Notices

PROLOGUE:  “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.”
Connie Stevens

DEATH:  Sincere sympathy is offered to the Collins family, Dromtrasna Collins on the death of Aoife.  May she rest in peace.

BINGO AT MOUNTCOLLINS COMMUNITY CENTRE:  A fundraising Monster Bingo will take place on Sunday, February 19 at 3pm sharp.  There will be a huge raffle and a prize fund of €2,000.

IMPORTANT DEADLINE FOR LEADER FUNDING: Monday, February 27 is the deadline for submission of Expression of Interest for projects in the areas of Community Services & Facilities and Innovative Rural Enterprise.  Limited funding available.  Apply now.  For more information see www.wlr.ie or email [email protected]

FUNDRAISING CARD GAME:  The annual Bord na nOg Card Game will take place at Fr Casey’s Clubhouse on Friday, February 10  at 9pm. Lots of spot prizes will be given out on the night with tickets costing just €5. Anyone interested in buying a ticket should make contact with a member of the Bord na nOg Committee as soon as possible. All welcome.

COMMUNITY ALERT NOTES:  If you are aware of domestic violence against either men or women log onto www.whatwouldyoudo.ie for a list of services and advice.  Text Alert is up and running – contact any member of the committee to sign up.  Check out our FB page Abbeyfeale Community Alert for all the latest updates from local Gardai.

TOURISM ACCOMMODATION FUNDING & INFORMATION EVENING:  Grant funding through the LEADER Programme 2014-2020 will be open for tourism accommodation applications from Friday, February 17.  An information evening will be held on Monday, February 20 at 7.30pm in the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West, to outline the details of the grant programme.  For more information see www.wlr.ie or email [email protected]

MOCK WEDDING:   You are all invited to a Mock wedding at the Railway Bar @ 7.30pm on Friday, March 10.  Proceeds in aid of Nicole Prendiville Doyle who is travelling to Uganda in June with Nurture Africa. There will be a raffle, spot prizes for the most appropriately dressed guests, largest hat, snazziest man, highest heels and more. The bride’s grand aunt Reverend Mother Concepta will be present and we hope that people will remember to cover up as Rev. Mother Concepta has been in an enclosed order for over 60 years and is easily shocked and can be very vocal when expressing her disapproval of scantily dressed young wans.  Tickets €10 available locally includes entertainment, finger food and DJ Tiny.  Phone 087-6657154.

FLEADH BY THE FEALE:  Taking place this year from April 27 – May 1, the committee have just announced that the lead act will be the world renowned fiddler Frankie Gavin and De Danann.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  Mike Condon will provide the music at the first afternoon tea dance in Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse for 2017 which takes place on Sunday, March 12.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY COUNCIL:  Our next monthly meeting will be held in Leen’s Hotel on Thursday, February 9 at 7.30pm.  It is expected that the normal Monthly Meeting will follow directly after this AGM. All are welcome to attend and new members are always welcome.

A fundraising Card Night takes place at Fr Casey’s GAA Clubhouse on Friday, February 10 at 9pm sharp. Tickets costing €5 can be bought from Moss Harnett’s Spar, from Committee Members or at the door on the night. Lots of Spot and Door Prizes to be won! All are Welcome.  The Abbeyfeale Enterprise Expo is quickly gathering pace with over 100 confirmed Exhibitors so far for the 03^rd and 04^th of March event. Bank of Ireland is the main sponsor so it’s free to exhibit and it’s free to enter. A real Community atmosphere is guaranteed to be had by all. With a national celebrity expected to attend this is a reminder to all potential exhibitors to get those application forms filled and back to Bank of Ireland Abbeyfeale asap. before the remaining slots are fully booked.

DANCE ON ST. PATRICKS’ NIGHT:  The Friends of St Ita’s Hospital, Newcastlewest recently purchased a brand new mini bus costing €62,000  to commute patients to and from the hospital to social activities outside and within of the hospitaland the community.  A dance with music by the Premier Blue Boys along with special guests Noreen Ashe From Annascaul , Marian Kirby From Caherconlish , and Mike Mini Moore McCarthy Duagh will be held on Friday, March 17.   A great night is promised, music starts at 10pm doors open at 9.   Finger food and lights refreshments will be served and a raffle of beautiful spot prizes will take place.Admission €10, for more details contact Benny on 0879918546.

ABBEYFEALE HARRIERS:  The Annual Hunting Festival begins on Sunday, February 12 at Walsh’s Bar Knocknagoshel with the Stonehall Harriers.  All meets at 11am, hunting is on foot and the quarry is fox.  Cap €10 per meet.   Food kindly sponsored by publicans.    Please show respect to Landowners and their property at all times.  Enquiries: Doug McGuinness (Hon. Sec. Abbeyfeale Harriers) 087 6829044 or Paddy O’Grady 087 6258933.  Supported Charity – The Irish Cancer Society.

