Garden Fete
After almost twenty years Millstreet is happily again to experience a Drishane Garden Fete on Sunday, 30th May 2010. It will, as always, be an afternoon event and Thomas Duggan indicates that it will be an event with something to offer everyone on the day. All proceeds from this wonderful day will go towards the Baby Jacob Fund. Considering the great success of “A Night at the Castle” in 2009 the forthcoming Garden Fete should prove hugely popular and is likely to be much welcomed by Drishane’s many Past Pupils from far and wide. Thomas suggests if anyone had any unwanted presents since Christmas still in new condition they would be greatly appreciated to be used as prizes. These can be dropped to Green Glens, Drishane Castle, or Duggan’s Shop at any time. It is proposed that there will be a photographic and audio-visual presentation in the magnificent setting of Drishane Chapel. For updates on the Baby Jacob Project including a number of appearances on TV3 visit www.millstreet.ie . The website will also feature ongoing developments on preparations for the forthcoming Garden Fete.

Museum News
It was indeed with sadness we noted the passing to his Eternal Reward of the late Pádraig Tyers in Cork. Pádraig was such a wonderful Gentleman of the very highest calibre. He was the true inspirer of “Picture Millstreet” which he so splendidly launched on 7th December 1997 at Green Glens, Millstreet in front of a capacity audience. I recall what a joy it was meeting with Pádraig and his wife Betty initially after the 1993 Eurovision when Noel C. Duggan introduced both people to me. On that occasion we visited Millstreet Museum at the Carnegie Hall. Both visitors were delighted to meet with our own Monsignor Manning here at Millstreet Presbytery because of the Corca Dhuibhne connection. They were so very welcoming and great sources of inspiration. The book sold out and also the reprint within a few short years….It has now become a collector’s item. I also recall Pádraig’s excellent lectures at UCC on audio-visual themes….when I was doing my H.D.E.. His sincere love of the Dingle Peninsula, his Waterford roots, his marvellous sporting achievements and his magnificent writings are treasured memories for Family and Friends. Ar deis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
We are indeed grateful to the relatives of the late Peg Dennehy who was local correspondent supreme for the Kilcorney/Rathcoole/Banteer area for many dedicated years. Peg had very carefully kept copies of every “Clara News” over the years. This wonderful historic resource has recently been presented to Millstreet Museum.
We shall in time share information on any updates (when such come to hand) of the re-establishment of our local Museum/Tourist Information Centre at Carnegie Hall.

Our Faithful Departed
Over the past few weeks many good people have sadly gone to their Eternal Reward. The lives of many have been enriched by having known such people. May they all rest in peace. We especially remember Conchubhar Ó hÉalaithe, Drishane Road, Millstreet. Conchubhar was such an absolute gentleman of the very highest calibre. In the 1970s and 1980s I had the great privilege of being a Junior Teaching Colleague on the wonderfully dedicated teaching team associated with the Coláiste Samhraidh at St. Michael’s Rosminian College in Omeath, Co. Louth beside the beautiful Carlingford Bay and later in St. McNissi’s College near Larne, Co. Antrim. It was Conchubhar’s Training College friend, the late Mícheál Ó Duinnín of Carlingford and Conchubhar himself who enthusiastically established this truly excellent and remarkable Summer School where hundreds of students from the 32 counties not only learned to fondly appreciate the Irish language but were so magnificently inspired in developing such a real love of a far broader dimension of Irish culture..by two of Ireland’s greatest teachers…Mícheál and Conchubhar (assisted by a supportive team). Among the many who attended the recent Funeral Mass for Conchubhar – Mícheál’s wife, May and son Pádraig who travelled from Dundalk, Co. Louth. We all have treasured memories of this utterly sincere, forever witty and superbly understanding and approachable Friend, Conchubhar Ó hÉalaithe. “Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.” In time we hope to compile audiovisual memories of Conchubhar which have been recorded over the years. These precious recordings will feature on LTV2 and on our website in time to come. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.
Another good person who had such a positive effect on Millstreet life was the late Mary O’Connor, “Duneden”, Boherbue. We remember the late Mary who along with the late Tadhg O’Driscoll established the very popular Millstreet Gramophone Circle some years ago. Mary who recently went to her Eternal Reward, was such a true Lady of the highest calibre who shared many musical gems with numerous Gramophone Circles from her fascinating collection of treasured recordings. For almost thirty years Mary had dedicatedly devoted her great musical talents and sincere energy to the Boherbue Church Choir. A special Millstreet Gramophone Circle presentation in tribute to Mary took place on Friday, 16th April 2010. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.
We also remember Tom Enright, Newcastlewest; Sheila & Mary Bridget Ring, formerly of Coolinarne, Millstreet; Margaret O’Leary, Carriganima; Sr. Senan O’Connell, Presentation Convent, Rathmore; Margaret O’Connor, Shanaknock, Millstreet; Sr. Aloysius Lynch, Mooncoin & Kippagh; Catherine (Cáit) Cronin, Kilmeedy; Tom Quilter, Tralee (brother of Sr. Noreen Quilter); Rory O’Connor, Lismire. May they all rest in peace.
Brieflets
A truly magnificent Wall Hanging on a Millstreet Theme was recently officially launched at Millstreet Library. The very colourful work of art – the result of a wonderfully energetic workshop over a number of weeks under the expert direction of Artist Amanda Wright and many enthusiastic participants, will be viewed by future generations. Librarian Breda O’Leary is delighted with the very positive reaction to this newest addition at our local Library which has seen such uplifting developments in recent years.

