Happy Birthday to Kay who celebrated a “Big” one earlier this month,
From all the parents and especially all the girls and boys in Playgroup.
Well wasn’t Punchestown really great. All the squabbling about the start times were forgotten when racing kicked off on the Tuesday. We were royally entertained for the Breener’s race. We had a great mix of people, friends family and others hangers on like me. “Ruby Tuesday” started a brilliant week for Walsh/Nicholls/Mullins. Big Zeb gave him a bit of a land though! My nephew Leonard was working for the Irish Kidney Association all the week, Leonard, who is a walking advertisement for the Transplant process, and myself we slagging Lenka Bolger and her little chap Ryan on Wednesday. Lenka, who would know more about greyhounds as she is married to trainer Ray Bolger was posing and managed to make the front page of the Indo on Thursday, pity about the two codgers in the background. Wednesday was my best day betting wise but money from bookies being and interest free loan it was given back on Thursday. Ruby was consistent with winners all the way through the week. Colette came with me on Friday to what must now be the biggest outdoor deb’s party in the world. It has become a great tradition of race week and long may it continue. Seav=n Mulryan got some compensation for Fairyhouse when his Ambobo won well at 11/1. Mr. Mulryan also had an interesting winner at Chantilly earlier in the month with Feels All Right. Fair play to Naas man Niall Cronin for having the liathrodi to manouvere Paddy’s Star into fourth to cap a great week
Speaking of liathrodi Mary Darker was out “knocking on doors” for the Republican Party this week, Fair play, better than just posting the leaflet and running away. The following night Mark Wall canvassed. He is more folliclely challenged than I am. BIlly did call but we missed him. Good men all. Who would be a politician?
Next door neighbor, Noelle Murphy had big celebrations this week wheh handsome husband Henry turned 40. Well done big fella.
“Bill on the hill” will be missed. He was a great man for “hopping the ball2 especially in the Bugle. Deepest sympathy to Myles Maureen & Harry.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Matt’s Memories
Church Gate Collectors
I got the Vigil Mass in Ballymore Eustace on March 28. Collecting outside the main Church gates were my handball friends Margaret Dowling and Mary Campbell who were collecting for Enable Ireland. This reminded me of my Churchtown neighbour, Brid Franklin, who also collects for Enable Ireland.
The following day Mary Deegan (Chapel Street) took over from Mary Campbell as a collector while Margaret Dowling was again on duty – this time at the Upper Church Gate. In days gone by, Mary kindly loaned me photos of the late Monsignor Browne.
Minister for the Eucharist
Back in 2007, Noel Fox was beside me at the Senior Citizens Party. Due to the ’flu, he did not make the party in 2008. Nowadays, Noel is one of our Ministers for the Eucharist and helps with Church collections.
Anniversaries
One of the first that I met at the Vigil Mass was Jim Boland from Churchtown. Jim was in Ballymore Eustace for the Anniversary Mass of his late father, Maurice Boland, who died in 1998. His brother, Joe, read the Epistles while I saw his mother, brother Danny and other family members also in attendance.
Jason King’s first anniversary occurred on March 27 – I saw Jason’s mother Kathleen in attendance, very tough year for them all. Talking to Mary Horan after the Mass I gather Des who was also prayed for as he died some 20 years ago. Des’s late parents, Michael and Margaret, were also remembered.
Large Attendance
People I noticed at the Mass included Mrs May Griffin, her son Patrick and daughter-in-law. Vincent and Oonagh Kavanagh, Mr and Mrs Paddy Nowlan and Dora O’Brien were also there.
Welcome to our World
Fr Jimmy Kelly I gather is to be with us for the next six months. He is a member of the Servite Order and once upon a time he was a bus driver including driving the 65 Bus. On April 4, he said the Vigil Palm Sunday Mass in Ballymore Eustace.
Quinn’s Field
In my growing up years, Quinn’s Field was the place to be. It featured all the Gaelic Football games and sports – in truth it featured all that was best in Ballymore Eustace. Back then, the Quinn family consisted of Mrs Bridget Quinn, her sons Micheal, Pat and Tom and daughter Bridget. Sadly, Bridget Senior and Junior and Michael are now deceased. According to the late Judy Lawler, Bridget Senior was a living saint!
Ann Daly
Met Ann Daly (nee Murphy) and discovered she was part of the local choir. This was news for me. In times past, Ann was a good badminton player, is a mother of three, a good golfer and plays the accordion!
Maria
Coming out of Mass I got talking to Maria Wolfe. I gather from Maria that Nancy Graham is keeping well. Nancy is in Kiltipper Nursing Home. In times past, I was supposed to visit Nancy but events conspired against that!
Out and About
I called into Rita O’Rourke’s house a couple of times of late. The second time around I met and got talking to her son Kevin. On the way in I also met and got chatting to Anthony Harney.
I dropped into Janet Deegan’s to do some shopping. While there I met Jimmy McLoughlin who mentioned seeing the Leinster Leader photo of my brother Billy and Mick McGrath at the Curragh Races.
Tutsy
I met Kathleen (Tutsy) Holloway (nee Marshall) for the first time in a long time. Previously, I used to see Tutsy regularly. Happily, Tutsy is keeping well. I was shocked to learn that her brother Michael’s eldest daughter died. Michael used to live at Assumpta Terrace but now lives in England and has done so for a long time now.
The 65 Bus Again
If I was getting the 65 Bus heretofore I got it in Templeogue which is a fifty minute walk from where I am in Churchtown. This time around I got a 14 Bus to Rathgar Road and got the 65 Bus there. In earlier times the 65 Bus used to come via Harold’s Cross but now comes via Rathmines. Having got the 65 Bus, the trip to Ballymore Eustace was uneventful apart from the fact that the original bus broke down at Cheeverstown and was replaced. (That’s consistent with the old days so – Rose!).
Ireland’s Grand Slam Team
My friend, Michael Mullally, tells me two of the Irish Rugby “Grand Slam” team Geordan Murphy and Jamie Heaslip both previously played with Newbridge College. I guess I should have known this myself but I did not.
John
Spotting me, John Murphy stopped outside my house to chat. It was great chatting to John who is one of my racing buddies. I gather John does not go racing as much as he did. On April 5, he will be going to a Mass in Hollywood for his late brother Michael,
Galway’s Three-in-a-Row
The first of Galway’s successes occurred in 1964 rather than 1963 as I said in the last Bugle. Dublin won the 1963 All-Ireland title.
Eamonn & Ollie
I understand Eamonn Deegan has recently retired from the Handball Committee and his brother Ollie has taken over his role. Ollie I believe now lives at Bishopsland.
Deaths
Maureen Dorney (nee O'Brien) of Newtown, Cobh and formerly of Garryvorougha, Kilbehenny died on April 8, 2009 R.I.P. Maureen was the mother of my former work colleague, Carmel Rogan. Occasionally, I used to meet Maureen when I visited my sister Margaret in Cobh.
© Matt Purcell (April 26, 2009)
Church Gate Collectors
I got the Vigil Mass in Ballymore Eustace on March 28. Collecting outside the main Church gates were my handball friends Margaret Dowling and Mary Campbell who were collecting for Enable Ireland. This reminded me of my Churchtown neighbour, Brid Franklin, who also collects for Enable Ireland.
The following day Mary Deegan (Chapel Street) took over from Mary Campbell as a collector while Margaret Dowling was again on duty – this time at the Upper Church Gate. In days gone by, Mary kindly loaned me photos of the late Monsignor Browne.
Minister for the Eucharist
Back in 2007, Noel Fox was beside me at the Senior Citizens Party. Due to the ’flu, he did not make the party in 2008. Nowadays, Noel is one of our Ministers for the Eucharist and helps with Church collections.
Anniversaries
One of the first that I met at the Vigil Mass was Jim Boland from Churchtown. Jim was in Ballymore Eustace for the Anniversary Mass of his late father, Maurice Boland, who died in 1998. His brother, Joe, read the Epistles while I saw his mother, brother Danny and other family members also in attendance.
Jason King’s first anniversary occurred on March 27 – I saw Jason’s mother Kathleen in attendance, very tough year for them all. Talking to Mary Horan after the Mass I gather Des who was also prayed for as he died some 20 years ago. Des’s late parents, Michael and Margaret, were also remembered.
Large Attendance
People I noticed at the Mass included Mrs May Griffin, her son Patrick and daughter-in-law. Vincent and Oonagh Kavanagh, Mr and Mrs Paddy Nowlan and Dora O’Brien were also there.
Welcome to our World
Fr Jimmy Kelly I gather is to be with us for the next six months. He is a member of the Servite Order and once upon a time he was a bus driver including driving the 65 Bus. On April 4, he said the Vigil Palm Sunday Mass in Ballymore Eustace.
Quinn’s Field
In my growing up years, Quinn’s Field was the place to be. It featured all the Gaelic Football games and sports – in truth it featured all that was best in Ballymore Eustace. Back then, the Quinn family consisted of Mrs Bridget Quinn, her sons Micheal, Pat and Tom and daughter Bridget. Sadly, Bridget Senior and Junior and Michael are now deceased. According to the late Judy Lawler, Bridget Senior was a living saint!
Ann Daly
Met Ann Daly (nee Murphy) and discovered she was part of the local choir. This was news for me. In times past, Ann was a good badminton player, is a mother of three, a good golfer and plays the accordion!
Maria
Coming out of Mass I got talking to Maria Wolfe. I gather from Maria that Nancy Graham is keeping well. Nancy is in Kiltipper Nursing Home. In times past, I was supposed to visit Nancy but events conspired against that!
Out and About
I called into Rita O’Rourke’s house a couple of times of late. The second time around I met and got talking to her son Kevin. On the way in I also met and got chatting to Anthony Harney.
I dropped into Janet Deegan’s to do some shopping. While there I met Jimmy McLoughlin who mentioned seeing the Leinster Leader photo of my brother Billy and Mick McGrath at the Curragh Races.
Tutsy
I met Kathleen (Tutsy) Holloway (nee Marshall) for the first time in a long time. Previously, I used to see Tutsy regularly. Happily, Tutsy is keeping well. I was shocked to learn that her brother Michael’s eldest daughter died. Michael used to live at Assumpta Terrace but now lives in England and has done so for a long time now.
The 65 Bus Again
If I was getting the 65 Bus heretofore I got it in Templeogue which is a fifty minute walk from where I am in Churchtown. This time around I got a 14 Bus to Rathgar Road and got the 65 Bus there. In earlier times the 65 Bus used to come via Harold’s Cross but now comes via Rathmines. Having got the 65 Bus, the trip to Ballymore Eustace was uneventful apart from the fact that the original bus broke down at Cheeverstown and was replaced. (That’s consistent with the old days so – Rose!).
Ireland’s Grand Slam Team
My friend, Michael Mullally, tells me two of the Irish Rugby “Grand Slam” team Geordan Murphy and Jamie Heaslip both previously played with Newbridge College. I guess I should have known this myself but I did not.
John
Spotting me, John Murphy stopped outside my house to chat. It was great chatting to John who is one of my racing buddies. I gather John does not go racing as much as he did. On April 5, he will be going to a Mass in Hollywood for his late brother Michael,
Galway’s Three-in-a-Row
The first of Galway’s successes occurred in 1964 rather than 1963 as I said in the last Bugle. Dublin won the 1963 All-Ireland title.
Eamonn & Ollie
I understand Eamonn Deegan has recently retired from the Handball Committee and his brother Ollie has taken over his role. Ollie I believe now lives at Bishopsland.
Deaths
Maureen Dorney (nee O'Brien) of Newtown, Cobh and formerly of Garryvorougha, Kilbehenny died on April 8, 2009 R.I.P. Maureen was the mother of my former work colleague, Carmel Rogan. Occasionally, I used to meet Maureen when I visited my sister Margaret in Cobh.
© Matt Purcell (April 26, 2009)
Punchestown with Matt
One of the first we met on Wednesday was Christy Dennison. It has been a hard year for Christy whose mother and aunt both died recently. Additionally, I gather Adam Jackson’s widow also died lately. Adam was Christy’s uncle.
Another that I met was John Holland. John is a son of Michael and Anne Holland and is a solicitor working in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny. He took the week off work to take in Punchestown. A few years ago, his mother joined him there.
Regular Punchestown visitor, Tony McLoughlin, was there and I was delighted to meet him again. In days gone by, Tony helped the McAuleys of Blessington who had several good horses in their time.
I met race goers, Joe Curran and Pat O’Toole, for the first time in a long while. On the Thursday, I met Joe’s wife Anne. This time last year, Joe and Anne were visiting their Kavanagh family in Perth. Later on, I again met Christy Dennison and this time he took photos of Tony O’Connor (formerly Swordlestown), Tom Nugent and myself.
Box and Bill
Eamonn Deegan and his brother-in-law were in a box at the races. Fr Breen’s friend Bill McCormack was also at the races and I got talking to him briefly. Like myself, Bill is missing his old friend.
Although Ollie Deegan was there everyday, I met him for the first time on Thursday. It was Thursday too when I first met Jim Clarke who was chatting to Tom Magee, formerly of Bishophill and cousin of the late Myles Magee.
Dreams
In my travels I met Larry and Grainne Glancy. Grainne apparently had a dream relating to the late Fr. Breen. Because of Fr Breen’s interest in horses, Grainne checked the papers for likely horses to coincide with her dream and found two. Although outsiders, both won for her at nice prices.
More Meetings
Another I saw included Tom Nugent’s wife Claire who was busily trying to find winners. I also met and was talking to Margaret McDonald and her sister, Anne Tipper – both of whom attended everyday. Belatedly, I met Tom Sheehan who used to work with me at Dublin County Council.
The Conways
As usual, Monsignor Seamus Conway (formerly of Dowdenstown) and his brother Tommy were at the races. I believe Eddie and Mai Whelan were also there but I did not meet them.
The Brother
Thanks to my brother James, I got to Punchestown on Wednesday (April 29) and Thursday (April 30). Beforehand, my brother Billy’s wife Carmel provided us with dinner and we had tea there afterwards.
Winners
On the Wednesday, I backed 2 winners – Dunguib and J’y Vole- but that was not enough for me to break even. Thursday was a lovely day and I had 3 winners - Jessie’s Dream, Garde Champetre and Quel Esprit. Hopefully, I did not put Pat O’Toole off Quel Esprit as I backed it on account of what Pat told me. For my part, I had already backed another horse. With Quel Esprit winning I more or less got back my outlay.
© Matt Purcell (May 2, 2009).
Scarborough Fair
Parsley Sage Rosemary & Thyme
arsley takes its own sweet time to germinate which can take as long as up to six weeks. Always follow planting instructions on the seed packet. When your parsley plants are about a couple of inches tall, thin to 8 to 12 inches. Keep in mind that parsley needs space to grow. Parsley is a good companion to carrots, onions, tomatoes, asparagus and roses. It attracts beneficial insects and acts as repellent to damaging ones. Parsley over winters here; let a few plants go to bloom in its second year. Parsley’s flowers are also very beneficial for the same reason: attracting parasitic wasps and hoverflies. Choose curly leaf or flat.
age comes in different coloured flowers and even variegated leaves (some fine for kitchen use), although none are as hardy as the common sage. Sage will grow almost anywhere as long as it is in full sun for a good part of the day. The best soil is a well-dug medium one, with a handful or two of bonemeal worked in twice during the summer. What sage does not like is soil that is moist all the time - it is a native of Mediterranean areas.
osemary. The three fundamentals for
successfully growing rosemary are: Sun,
Good Drainage and Good Air Circulation.
Provide a sandy, well draining soil and 6-8
hours of full sunlight. Rosemary is not a
heavy feeder, but fertilizing in will get it
off to a good start for the season.
hyme pretty much grows itself. In fact, the more you fuss with it, the less hardy it will be. Thyme is most fragrant and flavourful when grown in dry, lean soil. Too much moisture will rot the plants. If trying to cover a large areas, space new plants about 6" apart, to form a cover.
Thyme will grow well indoors, if given a bright, sunny window. However, since it survives quite well outdoors all winter, you might want to consider giving it a sheltered location outside, where you can continue to harvest.
We would like to thank all our customers for the support of your local shops.
We will plant your hanging baskets for you. Please bring them in.
HAPPY DAYS CANOE CLUB OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
It was a glorious afternoon, conditions ideal for spectators like me to experience their first ‘go’ at canoeing. ‘Happy Days’, Ballymore’s first canoe club was established in January this year with 43 members and is fully registered with the Irish Canoe Union. Their recent launch drew a large crowd and proved the sport is suitable for all ages with Super Great Granmother Ethna Lewis paddling like she had petrol in her veins and competing against a couple of my twelve year olds! The club boasts a superb clubhouse with a fleet of 13 Canadian canoes and all safety equipment as required by the Irish Canoe Union’s strict code of safety practise.
What a wonderful way to experience our beautiful countryside and an ideal way for a family or group of friends/ work colleagues to pass an afternoon. We are spoilt with rivers and lakes in Ireland, indeed non more so than on our doorstep, here in County Kildare and Wicklow. Log onto to Happy Days website www.happy-days.org to make contact with club members…………. well worth checking out!
The Irish Canoe Union
The Irish Canoe Union is the National Governing Body in Ireland for the sport and recreation of canoeing; with approximately 3,000 members registered primarily to participate in competitive events, there are a further 7,000 members involved in non competitive canoeing activities around the country.
Interest in the latter has experienced considerable growth over the past few years with participation in proficiency training courses increasing by an average of 15% per annum. Canoeing is such a diverse sport/recreation with many involved in one or more of the seven competitive disciplines which are the Olympic Discipline of Canoe Slalom and Flat Water (Sprint) Racing, Marathon(Lond Distance) Racing; Freestyle; Surfing; Canoe Polo and Wild Water Racing.
The vast majority of canoeists are however, involved in non-competitive canoeing such as touring, kayaking and white water paddling – canoeists who seek to enjoy the remote but easily accessible waterways of Ireland whilst enjoying stunning views of our scenic countryside.
Recreational Touring
Recreational touring is characterised by single or multi-day journeys by canoe or kayak on lakes, canals and placid rivers. The kayak and the open canoe enables paddlers to access and experience many wonderful natural environments in an unobtrusive manner and may involve camping in remote areas.
Open Canoeing
The Canadian Canoe or ‘Open Canadian’ is immediately distinguishable from a kayak because it is paddled using a single bladed paddle. This canoe originated with the native tribes of North America and was traditionally made from a timber frame covered in one of a variety of barks usually birch.
Nowadays, most canoes are made from plastic, fibreglass or aluminium. The original designs which were used to travel across the large expansive lakes of Canada were open on top for transporting people and goods.
Canadian canoeing is particularly suited to exploring the inland waterways of our country. Ireland offers an attractive network of inland waterways for canoeing – providing endless possibilities for exploring, fishing and multi-day expeditions. What makes this form of canoeing so attractive is that it can be enjoyed by all the family, of all ages, shapes and sizes no matter what your level of fitness is.
Whilst some would prefer leisurely trips on slow moving rivers such as the Shannon or Barrow, others have begun to use Canadian canoes in Marathon Races. Due to innovations in materials and design, canoes are now seen more regularly on rivers with small rapids and fast moving water.
Canoeing and the Environment
Navigation by canoe causes no erosion, noise or pollution and leaves no trace of its passing. Canoeing is a clean physical activity enjoyed causing no damage and minimal disturbance to wildlife and landscapes – erosion, if any, is only evident around specific access points where canoeists enter or exit the water.
The natural environment and clean water are the essential elements sough by canoeists and therefore, very much in the canoeists’ own interest to conserve, maintain and protect the environment.
Canoeing can be a valuable first point of contact with the environment for many people. Not only does the sport provide healthy physical activity but also a very calming way to observe our beautiful, natural wildlife. One of the best ways to discover what canoeing has to offer is to join a local group or club yourself. Alternatively, undertake one of the Irish Canoe Union’s training courses – they are fun, safe and will help you master basic skills.
Check out your local canoe club, ‘Happy Days’ website for contact details: www.happydays.org Enjoy nature at its best without hindrance or harm to the environment……..Happy Days!
plants!
One of the first we met on Wednesday was Christy Dennison. It has been a hard year for Christy whose mother and aunt both died recently. Additionally, I gather Adam Jackson’s widow also died lately. Adam was Christy’s uncle.
Another that I met was John Holland. John is a son of Michael and Anne Holland and is a solicitor working in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny. He took the week off work to take in Punchestown. A few years ago, his mother joined him there.
Regular Punchestown visitor, Tony McLoughlin, was there and I was delighted to meet him again. In days gone by, Tony helped the McAuleys of Blessington who had several good horses in their time.
