Ardagh/Carrigkerry Parish Notes from Tom Aherne

OSKAR REHEARSALS: On Wednesday September 20, the cast members of the 7 films for the St Kieran’s GAA Oskar’s night on Saturday November 11, commenced rehearsals at Ardagh Hall. The films are The Snapper, Veronica Guerin, Fr Ted, Calendar Girls, Peaky Blinders, The Field and the Bridesmaids. The rehearsals will be held up to Wednesday October 11and then the filming will be held at select locations. The seven groups have been fundraising in recent weeks and will continue to do so in the coming months. All the funds raised will go towards the new field development which is progressing well. On Saturday November 11, the doors open at 6.30pm in the Devon Inn Hotel Templeglantine. The show starts at 8pm. Tickets cost €30. The show is produced by Kevin Rowe Events, and it promises to be an amazing night. Save the date.

HERITAGE MEETING: St Kieran’s Heritage Association held a meeting in Ardagh Hall on Thursday September 21 to put plans in place to mark the 100 anniversary of the arrival of the Gardai to Ardagh village. They arrived at the Railway Station on September 20, 2023, and served until fire destroyed the barracks on November 10, 1959. It is at an early stage in the planning and October 20/21 is the dates chosen to commemorate their arrival. It is hoped to hold a march from the Station to the original barrack building with musical accompaniment. It is planned to mark the 175 anniversary of the Irish Tricolour along the way. The search is on for relatives of the members who served in Ardagh over the 36 years. If readers have any information the association would be delighted to receive it. It would be lovely to have some of the relatives present to participate in the proceedings. The next meeting has been provisionally fixed for Thursday October 5, at 7-30pm in Ardagh Hall.

LADIES FOOTBALL: Old Mill lost to St Ailbe’s by 4-7 to 1-8 in the quarter final of the Limerick Ladies Senior Football Championship on Sunday September 17.

SOCCER NEWS: Creeves Celtic lost 3-2 after extra time, away to Newcastle West Town in round 1 of the Munster Junior Cup on Sunday September 17. Donie Nolan and an own goal made up their scorers. In the Desmond Division 3 League Cup Group A Kilcolman Rovers defeated Carrig Celtic 3-2 at home with Mike O’Sullivan 2,and Cormac Murphy scoring and Eoin Liston replied for Carrig Celtic.

LOTTERY DRAW: The Ardagh Development Association and Saint Kieran’s GAA joint weekly lottery draw took place on Monday September 18. The numbers drawn were 18,19,21,24 and there was no winner of the € 14,600 Jackpot. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who received € 40 each: John Murphy c/o Neary’s, Breda Enright Dromrahnee Ardagh, Danny Collum Creeves, Fiona Hennessy Carrigkerry, Liam Flavin Carrigkerry. Next Monday night’s jackpot will be € 14,700. People can play online using club force on the club’s Facebook page, with 6pm on Monday evening the deadline. The tickets are also on sale at the usual outlets, and all support will be appreciated.

RADIO DRAW: Congratulations to Jim Long, Feenagh, who won € 270 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday September 22.The tickets cost € 2, or3 for € 5 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, (including Moloneys Carrigkerry, and Denis Greaney’s Shop Ardagh) or from the radio station. All support will be appreciated. The station can be contacted at 069-66200 if people have news of interest to the West Limerick area.

OSKAR FUNDRAISERS: A number of fundraising events will be held by the St Kieran’s GAA Club in the run up to the Oskar night in the Devon Inn on Saturday November 11. The Bridesmaids cast will be running a number of events beginning with a Bingo Loco event in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Friday September 29. They will hold a clothes collection in Ardagh and Coolcappa on November 4, and 5. The Calendar Girls will be holding a Table Quiz in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Friday October 6. The Snapper group will hold a tractor run in Ardagh on Sunday October 8 with registration at 12.30pm. The cast of” Fr Ted” will hold a fundraising Irish Night in Ardagh Hall on Friday October 13, from 8 to 10pm.

CLUB DRAW: The next Limerick GAA Club draw will be held on Saturday September 30, and announced on the Sports Show on Limerick Live 95.The entry fee is € 10 per month or € 40 for the remaining four draws and € 21,000 will be given out in prize money each month, with a first prize of € 10,000. The star prize for September will be an Apple iPad to the value of € 500. To join contact the local St Kieran’s club members in person, or online through the Club force App with direct options available. The club will receive 50% of all membership received which is vital for the running of it over the year.

