Congratulations and good wishes go to Marcella O’Grady who, on Saturday night last, had a great surprise 50th birthday party sprung on her by her husband Tom and girls and many relatives and friends at Brown Joe’s pub here in Athea. A great night was enjoyed by all.

Bill Chawke’s pub in Adare is the place to be on Friday night November 23rd, when the final presentation to Joan Freeman of Pieta House will take place. The Carrigkerry Wrenboys are going to add to the atmosphere on the night. It will start around 9 o’clock. This is the culmination of the recent ‘Tomathon’ walk to Dublin and more recently the fundraising night at “The Red Cow” where 19 musical acts gave of their time freely to a packed hall. A total of €14,000 was raised on that night alone and with money still coming in it is likely that a cheque of between €170,000 – €180,000 will be presented on the night – which will no doubt be a huge help to raise suicide awareness. Everyone is welcome for what promises to be a great night.

On Sunday next, November 18th., Fr. Sean McGrath, who was a very good friend of the late Fr. Gerry Roche, will celebrate Mass at 2pm here in Athea Church for the repose of his soul. Everyone is welcome to attend this Mass as we remember Fr. Gerry on his approaching anniversary at Christmas time.

You are asked to give in your names as soon as you can for the annual Going Strong /Vincent de Paul Christmas dinner party which will take place at the Top of the Town on Wednesday, December 12th. You can give your name to Peggy Casey, Bridie O’Shea, Anne O’Keeffe, Mary Kelly or any of the committee.

Well done to Athea Credit Union, Aherne Concrete and Griffin’s Butchers who recently helped to upgrade the basketball kits for the players. You are asked to support the forthcoming Christmas draw which will be held by the Basketball Club and raise much needed funds for them.

Almost all the tables have now been booked for the Christmas Fair which is a fundraiser for the hall and takes place on Sunday, December 9th. It’s going to be a great day with bits of everything on sale from flower arrangements, books, arts & crafts, pictures, unwanted gifts, cakes and much more. A great place to pick up Christmas gifts and at the same time you are supporting your hall.

Congratulations to Kay Dillon of Upper Athea who recently celebrated her 90th birthday along with her family in Tralee. Kay can be seen on Fridays in Athea, never without her make-up and always looks so incredibly young.