AN TAOISEACH RECEIVES A STICK TO BEAT THE OPPOSITION WITH!
We were delighted to welcome “An Taoiseach”, Mr. Bertie Ahern to officially cut the Purple Ribbon at the newly renovated Ardenode Country House Hotel yesterday, where he was presented with a wax jacket and hat along with a walking stick ‘to beat the opposition with’ as a gift from the Kildare Countryside.
The Hotel was bought by the Fitzers Catering group last July and they have just completed a €2million refurbishment programme, upgrading all areas of the Hotel turning it into the most wonderful “Country House Hotel”.
Set on 5 Acres of mature landscaped gardens, combining that with Fitzers reputation for food, style, service and attention to detail, has transformed the Hotel into a “bijoux type” of hotel.
Our contempory restaurant The Stud Bar and Grill is a stunning feature of the Hotel. It is steadily building a clientele who are talking about our exciting menu and excellent wine list in exquisite surroundings, offering good value for money.
The Taoiseach is no stranger to Fitzers Catering. He has been a recipient of their hospitality for many years, most recently last Sunday at the magnificent Croke Park Stadium where Fitzers Catering run the entire food and beverage operation.
Pictured at the Opening:
(dsc 1490)
Paula Fitzpatrick, co owner of the Ardenode Country House Hotel presenting An Taoiseach with a walking stick ‘to beat the opposition with’!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
A GOOD READ
Although I have been a long time admirer of John McGahern’s work, I had never come across any of his short stories, so I was delighted to receive “Creatures of the Earth “ (Hardback: Faber & Faber: 21euro) for Christmas. This posthumously published collection of new and selected stories is an eclectic mix of tales that span McGahern’s long and distinguished career. There are some familiar themes here: awkward relationships between father and son, fractured love affairs and the healing nature of the rural landscape.
I really enjoyed my journey through this book. Although several of the stories have overlapping settings and subjects each story is its own unique vignette. The great thing about a collection like this is that you can pick it up with only a short amount of time available for reading and have a really fulfilling experience. This is particularly ideal if life is very busy and you are finding it difficult to maintain the momentum behind a novel you have started.
Some of my favourite stories included “Like all other men”, “Sierra Leone”, and “My love, my umbrella”, as they deal with the fragile nature of new relationships and depict what must have been the author’s own disappointment in love beautifully. I also especially liked the two brand new stories, “Creatures of the earth” and “Love of the world”. These unusual stories are redolent with McGahern’s wisdom and powers of observation. They both left me wondering a little too and this enigmatic quality probably characterises the writer’s status as a true master of his art. The collection is currently still in hardback; if it arrives in paperback by the summer, it would be a great book to take away and enjoy in snatches on holiday.
Another book which has give me great pleasure on these cold winter evenings is “Vanishing Ireland” by James Fennell and Turtle Bunbury (Hardback: Hodder Headline Ireland: 30 euro) It is comprised of photographs and short pieces of text on Ireland’s vanishing generation; older people from a wide range of different backgrounds ranging from farming to music to city based trades people. The mesmerising black and white photos tell their own stories, etched in the lines and the sparkling eyes of their subjects and the book gives a fascinating insight into their (extra) ordinary lives. Some friends lent me their copy of this book and it is a testament to its excellence that when I enquired at the book shop to find out about getting my own copy I was told it had completely sold out and was being reprinted!
(Rather like the success experienced by our own Dick Jeffers with “A Harvest of Memories”….) It’s now available again in local shops so get your copy. A fantastic read for all ages.
As usual all books are available from Janet Hawkins in the Blessington Bookstore.
PS Sorry about the double dose of “Kevin” last month….my fault for sending Rose a wrongly labelled file!
ANGIE THOMPSON
Although I have been a long time admirer of John McGahern’s work, I had never come across any of his short stories, so I was delighted to receive “Creatures of the Earth “ (Hardback: Faber & Faber: 21euro) for Christmas. This posthumously published collection of new and selected stories is an eclectic mix of tales that span McGahern’s long and distinguished career. There are some familiar themes here: awkward relationships between father and son, fractured love affairs and the healing nature of the rural landscape.
I really enjoyed my journey through this book. Although several of the stories have overlapping settings and subjects each story is its own unique vignette. The great thing about a collection like this is that you can pick it up with only a short amount of time available for reading and have a really fulfilling experience. This is particularly ideal if life is very busy and you are finding it difficult to maintain the momentum behind a novel you have started.
Some of my favourite stories included “Like all other men”, “Sierra Leone”, and “My love, my umbrella”, as they deal with the fragile nature of new relationships and depict what must have been the author’s own disappointment in love beautifully. I also especially liked the two brand new stories, “Creatures of the earth” and “Love of the world”. These unusual stories are redolent with McGahern’s wisdom and powers of observation. They both left me wondering a little too and this enigmatic quality probably characterises the writer’s status as a true master of his art. The collection is currently still in hardback; if it arrives in paperback by the summer, it would be a great book to take away and enjoy in snatches on holiday.
Another book which has give me great pleasure on these cold winter evenings is “Vanishing Ireland” by James Fennell and Turtle Bunbury (Hardback: Hodder Headline Ireland: 30 euro) It is comprised of photographs and short pieces of text on Ireland’s vanishing generation; older people from a wide range of different backgrounds ranging from farming to music to city based trades people. The mesmerising black and white photos tell their own stories, etched in the lines and the sparkling eyes of their subjects and the book gives a fascinating insight into their (extra) ordinary lives. Some friends lent me their copy of this book and it is a testament to its excellence that when I enquired at the book shop to find out about getting my own copy I was told it had completely sold out and was being reprinted!
(Rather like the success experienced by our own Dick Jeffers with “A Harvest of Memories”….) It’s now available again in local shops so get your copy. A fantastic read for all ages.
As usual all books are available from Janet Hawkins in the Blessington Bookstore.
PS Sorry about the double dose of “Kevin” last month….my fault for sending Rose a wrongly labelled file!
ANGIE THOMPSON
BUGLE CORRESPONDENCE
Please note, all correspondence relating to The Bugle received by the Editors will be published, provided a name and address is submitted and the content is not offensive.
When requested, the name of the contributor will be withheld but we WILL NOT print correspondence unless full name and address are enclosed – Rose & Tim
Dear Editor,
Having been a reader of the Bugle for many years, I am disappointed at the constant bad press given to the present Government by two of your monthly contributors, Mr. D. Jeffers and Mr. Edmonds.
These two gentlemen have consistently "slated the Government" - this having been the main source, indeed, the only source of their material over the past year. As the Bugle is a family read paper and not politically linked to any party, I feel their contributions are totally one-sided and prejudiced.