SET DANCE CLASSES: With the loss of evening light set dancing classes have resumed in Monagea Parish Hall for the autumn and winter season. They take place on Tuesday from 8.30pm and Thursday nights from 9pm for beginners and advanced and all are welcome. They are very enjoyable nights with lots of exercise, laughs and friendships formed in comfortable surroundings. For more information call 086-3510774. Classes by Timmy Woulfe are also being held in the Marian Hall Moyvane on Mondays at 8pm. Special attention for beginners during the month of September. Set dancing classes resumed in Milford Hall on Wednesdays September 20, from 8pm to 9-30pm. € 6 per class and no partner needed. For further information call 087 7672084.

Set dancing classes commenced in the hall Ballyhahill on Monday September 25, from 8pm to 9-30pm, with Fiona. All are welcome including beginners for a fun night of dance exercise and friendship. Classes will return in the first week of October in the Hall Kilfinny on Monday 2, at 9pm, in Con Colbert Hall Athea Tuesday 3, at 9pm, in Fr Casey’s Clubhouse Abbeyfeale Wednesday 4, at 8-30pm. Set dancing is an ideal weight bearing exercise and strengthens the bones. It is very good for the mind as concentration is needed. It is also good for social interaction and making new friends.

CLOTHES COLLECTION: Kilcolman National School will hold a fundraising clothes collection on Friday September 29. Bags of clothes, shoes, bags, belts, bed linen, (no duvets or pillows) can be dropped to the school shelter.

NIGHT CLASSES: Desmond College Newcastle West have announced details of their Adult Education night classes schedule for Autumn 23, which begin on Wednesday October 4, from 7-9pm. All courses run for 8 weeks, and they cost € 90 each. The 7 courses available to enter for are Drawing and Painting for beginners and intermediate, Machine sewing for beginners (own machine required), Modern Calligraphy for beginners, Sign writing for beginners, Fun with Jewellery for beginners, Cooking and Baking for fun, Apple iPad Course (you must have your own device). For further information please contact Desmond College at 069- 62205.

ÉIGSE MICHAEL HARTNETT: The annual Éigse Michael Hartnett Literary and Arts Festival remembering the late local poet will take place in Newcastle West from Thursday October 5, to Sunday October 8. Ger Greaney from the St Kieran’s Heritage Association will hold a Genealogy class with the Newcastle West Women’s Shed members at the Desmond Complex on Friday October 6 at 11.30am. Pat Mc Loughlin will launch his fifth novel The Unbreakable Dream at the Longcourt Hotel at 6pm on the same day. A packed programme of events is planned and available online on www.eigsemichaelhartnett.ie or by phone on 087-9706232.

MASS CHANGE: Coolcappa/Kilcolman parish weekend Mass on Saturday’s will change from being held in St Colman’s Kilcolman to St Kyran’s Coolcappa from Saturday October 7. It will continue at 7-30 pm for the autumn/winter months.

SET CÉILÍ: A set Céilí will be held in the hall Milford (P56 PN28) on Saturday October 7, from 9pm.(earlier start time this year). It is a very popular venue for West Limerick dancers and a warm welcome awaits all. Music by Donie Nolan Céilí Band and tea and treats served. Admission is € 10.

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Ardagh/Carrigkerry Parish Notes from Tom Aherne

MAURICE GREANEY: The death took place of Maurice Greaney of Milltown, Askeaton and formerly Carrigkerry, peacefully in the excellent care of Milford Care Centre, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, September 12. The Greaney family (Irish parents) arrived from Huddersfield in England to Stacks house in Carrigkerry in 1979. Maurice attended Newcastle West Technical school before moving to Limerick city a few years later. He worked as a male nurse, a prison officer and at security work. He was blessed with many talents being mechanically minded and very good with his hands for doing DIY projects. Outside of family his passions were classic cars and motorcycles and he made numerous trips with family and fellow enthusiasts around Europe and the US.