I met race goers, Joe Curran and Pat O’Toole, for the first time in a long while. On the Thursday, I met Joe’s wife Anne. This time last year, Joe and Anne were visiting their Kavanagh family in Perth. Later on, I again met Christy Dennison and this time he took photos of Tony O’Connor (formerly Swordlestown), Tom Nugent and myself.
Box and Bill
Eamonn Deegan and his brother-in-law were in a box at the races. Fr Breen’s friend Bill McCormack was also at the races and I got talking to him briefly. Like myself, Bill is missing his old friend.
Although Ollie Deegan was there everyday, I met him for the first time on Thursday. It was Thursday too when I first met Jim Clarke who was chatting to Tom Magee, formerly of Bishophill and cousin of the late Myles Magee.
Dreams
In my travels I met Larry and Grainne Glancy. Grainne apparently had a dream relating to the late Fr. Breen. Because of Fr Breen’s interest in horses, Grainne checked the papers for likely horses to coincide with her dream and found two. Although outsiders, both won for her at nice prices.
More Meetings
Another I saw included Tom Nugent’s wife Claire who was busily trying to find winners. I also met and was talking to Margaret McDonald and her sister, Anne Tipper – both of whom attended everyday. Belatedly, I met Tom Sheehan who used to work with me at Dublin County Council.
The Conways
As usual, Monsignor Seamus Conway (formerly of Dowdenstown) and his brother Tommy were at the races. I believe Eddie and Mai Whelan were also there but I did not meet them.
The Brother
Thanks to my brother James, I got to Punchestown on Wednesday (April 29) and Thursday (April 30). Beforehand, my brother Billy’s wife Carmel provided us with dinner and we had tea there afterwards.
Winners
On the Wednesday, I backed 2 winners – Dunguib and J’y Vole- but that was not enough for me to break even. Thursday was a lovely day and I had 3 winners - Jessie’s Dream, Garde Champetre and Quel Esprit. Hopefully, I did not put Pat O’Toole off Quel Esprit as I backed it on account of what Pat told me. For my part, I had already backed another horse. With Quel Esprit winning I more or less got back my outlay.
© Matt Purcell (May 2, 2009).
Scarborough Fair
Parsley Sage Rosemary & Thyme
arsley takes its own sweet time to germinate which can take as long as up to six weeks. Always follow planting instructions on the seed packet. When your parsley plants are about a couple of inches tall, thin to 8 to 12 inches. Keep in mind that parsley needs space to grow. Parsley is a good companion to carrots, onions, tomatoes, asparagus and roses. It attracts beneficial insects and acts as repellent to damaging ones. Parsley over winters here; let a few plants go to bloom in its second year. Parsley’s flowers are also very beneficial for the same reason: attracting parasitic wasps and hoverflies. Choose curly leaf or flat.
age comes in different coloured flowers and even variegated leaves (some fine for kitchen use), although none are as hardy as the common sage. Sage will grow almost anywhere as long as it is in full sun for a good part of the day. The best soil is a well-dug medium one, with a handful or two of bonemeal worked in twice during the summer. What sage does not like is soil that is moist all the time - it is a native of Mediterranean areas.
osemary. The three fundamentals for
successfully growing rosemary are: Sun,
Good Drainage and Good Air Circulation.
Provide a sandy, well draining soil and 6-8
hours of full sunlight. Rosemary is not a
heavy feeder, but fertilizing in will get it
off to a good start for the season.
hyme pretty much grows itself. In fact, the more you fuss with it, the less hardy it will be. Thyme is most fragrant and flavourful when grown in dry, lean soil. Too much moisture will rot the plants. If trying to cover a large areas, space new plants about 6" apart, to form a cover.
Thyme will grow well indoors, if given a bright, sunny window. However, since it survives quite well outdoors all winter, you might want to consider giving it a sheltered location outside, where you can continue to harvest.
We would like to thank all our customers for the support of your local shops.
We will plant your hanging baskets for you. Please bring them in.
HAPPY DAYS CANOE CLUB OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
It was a glorious afternoon, conditions ideal for spectators like me to experience their first ‘go’ at canoeing. ‘Happy Days’, Ballymore’s first canoe club was established in January this year with 43 members and is fully registered with the Irish Canoe Union. Their recent launch drew a large crowd and proved the sport is suitable for all ages with Super Great Granmother Ethna Lewis paddling like she had petrol in her veins and competing against a couple of my twelve year olds! The club boasts a superb clubhouse with a fleet of 13 Canadian canoes and all safety equipment as required by the Irish Canoe Union’s strict code of safety practise.
What a wonderful way to experience our beautiful countryside and an ideal way for a family or group of friends/ work colleagues to pass an afternoon. We are spoilt with rivers and lakes in Ireland, indeed non more so than on our doorstep, here in County Kildare and Wicklow. Log onto to Happy Days website www.happy-days.org to make contact with club members…………. well worth checking out!
The Irish Canoe Union
The Irish Canoe Union is the National Governing Body in Ireland for the sport and recreation of canoeing; with approximately 3,000 members registered primarily to participate in competitive events, there are a further 7,000 members involved in non competitive canoeing activities around the country.
Interest in the latter has experienced considerable growth over the past few years with participation in proficiency training courses increasing by an average of 15% per annum. Canoeing is such a diverse sport/recreation with many involved in one or more of the seven competitive disciplines which are the Olympic Discipline of Canoe Slalom and Flat Water (Sprint) Racing, Marathon(Lond Distance) Racing; Freestyle; Surfing; Canoe Polo and Wild Water Racing.
The vast majority of canoeists are however, involved in non-competitive canoeing such as touring, kayaking and white water paddling – canoeists who seek to enjoy the remote but easily accessible waterways of Ireland whilst enjoying stunning views of our scenic countryside.
Recreational Touring
Recreational touring is characterised by single or multi-day journeys by canoe or kayak on lakes, canals and placid rivers. The kayak and the open canoe enables paddlers to access and experience many wonderful natural environments in an unobtrusive manner and may involve camping in remote areas.
Open Canoeing
The Canadian Canoe or ‘Open Canadian’ is immediately distinguishable from a kayak because it is paddled using a single bladed paddle. This canoe originated with the native tribes of North America and was traditionally made from a timber frame covered in one of a variety of barks usually birch.
Nowadays, most canoes are made from plastic, fibreglass or aluminium. The original designs which were used to travel across the large expansive lakes of Canada were open on top for transporting people and goods.
Canadian canoeing is particularly suited to exploring the inland waterways of our country. Ireland offers an attractive network of inland waterways for canoeing – providing endless possibilities for exploring, fishing and multi-day expeditions. What makes this form of canoeing so attractive is that it can be enjoyed by all the family, of all ages, shapes and sizes no matter what your level of fitness is.
Whilst some would prefer leisurely trips on slow moving rivers such as the Shannon or Barrow, others have begun to use Canadian canoes in Marathon Races. Due to innovations in materials and design, canoes are now seen more regularly on rivers with small rapids and fast moving water.
Canoeing and the Environment
Navigation by canoe causes no erosion, noise or pollution and leaves no trace of its passing. Canoeing is a clean physical activity enjoyed causing no damage and minimal disturbance to wildlife and landscapes – erosion, if any, is only evident around specific access points where canoeists enter or exit the water.
The natural environment and clean water are the essential elements sough by canoeists and therefore, very much in the canoeists’ own interest to conserve, maintain and protect the environment.
Canoeing can be a valuable first point of contact with the environment for many people. Not only does the sport provide healthy physical activity but also a very calming way to observe our beautiful, natural wildlife. One of the best ways to discover what canoeing has to offer is to join a local group or club yourself. Alternatively, undertake one of the Irish Canoe Union’s training courses – they are fun, safe and will help you master basic skills.
Check out your local canoe club, ‘Happy Days’ website for contact details: www.happydays.org Enjoy nature at its best without hindrance or harm to the environment……..Happy Days!
plants!
The much coveted memorial cup for Maureen Doyle was strongly contested by golfers from both Ballymore and Poulaphuca Golf Societies. This outing was well supported by Maureen’s many friends and is now firmly established as an annual event, in her memory.
The overall, and very popular winner, was Jay Curley. Jay plays off a handicap of 5 and came in with a score of 39 points. Also on 39 points, but losing on the back nine, were Adrian Burke and Shea McGrath. The cup was presented by Maureen’s brother Tim on behalf of the Doyle family. The “Mystery Team Competition” winners were Jay Curley, Adrian Burke, Michael Horan and Roy Clarke, with and impressive cumulative score of 145 points.
It was a most enjoyable days golf, which followed through ‘til late that night. Thanks to all involved in organising this outing; Marky Doyle and family, Michael Horan, Lilly Hickey, Ann Daly and James McCarron. For the food and entertainment, thanks to; Ciaran Langan, Pat Murphy, Ann Daly, John O’Toole and friends!
Next Outing: Tulfarris 16th May
Weekend Away Reminder!:
19th June, - Dundrum House, Tipperary
Ita McCarron is keen to get deposits in!
Punchestown with Matt
One of the first we met on Wednesday was Christy Dennison. It has been a hard year for Christy whose mother and aunt both died recently. Additionally, I gather Adam Jackson’s widow also died lately. Adam was Christy’s uncle.
Another that I met was John Holland. John is a son of Michael and Anne Holland and is a solicitor working in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny. He took the week off work to take in Punchestown. A few years ago, his mother joined him there.
Regular Punchestown visitor, Tony McLoughlin, was there and I was delighted to meet him again. In days gone by, Tony helped the McAuleys of Blessington who had several good horses in their time.
I met race goers, Joe Curran and Pat O’Toole, for the first time in a long while. On the Thursday, I met Joe’s wife Anne. This time last year, Joe and Anne were visiting their Kavanagh family in Perth. Later on, I again met Christy Dennison and this time he took photos of Tony O’Connor (formerly Swordlestown), Tom Nugent and myself.
Box and Bill
Eamonn Deegan and his brother-in-law were in a box at the races. Fr Breen’s friend Bill McCormack was also at the races and I got talking to him briefly. Like myself, Bill is missing his old friend.
Although Ollie Deegan was there everyday, I met him for the first time on Thursday. It was Thursday too when I first met Jim Clarke who was chatting to Tom Magee, formerly of Bishophill and cousin of the late Myles Magee.
Dreams
In my travels I met Larry and Grainne Glancy. Grainne apparently had a dream relating to the late Fr. Breen. Because of Fr Breen’s interest in horses, Grainne checked the papers for likely horses to coincide with her dream and found two. Although outsiders, both won for her at nice prices.
More Meetings
Another I saw included Tom Nugent’s wife Claire who was busily trying to find winners. I also met and was talking to Margaret McDonald and her sister, Anne Tipper – both of whom attended everyday. Belatedly, I met Tom Sheehan who used to work with me at Dublin County Council.
The Conways
As usual, Monsignor Seamus Conway (formerly of Dowdenstown) and his brother Tommy were at the races. I believe Eddie and Mai Whelan were also there but I did not meet them.
The Brother
Thanks to my brother James, I got to Punchestown on Wednesday (April 29) and Thursday (April 30). Beforehand, my brother Billy’s wife Carmel provided us with dinner and we had tea there afterwards.
Winners
On the Wednesday, I backed 2 winners – Dunguib and J’y Vole- but that was not enough for me to break even. Thursday was a lovely day and I had 3 winners - Jessie’s Dream, Garde Champetre and Quel Esprit. Hopefully, I did not put Pat O’Toole off Quel Esprit as I backed it on account of what Pat told me. For my part, I had already backed another horse. With Quel Esprit winning I more or less got back my outlay.
© Matt Purcell (May 2, 2009).
The overall, and very popular winner, was Jay Curley. Jay plays off a handicap of 5 and came in with a score of 39 points. Also on 39 points, but losing on the back nine, were Adrian Burke and Shea McGrath. The cup was presented by Maureen’s brother Tim on behalf of the Doyle family. The “Mystery Team Competition” winners were Jay Curley, Adrian Burke, Michael Horan and Roy Clarke, with and impressive cumulative score of 145 points.
It was a most enjoyable days golf, which followed through ‘til late that night. Thanks to all involved in organising this outing; Marky Doyle and family, Michael Horan, Lilly Hickey, Ann Daly and James McCarron. For the food and entertainment, thanks to; Ciaran Langan, Pat Murphy, Ann Daly, John O’Toole and friends!
Next Outing: Tulfarris 16th May
Weekend Away Reminder!:
19th June, - Dundrum House, Tipperary
Ita McCarron is keen to get deposits in!
Punchestown with Matt
One of the first we met on Wednesday was Christy Dennison. It has been a hard year for Christy whose mother and aunt both died recently. Additionally, I gather Adam Jackson’s widow also died lately. Adam was Christy’s uncle.
Another that I met was John Holland. John is a son of Michael and Anne Holland and is a solicitor working in Castlecomer, County Kilkenny. He took the week off work to take in Punchestown. A few years ago, his mother joined him there.
Regular Punchestown visitor, Tony McLoughlin, was there and I was delighted to meet him again. In days gone by, Tony helped the McAuleys of Blessington who had several good horses in their time.
I met race goers, Joe Curran and Pat O’Toole, for the first time in a long while. On the Thursday, I met Joe’s wife Anne. This time last year, Joe and Anne were visiting their Kavanagh family in Perth. Later on, I again met Christy Dennison and this time he took photos of Tony O’Connor (formerly Swordlestown), Tom Nugent and myself.
Box and Bill
Eamonn Deegan and his brother-in-law were in a box at the races. Fr Breen’s friend Bill McCormack was also at the races and I got talking to him briefly. Like myself, Bill is missing his old friend.
Although Ollie Deegan was there everyday, I met him for the first time on Thursday. It was Thursday too when I first met Jim Clarke who was chatting to Tom Magee, formerly of Bishophill and cousin of the late Myles Magee.
Dreams
In my travels I met Larry and Grainne Glancy. Grainne apparently had a dream relating to the late Fr. Breen. Because of Fr Breen’s interest in horses, Grainne checked the papers for likely horses to coincide with her dream and found two. Although outsiders, both won for her at nice prices.
More Meetings
Another I saw included Tom Nugent’s wife Claire who was busily trying to find winners. I also met and was talking to Margaret McDonald and her sister, Anne Tipper – both of whom attended everyday. Belatedly, I met Tom Sheehan who used to work with me at Dublin County Council.
The Conways
As usual, Monsignor Seamus Conway (formerly of Dowdenstown) and his brother Tommy were at the races. I believe Eddie and Mai Whelan were also there but I did not meet them.
The Brother
Thanks to my brother James, I got to Punchestown on Wednesday (April 29) and Thursday (April 30). Beforehand, my brother Billy’s wife Carmel provided us with dinner and we had tea there afterwards.
Winners
On the Wednesday, I backed 2 winners – Dunguib and J’y Vole- but that was not enough for me to break even. Thursday was a lovely day and I had 3 winners - Jessie’s Dream, Garde Champetre and Quel Esprit. Hopefully, I did not put Pat O’Toole off Quel Esprit as I backed it on account of what Pat told me. For my part, I had already backed another horse. With Quel Esprit winning I more or less got back my outlay.
© Matt Purcell (May 2, 2009).
Ballymore Ladies GFC
Division 4 League
Match v Milltown
Milltown hosted Ballymore in the league on Tuesday 21st April. It was one of the best performances from a Ballymore Ladies team with an almost flawless 2nd half. The girls started strongly and Milltown were quick to make a change in the middle of the field to try and stop Ballymore’s passing. The change kept Milltown in the game and the score was Ballymore 1-5 Milltown 0-4 at half-time.
A good team-talk saw Ballymore step it up a gear in the 2nd half. Ballymore’s passing was excellent with the movement of the game involving Fran Burke passing the ball in midfield then taking it back and scoring a goal. Milltown did have some of the ball but the backs made it difficult and held them to 2 points in the 2nd half. Suzanne Byrne made her debut with 10 minutes to go and was unlucky not score. I asked a number of people watching the game who were the best players for Ballymore and the entire team were named for different reasons so well done to all the girls!
Milltown 0-6 Ballymore 4-9
Aisling Hubbard 2-5
Dawn Murray 1-1
Fran Burke 1-0
Sheena Hubbard 0-2
Stephanie Harney 0-1
Match v Maynooth
Ballymore travelled to Maynooth on Tuesday 28th April. After a number of minor mishaps the match got underway. Ballymore had a good first half and were 1 point up at half time. Maynooth made some changes at half time and got some good scores early in the second half. Ballymore soon got back into the game but Maynooth were victorious on the night. Michelle Hubbard had a good game for Ballymore making some good runs and passes into the forwards. Congratulations to Tracey on scoring her first point for Ballymore and on forgetting the jerseys! That’s a good way of getting out of washing them the next time!!
Scorers
Aisling Hubbard 5 points
Stephanie Harney 1 point
Dawn Murray 2 points
Fran Burke 1 point
Tracey Clohessy 1 point
Match v Athy
Ballymore were due to play Athy on Saturday 25th of April. The match was called off due to bad weather and a waterlogged pitch. The match was re-scheduled and then Athy gave Ballymore a walkover.
League Result
The County Board made some alterations to the league this year and the top 2 teams went through to a straight final. Ballymore finished fourth in the league this year. Balyna II and Moorefield played in the final on Saturday 2nd May in Athgarvan. Balyna II won the game and should be moving up to Division 3 next year.
Training
Training continues every Monday and Wednesday at 7.30. Anyone interested in joining the team should call up to any of the training sessions.
Bungee Jump
Saturday April 25th saw a number of brave but nervous volunteers undertake a bungee jump in aid of Feile Peil na nOg. Sarah Malone, Dawn Murray, Tadhg Grace, Eoin Barrett and Paul Murphy travelled the long journey to a carpark in Leixlip in the rain. The sun came out in time for their jump and all 5 did themselves proud. Quite a number of supporters travelled to Leixlip, some more nervous than the bungee jumpers!!!
Paul Murphy bravely jumped first and kindly proceeded to tell everyone it was fine and they would enjoy it. Eoin Barrett was next with his family arriving just in time to see his jump. Tadhg jumped next and made it look easy despite having created some nerves by watching bungee jumps that went wrong on U tube!! Sarah enjoyed her jump so much she was ready to go straight back up and try it again. Dawn patiently waited until last which was probably just as well as she managed to bounce and spin in so many directions it may have scared anyone who had to jump after her. Despite that she landed smiling.
It was noticed that the 3 lads had a lot more to say for themselves as they were falling than the 2 girls!! Thanks and well done to all those who jumped and who sponsored them. They made a large contribution towards the Juveniles running Feile Peil na nOg.
Last Man Standing Competition
There were still 33 entrants heading into the Easter weekend but with most of the big teams used at the start of the competition, the numbers started to deplete rapidly. By the May Bank Holiday the competition was down to the final 8 with Sharon O’Donoghue, Fran Burke and Teresa Gorman’s remaining entrants getting knocked out that weekend.
With 3 weeks remaining in the competition Simon Murphy had 2 entrants, Mick Horan and Tracey Clohessy 1 each. The weekend of May 9th saw the last of the locals lose out with Johnny Murphy and Paul Byrne’s selections failing to win.
Only 2 weeks to go in the competition and only 2 left competing for the €500 prize money. Best of luck to Fergus Aspell and Darren Whelan.
Deirdre & Sharon
Ballymore Ladies GFC PROs
Ballymore Eustace Juvenile Badminton Club
Supervisors
Despite A 400% increase in members attending the club each week since 2005, we still rely on the same 6 supervisors. In order to continue the success of our club and to advance it forward, “we ask Please for an hour of your time”. It’s always fun and rewarding, the hour passes quickly and no experience of Badminton is required.
*Thursday - Bandhall – 3pm to 8.30pm
Barretstown Bandana
To date the under 13’s have raised €1295.00. Enquiries are currently been made about street sales in local towns, Blessington, Naas & Newbridge. All here at the club value and enjoy our heath and fun each week, we often “take it for granted” but we do recognize the difficulties for some and are very willing and proud to raise funds for such a wonderful facility. All sales and donations go direct to Barretstown.
Thank you all for you support
New club hoodies
Due to arrive on Thursday 21st May, there is great excitement at the club. This year change to annual membership has proved a great success and all 81 members and supervisors will wear them proudly!
Annual Club Tournament 2009
This tournament will be our busiest to date and we hope “our most exciting!”
81 members will compete in 7 groups on 3 courts form 10am to 4pm at Ryston Newbridge.
