Congratulations and good wishes are sent to Maura Hayes, Fairy Street, Templeathea, daughter of Rose and Mike, who celebrated her 21st birthday on Friday night last with a great party at the Top of the Town. A huge crowd of friends joined the family and relatives and all had a very enjoyable time.

Best wishes are extended to Diarmuid and Áine O’Riordan who have extended their pharmacy business with the opening of their new premises in Ballingarry. We wish them well.

Fr. Seán McGrath, a very good friend of Fr. Jerry Roche R.I.P., said Mass here in Athea on Sunday afternoon last. As Fr. Jerry’s second anniversary was fast approaching it was a really opportune time to have Mass offered in his memory. Fr. Seán teaches at the top Notre Dame University, USA, and was holidaying in the area with his mother and father. Family, neighbours and friends attended and it felt that Fr. Jerry was truly “in spirit” in the Church with the congregation. Erin Stack and Margaret Carroll sang beautifully throughout. Fr. Jerry built a church, a school, a clinic and had a farm in each of the seven parishes he had served in overseas. Fr. Seán stated that Fr. Jerry had such an influence on him as a 7 year old, who had attended one of his missions, that he had never looked back. In all a truly spiritual experience.

Once again Athea Utd Soccer Tournament is taking place on St. Stephen’s Day and is a charity fundraiser and also the UTD Schoolboys will benefit. It will be played on the Astro Turf and entry is just €10. Names should be given to John Hunt, Kevin O’Keeffe, Tim O’Riordan or Pat Walsh. This is always a great fun day with some laughs.

On this Sunday, November 25th at 7.10pm on TG4 Athea Community First Responders will feature. There will be different views of Athea and Dr. Murphy and Timmy Woulfe will speak “as Gaeilge”. Don’t forget to tune in – it’s great to see Athea on the map.

Charlie Chawke’s pub in Adare is the place to be on this Friday night, where the final presentation cheque will be handed over to Joan Freeman of Pieta House, following the recent fundraising Tomathon and the recent big Music Night at the ‘Red Cow Inn”. The Wrenboys from Carrigkerry will be there on the night. Everyone is welcome and it promises to be a “Spectacular Night”.