Yours sincerely, - name with editor
Rose and Tim in reply:
This point has been raised with us before verbally but not in writing; as you correctly say, the Bugle is a community, family-read publication so therefore, we are obliged to accept all opinions even if they are consistently anti-government.
On a positive note, we receive more correspondence from Fianna Fail councillors and representatives than from other parties which we acknowledge regularly within The Bugle and also receive a fair share of government bodies in their official capacity at local events and again, we print these without bias. (See this page to prove the point)
Perhaps Mike and Dick will take your comments on board!
___________________________________-
Esmondale, Naas
Co Kildare
15/3/07
Rose,
In relation to an enquiry raised by the Parish Office regarding possible grants for church lighting, I have thus far written, emailed and made several telephone phone calls to the relative department in Kildare County Council.
I have not forgotten about it – but believe me, your elected county councillors are given no preferential treatment when it comes to return communications from KCC!
Cllr Willie Callaghan
___________________________________________________-
Reference K1981
26 February 2007
Dear Rose
Thank you for your correspondence in relation to traffic issues at Ballymore Eustace which I have taken up with Kildare County Council and Naas Garda Station.
I will keep you informed of progress.
Yours sincerely,
Sean
______________________
Sean Power, TD
Minister of State
Nib The matters raised with Sean at The People of The Year Awards were the poor re-instatement of roads around the village and the lack of pedestrian crossings at Chapel Street (near right of way from St Brigid’s Park, Medical Centre/shops and Main Street (safe crossing needed for school children along the stretch of road from Ballymore Inn and The Anvil)
Quiz Night
Grateful thanks for all who supported same for Tsunami Fund in Paddy Murphy’s. Quiz Master, Michael Lawlor was in fine form and charmed his way through the night. With donations also received, the night raised 690; Dr Mary Toomey expresses her gratitude. Many thanks to our kind hosts, Grainne and Pat Murphy.
- Ann McLoughlin 2/3/07
SMALL WORLD
Ethna Lewis, a few pals from Dunlavin and myself headed off to Sunny Spain recently to glorious sunshine and relaxation time. Glorious weather, we had. Anyway, whilst we out there, we met up with Anne and Tom Daly of Donode. Indeed, this is the third time I’ve met up with the Daly’s in Spain over the past few years – its ironic seeing as we only live a half mile away from each other and unless I’m attending a table quiz in Paddy’s, I rarely bump into them!
Anne and Tom had just left us in Paddy’s Point pub when we set about securing a few high stools; one young fella from Sligo handed over the stool graciously, thought it was safer to give in than give out to us….”Where are ye from?” says he. “Ballymore Eustace?? Paddy Murphy’s? The Ardenode? Jeez, I know them – I was at a wedding there years ago – Yvonne Daly and John Sweeney’s…” Anyway, we had a good laugh with “Skins” as I think was the nickname he went by. According to “Skins”, Yvonne’s wedding was the best he was ever at and he had very fond – but hazy – memories of Paddy Murphy’s. What he did remember was the following day, his ‘friends’ put him on the return train to Sligo, half asleep and his feet in wellies filled with beer.
You really can’t manage without your friends, can you?
Yvonne is a daughter of Anne and Tom’s and soon, more of the company joined us – “Do you know Sean Feeley and the wife?” “Would you know anyone involved in Fianna Fail over there? Would you have Fiona O Loughlin's telephone number....”
Do you know what, there were more people in the pub over there who had connections or knew friends than I’d know in Paddy’s on a Saturday night………The world is getting smaller, that’s for sure. Think we may go to India next year.
- Rose
MUSSELS IN BRUSSELS
How many mussels does one get in a main course dish here in Ireland, would you say?
9? 10? Less, more? Well, on a recent visit to Brussels, we made a day trip out to Bruges, beautiful medieval town on water – “The Little Venice of Europe”. Stunning, it was with its narrow cobbled streets overlooking the canals.
Anyway, our tour stopped for an early lunch at a local restaurant; seeing as we’d eaten breakfast only 2 hours earlier, we decided to share a main course dish of mussels which every restaurant in Brussels and Bruges carried a bill board promoting same. Out came a skillet pot with mussels cooked in ‘herbs, white wine and butter’. Oh my God, these mussels were truly orgasmic. I have never tasted anything so delicious before. We thought the waiter had made a mistake and given a double portion – 69 mussels in total in the pot, no kidding! We could hardly walk, we were so full when the waiter returned with the bill, €19 only for the mussels, plus the cost of our beer and wine - and a complimentary chocolate mousse. I ask you – how the hell do European tourists manage over here? For under €25, we had a main course of the Ballymore Inn standard, drink and dessert.
After taking a boat trip on the canal and walking the feet off ourselves, we decided to try a local beverage – drinking chocolate with rum. Over here, that would mean a mug of chocolate and a thimble full of rum. Over there, it meant a large mug of rum flavoured with drinking chocolate.
I found the cobble stones a tad difficult to negotiate after that.
I did however notice the timeless beauty of the place, the architecture largely unchanged for centuries. Off the Belfry Square, was a shopping street with all the modern designer labels – Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, Benetton, Esprit, Dune, H & M, C & A etc. They well located on a side street with similar sized buildings, hundreds of years old. Apart from the bright shop windows and signs, the area looked untouched and the modern shop units seemed to fit well with the medieval architecture of the area. How come we can’t achieve that here???
Retain the quality or character of areas without having to knock en masse and replace with garish, impersonal, modern buildings?
On a humorous note, we enjoyed the talents of South American musicians who played the pan pipes. They were everywhere in Brussels, as they are in Spain but what amuses me is the fact they are usually from Columbia, Bolivia, Ecuador etc – south Americans yet they wear the suede, fringed jackets, leather boots, feathered headdress of the North American Indians, as in Geronimo and friends? Maybe, I’ve watched too many ‘cowboys and Indian’ films, maybe it was the rum but when did the Incas or Aztec wear leather boots and suede jackets……… I know, I am losing the plot. (and I know they are from South America ‘cos I always ask. They were even outside Naas Insurances two years ago…….) Any avid historians or South Americans, please advise.
Like I said already, the world is getting smaller
- Rose
Please note, all correspondence relating to The Bugle received by the Editors will be published, provided a name and address is submitted and the content is not offensive.
When requested, the name of the contributor will be withheld but we WILL NOT print correspondence unless full name and address are enclosed – Rose & Tim
Dear Editor,
Having been a reader of the Bugle for many years, I am disappointed at the constant bad press given to the present Government by two of your monthly contributors, Mr. D. Jeffers and Mr. Edmonds.
These two gentlemen have consistently "slated the Government" - this having been the main source, indeed, the only source of their material over the past year. As the Bugle is a family read paper and not politically linked to any party, I feel their contributions are totally one-sided and prejudiced.