This will be our 3rd annual visit to Ryston and like the previous 2 tournaments will have a mix of fun games, matches, champions and a new game! Full details of all players, groups and times are on display in the Bandhall.
At 2.30 two courts will be dedicated to group 7. Eight players from our Under 18 team have been selected to play against Ryston Newbridge. All families, relatives, friends, and locals are invited to visit at anytime and enjoy the fun and games. Tea and coffee, and snacks, are complimentary of the club all day from 10am. Please come and support us on Sunday 24th May.
From Kilcullen Turn right at T junction traffic lights and immediately right again.
From Naas Turn left after bridge and approx 150 yds turn left again.
Awards
Group 1, 2, and 4 @ 12pm on Sunday 24th at Ryston
Group 3 (Holy Communion on 23/5/09) @ 4 and 5pm Thursday 28th at Bandhall.
Group 5, 6, and 7 @ 4pm on Sunday 24th at Ryston.
Player of the year
2007 Laura Cullen 2008 Joanna Burk Hayes 2009 *?????*
This award will be given to our new player of the year at the time of their own awards. I.e. - maybe 12 or 4 on Sunday or 4 or 5 on Thursday……! Who knows?! What we do know is that they have all given it their very best. Great attendance, improvement, co- operation and general enjoyment of the game put all members in with a big say it’s been noted! And one member has been chosen.
*Best of luck to all 81 members*
Adult Badminton
Thursdays from 8.30pm all welcome any week
Division 4 League
Match v Milltown
Milltown hosted Ballymore in the league on Tuesday 21st April. It was one of the best performances from a Ballymore Ladies team with an almost flawless 2nd half. The girls started strongly and Milltown were quick to make a change in the middle of the field to try and stop Ballymore’s passing. The change kept Milltown in the game and the score was Ballymore 1-5 Milltown 0-4 at half-time.
A good team-talk saw Ballymore step it up a gear in the 2nd half. Ballymore’s passing was excellent with the movement of the game involving Fran Burke passing the ball in midfield then taking it back and scoring a goal. Milltown did have some of the ball but the backs made it difficult and held them to 2 points in the 2nd half. Suzanne Byrne made her debut with 10 minutes to go and was unlucky not score. I asked a number of people watching the game who were the best players for Ballymore and the entire team were named for different reasons so well done to all the girls!
Milltown 0-6 Ballymore 4-9
Aisling Hubbard 2-5
Dawn Murray 1-1
Fran Burke 1-0
Sheena Hubbard 0-2
Stephanie Harney 0-1
Match v Maynooth
Ballymore travelled to Maynooth on Tuesday 28th April. After a number of minor mishaps the match got underway. Ballymore had a good first half and were 1 point up at half time. Maynooth made some changes at half time and got some good scores early in the second half. Ballymore soon got back into the game but Maynooth were victorious on the night. Michelle Hubbard had a good game for Ballymore making some good runs and passes into the forwards. Congratulations to Tracey on scoring her first point for Ballymore and on forgetting the jerseys! That’s a good way of getting out of washing them the next time!!
Scorers
Aisling Hubbard 5 points
Stephanie Harney 1 point
Dawn Murray 2 points
Fran Burke 1 point
Tracey Clohessy 1 point
Match v Athy
Ballymore were due to play Athy on Saturday 25th of April. The match was called off due to bad weather and a waterlogged pitch. The match was re-scheduled and then Athy gave Ballymore a walkover.
League Result
The County Board made some alterations to the league this year and the top 2 teams went through to a straight final. Ballymore finished fourth in the league this year. Balyna II and Moorefield played in the final on Saturday 2nd May in Athgarvan. Balyna II won the game and should be moving up to Division 3 next year.
Training
Training continues every Monday and Wednesday at 7.30. Anyone interested in joining the team should call up to any of the training sessions.
Bungee Jump
Saturday April 25th saw a number of brave but nervous volunteers undertake a bungee jump in aid of Feile Peil na nOg. Sarah Malone, Dawn Murray, Tadhg Grace, Eoin Barrett and Paul Murphy travelled the long journey to a carpark in Leixlip in the rain. The sun came out in time for their jump and all 5 did themselves proud. Quite a number of supporters travelled to Leixlip, some more nervous than the bungee jumpers!!!
Paul Murphy bravely jumped first and kindly proceeded to tell everyone it was fine and they would enjoy it. Eoin Barrett was next with his family arriving just in time to see his jump. Tadhg jumped next and made it look easy despite having created some nerves by watching bungee jumps that went wrong on U tube!! Sarah enjoyed her jump so much she was ready to go straight back up and try it again. Dawn patiently waited until last which was probably just as well as she managed to bounce and spin in so many directions it may have scared anyone who had to jump after her. Despite that she landed smiling.
It was noticed that the 3 lads had a lot more to say for themselves as they were falling than the 2 girls!! Thanks and well done to all those who jumped and who sponsored them. They made a large contribution towards the Juveniles running Feile Peil na nOg.
Last Man Standing Competition
There were still 33 entrants heading into the Easter weekend but with most of the big teams used at the start of the competition, the numbers started to deplete rapidly. By the May Bank Holiday the competition was down to the final 8 with Sharon O’Donoghue, Fran Burke and Teresa Gorman’s remaining entrants getting knocked out that weekend.
With 3 weeks remaining in the competition Simon Murphy had 2 entrants, Mick Horan and Tracey Clohessy 1 each. The weekend of May 9th saw the last of the locals lose out with Johnny Murphy and Paul Byrne’s selections failing to win.
Only 2 weeks to go in the competition and only 2 left competing for the €500 prize money. Best of luck to Fergus Aspell and Darren Whelan.
Deirdre & Sharon
Ballymore Ladies GFC PROs
Ballymore Eustace Juvenile Badminton Club
Supervisors
Despite A 400% increase in members attending the club each week since 2005, we still rely on the same 6 supervisors. In order to continue the success of our club and to advance it forward, “we ask Please for an hour of your time”. It’s always fun and rewarding, the hour passes quickly and no experience of Badminton is required.
*Thursday - Bandhall – 3pm to 8.30pm
Barretstown Bandana
To date the under 13’s have raised €1295.00. Enquiries are currently been made about street sales in local towns, Blessington, Naas & Newbridge. All here at the club value and enjoy our heath and fun each week, we often “take it for granted” but we do recognize the difficulties for some and are very willing and proud to raise funds for such a wonderful facility. All sales and donations go direct to Barretstown.
Thank you all for you support
New club hoodies
Due to arrive on Thursday 21st May, there is great excitement at the club. This year change to annual membership has proved a great success and all 81 members and supervisors will wear them proudly!
Annual Club Tournament 2009
This tournament will be our busiest to date and we hope “our most exciting!”
81 members will compete in 7 groups on 3 courts form 10am to 4pm at Ryston Newbridge.
This will be our 3rd annual visit to Ryston and like the previous 2 tournaments will have a mix of fun games, matches, champions and a new game! Full details of all players, groups and times are on display in the Bandhall.
At 2.30 two courts will be dedicated to group 7. Eight players from our Under 18 team have been selected to play against Ryston Newbridge. All families, relatives, friends, and locals are invited to visit at anytime and enjoy the fun and games. Tea and coffee, and snacks, are complimentary of the club all day from 10am. Please come and support us on Sunday 24th May.
From Kilcullen Turn right at T junction traffic lights and immediately right again.
From Naas Turn left after bridge and approx 150 yds turn left again.
Awards
Group 1, 2, and 4 @ 12pm on Sunday 24th at Ryston
Group 3 (Holy Communion on 23/5/09) @ 4 and 5pm Thursday 28th at Bandhall.
Group 5, 6, and 7 @ 4pm on Sunday 24th at Ryston.
Player of the year
2007 Laura Cullen 2008 Joanna Burk Hayes 2009 *?????*
This award will be given to our new player of the year at the time of their own awards. I.e. - maybe 12 or 4 on Sunday or 4 or 5 on Thursday……! Who knows?! What we do know is that they have all given it their very best. Great attendance, improvement, co- operation and general enjoyment of the game put all members in with a big say it’s been noted! And one member has been chosen.
*Best of luck to all 81 members*
Adult Badminton
Thursdays from 8.30pm all welcome any week
Senior GAA
125 GAA Celebrations
The Club would like to thank everyone who attended their celebratory night in The Thatch. Awards were presented to Club Presidents Jim Clarke and Eddie Hubbard who received special recognition for their contribution to Ballymore GAA during their lifetime. Also winners on the night were Club Person (Eoin Barrett), Senior Player (Tommie Archibald) and Young Player (Keith Fennell) of the year for 2008.
A special thanks to Christy Dennisson who did a great job taking photos and showing videos from u10 all the way up to Senior level over the past 30 years. Anyone interested in copies of any of these videos are to contact Christy. The music was in full flow too with “Arc” keeping us entertained all night with great traditional songs and tunes.
Hollywood GAA Club entertained us visitors for some challenge matches during the afternoon. Teams representing Ballymore & Hollywood at underage levels as well as the senior teams. Our thanks to all associated with Hollywood GAA for a great afternoon of sport and craic.
Marbella 2009
It looks like to Senior Club will be jetting off to Spain at the end of October to play in the “Marbella Tournament”. The Club played in the competition a few years ago and a great trip was had by all. Details will be in next months Bugle for members interested.
Summer Camp
The annual kid’s summer camp is taking place this year from the 6th-10th of July.
Féile 2009
Club members are currently cleaning up the grounds in preparation for the Féile 09 taking place in Ballymore. Ballymore will be entering two teams (check juvenile notes) and it runs on the second and third of July.
Training
Despite so many injuries the senior team is experiencing at the moment training is still going strong in preparation for the 1st round of the championship against Eadestown.
Senior League Division 2
Ballymore 1-09 Rheban 1-09
Ballymore had to settle for a share of the spoils for the second week running as they rued some wasteful shooting and poor passing, a last gasp free from county man James Kavanagh saving their blushes. Ballymore settled quickly but kicked five wides in as many minutes and when Rheban went down the other end and scored a goal through Tom Harris it looked like it was going to be one of those days for the home side. That proved to be the visitors only score from play in the game but their free takers proved deadly on the day and could have easily snatched victory for the visitors.
Rheban full forward C. Perse was proving a real handful in full forward with his support play and efforts from placed balls, the first for him in the eight minute to leave four between the sides. Ballymore finally got off the mark in the twelfth minute through a Gareth Clarke free but Rheban responded through a 45 from the boot of Alan Harris. Tommie Archibald kept the home team in contention with an angled point on fifteen minutes but indiscipline in the Ballymore back line resulted in another free converted by Perse. Mark McCarville then hit 1-01 within a minute of each other, the goal coming for the big full forward after being played in by Gareth Clarke and Tommie Archibald. Perse finished the scoring with a free for Rheban to leave the half-time score 1-04 to 1-03 in favour of the visitors.
Ballymore welcomed county star James Kavanagh into the side for the second half and he immediately came into his own pointing straight away, then setting up Tommie Archibald to put the home side ahead for the first time. A free from Kavanagh put two between the teams and it looked like the home team would push on but Rheban replied with two pointed frees, one a piece from C. Perse and Alan Harris to level the game. Tommie Archibald scored a great point with his back to goal fifteen minutes into the second half to leave the smallest of margins between the sides. Five frees in the last ten minutes, three for Rheban (Perse) and two for Ballymore (Kavanagh) ensured that neither team took home the two league points on offer instead settling for one league point each.
Best for the home side were Tommie Archibald, James Kavanagh and Colin Clarke while Rheban had solid performances in C. Perse, A Harris and M. Connor
Ballymore 0-4 Naas 3-18
Ballymore went into this game stretched for numbers with a mountain of injuries and absentees and were never able to match a rampant Naas outfit. Such was the extent of injuries the “gaffer” polished off his boots to stand on the edge of the square once more. Olly O’ Neill opened the scoring for the home side but from then on it one way traffic. Ballymore did work hard and never game up with the other points coming from Eoin Kavanagh and Mark McCarville.
Miltown 0-12 Ballymore 2-06
Milltown and Ballymore shared the points in round six of Division 2 in a game played in very windy conditions. Despite playing against the wind it was Milltown who struck first with points from Myles O’ Reilly and Ian Fitzgerald. Eoin Kavanagh and O’ Reilly exchanged frees before two more points from Kavanagh (1f) levelled up the sides once more. An Eoin O’ Sullivan point followed by a 45 from Eoghan O’ Toole restored the home sides two point lead. Steven Dwyer then hit two in a row for Ballymore to tie up the game with Ballymore’s William O’ Donoghue missing a penalty that was somehow brilliantly saved by the Milltown keeper. A fisted point for Alan Dignam left the half time score 0-6 to 0-5 in favour of the home side.
On the resumption two quick Milltown scores from O’ Toole and O’ Reilly put three between the sides but Mark McCarville levelled up the game with a well taken goal. Milltown then fired over three in a row but an Eoin Kavanagh point followed up by the same player burying the ball to the net gave the visitors the lead for the first time. However Milltown were not to be denied a share of the spoils and a side line from O’ Toole ensured neither team went home empty handed. Best for Ballymore were Eoin Kavangh, Keith Conway and Steven Dwyer.
Upcoming Fixtures
Senior League Division 2
Sat 23rd May Clane (away)
Sat 6th June Straffan (home)
Sun 14th June Raheens (home)
Sat 20th June Ballyteague (away)
Tues 23rd June Castledermot (away)
Sat 27th June Eadestown (home)
St. Oliver Plunkett’s
Hard luck to the minor team who lost to St. Coco’s in the league semi-final by two points.
Player Profile
This month it’s the turn of “Captain” Tadhg Grace to answer a few questions on Ballymore GAA.
Fav Position: Midfield
Best Match ever played in: Championship semi-final vs Johnstownbridge.
Best BME player ever: Jarleth Gilroy
Favourite Manager: Mick Murtagh
One player you would like on BME team: Kevin McNally!!
Fav Meal before a match: Pasta
Best player you ever marked: Killian Brennan
If you couldn’t play GAA you would play: Golf
Fav Film: Wedding Crashers
Best player on the women’s team: Lesley Tutty or Aisling Hubbard
If you could be anyone for a day: Hugh Heffner
If you could go on a date with anyone: Anna Kournikova
What would you like to see in your lifetime: A cure for cancer
Laziest trainer on the team: Tommie Archibald
Who spends the most getting ready after training: Steven Dwyer
Pre-match ritual: Don’t have one
Biggest Fear: I don’t have any fears
Biggest moaner on the pitch: Where do I start…
Worst dressed on team: Colin Clarke
Smartest on the team: Mark McCarville
Who you look to as inspiration as a captain: Roy Keane
You or Ivan when both playing at your peak: Me without doubt
Biggest influence on you: My parents, they rarely miss a game
Best bar person in Paddys: Audrey when she’s not taking a fag break
Sam 09: Galway
Hopes for 09: We get all our injuries cleared up and give the championship a good go. Were long overdue some silverware
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
Feile News
Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Feile and
all credit to Michelle Waters and Johnny Murphy for their
trojan work so far. Ballymore Eustace are hosting
Tipperary boys and a team of girls are travelling from
New York. This will create a great buzz in the village and
for our own boys and girls. The launch night is 21st May
in the County Grounds, St. Conleths, Newbridge. Good
luck to all involved.
Fundraising
Well done to Eoghan Barrett and Paul Murphy who “took
a leap of faith” with the bungee jump. The guys raised
about 2000 euros and thanks to Leslie for all her help and
to all who supported.
Also thanks to all who helped and supported the Senior
Club Auction.
A special thanks to Janet of Daybreak who subsidised and
organised a very successful Juvenile GAA Punchestown
Disco and also threw a few “mean” dance moves on the
floor ! Well done Jan. ! ( Photos to follow in next months
edition !).
125 Years of GAA
There was a great turnout in The Thatch on Sunday 10th
May for the 125 Years of GAA. Presentations were made
to Eddie Hubbard, Jim Clarke, Tommy Archibald, Keith
Fennell and our own Eoghan Barrett.
Christy Dennison supplied us with some “vintage” GAA
footage which produced some whoops and cheers from
the audience ! It was great to see some old faces and some
you wouldn't recognise now. A great night was had by all.
Football News
The Girls.
Feile team news
We had a challenge match on May bank holiday Monday
against Dunlavin. The girl's played very well on the night
winning with a score of 4:04 to 1:04.All the hard training
has been worth it!! Scorer's were Fiona Field 2:03, at last
we've found her position, Amy Mahon1:01 Molly Cullen
1:00.
U12 Team news
We played a challenge match v Kildare Lily White team
in Newbridge on Saturday 9th May. This was a very
competitive match played at a great pace of 3 twenty
minute sides. It was very evenly matched in first 20
minute's with the score level at 1;01 each then our girl's
from Ballymore Natasha Murphy and Heather Sammon
moved over to the County team for the next twenty
minutes, this swayed the game if favour of the Lily
White's, they then played the last twenty with Ballymore.
Molly Cullen played so well for Ballymore that she got a
call up to the Lily White team. Scorer's on the day Aoife
Murphy 1:01 Sophie Byrne 1:00 Molly Cullen 0:02.It was
overheard that Sophie scored more in her first matches
Than Fergie did in his whole career ! Well done Sophie.
Community Games
Ballymore v St Conleths in community games.
Front Row:Natasha Murphy, Lucy Field, Caoimhe
Winder, Katie Gilroy, Mayah Sammon, Amy Horan,
Eve Maguire, Beth Doyle. Back row:Oonagh Deegan,
Rachel Byrne, Rebecca Magee, Sophie Byrne, Savanagh
Fisher, Abby Foster, Saoirse Byrne, Ciara Fennan, Chloe
Fisher, Hannah Doyle. Scorer's Lucy Field1:02, Amy
Horan 0:01.
Football training for all has changed day and time
from Friday 15th May – Friday evenings @ 7pm.
The Boys .
Under 11 Football.
The Under 11 have finished their league campaign and
have qualified for the shield semi final. The match will
be against Castlemitchel and will be played within the
next week.
Community Games Football
The boys community games team recently played Sallins
in the first round of the Kildare community games.
There was never much between the teams and the lads
showed great determination and never gave up to win a
closely contested game by 2 points. The reward for the
win was an away against Naas West, who are current
All- Ireland Champions. This match was, again, closely
contested with a good Naas team getting the better of the
game in the end. This was the first time a number of the
lads to play competively for Ballymore and they should
all be proud of the way they played, even if some them
have been watching Ronaldo doing a bit too much
diving ! There were goof performances fron Stephen
Davis, Mark Barrett, Jordan Deegan, Evan Koegh and
Arron Deegan. These matches also saw young Sean
McNally playing in goal for the first ime and showed
that he is as good as his Dad Kevin, who hung up his
boots from the Intermediate team earlier this year – in
with the young and out with the old !
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
The Under 10 and U12 football leagues start on the week
beginning 18th May so the lads are going to busy on
Tuesday and Thursday nights until the end of June ! No
rest for the jersey washers or taxi drivers.
The Under 14 team, have been training hard for the All
Ireland Feile and they will be playing their league over
the next 8 weeks.
The boys school football team had a win over Two-Mile
House and lost to Dunlavin. The program of games has
finished as Athgarvan have pulled out of the competition.
Thanks to Mairead O'Flynn, Paul Murphy and Dermot
Waters for organising the team. The lads now turn their
attention to hurling where they have qualified for the
final. Best of luck to Martin Kelleher and the team.
Hurling
There has been a great turnout for training on Monday
evenings @ 7pm and with the help from our mentors, the
two Steve's, Alan, Gillian, Fintan, Martin, James and
Eoghan we can cater for the numbers turning up. Again, if
anyone is interested in helping out, we would welcome
your support.
Here are some of our youngest players – Under 8's
School hurling team makes final
Well done to Ballymore NS senior hurling team for
reaching the final of the Kildare Cumann na mBunscol
hurling competition. This is the first time ever that
Ballymore NS has got to a hurling final in its long
history!
With wins against Dunlavin, Newbridge and Coill Dubh,
Ballymore qualified to play Scoil ui Riada, Kilcock in the
semi-final on Wednesday 14th May in Naas.
This was a semi final to be remembered. In the first half
with the wind behind them, Ballymore got off to a great
start with forwards Dylan Waters, Robbie Noone, Adam
Murphy, Joshua Burke-Hayes and Thomas Mc Guirke
piling on the pressure. This pressure paid off with two
excellent goals by Shane Barrett. Ballymore looked set to
get a comfortable victory. But then the Ballymore lads
relaxed, Kilcock got more confident and eventually they
got a goal before half time. The Ballymore hurlers were
up against it in the second half now playing against the
wind and a strong Kilcock team. The pressure was
relentless for the full 25 minutes of the second half with
Kilcock coming close to scoring a second goal on
numerous occasions. Craig Byrne (goalie) even saving
one goal with his helmet
Everyone felt a second Kilcock goal had to come, but
Ballymore stuck firm with Niall O’Neill, Darragh
Kelleher, Tom Murphy, David Mac Athenmy and Harry
Murphy soaking up all the pressure in the back.