Reposing took place at Kieran Madigan’s Funeral Home, Main Street, Askeaton on Thursday, September 14, from 5pm, followed by removal to St Mary’s Church Askeaton. The Requiem Mass was Concelebrated on Friday, at 12 noon by Fr Seán O’Longaigh and Fr Muiris O’Connor. The hymns were by Emily Clarke from her CD. Family members participated in the ceremony with readings, prayers of the faithful, offertory gifts and tribute. Symbols of importance to Maurice’s life were taken to the Altar before mass commenced. They included a classic car and motorcycle vest to show his passion for vehicles being a car and motorcycle owner during his lifetime. His prison officer’s cap and medical dictionary to show his years spent in taking caring of others. A cross to indicate his religious beliefs. Fr Seán paid his own tribute to Maurice, linking the readings and Gospel to the life he led during his homily. Son Shane on behalf of the family paid tribute and thanked all who supported them in the final weeks.

His former work colleagues formed a guard of honour as his coffin left the church and the funeral cortege was escorted by a motorcycle cavalcade to the cemetery. Burial took place afterwards as the rain fell down heavily at Kilcornan Cemetery. A large attendance from near and far was present despite the rainfall at both the reposing, Mass and burial to show the esteem that Maurice was held in. His passing came far too early in a life well lived as he had so much more to offer to family friends and the wider community. Sympathy to his wife Mary, sons Shane, Darragh, and Eoghan, sister Margaret, brother Peter, Uncle Sean, nephews, nieces extended family members and many close friends. May he rest in Peace.

MEMORIAL MASS: A Memorial Mass for the late John Barrett formerly of 8, The Cross Ardagh was held in St Molua’s Church Ardagh on Saturday September 16. John passed away on Wednesday August 9 after a short illness in New York aged 66. A Memorial service was held in Franke E Cambell Funeral Chapel 1076 Madison Avenue on Monday August 14, followed by a cremation service. Sympathy is extended to his brothers Pat, Mike, Eddie, Joe, Gerry and sister Kathleen, their families, and a large circle of friends in New York and the Ardagh region. May he rest in Peace.

SECRETARY WANTED: Coolcappa National School are advertising for a school secretary for 5 hours per week. The ideal candidate must be willing to work to a high standard and work well with others. Experience in school-based systems will be an advantage. Please post your CV and letter of Application to the Principal Coolcappa National School, Ardagh, Co. Limerick. on or before Wednesday September 27. Envelopes to be clearly marked ”Application for Secretary.”

LADIES FOOTBALL: Congratulations to Róisín Ambrose from the Old Mill club who was named on the TG4 Junior team of the 2023 Ladies Football Championship. The awards will be presented at their All-Star Banquet at the Bonnington Hotel Dublin on Saturday November 18. Congratulations to the Under 16 team who defeated Ahane by 2-14 to 3-8 in the County Final in Martinstown on Sunday September 10.

GAELIC GAMES: St Kieran’s defeated Claughaun by 1-10 to 0-9 in round 5 of Group 1 of the County Senior Football Championship played at Clarina on Saturday September 16. They led by 1-4 to 0-6 at half time. Team Anthony Molyneaux, Aaron Heffernan, Johnny Mc Carthy, Diarmuid Mulcahy, Sean Ryan, Brendan Mc Carthy (Captain), Mossie Shine, Darragh Treacy, Liam Kennedy, Mickey Long 0-1, Noel Callanan 0-4, Kevin Meade, Alan Daly 1-5, Eoin Mc Enery, Adam Lacey. Subs Cormac Mann, Anthony Mullins. St Kieran’s finish 4th in the table and retain their senior status for next year. The club were one of many who received sponsorship from the Cois Sionna Desmond Credit Union Club sponsorship evening held there. John Doyle from the St Kieran’s club was part of the Limerick master’s team who defeated Armagh by 2-14 to 1-13 after extra time in the All-Ireland Spirit Cup Final (Tier 5) at St Brigid’s Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon on Saturday September 16,

SOCCER NEWS: In the Desmond Division 3 League Cup Carrig Celtic lost 1-0 away to Glantine A and Kilcolman Rovers lost 3-1 away to Breska Rovers B. Creeves Celtic had no fixture.

LOTTERY DRAW: The Ardagh Development Association and Saint Kieran’s GAA joint weekly lottery draw took place on Monday September 11. The numbers drawn were 7,2o,22,28, and there was no winner of the € 14,500 Jackpot. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who received € 40 each: Francis Mc Carthy Askeaton, DTG c/o Greaney’s, Nancy Barrett and family c/o Moloney’s, Kate Ambrose Ardagh, May Gallagher Ardagh. Next Monday night’s jackpot will be € 14,600. People can play online using club force on the club’s Facebook page, with 6pm on Monday evening the deadline. The tickets are also on sale at the usual outlets, and all support will be appreciated.