Yours sincerely, - name with editor
Rose and Tim in reply:
This point has been raised with us before verbally but not in writing; as you correctly say, the Bugle is a community, family-read publication so therefore, we are obliged to accept all opinions even if they are consistently anti-government.
On a positive note, we receive more correspondence from Fianna Fail councillors and representatives than from other parties which we acknowledge regularly within The Bugle and also receive a fair share of government bodies in their official capacity at local events and again, we print these without bias. (See this page to prove the point)
Perhaps Mike and Dick will take your comments on board!
___________________________________-
Esmondale, Naas
Co Kildare
15/3/07
Rose,
In relation to an enquiry raised by the Parish Office regarding possible grants for church lighting, I have thus far written, emailed and made several telephone phone calls to the relative department in Kildare County Council.
I have not forgotten about it – but believe me, your elected county councillors are given no preferential treatment when it comes to return communications from KCC!
Cllr Willie Callaghan
___________________________________________________-
Reference K1981
26 February 2007
Dear Rose
Thank you for your correspondence in relation to traffic issues at Ballymore Eustace which I have taken up with Kildare County Council and Naas Garda Station.
I will keep you informed of progress.
Yours sincerely,
Sean
______________________
Sean Power, TD
Minister of State
Nib The matters raised with Sean at The People of The Year Awards were the poor re-instatement of roads around the village and the lack of pedestrian crossings at Chapel Street (near right of way from St Brigid’s Park, Medical Centre/shops and Main Street (safe crossing needed for school children along the stretch of road from Ballymore Inn and The Anvil)
Quiz Night
Grateful thanks for all who supported same for Tsunami Fund in Paddy Murphy’s. Quiz Master, Michael Lawlor was in fine form and charmed his way through the night. With donations also received, the night raised 690; Dr Mary Toomey expresses her gratitude. Many thanks to our kind hosts, Grainne and Pat Murphy.
- Ann McLoughlin 2/3/07
SMALL WORLD
Ethna Lewis, a few pals from Dunlavin and myself headed off to Sunny Spain recently to glorious sunshine and relaxation time. Glorious weather, we had. Anyway, whilst we out there, we met up with Anne and Tom Daly of Donode. Indeed, this is the third time I’ve met up with the Daly’s in Spain over the past few years – its ironic seeing as we only live a half mile away from each other and unless I’m attending a table quiz in Paddy’s, I rarely bump into them!
Anne and Tom had just left us in Paddy’s Point pub when we set about securing a few high stools; one young fella from Sligo handed over the stool graciously, thought it was safer to give in than give out to us….”Where are ye from?” says he. “Ballymore Eustace?? Paddy Murphy’s? The Ardenode? Jeez, I know them – I was at a wedding there years ago – Yvonne Daly and John Sweeney’s…” Anyway, we had a good laugh with “Skins” as I think was the nickname he went by. According to “Skins”, Yvonne’s wedding was the best he was ever at and he had very fond – but hazy – memories of Paddy Murphy’s. What he did remember was the following day, his ‘friends’ put him on the return train to Sligo, half asleep and his feet in wellies filled with beer.
You really can’t manage without your friends, can you?
Yvonne is a daughter of Anne and Tom’s and soon, more of the company joined us – “Do you know Sean Feeley and the wife?” “Would you know anyone involved in Fianna Fail over there? Would you have Fiona O Loughlin's telephone number....”
Do you know what, there were more people in the pub over there who had connections or knew friends than I’d know in Paddy’s on a Saturday night………The world is getting smaller, that’s for sure. Think we may go to India next year.
- Rose
MUSSELS IN BRUSSELS
How many mussels does one get in a main course dish here in Ireland, would you say?
9? 10? Less, more? Well, on a recent visit to Brussels, we made a day trip out to Bruges, beautiful medieval town on water – “The Little Venice of Europe”. Stunning, it was with its narrow cobbled streets overlooking the canals.
Anyway, our tour stopped for an early lunch at a local restaurant; seeing as we’d eaten breakfast only 2 hours earlier, we decided to share a main course dish of mussels which every restaurant in Brussels and Bruges carried a bill board promoting same. Out came a skillet pot with mussels cooked in ‘herbs, white wine and butter’. Oh my God, these mussels were truly orgasmic. I have never tasted anything so delicious before. We thought the waiter had made a mistake and given a double portion – 69 mussels in total in the pot, no kidding! We could hardly walk, we were so full when the waiter returned with the bill, €19 only for the mussels, plus the cost of our beer and wine - and a complimentary chocolate mousse. I ask you – how the hell do European tourists manage over here? For under €25, we had a main course of the Ballymore Inn standard, drink and dessert.
After taking a boat trip on the canal and walking the feet off ourselves, we decided to try a local beverage – drinking chocolate with rum. Over here, that would mean a mug of chocolate and a thimble full of rum. Over there, it meant a large mug of rum flavoured with drinking chocolate.
I found the cobble stones a tad difficult to negotiate after that.
I did however notice the timeless beauty of the place, the architecture largely unchanged for centuries. Off the Belfry Square, was a shopping street with all the modern designer labels – Tommy Hilfiger, Zara, Benetton, Esprit, Dune, H & M, C & A etc. They well located on a side street with similar sized buildings, hundreds of years old. Apart from the bright shop windows and signs, the area looked untouched and the modern shop units seemed to fit well with the medieval architecture of the area. How come we can’t achieve that here???
Retain the quality or character of areas without having to knock en masse and replace with garish, impersonal, modern buildings?
On a humorous note, we enjoyed the talents of South American musicians who played the pan pipes. They were everywhere in Brussels, as they are in Spain but what amuses me is the fact they are usually from Columbia, Bolivia, Ecuador etc – south Americans yet they wear the suede, fringed jackets, leather boots, feathered headdress of the North American Indians, as in Geronimo and friends? Maybe, I’ve watched too many ‘cowboys and Indian’ films, maybe it was the rum but when did the Incas or Aztec wear leather boots and suede jackets……… I know, I am losing the plot. (and I know they are from South America ‘cos I always ask. They were even outside Naas Insurances two years ago…….) Any avid historians or South Americans, please advise.
Like I said already, the world is getting smaller
- Rose
Bits ‘n Bobs with Rose
KTK LEVY COMMITTEE
The White Flag is raised – and they’re off!
OOOPs, no, no, false start – we’ll try again…..
The White Flag is raised…..
A script writer couldn’t pen a farce as good as this; having finally agreed, almost two years later, the formation of a committee to delegate the spending of monies raised from KTK levies, Kildare County Council called a meeting for said committee.