Eventually Shane got an insurance point and the end of
the match finally came. Ballymore won 2 goals 1 point
to Kilcocks 1 goal.
Ballymore will now play Straffan NS in the final on
Thursday 21st in Moorfield GAA grounds. Best of luck
to all.
Ballymore NS Senior Hurling Team
Back Row: Adam Murphy, Rossa Doyle, Harry
Murphy, Darragh Kelleher, David Mac Athenmy, Tom
Murphy, Niall O’ Neill, Dylan Waters.
Front Row: Robbie Noone, Thomas Mc Guirke, Shane
Barrett, Craig Byrne, Stephen Doyle, Tadhg Dooley,
Joshua Burke Hayes.
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
125 GAA Celebrations
The Club would like to thank everyone who attended their celebratory night in The Thatch. Awards were presented to Club Presidents Jim Clarke and Eddie Hubbard who received special recognition for their contribution to Ballymore GAA during their lifetime. Also winners on the night were Club Person (Eoin Barrett), Senior Player (Tommie Archibald) and Young Player (Keith Fennell) of the year for 2008.
A special thanks to Christy Dennisson who did a great job taking photos and showing videos from u10 all the way up to Senior level over the past 30 years. Anyone interested in copies of any of these videos are to contact Christy. The music was in full flow too with “Arc” keeping us entertained all night with great traditional songs and tunes.
Hollywood GAA Club entertained us visitors for some challenge matches during the afternoon. Teams representing Ballymore & Hollywood at underage levels as well as the senior teams. Our thanks to all associated with Hollywood GAA for a great afternoon of sport and craic.
Marbella 2009
It looks like to Senior Club will be jetting off to Spain at the end of October to play in the “Marbella Tournament”. The Club played in the competition a few years ago and a great trip was had by all. Details will be in next months Bugle for members interested.
Summer Camp
The annual kid’s summer camp is taking place this year from the 6th-10th of July.
Féile 2009
Club members are currently cleaning up the grounds in preparation for the Féile 09 taking place in Ballymore. Ballymore will be entering two teams (check juvenile notes) and it runs on the second and third of July.
Training
Despite so many injuries the senior team is experiencing at the moment training is still going strong in preparation for the 1st round of the championship against Eadestown.
Senior League Division 2
Ballymore 1-09 Rheban 1-09
Ballymore had to settle for a share of the spoils for the second week running as they rued some wasteful shooting and poor passing, a last gasp free from county man James Kavanagh saving their blushes. Ballymore settled quickly but kicked five wides in as many minutes and when Rheban went down the other end and scored a goal through Tom Harris it looked like it was going to be one of those days for the home side. That proved to be the visitors only score from play in the game but their free takers proved deadly on the day and could have easily snatched victory for the visitors.
Rheban full forward C. Perse was proving a real handful in full forward with his support play and efforts from placed balls, the first for him in the eight minute to leave four between the sides. Ballymore finally got off the mark in the twelfth minute through a Gareth Clarke free but Rheban responded through a 45 from the boot of Alan Harris. Tommie Archibald kept the home team in contention with an angled point on fifteen minutes but indiscipline in the Ballymore back line resulted in another free converted by Perse. Mark McCarville then hit 1-01 within a minute of each other, the goal coming for the big full forward after being played in by Gareth Clarke and Tommie Archibald. Perse finished the scoring with a free for Rheban to leave the half-time score 1-04 to 1-03 in favour of the visitors.
Ballymore welcomed county star James Kavanagh into the side for the second half and he immediately came into his own pointing straight away, then setting up Tommie Archibald to put the home side ahead for the first time. A free from Kavanagh put two between the teams and it looked like the home team would push on but Rheban replied with two pointed frees, one a piece from C. Perse and Alan Harris to level the game. Tommie Archibald scored a great point with his back to goal fifteen minutes into the second half to leave the smallest of margins between the sides. Five frees in the last ten minutes, three for Rheban (Perse) and two for Ballymore (Kavanagh) ensured that neither team took home the two league points on offer instead settling for one league point each.
Best for the home side were Tommie Archibald, James Kavanagh and Colin Clarke while Rheban had solid performances in C. Perse, A Harris and M. Connor
Ballymore 0-4 Naas 3-18
Ballymore went into this game stretched for numbers with a mountain of injuries and absentees and were never able to match a rampant Naas outfit. Such was the extent of injuries the “gaffer” polished off his boots to stand on the edge of the square once more. Olly O’ Neill opened the scoring for the home side but from then on it one way traffic. Ballymore did work hard and never game up with the other points coming from Eoin Kavanagh and Mark McCarville.
Miltown 0-12 Ballymore 2-06
Milltown and Ballymore shared the points in round six of Division 2 in a game played in very windy conditions. Despite playing against the wind it was Milltown who struck first with points from Myles O’ Reilly and Ian Fitzgerald. Eoin Kavanagh and O’ Reilly exchanged frees before two more points from Kavanagh (1f) levelled up the sides once more. An Eoin O’ Sullivan point followed by a 45 from Eoghan O’ Toole restored the home sides two point lead. Steven Dwyer then hit two in a row for Ballymore to tie up the game with Ballymore’s William O’ Donoghue missing a penalty that was somehow brilliantly saved by the Milltown keeper. A fisted point for Alan Dignam left the half time score 0-6 to 0-5 in favour of the home side.
On the resumption two quick Milltown scores from O’ Toole and O’ Reilly put three between the sides but Mark McCarville levelled up the game with a well taken goal. Milltown then fired over three in a row but an Eoin Kavanagh point followed up by the same player burying the ball to the net gave the visitors the lead for the first time. However Milltown were not to be denied a share of the spoils and a side line from O’ Toole ensured neither team went home empty handed. Best for Ballymore were Eoin Kavangh, Keith Conway and Steven Dwyer.
Upcoming Fixtures
Senior League Division 2
Sat 23rd May Clane (away)
Sat 6th June Straffan (home)
Sun 14th June Raheens (home)
Sat 20th June Ballyteague (away)
Tues 23rd June Castledermot (away)
Sat 27th June Eadestown (home)
St. Oliver Plunkett’s
Hard luck to the minor team who lost to St. Coco’s in the league semi-final by two points.
Player Profile
This month it’s the turn of “Captain” Tadhg Grace to answer a few questions on Ballymore GAA.
Fav Position: Midfield
Best Match ever played in: Championship semi-final vs Johnstownbridge.
Best BME player ever: Jarleth Gilroy
Favourite Manager: Mick Murtagh
One player you would like on BME team: Kevin McNally!!
Fav Meal before a match: Pasta
Best player you ever marked: Killian Brennan
If you couldn’t play GAA you would play: Golf
Fav Film: Wedding Crashers
Best player on the women’s team: Lesley Tutty or Aisling Hubbard
If you could be anyone for a day: Hugh Heffner
If you could go on a date with anyone: Anna Kournikova
What would you like to see in your lifetime: A cure for cancer
Laziest trainer on the team: Tommie Archibald
Who spends the most getting ready after training: Steven Dwyer
Pre-match ritual: Don’t have one
Biggest Fear: I don’t have any fears
Biggest moaner on the pitch: Where do I start…
Worst dressed on team: Colin Clarke
Smartest on the team: Mark McCarville
Who you look to as inspiration as a captain: Roy Keane
You or Ivan when both playing at your peak: Me without doubt
Biggest influence on you: My parents, they rarely miss a game
Best bar person in Paddys: Audrey when she’s not taking a fag break
Sam 09: Galway
Hopes for 09: We get all our injuries cleared up and give the championship a good go. Were long overdue some silverware
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
Feile News
Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Feile and
all credit to Michelle Waters and Johnny Murphy for their
trojan work so far. Ballymore Eustace are hosting
Tipperary boys and a team of girls are travelling from
New York. This will create a great buzz in the village and
for our own boys and girls. The launch night is 21st May
in the County Grounds, St. Conleths, Newbridge. Good
luck to all involved.
Fundraising
Well done to Eoghan Barrett and Paul Murphy who “took
a leap of faith” with the bungee jump. The guys raised
about 2000 euros and thanks to Leslie for all her help and
to all who supported.
Also thanks to all who helped and supported the Senior
Club Auction.
A special thanks to Janet of Daybreak who subsidised and
organised a very successful Juvenile GAA Punchestown
Disco and also threw a few “mean” dance moves on the
floor ! Well done Jan. ! ( Photos to follow in next months
edition !).
125 Years of GAA
There was a great turnout in The Thatch on Sunday 10th
May for the 125 Years of GAA. Presentations were made
to Eddie Hubbard, Jim Clarke, Tommy Archibald, Keith
Fennell and our own Eoghan Barrett.
Christy Dennison supplied us with some “vintage” GAA
footage which produced some whoops and cheers from
the audience ! It was great to see some old faces and some
you wouldn't recognise now. A great night was had by all.
Football News
The Girls.
Feile team news
We had a challenge match on May bank holiday Monday
against Dunlavin. The girl's played very well on the night
winning with a score of 4:04 to 1:04.All the hard training
has been worth it!! Scorer's were Fiona Field 2:03, at last
we've found her position, Amy Mahon1:01 Molly Cullen
1:00.
U12 Team news
We played a challenge match v Kildare Lily White team
in Newbridge on Saturday 9th May. This was a very
competitive match played at a great pace of 3 twenty
minute sides. It was very evenly matched in first 20
minute's with the score level at 1;01 each then our girl's
from Ballymore Natasha Murphy and Heather Sammon
moved over to the County team for the next twenty
minutes, this swayed the game if favour of the Lily
White's, they then played the last twenty with Ballymore.
Molly Cullen played so well for Ballymore that she got a
call up to the Lily White team. Scorer's on the day Aoife
Murphy 1:01 Sophie Byrne 1:00 Molly Cullen 0:02.It was
overheard that Sophie scored more in her first matches
Than Fergie did in his whole career ! Well done Sophie.
Community Games
Ballymore v St Conleths in community games.
Front Row:Natasha Murphy, Lucy Field, Caoimhe
Winder, Katie Gilroy, Mayah Sammon, Amy Horan,
Eve Maguire, Beth Doyle. Back row:Oonagh Deegan,
Rachel Byrne, Rebecca Magee, Sophie Byrne, Savanagh
Fisher, Abby Foster, Saoirse Byrne, Ciara Fennan, Chloe
Fisher, Hannah Doyle. Scorer's Lucy Field1:02, Amy
Horan 0:01.
Football training for all has changed day and time
from Friday 15th May – Friday evenings @ 7pm.
The Boys .
Under 11 Football.
The Under 11 have finished their league campaign and
have qualified for the shield semi final. The match will
be against Castlemitchel and will be played within the
next week.
Community Games Football
The boys community games team recently played Sallins
in the first round of the Kildare community games.
There was never much between the teams and the lads
showed great determination and never gave up to win a
closely contested game by 2 points. The reward for the
win was an away against Naas West, who are current
All- Ireland Champions. This match was, again, closely
contested with a good Naas team getting the better of the
game in the end. This was the first time a number of the
lads to play competively for Ballymore and they should
all be proud of the way they played, even if some them
have been watching Ronaldo doing a bit too much
diving ! There were goof performances fron Stephen
Davis, Mark Barrett, Jordan Deegan, Evan Koegh and
Arron Deegan. These matches also saw young Sean
McNally playing in goal for the first ime and showed
that he is as good as his Dad Kevin, who hung up his
boots from the Intermediate team earlier this year – in
with the young and out with the old !
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
The Under 10 and U12 football leagues start on the week
beginning 18th May so the lads are going to busy on
Tuesday and Thursday nights until the end of June ! No
rest for the jersey washers or taxi drivers.
The Under 14 team, have been training hard for the All
Ireland Feile and they will be playing their league over
the next 8 weeks.
The boys school football team had a win over Two-Mile
House and lost to Dunlavin. The program of games has
finished as Athgarvan have pulled out of the competition.
Thanks to Mairead O'Flynn, Paul Murphy and Dermot
Waters for organising the team. The lads now turn their
attention to hurling where they have qualified for the
final. Best of luck to Martin Kelleher and the team.
Hurling
There has been a great turnout for training on Monday
evenings @ 7pm and with the help from our mentors, the
two Steve's, Alan, Gillian, Fintan, Martin, James and
Eoghan we can cater for the numbers turning up. Again, if
anyone is interested in helping out, we would welcome
your support.
Here are some of our youngest players – Under 8's
School hurling team makes final
Well done to Ballymore NS senior hurling team for
reaching the final of the Kildare Cumann na mBunscol
hurling competition. This is the first time ever that
Ballymore NS has got to a hurling final in its long
history!
With wins against Dunlavin, Newbridge and Coill Dubh,
Ballymore qualified to play Scoil ui Riada, Kilcock in the
semi-final on Wednesday 14th May in Naas.
This was a semi final to be remembered. In the first half
with the wind behind them, Ballymore got off to a great
start with forwards Dylan Waters, Robbie Noone, Adam
Murphy, Joshua Burke-Hayes and Thomas Mc Guirke
piling on the pressure. This pressure paid off with two
excellent goals by Shane Barrett. Ballymore looked set to
get a comfortable victory. But then the Ballymore lads
relaxed, Kilcock got more confident and eventually they
got a goal before half time. The Ballymore hurlers were
up against it in the second half now playing against the
wind and a strong Kilcock team. The pressure was
relentless for the full 25 minutes of the second half with
Kilcock coming close to scoring a second goal on
numerous occasions. Craig Byrne (goalie) even saving
one goal with his helmet
Everyone felt a second Kilcock goal had to come, but
Ballymore stuck firm with Niall O’Neill, Darragh
Kelleher, Tom Murphy, David Mac Athenmy and Harry
Murphy soaking up all the pressure in the back.
Eventually Shane got an insurance point and the end of
the match finally came. Ballymore won 2 goals 1 point
to Kilcocks 1 goal.
Ballymore will now play Straffan NS in the final on
Thursday 21st in Moorfield GAA grounds. Best of luck
to all.
Ballymore NS Senior Hurling Team
Back Row: Adam Murphy, Rossa Doyle, Harry
Murphy, Darragh Kelleher, David Mac Athenmy, Tom
Murphy, Niall O’ Neill, Dylan Waters.
Front Row: Robbie Noone, Thomas Mc Guirke, Shane
Barrett, Craig Byrne, Stephen Doyle, Tadhg Dooley,
Joshua Burke Hayes.
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
Ballymore Eustace GAA Club
Juvenile Football & Hurling
an Baile Mor
Coaching motto: Children first, winning second
The Late Agnes {Aggie} Curry (1929-2008)
When I think of the late Agnes, it is a memory of her from the 1960’s – always immaculately groomed, the hair stylish, lipstick always worn and the smart, quick way she walked – a woman with determination and dare I say it, one who didn’t suffer fools! I remember her as sharp of mind and not afraid to give her opinion whether it was required or not. Agnes was born to Garda Thomas Meehan and his wife, Margaret nee Byrne/Farrell of Chapel Street, and the family lived in Clontarf when Agnes was young. On one visit to Ballymore Eustace, little Aggie got violently ill and was left with her Aunt, Mrs Byrne (Myles’ mam) who ran Farrell’s Shop on Chapel Street (her aunt was married to the late Jack Byrne).
Young Agnes loved working in the shop and didn’t want to leave especially when Garda Meehan was later promoted to the rank of Superintendent and moved to Granard, Co Longford. She settled well into school here and it was in primary school that she met her future husband. After school, Agnes went to Dublin and took an apprenticeship in hairdressing but she returned to Ballymore at weekends to see family and no doubt, the handsome Paddy Curry. Together, they bought the Curry home next to The Forge in 1955, which had previously been owned by Purcell’s.
Aggie set up a hairdressing salon from home where she worked for over 30 years and even travelled to elderly clients when they were no longer able to get in to the village. I recall the promotion boards in the window and
the strong hair scent of hair spray if the door was open as a customer left and I was fascinated with the sight of
the occasional woman leaving with huge rollers and a bright nylon scarf wrapped around her head. In my innocence, I thought I would never go to those lengths in the name of beauty…….Little did I know! Perms and sets were the order of the day and Aggie had loyal customers for decades.
Paddy was a carpenter by trade, a quiet easy going man; his first job was on the Curragh and coincidentally, his last job was on the Cathedral in Kildare Town. He died at the young age of 67 in 1996 and Aggie was devastated at his death. “They were a perfect match, my parents” said John, Aggie’s son. “My father was placid and my mother, well my mother wasn’t placid, that’s for sure!”
The couple loved to travel and enjoyed many a holiday abroad with the Isle of Man, Spain and Portugal being their favourite destinations. Aggie was a great cook but couldn’t master the art of baking bread at all. She loved classical music and art was her passion which obviously led to her association with Russborough. Agnes studied the lives and works of artists to a rare intensity.
The couple enjoyed regular card games at home with friends such as Greg and Maura Byrne, Sean Byrne, Noel and Bridget Headon, Dr Laura and Pat Burke, Hilda and Joe Headon. Paddy was especially close to Noel and his brothers, Brendan, Joe and Willie. Other regular visitors or holiday companions included Rita and Tom O’Rourke, Kathleen and Andy Cowley, Valerie Hamilton, Annette and Justin Byrne, Myles Byrne, Eddie Darby, Anne (Gordon) and John Meehan, Patricia Woody, Fr Frank McDonald and Nellie Carroll who always cheered Aggie up.
“Martin Deegan was great for keeping an eye on the house here and for doing jobs around the place as Mam got older; when she’d see Martin, it was a great excuse to open a tin of biscuits and make a cup of tea and she’d keep him talking for hours on end – so much so that Martin would come in early and ask us not to tell her he was about or he’d never get anything done!”
John’s wife, Muriel noted when she first came to Ballymore and was introduced to people as John Curry’s wife and they realised she was living with Mrs Curry, she regularly got a sympathetic look and a “Bless you.”
“I hadn’t a clue what they meant by that at first!” she laughed.
Aggie’s opininated personality was marked by her energy and drive; along with running her hair salon, she worked with Russborough House as a tour guide for 25 years and organised the annual trip to Lourdes for parishioners from Ballymore and Hollywood parish. “From Rollers to Rosary to Russborough” added John.
Aggie’s organisational skills were excellent and God help a tour guide or hotel employee who messed up Aggie’s booking! They were terrified of her but she always made sure the Ballymore brigade got best value and were well looked after. She ran the Ballymore Lourdes group for over 40 years.
In latter years, osteoporosis set in and made Aggie’s mobility difficult and greatly reduced her energy levels, much to Aggie’s frustration. “She still liked to look her best” said Muriel “And always took pride in her appearance even when she was ill in hospital”. Cancer affected Aggie for the final years of her life but she fought the illness as she had tackled all other obstacles in her life – with great determination.
“She was very poorly at one stage and we were told to expect ‘the worst’” added John. “She was 90% paralyzed with doctors and nurses standing over her, simply waiting on her final departure. I was urged to leave at 4am and return for her expected passing the following morning. I arrived at 9am with mother in the bed, like a bull, sitting up in the bed, arms folded, face like a sergeant major and complained “I can’t even get a feckin’ cup of tea here……and where were you anyway?” Hilarious, it was…..Lazurus couldn’t have topped it.”
Her cousin Myles Byrne and nephew John Meehan were very good for visiting her in hospital but they got a lash of her tongue on occasions too. “I remember her telling Myles to remove the bars from the side of the hospital bed and take her home. As Myles managed to escape, she told him to sod off home and stay there with John Meehan laughing in the corner. “And you can sod off too” she says “You’re no good to me either!” I don’t know how they put up with her but she was very fond of them both despite all her giving out.”
Muriel’s talent with fresh and dried flowers did find favour with Agnes and the couple were happy to spoil her with flowers during her long illness. “She was devastated when the family home caught fire in 1994 with serious smoke damage and the inner walls were gutted. She went to live temporarily across the road to Headon’s house until the damage was repaired but it broke her heart.” Annette Byrne was of great support to Agnes during this time, Both Annette and Agnes scrubbed soot and smoke off plates, glasses etc for 3 months. Annette was always dropping in for a spot of coffee, they were great friends. Another aspect of her personality was her generosity in supporting several charities, something she didn’t advertise and its something we continue. “Mind you, when she was cooking, you could’nt escape without having to sample everything and when it came to adding spirits to baking, she never used a measure! And that sums my Mum’s personality up – excessively generous, bright and opinionated but equally strong on commitment, hard work and energy.” added John.
