by Peg Prendeville

Sincere sympathies to Catherine Moran, Toureendonnell, and her family on the death of her husband John after a rather long illness. John was such a kind, quiet man and always welcomed me to their house when his sister Margaret R.I.P. and I were friends from the age of 13 years til she died all too soon in 1996. Catherine and I sat beside each other in Neodata in Newcastlewest in 1971 for a few months until both Margaret and I joined the Civil Service in Dublin that same year. May John rest in peace.

Congratulations to Ballyhahill N.S. pupils Cleo, Àine, Rìain, Saibh, Klara, and Ayda on their outstanding performances at the Clonshire Equestrian Interschools Competition on Monday! The 60cm team placed 8th, and the 80cm team achieved an impressive 2nd place finish. Well done to these young riding enthusiasts. It was also wonderful to see past pupil Ross Philips representing Tarbert Comprehensive School.

Ballyhahill school is privileged to have beautiful grounds and open spaces for the children. But unfortunately there are not enough funds to pay a caretaker to keep the grounds in good order. A clean and safe environment is crucial for the school community. So the school is looking for voluntary caretakers to create a rota to take care of the grounds. If anybody is willing to be part of this project please contact any of the following 069/82217, email [email protected] or [email protected]. I’m sure any help will be very much appreciated. There are presently five children from the Knockdown area going to the school.

I attended the drama in Athea last weekend. I was very impressed. Even though the actors had only a short time to put it all together it was a huge success. Well done to producer Julie Moloney and all  the cast involved in Dear Mr. O’Connor. It was a laugh from beginning to end. But I couldn’t help thinking that John B got away with murder in writing this. It wouldn’t be tolerated now. But he had such a humorous way of writing one would have to forgive him. He was a genius. Thanks also to the Comhaltas members who entertained with fine rousing music.

The Abha Bhán Players have decided to produce THE FIELD by the same John B Keane for their next venture. More excitement in store.

A lot of Halloween activities took place at the weekend but the actual Halloween is celebrated this Thursday night followed by All Saints Day on Friday and All souls Day on Saturday. These were all big important feasts 50 years ago when times were very different.