LTV2 Millstreet season comes to an end shortly. We’ve had lots of encouraging comments over the past season. We feel quite privileged to have formed such a genuine friendship with the now famous “Crystal Swing” whom we featured on LTV2 some two years ago when William Fitzgerald filmed Mary, Dervla & Derek at Charleville Park Hotel. With Mary’s husband, Michael, all accorded us a royal welcome to their home in Lisgoold near Midleton just before global recognition emerged. We wish this wonderful family every success and good luck in the years ahead. To appear on such a popular primetime television Show as “Ellen” in such a short few months is real fame at a hugely international level!

Ever increasing numbers of browsers continue to visit www.millstreet.ie . Considering the daily updates (sometimes two and three times daily!) and the vast variety of subjects covered with so many pictures and video clips it’s not at all surprising that it has attracted such wide attention. Our sincere thanks to Hannelie O’Connor and to Michael Cashman for such total dedication sharing their valuable time and wonderful talents – entirely on a voluntary basis – in making our website such a part of our everyday life in Millstreet.
Special thanks also to Bernard Crowley of LTV2 Millstreet for uploading the special video clip highlights of various LTV2 programmes. These clips have been enormously enjoyed by our web visitors overseas who cannot receive the regular weekly programmes when broadcasted to the Duhallow, Muskerry and Sliabh Luachra areas.

Seán Murphy and I recorded for LTV2 a feature at Clondrohid Community Hall on Saturday, 10th April which was the final night of the truly spectacular “Glitz at the Ritz” presentation by the Show Stoppers. We were indeed privileged to witness a production of which Oscar Night in Hollywood would be justly proud. All those involved must take a huge bow on such a superbly professional Show. Check out our website www.millstreet.ie for a selection of pictures from this amazing production. This has been the fifth year of the Show Stoppers presentations.

What a marvellous success at Green Glens on Easter Sunday – this splendid Vintage Family Fun Day is likely to become an annual event – such was the enthusiastic reaction of the many visitors, participants and organisers.

We wish Niamh Kavanagh every success in this year’s Eurovision – Niamh has not forgotten Millstreet and recently sent us a message on Facebook on how special Millstreet has been to her and in particular the memory of the beautiful presentation she received some months later when Millstreet invited her back in 1993 to celebrate her historic Eurovision win in Millstreet.

Thought for Reflection: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation!”

by Seán Radley. In Passing also appears in the Clara News

Rare Winter
People recalled the snows of 1982, 1963 and 1947 as we witnessed one of the coldest Winters in decades. Considering the fact that for days major heating and water supply difficulties were experienced by many of us I doubt if anyone will be booking a holiday to either the North or South Pole anytime soon! One uplifting benefit, however, was the capturing of truly rare and superbly picturesque snow pictures over the prolonged period. These have been shared on www.millstreet.ie , on Facebook and on “The Corkman” – especially the images of the very creative igloo at Old Coach Avenue, Millstreet and of the “Gigantic Ice Fish” image (identified by Margaret Kelleher, Mount Leader when she saw the many Blackwater digital images) created by the snow at the Boeing by the River Blackwater which contained long stretches of ice not seen for decades. My sincere thanks to Humphrey Hickey for bravely transporting me to the Boeing for those rare images and to Seán Murphy who courageously drove me to Liscahane to capture the unique igloo images. And the availability of a School Texting facility to advise Parents regarding school closures and openings (due, for example, at Presentation N.S., Millstreet, to a broken furnace, burst pipes, ceilings collapsing, classrooms flooded etc.) was a tremendous advantage where we are now able to simultaneously send out multiple texts to hundreds. While we really experienced a Winter Wonderland for a few days we are also so very glad that a milder winter has now been replacing such extreme conditions. Roll on the uplifting Spring (and even the daffodil shoots are already emerging) and a warm Summer.