The late Agnes Curry, sadly missed by her Son and Daughter in law, friends and family, may she rest in peace, amen.
A Night With The Fir Bolg
The Naomh Eanna bobbed up and down on the choppy sea, rolling continually to starboard and then to port side, half twisting its way back to starboard, then lurching forward, causing those on deck to grip the handrails more forcibly while the wind-whipped sea-spray showered the few passengers still topside and brave enough to face the elements of nature. The thirty mile journey to Inishmore in this veritable bathtub with an engine, was an odyssey no less dissimilar to the perils suffered by Jason and the Argonouts as they went in search of the Golden Fleece. In a sense, I was travelling back through time to the same era as Jason, and in Ireland, the age of the Firbolg, to visit their old domain, Dun Aengus, on Inishmore, largest of the Aran Islands, later to be called Island of The Saints.
When I was young, my parents visited many historical sites not too far from Dublin, and included Glendalough and Clonmacnoise, but most impressionably for me, Newgrange, when it was but a large green mound having few visitors. The gatekeeper, who lived in a cottage opposite the to the site, unlocked the simple wrought iron entrance gate to the ‘tomb’ gave ‘a personal tour’ through this great Celtic monument and its chamber, telling of its history, of the stone decoration and its uses through time according to the archaeologists. It was mesmerizing, and before I left the chamber I was imbued with a ‘spirit’ from within that place and its mammoth stones as though an aura surrounded me. Ever since, no matter where I went to places of antiquity, stones held presence around me, a belonging, as though a message was being imparted, a mystery as yet unrevealed, yet to be realized and understood.
Old Ireland comes to life as you cross the river Shannon at Athlone. Dry stoney walls divide fields on the way to the west, creating an indefinable pattern across the land as though it was a vast handwork of crocheted lace stretching over fifty miles to the Atlantic coast and nearly a hundred miles north and south of it. To hitchhike there was also to walk many miles along the route to Galway and on each side the walls surrounded you in protection, guiding you to your destination. To be so close, and to move at walking pace is both a preparation and a prerequisite in understanding the culture you are about to experience, for along that hard road you absorb, and are eventually inculcated.
The day after that mighty ‘steamer’ docked at Kilronan, and taking into account other ancient church and cultural monuments en route, I headed for Kilmurvey, and then across the island to Dun Aengus, impregnable fort of the Firbolg. It has been described as the Acropolis of Inishmore, but in our time the multitude of the relicts of the later fifth to tenth centuries, churches and tombs, represent a necropolis; but even if so, one of supreme importance in our history.
Dun Aengus loomed large to the eye, and against this advancing army of one, confronted it. Everywhere was littered with stone of all sizes, especially un-native granite, cast there it is said, as the ice age receded; for the island is composed of limestone, formed in shallow tropical waters about 350 million years ago around the equatorial regions, and shunted to this place in the northern latitudes. The fort is oval shaped, and outside the first wall is a masse of unregulated sharp-edged angular-protruding stone lodged in the ground, each one three to four feet long rising from the ground (chevaux-de-frise) as a first line of defence against attack. A short clearing leads to a higher second wall before the main fort which is over twenty feet high and at the base, thirteen feet thick. Entrance to the inner court is by a narrow doorway and encloses an area of 150 x 140 feet. To the unwary, the court has a terminal point; a cliff, with a shear 300 foot drop to the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond, in the mist, lies the lost Fifth Province of Ireland, Hi-Brasil. In the distant horizon, Newfoundland beckons.
I stayed in this court for hours, climbing the inner ramparts, speculating whether or not the fort had once been a complete circle, or had the other half slipped quietly at night into the ocean below, like the Titanic? Looking at the stonework for answers to these and other mysteries, I contemplated too on the wisdom of camping in this isolated spot where I stood, with the inherent dangers of downdraught wind-storms; but the sky was wonderfully clear and recalling O’Siochain’s line of the intimacy of this inner place, its very soul – Ciuineas gan uaigneas, solitude without lonliness – I decided to stay with my friends, the Fir Bolg, for I had no fear nor felt any danger, even from their mortal enemies, the Tuatha de Danann.
The following morning I was awakened by the voices of a young couple, who got as much a fright at seeing me lying lodged against the inner fort wall close to the cliff edge, as I did at their foreign language. They were from Switzerland and I gave them what knowledge I had of this curious place. We exchanged picturesque photos, they for me (inset), and I for them.
The following year, in September, while hitchhiking to Florence, I called to a bank in Basle to change currency, and dashing up the steps to push my weight to open the door, it did so automatically, leaving me sprawled across the floor of the bank. “Hello there”, the pretty face smiled, “we have met before, have we not?” Michael Ward.
When I think of the late Agnes, it is a memory of her from the 1960’s – always immaculately groomed, the hair stylish, lipstick always worn and the smart, quick way she walked – a woman with determination and dare I say it, one who didn’t suffer fools! I remember her as sharp of mind and not afraid to give her opinion whether it was required or not. Agnes was born to Garda Thomas Meehan and his wife, Margaret nee Byrne/Farrell of Chapel Street, and the family lived in Clontarf when Agnes was young. On one visit to Ballymore Eustace, little Aggie got violently ill and was left with her Aunt, Mrs Byrne (Myles’ mam) who ran Farrell’s Shop on Chapel Street (her aunt was married to the late Jack Byrne).
Young Agnes loved working in the shop and didn’t want to leave especially when Garda Meehan was later promoted to the rank of Superintendent and moved to Granard, Co Longford. She settled well into school here and it was in primary school that she met her future husband. After school, Agnes went to Dublin and took an apprenticeship in hairdressing but she returned to Ballymore at weekends to see family and no doubt, the handsome Paddy Curry. Together, they bought the Curry home next to The Forge in 1955, which had previously been owned by Purcell’s.
Aggie set up a hairdressing salon from home where she worked for over 30 years and even travelled to elderly clients when they were no longer able to get in to the village. I recall the promotion boards in the window and
the strong hair scent of hair spray if the door was open as a customer left and I was fascinated with the sight of
the occasional woman leaving with huge rollers and a bright nylon scarf wrapped around her head. In my innocence, I thought I would never go to those lengths in the name of beauty…….Little did I know! Perms and sets were the order of the day and Aggie had loyal customers for decades.
Paddy was a carpenter by trade, a quiet easy going man; his first job was on the Curragh and coincidentally, his last job was on the Cathedral in Kildare Town. He died at the young age of 67 in 1996 and Aggie was devastated at his death. “They were a perfect match, my parents” said John, Aggie’s son. “My father was placid and my mother, well my mother wasn’t placid, that’s for sure!”
The couple loved to travel and enjoyed many a holiday abroad with the Isle of Man, Spain and Portugal being their favourite destinations. Aggie was a great cook but couldn’t master the art of baking bread at all. She loved classical music and art was her passion which obviously led to her association with Russborough. Agnes studied the lives and works of artists to a rare intensity.
The couple enjoyed regular card games at home with friends such as Greg and Maura Byrne, Sean Byrne, Noel and Bridget Headon, Dr Laura and Pat Burke, Hilda and Joe Headon. Paddy was especially close to Noel and his brothers, Brendan, Joe and Willie. Other regular visitors or holiday companions included Rita and Tom O’Rourke, Kathleen and Andy Cowley, Valerie Hamilton, Annette and Justin Byrne, Myles Byrne, Eddie Darby, Anne (Gordon) and John Meehan, Patricia Woody, Fr Frank McDonald and Nellie Carroll who always cheered Aggie up.
“Martin Deegan was great for keeping an eye on the house here and for doing jobs around the place as Mam got older; when she’d see Martin, it was a great excuse to open a tin of biscuits and make a cup of tea and she’d keep him talking for hours on end – so much so that Martin would come in early and ask us not to tell her he was about or he’d never get anything done!”
John’s wife, Muriel noted when she first came to Ballymore and was introduced to people as John Curry’s wife and they realised she was living with Mrs Curry, she regularly got a sympathetic look and a “Bless you.”
“I hadn’t a clue what they meant by that at first!” she laughed.
Aggie’s opininated personality was marked by her energy and drive; along with running her hair salon, she worked with Russborough House as a tour guide for 25 years and organised the annual trip to Lourdes for parishioners from Ballymore and Hollywood parish. “From Rollers to Rosary to Russborough” added John.
Aggie’s organisational skills were excellent and God help a tour guide or hotel employee who messed up Aggie’s booking! They were terrified of her but she always made sure the Ballymore brigade got best value and were well looked after. She ran the Ballymore Lourdes group for over 40 years.
In latter years, osteoporosis set in and made Aggie’s mobility difficult and greatly reduced her energy levels, much to Aggie’s frustration. “She still liked to look her best” said Muriel “And always took pride in her appearance even when she was ill in hospital”. Cancer affected Aggie for the final years of her life but she fought the illness as she had tackled all other obstacles in her life – with great determination.
“She was very poorly at one stage and we were told to expect ‘the worst’” added John. “She was 90% paralyzed with doctors and nurses standing over her, simply waiting on her final departure. I was urged to leave at 4am and return for her expected passing the following morning. I arrived at 9am with mother in the bed, like a bull, sitting up in the bed, arms folded, face like a sergeant major and complained “I can’t even get a feckin’ cup of tea here……and where were you anyway?” Hilarious, it was…..Lazurus couldn’t have topped it.”
Her cousin Myles Byrne and nephew John Meehan were very good for visiting her in hospital but they got a lash of her tongue on occasions too. “I remember her telling Myles to remove the bars from the side of the hospital bed and take her home. As Myles managed to escape, she told him to sod off home and stay there with John Meehan laughing in the corner. “And you can sod off too” she says “You’re no good to me either!” I don’t know how they put up with her but she was very fond of them both despite all her giving out.”
Muriel’s talent with fresh and dried flowers did find favour with Agnes and the couple were happy to spoil her with flowers during her long illness. “She was devastated when the family home caught fire in 1994 with serious smoke damage and the inner walls were gutted. She went to live temporarily across the road to Headon’s house until the damage was repaired but it broke her heart.” Annette Byrne was of great support to Agnes during this time, Both Annette and Agnes scrubbed soot and smoke off plates, glasses etc for 3 months. Annette was always dropping in for a spot of coffee, they were great friends. Another aspect of her personality was her generosity in supporting several charities, something she didn’t advertise and its something we continue. “Mind you, when she was cooking, you could’nt escape without having to sample everything and when it came to adding spirits to baking, she never used a measure! And that sums my Mum’s personality up – excessively generous, bright and opinionated but equally strong on commitment, hard work and energy.” added John.
The late Agnes Curry, sadly missed by her Son and Daughter in law, friends and family, may she rest in peace, amen.
A Night With The Fir Bolg
The Naomh Eanna bobbed up and down on the choppy sea, rolling continually to starboard and then to port side, half twisting its way back to starboard, then lurching forward, causing those on deck to grip the handrails more forcibly while the wind-whipped sea-spray showered the few passengers still topside and brave enough to face the elements of nature. The thirty mile journey to Inishmore in this veritable bathtub with an engine, was an odyssey no less dissimilar to the perils suffered by Jason and the Argonouts as they went in search of the Golden Fleece. In a sense, I was travelling back through time to the same era as Jason, and in Ireland, the age of the Firbolg, to visit their old domain, Dun Aengus, on Inishmore, largest of the Aran Islands, later to be called Island of The Saints.
When I was young, my parents visited many historical sites not too far from Dublin, and included Glendalough and Clonmacnoise, but most impressionably for me, Newgrange, when it was but a large green mound having few visitors. The gatekeeper, who lived in a cottage opposite the to the site, unlocked the simple wrought iron entrance gate to the ‘tomb’ gave ‘a personal tour’ through this great Celtic monument and its chamber, telling of its history, of the stone decoration and its uses through time according to the archaeologists. It was mesmerizing, and before I left the chamber I was imbued with a ‘spirit’ from within that place and its mammoth stones as though an aura surrounded me. Ever since, no matter where I went to places of antiquity, stones held presence around me, a belonging, as though a message was being imparted, a mystery as yet unrevealed, yet to be realized and understood.
Old Ireland comes to life as you cross the river Shannon at Athlone. Dry stoney walls divide fields on the way to the west, creating an indefinable pattern across the land as though it was a vast handwork of crocheted lace stretching over fifty miles to the Atlantic coast and nearly a hundred miles north and south of it. To hitchhike there was also to walk many miles along the route to Galway and on each side the walls surrounded you in protection, guiding you to your destination. To be so close, and to move at walking pace is both a preparation and a prerequisite in understanding the culture you are about to experience, for along that hard road you absorb, and are eventually inculcated.
The day after that mighty ‘steamer’ docked at Kilronan, and taking into account other ancient church and cultural monuments en route, I headed for Kilmurvey, and then across the island to Dun Aengus, impregnable fort of the Firbolg. It has been described as the Acropolis of Inishmore, but in our time the multitude of the relicts of the later fifth to tenth centuries, churches and tombs, represent a necropolis; but even if so, one of supreme importance in our history.
Dun Aengus loomed large to the eye, and against this advancing army of one, confronted it. Everywhere was littered with stone of all sizes, especially un-native granite, cast there it is said, as the ice age receded; for the island is composed of limestone, formed in shallow tropical waters about 350 million years ago around the equatorial regions, and shunted to this place in the northern latitudes. The fort is oval shaped, and outside the first wall is a masse of unregulated sharp-edged angular-protruding stone lodged in the ground, each one three to four feet long rising from the ground (chevaux-de-frise) as a first line of defence against attack. A short clearing leads to a higher second wall before the main fort which is over twenty feet high and at the base, thirteen feet thick. Entrance to the inner court is by a narrow doorway and encloses an area of 150 x 140 feet. To the unwary, the court has a terminal point; a cliff, with a shear 300 foot drop to the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond, in the mist, lies the lost Fifth Province of Ireland, Hi-Brasil. In the distant horizon, Newfoundland beckons.
I stayed in this court for hours, climbing the inner ramparts, speculating whether or not the fort had once been a complete circle, or had the other half slipped quietly at night into the ocean below, like the Titanic? Looking at the stonework for answers to these and other mysteries, I contemplated too on the wisdom of camping in this isolated spot where I stood, with the inherent dangers of downdraught wind-storms; but the sky was wonderfully clear and recalling O’Siochain’s line of the intimacy of this inner place, its very soul – Ciuineas gan uaigneas, solitude without lonliness – I decided to stay with my friends, the Fir Bolg, for I had no fear nor felt any danger, even from their mortal enemies, the Tuatha de Danann.
The following morning I was awakened by the voices of a young couple, who got as much a fright at seeing me lying lodged against the inner fort wall close to the cliff edge, as I did at their foreign language. They were from Switzerland and I gave them what knowledge I had of this curious place. We exchanged picturesque photos, they for me (inset), and I for them.
The following year, in September, while hitchhiking to Florence, I called to a bank in Basle to change currency, and dashing up the steps to push my weight to open the door, it did so automatically, leaving me sprawled across the floor of the bank. “Hello there”, the pretty face smiled, “we have met before, have we not?” Michael Ward.
Frances, can you put the list of sponsors into 2 columns, please in bullet point and the list of winners into double columns also
Ballymore Eustace
Community Development Association Ltd
The recent raffle to fund Tidy Town’s projects was a great success and a cheque for €2000 was handed over to Mr. Eric Firth of the Tidy Town’s committee at our recent meeting. We must thank most sincerely the following who very generously sponsored or supplied our prizes:
Mr. Willie Doyle, Newbridge Cutlery who donated €500
Mr. Tom O’Keefe – Naas Insurance
Punchestown Racecourse
Bill Delaney
Mary Deegan
Kildare Betting
The Thatch
Ballymore Inn
Poulaphouca Hotel
Kieran Langan
Rose B. O’Donoghue
Ardenode Hotel
Costcutters
Gallery & Gifts
Gerry Blake
Fogarty’s Quik Pick
Elizabeth’s Hair Salon
Pat Murphy Pub
Ollie Deegan
Mick Murphy’s Pub
Kay Nolan
We would also like to thank all the ticket sellers for their Trojan work – well done! And all those who supported our raffle by buying tickets – “Go raibh mile maith agat!”
The Winners are as follows:
Bill Delaney
Tony Lehart
Henry Murphy
Pat & Mary Browne
Edwina Deegan
Ethna Miley
Ailish Massey
Aoife Ablett
Gus Kavanagh
A.Doyle, Poulaphouca
Michael Gill
Brendan Nolan
Mary Chalkey
Niamh Lawless
Mary Murphy
Ally Conroy
Paul Murphy
Finola Dunworth
Paddy Hudson
Breda Hudson
Ben Noone
We also hosted a Children’s Party and Fancy Dress in the Resource Centre. This was a great success and enjoyed by all (young and not so young!) No child went home without a prize! Sincere thanks to Elizabeth of Elizabeth’s Hair Salon for her kind sponsorship of the Fancy Dress and to last year’s Punchestown Festival Committee for their donation towards the party.
Winners of the Fancy Dress were: Kate Gilroy, Eabha Gilroy and Des Horan – see photo attached
- Ballymore Eustace Community Development Association Ltd
Across the bottom of page with two small boxed adverts for Car Boot & Vincent de Paul
Enable Ireland take to the streets of New York!
Marathon to raise monies where it is needed most…
The world’s greatest marathon, the ING New York Marathon is an amazing journey through the streets of New York taking in the 5 boroughs of New York. From Staten Island to Central Park, over 40,000 participants and 2 million spectators will urge you on from the sidelines - crossing the finish line is an incredible and thrilling experience. This year’s marathon takes place on Sunday 1st November. Places are filling up fast for the Enable Ireland tour offered in conjunction with Sports Travel International. If you have ever thought about participating in a Marathon, this is definitely one to seriously consider. As part of the Enable Ireland New York Marathon Tour 09 you receive guaranteed race entry, flights, accommodation, transfers, insurance, transfer to the start line and celebration dinner. Flights are available from Dublin or Shannon on Friday 30th October returning on Wednesday 4th November. For more details and to book your place call Willie Callaghan at 045 846108 or email wcallaghan@enableireland.ie
Car Boot Sale
At Cross & Passion College, Kilcullen on Sunday, 7th June
Gates open for set-up at 9am, sale through to 3pm.
One car space €10:: One van space €15.
Vincent de Paul Shop appeal for all good quality clothes, bric-brac, books etc
Open: 9.30am till 3.30pm Monday to Friday with new opening time on Saturday from 10am till 12pm. Wishing all our friends and customers a great Summer!
on passing by- again
I am really beginning to wonder if this Government and the HSE are so fatally flawed that they are unable to get anything at all done properly. The recent report into the tragedy in Monageer, in which a young man appears to have killed his wife and children, and then taken his own life, is in my opinion a travesty of what a report of this type should be. The word whitewash springs immediately to mind. In what has become symptomatic of this administration it seems that no one is to blame, no one could have known what was about to happen, so therefore no one can be held accountable.
How can a report of this type ever hope to accomplish anything when the team responsible for its creation start off by telling us that they had “endeavoured not to attribute fault to or comment adversely on any individual”. What is the point of a report into a tragedy like this if the team start with the premise that no one is going to be found guilty of not doing their job properly. From what I can see the only people found in any way culpable are the Gardai, and yet only the Gardai seem to have taken any interest over the weekend in question. Despite the fact that the Gardai attempted to get the HSE involved during the weekend the professionals in the HSE couldn’t be bothered to get involved until the Monday, by which time the family were dead. Given this I find it deeply unfair to hold the Gardai involved up for criticism.
How are we meant to learn anything to prevent future tragedies when no one is to blame for anything? If this was indeed true then why waste money even setting up an enquiry and waiting for a report. When you read that none of the so called professionals is even named the whole thing just seems farcical. Why is this blanket of anonymity extended to the very people whose role and actions are under scrutiny? The report even goes as far as to apologise for the fact that some people might be able to work out the identities of some of the people involved, How are we to implement the recommendations of the report when loads of them have been blanked out?
If the report found that HSE staff or others were not doing the job they were paid to do, even if this was not entirely of their own making, then we deserve and need to know. If the authors of the report felt that some things would have to change in the future, then again we deserve and need to know. It really is hard not to treat the whole exercise as a whitewash behind which the HSE can hide. The Taoiseach has said that the findings were blacked out on legal advice and that there was nothing the Government could do about it and yet in the past this problem has been overcome by using Privilege to read the report out in the Dail. I don’t believe the Government, or its legal advisors, could have been unaware of this so why wasn’t this facility availed of? Did they really think that no one was going to complain or have they just gotten to the stage where they really don’t give a fiddlers?
