A night to be remembered as The Mayo Association Dublin honour the 2010 Award recipients!
This years Mayo Person and Meitheal awards was another success for the Mayo Association in Dublin, with an attendance again of over 700 people in Dublin's City West Hotel. The award winners being honoured with the counties greatest recognition were Joe Kennedy (Doocastle & Manchester) and The Bonniconlon Show Committee. Both recipients were overwhelmed with the level of support their friends, family and colleagues mustered together. Many of our past award recipients were present to celebrate with the 2010 winners, Mayo Person of the Year 2009, Louis Walsh and representatives of the 2009 Meitheal Winners, The Siamsa Sraide Committee. President McAleese was represented on the night by her husband Dr Martin McAleese and daughter Sarah. Dr McAleese opened the celebrations with a personal address to all present and then read a letter of congratulations to Joe Kennedy on behalf of the President.
Upon reveiving his award, Mayo Person of the Year 2010, Joe Kennedy enterained the audience with a beautiful rendition of 'Moonlight in Mayo' and went on to speak eloquently of his memories of Doocastle, emmigration to Manchester and his coloured working career and opportunities to assist with and help others.He made particular reference to his belief in the concepts of Faith, Hope and Charity, and said he hoped he had been true to those three guiding values in his life. Mr Kennedy said he was immensely proud to be named Mayo Person of the Year. Doocastle and Mayo had always remained close to his heart, and he was highly honoured to be recognised by his native county. He paid tribute to his family and especially his wife Kathleen, who celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in January. He invited Kathleen to join him on stage as he was presented with his award by the chairperson of the Mayo Association in Dublin, Sean Reid.
Amidst a roaring cheer, Chairman of the Bonniconlon Show, John O’Hara, accepted the award on behalf of the committee. In his acceptance speech, John was loud in his praise of the community effort that goes into maintaining Bonniconlon as one of the largest of its kind in the country, now in its 60th year. He said it was “humbling” to stand before such a large attendance and accept this prestigious award on behalf of the current members of the show committee. Mr O’Hara also paid tribute to the many volunteers who had built up the Bonniconlon Show since the inaugural event in 1949.He explained the all year round commitment given by so many dedicated people and that he was accepting the award on behalf of a meitheal of in excess of 200 people. He thanked the many individuals and businesses who had supported the show over the years and said the Meitheal Award was the “realisation of a dream” for the many Bonniconlon people who were involved in organising the show.
Music was provided by Keith McDonald and the Showband Show, after which Deirdre and Sylvie Golden from Ballina entertained the patrons into the wee hours, before the curtains finally came down on the celebrations.
Westport Drama Group in Westport performing in Dublin, March 2010.
St Patricks Drama group in conjunction with the Mayo Association Dublin is to perform the hilarious farce ‘A Wake In The West' in Liberty Hall Theatre, Dublin on Saturday 13th March 2010 at 8 p.m.
Admission: €15.00 and €12.00 concessions (students, pensioners & large group bookings).
The play is directed by Martin Curry and Michael Hughes.
About the Play Set in a small village in the west of Ireland in the early 1960's, local man Tom Healy has died and he is being waked in his own house by the sea. He has left instructions, via the local Doctor, that he be cremated and his ashes scattered over the waves. At a time when cremation was unheard of in Catholic Ireland, this posed a problem for his daughter Mary and his son Martin who has returned from the USA for the funeral. Should they bury him properly in a normal grave or accede to his last request? The villagers come to pay their respects; the well meaning helpful neighbours, Joan who was going out with Martin before he emigrated to the States five years earlier, and Margaret, whose own life is not exactly a bed of roses as she is married to Barney, the village alcoholic; Barney also turns up but paying his respects comes only second to the probability, correctly as it turns out, that free drink would be in plentiful supply: Fr Cassidy, the local curate who came to check out the funeral arrangements and Rose, an elderly old spinster who had her eye on one of the deceased most valuable possessions and who is prepared to go to some lengths to acquire it.
Tom Healys remains are prepared for burial at sea but all does not go to plan. One complication leads to another and further confusion reigns when a very important detail, previously overlooked, is revealed.