Our Faithful Departed
Over the past few weeks many good people have sadly gone to their Eternal Reward. The lives of many have been enriched by having known such people. May they all rest in peace. We especially remember the following: Canon Dan Cronin, Gneeveguilla; Ted Lyons, Station Road, Millstreet; Margaret O’Connor (nee Healy), Kilmeedy; Michael J. Cronin (Snr.), Shrone; Pat O’Connell, Tullig; John Cahill,Coolikerane; Andrew Walsh, Cullen; Mary Cashman, Gortrue, Lombardstown (mother of Elizabeth Linehan, Dooneen); Kevin Mannix, Gortmore, Banteer; Margaret O’Hare, Cloghoula House, Millstreet; Timothy Falvey, Cullen & Gneeveguilla; Ellen (Nell) Hickey, Mill View, Millstreet.

“Millstreet Miscellany No. 3”
Regarding this new superb Aubane Historical Society’s publication, Jack Lane comments: “This is another collection of items on Millstreet town and its environs. Its purpose, as with previous publications from Aubane, is to
locate and make available as many information sources as possible on the area so that its fuller history can be recorded, made available and appreciated.
This collection includes reports by a number of visitors to the town, a collection of poems, items on a number of historical figures and local families, a number of illustrations and a collection of new sources on the area’s history.
It is dedicated to Seán Radley in recognition of his services to Millstreet.
It is on sale at Wordsworths, The Square, Millstreet and costs 15 Euro.”
It is indeed an honour to have such an excellent book so very kindly dedicated to oneself by the esteemed historian, Jack Lane. Having already received a copy in advance of the official launch at Aubane Community Centre in mid-February 2010 I have already discovered gems of very interesting information such as the location of the only five small cabins which existed in Millstreet before 1736 (as indicated in the Notes of the late Maurice Murray-O’Callaghan) – these were located in the Square from Claudio’s Restaurant right down to O’Leary Family Butcher Store. Jack’s latest book is undoubtedly going to be a best seller and one is strongly advised to acquire a copy before it becomes a true collector’s item.

Brieflets
Congrats. to Billy & Ellen Sheahan of the Wallis Arms Hotel which has recently undergone a magnificent renovation. The official opening at a recent Re-launch Party (28th Nov. 2009) was performed by the renowned and nationally popular Alan Shortt (O’Mahony).

LTV2 Millstreet now has its own Facebook site as well as a new dedicated U-Tube website where one may view short sequences from various programmes…thanks to Bernard Crowley. To discover these links visit www.millstreet.ie. Upcoming programmes include special features on Millstreet Country Park and Rural TV incorporating an interview in Cork with Hugh O’Brien.

We, in Millstreet Museum Society, still await official confirmation of agreement and permission to enter the designated room at Carnegie Hall, Millstreet as a centre for our Local Museum and Tourist Information Point. Cllr. Noel Buckley has recently indicated that the process is ongoing and will hopefully be concluded soon.

Many people have noted the magnificent new Holy Water container – a special churn surrounded by an exquisite covering so very creatively wood carved by Dan Duggan, West End who also has the honour of being the very first name in the Golden Book of Donors because Dan was the first person to be baptised at St. Patrick’s Church, Millstreet in the 1930s. We believe also that it was on Dan’s wise suggestion to incorporate the pulpit as part of the main altar setting that now we have one of the most aesthetic lecterns so very skilfully constructed from the original pulpit. Rich praise is deserved by all who have been involved in the overall restoration of our Parish Church. It is a true joy to behold.

Within a few short weeks Eily Buckley’s Regional News on C103 will reach the magical one thousandth report – yes indeed No. 1,000 ! – what a truly unique achievement and what a voluntary service has been delivered in the most cheerful and splendid manner by a superb communicator since the early days of County Sound. Sincere congratulations, Eily, on reaching such a significant milestone on your consistently interesting and hugely popular weekly reports received by thousands of local radio listeners. In recent times of course one can view, anywhere in the world, each of Eily’s Regional Reports on www.millstreet.ie .