CAR BOOT SALE AND INDOOR MARKET:  The monthly car boot sale and indoor market in aid of West Limerick 102fm commences for 2017 on Sunday, February 19.

For more information contact Bernadette at West Limerick 102fm on 06966200.

WEST LIMERICK HERITAGE NETWORK:  A meeting will be held on Wednesday,, March 1 at 7.30pm at the West Limerick Resources office.  All those with an interest in the history and heritage of West Limerick are invited to attend.

LAUNCH OF NEW SONG:  William Reidy, son of Big Ivan who along with Big Maggie played music all over West Limerick, has written a song about the late MurtDownes’s protégé Benny Thade, the DJ on West Limerick 102. He plans to launch it in Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse on Monday, March 6 at Benny Thade’s Rambling House.  Everyone welcome.

A DATE FOR THE DIARY:  Abbeyfeale Drama Group are  rehearsing at present for their production  of a Michael J Ginnelly Play   ‘A  Wake in the West’  which will be begin its run at Fr. Casey’s on St. Valentine Night and continue through February on 16,18,19,21,23,25 and finishing up on Sunday, February 26.

EXPO: The Bank of Ireland Enterprise Town Expo will take place on Friday, March 3 from 6-9pm and Saturday, March 4 from 11am -1.30pm at Colaiste Ide agusIosef.  The programme brings local businesses and communities together to boost and promote economic activity in the town.  Following the launch at the Glórach last Tuesday night we have a huge variety of stalls booked from local businesses, to sporting organisations, to social groups, to artistan producers and more – over 70 stalls booked on the night. We hope to showcase all Abbeyfeale and hinterland has to offer.  Bank of Ireland will be sponsoring the stalls, food, face painting and it promises to be a great weekend for all the family.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY:  A Valentine’s ball will take place on Saturday, February 11, in Rathkeale House Hotel.  All proceeds are going to Milford hospice and The Alzheimers Society Adare Branch.  It kicks off at 7pm with a prosecco reception, followed by 5 course meal with complimentary wine.  Lots of pop-up entertainment and lots of freebies.  Special guest Emmett Daly, Voice of Ireland.  Dance the night away to Keep in Touch.

MC for the night is Tim Cusack from The Limerick Panto society Limetree Theatre.

This is not a Black Tie Event, neat dress essential, but is Ticket Only.

Tickets are €50 per person or Table of 10 is €450. Ring, text to reserve your tickets, Available fromRathkeale House Hotel, Mary Roche on 087 7473550,  MauriceCremins086 3530096.

HEALTH HAZARD STRIKES AGAIN:  The scourge of dog poo has struck again and we have been contacted by concerned walkers on the Killarney Road that the footpath is again strewn with dog faeces which is getting stuck in the wheels of prams and strollers and smeared on the soles of shoes and runners.  The dog warden has promised to visit the town in the near future.

BORD NA nOG :  Fr Casey’s Bord na nOg would like to remind everyone that due to Child Protection and Insurance Policies, no youngster will be allowed to train or play without first been fully Registered, Fee fully paid and wearing a GAA approved Gum Shield which can be purchased at most sports shops.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT:  A Personal Development Course will run in the Further Education and Training Centre Abbeyfeale from Monday, February 6 and run for 6 weeks until March 20 from 10am to 12pm.  This very unique course is in two parts,  the second part to run in September  Free To Be has been developed in such a way that it encourages and enables you to look at ways of: improving your daily life, manage stress and stressful situations, develop relaxation skills & self care. If you are interested in attending please book a place with Mary  087 9382883 or Nora  068 31198. Booking is essential.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT:  ARA na Feile  meeting on Wednesday, February 1 @ 2pm, they will have a speaker on mildfulness present .

SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES AT THE RAILWAY:  Social dance classes have resumed at the Railway Bar on Tuesdays, beginners class at 8,30pm and advanced from 9.30pm to 11pm. New people are always welcome.

“LAST ONE FOR THE ROAD” the final collection of short stories and essays by Raymond Fennelly is again available at Ann Lyons Shop in The Square, Abbeyfeale.

LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:   Toastmasters will continue on the first and third Wednesday every month until May 2017. Next meeting Wednesday, February 15 at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West from 8-10pm.  Further information 087 7972855.

Toastmasters provide you with the tools to become a confident speaker in a safe caring environment where everyone is on the same path.  Great for anyone who finds it hard to stand up in public and get their opinion across.

ABBEYFEALE’S SINGING CLUB:  West Limerick singing club monthly singing session take place on the first Friday of every month in the Ramble Inn Bar, Abbeyfeale.

ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP meet every Tuesday & Thursday morning from 11am to 12:30pm in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  Great opportunity to meet other parents for cup of tea and chat, where children play in a safe environment.  New parents and toddlers are always welcome.  If you have any queries please contact Mary in West Limerick Resources on 087 938 2883.

RATHKEALE & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The next talk on Friday, February 10 at 8.30 pm will be on “Irish Political Prisoners’ Memoirs During the 19th and 20th Centuries “  Speaker:  William Murphy, History Lecturer in  Dublin City University.  The venue is the Arts Centre, Carnegie Library, Rathkeale.   All are welcome.  Free Admission.

SHAKE IT UP:  West Limerick branch of the Irish Red Cross are encouraging you to Shake It Up.  The Limerick branches of the Irish Red Cross have just launched a recruitment drive for new adult members to join the organisation. With over 500 members attending over 250 events throughout the year, the services provided by the Irish Red Cross are vital to the City and County.More help is always needed however and the West Limerick branch are appealing for volunteers to join them in a variety of roles including fundraising, first aid provision and ambulance and mini bus drivers. If you are interested in volunteering you can contact us by calling our dedicated volunteering line on 086-1425000 or by email at  [email protected]. We will be hosting an information stand in St. Ita’s Hall on Wednesday, February 8 from 7-8pm.

‘COME AND SEE’;  A vocations event is being held in the Pallottine House, Thurles on February 17/18 next.  It is for men aged 18-40  thinking about the priesthood.  Contact Fr. Tony or Fr. Joe for further details.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915,  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984 Console 061-306792

Fr. Anthony Mullins P.P.  068/31157     Fr Joe Foley CC:  Tel:  087 – 2618412.   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Mass Tuesday – Saturday at 10am except in the event of a funeral when Mass is 11am.  Mass on Saturday 11am.  Mass Intentions: Wednesday 8.15am  John Collins 10am William & Julia Madden .  Saturday 11am   Feast of    Our Lady of Lourdes . Mass intentions for next weekend  7pm   Jimmy Ahern, Shanbally             Peter Scannell, Clash Road Sunday 9.30am  Joe Murphy, Radharc na Feile  12noon Larry Corbett .

Synod update  Meeting : A meeting will take place in the  Devon Inn of Thursday, February 9 @ 7.30pm. Pastoral council members are asked to attend..

Novena prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  As due to data protection laws, priests can no longer go to the reception desk in local hospitals and get a list of parishioners who are patients, you are requested to contact either Fr. Joe or Fr. Tony if you wish them to visit.

To see the daily readings you may log on to www.abbefelaeparish.ie and click on daily reading on the home page.  Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish for the church webcam.  You can now watch all services from home if you have access to a computer. You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

.ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE EVENTS: Reflection Day with Bishop Brendan Comiskey: Saturday, February 18 (open to all) 10.00am – 5.00pm , Sunday 10.00am-5.00pm (for those in recovery, family & friends).   Please contact: 066 713 4276 .

LISTOWEL/NORTH KERRY MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS COFFEE MORNING: The annual St Valentine’s Day Coffee Morning takes place on Saturday next, February 11 at Tomaisin’s, Lisselton. Time: 11.00am – 1.00pm.  Your support will be much appreciated. All funds raised by the Listowel/North Kerry branch remain in the locality FREE HELPLINE:  Rehab Recovery offers a free helpline and intervention service for people suffering from eating disorders. Tel: 0800 088 66 86 Website: http://www.rehab-recovery.co.uk/

NEW TOASTMASTER CLUB IN LISTOWEL:  If you would like to gain self confidence, self esteem and improve your ability to speak in public then you should check out the newest public speaking club in North Kerry.  The next meeting will be held in the Listowel Arms Hotel on Thursday,  February 16 from 8 -10pm.  Admission €5 which covers cost of refreshments and rent of the room.  Further information from Gerard Mannix on 087 2193670.

LEARN SOCIAL DANCING:  Eileen McDonagh from Tournafulla has started a social dancing class at the Parish Hall in Newcastlewest on Monday nights from 8-10pm.  Everyone welcome.

JIM LYONS’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  Held on the third Tuesday of the month inKnockaloucca.

SET DANCE CLASSES:  Set dancing classes in Ballyhahill Community Centre from 8.30-10.30pm every Monday.  Further information from Seamus 0851149796.

MONAGAE RAMBLING HOUSE:  The monthly rambling house in Monagae Community Centre takes place on the 2^nd Monday of the month.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE:  May 31 to June 7, 2017. Daytime flight to Mostar (40 mins from Medjugorje and return from Dubrovnik). Spiritual Director Fr. Sean Corkery. Cost €719.00 on a Half Board basis per person sharing including flights, airport transfers, taxes, and travel insurance. €200 deposit secures place. 15 places left on this pilgrimage. Contact Sean O’Shaughnessy 086 2959380.

