By Kathleen Mullane

Great Weekend

Well, the Con Colbert Commemoration Weekend was a great success! On Saturday the football blitz at Páirc na nGael attracted huge numbers from both Athea & Castlemahon. The lovely, dry, sunny day was a real added bonus. The games were exciting for all the young players and the over 35s was a real fun game. All the children were treated to drinks and treats and the adults had teas & coffees and of course burgers from Jack Quaid and Noreen were thoroughly enjoyed. All agreed the pitch was a credit to the Athea GAA.

The Colbert Memorial Hall was the venue for the Irish trad concert on Saturday night. ‘Black Bank Folk’ were outstanding to say the least, such talented musicians. They even sang a song written by the late Dan Keane that they had put their own music to called “The Green Fields Around Athea”.

Sunday saw the unveiling of the beautiful bronze sculpture of Con Colbert near the Memorial Hall. This was preceded by a very interesting talk by Jamie Kelly of Clash, a big crowd attended at the school. The unveiling was lovely – the army members were present, as were dignitaries, parishioners, relatives of Con Colbert etc. The bust was blessed by our new Curate, Fr. Brendan Duggan.

In all it was a really nice weekend. Envelopes have been distributed to all households and as many as possible who would like to make whatever contribution they can, they will help to fund the sculpture which hopefully will remain safely intact for many years.

Sincere sympathy is extended to Bridie Twomey, Upper Athea and Geraldine Aherne, Templeathea on the recent sudden death of their sister Mary Ita McFadden. ‘May the light of heaven be hers’.

The recent coffee morning held at the hall in aid of Milford Hospice realized the grand sum of €1,105. Thanks is extended once again to the organizers, those who made all the lovely cakes/buns etc, they were really enjoyed.

This weekend before all masses a Church-gate collection in aid of Epilepsy Ireland will be taken up. Your support for the cause would be greatly appreciated.

All card-game lovers, don’t forget the progressive ‘41 drive’ which starts on this Monday, October 3rd at Brown Joe’s at 9pm. The play will be 2x3s. A great way of using the brain to keep Alzheimers at bay. All money raise will go to the GAA to help offset their debt – please support.

Thought for the week:  “A child should be healthy enough to get dirty and dirty enough to be healthy!”