Thought for reflection: “Success is how high one bounces when one hits bottom!”

“In Passing” is a regular column in the Clara News

New Look Website

Hannelie O’Connor and a dedicated team have established a truly hugely popular Millstreet website over the years. And now a further enhancement with a new look site being launched with the very much appreciated assistance of Michael Cashman and with the advice also of John O’Riordan, Cork & Church Street, Millstreet. The site www.millstreet.ie is updated daily not only with important local news but with exciting video and audio links. Clearly a huge success judging by the global comments received online to the site.

Museum News

A million thanks for the magnificent response to our annual church gate collection which amounted to €2,471.93. A full report on the progress of re-establishing our local Museum and Tourist Information Centre will appear in the next issue of “Clara News”. A very special word of thanks to Cllr. Noel Buckley and to Noel C. Duggan and Family for being so helpful during this transition time. Among the very interesting items recently received are three very fine framed GAA pictures featuring the late Con & Denis O’Connor – we thank Marie O’Leary (nee O’Connor) of Main Street for these treasured items. Over the Summer (with its less than summery weather!) we met with quite a number of visitors tracing roots. One of the most memorable must have been Ali Davies from Clonakilty and originally from England. When Ali and her cousin Stef (from Cumbria) spent a day in Millstreet recently they were so thrilled to discover the grave of their ancestor, Maurice O’Sullivan who once lived at the Rectory where Kitty Cronin now resides. Amazingly, the grave is directly underneath the beautiful St. Therese of Liseaux window of St. Patrick’s Church and is also close to the graves of two ladies who worked in the Rectory. Kitty not only gave us a complete tour of the now listed house but provided such a very fine meal in her utterly welcoming home. Ali and Stef were so appreciative of not only the royal welcome but also for the very productive, interesting and fun day they had experienced. And Kitty was also a great Millstreet Ambassador to the Denehy Family from USA – Mr. & Mrs. Joe Denehy who have been frequent visitors to Millstreet and who, on this occasion, travelled with their daughter Janis, her husband Robert and their children Casey and Ryan from the State of Maine, USA.

Our Faithful Departed

Over the past few weeks many good people have sadly gone to their Eternal Reward. The lives of many have been enriched by having known such people. May they all rest in peace. We remember especially the following: Betty (nee Manley, Millstreet) McCarthy, Cork; Jimmy Jones, Boherbue & England (a regular visitor to Millstreet Gramophone Circle); Lawrence (Larry) Ellis, Millstreet & Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow; John (Jack) Murphy, Church Street, Millstreet; Catherine Condon, Cork & Coalpits, Cullen; Sr. Ailbe, Drishane House, Millstreet; Gerald Healy, Curraraigue; Michael Walsh, Drishane Road, Millstreet and Derragh, Cullen; Colette Dunne (nee Duggan), USA and Millstreet; Marie Campion, Cork (sister of Teresa Kelleher, Liscahane); Liam (Bill) O’Regan, Cork – husband of Anne (nee O’Doherty, Millstreet) – among the Concelebrants at Bill’s Funeral Mass was Fr. Dan Cashman, S.M.A., Millstreet and Cork.

Brieflets

• The two room extension at Presentation N.S. is looking most impressive and a true credit to All involved in its planning and construction. It will be of huge benefit to future generations of school going children.

• LTV2 Millstreet returns in the Autumn with lots of interesting news stories which have been recorded over the past few months. The forthcoming schedule will include coverage of the recent Tour of Ireland cycle race, interviews with Showband greats like Big Tom McBride and Tony Stevens, a hugely successful Concert at the Glen Theatre on the occasion of the launch of Annmarie’s most recent highly popular CD, travelling to Béal na mBláth with Millstreet Pipe Band and a brief word with Mary Robinson who was the 2009 invited Guest and who delivered such an inspiring talk despite three very heavy thunder showers, the Centenary celebrations at Drishane and Green Glens and the visit of the McCarthy Clan from USA and Co. Limerick to Drishane, Tubrid and Green Glens …. to mention but some of the varied features of the upcoming LTV2 season.

• Sincere thanks to All who generously contributed and assisted in the recent Irish Cancer Society’s annual church gate collection which amounted to €2,397.60.