SOCIAL DANCING CLASS:  Classes have commenced in Monagae Community Hall on Fridays from 9 – 10.30pm.  All welcome.

STRESS LESS PARENTING PROGRAMME:  Hospital Family Resource Centre are delivering a 7 week parenting programme starting Thursday, February 9 from 7.30 p.m.—9.30 p.m. This parenting programme aims to increase parent’s confidence in parenting and help them to manage stress in their daily family life. The course is for all parents with the main focus on them as an individual, empowering them to recognise their own strengths and talents and deal better with stress both inside and outside the home. Course cost €20 per family.

PLAY: Athea Drama Group comedy ‘Anyone Could Rob a Bank’, will be staged at the Con Colbert Memorial Hall on Feb 9/ 11/12/16/,18& 19.  Starring our own Angeline O’Donnell.

LEARN FROM HOME:  With the Priory Institute you can study from the comfort of your own home at your own pace and build modules towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. Application deadline : February 28, 2017.   Call (01) 4048124. www.prioryinstitute.com

LIKE TO QUIT SMOKING IN 2017:  A HSE 6-week ‘Stop Smoking’ support group will start in: K.D.Y.S , Denny St, Tralee on Tuesday, February 28 – Tuesday, April 4 inclusive from   6.00pm – 7.00 pm.The course is free of charge and delivered by a Smoking Cessation Officer, every Monday evening for 6 consecutive week.  It offers support & practical advice on how to quit, different approaches and techniques for quitting, coping with withdrawal (weight gain, cravings, etc) and relaxation techniques.  Please confirm booking as places are limited with:  Mary: 066 – 7195617, Kerry Community Services, H.S.E. South, Rathass, Tralee.

ANNIVERSARY OF FENIAN RISING:  The 150th Commemorations will take place on the weekend of Sunday, March 5 in Ardagh.   A visual history display will run all weekend in the hall.  There will be an Irish Rambling House on the Saturday evening and then on Sunday the walk of the Fenians will be re enacted and followed by a Historical Fair which will include Cross Roads Dancing, Pony and Trap rides, Skittles, Horse Shoe Throwing, Pitch and Toss, Sheaf Tosssing and a mini food and craft market.  The St Kierans Heritage Association have published a commemorative booklet.  Author Mary Kury  €5.

GLENSTAL RETREAT:   As we all live longer, can we age well? This workshop will reflect on the challenges of ageing. It will consider the need for a ritual of transition and whether there are spiritual practices suited to this stage of life.  Retreat takes place in Glenstal Abbey Saturday, February 11.  Fee €85 includes tea/ coffees, talks and lunch. To reserve a place please email on [email protected] or call (061) 621000.

CATHCHING YOUR BREATH IN GLENSTSAL:  A one-day workshop of gentle movement, breath, chant and meditation Glenstal Abbey, Murroe Saturday, February 25 from 9.30am – 5pm.  Fee €85, includes workshop, materials, lunch, teas and coffees. Workshop Leader, Niall Kelly is a certified Alexander Technique teacher who has been teaching since 2004. He has run a number of similar workshops in Glenstal and around Ireland. He also teaches Alexander Technique on the MA in Ritual Chant and Song in UL, and on a number of other programmes.  Contact [email protected]

PROLOGUE:  “We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop” – St. Mother Teresa

ABBEYFEALE HARRIERS:  The Annual Hunting Festival begins on Sunday, February 12 at Walsh’s Bar Knocknagoshel with the Stonehall Harriers.  All meets at 11am, hunting is on foot and the quarry is fox.  Cap €10 per meet.  It continues on Monday, February 13 in The Goalpost Bar, Tournafulla with the Macroom Foxhounds then on Tuesday, February 14 at Shanahan’s Bar, Strand with the Liscarroll Harriers.  It continues on Wednesday, February 15 in the Woodview Bar in Brosna with the Carraigshane Harriers moves to Flemings Bar in Scartaglen with the Dungannon Foxhounds, Tynan and Armagh Hunt and the Minerock Harriers – this is a Memorial Meet for John O’Connor.  It finishes up on Friday February 17 with a Memorial Meet for the late Jackie O’Grady with the Rooves Bridge Harriers and the Rockfield Harriers.  Food kindly sponsored by publicans.    Please show respect to Landowners and their property at all times.  Enquiries: Doug McGuinness (Hon. Sec. Abbeyfeale Harriers) 087 6829044 or Paddy O’Grady 087 6258933.  Supported Charity – The Irish Cancer Society.

RAMBLE INN SING ALONG FOR THE CAROLINE FOUNDATION:   On Friday, February 3 the monthly singing club at the Ramble Inn will be held in aid of the Caroline Foundation which funds cancer research.  Everyone is welcome to come along on the night as either a performer or audience member and a collection will be taken up.

