Issue
118: 12th July, 2024
Happy Campers in IRD Duhallow
Irish Girl Guides Have a Wonderful Weekend at IRD
Members of the Irish Girl Guides from the Southwest Region spent four days camping in the James O’Keeffe grounds. Our camp was titled Camp Revive 2024, reviving campcraft skills, and our theme was based on SDGs and 14 and 15 –Life Below Water and Life on Land.
There were one hundred and fifty members camping over the four days and included Brownies (7 – 10), Guides (10 – 14) Senior Branch members over 14 and adult Leaders, who came from Boherbue, Cork City, Carrigtwohill, Cobh, Macroom, Blarney, Dunmanway, Crosshaven, Bandon, Villierstown.
The many activities included in the camp were outdoor cooking, pioneering, learning knots for everyday use and to hoist the flag, a ramble to The Island Woods to study life under water with Tom Ankettell, painting vegetable markers, making scarecrows and planting for Rachel in the IRD garden, camp fires, mini-Olympics and most of all meeting members from all parts of the SW Region and making friends. Despite the many downpours that we experienced every so often, everyone took part wholeheartedly in the activities, no rain was going to stop us enjoying ourselves.
■See pages 14 & 15
Cullen Pipe Band
Alice Golden Takes Gold
McAuliffe Gathering
Editors Note
As summer unfolds, Duhallow is abuzz with recent happenings. Here’s a glimpse of events in this issue. We’re delighted to announce the new opening of the Claddagh Day Service in Millstreet. This invaluable resource promises support, companionship and a warm welcome to all. The McAuliffe Clan gathered from around the world and celebrated their heritage with the Clan gathering in Newmarket. Kanturk announced their town centre’s regeneration plan to enhance public spaces. Family and friends gathered for a fun filled day in Rylane. And finally, the talented actors of Glen Theatre are taking their play on tour to both Cork and Dublin! You don’t want to miss it. We appreciate your readership and support as always.
- Brendon
Want to send us something? The next issue of Discover Duhallow releases on July 26th!
Gerard O’Meara Exhibition
Mallow Library | 20th June – 17th July 2024
Prolific, Cork born photographer, Gerard O’Meara has very generously donated his archive of photos to Cork County Council Library and Arts Service. To mark this substantial donation Mallow Library will host an exhibition show -casing a taster of Gerard’s creations.
Gerard took up photography at the age of 14 when his parents Jim and Aileen gave him a birthday present of a Zeiss Ikon Nettar camera. He received his first professional commission just four years later. Over his long and varied career, he photographed food, weddings, portraits, aerial, sports, nature, theatre, advertising, landscapes, fashion, buildings, interiors and much more.
Contact Details | T: 022-21821 | E: mallow.library@corkcoco.ie
Email: Discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com Phone: 029-60633 Facebook:
Duhallow News
RATHMORE
Gneeveguilla Community Facility Group reminds you that Share the Bucket takes place weekly. The draw is every Friday evening in Teach Fáilte at 8.30 pm and can be viewed live on our Gneeveguilla Community Facility Group Facebook Page.
This week’s jackpot winner; Eileen O’Riordan, won €202, Tickets cost €2 each or 3 for €5. They are available at Teach Fáilte and can be bought online at https://tinyurl.com/y2ade5om.or in local businesses where you see the Green Share the bucket.
Your support is greatly supported, and all funds will go towards our new proposed community facility. We would like to thank our local businesses, shops and pubs who continue to support our project.
Michael John Dineen RIP Ard Mhuire, Rathmore. He was a great community man . A member of the Community Hall Bingo every Friday night, Marian Players Panto Group, Chairman of Rathmore, Burial Ground Committee and Rathmore Church helper. He
worked with Cadbury’s for many years. On the evening of his funeral, there was a large guard Honour was at church.
Sympathies to the family and friends of Nora Kelly (née Buckley) RIP. Ardanaenig, Killarney. Her family, especially her sons - Brian Kelly Rathmore & Seamus Kelly ; owner of Kelly’s Londis, Rathmore
Sympathies to families of Betty Connell RIP Knockatee, Cordal Formerly of Adriville, Scartaglen and Kearney’s Bar, Castleisland.