• A major event at Millstreet Country Park on Sunday, 30th August 2009 when the Belgian Ambassador officially opened a hugely impressive new water feature further enhancing the beauty of this wonderful setting.

• Sincere congratulations to Steven O’Riordan and his Production Team on the success of their film documentary entitled “The Forgotten Maggies”.

• Millstreet Pipe Band appeared on RTÉ 1 television on two occasions in August – The Band appearing at the Rose of Tralee Festival in the 1960s in a documentary on “50 Years of the Roses” and then on the News when present for Mary Robinson’s 2009 visit to Béal na mBláth.

• On the website www.InAndAround.ie/duhallow once may view a virtual Google tour of Millstreet town. This is the result of the famous Google Camera-car visiting Millstreet a few short months ago.

• Thought for reflection: “Never look down on anyone – unless you are helping them up!”

Both Drishane and Kilcorney Feis Centenaries were celebrated in a very impressive and memorable manner during May 2009. Over the next few weeks visual records of the historic events will appear on www.millstreet.ie . The “Buίochas” DVD produced for the Drishane Centenary is truly excellent with some rare historic film footage, brilliant editing and production. The pageant which preceded the celebration of Mass at Green Glens on Saturday, 16th May was most memorable and gave a very creative insight into the history of the Sisters of the Infant Jesus. The symbolic features within the setting were so tastefully illustrated such as the symbols of the farm, the brush factory, the missions etc.

Dan Joe Kelleher of LTV was commissioned to record the two day Kilcorney Feis Centenary. This was important to have done this especially when one considers that the Feis was opened by a person of the very same name as had opened the Feis one hundred years before – Liam Ó Buachalla of Kilcorney. The special Mass on the Sunday night was also beautifully arranged remembering especially the history of the Feis. LTV2 covered both Centenary celebrations and will share the highlights later in the Autumn.
Our Faithful Departed

Over the past few weeks many good people have sadly gone to their Eternal Reward. The lives of many have been enriched by having known such people. We remember especially the following: Alice Fraser, Midleton (mother of Barry); Eileen Magee, Co. Down (mother of John Magee, Chaplain, Millstreet Community School); Dan O’Connell, Knocknagree (whose promotion of Sliabh Luachra traditional music is renowned); Jason Heelan, Cullen & Lombardstown; Donie Murphy, West End; Eileen O’Keeffe, Dooneen.

May they all rest in peace.
Museum News

Carnegie Hall, Millstreet has been splendidly renovated and soon it will be reoccupied by Millstreet County Council, Teagasc, the Pipe Band and Millstreet Museum & Tourist Information Office. It will require quite a few weeks of preparation, resources and planning before the Museum reopens. We still have an accommodation issue for the permanent storage of our archives as only a fraction will be on display at any one time. The temporary storage facilities provided by the Duggan Family and our kind friends in Ballydesmond is very much appreciated but we now feel the various historic items should have a permanent home. Constructive suggestions are very welcome.

We may be contacted by email at <Sean Radley> .

We thank Maurice Walsh, Ickenham, England for a number of interesting documents as well as a recent copy of “The Universe” which outlined the Drishane Centenary. Thanks also to Gillian & Raymond Gilbourne, Killarney Road, Millstreet for an historic 1929 fire extinguisher.
Dan Joe Honoured

LTV’s Dan Joe Kelleher of Carriganima was recently honoured at the Carrig Mill Bar in Carriganima mark his 25 amazing years of local television broadcasting. LTV’s team made special presentations while Chris Barrett made a presentation on behalf of the many viewers. Music on this most pleasant of evenings was provided by the Barrett Family & Friends from Clondrohid.

LTV2 continues to record many events for transmission during the next season.
Gramophone Circle

Held at the Canon O’Donovan Centre, Clara Road, Millstreet the monthly Gramophone Circle presentations have been taking place usually on the third Friday of every month at 8.15 p.m. . Once a year I have the honour of sharing my twenty or so musical favourites. This Friday, 19th June I attempt to present my selection for this year. All are very welcome. Admission is free and there is a chance to participate in a draw for a popular CD at the intermission.
Brieflets

* It was wonderful to witness the tenth anniversary of “Living Scenes” held recently in Galway when a busload of some forty people from Millstreet travelled to the hotel in Salthill to participate in the historic event originated by Mary Surlis and promoted here in Millstreet by John Magee and his dedicated team.

