By Kathleen Mullane

Congrats All Around’

Congrats and well done to Timmy Flaherty (grandson of Joan and Donal Carroll, Dirreen) who won the All Ireland banjo playing competition at the recent Fleadh Cheoil in Ennis.

Congrats and good wishes are extended to Eibhlín McGrath (daughter of Mary and Oliver, Lower Athea) who was recently married to Conor McKenna. The bridesmaids were Michelle Mulvihill, Maireád Doherty and Anna McKenna and the bestmen were Michael McKenna, Brandon O’Shea and Derek Campbell. The couple were married in Crecora Church and everyone had a great day at The Bunratty Castle Hotel.

Last Saturday saw Áine Geaney (daughter of Margaret and Jim, Toureen) marrying Maurice O’Connor (son of Nora and Pa, Carrigkerry). The Nuptial Ceremony was performed by Fr. Paddy Bowen. The bride was assisted by her sister Maireád  and Antoinette and Patricia O’Connor. The best man was John O’Connor and the groomsmen were Paul Cussen and Tom Mulvihill. The flower girl was Freya Cussen. Everyone had a great day at The Devon Inn Hotel. The newlyweds are spending their honeymoon in Las Vegas and Mexico.

Wishing both couples all the very best for their future happiness.

Congrats also go to Dan Sullivan of Knocknagorna who recently celebrated his 60th birthday along with his family. Best wishes go to Dan on this very special occasion for him.

We also congratulate Joe Carey of Gortnagross who celebrated his 70th birthday recently along with his family at Tralee Greyhound Track, Joe being an avid greyhound man.

Mike Woulfe (formerly of Keale, Athea and now residing in Adare) tells us that there is going to be a huge cycle passing through Athea on September 18th. It’s the mid-west cycle in aid of Parkinsons – Alzheimers. All details are on facebook under eventsA@Pwestlimerick challenge. Details also from Mike on 085-1681144.

Sincere sympathy goes to Conny and Patie O’Sullivan of Lower Athea on the recent death of their brother Sean in New York. ‘May he rest in peace’.

Well it’s ‘back to school’ this week for everyone and despite not having a great summer, everyone agrees that it has flown by. And this year the Listowel Races are starting early on September 11th and once they are over, the nights start to close in. But you know what – there’s nothing like sitting beside a big fire on a cold night – so whatever the season – “Enjoy”