Rathmore Gneeveguilla Community Games
A big thank you to all the children who represented our area at the County Athletics Event, held in An Riocht, Castleisland recently, especially for those children who took part in this event, for the very first time. Children who took part as follows:
Girls: U8 / 60m - Fiadh Fleming U10 / 100m - Sadie Murphy
TUREENCAHILL
Clothes Bank Collection Sat 13th July @ 10am in Tureencahill Community Centre. Please all items of clothing shoes sheets etc. Must be bagged. NO DUVETS PLEASE.
Tureencahill Community Group would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended our 10th Anniversary Celebrations Weekend which was a fantastic success. We also have to thank all the generous sponsors and everyone who contributed in any way. It wouldn’t have been the fantastic success that it was so thanks to everyone involved.
Congratulations to Kerry Ladies Football team, their Management and Danielle O’Leary on their win over Meath.
Best of luck to Kerry Ladies football team in the 2024 TG4 All Ireland Senior Semi Finals! Kerry v Armagh Sat 20th JulyTBC) Glenisk O’Connor Park.
Millstreet Seniors are Unstoppable!
Introducing: Claddagh Day Services
Claddagh, our new day service in the heart of Millstreet, North Cork, is now operational. It is a place where service users come to interact, participate in activities, relax and be themselves. Claddagh has all the relevant facilities to cater for our service users and their desires e.g. a beauty room for nail painting, a cinema room in which to relax and watch movies as well as a kitchenette for baking. Claddagh also has a communal area for service users to mingle and interact with ease.
Staff have worked together to make Claddagh a happy and comfortable space for service users. We currently have four service users who are thriving and coming out of themselves. It is rewarding for staff to see these young people flourish and thrive. Knowing that we have made a difference, makes us value the work that we do.
Away from the hub, we venture to new places: train rides; the beach or walks in Killarney. We recently went to Gougane Barra where we visited the church, admired the scenery, browsed
through the shops and stopped at local cafes for tea and buns.
We assist our service users to integrate into society with ease and help them enjoy aspects of life that have become unfamiliar to them due
to Covid 19.
Undeniably, it was a challenging time for many, however the lack of services and consistency for people with additional needs was disheartening. When families found out about the services and supports offered by Barróg for their loved ones, they were truly welcomed.
The Claddagh Hub is going from strength to strength, full of excitement, acceptance, positivity and motivation. We look
forward to welcoming new service users in the coming months and are grateful for the role we are playing in their lives. Onwards and upwards.
-
Liz Chow, Claddagh Acting Team Leader.
McAuliffe Clan Unites in Newmarket
The 9th McAuliffe Clan Gathering took place in Newmarket from the 28th of June. The gathering is a celebration where McAuliffes from around the world reconnect with their tribe. The event kicked off with a parade to the McAuliffe Cultúrlann, led by the Newmarket Pipe Band, followed by a concert by Meadbh Walsh and her band. Finishing with a gala dinner and election of a new chieftan of the clan.
Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald
Julie McAuliffe Tzoukos, Australia, daughter of the late John Paul McAuliffe, is congratulated by Mossie Angland after being elected Chieftainess of the McAuliffe Clan during the Gathering
Philip Taylor’s new Book ‘The McAuliffe Story’ was launched during the McAuliffe Clan Gathering
Kenny Graham with Meghan, Mary and Arthur Houllihan, Boston, pictured at the Welcoming Concert for the McAuliffe Clan Gathering at the Cultúrlann
Brian and Maria Houllihan, Boston, pictured at the McAuliffe Clan Gathering at the Cultúrlann in Newmarket
Community Survey Launched for Kanturk Town Centre First Regeneration Plan
Kanurk is set to benefit from a €30,000 funding allocation for its Town Centre First Regeneration Plan. The plan aims to create a thriving, attractive hub for residents and visitors alike, fostering community growth and development. They are calling on Kanturk residents and business owners together with the wider community, to have your say in developing a Town Centre First Regeneration Plan for Kanturk.
The aim of the Town Centre First Policy is to create town centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit. The plan focuses on enhancing infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, lighting and public spaces such as parks, green areas, and recreational facilities which will be improved.
Kanturk’s rich history will be
celebrated through heritage preservation efforts. Historical buildings and landmarks will be restored and integrated into the town center.
