LocalNews

Engagement (Christmas 2003) The good news filtered southwards that former Waterville, Kerry & Kildare star, Karl O' Dwyer has finally popped the question to the love of his life, Sandra O' Brien. Karl is now domiciled in Kildare and teaches in Confey College, Leixlip. He plays his club football with Round Towers. Sandra is a primary teacher and comes from Castledermot. She has one brother and one sister. She's an avid follower of GAA and was a highly talented ladies Gaelic player herself. The big event is due to take place in Feb 2005. We wish them both the very best for the future
Christmas 2003 Engagement Best wishes to Louise Huggard, eldest daughter of Peter & Mary who has become engaged to Killarney man Aidan O' Connell. Click the picture to see Louise & Aidan.
Club Convention (Saturday 27th of Dec 03) The Annual Convention of the GAA club took place in the Community Centre on Saturday 27th of December, at five o' clock. A minute's silence was observed at the beginning of the meeting as a mark of respect to the late Paul Concannon. The chairman, Paddy Fogarty, in his address thanked all who helped to run the club in the previous year and a most comprehensive report on the year's events was read by secretary Laurence Curran, while treasurer Sheila Fitzgerald was meticulous in her financial report. John B. O' Shea is the incoming senior team captain with Brian Moran continuing as team trainer. The trainer will choose his own selectors.
Jack & Jill Foundation (Friday 26th Dec 03) A highly entertaining event took place in the Bay View Hotel on Friday night (26th Dec 03), to raise funds for the Jack & Jill Foundation. Various activities took place, including head shaving, slave selling, body waxing etc. The foundation was set-up to help babies born with severe developmental delay. This usually means that they can not function at birth and require 24 hour care. This organisation was of tremendous help to Robbie & Aisling O' Mahony after the birth of their infant son Oisín. More information may be had by clicking the following link http://www.jackandjill.ie Below are some of the volunteers who went through the pain barrier to raise funds for the Jack & Jill Foundation. Click the pictures to see the action.

Micko Get "Hall of Fame Award (11th Dec 03) At the AIB Munster Council Awards for 2003 at the South Court Hotel, Limerick on Thursday 11th Dec 03, Mick O'Dwyer received the Hall Of Fame Award for his services to Gaelic Football. The citations read by Munster Council Secretary, Donie Nealon listed all the accolades and achievements of Mick O'Dwyer's sporting life who played intercounty football with Kerry from 1954 as a minor right up to the early nineteen seventies as a senior player. His exploits as an intercounty manager are now legendary, leading Kerry to eight Senior All-Ireland titles and leading Kildare and Laois to win their first Leinster Senior titles for many years.
Sunday 7th Dec 2003 Today, Sunday 7th Dec 2003 marked the untimely passing of Paul Concannon, after bravely battling illness for the past six and a half months in Cork University Hospital. Paul will be sadly missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him. He was a man of integrity and good humour and a valued member of the local community. He played in goal for the senior team and later on as an officer, did Trojan work to run the club. Words cannot express the deep-felt sorrow and sense of loss of the whole community. To Paul's family we extend our deepest sympathy.
Waterville Man Down Under (Nov 11th 2003) Local man Jamie Moriarty from the village has taken off for Sydney, Australia. Jamie is a keen horseman and is a capable young jockey who has spent some time in Kildare learning the business. The travel bug has now caught him and he's gone to work in the stables of Ron Quinton in the beautiful city of Sydney. He'll be there for three months and all in Waterville wish him well.
Abbie Aherne (Nov 6th 2003) So who is Abbie Aherne? She was born in the parish of Caherdaniel on the 3rd of July 1897 and celebrated her 106th birthday this year. She was one of a large family. In 1918, at the age of 21 she left the shores of Ireland for the Land of the Free across the Atlantic, never to return again. Her sister Bridie accompanied her and she died at the age of 54. Abbie met a second generation American with Cork connections, married and became Mrs. Pat Aherne. She lived in 210 East 88th street, Manhattan, most of her life. She now resides in a nursing home in Astoria, Queens, New York. She is seen here with her son Jimmy Aherne. What's the Waterville connection? Well Abbie is the sister of the late Johnny Galvin (Father of John & Batty etc) & Mary O' Dwyer (Mother of Micko). We wish her continued years of good health.