* St. Joseph’s Gardens complex beside St. Patrick’s Church is looking so well as the landscaping is now further enhancing the picturesque setting.

* TV3 are to be complimented for its excellent coverage of the recent Cork v. Kerry Football match in Killarney. Special mention was given to Millstreet Pipe Band and there was a pre-match profile on Donncha O’Connor who with Noel O’Leary recently officially opened Coleman’s New Shopping Complex in Minor Row. Donncha also as well as Aidan Walsh has been providing valuable coaching for Primary School children within the Millstreet region and beyond.

* To learn more about the current fund-raising activity for the new

* Building Project at Presentation N.S. there is a special webpage on www.millstreet.ie .

* Congrats. to the Duggan Family for the superb condition of the Drishane Estate witnessed by the hundreds of visitors who attended the recent Centenary … the linking pathway from the Cemetery to the Castle Grounds, the avenue roads, the Church, the tricolour flying on the castle, the majestic fountain in the French Garden … all looked so magnificent on that sunny Friday evening, 15th May 2009 – the exact 16th anniversary of Millstreet’s 1993 Eurovision!

* Wishing you all a wonderfully happy Summer during which we shall, D.V., have lots of great weather.

* Thought for reflection: “Hope is Faith holding out its hand in the dark!”

BOOK LAUNCH

Fr. James McSweeney contributes a splendid Thought for Reflection on page four of the daily Cork “Evening Echo”. Many of Fr. James’s magnificent pictures also feature on that popular newspaper….as well as on his globally popular website www.todayismygifttoyou.ie . On Thursday, 22nd November 2007 a wonderful book of these reflections and pictures entitled “A Year in Reflection” was launched in Ballyvolane in Cork. An ideal Christmas present! Fr. James’s annual Calendar was also recently launched. Do look out for both the Book and the Calendar on sale locally in many local outlets.

CHRISTMAS RECITAL

There have been many fund raising events in aid of the St. Patrick’s Church, Millstreet Restoration Fund. The most recent occasion to mark efforts for this praiseworthy and important cause is the presentation of a Christmas Recital by Kerry Choral Union in the Church on Sunday, 2nd December 2007 at 7.00 p.m.. Tickets are widely available.

OUR FAITHFUL DEPARTED

Over the past number of weeks many good people have gone to their Eternal Reward. They have so very much enriched the lives of many.

We are indeed grateful to Tim O’Shea of Tullig for having submitted the following tribute to the late William Quigley. Tim writes: “The death has taken place recently in Stockport near Manchester, England of William Quigley, aged 92 years. He had been the first teacher of the Pipers of Millstreet Pipe Band in January 1951. It has been his encouragement that has kept the Band going without a break all these years. Some people may still remember his wonderful sign writing on the local shops. He still had relatives in the locality. R.I.P..” In an email from William’s son, Liam, we learned that William was interred with his late wife Elizabeth Quigley (nee Bohan) who was also a native of Millstreet. He was a man of many talents and will be greatly
missed. Coincidentally the priest presiding over the service, Father
Moss, had a sister who was a nun at Millstreet Convent. We also note the passing of: Eddie Murphy of Wilton, Cork (husband of Kathleen Kelleher formerly of Minor Row, Millstreet); Tom Falvey, Killarney Road, Millstreet; Gobnait Christina O’Callaghan, Carriganima; Ted Corkery, Rathmore and formerly of Millstreet; George Tarrant, Derrinagree; Kathleen Dineen, Murphy’s Terrace, Millstreet. May they all rest in peace.

MUSEUM NEWS

Over the past few weeks we’ve had quite a number of school tours to Millstreet Museum including children from Bishopstown, Cork with their teacher, Marian O’Shea as well as pupils from First Class, Presentation N.S., Millstreet with their teacher, Ms. M. O’Sullivan.

We thank Marie Casey, Cloghoula for a copy of “Pobal” published by Millstreet Community School in the late 1970s in conjunction with Seachtain na Gaeilge. Among the wonderful items received from Maurice Walsh in Ickenham, England some time ago is a collection of historic lamps with very attractive glass globes. We also thank Dermot Kiely, Cullen for two very interesting Mission leaflets distributed at a Millstreet Mission in the 1930s as well as a large historic match box.

When visitors come to our Museum Centre in recent months they have been pleasantly surprised to note that it is also the setting for our LTV2 Studio.