Cork County Council have launched a survey, which will remain open until Wednesday 31st of July, to gather feedback on the plan. The survey can be found at www.corkcoco.ie Printed copies
of the survey are also available at Kanturk library.
Next steps will involve focused consultation with key stakeholder groups to mark the start of the plan development process. For queries, contact Cork County Council’s Town Regeneration Office at townregenerationoffice@corkcoco. ie
Newmarket Pipe Band led the Parade opening the McAuliffe Clan Gathering in Newmarket
The Fun Never Stops in Rylane
By MARTINA CASEY
Sunshine greeted the community of Rylane and visitors to Rylane Community Park for their annual Fun Day. This year was special as it was the first time Rylane Community Park was used for this event.
The Tea Tent buzzed with chatter and laughter as friends and neighbours enjoyed cups of tea and coffee, along with an array of homemade baking.
Children had a blast with various sports activities organized for them, their competitive spirit and cheers filled the air.
was the Dog Show, where proud owners paraded their canine companions before a judge who had a difficult time selecting winners.
The BBQ, manned by Chef Paul and his team, was a constant hub of activity. The mouth-watering aroma of burgers being cooked was hard to resist.
Adding to the festive atmosphere was Aaron the Balloonman, who captivated the children with his balloon models. The Nail Bar was another popular attraction, adding a touch of glamour to the day. South Cork Civil Defence were also in attendance just in case the excitement of the day became too
much for anyone.
One of the more unique attractions was brought by the Friends of the Dripsey Rivers group. They introduced their creatively designed “monster” that roamed the field, causing a delightful stir.
The entire event was a testament to the sense of community in Rylane. People of all ages came together, participated in various activities, and created wonderful memories. The laughter, smiles, and shared experiences highlighted the spirit of Rylane, making the Fun Day a great success.
Martina Casey with members of South Cork Civil Defence
Friends of the Dripsey Rivers joined in on the fun. And how!
Nora Saey brought some friends along, her alpacas: Clara, Snowflake & her baby Snow Drop.
The Casey Family who organised the Sheaf Throwing event.
Duhallow News
Danny & Pauline Kelleher enjoying the sunshine
MC on the day, Colm Burke, with Pat Foley
Johnny Sheehan and Ann-Marie O’Connell
Mary, David & Anna Bond, Saoirse Lane & Emma Louise McCarthy
Niamh Casey & Elizabeth Barron
Mary O’Sullivan, Dara Mangan, Kate O’Sullivan, Jack Mangan
Joan Crowley, Willie Dennehy & Linda Grimes
Gig Guide
What’s On In Duhallow
Edel
Quinn Hall, Kanturk
Taekwondo
Thursday 6-8pm
All Welcome!
Kanturk Fitness Classes
Venue: USA stores, Greenane Street, Kanturk
Mondays
9.30am: Beginners Fitness
6pm: Boxercise
Tuesday
9am: Legs, Bums, and Tums
6pm: Dance Fitness
Wednesday 6pm: Dance Fitness
Friday
9.30am: Circuits
€10 pay as you go or 6 classes for €50
Message Deirdre O’Sullivan or text 087 9273672 for details/ bookings.
Scoil Lasair Camp 2024
Venue: An Chultúrlann Newmarket
Date: 22nd-26th July
A fun and active summer camp through Irish for primary school children from 1st to 6th class. Sports, music, art, dance and much more!
Price: 1st child €100
2nd child €90
3rd child €80
4th child €75
Banteer Bingo
Venue: Banteer Community Centre
Time: Every Thursday @ 8:30pm
Tureencahill Summer Bridge
Venue: Tureencahill Community Centre, P51 T66349
Time: Wednesdays at 1pm
Friendly, non-competitive, enjoy a cup of tea!
For more info, contact 087 647 6536. All welcome!
