by Kathleen Mullane 

Out & About 

Little bits of good news for a change – firstly, the Vintage Rally here in Athea is being revived and will take place, hopefully, in September. With regard to this a new committee has been formed and on this Saturday night a fundraising dance will be held at the Top of the Town. All support would be much appreciated.

It is hoped to have a trip to Croagh Patrick on August 12th depending on numbers interested. A deposit of €5 would secure a seat. Further details can be had by ringing  089 4225819.

On September 2nd you are invited to join with us to climb Mangerton Mountain in Killarney. This hopefully may become an annual event as a fundraiser for the Athea Community Hall. Last year was our 1st year and it was an outstanding success with over 90 people including men, women and children doing the climb and raising €5,000 for “your hall”. It was a glorious day and everyone had such fun, so we hope this year will be as good if not better. If you would like to take part please contact Carol O’Connor on 087-1525597 for details or if you would like to take a sponsorship card. All help would be greatly appreciated, as a yearly fundraiser like this is needed for the upkeep of the hall.

Canon Kelly is doing his part I’m told for the Tidy Towns competition – he was seen clipping his hedge last week along the roadside and though in his 80’s he was willing  and able to take this task on – well done.

Attention all you book readers! Now you can avail of your hall for yet another convenience. Each Tuesday from 7-9pm and every Friday from 10am to 12 mid-day, you can call in, browse through books you might like to take away and read – sit down, have a cup of tea or coffee, have a chat if you feel like it and take a few books for free – no charge! If you want to bring in any books they will be welcome, though a limit of 6 at a time, due to lack of storage. If you like you can drop in any donation, not matter how small into a box – this is not compulsory though – any money raised goes to the hall – well done to Helen O’Connor and Sharon Reidy for volunteering.

Sincere sympathy is extended to Sheila Mulvihill and her family of Dirreen, Athea on the death over the weekend of Danny who was in his 80’s. Danny was a hard worker all through his life, always had a smile and ready to share a joke with everyone. In a few words – “he was great craic”. Having been a true and loyal friend to us for up to 30 years – he will be sadly missed by all. “May the light of heaven be eternally his”.