By Kathleen Mullane
‘Happy St. Patrick’s Day’
Well, this Thursday sees St. Patrick’s Day upon us and how quickly it seems to have arrived! As someone said to me the other day and I quote – “we hardly have the Christmas decorations put away yet and Easter is around the corner” – as they say “Tempus Fugit” or in plain English ‘Time Flies’.
Well everyone claims to have a drop of Irish blood in their bodies on this very special day! In years gone by all the girls had green ribbons etc on their hair, all the children saved their money for weeks to buy the biggest and most colourful St. Patrick’s Day badge they could find. The men then would wear a green shirt or tie and the ladies a green scarf or coat or jacket and of course “a big spray of shamrock”. Parades this year will be in Abbeyfeale, Listowel, Rathkeale and of course the major towns and cities – Newcastle West parade however will be on Sunday 20th. Hopefully the weather will remain nice and dry for the celebration of our Patron Saint.
“The storm-tossed cornfield and trees, dark mountains and sky depict the turmoil of our time. But Patrick offers faith, strength and compassion”. (Sr. Aloysius McVeigh)
Well, “The Hen Night Epiphany” came to a grand close on Sunday night after a very successful run yet again for the Athea Drama Group. The takings on Sunday night went to three charities each receiving €700 each, namely Crumlin Hospital, The Joanne McMahon fund and Ronald McDonald House, all very good causes – well done.
Congrats to Helen Hayes (nee Brosnan) who celebrated her 40th birthday at the Top of the Town on Saturday night last. Her husband Micky also celebrated his 40th recently. It was a fancy dress party and everyone from ‘Al Capone to Minnie Mouse’ joined in the fun – Gerry Griffin got best dressed as Ali G – a rapper. A great night was enjoyed by family and friends.
Two fantastic basketball games were played in the hall here on Sunday morning last.. Both having nail-biting finishes to say the least. The U-16boys won out the league against Gneeveguilla at the last minute of play and the U-12 boys won by just 1 point 37 to 38 also in the final minute. Well done to Trish and the teams
On Wednesday next, March 23rd Gaelscoil Ó Doghair in Newcastle West are holding a Bingo fundraiser for their school of which Kathleen Shanahan, Lower Rd, is principal. Your support on the night would be most welcome. Anyone wishing to travel can contact me on 087-1233361 – a bus will travel on the night.