The main parties involved are: 2 representatives from the local community, Mike Edmonds representing the ABCD and myself representing the CDA; 2 reps for KTK; 2 reps for Kildare County Council and 2 local councillors, Mary Glennon and Billy Hillis.
A meeting was scheduled for March 8th and all parties were notified. Simple, isn’t it? Well, you would think so – but Kildare County Council didn’t remember to notify KTK and they sent a letter to the CDA to Steve Deegan, former chairperson up to December 2005. The fact that they received correspondence from last year’s chairperson, Jimmy Pearse and from me more recently doesn’t even enter into it……….I was disappointed I would have to miss the first meeting as I was abroad. But Readers, they forgot to notify KTK so the meeting was abandoned and is rescheduled for Tuesday 27th March. Get out the Lucky Rabbit’s Foot, the rosary beads and anything else that might help get this committee up and running.
Kevin Keenan himself finds the whole thing a joke, an absolute disaster: “With Kilcullen community, we simply give the money directly to local groups and clubs for projects and facilities being upgraded. No messing about, none of this bull. Write the cheque and hand it over, that’s it – straight forward, done and dusted”
On the matter of correspondence, we, the CDA, have written to Willie Purcell regarding road and safety matters in Ballymore Eustace – email 29/1/07 and posted correspondence two weeks later – not even the courtesy of an acknowledgement. Eric Firth has submitted a comprehensive report on the appalling state of our roads, flooding, abuse of one-way system of Plunkett Road, poor parking, the need for pedestrian crossings plus other relative matters – if we don’t get a reply, then we shall certainly kick up a stink and start ‘naming names in local media’. The CDA is an elected body representing local opinion – if Kildare County Council don’t see fit to acknowledge our correspondence nor address the issues raised, then me may as well throw in the towel and leave it to the fairies.
____________________________________________
IN boxed advert and highlighted please with horsey graphic
Community Development Association – Race week Raffle
Due to unforeseen circumstances, our Raffle has been postponed until Sunday April
22nd.
Our Race week Raffle will include tickets to racing @Punchestown, Naas Racecourse, Moat Theatre, Naas, Waterford Crystal, Monster Hamper plus 15 follow up prizes.
Tickets will €1.50 each or book of 4 for €5. Tickets on sale early April – please, support generously. The CDA includes Tidy Towns Association, Meals on Wheels, The Resource Centre, River Walk, Weekly Bingo, The Friendship Club plus community issues as they arise.
We need funds urgently so please, lend your support!
Anyone wishing to donate prizes for the Raffle, your generosity will be appreciated.
_________________________________________________
NO FESTIVAL FOR RACEWEEK
BUT CARMAN FAIR IS BACK!!
Its dreadful disappointing that we have no festival week during race week but Readers, you are all collectively to blame. Only young student Maria Griffin came forward to volunteer help – thanks Maria.
But we have some good news – CARMAN FAIR is going ahead for this year and it’s scheduled for the kinder climate of July with all the historic, novelty and musical entertainment of last year. Three cheers for Morgan and Liam who are in the throes of organising at the moment. The CDA will endorse this festival – it gave an incredible insight into aspects of our heritage and traditions whilst giving entertainment to children and adults alike. We would encourage the business community and clubs to support the festival as it will bring large numbers of people into Ballymore. Roll on July!
________________________________________________________________________
FASHION SALE AND SHOW
Mary Jane Fashions and The Ballymore Eustace Community Playschool present a unique Fashion Show and Sale at the Ardenode Hotel on Wednesday 28th March next. Tickets €10 with proceeds going to the Community Playschool and Tallaght Breast Unit.
There’s a huge selection of styles and sizes on offer from casuals, jeans, knitwear, dresses, suits with sizes from 8-24 catered for.
Leather and Suede goods on offer, pure new wool coats and jackets plus much more.
You will find designer high street fashions and top range catalogue styles at a FRACTION of the Normal Price. Don’t miss out – The Ardenode Hotel on Wednesday next, 28th March @ 8pm.
______________________________________________________
Photo and caption of grandchild Quinlan to come…. Left it in work, sorry!
________________________________________________________________________ please put the following two pieces in boxed strips, side by side, across the bottom of page, thank you
TRIBUTE NIGHT
To John McCarville
In recognition of John McCarville’s retirement from the Garda Siochana and
his incredible contribution to community life in Ballymore Eustace and Blessington,
A Tribute Night has been organised for Friday 30th March in The Ardenode Hotel
Dinner and Dancing €35pp
All welcome – please don’t miss this opportunity to pay tribute to John!
For tickets, please contact 045 865 202
__________________________________________________________
CARMAN FAIR
Calling all:
Artists
Crafts People
Art Groups
Stall Holders
Carman Fair is back – on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd July
To secure your stall, contact Reka @ 045 864665
Liam 087 786 2969 or Morgan 087 927 0390
____________________________________________________
KTK LEVY COMMITTEE
The White Flag is raised – and they’re off!
OOOPs, no, no, false start – we’ll try again…..
The White Flag is raised…..
A script writer couldn’t pen a farce as good as this; having finally agreed, almost two years later, the formation of a committee to delegate the spending of monies raised from KTK levies, Kildare County Council called a meeting for said committee.
The main parties involved are: 2 representatives from the local community, Mike Edmonds representing the ABCD and myself representing the CDA; 2 reps for KTK; 2 reps for Kildare County Council and 2 local councillors, Mary Glennon and Billy Hillis.
A meeting was scheduled for March 8th and all parties were notified. Simple, isn’t it? Well, you would think so – but Kildare County Council didn’t remember to notify KTK and they sent a letter to the CDA to Steve Deegan, former chairperson up to December 2005. The fact that they received correspondence from last year’s chairperson, Jimmy Pearse and from me more recently doesn’t even enter into it……….I was disappointed I would have to miss the first meeting as I was abroad. But Readers, they forgot to notify KTK so the meeting was abandoned and is rescheduled for Tuesday 27th March. Get out the Lucky Rabbit’s Foot, the rosary beads and anything else that might help get this committee up and running.
Kevin Keenan himself finds the whole thing a joke, an absolute disaster: “With Kilcullen community, we simply give the money directly to local groups and clubs for projects and facilities being upgraded. No messing about, none of this bull. Write the cheque and hand it over, that’s it – straight forward, done and dusted”
On the matter of correspondence, we, the CDA, have written to Willie Purcell regarding road and safety matters in Ballymore Eustace – email 29/1/07 and posted correspondence two weeks later – not even the courtesy of an acknowledgement. Eric Firth has submitted a comprehensive report on the appalling state of our roads, flooding, abuse of one-way system of Plunkett Road, poor parking, the need for pedestrian crossings plus other relative matters – if we don’t get a reply, then we shall certainly kick up a stink and start ‘naming names in local media’. The CDA is an elected body representing local opinion – if Kildare County Council don’t see fit to acknowledge our correspondence nor address the issues raised, then me may as well throw in the towel and leave it to the fairies.
