LocalNews

The gods also looked favourably on the occasion by providing a pleasant if slightly chilly evening.
Former Player Weds (August 27th 2004)
Former Waterville & Kerry star, John Cronin married the love of his life Nicola Coffey in Tralee on Friday August 27th. The newlyweds will reside in Tralee and John commutes to Dublin to work. Nicola is the daughter of Anne and Joe Coffey, Tralee and John is the favourite son of Kathleen and Gerard Cronin, Waterville. We wish them a long and happy life together.
Mayo Invasion (August 6th 2004)
A Bride & Her Dad On Friday August 6th 2004 a large contingent of Mayo residents made the long journey to Waterville to attend the wedding of Denise O'Sullivan and Anthony Moran. Denise is the daughter of Teddy O'Sullivan, who is domiciled in Mayo for many years but still keeps the Kerry flag flying there at every opportunity. Denise spent most summers as a young girl with her granny Mary Ted (RIP) at Beenbane and it was her wish to be married in Waterville. A great day was had by all and we wish the young couple many years of health and happiness. Click the picture to see Denise's Anthony and her mom Cathy.
Local Cyclists go from Mizen to Malin (July 2004)
On Saturday 31st July a small group will gather in Skibbereen in readiness for an attempt at an Ireland End-to-End Cycle commencing the next day at Mizen Head and finishing the following Saturday, 7th August, at Malin Head. (Here we see Ann Flaherty getting in some training.) The aim of the cycle is to raise funds for leukaemia, and specifically Ward 2D at Cork University Hospital, a ward with which Waterville is sadly familiar. The cyclists are all paying their own expenses so that every cent raised will go to Friends of Ward 2D, the voluntary caring group which supports everyone who has anything to do with the ward and which is a charity registered under No. 15959. The cyclists representing Waterville in this event are Pádraig Brennan, Joe Curran, Michael Fitzgerald, Andrew Flaherty and Ann Flaherty. The remaining riders are coming from the UK with Tom Flaherty (Jnr!). Much to his disappointment Tom cannot now take part as he was knocked off his bike a couple of weeks ago - but he’s coming anyway to egg the party on. You may have seen the bright yellow Friends of Ward 2D sponsorship cards in the local shops and bars – some cards have already been filled with a second one filling up rapidly! If you haven’t made your donation yet there is plenty of time – no sum too small or too large. If there is anyone who doesn’t have access to a card and would like to make a donation, this can be sent to Friends of Ward 2D, c/o Lobster Bar, Waterville. Cheques should be made out to Friends of Ward 2D. Sincere thanks to every establishment that took a card, and very grateful thanks too to Tara at IRD who donated her time and effort and did such a great job on the colourful posters accompanying the cards.
Young Luton Town Star Visits Waterville / Dromid (29th June 2004)
Kevin Foley, star of Luton Town, paid a visit to Waterville recently. Kevin is the son of Patrick Foley, Beenbane and Kathleen Curran, Octive. He played for the Ireland Under 21 Soccer Team in Galway a few weeks ago and acquitted himself very well. Indeed, he has been voted Best Young Player of the Year for the third year in a row by his club. This is a remarkable achievement by any standards and he seems to have an extremely bright future in the game. During his stay he conducted a training session with the local youngsters which went down very well. Paddy Fogarty, club chairman made a presentation on behalf of the Waterville G.A.A. Club in the Villa Maria.. Kevin is seen here with grandmother, Hannie and uncle James Curran. He's also a nephew of John Foley, Beenbane. Click the picture to see the presentation.
The Lodge Re-Opens (June 16th 2004)
After extensive renovation the Lodge Hotel has re-opened under new ownership and management. On the left, as you look at the picture, is the entrance to Brod's Bar which is modern and an example of splendid craftsmanship. There are 14 new bedrooms and in the very near future the disco and function room will be ready to cater for large & small parties such as weddings, Debs & Dinner Dances etc. Nothing has been spared in making The Lodge one of the finest establishments of its kind and we wish it every success for the future. Click the picture to see some of the new owners, James Hillis & Frank Curran along with some patrons.