Caroline Dwyer-Hickey was a wife, a daughter, and a sister.   She passed away aged 35 after a nine year battle with cancer.  Following Caroline’s death in 2013, her family, and friends of the Cancer Clinical Research Trust (CCRT) established a Foundation in her memory to help fund the work of the CCRT.  Caroline was a pioneer of cancer research and she was the first in Ireland to participate in some trials through the CCRT which has bases in UCD, DCU and St. Vincent’s University Hospital.   The custom-made treatment she received not only extended but enhanced Caroline’s life.   Having benefited from clinical trials in both Ireland and the US, Caroline was a public advocate for cancer research, and firmly believed that research is key to finding a cure.  The Caroline Foundation for Cancer Research share this belief.   Please help them to support the ground-breaking work of Prof. John Crown and his team at the CCRT.

THANK YOU FROM THE GLÓRACH:  All good things must come to pass, and so it is with our successful production of the powerful John B Keane play, The Highest House on the Mountain.  No production could take place without a tremendous team of volunteers both on and off stage and we at the Glórach Community Theatre would like to acknowledge all involved.  A massive thanks to all the cast and crew for their patience and dedication in bringing this play to fruition.  A massive thanks to all the front of house staff who ensured things ran smoothly in the foyer, took bookings, served tea and coffee, and ran very successful raffles.  Thanks to all our sponsors who donated raffle prizes and also to the sandwich maker who gave sustenance to the cast and crew backstage.  And finally, thanks to all of you who came and supported us, who spread the good word and publicised the event, who gave us good wishes and feedback, and ultimately made all the long winter nights of rehearsals so worthwhile.  Go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.

COMMUNITY ALERT: If you wish to sign up to Text Alerts contact any member of the committee.    Deirdre Walsh on her Radio Kerry programme’ Talk About’ recently had a piece from a Tralee Garda about recent scams which seem to be targeting people who have held on to their  land lines.  It’s mostly elderly people who have done so – if you get a call purporting to be from a bank looking for information on your credit card his advice is “ just hang up”.  Give out no pin numbers or any information over the phone – let the bank write you a letter.  He also announced that the Gardai have a new FB page for this division and you are invited to like the page in order to receive regular updates – ‘Garda Síochána – Cork, Kerry and Limerick Division.’

MASS OF THANKSGIVING:  A Mass will be said on Monday, January 30 at 7pm in Thanksgiving for all who commit of their time in Adoration in the Blessed Sacrament chapel during the year.  Thanks also to all who sign down a particular hour each week and Perpetual Adoration   during Lent. The Lenten Chart will be available shortly for this year’s Lenten Adoration.  We encourage as many as possible to come to this Mass. Light refreshments will be served in St Ita’s Hall after the Mass. All are welcome.

HORSE AND PONY RACES:  The AGM of Abbeyfeale races will take place in Leens Hotel on Tuesday, January 31 at 9 pm.  New members are needed to ensure this year’s races go ahead.  Contact any committee member for details. (Could be wrong but did Jack Kennedy from Dingle get a start here some years ago and he’s still only 17!.)

A DATE FOR THE DIARY:  Abbeyfeale Drama Group are  rehearsing at present for their production  of a Michael J Ginnelly Play   ‘A  Wake in the West’  which will be begin its run at Fr. Casey’s on St. Valentine Night and continue through February on 16,18,19,21,23,25 and finishing up on Sunday, February 26.

BORD NA nOG REGISTRATION:  Fr Casey’s Bord na nOg are holding their 2017 Registration Night on Thursday, January 26 from 7-9pm.  €25 one child per family and €40 two or more children per family. Parents/Guardians please note that when registering children for the Under Six age group that they must be at least 4 years old and registration can only take place with a copy of their Birth Certificate. Copy of Birth Cert applies to all first time applicants. U8 to U16 registrations as per normal except for Girls born before 01 January 2007 who will now be moving up the ranks to Fr Casey’s Ladies Football – details to follow at a later stage. Due to new Legislation and Policies, Children will not be allowed to partake in Training or Playing of matches until Full Registration and Full Fee has been confirmed and that each Child is wearing a GAA approved Mouth Guard which can be purchased from all good Sports Shops.

EXPO: Bank of Ireland Expo on Friday, March 3 and Saturday, March 4.  Further details in weeks to come.

NEWS FROM THE ADULT EDUCATION CENTRE:  If you would like to socialise and meet new people why not join one of our groups who meet in the FURTHER EDUCATION CENTER (old tech) Mountmahon,  Abbeyfeale.If you are interested in writing, we have a group who meet every second Friday. We do short stories, poetry etc. Perhaps you are interested in knitting, crochet, or embroidery, if so we have a lovely group who meet each Tuesday night from 7pm to 9pm. We have a volunteer tutor if you are a beginner and would like to learn the crafts.