Our phone number is 029 – 70844 while the email address is <Sean Radley> .

BRIEFLETS

* We would indeed encourage you to bring your used stamps (especially with all the Christmas post) to “An Siopa Deas” (the former Post Office), Main Street, Millstreet where Bina Burke will arrange to collect the various bags of stamps for distribution to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Centre at Model Farm Road in Cork.
* During the recent beginning of the Respond Housing project beside the Church in West End the appointed Archaeologist on site, Ray Walsh, alerted us to the historic importance of the site. Pre-dating the building of the Presentation Convent in 1840, an historic French Drain and pottery ware discovered.
* The recent “Self Build” Exhibition plus the Annual Pony Show held at Green Glens were wonderfully successful.
* Every Blessing and Joy at Christmas and throughout a very Bright 2008!
* Thought for Reflection: “The notes I handle no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes – ah, that is where the art resides!” (Artur Schnabel, Austrian Concert Pianist, 1958)

CORK 2005

January 8, 2005 saw the official opening of Cork as the European Capital of Culture for 2005.    What a colourful firework display was witnessed on that Saturday.   On the Sunday an occasion which had a direct link with Millstreet took place in Cork City Hall at a spectacular Tea Dance. The famous Pádraig Pearse Harp which had been presented to Drishane Convent many years ago by Senator Margaret Pearse (sister of Pádraig) had, in turn, been given to the Cork School of Music where it would continued to be played rather than be a Museum display item.   In recent years it has been superbly restored. It was officially played for the first time since restoration at Cork City Hall with the Cork Pops Orchestra on Sunday, 9^th January as a very significant cultural event of Cork 2005 – European Capital of Culture.

The historic event featured recently on LTV2.

WEB

Over 21,000 hits on http://www.millstreet.ie/ in the first eleven days of January is certainly uplifting news for Hannelie O’Connor and all those involved with the newly revised Millstreet website.   This proves the popularity of the website with an increasing number of new visitors who become regular browsers of the site.   Feedback to our email address <Sean Radley> is wonderfully encouraging with lots of suggestions like the inclusion of a street map of Millstreet and continuation of photographic galleries of life in our parish.    We’ve even had web visitors from Austria, Hungary and lots from emigrants in the five continents.   This month’s website Personality of the Month is John Kelleher, Aubane.   We encourage you to inspire your relatives abroad to log into our website at least weekly for updates of their native Millstreet and to visit our “Links” on the site which includes Fr. James McSweeney’s excellent spiritual site http://www.todayismygifttoyou.ie/ which changes daily.   The valuable assistance of Michael Cashman, Tullig in the ongoing development of our local website is deeply appreciated.   We especially appeal to those abroad who regularly visit http://www.millstreet.ie/ to let us know by sending us a brief email to <Sean Radley>

LTV2 MILLSTREET

We’ve now reached Programme 10 with our signal continuing to improve.   Response has been enthusiastic.  One of the easiest ways of receiving the Local Channel is to tune into Channel 4 (UK) on the Seán O’Connell,  Knocknagree multichannel service (should one already have this system in place) on Thursdays from 10.00 to 11.00p.m. with a repeat on Sundays from 8.00 to 9.00p.m..   The Local Channel just logs into the UK Channel 4 for those two hours weekly.   Alternatively (but a more complicated approach) one may also get both LTV and LTV2 (Millstreet & Macroom) by arranging to automatically tune into the VHF (just above RTE 2) signal from Mushera or UHF (Channel 50) from Tullig but this is, however, dependent on correct direction of the aerial system in one’s home.

The present LTV2 service is being provided free of charge through the voluntary group of enthusiasts who believe in the tremendous potential of a Local Channel which is community based and non-commercial.    While lots of necessary equipment has been voluntarily bought by members of the core group the cost of transmission aerials and broadcast equipment used on the mountains and in the studio is quite substantial and will need public financial support if the weekly broadcasts are to continue. In the near future ways by which the funding of such projects will be suggested.