As in all good stories, all's well that ends well, and so it is in this case. As for poor old Tom Healy, may perpetual light shine upon him and may he find refuge on that Divine Shore somewhere beyond the sea…..
Cast (in order of appearance)
Tom Healy, the deceased .................Pat Gibbons
Mary, Tom's daughter ..................... Regina McCormack
Doctor John ................................... Martin Vahey
Joan, Next door neighbour .............. Rosaleen Heraty
About the author. Michael Joe Ginnelly, a native of Mulranny, wrote this play. He is also the author of ‘Pretend Sick' another hilarious farce and which has been performed in Mayo in recent times. Although written some 20 years ago, the play was first staged by St Patrick's Drama Group in 2004 where it was an immediate success. Such was it's popularity, that it was staged again in 2005 in Westport giving some 20 performances. The Group brought it to St Joseph 's Social Club, in Wembley, London in 2004 where it's two performances there were sold out weeks in advance. The Group brought the play to The Irish American Heritage Centre in Chicago in 2006 where, again, it was an outstanding success. The play has been performed by professional theatre groups in Ireland and has also been translated into French for a performance by a French theatre group.
About St Patrick's Drama Group. St Patrick's Drama Group was founded in 1964 by Martin Curry, the director of the current production, and Michael Collins. The Groups is wholly voluntary and exists to provide live entertainment for the local population. The Group's motto is ‘Drama for the fun of it' and this encapsulates the spirit of the members.
The Groups home has been Westport Town Hall where most of it's production has been staged. The Town Hall will shortly be undergoing refurbishment and recent productions have been staged at Scoil Padraig, on Altamount Street , Westport . The Group has staged play every years since it's foundation (except 1972 when the Hall was last refurbished).
Both awards will be presented at Muintir Mhaigheo Atha Cliath gala banquet on Friday 12th February 2010 at City West Hotel, Saggart, Dublin.
Citation attached for Virginia Gallagher Mayo Person of the Year Award for 2010 and the Mayo Meitheal Award for 2010.
Virginia Gallagher Mayo Person of the Year Award for 2010 – Mr Joe Kennedy
Citation from the adjudicators
The caliber of each of this year's nominees was of an exceptionally high standard; however Joe surpassed all of the other entries for the following reasons:
• Even though he emigrated at 16, Joe remained totally committed to supporting many worthy causes throughout his career .
• A considerable philanthropist, Joe remained true to his roots, contributing more than ten million sterling to a wide variety of charities, including over 900,000 Sterling to Mayo charities, two million euro to the Newman Institute and over 100,000 euro to the diocese of Killala.
• In addition he was hugely responsible for getting the first Catholic University of Ireland off the ground – the Newman Institute in Ballina
• Joe also contributed greatly to the peace in Northern Ireland through many Community based peace initiatives.
• Last but not least, Knock airport has gone from strength to strength since Joe assumed Chairmanship seven years ago. Under his tenure Joe increased passenger numbers from 125,000 to 640,000 this year.
• Even as a retired Chairman of the Board, Joe continues to use his formidable talents to further the airport development.
• We salute Joe and this terrific achievement; we thank him for his huge contribution to Mayo and wish him every success in the future.
Mayo Meitheal of the Year 2010 – Bonniconlon Show
Citation from the adjudicators
We are delighted to announce that we have chosen the Bonniconlon Show for the 2010 Meitheal Award.
The dedication of the people of Bonniconlon to this community based event struck a cord with us.
The Bonniconlon Show, in our view, captures the essence of community spirit, cultural awareness and above all it keeps alive rural Mayo traditions.
This tiny parish of 340 houses and just over a thousand people pull together once a year to organise this multi faceted event, whose competitors come from all corners of Ireland , to challenge local champions in traditional sports, such as Sheaf tossing.
From humble beginnings, The Bonniconlon Show has reached the exalted heights of winning The World Sheaf Tossing Championship. They also hold the All Ireland ‘Beef Calf Pairs' Competition, not to mention the All Ireland Final of the domestic Arts competition.
This truly is a unique example of age old traditions being preserved and brought to life in the 21st Century.
We congratulate you, Bonniconlon and wish you many more years of success in this unique Mayo Event.