Paddyfrogs Restaurant Opens (Thurs 24th June 04)
The village got another boost of confidence on Thurs 24th of June 2004 with the opening of a brand new, tastefully designed restaurant. Situated on the New Line Road, right across from Waterville Craft Market, patrons can avail of international cuisine of the highest standard, prepared by co-owner and chef Max Leguet who hails from Paris. Why Paddyfrogs? you may ask. Well the other half of the team is local girl Sandra Foster who is also the manager. The dining room can seat 40 comfortably & can cater for special occasions such as Birthdays, Staff Parties & First Communions. Paddyfrogs prides itself particularly on its choice of deserts & the set evening dinner menu is available at €38. We say Good Luck to Sandra & Max. (Click the picture above to see more.)
Successful Launch of Johnny Curran's Latest Literary Exploits (Friday May 7th 2004)
It was with a great sense of pride and admiration that the family, friends and far flung relations of local author Johnny Curran gathered at Charlie's Bar on Friday 7th of May 2004 to celebrate his latest exploits in the literary arena called "Tides of Change". This is John's second book and contains incisive glimpses into rural life in South Kerry from the forties, fifties and sixties. In time it will be regarded as a reference source for students who wish to study the social history of the time. It has everything for the reader, including humour, colourful description, factual information and a comfortable writing style. Many fine tributes were paid to John by his son Mike on behalf of the family and by former local gárda Tom Murphy who was a driving force behind efforts to provide necessary amenities for John in the immediate aftermath of his accident. Mick O' Dwyer, who officially launched the book spoke of his long friendship with John and his late father Jim (A member of the Friday Club). He used some aptly chosen words for the occasion and delivered them with sincerity and humour in a way that only Micko can. He reminded all present how irritated we might feel if we had to spend just one hour on the flat of our backs. John Curran has spent the last twenty six years doing just that! John himself thanked all who assisted him through the years including especially his wife Margaret. Can there be someone more deserving of the title "Kerry Person of the Year" in the very near future than this extraordinary woman ? (Margaret is also a most accomplished artist.) Weeshie Fogarty of "Terrace Talk" recorded interviews with various people which will be broadcast on Kerry radio next Sunday 16th of May 2004. Lest one should get the impression that the evening was one of sadness and gloominess, nothing could be further from the truth. After the formalities, music and revelry followed and a most entertaining night was had by all. If you haven't already bought the book do it now. Support our neighbour in the most practical way possible and you get a literary treasure into the bargain. The smiles on the faces of these gentlemen on the left convey the spirit of the evening's proceedings (Click each picture to get a larger view.)
Mary Jones (Nee Murphy) Hits 80 (May 1st 2004) Local personality and highly respected bridge player Mary Jones celebrated her eightieth birthday on the first of May 2004. For those who want to look radiant at 80 consult Mary as she seems to be sipping from the "Fountain of Youth". We wish her many more years of continued good health.
Johnny Curran Pens Second Book (April 18th 2004) John Curran or Johnny Curran as he is known locally, has written his second book called "Tides of Change" which has taken over six years to complete. It's a terrific read and will evoke many memories of times gone by, amongst its readers. The book is now available in all the local shops and will be officially launched by another local hero Mick O' Dwyer in Charlie's Bar on Friday 7th May. Weeshie Fogarty of "Terrace Talk" will record the occasion and the programme will be broadcast two days later in a special show on Sunday 9th of May 2004.. John broke his neck and severed his spinal cord in an accident in April 1978, which has left him paralysed from the neck down ever since. John uses a special chin-controlled wheelchair to get around and also uses a chin-controlled switch to type with his computer. His first book Just My Luck was published in 1993. This was the harrowing story of his accident and rehabilitation. John was named Kerry Person of the Year in 1993 in recognition of the success with his first book but also to reward his achievement in highlighting and coping with his disabilities. Visit John's website at http://www.curranpublishing.ie
Charlie's Back (April 04) Villagers were horrified to discover on Monday 27th Oct 2003 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. 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 has been photographed by thousands of tourists. We are delighted to see Charlie is now back again, looking as fine as ever. He has been positioned a little further from the road, which is a good idea from the point of safety for those who photograph him. Well done to sculptor Alan Hall for doing such a splendid job and the FÁS workers who prepared the location. Click the picture to sees some of those involved in the project.
