By Kathleen Mullane

“Many Congratulations” 

Well another week of ‘many congrats’ this past week. It was a double celebration, almost together, for Noreen & Gene Brouder when they were blessed with another new grandchild this week, having had another new grand-daughter the week before. This time around it was the turn of their son Conor & his wife Gráinne who had a new baby boy, they are naming Conchúr, a little brother for Seóidín. We also congratulate Bridie & Mike Twomey of Upper Athea who are proud grandparents again also.

Last week also there were a few very ‘special birthdays’ celebrated – Pat Hunt, son of Teady, Coole West, celebrated his 50th birthday in Germany, where he lives, on St. Patrick’s Day. Also Caroline O’Connell (Kelleghan) had her 50th birthday also on St. Patrick’s Day. Maureen Daly O’Flaherty had her 18th birthday at The Mermaids in Listowel celebrated along with her family & friends. Julie O’Connor of Dalton’s Terrace celebrated a very special 60th birthday, also last week. Best wishes and congrats to all the birthday people!

Last Friday was a busy day for parish weddings. Ciara McMahon, daughter of Ita, Dirreen, was married here in Athea to Sean Flavin, son of Nellie & Francie, Hillside Drive. Fr. Cussen performed the Nuptial Ceremony here in Athea Parish Church. A great day was enjoyed by everyone at The Listowel Arms Hotel.

Also on Friday last Tom Collins of Knocknagorna, son of Kathleen & Paddy, was married to Caroline O’Reilly of Cavan. The wedding ceremony took place in Adare with the reception at The Devon Inn Hotel. Again family and friends had a lovely day. Congrats & good wishes to the newly wed couples.

Congrats go to “The Real McCoy” who were winners of the “Best Float” in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Abbeyfeale. Well done to them all and what a colourful display they had.

Sincere sympathy is extended to Kathleen Moore and her family of Hillside Drive on the death of Paddy last week. He was laid to rest after Requiem Mass in Templeathea Cemetery. Paddy had reached a great age. ‘May he rest in peace’.

The death also occurred last week of Joan Mullane of Knocknagorna (sister of Johnny & Conor) who was predeceased very recently by her brother ‘Bawns’ (Patrick). Joan was laid to rest in Knockanure Cemetery. ‘May the light of heaven be hers’.