Mayo Person of the year 2010 - Joe Kennedy
Patrick Joseph Kennedy (Joe) was born in America in 1936 to his mother Catherine Kennedy and his father Pat Kennedy RIP, both Irish Emigrants.
In 1940 as a 3 year old child Joe went back to live in County Mayo with his parents, and whilst there war broke out. The Kennedy Family decided to stay and set up business in their native Doocastle, where they remained for ever more.
Joe graduated from the local National School in Doocastle, which he and his fellow pupils affectionately called “the Academy”. Like so many others, Joe emigrated to the UK in 1955 to seek employment. Joe was just 16 years of age when he arrived in Lincolnshire looking for a job. He never forgot to send the few shillings home to Mum and Dad, and the family. He then moved to London where, as well as working in the construction industry, he liked to sing in the pubs and clubs.
Manchester Beckons for Joe
In 1958 destiny was to bring Joe Kennedy to Manchester . His meeting with fellow emigrant Kathleen Keevney from Cloonfad, led to their marriage at St. Wilfred's Church in 1960. They were blessed with seven children, 5 boys and two girls, and now many years later, lots of grandchildren.
The Kennedy Business Expands
Joe started to get his business off the ground in 1959. He even tried his hand at the pub business. It was all systems go, but he did not always get it that easy. The first tender he submitted was for gardening at a price of £30. But he ended up with £10. Things started to go right after that experience and he secured his first big contract with Pirelli, followed by a contract with Norweb and many more.
Having enormous success with J. Kennedy & Co. Ltd. Manchester, he expanded into other parts of the UK and from there to the Middle East , and parts of America.
Always a True Friend To Those In Need
Although Joe Kennedy became very successful in business, throughout all those years he gave unceasingly, abundantly, and generously to the needy and less fortunate in the community, whether that be in the UK., Ireland or elsewhere in the world. He had a particular “soft-spot” and regard for his native Mayo however.
The Kennedy Charitable Foundation
Joe set up the Kennedy Charitable Foundation by a deed dated 13/12/1995 .
Over £10 Million Sterling Given By Joe Kennedy To Worthy Causes.
During the period 13th December 1995 to date Joe's Foundation has made donations totaling well over £10 million pounds sterling to hundreds of charities. Joe has donated more than £900,000 (stg) to Mayo Charities. He has given €2 million to the Newman Institute and over €100,000 to the Diocese of Killala.
A True Friend To Those in Need.
Joe Kennedy never misses an opportunity when he hears of someone in need. If he feels help is needed he will respond. All those who know Joe are aware of his most generous nature and how he quietly gives to charity, never revealing the true extent of his generosity to worthy causes and suffering humanity.
The Newman Institute
Joe Kennedy has a long list of accomplishments including getting the first Catholic University in Ireland off the ground, namely the Newman Institute in Ballina, Co. Mayo. Without his contribution and determination this would not have happened.
Peace in Northern Ireland
His contribution to the cause of peace in the North of Ireland through the Healing Ministry of the Reverend Ruth Pattisson in Belfast has been critical. He has contributed in excess of a half million sterling to the cause of peace in NI through community based peace initiatives.
Joe Supports All Good Causes At Home and Abroad
Joe Kennedy's financial and other support of the Rainbow Family Trust in Manchester, of the Safe Start Foundation in London for young Irish Emigrants, the Mayo International Fund for Young Irish Entrepreneurs, to Irish Community Care, to the Little Sisters of the Poor, the Mayo Associations in Manchester and older people through emigrant groups and others in his native Mayo, are just a small sample of the several hundred charities and good causes he supports on an ongoing basis.
The Revitalisation of Ireland West Airport Knock
Since its inception 23 years ago Knock Airport has struggled to survive. Since Joe Kennedy assumed the Chairmanship of the Board of Knock Airport seven and a half years ago, the airport has entered a new era of success. Using his exceptional business acumen, Joe Kennedy has increased passenger numbers from 125,000 to 372,992 passengers in 2004, which has risen to 630,000 passengers in 2008.