RADIO DRAW: Congratulations to Mag’s Bridgeman, Knockaderry who won € 325 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday September 15.The tickets cost € 2, or3 for € 5 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, (including Moloneys Carrigkerry, and Denis Greaney’s Shop Ardagh) or from the radio station. All support will be appreciated. The station can be contacted at 069-66200 if people have news of interest to the West Limerick area.

MILFORD HOSPICE: Ardagh ICA guild are holding their annual collection for Milford Hospice in the Community Centre Ardagh on Thursday September 21 from 10amto 1pm. Your generous support would be deeply appreciated.

HERITAGE MEETING: St Kieran’s Heritage Association will hold a meeting in the Community Centre Ardagh on Thursday September 21 at 8pm. Over the summer months some members participated in a number of walks around the area and also in Tralee, Lyreachrompane and Galbally. The arrival of the Gardai to Ardagh 100 years ago will be marked by the association next month.

SCRAP METAL: St Kieran’s GAA club will be holding a scrap metal collection on Saturday September 23. from 9am to 6pm in the new pitch car park in Ardagh, for people who may want to dispose of unwanted scrap metal. If they wish to do so they can contact Ivan on 087-657 7551 or David on 086-220 5572

OSKAR FUNDRAISERS: A number of fundraising events will be held by the St Kieran’s GAA Club in the run up to the Oskar night in the Devon Inn on Saturday November 11. The Peaky Blinders members will be holding a pig race in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Saturday September 23. The Bridesmaids cast will be running a number of events beginning with a Bingo Loco event in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Friday September 29. They will hold a clothes collection in Ardagh and Coolcappa on November 4, and 5. The Calendar Girls will be holding a Table Quiz in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Friday October 6. The Snapper group will hold a tractor run in Ardagh on Sunday October 8 with registration at 12.30pm.

GREENWAY WALK: A walk will be held from Abbeyfeale to Listowel along the greenway on Sunday September 24 at 11am. It is in remembrance of Jim O’Connor from Kilmorna who was a great community person. All proceeds are in aid of the Cork, Kerry Bus operated by the Kerry Cancer Support Group. Donations can be made online or on the day.

SET CÉILÍ: A set Céilí will be held in Lyreachrompane Resource Centre on Sunday September 24, from 3pm to 6pm. Music by Taylors Cross, and spot prizes galore. Admission € 10. All proceeds in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation. Set dancing classes will commence in the hall Ballyhahill on Monday September 25, from 8pm to 9-30pm, with Fiona. All are welcome including beginners for a fun night of dance exercise and friendship.

CLUB DRAW: The next Limerick GAA Club draw will be held on Saturday September 30, and announced on the Sports Show on Limerick Live 95.The entry fee is € 10 per month or € 40 for the remaining four draws and € 21,000 will be given out in prize money each month. The first prize is € 10,000, 2nd prize € 3,000, 3rd prize € 2,000, 4th prize € 1,000, 5th prize is an exclusive star prize, and 4 prizes of € 500, four prizes € 250, and 17 prizes of € 100. To join contact the local St Kieran’s club members in person, or online through the Club force App with direct options available. The club will receive 50% of all membership received which is vital for the running of it over the year. The star prize for September will be an Apple iPad to the value of € 500.

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Ardagh/Carrigkerry Parish Notes from Tom Aherne

FLAG FLOOR: Over the past few months great entertainment has been enjoyed at the Flag Floor Rambling House Glensharrold Carrigkerry. People have attended from near and far and abroad to witness the mix of music, song, dance, storytelling, chat and hospitality. Only a couple of more night’s remain before it ends this month. The sessions continue each Tuesday from 9pm to 11.30pm, Teas and treats are served, admission is € 5, and all are welcome, to enjoy the best of traditional entertainment.

REVIEW/PREVIEW NIGHT: St Kieran’s GAA Club are holding a review of the 2023 season and a preview of the 2024 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship at the Longcourt Hotel Newcastle West on Saturday January 20, 2024. A panel of guests will be announced shortly, and tickets will go on sale in late November.