John Galvin Hits A Half Century (Nov 1st 2003) A big bash was organised by Margaret the beloved spouse of John Galvin in Charlies on Saturday night. John, of course was unaware of the arrangements and was taken aback at the cheering and number of so many familiar faces as he strolled in for what he expected would be a quiet pint and discussion on the games of the day. He was a little suspicious though when he spotted his work mate Bartley Curran as he entered. Hand shakes and hugs (from the ladies) were exchanged and it wasn't long before the night got into full swing with music provided by " Keep It Country". The chief guest himself, sang his usual few songs as did Micheál Sheehan, Patrick Brennan (Glen), Mick O' Dwyer and others. Paddy Fogarty played the box when the band was finished. The cake was produced along with a selection of finger food and everybody had a great night. We wish John well and may the next fifty be as good as the last. Click this link to see a few pictures from the evening.
New Look Villa Maria (31st Oct 2003) The Villa Maria Hotel has taken on a new look with locals Ger & Deirdre Curran, Beenbane, taking on the running of such a well known Waterville hostelry. This is a massive boost to the village with a young local family willing to "Give it a lash". Deirdre has plenty experience in the hospitality industry, having spent a number of years virtually running the Strand Hotel while Gerald will attract genuine GAA patrons to discuss the finer ~~pints~~ points of the game. Fine beverage and the best of food will be provided as in the past. Waterville GAA wishes them the very best of good fortune for the future. (Click photos to enlarge)
Charlie Chaplin Statue Vandalised (Monday 27th Oct 2003) Villagers were horrified to discover on Monday morning that the bronze statue of Charlie Chaplin was wrenched from its foundation and severely damaged. This was the work of vandals who must have used something other that manpower to cause such destruction. Local knowledge suggests that the activity took place between the hours of seven and eight in the morning! Someone must have seen what happened! Cost of repair is said to be in the region of €6,000. The cost of the original sculpture was €25,000, most of which was contributed by Chaplin's daughter Josephine, who also owns a house in the village. The statue itself has, without doubt, become the focal point of the village and in its four years has been photographed by thousands of tourists. We look forward to its speedy return and re-erection (Maybe a little further from the main road). To the culprits we say "You should be ashamed of yourselves".
Hatter With Local Connections Kevin Foley, whose parents hail from this parish is making a big impression in the Luton Town Football Club at present. ( Luton play in the second division.) Kevin is the son of Patrick Foley, Beenbane and Kathleen Curran, Octive. The extremely versatile 19 year old began the season at right back and has since been moved to the right side of midfield. He has scored three goals so far this season and is a big hit with fans. David Platt, the England under 21 manager was so impressed that he considered drafting him into his squad but young Foley says he is only interested in wearing the green of Ireland. In fact Don Givens added him to the under 21 squad for the recent clash with Switzerland but unfortunately he had to cry off due to injury. Kevin was chosen by former manager Joe Kinnear as Young Player of The Season two years running which is no mean achievement. He has had the distinction of being captain of the youth team and he is described by colleagues as " A mobile, thinking player with a good engine". He is said to ooze class and rarely make a mistake. He has been with the Hatters since the age of ten when he signed as a schoolboy and captained his school to victory in the under 14 Heinz Cup Final at Highbury. This was a nationwide competition for schools and Kevin was also named "Player of the Tournament". Can it be long before we're cheering our local boy when he lines out for his country? We wish him well and look forward with eager anticipation to his international debut.
New Kerry Trainer: (22nd Oct 2003) Best of luck to the new Kerry trainer, Jack O' Connor from Toorsaleen. Jack has a distinguished track record already, having achieved All Ireland success at under 21 level ('96 & '98) as team manager and as a selector with the senior All Ireland winners in 1997 and 2000. He has achieved great success with Coláiste na Sceilge as well. As a player Jack played the most of his football with Dromid Pearses but at an earlier stage of his career played with Waterville. This is a time of great joy and honour for Jack and his family but also one of immense sorrow as his mother Sheila was laid to rest during the week. Go ndéana Dia trócaire uirthi. The Waterville club wishes Jack every success for the future.
Beenbane Belle Bags her Ballinagh Beau (Friday Oct 3rd 2003)
Maura & Dualta Murphy on their wedding day in the Dromhall Hotel		On Friday Oct 3rd local girl Maura O' Shea tied the knot with her fiance, Dualta Murphy of Ballinagh Co. Cavan. Maura is the daughter of James and Lily O' Shea from Beenbane and Dualta is the son of Rosemary and Seamus Murphy. The religious ceremony took place at St. Finian's church Waterville and the reception was in the Dromhall Hotel, Killarney. The young couple will reside in Newbridge, Co. Kildare. The Waterville Club wishes long life and happiness to both of them. Graduates of the John Foley School of Dancing provided some entertainment
Lily and James O' Shea, the proud parents of the beautiful bride.