Joe has negotiated high powered deals with Government. In 2007 Government confirmed €27.1 million grant aid towards the Airport's Capital Investment 2000 – 2010. Joe has achieved Knock Airport's great success by adding more infrastructure (such as Terminal Apron and Turnpad extensions, CAT II Runway Navigational Aids and Safety and Security Equipment and Systems), by building an excellent airport management team, adding new Air routes, and instilling confidence in the people around him. Knock Airport is now recognized as the fastest growing airport in Europe , and is the essential catalyst for the proper development of the entire BMW area – Joe Kennedy's drive is responsible for this massive growth.
Joe's Good Deeds Are Legion
His good deeds over a great many years are legion and not by any means all recorded, such as his contribution over the years to at least 200 funerals for Irish emigrants to be buried in their native soil. He has been the deserving recipient of many honours for his work, including the Manchester Mayo Association Award and a Knight of St. Gregory Award from Pope John Paul
He has and continues to make an exceptional contribution to Mayo and its inhabitants.
Meitheal Winner 2010 - Bonniconlon Agricultural Show & Gymkhana
Bonniconlon Agricultural Show & Gymkhana is held annually on August Bank Holiday Monday and boasts a prize fund of up to €45,000.
Based in north Mayo, Bonniconlon is a quintessential rural village on the outskirts of Ballina - a hospitable locality which opens its doors to over 30,000 people each year for the one-day show event.
Famed for the Bank Holiday showcase, members of each annual show committee have worked tirelessly to develop and expand its award-winning programme which since 2008, is held on 200 acres of specially-developed showgrounds.
Bonniconlon Agricultural Show & Gymkhana commenced in November 1949. Fueling its establishment were two main ideas that would ensure the development and betterment of Bonniconlon.
Since then, executive committees behind the event continued in its endeavours to achieve the two main goals set out six decades ago: firstly, to present an attractive feature event with an exhibition of all farm and garden produce, animals (including horse and pony show and jumping) and crafts.
Secondly, the concept was aimed at attracting visitors to Bonniconlon to create a meeting point for exiles and domiciled in the large urban centres, to celebrate, to gather and to see again the cultures and traditions of rural life.
From the 1950s right through to the present day, the show has, year on year, pieced together segments of its history and now celebrates a colourful jigsaw of achievements and successes.
Vast improvements have taken place in the accommodation of the event- the showgrounds and adjacent hall. In 2008, the event introduced new showgrounds at the show field and parish centre which now sees the provision of 200 acres to facilitate the ever-growing number of attractions and exhibitions. It is certainly a very different spectacle from the pioneering days of the first committees.
The quality of the stock and the various exhibits; the flower show; cookery; crafts; photography; and junior section have all seen dramatic advancements - and that is to name just a few.
In recent years the show has evolved considerably with the provision of live bands on the field and wide- ranging side shows and events that cater for all ages and interests.
The present committee has proven that it can host a show as entertaining as that of any village, town or city in the county - and maybe even in the entire country. Indeed Bonniconlon Agricultural Show & Gymkhana, taking place each year on the August Bank Holiday, has earned a reputation for being one of the most successful innovative and well- attended shows, attracting visitors from all over Ireland . It is a real, traditional Irish family day out for the thousands of attendees who return every year.
Such success truly is down to the culmination of community effort which continues to see the dreams of its predecessors advanced and expanded.
Tradition holds that the 'show dance' is held in its original venue, the Grove Ballroom in Bonniconlon, has been customary down through the years. Bonniconlon now prides itself on the fact that the Grove has stood the test of time and is now the last original dance hall in existence in the west of Ireland .
Months of planning and organising have ensured that year after year, Bonniconlon Agricultural Show & Gymkhana not only proves every bit as successful as in the previous 12 months - but also develops and improves what the event has on offer. Putting it simply, after 61 years of hard work, dedication and innovation, no other show in its category comes close.
The 7 Day Croagh Patrick Challenge in aid of Autism Action...
The 4th annual 7 day challenge in aid of Autism Action Ireland will take place between March 11th to 17th 2010. The main aim of this event is to help fund the opening of a much needed Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) School in Mayo. This event can be supported by taking on the challenge for the full 7 days or by climbing one or more days.