GAELIC GAMES: St Kieran’s defeated Feohanagh by 1-10 to 0-12 in round 3 of the County Intermediate hurling championship at Newcastle West Gaelic Grounds on Sunday September 3. They trailed by 0-8 to 0-6 at half time after Feohanagh had a lot of possession but their shot selection was off target. St Kieran’s gradually got on top and drew level only for Feohanagh to edge ahead again. A late goal in injury time gave the saint’s a second win in the group stage after three games. Team Cillian Ambrose, Diarmuid Mulcahy, Johnny Mc Carthy, Aaron Heffernan, Anthony Mullins, Brendan Mc Carthy, Cathal Mc Enery, Jack Ben Harnett 0-1, Mossie Shine, Cormac Mann, Michael Murphy, Ian Mackessy 0-6, Sean Ryan, James Muckell 0-2, Eoin Mc Enery 0-1. Subs Anthony Molyneaux 1-0, Fionn Gleeson, Donie Nolan.

St Kieran’s lost to Granagh/Ballingarry by 0-20 to 0-11 in round 4 of the County Intermediate Hurling Championship at Newcastle West Gaelic Grounds on Saturday September 9. They trailed by 0-11 to 0-6 at half time. They play Knockainey in the final match of the group. Team Cillian Ambrose 0-1 Diarmuid Mulcahy, Johnny Mc Carthy, Aaron Heffernan, Anthony Mullins, Brendan Mc Carthy, Cathal Mc Enery, Jack Ben Harnett, Sean Ryan, Cormac Mann, Michael Murphy, Ian Mackessy 0-7, Mossie Shine, James Muckell , Eoin Mc Enery 0-2. Subs Anthony Molyneaux, Fionn Gleeson, James O’Connor 0-1, Mikey Long.

Feohanagh defeated St Kieran’s by 3-10 to 0-8 in the West Junior B Hurling Championship Quarter final at Feenagh on Wednesday September 6. They trailed by 2-7 to 0-6 at half time. TEAM Liam Ward. Shay Greaney, Brian O’Neill, James Woulfe, William Steele, Darragh Mc Mahon, Edward Fitzgerald, Kevin Meade, Conor Woulfe, Lorcan Murphy, Billy Breen, Cathal O’Connor, Podge Balfe, Michael Steele, Shane Fitzgerald.

SOCCER NEWS: The Desmond junior men’s season has commenced again with action in the League Cup. Creeves Celtic lost 1-0 at home to Broadford United in the Premier Division on Monday September 4. Carrig Celtic and Kilcolman Rovers (welcome back) had no fixtures.

SPLIT THE POT: Congratulations to Amy Hanrahan who won € 523 in the August, Creeves Celtic FC Split the Pot monthly draw held at the Thatch Newbridge on Friday September 1. Tickets to enter the draw are available from committee members, club managers, at Neary’s Ardagh, Inver five crossroads Rathkeale and the Thatch Newbridge. All support will be greatly appreciated.

LOTTERY DRAW: The Ardagh Development Association and Saint Kieran’s GAA joint weekly lottery draw took place on Monday September 4. The numbers drawn were 8,9,14,22, and there was no winner of the € 14,400 Jackpot. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who received € 40 each: John Dillane Ballinabearna, Sharon Carrig Coolcappa, Martina and Catherine c/o Catherine Noonan, Patrick Mullins Glenville Ardagh, , Peter Buston Coolcappa. Next Monday night’s jackpot will be € 14,500. People can play online using club force on the club’s Facebook page, with 6pm on Monday evening the deadline. The tickets are also on sale at the usual outlets, and all support will be appreciated.

RADIO DRAW: Congratulations to Peg Kiely, Knockfinisk, Athea, who won € 300 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday September 8.The tickets cost € 2, or3 for € 5 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, (including Moloneys Carrigkerry, and Denis Greaney’s Shop Ardagh) or from the radio station. All support will be appreciated. The station can be contacted at 069-66200 if people have news of interest to the West Limerick area.

RAMBLING HOUSE: A rambling house will be held at Ballyhahill Hall on Wednesday September 13, at 8.30pm. All musicians, singers, storytellers and dancers are welcome to attend. Ita’s Rambling House will take place in the Desmond Complex, Gortboy Newcastle West on Friday September 15, at 7.30pm, (note earlier starting time). A night to celebrate Limerick’s All-Ireland hurling win with a focus on Limerick songs. The proceeds will go to a local charity. All support appreciated and a great night to look forward to.