CYMS Hall Dancing
Venue: CYMS Hall Newmarket, P52 V596
Admission: €10
Time: 9:00 - 11:30pm
Organised by John Joe Dances 087 9735113
July
Friday 12th
Superstar Effie Neill
Friday 19th
Andy Feery Band
Freemount Social Dancing
Venue: Freemount Community Center, P56 P893
Admission: €10
Time: Sundays 3:00pm-5:30pm
July
Sunday 7th
Teddy & Cathal Barry
Sunday 14th
Neily O’Connor
Sunday 21st
Muriel O’Connor and Fran Curry
Sunday 28th
Dermot Lyons
Social Pickleball Kanturk
Venue: Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk
Time: Every Tuesday at 8:00pm
Men and women 18+ €5 per person
Contact 085-2828654 info@duhallowpickleball.com
IRD Duhallow Led Walk
An organised led walkwill take place on the second section of the Duhallow Way on Wednesday 17th July, meeting at Shrone Church at 6:45pm. This will involve walking a boggy area so under foot conditions will be difficult and boots will be necessary. Tea and Coffee after the walk as usual.
Registration is essential. Please contact 029 - 60633 or 086-0849955
IRD Duhallow AGM
The AGM of IRD Duhallow and the launch of its Annual Progress Report 2023 - 2024 will take place on Monday 29th of July at 7:30pm in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket.
Cullen Pipe Band Triumphs at All-Ireland Championships!
Cullen Pipe Band clinched the title of Best Pipe Corps in Grade 4A at the All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships held on Saturday, July 6th. The prestigious competition took place at Newbridge House and Gardens, Donabate, Co. Dublin, where nine bands competed for top honours. Cullen’s exceptional performance secured them third place overall, earning them the Martin Dempsey Trophy.
Pipe Major Con Houlihan accepting the 3rd place Martin Dempsey Trophy
Duhallow News
Banteer Notes
Banteer Sportsfield/Park Winners
Winners in the first draw were €1500 Sheila Jones €500 Nata Casey, Glantane €100 each to Banteer Youth Club, Bridle O Riordan, Annemarie Lyons, Donie Regan and Gerard Leahy
Tickets are available from members. Please support as your support helps us make it better for all users.
Plans for this year include:
• subject to Sports Capital Funding, upgrade of old dressing rooms,
• goal posts replacement
• sanding/aeration works
• planting of trees /shrubs
• boot washes
• café equipment
• solar PV
• and more
The regular annual operation and maintenance works are very important to maintain the facility to the highest level. These costs are now approx €40k p.a + which are funded by our annual draw.
Banteer Underage Soccer Camp
Weds 24th, Thurs 25th and Fri 26th July - Banteer underage soccer club coaching camp. For boys & girls from 6 to 16 years approx. in their own groups. Time: 11am to 3pm. Registration starts at 10.30am on first day. Venue is Banteer Sportsfield. Fee: €35 per person paid on the first day. Camp is confined to Banteer Underage Soccer, the greater Banteer Community area and to those who always support the camp. Everyone should bring a packed lunch and own water bottle. No mobile phones to be used while camp is in progress.
- John Sheehan, Coach
Text Alert Money Due For 2024
Please pay to your local Community Council members. Note: nonpayment will mean you will no longer get Community Alert texts.
Please forward €10 to Norah O’Riordan Nadd, Eleanor Duggan, Denis Withers, Mary Cahill, or John Buckley
Banteer Macra News
To stay up to date with sports and social events please follow Banteer Macra social media page on Instagram and Facebook. New members are always welcome to try something new and get involved in the community! Banteer Macra are taking part in a fundraising walk to raise funds to support the running of Macra in the future, promoting what Macra is and hopefully gathering some interest for new members.
Railway Project Complete
The major construction project at Banteer Railway station is now complete and will be of major benefit to all users of Banteer station with official opening in mid July.
Thanks to Irish Rail and Jons contractors who have worked closely with local stakeholders in ensuring the project progressed with minimum delays and issues.
Irish Rail and Jons also express their thanks to all neighbours and the local community for their help and co operation.
Irish Rail has also completed the surfacing of the laneway at the rear of the railway station, adjoining the Sportsfield area. The local Community Council and Banteer Tidy Towns are also working with Irish Rail on other improvements at the railway to make a safer exit using one way system , additional parking at the Station and painting of fencing etc.
Camp Revive 2024
As you can see above, the girls got stuck into various activities inside and out. From working in IRD Duhallow’s poly tunnel to outside by the river where angling expert, Tom Anketell gave them an insight into water life.
The youngest campers attending the weekend were Roisin O’Connor and Mia Walsh - Boherbue Unit, here with Irish Girl Guide leader, Mary O’Connor.
