by Kathleen Mullane
AN AMAZING WEEKEND
Well doesn’t the fine weather make everything so amazing and this was to be seen on Sunday when the Athea Vintage Rally took place here in lovely Athea. Children along with their parents and grandparents and the whole entourage gathered in the church car park, all bringing along bikes, small tractors, cars and a variety of vehicles for the Kids Rally. Declan Carroll had his music going, Aaron Gillane was on hand selling his sports gear as well as having photos taken with enthusiastic hurling followers which was everyone. It was great to see Melissa Dalton and her family, relatives and friends supporting her and Alan Mulligan along with everyone who gave so generously to aid the RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE, where Mellisa and Alan have spent 13 months as they stay with their little daughter Sophie who is in the care of Crumlin Hospital since she was born.
Melissa Dalton and friend with the
Ronald McDonald rabbit mascot on
Sunday last
Melissa thanked everyone for their support and hopefully, in the not too distant future, they will bring Sophie home. The kids all made their way to the Hall on their vehicles where they had their treats. The vintage cars were a delight to watch all gleaming I may add. I counted 130 tractors of all shapes and sizes involved in the rally. Great credit is due to the organisers and indeed everyone who came out to support the wonderful cause and of course the sun which made it all the better and everyone needed it after all the rain we have had. Long may it continue.
Sincere congrats are extended to Maura Hayes daughter of Rose and Mike of Fairy St, who on Tuesday last was married to Pa Leahy of Granagh here in Athea with Canon Tony Mullins performing the Nuptial Ceremony. The reception was held at The Woodlands Hotel where everyone had a great day.
On Saturday last it was the turn of Johnny Brosnan, son of Joan and Jim of Toureendonnell, who was married to Michelle Wallace in Glin Church. A wonderful day was enjoyed at the Devon Inn by family and friends and on Sunday at The Knockdown Arms. Wishing both couples all the very best for the future.
Sincere sympathy is extended to Margaret Tierney of Templeathea and her family on the passing of their mother Mary Mangan who was a great age last week. Many paid their respects at Riedy’s funeral home in Newcastlewest on Friday evening last. Burial in Ardagh cemetry followed Requiem Mass in Carrigkerry on Saturday. May she rest in peace.
The death also took place last week of Michael Quaid, formerly of Dirreen Athea and Kill Co Kildare where he taught for many years. He reposed at George Mullin’s funeral parlour in Kilcullen Naas followed by cremation. Sympathy to his wife Breda, brothers and sisters and many friends. May he rest in eternal peace.
THE BUGGY CLUB is starting here in the Hall on 11th September at 11 am. It’s the perfect class for any parent who is looking to slowly return to physical activity. The best thing about it is you can bring your baby with you ,——no babysitter is needed. All are very welcome.
TARBERT COMPREHENSIVE celebrated 50 years in existence this week with great celebrations at the school,students being given treats, balloons flying and much more. Richard Prendeville spoke on Radio Kerry on Monday and the school has almost 600 pupils, it being 1 of only 14 in Ireland catering for all grades of pupils. There will be a Dinner Dance before Xmas at Listowel Arms to celebrate the occasion to which all past pupils will be welcome and they are excited to have recently got the good news of a new Extension which will go ahead in the near future.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK—-
Asking for HELP is a sign of STRENGTH— Even in the Darkness a LIGHT can SHINE.