“Many Congrats”

Well it’s been a week of “many congratulations” this past week. We will start with the weddings. Well it was a long journey home for Jacinta White (daughter of Nora and Tommy, Upper Athea) from Australia to get married at home here in Athea to her Australian husband John Verzeletti. A group of over 20 relatives also travelled for the happy occasion. A great day was had by all at the Devon Inn. We send heartiest congrats to the happy couple and a safe journey back to Oz, to all who travelled.

On Saturday also, Lizzy Sheehan (daughter of Máiread and Eddie of Toureen) was married to Donal Mangan of Knocknagoshel at the Prince of Peace Church in Fossa, Killarney. Their reception was held at the Malton Hotel, Killarney and a very enjoyable day was had by everyone. Congrats to the newly-weds and wishing them all the best for their future happiness.

Congrats are also extended to young rising star Tommy Quaid (son of Margaret and Tom Quaid of Dirreen) who is really making a name for himself in the horse-racing circuit. Recently at Glenbeigh races he came in 1st place on day 1 and 2nd place on day2 in the main races of the day. Well done to Pius Collins also whose horse he rode. Watch this space!

Well the biggest “Congratulations” must go to the Athea Tidy Towns Committee who, this week, have received the outstanding news that their brilliant efforts over the past 12 months have definitely not gone unnoticed!  Last year Athea scored a total of 202 points; this year we upped a massive 28 points to 230, the highest score Athea has ever received and deservedly so considering the endless hours of effort, cleaning, painting, weeding, watering, rubbish collecting, lawn mowing and so much more, all voluntary by such dedicated people. Athea was also awarded a special “endeavour” or “effort” award. This award went to 30 groups out of 300, so Athea was up there with the best of them. We must continue to help out if the marks are to be kept high, whether it’s by pulling a weed or picking up someone’s rubbish. Athea is definitely a nicer, cleaner and well kept village. Well done to all. Please support the Fashion Show on Sept. 28th  for the Tidy Towns. Tickets are selling like “hot buns” these days.  It should be a great night and the local models will make it all the better!

Don’t forget to support the annual Coffee Morning in aid of Milford Hospice in the Hall on Thursday Sept. 19th and of course, as always, there will be cakes and buns aplenty to go with the tea and coffee.

Athea Walking /Jogging Group

A get-together for the above group will be held on Oct. 5th in Brown Joe’s for all who took part in the group since last Easter. Everyone is welcome to come along for a few drinks and finger food. Also it is hoped to organise a 5K run in aid of the Tidy Towns. All help would be appreciated. A lot of fit men and women in the parish now.