Jack & Jill Foundation Presentation (Sat 10/04/04)) On Saturday 10th April, Aislinn and Robbie O' Mahony made a presentation of €10,250 to Margaret Naughton who works as a liaison nurse with the Jack & Jill Foundation. The Jack & Jill 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. The organisation was of tremendous help to Robbie & Aisling after the birth of their infant son Oisín. An entertaining event took place in the Bay View Hotel in Dec '03, to raise funds for the Foundation. Various activities took place, including head shaving, slave selling, body waxing etc. Between the night's activities and private donations, the sum of €10,250 was collected. Aislinn & Robbie would like to thank all who contributed in any way. Click the picture above to see Aislinn present the cheque to Margaret. Also in the picture are Robbie and brothers Darragh & Aoghán.
Paddy & Rose Lauch CD in Villa (2/04/04)
Having successfully launched their CD/Tape called, The Man From Waterville, recently in London, Paddy & Rose launched locally in The Villa on Friday April 2nd. Rose celebrated also celebrated her birthday. Pat Everett, chairman of the South Kerry Board, officially launched the CD/Tape and Mick O' Dwyer was there too to support his long time friends. Contact Paddy & Rose if you would like to buy a copy of either the CD or tape.
The launch was a wonderful success and was supported by many friends and neighbours. The ladies were out in force & thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Click the pictures above to see more.
Opening of Joey's Fast Food (Friday the12th of March) Friday the12th of March say the opening of a new Pizzeria & fast food outlet in Cahersiveen. The proprietor is Patrick Fogarty, a young, ambitious entrepreneur from Waterville. Patrick's parents run the very successful Centra outlet in the village. The new Pizzeria is located in what was once Mary Margaret's shop and is fitted out with the most modern catering equipment. Local builder Patrick Galvin carried out the necessary alterations in record time and all present agreed that the workmanship is second to none. Maurice Fitzgerald performed the official opening at around seven p.m. to the delight of the throngs of well wishers who came to support Patrick. There was free food in abundance and it sure was tasty. The wine flowed freely and there were soft drinks for those who preferred such. Don't forget to give Joeys a call the next time you pass through the town. "You'll be glad you called." Waterville GAA wishes Patrick the very best of luck with his new venture. Click here to see some photos of the opening.
Reunited At Last (March 2004) Most of us take our mothers for granted but what if you had to wait sixty years to talk to her for the first time? Well that is precisely what well-known, local "Fruit & Veg Man" and former Waterville star player, Sean O' Shea had to do. Seano, as he is better known, was born sixty years ago to a young single woman from North Kerry. The social stigma which attached to such events at that time forced the young mother to hand over her infant son without even having the opportunity of holding him even once. She never met her lost son again until recently but I'm sure few days went by without her wondering, "Where is he?........What does he look like?......Is he married?......Have I some more grand-children? etc. Later she moved to the UK where she met and married her husband. They had ten children and at the age of fifty two she found herself to be a widow when her husband died. In the meanwhile Seano grew up to be a man in Bunavalla, Caherdaniel and eventually met and married Sheila Connell from Shanaknock, near Waterville. Seano's daughter Louise, decided to do some detective work & finally it all paid off. She eventually located the whereabouts of her grandmother. Seano and his wife Sheila decided to write a letter inviting her to make contact if she wished. If it were to cause his mother any embarrassment or difficulty of any kind, Seano and his family would understand. That can't have been an easy letter to compose. Imagine the emotion when on a Thursday evening Seano answers the phone and at he other end is his mother. The conversation lasted just a few minutes but a meeting was arranged. Just before Christmas Seano and his mom finally met & got to hug each other for the first time. Seano says the only moment that comes close to that was the holding of his own first-born for the first time. His mom is in excellent health and more meetings are arranged. Seano's siblings were aware of his existence, as was his mom's husband. Seano played at mid-field for our club for many years and was a vital player in what is fondly remembered as the great team of the late sixties. We say well done to all concerned.
