By Peg Prendeville

Our lovely sun is gone for the time being but be assured it still shines above the clouds so we hope they disperse soon.

I am embarrassed to say that it was only last weekend I got to listen to Donie Lyons CD so it was with pleasure that I listened to it in the car on my way to Abbeyleix last Sunday. Congratulations to Donie for such a lovely collection of local songs and tunes. It was most pleasant and I really liked that the words of all the songs were included in the little booklet that is with it. I wish him lots of success with it.

It is nice to see all local villages Athea, Glin, Loughill and Ballyhahill looking so well for the Tidy Towns inspections. Lots of flowers to be seen everywhere and all paths swept clean. Congratulations and well done to all involved for their commitment and enthusiasm.

The Loughill/Ballyhahill Going Strong outing to Kerry is being held on next Tuesday the 11th July. The bus will leave Ballyhahill at 8.15 am. The fare is €40 including breakfast and dinner. Names and fares to  Lizzie Woulfe 069/82132 or Eileen O’Connell 069/82229 asap please if interested in joining the group for the day. Let’s hope the weather is fine on the day.

On Thursday 13th July Mary Immaculate College is hosting a one day conference entitled, Let’s Talk Family, Let’s Be Family. This event is part of the preparations for the World Meeting of Families in August 2018. The college is delighted to welcome Cardinal Christoph Schonborn, Archbishop of Vienna, as the key-note speaker. If you are interested in attending please book your place by calling Deirdre on 061 204507 or email: [email protected] Cost = €10

Shannon Gaels 2017 Cúl Camp takes place in Ballyhahill July 31st to August 4th. You can register your child online now at Kellog’s GAA Cúl Camp or on the GAA Croke Park site or contact Norette Behan locally. Shannon Gaels minor footballers have started back training in Ballyhahill with the championship around the corner. Any players interested in playing, contact Declan Looney, John Ambrose or any club officer.

On Sunday July 9th at 1 pm sharp there is a walk being organised on Ballybunion Beach to remember all lost loved ones. All proceeds received on the day will be donated to Children’s Cancer charity Aoibheann’s Pink Tie. Registration from 12 noon, with balloon release at 12.45 hrs. Everybody welcome.