Thanks to IRD Duhallow’s Helen O’Sullivan and everyone in IRD for allowing the Irish Girl Guides to camp on their grounds. The help and support that we received from Helen and her team was a key factor in making our camp a success.
Words by Deirdre Henley.
Photos by Tadhg Curtin, Rhys MacPhail on the Drone, and the Irish Girl Guides.
Sunrise. Sunset. Weather be damned, the girls got on with it anyway!
Duhallow News Minister Humphreys Announces €20million Community Centre Investment Fund
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced €20 million in funding to support the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres across the country.
Under the Community Centres Investment Fund 2024, community organisations will be supported with grants of between €10,000€100,000 to develop and enhance their existing community facilities.
Announcing the funding today, Minister Humphreys said:
“I’m delighted to announce a new round of €20 million in funding to support the upgrade, renovation and refurbishment of community centres across the country.
“In good times and bad, our community centres provide the physical space for friends, neighbours and those who are socially isolated to come together.
“This funding is all about giving a helping hand to our local community groups to improve their own local community spaces.
“I am encouraging all local groups to consider how a grant could support them in developing their community facility. Whether it be to upgrade the kitchen, the provision of toilet facilities, or perhaps to carry out small renovation works – this funding is designed to support community groups to make the improvements they need in their Community Centre.”
How to Apply
The ‘Community Centre Investment Fund 2024 –Refurbishment’ will provide grants for projects from €10,000 up to a maximum of €100,000 towards capital costs.
This is broken down into two categories of funding:
Category 1:
Small scale projects/improvements to facilities: €10,000 - €25,000.
Category 2:
Larger scale projects: €25,001 to €100,000.
The scheme will be delivered in conjunction with Pobal.
All applicants must register as ‘users’ on the online portal here in advance of the application process which will open on 29th July 2024.
Groups that applied for this fund previously will not need to register again but should check that their details are still correct.
Groups are strongly advised to get their application and paperwork ready in advance of the application process opening on 29th July.
The closing date for applications will be 29th August 2024.
There will be a number of
online information events to assist potential applicants, the first of which will take place on Tuesday 25th June.
All materials to support applicants including access to the online portal, template application form, guidelines, FAQ, links to tutorials and details on information sessions can be found at the Department of Rural & Community Development website here.
Minister Humphreys concluded:
“The funding I am announcing today brings the total investment I have provided for Community Centres since 2022 to over €95 million.
“I have already visited many of the projects that have received funding under this initiative –and it’s clear to me the positive difference the investment is having on the ground.
“I want to once again urge all community groups to engage in this process and I look forward to seeing the type of projects that come forward.
“We have tried to make the application process as simple as possible and we will also be hosting a series of information sessions over the summer months to help give support and advice to Community Groups when putting their applications together.”
Minister Heather Humphreys
Sunshine Guilt - Just let it go!
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket
On a lovely July evening when your days’ work is done and the balmy evening is ahead, you know you should be out sitting in the garden but you’re watching the soaps on TV instead. Similarly, on a warm August morning, the day is heating up but the kids are all in their rooms with their devices. What do these scenes have in common? The answer is guilt, more specifically sunshine guilt. Yes it is a thing- sunshine guilt. It occurs when the sun calls us to get outside and soak it up- but what of we can’t, or we don’t want to? Sunshine guilt refers to the pressure you feel to make the
most of all the sunny days we get. But, we can’t just down tools when the sun comes out and go to the beach, we have to work or fulfil other commitments. The main thing that drives this guilt for us all is the scarcity mind-set- we don’t get a lot of sunshine so we believe it to be a fleeting thing and we feel guilty because we won’t get the day back once it’s gone.
So how do we spare ourselves the burden of guilt? Well, we need to start with our mind, our thinking. So, maybe we had to stay indoors on the sunny day, but we spent it being productive, or fulfilling commitments that make us dependable. Another way to lessen the guilt is to drop the ‘all-ornothing’ mind-set. So, we have to work, but could we have our lunch
outside? Or get out in the evening? Self-compassion is a great way of lessening guilt also, being kind to ourselves, we are allowed to feel disappointed or annoyed at the situation, but we are not allowed to criticise ourselves for it.