Local & national hero, Micko Dwyer was a guest at the wedding
Former New York Mayor Plays Waterville (15/09/03) Rudy Giuliani visited Waterville on Monday 15 of Sept to play golf on the local course. By all accounts he thoroughly enjoyed himself and was lavish in his praise of the locality. He dined later in the Smugglers restaurant. Mr. Giuliani was mayor of New York when terrorists flew two passenger jets into the Twin Towers which resulted in the deaths of many innocent people. It was widely acknowledged that Mr. Giuliani handled the aftermath extremely well in the circumstances. Some would say it was his finest hour as mayor.
Kerry & Roscommon Tie Knot (September 5th 2003) A large contingent from the locality made the long journey to Roscommon/Galway for the wedding of Nicholas Fitzgerald (son of Lily & Pat) & Roscommon born, Helen Finneran (Daughter of Kathleen & Johnny). The wedding ceremony took place in Helens native village of Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon & the reception was at Hayden's Hotel, Ballinasloe. Best men were, John Fitzgerald, Batt O' Sullivan & Maurice Fitzgerald. The bridesmaids were Helen's sisters, Patricia, Anne & Linda. The couple will reside in the Big Apple. We wish them both long life & happiness
Debs Night Out (September 3rd 2003) Students who sat their Leaving Certificate in June celebrated their debs in the Cahersiveen Park Hotel. This has become an annual event and no expense is spared. (Click pictures below for larger view)
Paudie Dennehy was Aisling O' Dwyers escort for the evening		David O' Dwyer & Fenton Daly patiently await their partners.
14 Junior Infants Start in St. Finians (Sept. 1st 2003) September 1st saw the start of a new school year for the students of the parish. St. Finian's had one of the largest intakes for many years with fourteen new entrants. The happy scholars are seen here with their teacher Yvonne O' Shea The school has become a four teacher school again. (Picture courtesy of Sheila Dwyer)
Donegal Supporters With Kerry Roots (August 2003) These are Joseph & Colm McCormack, sons of Noreen Dwyer (Beenbane) & her Donegal born husband Joe McCormack, who are living in New York (Our President's Grandsons !!!! ). "Come on the Green & Gold!" (Since Kerry are gone, there will be no controversy as to which Jersey to wear)
Rowing Club Competes in All Ireland Coastal Rowing Championships (August 23rd/24th 2003) at Cromane The Senior Men and the Minor Ladies rowing crews competed in the All Ireland Regatta at Cromane last weekend. Both crews came in 5th position in their respective events. This was a massive achievement when one considers they were in competition against, in excess of forty other rowing clubs from all over the country. The event attracted a crowd of approximately of 15,000 spectators on Sunday alone. Waterville GAA says "Well done" to all concerned.
The men's crew consists of David Clifford, Henry Hunt, Tony McGillicuddy, P.J. Fitzgerald. Cox: Noel Clifford.		Minor ladies crew is made up of Kelly Hillis, Laura Quinlan, Siobhán O' Sullivan & Máire Fenton
Wily Wing back Weds (Friday 8th August 2003) The glorious sunshine was in keeping with the joyous occasion of the wedding of Aoghán Courtney and his beautiful bride Siobhán Minnock, who were married in St. Finian's church, on Friday 8th of August. Aoghán is the highly respected left wing back on the Waterville senior team. He is noted for his attacking runs up the left flank and his resolute defending. Aoghán is the son of Marie & Micheál, proprietors of the renowned Sheilin restaurant, while Siobhán, daughter of Aidan & Pam, comes from Newcastle, Co. Wicklow. (Click the picture for better view) Waterville GAA wishes every good luck, happiness & long life to the newlyweds
Drama at Tech Amergin (August 4th, 5th & 8th 2003) Madhouse’, a professional theatre group from Budapest staged plays in Waterville at the beginning of August. The Producer was Mike Kelly from London and Ballinskelligs. The plays had already been very well received in various venues all over Europe. Follow this link to find out more
Success at Valentia for the Rowing Club (Monday Aug 4th 03)
With football activity in the club scene quiet because of All Ireland action, the rowing club have been keeping the flag flying in earnest. Senior Men take gold at Valentia		The under 16 men, under 16 ladies and minor ladies all took third place in their respective races. It was especially sweet for the under 16 ladies as it was their first medals of the season. (Click pictures for better view)
Smokie in Cahersiveen (Sunday 3rd August 2003) Smokie, one of the most travelled bands in the world made their appearance in Cahersiveen on Sunday night as part of the annual Music Festival. They're on the road now for 30 years approximately and the large crowd enjoyed some old favourites like, "Something's been making me blue", "I'll meet you at midnight", "Don't play your rock 'n roll to me" & of course "Living next door to Alice".
