Congratulations and well done to the senior pupils of Athea NS who, under the guidance of teacher Michelle Kearney, were chosen to take part in the ‘Young Scientists Exhibition’ which was held at the RDS last week. They travelled up to Dublin in the early hours of Friday morning last. Their project was ‘The contamination of food in conjunction with the use of household detergents’. It was a great experience for them no doubt as they mingled with all the other students and saw various projects. Well done to them and who knows in the future they might make it to ‘the top’.

This Wednesday, January 15th is the Feast of St. Ita – the Patroness of the Limerick Diocese. It’s a lovely day in the parish of Killeedy and that night a dance and function takes place with music by P.J. Murrihy.

The Athea Ladies football club would like to thank everyone who gave so willingly to their annual Church gate collection this past weekend, it was much appreciated.

Don’t forget Athea Coiste na nÓg are holding their AGM on this Sunday evening, January 19th at 7pm in the Clubhouse. It’s imperative that parents of the young footballers attend to give them support and where possible to lend a helping hand. Some parents have been exceptional and give their time to help at many activities – however, it seems to be the same people all the time – so “new faces” would be really welcome, both women as well as men.

Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Nellie O’Sullivan of Lower Athea who passed away at the weekend. A “true lady” in every sense of the word, who reared a large family in difficult times. No doubt she will be hugely missed. Sympathy is also extended to Catherine Moran of Knocknagorna on the death of her brother Martin, who reposed at Reidy’s Newcastle West on Monday evening.

May they rest in peace.

Just looking at a programme about India on TV3 and the difference here with children strapped into their car seats and most parents taking the safety precautions, whereas in India one can see the Dad driving a scooter or moped with the wife/mom up behind and the baby or child up on her lap. – 3 to a bike in other words!