Chairman Launches CD (Feb 27th 2004) Chairman, Paddy Fogarty & his lovely wife Rose went off to the Galtymore in Cricklewood to attend the Kingdom Gaels annual dinner dance on Friday 27th of February. As part of the evening they launched their most recent CD/Tape/Album and doing the honours for this event was local builder/entrepreneur Danny Tim O' Sullivan. The album is called The Man From Waterville. We wish Paddy & Rose every success. Click the picture to see the album sleeve.
First Salmon of Season (Feb 12th 2004) Local ghillie, Dominic McGillicuddy had a broad smile on his face on Thurs, 12th of Feb after assisting Kilkenny angler supreme, Tommy Duggan, who first came to Waterville in 1968, land the first salmon of the new fishing season on Loch Currane. Tommy was fly fishing, using a size 8 "Silver Stoat" This was a prize worth waiting for as he weighed in at a whopping 16½ lbs. Tommy was presented with the Jimmy O' Sullivan Perpetual Trophy which was first presented in 1993 ( By Mikie & Nuala of the Lobster Bar) to Englishman, Bob Lunk This however, is the biggest first fish of the season since then. Can it be bettered this season?? We'll see. The scene of the capture was near what is known "The Ledge" at about 2.10p.m. and was safely on board by 2.30p.m. This area of the lake is a well known spot for spring salmon. Expert opinion in the Lobster Bar suggested that the fish was in the lake since late December/ early January. Local angler, Vincie O' Sullivan says that a lot of "spent fish" which are also known as Kelts have been caught in the lake recently and this augurs well for the rest of the fishing season. The presentation was made by Jeremiah O' Sullivan, brother of the late Jimmy.
Getting Together (Feb 5th 2004) Every second Thursday the senior citizens get together in the Dromod Centre for mass and a chat. This is followed by a top class hot lunch and more chat. We wish them continued good health. But do you know your neighbours? Who are these people below? We'll tell you later! Click the pictures if you want to see some more.

Éigse na Brídeoige 2004 The annual Biddy Festival (Éigse na Brídeoige) took place in Uibh Ráthach on St. Brigids weekend. Over the years this has become a huge cultural event and the theme of this years festival was "The songs of Uibh Ráthach". On Saturday night, in the Bay View, Tim Dennehy, Marion O' Neill & Seán Garvey, all from Cahersiveen, enthralled their audience with some fine sean-nós singing. They were preceded by young, talented local musicians who set the high standard for the remainder of the night. This was followed by a Biddy Ball and more singing and playing in the front and back bar. (Which went on late!) Sunday saw the launching of his first CD of 22 songs by retired local múinteoir, Micheál Ua Duinnín. Friends and relations from Micheál's home area of Baile Mhúirne, travelled to be with him for the occasion. This turned out to be something very special and those of us who were lucky enough to be there will treasure the memory. Micheál, in his younger days played for our club and has contributed hugely to all local activities for the last sixty years since he arrived as a young teacher, at the age of 22, to Lohar school. The CD is a remarkable collection of songs and we say "Well done " to all who contributed to it's creation. (Click the above picture to see Micheál with his seven children.)
Senior Citizens Party (Sunday 18th Jan 2004) Our senior citizens had their annual party in Charlie's Bar on Sunday 18th of January. A total of 109 guests sat down to a delicious meal which was prepared by chef Michael Lucey and a great day was had by all. Musical entertainment was provided by Paddy & Rose and local young artists performed as well. Click this link to see some photos and get a flavour of the occasion.
New Arrivals (Jan 8th 04) Congratulations to John D. O' Shea & Caitriona on the birth of a baby boy (a brother for Shauna). Also to Dan Fitz & Fiona on the birth of their baby girl ( a sister for Pádraig). A January birthday is a good advantage when it comes to under age football in the coming years, so well done on the planning too!
Birthday Boy (Jan 2nd 2004) Well known local, Michael O' Sullivan of Farranahown, reached another milestone in his life on Jan 2nd when he reached the noble age of sixty. Michael was joined in his birthday celebrations in the Villa Maria by his family and a large circle of friends. Michael's special guest was his mom "Dolly" who looked radiant as usual. We wish Michael many more years of good fortune and health. (Click the picture to see more)