More proof of the incompetence of the HSE, as if any more was needed, surfaced last week. Head man, Brendan Drumm, admitted that he was partly responsible for a major blunder after negotiating a new contract for hospital consultants. Up to this if a patient with private health insurance was admitted to hospital by a consultant the hospital was able to charge the patients insurance for all their costs. It now emerges that if the patient is admitted by a consultant who has taken the new contract to work full time for the public service the hospital will be unable to charge the insurance company as the patient is deemed to be a public patient being admitted by a public consultant. Professor Drumm took some responsibility as, in his own words, he was as central to the negotiations on the new contract as anybody else. He admitted that the HSE is now looking at a potential loss of fifty million euro because of the loophole. What is curious, and not a little troubling, is that the Irish Hospital Consultants Association has publicly stated that they foresaw this loophole during contract talks over a year ago and had brought it to the attention of the HSE team. Professor Drumm denies this and says they foresaw a different problem but will not tell us what the other problem was. If I am reading this correctly then Professor Drumm is calling the consultants association liars, which does not sound terribly professional. If this is indeed his position he should tell us what the other problem was and let us make up our own minds. Bad and all as this is it actually got worse. The Minister for Health, Mary Harney, has insisted that this is neither a loophole or a blunder. It is , she says, actually deliberate Government policy. This I find strange for a number of reasons. Is she calling Professor Drumm a liar? Is she seriously trying to tell us that in these financially straitened times it is Government policy to cause the HSE a loss of fifty million euro? The Minister has qualified her comments and says that she wants to remove any financial incentive for a public hospital to treat a private patient. She is of the opinion that people with private health insurance were for too long given preferential treatment and the taxpayer should no longer be funding this. Is it not obvious to the Minister that the days when people on private insurance took precedence are long gone? The current third world system is incapable of treating patients whether they have insurance or not. Has it slipped the Ministers tiny mind that most people with private insurance are taxpayers? As the person with oversight for one of the largest insurers, VHI, I am sure she is well aware of just how much the private insurers are propping up the HSE. Does she want us all to give up our insurance and become public patients? Given the current level of service this would cause an unmitigated disaster and the Minister is well aware of this. From what I can read into the whole sorry situation the Ministers officials have once again partaken of a glorious cock up and rather than put her hand up and admit to the blunder she is deliberately putting her own spin on the whole mess in the hope that it will all go away. In a war of words between Mary Harney on one side, and Professor Drumm and the consultants on the other, I know who I believe.
I was absolutely delighted to hear that Minister Hanafin was absolutely delighted to find that job losses in the private sector are now running at only a hundred a day. Perhaps if the public services matched the private sector pain we would all get out of the mess a bit quicker.
All for now. Mike Edmonds. May 09.
Ballymore Eustace
Community Development Association Ltd
The recent raffle to fund Tidy Town’s projects was a great success and a cheque for €2000 was handed over to Mr. Eric Firth of the Tidy Town’s committee at our recent meeting. We must thank most sincerely the following who very generously sponsored or supplied our prizes:
Mr. Willie Doyle, Newbridge Cutlery who donated €500
Mr. Tom O’Keefe – Naas Insurance
Punchestown Racecourse
Bill Delaney
Mary Deegan
Kildare Betting
The Thatch
Ballymore Inn
Poulaphouca Hotel
Kieran Langan
Rose B. O’Donoghue
Ardenode Hotel
Costcutters
Gallery & Gifts
Gerry Blake
Fogarty’s Quik Pick
Elizabeth’s Hair Salon
Pat Murphy Pub
Ollie Deegan
Mick Murphy’s Pub
Kay Nolan
We would also like to thank all the ticket sellers for their Trojan work – well done! And all those who supported our raffle by buying tickets – “Go raibh mile maith agat!”
The Winners are as follows:
Bill Delaney
Tony Lehart
Henry Murphy
Pat & Mary Browne
Edwina Deegan
Ethna Miley
Ailish Massey
Aoife Ablett
Gus Kavanagh
A.Doyle, Poulaphouca
Michael Gill
Brendan Nolan
Mary Chalkey
Niamh Lawless
Mary Murphy
Ally Conroy
Paul Murphy
Finola Dunworth
Paddy Hudson
Breda Hudson
Ben Noone
We also hosted a Children’s Party and Fancy Dress in the Resource Centre. This was a great success and enjoyed by all (young and not so young!) No child went home without a prize! Sincere thanks to Elizabeth of Elizabeth’s Hair Salon for her kind sponsorship of the Fancy Dress and to last year’s Punchestown Festival Committee for their donation towards the party.
Winners of the Fancy Dress were: Kate Gilroy, Eabha Gilroy and Des Horan – see photo attached
- Ballymore Eustace Community Development Association Ltd
Across the bottom of page with two small boxed adverts for Car Boot & Vincent de Paul
Enable Ireland take to the streets of New York!
Marathon to raise monies where it is needed most…
The world’s greatest marathon, the ING New York Marathon is an amazing journey through the streets of New York taking in the 5 boroughs of New York. From Staten Island to Central Park, over 40,000 participants and 2 million spectators will urge you on from the sidelines - crossing the finish line is an incredible and thrilling experience. This year’s marathon takes place on Sunday 1st November. Places are filling up fast for the Enable Ireland tour offered in conjunction with Sports Travel International. If you have ever thought about participating in a Marathon, this is definitely one to seriously consider. As part of the Enable Ireland New York Marathon Tour 09 you receive guaranteed race entry, flights, accommodation, transfers, insurance, transfer to the start line and celebration dinner. Flights are available from Dublin or Shannon on Friday 30th October returning on Wednesday 4th November. For more details and to book your place call Willie Callaghan at 045 846108 or email wcallaghan@enableireland.ie
Car Boot Sale
At Cross & Passion College, Kilcullen on Sunday, 7th June
Gates open for set-up at 9am, sale through to 3pm.
One car space €10:: One van space €15.
Vincent de Paul Shop appeal for all good quality clothes, bric-brac, books etc
Open: 9.30am till 3.30pm Monday to Friday with new opening time on Saturday from 10am till 12pm. Wishing all our friends and customers a great Summer!
on passing by- again
I am really beginning to wonder if this Government and the HSE are so fatally flawed that they are unable to get anything at all done properly. The recent report into the tragedy in Monageer, in which a young man appears to have killed his wife and children, and then taken his own life, is in my opinion a travesty of what a report of this type should be. The word whitewash springs immediately to mind. In what has become symptomatic of this administration it seems that no one is to blame, no one could have known what was about to happen, so therefore no one can be held accountable.
How can a report of this type ever hope to accomplish anything when the team responsible for its creation start off by telling us that they had “endeavoured not to attribute fault to or comment adversely on any individual”. What is the point of a report into a tragedy like this if the team start with the premise that no one is going to be found guilty of not doing their job properly. From what I can see the only people found in any way culpable are the Gardai, and yet only the Gardai seem to have taken any interest over the weekend in question. Despite the fact that the Gardai attempted to get the HSE involved during the weekend the professionals in the HSE couldn’t be bothered to get involved until the Monday, by which time the family were dead. Given this I find it deeply unfair to hold the Gardai involved up for criticism.
How are we meant to learn anything to prevent future tragedies when no one is to blame for anything? If this was indeed true then why waste money even setting up an enquiry and waiting for a report. When you read that none of the so called professionals is even named the whole thing just seems farcical. Why is this blanket of anonymity extended to the very people whose role and actions are under scrutiny? The report even goes as far as to apologise for the fact that some people might be able to work out the identities of some of the people involved, How are we to implement the recommendations of the report when loads of them have been blanked out?
If the report found that HSE staff or others were not doing the job they were paid to do, even if this was not entirely of their own making, then we deserve and need to know. If the authors of the report felt that some things would have to change in the future, then again we deserve and need to know. It really is hard not to treat the whole exercise as a whitewash behind which the HSE can hide. The Taoiseach has said that the findings were blacked out on legal advice and that there was nothing the Government could do about it and yet in the past this problem has been overcome by using Privilege to read the report out in the Dail. I don’t believe the Government, or its legal advisors, could have been unaware of this so why wasn’t this facility availed of? Did they really think that no one was going to complain or have they just gotten to the stage where they really don’t give a fiddlers?
More proof of the incompetence of the HSE, as if any more was needed, surfaced last week. Head man, Brendan Drumm, admitted that he was partly responsible for a major blunder after negotiating a new contract for hospital consultants. Up to this if a patient with private health insurance was admitted to hospital by a consultant the hospital was able to charge the patients insurance for all their costs. It now emerges that if the patient is admitted by a consultant who has taken the new contract to work full time for the public service the hospital will be unable to charge the insurance company as the patient is deemed to be a public patient being admitted by a public consultant. Professor Drumm took some responsibility as, in his own words, he was as central to the negotiations on the new contract as anybody else. He admitted that the HSE is now looking at a potential loss of fifty million euro because of the loophole. What is curious, and not a little troubling, is that the Irish Hospital Consultants Association has publicly stated that they foresaw this loophole during contract talks over a year ago and had brought it to the attention of the HSE team. Professor Drumm denies this and says they foresaw a different problem but will not tell us what the other problem was. If I am reading this correctly then Professor Drumm is calling the consultants association liars, which does not sound terribly professional. If this is indeed his position he should tell us what the other problem was and let us make up our own minds. Bad and all as this is it actually got worse. The Minister for Health, Mary Harney, has insisted that this is neither a loophole or a blunder. It is , she says, actually deliberate Government policy. This I find strange for a number of reasons. Is she calling Professor Drumm a liar? Is she seriously trying to tell us that in these financially straitened times it is Government policy to cause the HSE a loss of fifty million euro? The Minister has qualified her comments and says that she wants to remove any financial incentive for a public hospital to treat a private patient. She is of the opinion that people with private health insurance were for too long given preferential treatment and the taxpayer should no longer be funding this. Is it not obvious to the Minister that the days when people on private insurance took precedence are long gone? The current third world system is incapable of treating patients whether they have insurance or not. Has it slipped the Ministers tiny mind that most people with private insurance are taxpayers? As the person with oversight for one of the largest insurers, VHI, I am sure she is well aware of just how much the private insurers are propping up the HSE. Does she want us all to give up our insurance and become public patients? Given the current level of service this would cause an unmitigated disaster and the Minister is well aware of this. From what I can read into the whole sorry situation the Ministers officials have once again partaken of a glorious cock up and rather than put her hand up and admit to the blunder she is deliberately putting her own spin on the whole mess in the hope that it will all go away. In a war of words between Mary Harney on one side, and Professor Drumm and the consultants on the other, I know who I believe.
I was absolutely delighted to hear that Minister Hanafin was absolutely delighted to find that job losses in the private sector are now running at only a hundred a day. Perhaps if the public services matched the private sector pain we would all get out of the mess a bit quicker.
All for now. Mike Edmonds. May 09.
A GOOD READ
April was a month of two Sebastians and two really excellent novels. I had been longing to read “The Secret Scripture” by Sebastian Barry (Paperback : Faber and Faber: 9.35) for ages and it has certainly been a stayer at the top of the bestsellers list. With its elegiac biblical reference the book tells the story of a Mary Magdalene style heroine, who is recounting her life at the age of one hundred, from the bleak room of the institution in which she has spent most of her adult life.
Roseanne Clear entitles her narrative as a “testimony of herself”, with the reference to “scripture” in the title also outlining the fact that she wants to tell the truth of her tragic life story. Set in the west of Ireland the novel evokes the Sligo of the war years and caricatures the power of the church in the form of the ubiquitous parish priest: Father Gaunt. Barry is excellent at portraying family relationships and the interactions between Roseanne and her father are beautifully drawn.
Interspersed with Roseanne’s testimony is an account from the other side of the institutional divide as her psychiatrist outlines the steps he is charged with in order to close the hospital down. Dr Greene is a sympathetic character, although it takes longer to warm to him than it does to the enigmatic Roseanne. We slowly learn more about the mutual dependence in their relationship, as the doctor faces truths of his own, and the unravelling of his marriage. The plot is superb and I won’t spoil it by telling you any more. It is a deeply moving book – it seems to represent a place where history and memory meet and find a kind of redemption. It was one of my favourites so far this year and lots of people seem to have it so you should be able to borrow it from a friend!
I went back to my other favourite Seb- reading “On Green Dolphin Street” , by Sebastian Faulks (Paperback:Vintage;10.00). In complete contrast to the last novel, this is set in Washington and New York during Kennedy’s rise to power in the Democratic Party and subsequently in the presidential elections. It tells the story of Mary, the wife of a British diplomat Charlie, who is gradually going off the rails through alcohol and tranquilliser abuse. Although we get to know the whole family including Mary’s children and her parents the novel is very much about Mary.
When journalist Frank Renzo comes into Mary’s life unexpectedly it throws her hitherto very balanced emotions into turmoil. Faulks is excellent at providing insights into the inner world of his heroine- I have only seen him telling male stories before so I was duly impressed. As we watch the development of the bond between Frank and Mary it is heartbreaking to bear witness to the anguish she suffers when trying to decide where her loyalties lie.
On a separate level the story is also rich in historical detail of a very interesting phase in American history and the moral context in which the main characters are actors is very acutely situated in the heady days of the late sixties. This book has to rate as another favourite by Faulks and is a tribute to his versatility- no matter what he turns his attention to his work is always original and unpredictable.
Angie Thompson
Scoil Mhuire NewsMay 5th was a very special day for Scoil Mhuire as we celebrated our first Polish celebration day! Polish pupils Wiktoria Natanek, Kaja Natanek and Kacper Tania joined Scoil Mhuire in September 2006. As they had almost no English, they attended special language tuition in school with Martina Byrne since their arrival here. On Polish celebration day they displayed and presented projects all about their native country of Poland and they have fluent English and very good Irish now. They did a wonderful job on the day with the result that everyone wants to go to Poland on holiday now. Their parents were also very much involved in the day of celebration and provided wonderful supplies of Polish food and drink, including Meats, soup, cheeses and Polish toffee. Well done to all involved. Comhghairdeas to our gallant boys' hurling team and their trainer Martin Kelleher who has qualified for their very first hurling final ever! We're not sure if it's just a first for the school or maybe even a first for G.A.A. in Ballymore? The boys have beaten off most opposition and qualified for the final by beating Scoil Ui Riada, Maynooth in Naas on May 13th. Two early first half goals sealed the victory and the final will be played against Straffan on May 21st in Moorefield. We have the wonderful opportunity of availing the services of Chris from the Phillipines to coach the pupils in basketball this month. Chris, who is an international basketball player for his country, has caused great excitement since his arrival and he has great patience in combining teaching the skills of the game with organising matches.Scoil Mhuire applied for a grant to upgrade the school carpark and increase the size of the footpath in line with increased enrolment. This project was suspended last year but we have got the green light to go ahead this year and work should commence during the summer holidays which will enhance safety for all.(
April was a month of two Sebastians and two really excellent novels. I had been longing to read “The Secret Scripture” by Sebastian Barry (Paperback : Faber and Faber: 9.35) for ages and it has certainly been a stayer at the top of the bestsellers list. With its elegiac biblical reference the book tells the story of a Mary Magdalene style heroine, who is recounting her life at the age of one hundred, from the bleak room of the institution in which she has spent most of her adult life.
Roseanne Clear entitles her narrative as a “testimony of herself”, with the reference to “scripture” in the title also outlining the fact that she wants to tell the truth of her tragic life story. Set in the west of Ireland the novel evokes the Sligo of the war years and caricatures the power of the church in the form of the ubiquitous parish priest: Father Gaunt. Barry is excellent at portraying family relationships and the interactions between Roseanne and her father are beautifully drawn.
Interspersed with Roseanne’s testimony is an account from the other side of the institutional divide as her psychiatrist outlines the steps he is charged with in order to close the hospital down. Dr Greene is a sympathetic character, although it takes longer to warm to him than it does to the enigmatic Roseanne. We slowly learn more about the mutual dependence in their relationship, as the doctor faces truths of his own, and the unravelling of his marriage. The plot is superb and I won’t spoil it by telling you any more. It is a deeply moving book – it seems to represent a place where history and memory meet and find a kind of redemption. It was one of my favourites so far this year and lots of people seem to have it so you should be able to borrow it from a friend!
I went back to my other favourite Seb- reading “On Green Dolphin Street” , by Sebastian Faulks (Paperback:Vintage;10.00). In complete contrast to the last novel, this is set in Washington and New York during Kennedy’s rise to power in the Democratic Party and subsequently in the presidential elections. It tells the story of Mary, the wife of a British diplomat Charlie, who is gradually going off the rails through alcohol and tranquilliser abuse. Although we get to know the whole family including Mary’s children and her parents the novel is very much about Mary.
When journalist Frank Renzo comes into Mary’s life unexpectedly it throws her hitherto very balanced emotions into turmoil. Faulks is excellent at providing insights into the inner world of his heroine- I have only seen him telling male stories before so I was duly impressed. As we watch the development of the bond between Frank and Mary it is heartbreaking to bear witness to the anguish she suffers when trying to decide where her loyalties lie.
On a separate level the story is also rich in historical detail of a very interesting phase in American history and the moral context in which the main characters are actors is very acutely situated in the heady days of the late sixties. This book has to rate as another favourite by Faulks and is a tribute to his versatility- no matter what he turns his attention to his work is always original and unpredictable.
Angie Thompson
Scoil Mhuire NewsMay 5th was a very special day for Scoil Mhuire as we celebrated our first Polish celebration day! Polish pupils Wiktoria Natanek, Kaja Natanek and Kacper Tania joined Scoil Mhuire in September 2006. As they had almost no English, they attended special language tuition in school with Martina Byrne since their arrival here. On Polish celebration day they displayed and presented projects all about their native country of Poland and they have fluent English and very good Irish now. They did a wonderful job on the day with the result that everyone wants to go to Poland on holiday now. Their parents were also very much involved in the day of celebration and provided wonderful supplies of Polish food and drink, including Meats, soup, cheeses and Polish toffee. Well done to all involved. Comhghairdeas to our gallant boys' hurling team and their trainer Martin Kelleher who has qualified for their very first hurling final ever! We're not sure if it's just a first for the school or maybe even a first for G.A.A. in Ballymore? The boys have beaten off most opposition and qualified for the final by beating Scoil Ui Riada, Maynooth in Naas on May 13th. Two early first half goals sealed the victory and the final will be played against Straffan on May 21st in Moorefield. We have the wonderful opportunity of availing the services of Chris from the Phillipines to coach the pupils in basketball this month. Chris, who is an international basketball player for his country, has caused great excitement since his arrival and he has great patience in combining teaching the skills of the game with organising matches.Scoil Mhuire applied for a grant to upgrade the school carpark and increase the size of the footpath in line with increased enrolment. This project was suspended last year but we have got the green light to go ahead this year and work should commence during the summer holidays which will enhance safety for all.(
Great Expectations!
I couldn’t believe me eyes or ears. There he was for all to see on the Late Late Show (24th April) telling us the realities of being in government, and what government is about in this little country of ours. He wasn’t telling us anything that we didn’t know already, but to have it confirmed in public by someone on the inside has got to be a first. Just in case my eyes and ears were deceiving me I bought a newspaper next day to read if it was for real; the newspaper confirmed all. I’m speaking of the dismissed Minister of State John McGuinness, and wish him well in whatever new career he may now pursue, for his political one is surely at an end unless he wants to start up in opposition, which mightn’t be a bad thing. The newspapers say that some backbenchers in Fianna Fáile have expressed support for Mr McGuiness’s stance; well all they’ve got to do is speak out like him and he’s on his way to forming his party, but I won’t be holding my breath. He could call it the Transparency Party! Basically, he was saying that government should be for the country and not for the party in power at any given time. While he was at it he had a go at the Tánaiste Mary Coughlan telling her to get a grip, for apparently they had frequent clashes over policies in the Department for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment. He did say that she was successful as Minister for Agriculture. Now that all depends on where you’re coming from. Nowadays, major decisions in agriculture are made in Brussels, so all she had to do was pass on the information and that she did with style, mouthful after mouthful!