Remember, spending time in the sun might be seen as an ideal way to spend time, but it might not be your favourite pastime and that is OK. Drop the guilt around it and do what is right for you.
Summer Skin Care
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store
Whether you are heading overseas or holidaying close to home, it’s really important that you take care of your skin. Use a good quality mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens sit on the surface of the skin and reflect the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, whilst chemical sunscreens sink into the skin and act more like a sponge. Using mineral sun screens reduces our exposure to chemical ingredients. They are also ideal for children and people with sensitive skin. We have several mineral sunscreens in New Leaf from 15 spf up to 50 spf. Doctor Mahers skin care products are another great choice for anyone wishing to reduce the
number of chemicals that they are putting on their skin. Made in Kerry using a carefully guarded secret technique, there are probably no better natural skin care products on the market. They are fragrance free and contain a huge number of beneficial ingredients. They suit all skin types and can help conditions like acne, rosacea and psoriasis. Drink plenty of water and pay attention to your diet. Omega oils are really important for healthy skin as well as benefiting brain and heart health. If you don’t eat two portions of oily fish each week you may benefit from taking a supplement. Pharmanord’s Omega 7 is a great vegan supplement for the skin, it is made from sea buckthorn oil and contains Omegas 3, 7, 6 & 9, plus natural vitamin E
Collage supplements have been found to improve skin hydration and elasticity, they can also be beneficial to the hair and nails. Somega Collagen Plus is a great choice as it contains hydrolysed collagen, skin essential vitamins and minerals, hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts, including from the juice of delicious blood red oranges grown in Italy and clinically proven to help reduce the harmful effects of sunlight and support healthy skin aging.
Antioxidants like beta carotene and astaxanthin can also have positive effects on skin health. Carotenoids can help protect the skin against the effects of UV rays and improve skin elasticity, wrinkles, dry skin, age spots and also support eye health.
Sixth Class Student Alice Golden Takes Gold For Dromagh National School
Our sixth-class student, Alice Golden won gold in The Shane MacThomáis Essay Competition for Primary Schools open to all 5th and 6th class students across the country. The staff and children all travelled to Dublin on the 17th of June after the news of the win was communicated to the school.
The essay was to be based on the title “Explore the story of Dublin’s past, which was based on the students favourite historical Dublin figure or something about the history of the city itself. Alice
based her essay on “The Life of Hanna Sheehy Skeffington.”
Alice was presented with her gold medal at the graveside of Hanna Sheehy Skeffington. In Alice’s thank you speech at the graveside she said: - “Hanna Sheehy Skeffington was a rural lady from Duhallow who travelled with her family to live to Dublin. Little did we think in Dromagh National School, from Duhallow, we would be in Dublin today being presented with this wonderful award”. Alice also thanked the
competition organisers for inspiring her and her school friends in the world of Irish History.
Alice won a specially engraved Gold Medal, a trip to Glasnevin for the school, a One for All €250 voucher and a Certificate of Participation.
We want to thank 103FM and Iarnód Éireann for congratulating Alice, the school and wishing the children a memorable day in Dublin. It is a day to remember for the whole school community in the years ahead!
Alice receives her Gold medal at the graveside
Alice speaking at the graveside
Alice with her brothers Paul and Eoin
Alice with her Certificate of Participation
At the crypt of Daniel O‘Connell
The key to the crypt of Daniel O’Connell
Banteer Macra’s New Dream Team: Ready for an Exciting Year Ahead!
Banteer Macra, an organization catering to individuals aged 17 to 35 in the Banteer area had their annual general meeting on the 20th of June in Lyre Hall. They are thrilled to introduce their fresh committee for the 2024/2025 term. The committee are as follows:
• Chairperson: Joseph Murphy
• Secretary: Orla O’Sullivan
• Treasurer: Stephan Murphy
• Public Relations Officers (PRO): Hannah O’Sullivan/Lisa O’Keeffe
• Sports/Social: John Cashman/ Elaine Herlihy
• Young Farmer Development Group (YFDG): Caroline O’Keeffe
• President: Amanda O’Sullivan
Whether you’re a seasoned Macra enthusiast or a curious newcomer, their doors are wide open. Best of luck to the committee!