If art and painting is your fancy we have a group who meet every two weeks on Tuesday mornings from 11pm to 1pm. This is a very relaxing exercise some of us call it our therapy class. We would love new members to join us. A New Level 5 Childcare Course is starting shortly as well. Contact 068 31198 for information on any of the above.

CAR BOOT SALE AND INDOOR MARKET:  West Limerick 102fm are pleased to announce a new Saturday Market and Carboot sale.  It will commence on Saturday, February 4 and will continue on the first Saturday of the every month.  Gates open 7.30am.  There are 50 spaces available both in the yard and the hall.

Traders welcome;   books , clothes,   dvds,  cds , jewelry , bric –brac , fresh garden produce.  Home made Breads Cakes, jams etc.   For more information contact Bernadette at West Limerick 102fm on 06966200.

SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES AT THE RAILWAY:  Social dance classes have resumed at the Railway Bar on Tuesdays, beginners class at 8,30pm and advanced from 9.30pm to 11pm. New people are always welcome.

“LAST ONE FOR THE ROAD” the final collection of short stories and essays by Raymond Fennelly is again available at Ann Lyons Shop in The Square, Abbeyfeale.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS:  The Christmas Lighting committee would like to thank the following people for helping with decorating the town this year.
The Strictly Come Dancing group for their generous donation. The Men’s shed and other volunteers for helping with putting up the lights and taking down the lights after Christmas. We want to thank all those who let us plug into their homes. Those who helped with the bag packing and the church gate collection. To the ladies who helped and gave their time freely decorating Santa’s Grotto. Thanks too, to the young students who made the Santa visits run so smoothly while helping with the parents and the children.  To Pat O’Donnell for wonderful music for Santa’s visit. To Maurice O’Connell and the members of the ACC for helping and giving their time freely also. To the fire brigade and Gardai for escorting Santa to town. To the members of our group, Denis Collins, Hilary Collins, Marie McElligott, Kevin Kennelly, Gerardine Mann, Jimmy Cahill and Esther McElligott- a special thank you. A sincere word of thanks to Hilary Collins who co-ordinated all events with a constant flow of information to everyone.  The group are already meeting to establish a new and exciting plan for 2017. New members and ideas are most welcome. We were fortunate with the number of people who helped with everything which shows the power of a community group together. We will be forming a plan of action shortly for 2017 and will be hoping to get as much help as possible to help to decorate our town and to make it as attractive as possible for all. Thanks again for all your support!

CONCERT:  Irish Trad band “Breaking Trad” play new music venue “Mike the Pies”, William St, Listowel on Thursday, February 2.  Doors 8:00pm. Adm. €15, Tickets contact 087 9255230. Breaking Trad feature Abbeyfeale accordionist Donal Murphy, Niall Murphy (fiddle) & Mike Galvin (guitar/vocals). The band kick-off their 2017 tour at the fabulous Listowel venue, a great night not to be missed!

LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:   Toastmasters will continue on the first and third Wednesday every month until May 2017. Next meeting Wednesday, February 1 at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West from 8-10pm.  Further information 087 7972855.

Toastmasters provide you with the tools to become a confident speaker in a safe caring environment where everyone is on the same path.  Great for anyone who finds it hard to stand up in public and get their opinion across.

BALLAUGH WRENBOYS:  The Ballaugh Wrenboys wish to thank sincerely all who supported them on last St. Stephens Day. The Wrenboys collected €1950.00 for Nano Nagle special school, Listowel, Abhaile respite, Listowel and Milford hospice, Limerick. Each received €650.00. We would like to express our sincere thanks to Billy Mangan coaches for the use of his bus on the day and also to the driver James Mahony. Finally, we would like to express our appreciation for the warm enthusiastic welcome in the houses we visited.   Go raibh mile maith agaibh go léir.

NEW YEARS DAY SWIM:  Kathleen and the Harnett family would like to thank all those who took part in the New Year’s Day swim and to everyone who helped in any way. The total raised came to €10,815.00.   €500 each will go to Ava Roche and Daniel McAuliffe going to Calcutta at Easter and €9,815 goes to the Dialysis unit of Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Looking forward to seeing you all again next year.

ABBEYFEALE WRITERS GROUP:  The Writers group have resumed classes again after the Christmas break. We would love some new people to join us. It is a lovely social occasion and we enjoy hearing each other’s short stories or poetry. No pressure. If you are interested in joining us, ring 06831198.

ABBEYFEALE’S SINGING CLUB:  West Limerick singing club monthly singing session take place on the first Friday of every month in the Ramble Inn Bar, Abbeyfeale.

ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP meet every Tuesday & Thursday morning from 11am to 12:30pm in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  Great opportunity to meet other parents for cup of tea and chat, where children play in a safe environment.  New parents and toddlers are always welcome.  If you have any queries please contact Mary in West Limerick Resources on 087 938 2883.

SAVE THE DATE:  Abbeyfeale’s first Mock Wedding will take place at the Railway Bar on Friday, March 10 next.  This is a fundraiser for Nicole Prendiville Doyle, who is travelling to Namsana, Uganda to volunteer for 5 weeks from June 20  with Nurture Africa.  Nurture Africa is an Irish NGO who organise short term overseas volunteer placements for 3rd level students and professionals. .  As part of the project, volunteers are required to raise €2,300 to cover the cost of their trip and make a substantial contribution to the work of Nurture Africa which exists to provide health care and educational services to orphans and vulnerable children in Uganda.  Nicole will be working on school, health and outreach projects and will work on a building project for a Ugandan community, she will be paying her own fare so all funds raised will go directly to Nurture Africa.  Tickets for the wedding are €10 each and includes entertainment, finger food and DJ Tiny. There will be a prize for the most appropriately dressed wedding guests, spot prizes and lots more.  Tickets available from Carina Prendiville, Mairead Daly and the Railway Bar.  More details in the coming weeks. Watch this space.

ST. MARY’S BOYS N.S. FUNDRAISER:  St. Mary’s Boys’ School are having a clothes collection during the month of January. Bags of unwanted clothes can be dropped into the school during school hours. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

‘COME AND SEE’;  A vocations event is being held in the Pallottine House, Thurles on February 17/18 next.  It is for men aged 18-40  thinking about the priesthood.  Contact Fr. Tony or Fr. Joe for further details.

RURAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (RES) / YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (YES): If you need support job seeking and feel that you are a little lost in deciding what you want to do, then you should contact the RES / YES which offers 1:1 support and career planning to individuals around education, training and employment opportunities.  To find out more you can contact Finn or Lynne at West Limerick Resources on 069 61316 or Adrienne & Dee on 069 62222.  Make sure that we are one of your New Year’s Resolutions!  Looking forward to hearing from you in 2017.

Keep up to date with us on Facebook: www.wlr.ie/facebook.  Phone us on 069 62222 or call in to see us on St. Mary’s Road, Newcastle West.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY COUNCIL:  Our next monthly meeting will be held in Leen’s Hotel on Thursday, February 9 at 7.30pm.  This will be our AGM.

BENNY THADE’S RAMBLING HOUSE: Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse.  Date to be confirmed for February.

LEADER FUNDING OPEN:  Contact West Limerick Resources if you are planning to look for funding. An information session on the above will be held in the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West, Co Limerick on Tuesday January 17 at 7.30pm and again in the Askeaton Community Centre on Thursday January 19 at 7.30pm.  For further information see: http://www.wlr.ie/rural-development-leader-programme-2014-20.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915,  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984 Console 061-306792

Fr. Anthony Mullins P.P.  068/31157     Fr Joe Foley CC:  Tel: 087 – 2618412.   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Mass Tuesday – Saturday at 10am except in the event of a funeral when Mass is 11am.  Mass on Saturday 11am.  Mass Intentions: Wednesday 10am Tom Enright Month Mind, Thursday 10am  John Dunne Anniversary  USA  Friday 10am  Freda, Mary, Joe, Margaret Fitzsimons and family members.  Saturday

7pm Eily & Johnny Lane, New Street.  Sunday 9.30am Denis McEnery, Dromtrasna Collins.       Daniel Sheehy, Nell Lenihan, Cragg. 12noon Michael O’Connell, Dromtrasna,  Patrick Broderick, Dromtrasna Collins & Family.

Novena prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass. Catholic Schools Week 2017 is from January 29, – February 4, 2017

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is marked from January 18-25 every year.

To see the daily readings you may log on to www.abbefelaeparish.ie and click on daily reading on the home page.  Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish for the church webcam.  You can now watch all services from home if you have access to a computer. You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

FREE HELPLINE:  Rehab Recovery offers a free helpline and intervention service for people suffering from eating disorders. Tel: 0800 088 66 86 Website: http://www.rehab-recovery.co.uk/

NEW TOASTMASTER CLUB IN LISTOWEL:  If you would like to gain self confidence, self esteem and improve your ability to speak in public then you should check out the newest public speaking club in North Kerry.  The next meeting will be held in the Listowel Arms Hotel on Thursday,  February 16 from 8 -10pm.  Admission €5 which covers cost of refreshments and rent of the room.  Further information from Gerard Mannix on 087 2193670.