So how is the present crowd shaping up to recession times? To early to predict I’d say but time is not on their side and whatever ‘great plan’ they come up with had better be good. It’s time for strategic decisions and not aspirational ones. Just cast your minds back and think of all the decisions taken that might have been good if politics had been put to one side to the betterment of the country at large. A classic example was decentralisation; the plan to spread the wealth and population around the country. The idea was good but the implementation poor, for decentralisation where it did take place ended up in the bailiwick of some politician, and not necessary where it was most needed. I don’t have to spell it for you, do I? Do you mind the time when the e-voting machines were introduced? The greatest invention since sliced pan we were informed at the time by the Minister in charge and cheap at half the price. They ended up in storage costing the public millions in rent. The voting machines aren’t the only ones that should be in storage! Recently, three government jets were sold for a paltry few thousands; the purchaser on resale turned them into millions. As I write the social partnership is having a wobble. Some months ago I wrote that it was another good idea so long as we were on the up and up, but when times get tough the going gets rough! Plan A was great, but did nobody think of a Plan B to fall back on should things take a turn for the worst. People in business for themselves, know that it is prudent to make provision for the rainy day, they also know the perils of having all the eggs in one basket. This government has had only one basket, which is a basket case at the moment. Tax breaks and incentives and ‘development finance’, a fancy name for irresponsible lending, was heaped upon the development and building industry which has now come to a halt and no Plan B in sight.
Down through the years we the voting public have had it up to the back teeth with aspirational politics. The draining of the Shannon used to be dragged up at every election years ago; now it never gets a mention, and the younger generation have probably never heard of it. A united Ireland was another one. The shops in Newry and Enniskillen are not complaining about the monetary union we have established there, but that’s as far as it goes! The restoration of the Irish language is another aspiration that has cost us millions and continuing to do so, but it hasn’t added much to our well been. Languages were my favourite subjects at school and Irish was top of the list. The only class prize I ever got was for my knowledge of Irish but now if I want to communicate with my fellow man or woman in my native tongue I may up stakes and go live in a gaeltacht area, and the only way one can earn a living by its use is to become a teacher. Economics will always beat aspiration.
What the electorate want is a government with strategic policies. Its time to get rid of cronyism; the wink an’ nod, stroke pulling, parish pump policies, whose sole purpose is to get re-elected come election time. But how do we go about changing the ‘mind set’ of our politicians? It’s a sixty four thousand dollar question and I for one don’t have a ready answer. How do we go about changing the ‘mind set’ of the electorate? We’re a small country and all have a forty first cousin or some connection within the political system and are not backward about coming forward when wanting a favour done. Somehow or other we have to leave 20th century way of thinking behind us and get into the 21st This won’t be achieved by ol’codgers of my vintage, so its up to the younger crowd who we hope will have the vision and courage to make the necessary changes, without throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
We need more politicians with the calibre and forthrightness of John McGuinness; then and then only will our expectations come to fruition. Yrs Jeffers.
The Late Bill Lawlor RIP
Ballymore Eustace and Hollywood Chronicle - 1953
The death occurred of Bill (William) Lawlor of Ballymore Eustace on April 17, 2009 R.I.P. Bill was 87 years of age. His sister Maureen (Burke), brother Myles, good friend Harry (Deegan), sister-in-law Kathleen, nephew, grandnephews, grandnieces and relatives survive Bill. Bill is interred in St John’s Cemetery (The Old Cemetery).
By winning two All-Ireland junior titles in 1953, Bill became our first player to win two junior titles under IAHA Rules. He teamed up with Paddy Monaghan to win the All-Ireland junior hard doubles title. At that time, Bill was about 32 years of age while Paddy was 24.
In 1978, when Mickey Dowling (Senior) died Bill succeeded him as the doyen of our handball scene. This honour now rests with Bobbie Grattan who lives near Athy.
Bill helped with the raising of the walls of the 60 by 30 alley in 1953. Their opponents in the final were from Limerick and sadly all four players are now gone to their eternal reward. At the height of his powers, Bill suffered a broken leg that put an end to his playing days.
Bill has also had success as a trainer and owner of greyhounds. Two names that come to mind are Brave Edna and Tantalus. In 1974, Bill kindly donated "The Brave Edna Cup" for a league competition to be run by the Athletic Club. Bill was responsible for my first visit to see greyhounds in action. This was a visit to Harold’s Cross and subsequently I went to Shelbourne Park – again thanks to Bill having a runner there.
My brother James kindly gave me a lift to Bill’s Funeral Mass. Others I saw present were Bobbie Grattan, Eddie and Mai Whelan, Tommy and Eamonn Deegan, Anne Tipper (nee Deegan), Kevin Burke, Kevin Keenan, Peter McGuire, The Headon sisters, Noel and Bridget Headon, Pat Quinn, Mary Campbell and Kathleen Lawlor (nee Doyle).
Handballers Billy Doran and Martin Deegan helped carry Bill’s coffin. Fr Jimmy Kelly was the celebrant at the Funeral Mass. I did not know the singer or her accompanying guitarist but that said, they were a credit to the late Bill.
Outside the Church I met Maria Wolfe, John Murphy and Madge Tyrrell (nee Nugent). I had not seen Madge in a long, long time. Madge is the last surviving member of the late Joe Nugent’s family and now lives in Blessington.
Bill lived at Ivy House just below the New Band Hall. I gather Ivy House was acquired by Bill’s late father in 1907, his father also lived to a great age (early ‘90s) and was cared for by his daughter-in-law Kathleen and friend, Harry Deegan over a long period of time. Myles (Junior) lives in a house on the Poulaphouca Road previously owned by Miss Wills while Maureen lives at Lacken.
The late Bill Lawlor, John Joe O’Keeffe, Harry Deegan and Mary Murphy with Witch’s Son, Brave Edna
and Mary Murphy’s ’Last Pick’ (Ballymore Eustace and Hollywood Chronicle – 1972)
© Matt Purcell (April 20, 2009).
COMMUNITY GAMES RESULTS
There was a great turnout for the local Community Games Finals field and track events which were held at the football pitch on Friday, 8 May. Even a torrential hail downpour at one stage couldn’t dampen the spirits of the eager young competitors who ranged in age from 5 to 13. There was something to suit every individual - from hurdles to shot put to ball throw and long jump, with everyone gung-ho to try their hand at as many events as possible. A huge round of applause to all who competed – well done to each and everyone of you and many thanks to Jarlath Gilroy, Steve Deegan, Janet Deegan, Eithne Carter and any committee members and members of the public who helped ensure the evening ran smoothly .
Results were as follows:-
Girls1,2.3
U-8 60m Zoe Fanning, Eabha Gilroy, Roisin Murphy
U-8 80m Ava O'Connor, Isabel Keenahan, Molly McNally
U-10 60m Hurdles Orla Murphy,Caoimhe Winder, Katie Gilroy
U-10 100m Orla Murphy, Niamh Winder, Caoimhe Winder
U-10 200m Niamh Winder, Katie Gilroy, Orla Murphy
U-12 100m Amy Horan, Oonagh Deegan, Ciara Fennin
U-12 600m Oonagh Deegan, Ellen Carter, Evie Carter
U-14 100m Amy Mahon, Coady Bean, Shannon Doyle
U-14 800m Amy Mahon, Coady Bean, Shannon Browne
U-16 100m Marie Clarke
U-12 Ball Throw Amy Horan, Ciara Fennin, Rachel Fanning
U-14 Shot Putt Margaret Headon, Shannon Browne, Amy Mahon
U-14 Long Jump Amy Mahon, Shannon Browne, Coady Behan
Results Boys123
U-8 60mTadhg Barrett, Daragh Gilroy, Johathan Browne
U-8 80m Brian Crowe, Jack Sammon, Eoin Clarke
U-10 60m Hurdles Luke Maguire, Kevin Kelleher, Daragh Clarke
U-10 100m Stephen Davis, Thomas Byrne, Jack Keenehan
U-10 200m Mark Barrett, Aaron Deegan, Conor Gilroy
U-12 100m Kevin Pat Clarke, Tom Carter, Sean Murphy
U-14 100m Tom Murphy, Daragh Kelleher, Shane Barrett
U-14 800m Tom Murphy, Shane Barrett, Daragh Kelleher
U-12 Ball Throw Sean Murphy, Kevin Pat Clarke, Tom Carter
U-14 Shot Putt Tom Murphy, Darragh Kelleher, Declan Davis
U-14 Long Jump Darragh Kelleher, Tom Murphy, Patrick Murphy
The County Finals will be held in Newbridge on Friday evening and Saturday, 5th and 6th June and in the meantime, athletics training continues at the football pitch on Tuesday and Thursdays from 6.30-7.30pm. It’s a joy to see so many children running their hearts out at these sessions, not to mention the health benefits!
Swimming Finals will be held in Athy on Saturday, 13th June from 3-7pm. Can anyone interested in competing please contact either Jarlath Gilroy (087-6786127), Eithne Carter (087 9170403) or Ann Murphy (087 1388568) to register. Transport can be organised for anyone who may need it.
Best of luck to everyone competing in the County Finals!
I couldn’t believe me eyes or ears. There he was for all to see on the Late Late Show (24th April) telling us the realities of being in government, and what government is about in this little country of ours. He wasn’t telling us anything that we didn’t know already, but to have it confirmed in public by someone on the inside has got to be a first. Just in case my eyes and ears were deceiving me I bought a newspaper next day to read if it was for real; the newspaper confirmed all. I’m speaking of the dismissed Minister of State John McGuinness, and wish him well in whatever new career he may now pursue, for his political one is surely at an end unless he wants to start up in opposition, which mightn’t be a bad thing. The newspapers say that some backbenchers in Fianna Fáile have expressed support for Mr McGuiness’s stance; well all they’ve got to do is speak out like him and he’s on his way to forming his party, but I won’t be holding my breath. He could call it the Transparency Party! Basically, he was saying that government should be for the country and not for the party in power at any given time. While he was at it he had a go at the Tánaiste Mary Coughlan telling her to get a grip, for apparently they had frequent clashes over policies in the Department for Enterprise, Trade, and Employment. He did say that she was successful as Minister for Agriculture. Now that all depends on where you’re coming from. Nowadays, major decisions in agriculture are made in Brussels, so all she had to do was pass on the information and that she did with style, mouthful after mouthful!
So how is the present crowd shaping up to recession times? To early to predict I’d say but time is not on their side and whatever ‘great plan’ they come up with had better be good. It’s time for strategic decisions and not aspirational ones. Just cast your minds back and think of all the decisions taken that might have been good if politics had been put to one side to the betterment of the country at large. A classic example was decentralisation; the plan to spread the wealth and population around the country. The idea was good but the implementation poor, for decentralisation where it did take place ended up in the bailiwick of some politician, and not necessary where it was most needed. I don’t have to spell it for you, do I? Do you mind the time when the e-voting machines were introduced? The greatest invention since sliced pan we were informed at the time by the Minister in charge and cheap at half the price. They ended up in storage costing the public millions in rent. The voting machines aren’t the only ones that should be in storage! Recently, three government jets were sold for a paltry few thousands; the purchaser on resale turned them into millions. As I write the social partnership is having a wobble. Some months ago I wrote that it was another good idea so long as we were on the up and up, but when times get tough the going gets rough! Plan A was great, but did nobody think of a Plan B to fall back on should things take a turn for the worst. People in business for themselves, know that it is prudent to make provision for the rainy day, they also know the perils of having all the eggs in one basket. This government has had only one basket, which is a basket case at the moment. Tax breaks and incentives and ‘development finance’, a fancy name for irresponsible lending, was heaped upon the development and building industry which has now come to a halt and no Plan B in sight.
Down through the years we the voting public have had it up to the back teeth with aspirational politics. The draining of the Shannon used to be dragged up at every election years ago; now it never gets a mention, and the younger generation have probably never heard of it. A united Ireland was another one. The shops in Newry and Enniskillen are not complaining about the monetary union we have established there, but that’s as far as it goes! The restoration of the Irish language is another aspiration that has cost us millions and continuing to do so, but it hasn’t added much to our well been. Languages were my favourite subjects at school and Irish was top of the list. The only class prize I ever got was for my knowledge of Irish but now if I want to communicate with my fellow man or woman in my native tongue I may up stakes and go live in a gaeltacht area, and the only way one can earn a living by its use is to become a teacher. Economics will always beat aspiration.
What the electorate want is a government with strategic policies. Its time to get rid of cronyism; the wink an’ nod, stroke pulling, parish pump policies, whose sole purpose is to get re-elected come election time. But how do we go about changing the ‘mind set’ of our politicians? It’s a sixty four thousand dollar question and I for one don’t have a ready answer. How do we go about changing the ‘mind set’ of the electorate? We’re a small country and all have a forty first cousin or some connection within the political system and are not backward about coming forward when wanting a favour done. Somehow or other we have to leave 20th century way of thinking behind us and get into the 21st This won’t be achieved by ol’codgers of my vintage, so its up to the younger crowd who we hope will have the vision and courage to make the necessary changes, without throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
We need more politicians with the calibre and forthrightness of John McGuinness; then and then only will our expectations come to fruition. Yrs Jeffers.
The Late Bill Lawlor RIP
Ballymore Eustace and Hollywood Chronicle - 1953
The death occurred of Bill (William) Lawlor of Ballymore Eustace on April 17, 2009 R.I.P. Bill was 87 years of age. His sister Maureen (Burke), brother Myles, good friend Harry (Deegan), sister-in-law Kathleen, nephew, grandnephews, grandnieces and relatives survive Bill. Bill is interred in St John’s Cemetery (The Old Cemetery).
By winning two All-Ireland junior titles in 1953, Bill became our first player to win two junior titles under IAHA Rules. He teamed up with Paddy Monaghan to win the All-Ireland junior hard doubles title. At that time, Bill was about 32 years of age while Paddy was 24.
In 1978, when Mickey Dowling (Senior) died Bill succeeded him as the doyen of our handball scene. This honour now rests with Bobbie Grattan who lives near Athy.
Bill helped with the raising of the walls of the 60 by 30 alley in 1953. Their opponents in the final were from Limerick and sadly all four players are now gone to their eternal reward. At the height of his powers, Bill suffered a broken leg that put an end to his playing days.
Bill has also had success as a trainer and owner of greyhounds. Two names that come to mind are Brave Edna and Tantalus. In 1974, Bill kindly donated "The Brave Edna Cup" for a league competition to be run by the Athletic Club. Bill was responsible for my first visit to see greyhounds in action. This was a visit to Harold’s Cross and subsequently I went to Shelbourne Park – again thanks to Bill having a runner there.
My brother James kindly gave me a lift to Bill’s Funeral Mass. Others I saw present were Bobbie Grattan, Eddie and Mai Whelan, Tommy and Eamonn Deegan, Anne Tipper (nee Deegan), Kevin Burke, Kevin Keenan, Peter McGuire, The Headon sisters, Noel and Bridget Headon, Pat Quinn, Mary Campbell and Kathleen Lawlor (nee Doyle).
Handballers Billy Doran and Martin Deegan helped carry Bill’s coffin. Fr Jimmy Kelly was the celebrant at the Funeral Mass. I did not know the singer or her accompanying guitarist but that said, they were a credit to the late Bill.
Outside the Church I met Maria Wolfe, John Murphy and Madge Tyrrell (nee Nugent). I had not seen Madge in a long, long time. Madge is the last surviving member of the late Joe Nugent’s family and now lives in Blessington.
Bill lived at Ivy House just below the New Band Hall. I gather Ivy House was acquired by Bill’s late father in 1907, his father also lived to a great age (early ‘90s) and was cared for by his daughter-in-law Kathleen and friend, Harry Deegan over a long period of time. Myles (Junior) lives in a house on the Poulaphouca Road previously owned by Miss Wills while Maureen lives at Lacken.
The late Bill Lawlor, John Joe O’Keeffe, Harry Deegan and Mary Murphy with Witch’s Son, Brave Edna
and Mary Murphy’s ’Last Pick’ (Ballymore Eustace and Hollywood Chronicle – 1972)
© Matt Purcell (April 20, 2009).
COMMUNITY GAMES RESULTS
There was a great turnout for the local Community Games Finals field and track events which were held at the football pitch on Friday, 8 May. Even a torrential hail downpour at one stage couldn’t dampen the spirits of the eager young competitors who ranged in age from 5 to 13. There was something to suit every individual - from hurdles to shot put to ball throw and long jump, with everyone gung-ho to try their hand at as many events as possible. A huge round of applause to all who competed – well done to each and everyone of you and many thanks to Jarlath Gilroy, Steve Deegan, Janet Deegan, Eithne Carter and any committee members and members of the public who helped ensure the evening ran smoothly .
Results were as follows:-
Girls1,2.3
U-8 60m Zoe Fanning, Eabha Gilroy, Roisin Murphy
U-8 80m Ava O'Connor, Isabel Keenahan, Molly McNally
U-10 60m Hurdles Orla Murphy,Caoimhe Winder, Katie Gilroy
U-10 100m Orla Murphy, Niamh Winder, Caoimhe Winder
U-10 200m Niamh Winder, Katie Gilroy, Orla Murphy
U-12 100m Amy Horan, Oonagh Deegan, Ciara Fennin
U-12 600m Oonagh Deegan, Ellen Carter, Evie Carter
U-14 100m Amy Mahon, Coady Bean, Shannon Doyle
U-14 800m Amy Mahon, Coady Bean, Shannon Browne
U-16 100m Marie Clarke
U-12 Ball Throw Amy Horan, Ciara Fennin, Rachel Fanning
U-14 Shot Putt Margaret Headon, Shannon Browne, Amy Mahon
U-14 Long Jump Amy Mahon, Shannon Browne, Coady Behan
Results Boys123
U-8 60mTadhg Barrett, Daragh Gilroy, Johathan Browne
U-8 80m Brian Crowe, Jack Sammon, Eoin Clarke
U-10 60m Hurdles Luke Maguire, Kevin Kelleher, Daragh Clarke
U-10 100m Stephen Davis, Thomas Byrne, Jack Keenehan
U-10 200m Mark Barrett, Aaron Deegan, Conor Gilroy
U-12 100m Kevin Pat Clarke, Tom Carter, Sean Murphy
U-14 100m Tom Murphy, Daragh Kelleher, Shane Barrett
U-14 800m Tom Murphy, Shane Barrett, Daragh Kelleher
U-12 Ball Throw Sean Murphy, Kevin Pat Clarke, Tom Carter
U-14 Shot Putt Tom Murphy, Darragh Kelleher, Declan Davis
U-14 Long Jump Darragh Kelleher, Tom Murphy, Patrick Murphy
The County Finals will be held in Newbridge on Friday evening and Saturday, 5th and 6th June and in the meantime, athletics training continues at the football pitch on Tuesday and Thursdays from 6.30-7.30pm. It’s a joy to see so many children running their hearts out at these sessions, not to mention the health benefits!
Swimming Finals will be held in Athy on Saturday, 13th June from 3-7pm. Can anyone interested in competing please contact either Jarlath Gilroy (087-6786127), Eithne Carter (087 9170403) or Ann Murphy (087 1388568) to register. Transport can be organised for anyone who may need it.
Best of luck to everyone competing in the County Finals!
PAGE 2
Direct Bugle email -
for acknowledgements, births, anniversaries, wedding photos, birthdays etc, send them to:
or drop them into Notes Box at Fogarty’s Post Office or Elizabeth’s Hair Salon . Come on, we would be delighted to print your family’s special photo – wedding, christening etc.
Birthdays
Happy 6oth Birthday to Kay Kavanagh – my God, doesn’t she look great? Its all the soft livin’ and years of being pampered by Gus……..Great night out in Dora’s during Punches town Week to celebrate the event. Thanks to Lorraine, Dora and Finola; don’t go near Dora O’Brien’s a month either side of a major birthday, she’s a master at organising ‘surprise’ birthdays………
Best wishes to Theresa Lynham who is celebrating her 70th Birthday and she doesn’t look so bad either!
Birthday wishes to Freda McLeod who celebrates a birthday in June…no, it’s not a milestone birthday this yet.
Best wishes
Best wishes to all the children in second class, Scoil Mhuire who are celebrating their First Holy Communion this month – enjoy you day.
Best wishes to Cody Bean who is taking her piano exams this month
Get Well wishes also to Marjorie Ronaldson, Des Kennedy, Anne Murphy, Mick Nolan of Tipperkevin, Mary Carroll, formerly of Broadleas and to Amanda Treacy of Liffey Court.
Thank you
Many thanks to all Dick O Sullivan, Hillary and Janet of Punchestown for the lovely welcome and courtesy they showed family and friends of the Late Fr Sean Breen at Punches town when they were treated like royalty in a private suite, fed and foddered with fond memories of the Padre exchanged over Tuesday’s racing.