____________________________________________
IN boxed advert and highlighted please with horsey graphic
Community Development Association – Race week Raffle
Due to unforeseen circumstances, our Raffle has been postponed until Sunday April
22nd.
Our Race week Raffle will include tickets to racing @Punchestown, Naas Racecourse, Moat Theatre, Naas, Waterford Crystal, Monster Hamper plus 15 follow up prizes.
Tickets will €1.50 each or book of 4 for €5. Tickets on sale early April – please, support generously. The CDA includes Tidy Towns Association, Meals on Wheels, The Resource Centre, River Walk, Weekly Bingo, The Friendship Club plus community issues as they arise.
We need funds urgently so please, lend your support!
Anyone wishing to donate prizes for the Raffle, your generosity will be appreciated.
_________________________________________________
NO FESTIVAL FOR RACEWEEK
BUT CARMAN FAIR IS BACK!!
Its dreadful disappointing that we have no festival week during race week but Readers, you are all collectively to blame. Only young student Maria Griffin came forward to volunteer help – thanks Maria.
But we have some good news – CARMAN FAIR is going ahead for this year and it’s scheduled for the kinder climate of July with all the historic, novelty and musical entertainment of last year. Three cheers for Morgan and Liam who are in the throes of organising at the moment. The CDA will endorse this festival – it gave an incredible insight into aspects of our heritage and traditions whilst giving entertainment to children and adults alike. We would encourage the business community and clubs to support the festival as it will bring large numbers of people into Ballymore. Roll on July!
________________________________________________________________________
FASHION SALE AND SHOW
Mary Jane Fashions and The Ballymore Eustace Community Playschool present a unique Fashion Show and Sale at the Ardenode Hotel on Wednesday 28th March next. Tickets €10 with proceeds going to the Community Playschool and Tallaght Breast Unit.
There’s a huge selection of styles and sizes on offer from casuals, jeans, knitwear, dresses, suits with sizes from 8-24 catered for.
Leather and Suede goods on offer, pure new wool coats and jackets plus much more.
You will find designer high street fashions and top range catalogue styles at a FRACTION of the Normal Price. Don’t miss out – The Ardenode Hotel on Wednesday next, 28th March @ 8pm.
______________________________________________________
Photo and caption of grandchild Quinlan to come…. Left it in work, sorry!
________________________________________________________________________ please put the following two pieces in boxed strips, side by side, across the bottom of page, thank you
TRIBUTE NIGHT
To John McCarville
In recognition of John McCarville’s retirement from the Garda Siochana and
his incredible contribution to community life in Ballymore Eustace and Blessington,
A Tribute Night has been organised for Friday 30th March in The Ardenode Hotel
Dinner and Dancing €35pp
All welcome – please don’t miss this opportunity to pay tribute to John!
For tickets, please contact 045 865 202
__________________________________________________________
CARMAN FAIR
Calling all:
Artists
Crafts People
Art Groups
Stall Holders
Carman Fair is back – on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd July
To secure your stall, contact Reka @ 045 864665
Liam 087 786 2969 or Morgan 087 927 0390
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Spreading the Gospel.
Well you’d swear I’d started the whole thing. In my last two Bugle articles I briefly mentioned ‘global warming’ and now you can hardly pick up a newspaper or turn on the TV or radio and there it is, making top headlines all over the place. I’d like to claim credit for the sudden interest but more learned men then I have been talking about it for years but not everyone paid heed. And now? Well blow me down, but politicians from all over, are to the fore, urging us ordinary mortals to sit up and take notice. Our own crowd are taking it very serious. So serious in fact that twenty nine of them are heading off for Patrick’s Day to various destinations all over the globe with a message. You’ll never guess it, so here it is: “To highlight the global threat of climate change and the urgency of acting together to meet the challenge”. There, you have it in a nutshell. They will try and squeeze this important message in between the usual atin’ an drinkin’s sessions, and general back slapping bonhomie. The effect of this entire great endeavour will be to add 182 tonnes of gas emissions into an already crowded atmosphere; the government jet being the biggest offender. Irony of ironies! Why only t’other day Bertie urged all departments to lead the way and cut down on travel. In fact the man parked the merc and took two trips on the Dart, finding it a most satisfactory (his words) way to travel. Leading by example you could say, now all he has to do is to sell the message to the junketeers. I’ll finish on the subject by asking three questions; first, what’s the cost, and who pays for all this gospel spreading, and secondly, are daily newspapers produced and read by peoples in the far-flung outer regions of our Irish empire, and thirdly, are we the only ones who know about ‘global warming’?
Speaking of gospel spreading but of a different kind altogether than the one mentioned above. We frequently hear and visibly see for ourselves the fall off in church attendance in the established churches; by established I mean the Roman Catholic Church and the Reformed Protestant churches. Some Catholic bishops will claim resurgence in church attendance; be that as it may, but a lot of young people today of any religion, take a different approach to religious beliefs than their fathers and mothers did when they were young. So why has this problem arisen one might well ask? There are a multitude of questions being asked and a multitude of answers given. Like most lay people I don’t have the answers but I humble suggest a reason or two as to why this problem has arisen. Power and apathy are but two that need to be addressed.
Down through the ages where the churches held sway their rule was unquestioned by the lower orders. Power and the trappings of power is a powerful aphrodisiac and those who found themselves in that situation used it to their advantage. They ruled with an iron fist breathing fear into the hearts of the ordinary mortal. Fear of Hell’s fire and damnation but also fear of them. They built magnificent cathedrals and palaces to the glory of God, but those who lived in the palaces were treated like little gods. Those days are long since gone and the cathedrals and palaces are as much a tourist attraction as anything else and the power has been subsumed into bureaucracy. Mind you it’s not all that long ago since power carried clout. As a young lad growing up in rural Ireland there were three classes of people who carried respect; the local priest/parson, the local school teacher and the local civic guard as they were called in those times. That day has also long gone; mores the pity some would say. So the question is: does power, now in the guise of bureaucracy still exercise too much control over the ordinary parishioner? Corruption and paedophilia hasn’t helped the cause of those seeking to ‘lead us not into temptation’!
Apathy is another downer, “I couldn’t care less”, “I’m too old”, “What’s the use”, “Where’s the youth”, these are just some of the remarks heard among parishioners. Leadership must have a part to play if apathy is to be overcome, but knocking priest or parson is not the sole answer to a deeper problem.