Monday (21st July 2003) The RTÉ television programme Cabin Fever was broadcast from the new marina in Cahersiveen on Monday evening (21st July) after the 9 o' clock news. A crowd in the region of 3000 lined the shore and cheered on their favourite contestants. This programme has become a big hit with audiences throughout the country and Monday's programme gave huge exposure to Cahersiveen and South Kerry in general. Contestants live on the boat and complete normal chores associated with crewing. They are interviewed by host Derek Mooney and the public vote via phone or text message to eliminate one contestant each week. The unlucky choice has to then "walk the plank" into the sea. The contestant who survives till the end will receive €100,000. Cobh is the next port of call.
Cahersiveen Regatta (29 June 2003) Some well known locals who travelled to Cahersiveen to support their teams. The picture on the right shows the men pulling out all the stops on their way to second spot in the men's 4-oar race. (Click the pictures to enlarge them)
Happy Birthday (26th June 2003) Happy 88th birthday (26th June) to our vice-president Maureen O' Sullivan, South View Terrace. Best wishes from everybody in Waterville GAA Club. (picture taken on Tues 17th June 2003)
Helicopter Invasion (Thursday 19th of June) A group of German helicopter enthusiasts decided to make Waterville their home on Thursday 19th of June. It was quite a sight to see them (8 in total) hovering in the sky and even more so when they landed on what was once the croquet lawn of the Butler Arms Hotel, where they were guests The picture above shows two well known locals who happened to be walking on the promenade at the time the picture was taken.
Lotto Winner (Wed 18th June) Well done to Kay Doyle, Spunkane, who scooped the first prize of €350 in the Lotto draw
Special Olympics (16/06/03) Waterville was host town to the Surinamese team for the Special Olympics. They arrived on Monday 16th June & were hosted by local families. Follow this link to sample the atmosphere while they were here.
Post Office Gets New-Look (06/06/03) The old post office in the village has recently been replaced by a new, modern building. Gone are the old drapery sections and the post office counter area. While it is sad to see little bits of history vanishing from the village, the new building is a well considered and a welcome replacement. Older members of the community will remember less affluent times when money was scarce and goods could be bought in Reillys on "tick". Later in the year when some employment became available in the local hotels, bills were paid and the "slates" were cleared. This would have been a common activity in most village businesses at that time. The new post office is still in the O' Reilly family and we wish them continued success. The new post office now provides other services to the community along with the usual services one expects. One can access the Internet, AIB Bank, tourist information, purchase gifts, crafts & confectionery. On the two upper floors are some well appointed apartments which are available for long or short term renting.
Lotto Winner (Wed 7th June) Well done to Robert Falvey, Cliff Road, who scooped the first prize of €650 in the Lotto draw
Tech Amergin Celebrates (May 31st '03) The old tech in the village which now goes under the name of Tech Amergin, celebrated a successful year on Saturday evening (31st May '03). The old prefabs are gone and the original building is now used as a centre of further education. Throughout the year classes such as photography, woodwork, computing, aerobics and art took place. An exhibition of students work was opened by the Minister for Tourism, John O' Donoghue. All who attended were impressed by the extent of the refurbishment that has taken place and the standard of work on exhibition. Click this link to see more.
First Communion (May 03) Congratulations to the pupils of St. Finian's(17th) & Cillín Liath(11th) National Schools who received first communion recently.
Welcome Home 18/05/03 David Daly has returned from the UK and by all accounts look fit and trim. He's looking forward to playing real football again and is determined to fight for his place in the starting fifteen .