QUIZ NIGHT: Creeves Celtic soccer club are holding a Quiz night on Friday September 15, at 9pm, at the Thatch Bar Newbridge. Hugh Keaveney will be the MC and prizes for the winning team will be awarded. € 10 per person, a raffle will be held, and all are welcome.

JOHN DOYLE: The All-Ireland Football Master’s Spirit Cup Final (Tier 5) between Limerick and Armagh is fixed for St Brigid’s Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon on Saturday September 16, at 2pm. Best wishes to John Doyle, from the St Kieran’s club and Limerick and hopefully they will bring home the silverware.

CLARES WISH: Doon Charity Clare’s Wish Foundation is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a Red Hurley Spiritual Concert taking place on Saturday September 16, at Mount St Alphonsus Church Limerick. Guests Eugene McCarthy, Ciaran O’Connell Uileann Pipes, Soprano Lorraine Galvin, Backing singers Karen Black and Eileen Pringle. Tickets are on sale now from Church shop clareswishfoundation

LADIES FOOTBALL : Old Mill play St Ailbe’s in the quarter final of the County Ladies Football Championship on Sunday September 17. Check for venue and time.

OSKAR FUNDRAISERS: A number of fundraising events will be held by the St Kieran’s GAA Club in the run up to the Oskar night in the Devon Inn on Saturday November 11. The Field cast members will be holding a sponsored walk along the Ardagh Greenway from 10-30am on Sunday September 17. The Peaky Blinders members will be holding a pig race in Neary’s Bar Ardagh on Saturday September 23.

LISTOWEL RACES: The annual Listowel Race Week takes place from Sunday September 17to Saturday September 23. There will be lots of entertainment around the town as well for people to enjoy.

PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS: The National Ploughing Championships takes place at Ratheniska, Co. Laois from Tuesday September 19, to Thursday September 21.

SET DANCE CLASSES: With the loss of evening light set dancing classes have resumed in Monagea Parish Hall for the autumn and winter season. They take place on Tuesday from 8.30pm and Thursday nights from 9pm for beginners and advanced and all are welcome. They are very enjoyable nights with lots of exercise, laughs and friendships formed in comfortable surroundings. For more information call 086-3510774. Classes by Timmy Woulfe are also being held in the Marian Hall Moyvane on Mondays at 8pm. Special attention for beginners during the month of September. Set dancing classes will resume in Milford Hall on Wednesdays September 20, from 8pm to 9-30pm. € 6 per class and no partner needed. For further information call 087 7672084. Classes will return in Con Colbert Hall Athea (Tuesday 3,)and Fr Casey’s Clubhouse Abbeyfeale (Wednesday 4,) in the first week of October.

CULTURE NIGHT: Culture Night 2023 will take place this year on Friday September 22. Culture Night is an annual public event in September that celebrates culture, creativity and the arts nationally. On Culture Night, arts and cultural organisations and venues open their doors later and free of charge, to allow for increased access to the public. Special and unique events will be specifically programmed at participating locations. Culture Night is always great fun and offers the perfect opportunity for us as a region to showcase the wealth of culture that Limerick has to offer. It is a night to celebrate the cultural, artistic and creative communities of our city and county by inviting existing and new audiences into our galleries, museums, workshops and studios. 742,000 people engaged with 1,700 Culture Night events in 2022. On Friday September 22, doors will open later, and special and unique events will be specifically programmed at participating locations and, thanks to the continued support of the Arts Council and Local Authorities across the island of Ireland, all activities will be available to the public free of charge. Limerick Culture Night is supported by the Arts Council in partnership with Limerick City and County Council. The details of the Limerick programme of events can be seen on social media outlets.

SCRAP METAL: St Kieran’s GAA club will be holding a scrap metal collection on Saturday September 23. In advance of that date the club have sourced a skip for people who may want to dispose of unwanted scrap metal. If they wish to do so they can contact any officer of the club to finalise the arrangements.

SET CÉILÍ: A set Céilí will be held in Lyreachrompane Resource Centre on Sunday September 24, from 3pm to 6pm. Music by Taylors Cross, and spot prizes galore. Admission € 10. All proceeds in aid of the Jack and Jill Foundation.