But we haven’t yet become a complete nation of philistines; just witness the number of Bible Study groups, and Parish Fellowship meetings, that are taking place all over, some held in community halls, some held in private homes, and most of them interdenominational. All of them have a warm and friendly atmosphere, everyone chips in, and no one person lays down the law. The structures of the established churches have remained static for ages apart from a bit of trimming round the edges; should they be taking a closer look at these Study and Fellowship groups and asking themselves ‘what makes them tick’? Are they humble enough to do so?
The Church of Ireland has set up “Ministry Matters” to look into all aspects of these pertinent matters and to find out where the Church stands today. Group facilitators have been appointed, green and white papers shuffled around; we await results.
In the meantime I’ll pass on a tip to all who wish to ‘pack ‘em in’. Metaphorically speaking I got it straight from the horse’s mouth. This being Cheltenham Week that wise old tipster, our very own Father Sean Breen from Ballymore was interviewed on Nationwide. The last question asked of him was, “at what stage in your service do you give out your tips?” Without hesitation and a twinkle in his eye he replied, “at the end, that way I hold on to them”. Put your ace of spades on that! Keep it up Father your one of our own. Now if only the Church of Ireland had a few ‘Bettin’ Bishops’! Yrs Jeffers.
Well you’d swear I’d started the whole thing. In my last two Bugle articles I briefly mentioned ‘global warming’ and now you can hardly pick up a newspaper or turn on the TV or radio and there it is, making top headlines all over the place. I’d like to claim credit for the sudden interest but more learned men then I have been talking about it for years but not everyone paid heed. And now? Well blow me down, but politicians from all over, are to the fore, urging us ordinary mortals to sit up and take notice. Our own crowd are taking it very serious. So serious in fact that twenty nine of them are heading off for Patrick’s Day to various destinations all over the globe with a message. You’ll never guess it, so here it is: “To highlight the global threat of climate change and the urgency of acting together to meet the challenge”. There, you have it in a nutshell. They will try and squeeze this important message in between the usual atin’ an drinkin’s sessions, and general back slapping bonhomie. The effect of this entire great endeavour will be to add 182 tonnes of gas emissions into an already crowded atmosphere; the government jet being the biggest offender. Irony of ironies! Why only t’other day Bertie urged all departments to lead the way and cut down on travel. In fact the man parked the merc and took two trips on the Dart, finding it a most satisfactory (his words) way to travel. Leading by example you could say, now all he has to do is to sell the message to the junketeers. I’ll finish on the subject by asking three questions; first, what’s the cost, and who pays for all this gospel spreading, and secondly, are daily newspapers produced and read by peoples in the far-flung outer regions of our Irish empire, and thirdly, are we the only ones who know about ‘global warming’?
Speaking of gospel spreading but of a different kind altogether than the one mentioned above. We frequently hear and visibly see for ourselves the fall off in church attendance in the established churches; by established I mean the Roman Catholic Church and the Reformed Protestant churches. Some Catholic bishops will claim resurgence in church attendance; be that as it may, but a lot of young people today of any religion, take a different approach to religious beliefs than their fathers and mothers did when they were young. So why has this problem arisen one might well ask? There are a multitude of questions being asked and a multitude of answers given. Like most lay people I don’t have the answers but I humble suggest a reason or two as to why this problem has arisen. Power and apathy are but two that need to be addressed.
Down through the ages where the churches held sway their rule was unquestioned by the lower orders. Power and the trappings of power is a powerful aphrodisiac and those who found themselves in that situation used it to their advantage. They ruled with an iron fist breathing fear into the hearts of the ordinary mortal. Fear of Hell’s fire and damnation but also fear of them. They built magnificent cathedrals and palaces to the glory of God, but those who lived in the palaces were treated like little gods. Those days are long since gone and the cathedrals and palaces are as much a tourist attraction as anything else and the power has been subsumed into bureaucracy. Mind you it’s not all that long ago since power carried clout. As a young lad growing up in rural Ireland there were three classes of people who carried respect; the local priest/parson, the local school teacher and the local civic guard as they were called in those times. That day has also long gone; mores the pity some would say. So the question is: does power, now in the guise of bureaucracy still exercise too much control over the ordinary parishioner? Corruption and paedophilia hasn’t helped the cause of those seeking to ‘lead us not into temptation’!
Apathy is another downer, “I couldn’t care less”, “I’m too old”, “What’s the use”, “Where’s the youth”, these are just some of the remarks heard among parishioners. Leadership must have a part to play if apathy is to be overcome, but knocking priest or parson is not the sole answer to a deeper problem.
But we haven’t yet become a complete nation of philistines; just witness the number of Bible Study groups, and Parish Fellowship meetings, that are taking place all over, some held in community halls, some held in private homes, and most of them interdenominational. All of them have a warm and friendly atmosphere, everyone chips in, and no one person lays down the law. The structures of the established churches have remained static for ages apart from a bit of trimming round the edges; should they be taking a closer look at these Study and Fellowship groups and asking themselves ‘what makes them tick’? Are they humble enough to do so?
The Church of Ireland has set up “Ministry Matters” to look into all aspects of these pertinent matters and to find out where the Church stands today. Group facilitators have been appointed, green and white papers shuffled around; we await results.
In the meantime I’ll pass on a tip to all who wish to ‘pack ‘em in’. Metaphorically speaking I got it straight from the horse’s mouth. This being Cheltenham Week that wise old tipster, our very own Father Sean Breen from Ballymore was interviewed on Nationwide. The last question asked of him was, “at what stage in your service do you give out your tips?” Without hesitation and a twinkle in his eye he replied, “at the end, that way I hold on to them”. Put your ace of spades on that! Keep it up Father your one of our own. Now if only the Church of Ireland had a few ‘Bettin’ Bishops’! Yrs Jeffers.
The Rector writes . . .
The Pharaoh’s wife . . .
I’ve always enjoyed making people laugh. All through school I was the class clown. I even have a school report that reads, “Kesh, seems unable to resist trying to amuse the children around him.” My primary school teacher wrote that when I was five years old, so it’s no surprise that my 7-year-old son comes home with similar school reports now!
I loved to entertain. When I was 5, 6, 7, years old I used to enjoy putting on shows for the rest of the family. My sister and I would take white bed sheets and hang them up like stage curtains and at the right moment I would appear from behind them dressed up in a Gary Glitter Costume that we made out of empty cornflakes boxes and silver spray singing, “Do you wanna be in my gang?”. I’d do impressions of Frank Spencer and sing like Elvis, and then my brothers, sister and I would pretend to be Abba.
