Fun times for Wexford guild
Federation president Breda Banville congratulated Mary D’Arcy, arts and crafts officer and member of Ballyfad Guild, on representing Wexford ICA at the Garden Party in the Make and Model competition. She also congratulated Gretta O’Connor of Duncannon Guild, who represented Wexford at the regional finals in the Aldi-sponsored brown bread competition.
The focus of the meeting turned to competitions with the announcement that first place in the Halloween craft contest was going to Oylegate. Oulart and The Maudlins took second and third places.
Breda pointed to guilds celebrating big birthdays this year: Carrig on Bannow Guild marked its 50th anniversary last month, while Duncannon, Kilmore, and Boolavogue are also gearing up for 60 years, 50, and 25 respectively.
Both Breda and her colleague, An Grianán Teachta Ann O’Connor, represented Wexford at the diamond anniversary celebrations of An Grianán. They were accompanied by two Inch Guild members, Kathleen Pierce and Peggy Kavanagh, who recalled being at An Grianán 60 years ago.
A free event run as part of Wexford Creamery’s sponsorship of this year’s Wexford Festival Opera –— A Taste of the Opera — took place in October at Brandon House Hotel, New Ross. Prizes included opera tickets, wine, and Wexford Creamery hampers. On the night, Breda profiled ICA’s work, while federation secretary Mary Fitzgerald presented a slide show.
National ICA secretary Shirley Power; Eileen Fanning, president of Tinryland ICA, Carlow; and her friend Breda Fitzhenry also attended. Neil Murphy of Wexford Creamery reflected on the enormous changes his organisation has experienced since it was founded 54 years ago, while Elizabeth Rose Browne of Wexford Festival Opera spoke of the appeal of the festival to the community.
The audience then enjoyed the fabulous voice of soprano Chloe Morgan with répétiteur Janet Haney accompanying on the piano. Chloe sang Verdi, Monteverdi and Mozart pieces and received a standing ovation. Refreshments were served — Wexford Cheddar and finger food — and attendees mingled after the show.
Wexford Federation held a bowling competition at Leisuremax last week. Meanwhile members are looking forward to seeing Elf the Musical on Wednesday, December 17. International officer Breda Whelan is organising a bus with dinner and show tickets. Phone 086 325 8386 or 053 912 9681.