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Ardagh/Carrigkerry Parish Notes from Tom Aherne

MARY MANGAN: The death took place of Mary Mangan (nee Mc Mahon) Glensharrold, Carrigkerry peacefully after a short illness on Thursday August 31 at UHL. Wife of the late Denis (Denny) Mangan who died on January 1, 2002. She was a native of Ballyguiltenane in Glin and was a homemaker who always had a welcome for all who called to her house. She was a quiet natured person who worked hard and devoted her life to family. A large attendance was present at both the reposing, Mass and burial to show the esteem that Mary was held in. Reposing took place at Riedy’s Funeral Home, Newcastle West on Friday, September 1, from 5 pm with removal at 8 pm to St Mary Church, Carrigkerry .

The Requiem Mass was concelebrated by Fr Tom Mangan, Fr Michael Noonan, Fr Tony Mullins, Fr Mossie Costello and Fr Mike O’Connor at 12 noon on Saturday. Family members participated in the ceremony with readings, prayers of the faithful, offertory and family music. Symbols of importance to Mary’s life were taken to the Altar before mass commenced. They included her Rosary beads and holy water from Knock, where she made many trips to and Lourdes over the years. A sod of turf to show her dedication to work in the bog, meadow and on the family farm. The Weekly Observer and Ireland’s Own showing her love of reading and current affairs. A Geranium flower showing love for the collection of flowers and cuttings that family members brought to her during the years. A tin whistle to show her love for traditional music and dance and material and needles to show her handiwork at sewing. The first reading was from the Book of Ecclesiastes and the second reading was the second letter to St Timothy, very appropriate for Mary.

Fr Tom a family relative paid tribute to her friendly ways and great devotion to family all her life. She had great faith and was a regular attendee at Mass. Mary Ellen granddaughter on behalf of the family thanked all for their support over recent days. The appropriate music and hymns were from family members and friends. Mary was laid to rest afterwards as the sun shone in the family plot in Ardagh Cemetery. Sympathy to her family John, Margaret, Ellen, Kathleen, Denis, Mary, Veronica, Pat, Gerard and Nuala. Her brother John McMahon (Ballyguiltenane) daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends. Mary’s presence around Upper Glensharrold will be sadly missed by all and especially by her family. She enjoyed a long life well lived surrounded by a loving family and may she rest in Peace.

ENTERTAINERS PASS: The passing of two well known Limerick city musicians and singers took place last week. Willy Brown (August 26,) from Ballysheedy was a guitarist and vocalist and a founding member of Reform back in the 1970s. With songs such as You Gotta Get Up, One for the Boys and Keep Music Live, Reform made a name as one of the most popular Irish bands of the 1970s and early 1980s. Martin Burke (August 29,) from Lynwood Park and Quilty, Clare was a musician, singer/composer and boatman. At age 77, Martin Burke released his debut album, which included three of his compositions: ‘The Clogher Road’, written in honour of his wife’s parents and home place of Quilty, Co. Clare, ‘Plassey’s Pleasant Shore’; and ‘Lough Derg’, a jolly account of a sailing trip. Best known for the Clogher Road his son Ronan is one of the presenters of the West Wind on Clare FM. The song is sung locally by Noel Smith and Donie Nolan.

WEDDING WISHES: Congratulations and best wishes in the future to Gary O’Sullivan, Ballyine and Eilis Scanlon Kilcolman who were married in St Colman’s Church Kilcolman on Saturday September 2. They held their reception with family and friends in Ballygarry House Hotel Tralee.

DONATIONS NEEDED: A go fund me page has been set up by Cllr Tom Ruddle Newcastle West to assist Mairead Geoghegan Hurley with her health and financial issues. All donations will be greatly appreciated. People can donate at https://gofund.me/b3ef8f2b

GERRY KEOGH: The Exchange programme on West Limerick 102fm on Friday September 1 featured local artist Gerry Keogh. Presenter Shirley O’Regan was in conversation with Gerry from Killoughteen, Newcastle West, the winner of the Sean McCarthy Memorial Ballad Competition 2023 which was held in Finuge on Sunday August 6 as part of the weekend festival. Gerry emerged the winner with his song ”Safe Harbour” over 17 other participants. Gerry is very involved in the local entertainment scene and released a 14 track CD KEO a few years ago. It was a very enjoyable wide-ranging interview featuring two tracks from his CD and one of his poems. Well done to both for a lovely piece of radio.