At the age of 11, I finally got my big break when I was chosen to play the part of Joseph in Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat. I borrowed my dad’s stripey bathrobe for the coat and my mum’s best tea towel for my head wear – there was no fancy dressmaker in those days like there are in schools now. All the family and neighbours were there on the opening night. All was going well until we got to the point where Pharaoh’s wife is luring Joseph into her arms. I should have said, “NO! I will not betray my master, the Pharaoh,” but you see, Julie Carroll was playing the role of Pharaoh’s wife – she was the first girl I really fancied and when she asked me to kiss her what could I do but oblige. . . she was not impressed and neither was Mrs. Harris the Play Coordinator. I quickly recovered my role by shouting, “I have sinned,” much to the amusement of all the audience – maybe this was my first calling to the priesthood???
Life wasn’t always one great laugh though. I remember the day when I found out that Father Christmas wasn’t all he was made out to be. It was bedtime on Christmas Eve. My mum helped me to get the treats ready for Santa and his reindeers. We always left a glass of sherry for Santa and some carrots for Rudolph on a tray on the living room table. Then I would run upstairs, get into my pyjamas, have a quick wash and get straight into bed – mum always said that if I was awake when Santa called he would think I was a naughty boy and he wouldn’t leave me any presents. I was taking no chances. I put my head on the pillow and fell asleep.
In the middle of the night I woke up to the sound of shouting from the street below. I got out of bed and went over to the window and looked down and saw my mum and dad dragging a black bin bag from the back of the car. As my dad pulled it out the bag ripped and presents fell out all over the street and then I saw, what was to change my life forever, the Buckaroo I had asked Santa for fall out of the bag. Devastated I climbed back into my duvet. How could they have lied to me all these years? I cried myself to sleep that night it was all too much for a boy of nineteen to take in!!!
Recently, I read about a couple (aherm!) who told their four year old that if she saw the red light flash on the alarm sensor in the corner of the room it meant Father Christmas was watching her and checking that she was being a good girl. That’s just cruel, like telling your children that when the Ice-cream Van plays a tune it means that it’s ran out of ice-cream!
Being a Christian can be fun. I now use my God-given ability in making people laugh in serving God. But even for those of us who laugh a lot there are times when we go through life when we find it hard to smile.
The Bible says, everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. He sets the time to laugh, and the time to cry. He sets the time for sorrow and the time for joy; a time for building and a time for breaking down; the time for mourning and the time for dancing; the time for kissing and the time for not kissing!
Ah! Well! Must go, Josh’s Elvis suit needs ironing – I don’t know where he gets if from???
With love, Kesh x
The value of money . . .
The Value Of Money. It can buy a house, but not a home. It can buy a bed, but not sleep. It can buy a clock, but not Time It can buy you a Book, but not Knowledge. It can buy you a Position, but not Respect. It can buy you Medicine, but not Health. It can buy you Blood, but not Life
So you see money isn't everything and it often causes pain and suffering. I tell you this because I am your Friend, and as your Friend I want to take away your pain and suffering! So send me all your money and I will suffer for you! Cash only please!
The Pharaoh’s wife . . .
I’ve always enjoyed making people laugh. All through school I was the class clown. I even have a school report that reads, “Kesh, seems unable to resist trying to amuse the children around him.” My primary school teacher wrote that when I was five years old, so it’s no surprise that my 7-year-old son comes home with similar school reports now!
I loved to entertain. When I was 5, 6, 7, years old I used to enjoy putting on shows for the rest of the family. My sister and I would take white bed sheets and hang them up like stage curtains and at the right moment I would appear from behind them dressed up in a Gary Glitter Costume that we made out of empty cornflakes boxes and silver spray singing, “Do you wanna be in my gang?”. I’d do impressions of Frank Spencer and sing like Elvis, and then my brothers, sister and I would pretend to be Abba.
At the age of 11, I finally got my big break when I was chosen to play the part of Joseph in Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat. I borrowed my dad’s stripey bathrobe for the coat and my mum’s best tea towel for my head wear – there was no fancy dressmaker in those days like there are in schools now. All the family and neighbours were there on the opening night. All was going well until we got to the point where Pharaoh’s wife is luring Joseph into her arms. I should have said, “NO! I will not betray my master, the Pharaoh,” but you see, Julie Carroll was playing the role of Pharaoh’s wife – she was the first girl I really fancied and when she asked me to kiss her what could I do but oblige. . . she was not impressed and neither was Mrs. Harris the Play Coordinator. I quickly recovered my role by shouting, “I have sinned,” much to the amusement of all the audience – maybe this was my first calling to the priesthood???
Life wasn’t always one great laugh though. I remember the day when I found out that Father Christmas wasn’t all he was made out to be. It was bedtime on Christmas Eve. My mum helped me to get the treats ready for Santa and his reindeers. We always left a glass of sherry for Santa and some carrots for Rudolph on a tray on the living room table. Then I would run upstairs, get into my pyjamas, have a quick wash and get straight into bed – mum always said that if I was awake when Santa called he would think I was a naughty boy and he wouldn’t leave me any presents. I was taking no chances. I put my head on the pillow and fell asleep.
In the middle of the night I woke up to the sound of shouting from the street below. I got out of bed and went over to the window and looked down and saw my mum and dad dragging a black bin bag from the back of the car. As my dad pulled it out the bag ripped and presents fell out all over the street and then I saw, what was to change my life forever, the Buckaroo I had asked Santa for fall out of the bag. Devastated I climbed back into my duvet. How could they have lied to me all these years? I cried myself to sleep that night it was all too much for a boy of nineteen to take in!!!
Recently, I read about a couple (aherm!) who told their four year old that if she saw the red light flash on the alarm sensor in the corner of the room it meant Father Christmas was watching her and checking that she was being a good girl. That’s just cruel, like telling your children that when the Ice-cream Van plays a tune it means that it’s ran out of ice-cream!
Being a Christian can be fun. I now use my God-given ability in making people laugh in serving God. But even for those of us who laugh a lot there are times when we go through life when we find it hard to smile.
The Bible says, everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. He sets the time to laugh, and the time to cry. He sets the time for sorrow and the time for joy; a time for building and a time for breaking down; the time for mourning and the time for dancing; the time for kissing and the time for not kissing!
Ah! Well! Must go, Josh’s Elvis suit needs ironing – I don’t know where he gets if from???
With love, Kesh x
The value of money . . .
The Value Of Money. It can buy a house, but not a home. It can buy a bed, but not sleep. It can buy a clock, but not Time It can buy you a Book, but not Knowledge. It can buy you a Position, but not Respect. It can buy you Medicine, but not Health. It can buy you Blood, but not Life
So you see money isn't everything and it often causes pain and suffering. I tell you this because I am your Friend, and as your Friend I want to take away your pain and suffering! So send me all your money and I will suffer for you! Cash only please!