MUSEUM  NEWS

The famous “Irish Examiner” photograph taken by photographer Denis Minihan continues to reappear consistently in the newspaper in its promotion of its professional prints service of past pictures of the national paper.   It was taken  in Millstreet’s Carnegie Hall in the 1980s and features Rosemary Healy, daughter of Denis and Nora who lived in Church Street at the time.    The child is seen reading a book in front of the beautiful stained-glass door at the entrance of the
Carnegie Hall.
We thank Maurice Walsh of Ickenham for much appreciated copies of the “Irish Post” which included an excellent photograph of Tony and Delia Barrett receiving a presentation in recognition of their splendid work for the London Cork Association.
To James O’Shea of Cork we also extend thanks for extra very interesting information relating to his remarkable research into the history of the O’Shea Family who originally came from Carrigacooleen, Millstreet.   A splendid Clan Gathering took place at the Duhallow Park Hotel last Summer.   Members of the Family were very much involved in the construction of some of Cork’s most famous buildings including the renowned Opera House.

One of the most significant presentations to Millstreet Museum took place recently when Seán & Catherine Buckley together with Nora Creedon arranged to donate the many historic Cups and a Shield associated with the very famous Kilcorney Feis.   The important occasion was recorded by John Tarrant and has received much newspaper coverage.   It will also be shown on LTV2 Millstreet.    Míle buíochas to the Kilcorney Feis Committee for such a generous gesture.   The valuable items will be on display for generations to come.

Millstreet Museum / Tourist Information Centre is open on Tuesdays from 10am to 3.30pm and on Wednesdays/Fridays from 10am to 5.00pm.    Our e-mail address is <Sean Radley> while our telephone number is 029-20844.

Our  Faithful  Departed

The very special tribute delivered in such a heartfelt manner at the funeral of the late Seán O’Riordan, Church Street, Millstreet by Jerry Doody appears under the GAA webpage on http://www.millstreet.ie/ .   We also very especially remember the most memorable 40^th Anniversary to the Priesthood of the late Fr. Michael Cashman of Tullig who recently went to his Eternal Reward in New Zealand where he has so dedicatedly ministered for many years.   The late Timothy Duggan, West End was such a wonderful Barber who shared a wealth of fascinating stories and humorous tales in such a welcoming manner.

We also extend our sincere sympathy to the relatives of Mary Goggin, Priest Cross;  Jim Fitzpatrick, Carrigaline, Rathmore;  Christopher (Sonny) Byrne, Dublin & Rathcoole;  Liam Miller’s two daughters who died in a road accident in France….Liam had directed Eurovision ’93 in Millstreet;  Michael O’Connor, Coolikerane; Denis (Denny) Murphy, Shanaknuck;  Denis Sheahan, Glenbeigh Village, Co. Kerry (father of Billy, Wallis Arms, Millstreet);  Adrian Ryan, London & West End, Millstreet (brother of Marie,  “Moyne Hill”, Station Road);  Anne Lehane (mother of Michael of LTV Macroom);  Helena Hegarty, Churchtown,  Dublin (mother of Edel Fraser, Claraghatlea, Millstreet);  Sr. Pius Singleton (Drishane Sister)  of Cullen and the English Mission;  Hannah McSweeney, Meenskehy East.

May they all rest in peace.

BRIEFLETS

We extend heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to John Kelleher, Aubane on his recent retirement following many years of wonderfully dedicated service to the Millstreet Branch of Cork Co. Council.   As Martin Corcoran, B.E. who made one of the many presentations to John at a hugely attended special retirement function at the Duhallow Park Hotel, stated John’s utter commitment to such major projects as the construction of the new Keale Bridge, was of enormous importance.   John recently presented very generous financial support for the work of LTV2 Millstreet.

We congratulate Eilish O’Rahilly, Killarney Road, Millstreet on her recent engagement to Brendan Breen, Beaufort, Co. Kerry.

When the ever-popular dog “Rooter”, at the age of fifteen, died recently it marked a very real change at the Square, Millstreet.  Owned by the Manley Family, the black dog became a favourite pet not only to Anthony, Ursula and Family but became such a popular animal friend throughout the town.  He used even win the local Lotto Draw!   He used to recognise my car or even the sound of it when I lived at the Square and make his way over to patiently wait for his favourite biscuits.

Two excellent articles appeared in recent “Ireland’s Own” issues (January, 2005)…. one on the history of Kilcorney Feis beautifully written by Mary Gaffney, Killarney Road, Millstreet and featured a colour picture of Seán Buckley, Kilcorney.   The other very interesting article related to the Showband series when the featured Band was “Pat Max and the Specialists” with its members from Ballydaly, Rathduane, Rathmore and Millstreet.

Thought for reflection:  When considering the Country Code – Take nothing but photographs – Leave nothing but footprints!

Back to Top