By Peg Prendeville

Isn’t it just lovely to wake up in the morning and see a blue sky and feel the heat and hang clothes out on the line knowing they will be dry in a few hours? And isn’t it strange that when we get a few fine days we almost forget the cold and wet and miserable days? This past week has been a true gift and everybody benefited from it; from the turf-footers to the Fleádh Cheoil enthusiasts in Glin all last week. It brought out the best in everyone and we hope it continues

The county Fleadh Cheoil was a great success in Glin. I am always in awe of all the work that has to go on behind the scenes at an event like this to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Though not a Comhaltas member I could not help but notice the enthusiasm of everybody, members or not, in the area who were willing to help out in any way from cleaning the town, to preparing venues, to organising marquees, to doing tons of paperwork, to making sandwiches and organising teas and coffees for the judges on Saturday and Sunday. Not to mention the hours of meetings prior to the week itself. I commend the Glin people for their dedication. The singing, storytelling and lilting competitions took place in Glin library so I had a great time listening to all the traditional songs which were ably judged by Deirdre Scanlon, who is now a Gárda in Ennistymon. It was great to see so many children learning and singing the traditional songs. There is so much great talent growing up. Congratulations to all those who got 1st and 2nd places and who go on to the Munster in Listowel in July.

Ballybunion was thronged at the weekend due to the marvellous weather. I saw a photo taken on Sunday and it seemed that there was no room for even one more person on the beach or in the water. This probably took from the crowds at Listowel Writer’s week and even the Fleádh Cheoil but we can’t be everywhere at the same time.

It was sad to hear that Muhammad Ali has died. Has anyone noticed how many celebrities whom we used to know have died this year? The names I remember are Muhammad Ali, Prince, Ronnie Corbett, Paul Daniels, Frank Kelly, Terry Wogan, David Bowie and I am sure there are more but that is all I remember now. May they all rest in peace.

Ballyhahill National School Parents Association is looking for anyone who would help out in taking part in bag packing for a fundraising event for the school at Tesco in Abbeyfeale on this Saturday 11th June. Please  contact Fiona on 0877434946 if you can help for an hour or two. Support appreciated.