Georgina at the crypt of Daniel O’Connell
The girls having a break
The Wonderful Witness of Blessed Chiara Luce Badano.
By TOM DENNEHY
Chiara Badano was born on 29th of October 1971 in the small town of Sasello in Italy. Her father was a truck driver and her mother worked at home taking care of Chiara. As a child she was brought up to love Jesus and to share her toys, talents and joy with others. She dreamed of going to Africa as a doctor and even as a child, sent her savings to the missions for poor children. She used to listen very attentively to the parables of the Gospel and prepared carefully for her first Holy Communion. When she was eight she came in touch with the Focolare movement and was captivated by its Christian ideals. She began a correspondence with Chiara Lubich, foundress of Focolore. To her, she confided all her trials, right to the end. Her special joy of living shine through her letters and testimonies. Her vision of life was positive and inspiring.
Chiara had several good friends and enjoyed normal teenage pastimes such as playing music, dancing, singing, hiking, tennis and swimming.
Chiara attended Holy Mass regularly and her love for Jesus radiated within her. When she was sixteen years old, she had a life changing experience in Rome with the Focolore movement. Chiara had an encounter with Jesus and then she had Luce, meaning light, added to her name. This encounter with Jesus meant she now had Him as her light in life. He alone would guide her way. Chiara was a genuine friend of Jesus.
During the summer of 1988, Chiara felt pain in her shoulder while playing tennis. It continued to pain her, so she went to the doctor and had some tests. The doctors then discovered she had a rare and painful form of bone cancer.
In February 1989 she faced her first surgery which left her with little hope. When she lost the use of her legs, she underwent another painful operation which was unsuccessful. The comforting presence of Jesus, who had died on the cross for her, kept her going in her toughest moments. People who visited her received love, strength and hope.
Chiara Luce went to Heaven on the 7th. of October 1990. She had planned everything for her funeral; from the songs to her dress ( white like a bride’s) adding a special request to her mum. She asked her that while she was dressing her, she would repeat the words, “Now Chiara Luce is seeing Jesus.” Her goodbye to her mother was, “Be happy, because I am.” Her final gift to the world was to donate the cornea of her eyes. What marks her life as extraordinary is her love of Jesus and the acceptance of God’s plan for her life, even though it was against her wishes. Chiara loved Jesus so much that she faced her painful days at the hospital saying, “For you Jesus, if you want it, I want it too.”
Chiara’s message to all of us is to say “yes” to God’s plan for our life, even if it is entirely opposite to what we want, because His plan has always a reason and a purpose.
“For surely I know the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord. Plans for peace, not for disaster, to give you hope and a future.”
- Jeremiah 29.11.
Chiara Luce Badano was declared Blessed on September 25th. 2010, in the presence of 25,000 young people from all over
the world at the Shrine of Our Lady of Divine Love in Rome. The miracle attributed to Chiara was the miraculous healing of a boy who was given 48 hours to live due to meningitis. A newly built church was named in her honour in Sironi, India in September 2015. Her short life continues to inspire especially the youth and never ceases to amaze.
Prayer:
Eternal Father, source of all good, we give thanks for the wonderful witness of Blessed Chiara Luce Badana. Moved by the grace of the Holy Spirit and guided by Jesus, the light of the world, she always believed in your great love, determined to respond to it with all her strength, faithfully abandoning herself to your fatherly will. We humbly pray that you grant also to us the gift of living with you and for you as Chiara Luce did and we ask you with faith the grace that... (mention your intention). We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Chiara Luce Badano
Recruitment Open Evening at Banteer Childcare
Wednesday 24th of July 3-7.30pm.
Calling all ambitious Early Years Educators – we are eager to meet you!
Do you want to be part of a premium team of Educators - where passion meets purpose
Come check out our vibrant facility – you can visit all the childcare rooms including: The nursery and toddler rooms, the preschool and naíonra rooms, the school age childcare rooms and the sensory room. Explore the expansive outdoor play area and sensory garden.
Experience first-hand the inclusive culture at BCC - you will be able to chat with current employees who can tell you about their experience with Banteer Childcare.
We will answer any questions you may have on our competitive rates of pay, permanent contracts, sick pay scheme, profit sharing plan, training bursaries, staff social events and hero awards.