Brendan Gill Reaches 60 13/05/03 On Tuesday 13th of May, Brendan Gill, the well known chef, farmer, hotel manager, band consultant and highly regarded local personality reached the 60 year milestone of his life. A surprise party was arranged in the Strand Hotel by Mary Carmel and his work colleagues, old and new. A great night's entertainment was had by all and food and beverage was in abundance. Follow the link to see & read more
Congratulations 9/05/03 Best of luck for the future to Niamh McGillicuddy and her husband Tony Condon who were married in Fossa on Friday last (May 09 2003). Niamh is the daughter of Anthony and Cora and sister to Tara and Tony. The young couple will reside in Kinsale.
Eileen Sugrue Moves Out (April 22nd '03) Well known Waterville GAA supporter Eileen Sugrue of Spunkane moved from her home today to a little cottage nearby for the time being. The house is to be demolished to make way for a new holiday home development and Eileen gives this her blessing since she will have one of the new homes for herself and Gerard, even though she does feel a little sad to to think of her old home being demolished. Eileen has spent all her life in the same house which was built sixty five years ago by Mike O' Sullivan(Duileach). (Who were his helpers ? Does anybody know?) We all wish herself and Gerard the best of luck in the future. The picture shows Eileen with her neighbour and friend John Galvin. (Click for a better view)
Easter (April 20th '03) Waterville basked in beautiful sunshine for the Easter weekend. The village was thronged with tourists and holiday home owners. GAA followers were treated to a festival of games over the weekend with the minors winning on Good Friday, the seniors winning against Dromid on Saturday, the U14s winning against Portmagee on Monday and South Kerry League semi-finals also on Monday. (Skellig Rangers beat St. Mary's and Ballinskelligs beat Dromid) Rumour has it that Hugh Grant was spotted at the Golf Club!
Good Luck (Week of April 10th '03) Good luck to Denis Dwyer & Michelle who moved into their beautiful new house in Beenbane. All Waterville GAA members wish them and their young family many happy years in Beenbane. Denis will only have to hop over the fence for training from now on.
Cumann Na mBunscol (Thurs April 10th) Well done to the boys & girls of St. Finian's National School who did themselves proud at Páirc an Phiarsaigh on Thursday (10th April). The boys went on to win an exciting Mini-7s final against their rivals from Cillín Liath by a margin of two points. The girls lost out to Ballinskelligs in their final but can be very satisfied with their achievement and on another day may have won.
Lotto Winner (Wed 9th April) John Huggard(Junior) of Spunkane was the lucky winner of the Lotto drawn on Wednesday 9th of April. He scooped the first prize of €950.
Archaeological Trips (Sunday March 30) Archaeological Trips, organised by Fiona de Buis, commenced today, with visits to sites at Spunkane, the lake shore and a Fulacht Fia at Beenbane. Between 40 and 50 people participated. The weather couldn't have been better and the trips will continue over the next few weeks. Contact Tech Amergin for further info on future outings.
Set Dancing Party in Charlies Bar (March 29th 03) John and Breda Foley had their annual end of season party in Charlies. The place was full of young and not so young. An excellent display of dancing talent was on view. Full sets were danced by these young people and music was provided by Ger Donoghue, Valentia.
Trainer Returns (March 27th 03) Brian Moran, senior team trainer for last year has returned from his trip down under to the Land of Oz along with girlfriend Annette Newman. They arrived into Cork Airport on Tuesday morning last after their long trip. The grapevine tells us that Brian is rearing to get stuck in again. The club is delighted to have you back again Brian and Annette as well of course.
Impending Arrival (March 27th 03) Paul Galvin (son of Batty and Mary, Spunkane) and Jennifer Speight are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their first born in New York. We wish all concerned the very best of luck and hope everything goes well.
Life begins for Bridie at ??? (March 27th 03) Bridie Moran, our well known supporter, wife of John the plumber celebrates the famous half century mark on Thursday 3rd of April. Happy birthday Bridie!! ........A surprise party??
Wedding (March 16th 03) Congratulations to Deborah Connolly & Ian Rudge who were married on Sat 15th March in St Finian's Church. The newly weds will reside in Bermingham. Deborah is the daughter of Terence & Debbie Connolly, Beenbane. Paddy Fogarty, our chairman is her uncle.
Killarney Bash (March 16th 03) John O Dwyer, son of Mary C. & Micko was caught unawares on Saturday night(15th) last in the Cahernane Hotel. His beautiful wife, Geraldine organised a surprise birthday party(40). A great night was had by all & master of ceremonies was Seán O hArgáin who did a This is Your Life.