GAELIC GAMES: John Doyle from the St Kieran’s club was part of the Limerick master’s team who defeated Kildare by 2-10 to 2-9 in the All-Ireland Spirit Cup semi-final at Courtwood Laois, on Saturday August 26. Limerick will play Armagh in the final.St Kieran’s lost to Knockaderry by 3-15 to 2-16 in Round 2 of the West Junior B Hurling Championship at Coolyroe on Sunday August 26. Congratulations to Darragh Mullane and Gavin Thompson on winning the John Doyle Plate with Limerick Under 15 Hurlers and Eoghan Sheehan on winning the All-Ireland Eugene Carey Under 16 Hurling tournament on Saturday August 26.

FUNDRAISERS: The new field development in Ardagh set a target of € 100,000 for phase one. This target has now been reached following the different fundraisers that have been held to date. The fundraising continues with the Field cast members holding a kids back to school Disco on Friday September 8, in Coolcappa Community Hall, plus a sponsored walk along the Ardagh Greenway on Sunday September 17. A family fun day will be held in Coolcappa GAA grounds on Sunday September 10, with all the groups holding an event.

COMMUNITY GAMES: St Kieran’s Community games were represented at the Regional and National Community Games finals in Ennis and Carlow in recent weeks. Congratulations and well done to Jack Downes, Patricia Woulfe, Jack Woulfe and Hugo Mac Iness who participated.

LOTTERY DRAW: The Ardagh Development Association and Saint Kieran’s GAA joint weekly lottery draw took place on Monday August 28. The numbers drawn were 14,18,27,29, and there was no winner of the € 14,300 Jackpot. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who received € 40 each: Saoirse Woulfe Ardagh, Kevin Meade Coolcappa, Luke, Niamh, Conor, c/o Julia Mackessy, Danny Collum Creeves, Caroline Daly Kilcolman. Next Monday night’s jackpot will be € 14,400. People can play online using club force on the club’s Facebook page, with 6pm on Monday evening the deadline. The tickets are also on sale at the usual outlets, and all support will be appreciated.

RADIO DRAW: Congratulations to Coireall Mac Curtáin Feohanagh, who won € 315 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday September 1.The tickets cost € 2, or 3 for € 5 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, (including Moloneys Carrigkerry, and Denis Greaney’s Shop Ardagh) or from the radio station. All support will be appreciated. The station can be contacted at 069-66200 if people have news of interest to the West Limerick area.

DANCING CLASSES: The Mc Cormack Kelly school of Irish Dancing will have an enrolment night on Friday September 8, in the community centre Ardagh at 7pm, for step dancing and Sean Nos dancing. All ages and abilities are welcome. For enquiries text Robert on 087 1343745.

DANCE CLASSES: Céilí and set dancing classes for school children will resume in Carrigkerry Community Centre on Friday September 8, at 6.45pm and all are welcome. Timmy Woulfe has resumed his adult set dancing classes in the Marian Hall Moyvane on Monday nights.

FILM CLUB: Newcastle West Film Club present ”Rise” in the Desmond Complex Newcastle West on Friday September 8, at 8pm. Admission € 8 and refreshments available. All are welcome.

RAMBLING HOUSE: A rambling house will be held at Jim’s Newbridge on Friday September 8, at 8.30pm. All musicians, singers, storytellers and dancers are welcome to attend. A rambling house will be held in Ballysteen Library (Eircode V94 322C) on Saturday September 9,at 8pm sharp. All musicians, singers, storytellers and dancers are welcome to attend.

QUIZ NIGHT: Creeves Celtic soccer club are holding a Quiz night on Friday September 15, at 9pm, at the Thatch Bar Newbridge. Hugh Keaveney will be the MC and prizes for the winning team will be awarded. € 10 per person, a raffle will be held, and all are welcome.

CLARES WISH: Doon Charity Clare’s Wish Foundation is celebrating its 10-year anniversary with a Red Hurley Spiritual Concert taking place on Saturday September 16, at Mount St Alphonsus Church Limerick. Guests Eugene McCarthy, Ciaran O’Connell Uileann Pipes, Soprano Lorraine Galvin, Backing singers Karen Black and Eileen Pringle. Tickets are on sale now from Church shop clareswishfoundation

LISTOWEL RACES: The annual Listowel Race Week takes place from Sunday September 17to Saturday September 23. There will be lots of entertainment around the town as well for people to enjoy.

PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS: The National Ploughing Championships takes place at Ratheniska, Co. Laois from Tuesday September 19, to Thursday September 21.

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