While you mingle, enjoy some light refreshment and let us showcase our plans for expansion and talk to you about how you can join our team where you can make a difference
You don’t want to miss out on this opportunity
Banteer Community Childcare: 029 56727 / info@banteerchildcare.ie
Huge congratulations to our ladies on a great win over St.Peters recently in the non exam league final. Final score - Dromtarriffe 2.12, St.Peters 0.11. Well done to the players, coaches, and all that came to support them.
Hello from Medjugorie!
A recent group pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Group Leader and friend of Discover Duhallow Magazine, Tom Dennehy. Spiritual Directors were Fr. Joe Begley P.P. Killarney and Fr. Danny Broderick P.P. Milltown. All enjoyed a wonderful week.
Glen Theatre Drama Group To Finish Run In Cork And Dublin
By TADHG CURTIN
It has been an amazing past year for the The Glen Theatre Drama group. Launching the 2023 - 2024 season with their second annual one act play festival last autumn, and their first three act play, the hilarious Tearing and Dragging, their recent agm concluded a tremendous year. Well, not quite. The group will be performing three more times over the next month, completing their successful run of performances of the second three act play of their season, John B. Keane’s The Rain at the End of the Summer. The two biggest dates are the Everyman theatre in Cork and the Civic theatre in Dublin. A third date and location will be confirmed shortly. Details for Cork and Dublin are on the following page.
Running since March and having been last performed in Bruach Na Carraige on May, the group saw an unprecedented turnout for the play. It was certainly a risk. The play was little known to even the most ardent John B. fans. Adding to that was the heavy
The cast in rehearsal. There was some rough weather during these meet ups. One may have been tempted to stay by the fireside on nights like these but such is the spirit of the group that they prevailed. Ice, wind, rain. Didn’t matter. What pushed the group was the knowledge that it would be well worth it with audiences taking their time to attend their performances.
themes of the piece. Ultimately word got around that it was a work worth checking and many did.
The group wishes to thank everyone who supports the group and the theatre. Always open to members, we hope to see you all again this autumn!
Sean O’Deadaigh’s Our House Ablaze is set to run in September.
For more information, phone 029 56239 or 087 7558752.
It wasn’t all serious drama. For all the heaviness in Rain, the preceding Tearing and Dragging, a comedy drama by Hank Regan, had the crowds laughing. The above pictures were taken on the final night of each performance. John B. Keane’s daughter, Joanne Keane, came for Rain’s final performnace in Banteer. It’s a bittersweet feeling that final night. Months of hard work coming to an end. Everyone goes back to doing their own thing. But there are memories created with these productions not just for the audiences but the people involved. Memories for a lifetime. That is one of the great aspects of the groups legacy. And here is to creating many more!
ABOVE: A collage of moments from the play. Like the Irish weather, the range of emotions are all over the place. The audience never knows what’s coming; whether it might be a laugh or gasp, or maybe both!
BELOW: If you haven’t already, you might, or recommend to someone you know, to check the group out at the upcoming venues on the upcoming dates.
August 23rd & 24th, 8pm. The Civic, Tallaght, Co. Dublin
Ticket Prices: €22.
Concession: €20
Box Office: 01 462 7477 www.civictheatre.ie
Duhallow News
Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services
Across
1. Knowledgeable person in a particular field (6)
3. Receive something offered (6)
8. Circuitous (7)
10. Luxury craft (5)
11. Prominent (5)
12. Out of the ordinary (7)
13. In front (5)
15. Felt pain (5)
20. Frequent patron (7)
22. Mindful (5)
24. Once more (5)
25. Imbue (7)
26. Firstborn (6)
27. Request for a sum of Money (6)
Down
1. Oar (6)
2. Not at any time (5)
4. Aquatic South American rodent (5)
5. Leave out (7)
6. Aggregates (6)
7. Progeny (5)
9. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5)
14. Emaciated (7)
16. Item of furniture (5)
17. Colonnade (6)
18. Juicy fruit (5)
19. Breakfast food (6)
21. Parts of a chain (5)
23. Die away (5)
Solution: Issue 117, June 28th, 2024
To
Complete the crossword and post with your name and contact details to:
Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co. Cork
Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Terms & Conditions:
Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, July 19th 2024.
First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.
Congratulations to Peggy Cronin, Blackpool, who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!
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