IN a small box:
2 Bed House
To Rent
Ballymore Eustace
Fully Furnished
Contact 087 411 5185
In a larger box or a strip across the bottom of page 2:
COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP BALLYMORE-EUSTACE.
Open Day
In the Playgroup (Resource Centre)
On Saturday 6th June.
From 2pm-4pm.
All Parents and children welcome.
In reverse please:
The late Fr. Patrick Joseph Dunne C.S.Sp
We extend our sympathy to Angela Carroll and members of her family on the death of her brother, the late Fr Patrick Dunne who often said mass here in Ballymore when he was visiting on holidays. Late of Clonbullogue, Co. Offaly, Fr Dunne died suddenly in Tullamore Hospital. Having performed his religious duties in Nigeria, Kenya and Ireland, his passing will be deeply regretted by his Spiritan Confreres, his sister Angela, brother Henry, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and many friends. May he rest in peace, amen
The late Patrick John Foley
Well known to the communities of St John’s and St Mary’s of Blessington, the late Patrick Foley of Bishophill will be sadly missed by his many friends and family and none more so than by his wife Hazel, the couple having been married for over 60 years. The Foley family are well known within equestrian circles with his children renowned for their skills in the latter field. John himself was a member of the Kildare Hunt and the founder-owner of Hazel Grove Golf Club at Jobstown. As a business man, he had success with his company Tropical Fruit Co, He is survived by his loving wife Hazel, daughters Jane, Vicky and Georgina, 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and members of the extended family. Patrick was laid to rest in his beloved St John’s – may he rest in peace, amen.
The Late Karl Mullen
Formerly of Gilltown, Kilcullen and late of Tulfarris, Blessing ton, the death of the legendary former rugby player and renowned doctor was covered extensively in the national and local press. Tributes were paid from near and far to him not only for his skill at the game but his astute ability to read the play. He was well loved by all who knew him for his warmth and wit and of course, he was first and foremost a family man. A little over a year ago, his wife Doreen passed away and they are survived by their eight children, daughters Louise, Niamh, Mary, Gaye and Anna, sons Karl, Paul and Marc, sisters, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, eighteen grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a large circle of colleagues and friends. May he rest in peace, amen.
Ballymore Eustace Scoil Mhuire Do It Again For National Spring Clean
Let Us At It!
The Clean Up Team from Scoil Mhuire who cleared the Ballymore streets of litter.
A willing, and enthusiastic group of students from Scoil Mhuire Green School Committee braved the elements to clear the Ballymore streets of litter. On a wet and gloomy day on the last week in April - under the watchful eyes of Martin Deegan, Frankie Burke, David Hughes, and Mary & Eric Firth - they cleared litter from the streets of the village. No discarded can, paper, or other item of rubbish escaped their sharp eyes and quick hands. In the end, they collected many large sacks crammed full with rubbish; and the village looked the better for it – let us hope it stays that way. These young people set a wonderful example to us all. The Green School Committee, which is under the leadership of school head, Mairead O’Flynn, operates a very impressive, well-organised and comprehensive Green School Action Plan, which covers aspects including:
• Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
• The Environment
• Energy Conservation
• Biodiversity
amongst many others, with an emphasis, this year, on energy.
The Green Flag School scheme is a marvellous way of getting people involved and interested in environmental matters at an early age. Scoil Mhuire attained, and has maintained, Green School status over four years ago – a very impressive achievement.
The Clean Up was part of National Spring Clean. Now in its eleventh year, National Spring Clean is Ireland’s biggest anti‑litter campaign; it encourages people from all walks of life to take pride in their local environment and to take action against litter. The event runs throughout the whole month of April.
One lesson learnt from picking up other peoples’ litter is that it is far easier to discard litter without thought than it is to pick it up; but it is so easy to put the litter in a bin, in the first place, or take it home for safe and correct disposal later.
The BME Tidy Towns group will be submitting their entry, on behalf of the village, for the 2009 competition in May. During July and August Ballymore Eustace will be visited unannounced – on two or more occasions – by the Tidy Towns adjudicators. They will be looking at the village with a mind to the following judgement categories:
Overall Developmental Approach
The Built Environment
Landscaping
Wildlife and Natural Amenities
Litter Control
Tidiness
Waste Minimisation
Residential Areas
Roads, Street, and Back Areas
General Impression
Hopefully, we will improve our score this year. Keeping the village free of litter and tidy is a daunting task, but it can be relieved if everybody – residents and visitors alike – do their bit. Please, do not drop litter; place it in the bin or take it home with you. Residents of the village can be a great help, providing they are able, if they maintain the immediate area around their doorstep litter and weed free.
“We did it!” Janet and Denise make a difference….
“Back from our travels and we have successfully participated in the 7th Building Blitz in Mbekweni, in Paarl. 500 volunteers took part in this blitz over 300 of them were women! Our target for the week was to complete 75 houses. We completed 78 homes for 900 beneficiaries living in the township, who were living in shacks. For these families it will be their first time to have a home with running water, electricity and a bathroom all to themselves! It’s a far cry from what they are used to - one toilet per 10-12 shacks. It was with great joy and pride that each of the teams got the opportunity to hand over keys to a family on the day we finished onsite. We were part of the Lilac team (painters) and the lady we handed the keys to was aged 68 years, this being her first home after 30 years on a housing list. Other beneficiaries on the day were a mother of two, an 85 year old woman, both on the housing list for over 30 years.
Our journey began when we left Dublin airport at 10.30am on Thursday morning and arrived in Cape Town @ 5.45am Friday morning. No hanging around, straight from the airport to a township that NMBB (Niall Mellon Building Blitz) had already been involved in. We were not only getting the opportunity first hand to see the shacks these people live in but also the houses that had been built and the families that were now living in them. Next day we started working in earnest.
Our day started at 5.45am when the alarm went off, Janet should have got a medal for how quickly she got out of the bed…. We were on the bus for 7am every morning to take the hour’s journey to a site in Mbekweni. We worked under the hot sun - highest temperate of the week was 41 degrees - something we are definitely not used to! We finished at 5pm each day. I have never seen so many women of all ages pushing wheelbarrows, plastering walls, lifting blocks etc. No job was too hard for us women.
GAA GURU ‘ON THE BALL’
Working alongside the Irish people for the first time also were South African men and women. We also had a special visitor on the trip with us, the legendary Michael O’ Muircheartaigh, a true gentlemen and a great worker - considering he’s 78!! It was such an amazing week to be involved in.
Throughout the week we were taken off site to visit an orphanage, a crèche, school and more ‘living’ quarters ie basic and I mean ‘basic’ shacks. The biggest threat to these families in the shacks is flooding and fires. Before we arrived, nearly 30 shacks had been burnt down after one went on fire. The families live in such close proximity to each other, they are all in imminent danger. Illness also spreads very quickly through the shacks - some of these shacks consist of one room where a family with 10 or more people are living in them - can you imagine it…
PRIDE IN EDUCATION
We met an amazing lady called Miriam who ran the orphanage with the help of her cousin. They look after 25 kids who have been abandoned by their parents or brought to her by the police. She has a 2 bedroom shack to house all these children, yet it was spotless and very well run. The children all go to school everyday, as education and religion is something they are very passionate about. The stories behind the children in the orphanage were heartbreaking.
“We did it!” Janet and Denise make a difference…. Page 2
Many of the children are HIV positive or have full blown aids which they were either born with or were infected through abuse - needless to say there was a lot of tears and sorrow felt that day. 5.5 million people in South Africa are HIV positive or have full blown aids, you can only hope that, through education these numbers will eventually start to decrease - but we can’t be sure this will ever happen in our lifetime.
After a week of toil, backache and heartache, tears of joy and pride rolled down the cheeks of the 500 Volunteers as they handed over their houses to the beneficiary families.
GIRL POWER RECOGNISED!Speaking at the beneficiary handover, Niall Mellon said:
“The week has been a phenomenal success for the charity and it is an honour for me to stand amongst my fellow countrymen and women at such a proud moment. I am especially proud of our female Volunteers who took to painting, block laying and plastering like ducks to water and with enthusiasm like no other. This was the first Building Blitz that we have had a majority of women, it was so successful that I am now concerned for the few male construction workers in Ireland! The quality of work in building these homes has been outstanding and we are very proud to hand over the houses to so many families who so richly deserve them.”During the week, we were visited by Premier of the Western Cape, Lynne Brown, Dr. Alberta Mayberry, US Consul General of the USA, Mayor of Drakenstein, Charmain Manuel and Irish Ambassador to South Africa, Colin Wrafter. In a major coup for the charity, Niall Mellon also announced that the US Senate last week passed legislation directing USAID to consider the Niall Mellon Township Trust for funding. The charity was singled out in an important Appropriations Bill which was passed by the US Senate. Needless to say there was great applause & delight when this was announced on our last night in South Africa.
THANK YOU
On a personal note both Jane and I would like say a BIG THANK EVERYONE to everyone who donated money, sponsored us, helped us with the fundraising events or just gave us a dig out to fundraise this trip. I know there is poverty in every country, our own included but I have never witnessed it at this level. The week was an experience of a lifetime for us, to see the daily things we take for granted - running water, feeling safe in your own home, walls that are not made out of boxes, food to eat everyday - we could go on and on…. Basic necessities we take for granted are pure luxury to these people.
All of YOU made it possible for us to travel to South Africa to help build homes for these people who seem to be forgotten & for that we are forever grateful. It was a very hard week physically & emotionally but we are delighted to have had the opportunity to have been involved & look forward to participating again next year! The memories of this trip will stay with us for life, so THANK YOU. Roll on next year!”
- Denise and Janet
Direct Bugle email -
for acknowledgements, births, anniversaries, wedding photos, birthdays etc, send them to:
or drop them into Notes Box at Fogarty’s Post Office or Elizabeth’s Hair Salon . Come on, we would be delighted to print your family’s special photo – wedding, christening etc.
Birthdays
Happy 6oth Birthday to Kay Kavanagh – my God, doesn’t she look great? Its all the soft livin’ and years of being pampered by Gus……..Great night out in Dora’s during Punches town Week to celebrate the event. Thanks to Lorraine, Dora and Finola; don’t go near Dora O’Brien’s a month either side of a major birthday, she’s a master at organising ‘surprise’ birthdays………
Best wishes to Theresa Lynham who is celebrating her 70th Birthday and she doesn’t look so bad either!
Birthday wishes to Freda McLeod who celebrates a birthday in June…no, it’s not a milestone birthday this yet.
Best wishes
Best wishes to all the children in second class, Scoil Mhuire who are celebrating their First Holy Communion this month – enjoy you day.
Best wishes to Cody Bean who is taking her piano exams this month
Get Well wishes also to Marjorie Ronaldson, Des Kennedy, Anne Murphy, Mick Nolan of Tipperkevin, Mary Carroll, formerly of Broadleas and to Amanda Treacy of Liffey Court.
Thank you
Many thanks to all Dick O Sullivan, Hillary and Janet of Punchestown for the lovely welcome and courtesy they showed family and friends of the Late Fr Sean Breen at Punches town when they were treated like royalty in a private suite, fed and foddered with fond memories of the Padre exchanged over Tuesday’s racing.
IN a small box:
2 Bed House
To Rent
Ballymore Eustace
Fully Furnished
Contact 087 411 5185
In a larger box or a strip across the bottom of page 2:
COMMUNITY PLAYGROUP BALLYMORE-EUSTACE.
Open Day
In the Playgroup (Resource Centre)
On Saturday 6th June.
From 2pm-4pm.
All Parents and children welcome.
In reverse please:
The late Fr. Patrick Joseph Dunne C.S.Sp
We extend our sympathy to Angela Carroll and members of her family on the death of her brother, the late Fr Patrick Dunne who often said mass here in Ballymore when he was visiting on holidays. Late of Clonbullogue, Co. Offaly, Fr Dunne died suddenly in Tullamore Hospital. Having performed his religious duties in Nigeria, Kenya and Ireland, his passing will be deeply regretted by his Spiritan Confreres, his sister Angela, brother Henry, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews and many friends. May he rest in peace, amen
The late Patrick John Foley
Well known to the communities of St John’s and St Mary’s of Blessington, the late Patrick Foley of Bishophill will be sadly missed by his many friends and family and none more so than by his wife Hazel, the couple having been married for over 60 years. The Foley family are well known within equestrian circles with his children renowned for their skills in the latter field. John himself was a member of the Kildare Hunt and the founder-owner of Hazel Grove Golf Club at Jobstown. As a business man, he had success with his company Tropical Fruit Co, He is survived by his loving wife Hazel, daughters Jane, Vicky and Georgina, 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and members of the extended family. Patrick was laid to rest in his beloved St John’s – may he rest in peace, amen.
The Late Karl Mullen
Formerly of Gilltown, Kilcullen and late of Tulfarris, Blessing ton, the death of the legendary former rugby player and renowned doctor was covered extensively in the national and local press. Tributes were paid from near and far to him not only for his skill at the game but his astute ability to read the play. He was well loved by all who knew him for his warmth and wit and of course, he was first and foremost a family man. A little over a year ago, his wife Doreen passed away and they are survived by their eight children, daughters Louise, Niamh, Mary, Gaye and Anna, sons Karl, Paul and Marc, sisters, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, eighteen grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a large circle of colleagues and friends. May he rest in peace, amen.
Ballymore Eustace Scoil Mhuire Do It Again For National Spring Clean
Let Us At It!
The Clean Up Team from Scoil Mhuire who cleared the Ballymore streets of litter.
A willing, and enthusiastic group of students from Scoil Mhuire Green School Committee braved the elements to clear the Ballymore streets of litter. On a wet and gloomy day on the last week in April - under the watchful eyes of Martin Deegan, Frankie Burke, David Hughes, and Mary & Eric Firth - they cleared litter from the streets of the village. No discarded can, paper, or other item of rubbish escaped their sharp eyes and quick hands. In the end, they collected many large sacks crammed full with rubbish; and the village looked the better for it – let us hope it stays that way. These young people set a wonderful example to us all. The Green School Committee, which is under the leadership of school head, Mairead O’Flynn, operates a very impressive, well-organised and comprehensive Green School Action Plan, which covers aspects including:
• Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
• The Environment
• Energy Conservation
• Biodiversity
amongst many others, with an emphasis, this year, on energy.
The Green Flag School scheme is a marvellous way of getting people involved and interested in environmental matters at an early age. Scoil Mhuire attained, and has maintained, Green School status over four years ago – a very impressive achievement.
The Clean Up was part of National Spring Clean. Now in its eleventh year, National Spring Clean is Ireland’s biggest anti‑litter campaign; it encourages people from all walks of life to take pride in their local environment and to take action against litter. The event runs throughout the whole month of April.
One lesson learnt from picking up other peoples’ litter is that it is far easier to discard litter without thought than it is to pick it up; but it is so easy to put the litter in a bin, in the first place, or take it home for safe and correct disposal later.
The BME Tidy Towns group will be submitting their entry, on behalf of the village, for the 2009 competition in May. During July and August Ballymore Eustace will be visited unannounced – on two or more occasions – by the Tidy Towns adjudicators. They will be looking at the village with a mind to the following judgement categories:
Overall Developmental Approach
The Built Environment
Landscaping
Wildlife and Natural Amenities
Litter Control
Tidiness
Waste Minimisation
Residential Areas
Roads, Street, and Back Areas
General Impression
Hopefully, we will improve our score this year. Keeping the village free of litter and tidy is a daunting task, but it can be relieved if everybody – residents and visitors alike – do their bit. Please, do not drop litter; place it in the bin or take it home with you. Residents of the village can be a great help, providing they are able, if they maintain the immediate area around their doorstep litter and weed free.
“We did it!” Janet and Denise make a difference….
“Back from our travels and we have successfully participated in the 7th Building Blitz in Mbekweni, in Paarl. 500 volunteers took part in this blitz over 300 of them were women! Our target for the week was to complete 75 houses. We completed 78 homes for 900 beneficiaries living in the township, who were living in shacks. For these families it will be their first time to have a home with running water, electricity and a bathroom all to themselves! It’s a far cry from what they are used to - one toilet per 10-12 shacks. It was with great joy and pride that each of the teams got the opportunity to hand over keys to a family on the day we finished onsite. We were part of the Lilac team (painters) and the lady we handed the keys to was aged 68 years, this being her first home after 30 years on a housing list. Other beneficiaries on the day were a mother of two, an 85 year old woman, both on the housing list for over 30 years.
Our journey began when we left Dublin airport at 10.30am on Thursday morning and arrived in Cape Town @ 5.45am Friday morning. No hanging around, straight from the airport to a township that NMBB (Niall Mellon Building Blitz) had already been involved in. We were not only getting the opportunity first hand to see the shacks these people live in but also the houses that had been built and the families that were now living in them. Next day we started working in earnest.
Our day started at 5.45am when the alarm went off, Janet should have got a medal for how quickly she got out of the bed…. We were on the bus for 7am every morning to take the hour’s journey to a site in Mbekweni. We worked under the hot sun - highest temperate of the week was 41 degrees - something we are definitely not used to! We finished at 5pm each day. I have never seen so many women of all ages pushing wheelbarrows, plastering walls, lifting blocks etc. No job was too hard for us women.
GAA GURU ‘ON THE BALL’
Working alongside the Irish people for the first time also were South African men and women. We also had a special visitor on the trip with us, the legendary Michael O’ Muircheartaigh, a true gentlemen and a great worker - considering he’s 78!! It was such an amazing week to be involved in.
Throughout the week we were taken off site to visit an orphanage, a crèche, school and more ‘living’ quarters ie basic and I mean ‘basic’ shacks. The biggest threat to these families in the shacks is flooding and fires. Before we arrived, nearly 30 shacks had been burnt down after one went on fire. The families live in such close proximity to each other, they are all in imminent danger. Illness also spreads very quickly through the shacks - some of these shacks consist of one room where a family with 10 or more people are living in them - can you imagine it…
PRIDE IN EDUCATION
We met an amazing lady called Miriam who ran the orphanage with the help of her cousin. They look after 25 kids who have been abandoned by their parents or brought to her by the police. She has a 2 bedroom shack to house all these children, yet it was spotless and very well run. The children all go to school everyday, as education and religion is something they are very passionate about. The stories behind the children in the orphanage were heartbreaking.
“We did it!” Janet and Denise make a difference…. Page 2
Many of the children are HIV positive or have full blown aids which they were either born with or were infected through abuse - needless to say there was a lot of tears and sorrow felt that day. 5.5 million people in South Africa are HIV positive or have full blown aids, you can only hope that, through education these numbers will eventually start to decrease - but we can’t be sure this will ever happen in our lifetime.
After a week of toil, backache and heartache, tears of joy and pride rolled down the cheeks of the 500 Volunteers as they handed over their houses to the beneficiary families.
GIRL POWER RECOGNISED!Speaking at the beneficiary handover, Niall Mellon said:
“The week has been a phenomenal success for the charity and it is an honour for me to stand amongst my fellow countrymen and women at such a proud moment. I am especially proud of our female Volunteers who took to painting, block laying and plastering like ducks to water and with enthusiasm like no other. This was the first Building Blitz that we have had a majority of women, it was so successful that I am now concerned for the few male construction workers in Ireland! The quality of work in building these homes has been outstanding and we are very proud to hand over the houses to so many families who so richly deserve them.”During the week, we were visited by Premier of the Western Cape, Lynne Brown, Dr. Alberta Mayberry, US Consul General of the USA, Mayor of Drakenstein, Charmain Manuel and Irish Ambassador to South Africa, Colin Wrafter. In a major coup for the charity, Niall Mellon also announced that the US Senate last week passed legislation directing USAID to consider the Niall Mellon Township Trust for funding. The charity was singled out in an important Appropriations Bill which was passed by the US Senate. Needless to say there was great applause & delight when this was announced on our last night in South Africa.
THANK YOU
On a personal note both Jane and I would like say a BIG THANK EVERYONE to everyone who donated money, sponsored us, helped us with the fundraising events or just gave us a dig out to fundraise this trip. I know there is poverty in every country, our own included but I have never witnessed it at this level. The week was an experience of a lifetime for us, to see the daily things we take for granted - running water, feeling safe in your own home, walls that are not made out of boxes, food to eat everyday - we could go on and on…. Basic necessities we take for granted are pure luxury to these people.
All of YOU made it possible for us to travel to South Africa to help build homes for these people who seem to be forgotten & for that we are forever grateful. It was a very hard week physically & emotionally but we are delighted to have had the opportunity to have been involved & look forward to participating again next year! The memories of this trip will stay with us for life, so THANK YOU. Roll on next year!”
- Denise and Janet
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)