Big Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Mary Healy Dooley who celebrated a ‘mature’ birthday recently. Now you have to start acting like a middle-aged Mammy, Mary……….two chances!
Fr.Sean Breen has got to three score and ten in the last few weeks. Well done. Keep the winners coming. Go n-eiri an bothar leat.
WELL DONE to Orlaith Deegan who was recently conferred with a Master Degree in Business and Entrepreneurship; congratulations also to her brother Eamonn who was conferred with his degree in Computer Engineering. Good month for the Deegans of Bishopsland with Daddy Eamonn being nominated for Person of the Year Award.
Congratulations to Kevin Daly, Donode and Jane Hehir, Dublin on their recent engagement – we wish them all the best for their big day in June.
To Jimmy & Margaret Pearse currently celebrating their 40th Wedding Anniversary.
Mother & Toddler Group – as last month
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Tossing Pancakes for Tallaght!
Once again the young people of Ballymore Eustace came up trumps for the National pancake party in aid of the National children’s hospital in Tallaght. In total €250.50 was raised and a net figure of €225.50 is on its way to National children’s hospital after expenses of €25 were deducted. The expenses figure was as low as it could possibly be, with people donating their own dressings etc. Scoil Mhuire primary school, Ballymore Eustace community playschool and the Early years baby and toddler group all participated. The children of junior infants, senior infants and first class in Scoil Mhuire raised €142.20, the children at the playschool raised €52.80 and the children attending the baby and toddler group raised €45.50. Many thanks to the staff of Scoil Mhuire and the playschool for their cooperation and enthusiasm and of course, to the children who consumed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IN Reverse please
What a dreadful 6 weeks we’ve had here in Ballymore Eustace with so many well known characters and families hit with bereavements.
The late Mick Fennan, a larger than life character, wit faster than the speed of light – only last year, he was in Mick Murphy’s during race week, slagging all in sundry…
You just couldn’t fail to like Mick, you could be having a serious debate with him on a local topic and he’d come back with an outrageous retort, you’d collapse into laughter…
Bobby Coonan, who achieved national recognition in his chosen career having won 8 National Hunt Championships; he was honoured locally with a Hall of Fame Award in the 70s. A very easy-going likeable man, his long illness must have been hard for his family to witness – please note, The April edition of The Bugle will carry a full tribute to Bobby in association with National Hunt Week at Punchestown.
Phil Conlon, nee Daniels – aged only 54, a non smoker and drinker, who’d have thought his handsome woman, would be plucked from life so prematurely; a granddaughter of Molly and Billy whom we featured in last month’s edition, Phil’s daughter Fiona is married to Mick Sammon and lives locally (her sister Geraldine lives in Liffey Heights).
Joan Browne – God, I was shocked at the quick demise of Joan; she is only a few years older than I and she was such a great mother, always worrying about the children getting the homework done and ‘getting on’; originally from Sligo, Joan had many good friends and relations who will miss her dearly.
Mary Burke of Weavers Row; aged 83, Mary was predeceased by Liam in 1982 yet she continued to life independently at her home with the assistance of kind neighbours and friends.
To our printers Frances and Noel Clare, we extend our condolences on the death of Mrs Jean Kelly, Frances’s mother
At the time of going to press, we have learned of the sad death of Jimmy Farrelly, Barretstown; one of our oldest citizens, we extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Nancy and son, Robert.
Happy Birthday to Mary Healy Dooley who celebrated a ‘mature’ birthday recently. Now you have to start acting like a middle-aged Mammy, Mary……….two chances!
Fr.Sean Breen has got to three score and ten in the last few weeks. Well done. Keep the winners coming. Go n-eiri an bothar leat.
WELL DONE to Orlaith Deegan who was recently conferred with a Master Degree in Business and Entrepreneurship; congratulations also to her brother Eamonn who was conferred with his degree in Computer Engineering. Good month for the Deegans of Bishopsland with Daddy Eamonn being nominated for Person of the Year Award.
Congratulations to Kevin Daly, Donode and Jane Hehir, Dublin on their recent engagement – we wish them all the best for their big day in June.
To Jimmy & Margaret Pearse currently celebrating their 40th Wedding Anniversary.
Mother & Toddler Group – as last month
_____________________________________________
Tossing Pancakes for Tallaght!
Once again the young people of Ballymore Eustace came up trumps for the National pancake party in aid of the National children’s hospital in Tallaght. In total €250.50 was raised and a net figure of €225.50 is on its way to National children’s hospital after expenses of €25 were deducted. The expenses figure was as low as it could possibly be, with people donating their own dressings etc. Scoil Mhuire primary school, Ballymore Eustace community playschool and the Early years baby and toddler group all participated. The children of junior infants, senior infants and first class in Scoil Mhuire raised €142.20, the children at the playschool raised €52.80 and the children attending the baby and toddler group raised €45.50. Many thanks to the staff of Scoil Mhuire and the playschool for their cooperation and enthusiasm and of course, to the children who consumed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IN Reverse please
What a dreadful 6 weeks we’ve had here in Ballymore Eustace with so many well known characters and families hit with bereavements.
The late Mick Fennan, a larger than life character, wit faster than the speed of light – only last year, he was in Mick Murphy’s during race week, slagging all in sundry…
You just couldn’t fail to like Mick, you could be having a serious debate with him on a local topic and he’d come back with an outrageous retort, you’d collapse into laughter…
Bobby Coonan, who achieved national recognition in his chosen career having won 8 National Hunt Championships; he was honoured locally with a Hall of Fame Award in the 70s. A very easy-going likeable man, his long illness must have been hard for his family to witness – please note, The April edition of The Bugle will carry a full tribute to Bobby in association with National Hunt Week at Punchestown.
Phil Conlon, nee Daniels – aged only 54, a non smoker and drinker, who’d have thought his handsome woman, would be plucked from life so prematurely; a granddaughter of Molly and Billy whom we featured in last month’s edition, Phil’s daughter Fiona is married to Mick Sammon and lives locally (her sister Geraldine lives in Liffey Heights).
Joan Browne – God, I was shocked at the quick demise of Joan; she is only a few years older than I and she was such a great mother, always worrying about the children getting the homework done and ‘getting on’; originally from Sligo, Joan had many good friends and relations who will miss her dearly.
Mary Burke of Weavers Row; aged 83, Mary was predeceased by Liam in 1982 yet she continued to life independently at her home with the assistance of kind neighbours and friends.
To our printers Frances and Noel Clare, we extend our condolences on the death of Mrs Jean Kelly, Frances’s mother
At the time of going to press, we have learned of the sad death of Jimmy Farrelly, Barretstown; one of our oldest citizens, we extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Nancy and son, Robert.
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