by Kathleen Mullane

‘Out and About’

Sincere congratulations go to Joanne Murphy, (daughter of Dr Kieran and Val) who has recently become engaged to Timmy Ahern (son of Ted and the late Margaret). Wishing them all the very best for their future happiness.

Well, another month almost gone by and this weekend sees the 1^st of May, therefore this Saturday is ‘May Eve’ the day when long ago the cows, hens, sheds and everything was blessed with Holy Water to keep the ‘pisheogs’ and whatever else away . It was also the day when men and women far and wide made their way to the Blessed Well in Templeathea, cycling or walking long distances to get there – how times have changed!

Sincere sympathy is extended to the Scanlon Family of Knocknagorna on the death of Ellie this past Holy Week. ‘May the light of Heaven be hers’.

Congratulations and well done to all those from Athea who took part in the various Community Games Competitions recently and especially to those who brought home medals. We congratulate Claire Carmody of Dirreen who was presented with her bronze medal in Rathkeale for coming 3^rd in the County Art Competition.

To the Athea Choir who on Tuesday night last “sang their hearts out” at the Woodlands and also came in 3^rd place for doing so .

And last but by no means least the “Athea Vixens” – U-13’s who also got a 3^rd place in Basketball.

Well done to them all and especially to their coaches and trainers. Here’s to the remainder of the competitions.

Thanks to everyone who has been so good as to give us their unwanted scrap metal, iron etc., for the hall fund-raiser, the heap is growing. One load has already been deposited at South West Bins and every load will be money paid off the hall debt. Even people from outside the parish have opened their sheds and garages etc., and have done a clean out, all willing to help out – it’s great.

Our next meeting is on Wednesday May 4^th and I will keep you updated on the ‘SCRAP’ progress. Well done, especially to those in particular who loaded and gathered up the scrap for us. It’s not too late yet – keep it coming, ring us if you want us to call for yours!

Good crowds attended the Easter week devotions and of course the choir on Saturday night at the Vigil Mass was once again exceptional – maybe they should be thinking of taking part in a Choir Competition for adults.