LEARN SOCIAL DANCING:  Eileen McDonagh from Tournafulla has started a social dancing class at the Parish Hall in Newcastlewest on Monday nights from 8-10pm.  Everyone welcome.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE: Self-Care Day: Practical skills for stress management and emotional wellness, Saturday, January 28 from  9.45 to 4.00pm Contact Anna O’ Donoghue 0879447105. Ref. capacitar-Ireland.org

JIM LYONS’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  Held on the third Tuesday of the month in Knockaloucca.

SET DANCE CLASSES:  Set dancing classes in Ballyhahill Community Centre from 8.30-10.30pm.  Further information from Seamus 0851149796.

MONAGAE RAMBLING HOUSE:  The monthly rambling house in Monagae Community Centre takes place on the 2^nd Monday of the month.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE:   May 31 to June 7, 2017. Daytime flight to Mostar (40 mins from Medjugorje and return from Dubrovnik). Spiritual Director Fr. Sean Corkery. Cost €719.00 on a Half Board basis per person sharing including flights, airport transfers, taxes, and travel insurance. €200 deposit secures place. 15 places left on this pilgrimage. Contact Sean O’Shaughnessy 086 2959380.

SOCIAL DANCING CLASS:  Classes have commenced in Monagae Community Hall on Friday from 9 – 10.30pm.  All welcome.

TAKE A BREAK THIS SPRING:  Spring Week End Break Friday ,March 31 – Monday April 3, based in the beautiful Boyne Valley 3 Star Hotel with complimentary use of the leisure centre in Drogheda. Breakfast and dinner each day. Touring every day and after dinner dancing in our hotel to great toe tapping music. On Friday we will stop at the the Obama Plaza for refreshments and there will be comfort stops on the journey. In the evening we will have a four course dinner and then dancing. Saturday morning after breakfast we will board our bus for Co. Down,  Northern Ireland. Being based in Drogheda this is not a long journey we should arrive at our destination Bambridge Outlets Centre just under an hour, the outlets are giving us vouchers, you can use euro’s in some shops and others you need sterling currency. Also we will take in a view of the magnificent Mountains of Mourne. After dinner again in our hotel we will have a relaxing evenng entertaining ourselves ie. singing, yarns, story tell and mighty ‘craic’ – we have found this a most enjoyable part of our break and we get to know each other.  Sunday after Mass we have a surprise trip and again after dinner in the evening dancing to more great music.  €255 per person sharing  and an extra €40 for those wishing to book a single room.  The stated amount covers your hotel  accommodation dinner on arrival breakfast & dinner Saturday and Sunday breakfast Monday, music for dancing, bus and complimentary use of the leisure centre. Please contact Maureen Finnegan for more information and booking. 087 9845102. .

RETREAT FOR MEN: Theme:  The Beatitudes.  Takes place on Saturday, January 28 from 9.30 – 4.30pm finished with Mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish Hall and Church, Limerick.  The retreat Leader will be Rev. Joseph Hayes, S.J.  Retreat Cost:  €20.00 (includes lunch). For bookings email; [email protected]

STRESS LESS PARENTING PROGRAMME:  Hospital Family Resource Centre are delivering a 7 week parenting programme starting Thursday, February 9 from 7.30 p.m.—9.30 p.m. This parenting programme aims to increase parent’s confidence in parenting and help them to manage stress in their daily family life. The course is for all parents with the main focus on them as an individual, empowering them to recognise their own strengths and talents and deal better with stress both inside and outside the home. Course cost €20 per family.

ST JOHN’S: Thursday, January 26 Sean Keane In Concert. Friday, January 27King Lear
/Hamlet- A Modern Musical Interpretation. Each scene from the plays is turned into a song from the most important character.  A detailed programme contains the lyrics to every song.  Presented by Literature Through Music, Dublin.

HEALTH: Sam McCauley’s Chemists, in conjunction with Dr Mary McCaffrey (Consultant Obstetrician/Gynaecologist) and Dr Haroon (Consultant Rheumatologist) are inviting people to ‘A Discussion On Women’s Health And Wellbeing For All Ages’ at the Manor West Hotel on Thursday, January 26 at 7.15pm.

PLAY: Athea Drama Group comedy ‘Anyone Could Rob a Bank’, will be staged at the Con Colbert Memorial Hall on Feb 9/ 11/12/16/,18 & 19.  Starring our own Angeline O’Donnell.

LEARN FROM HOME:  With the Priory Institute you can study from the comfort of your own home at your own pace and build modules towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. Application deadline : February 28, 2017.   Call (01) 4048124. www.prioryinstitute.com

RAMBLING House at Seanchai, Listowel Thursday, January 26 at 9.15pm.

PIERSE FITZGIBBON SOLICITORS will be holding a seminar on Wednesday
January 25 at the Seanchai Centre, Listowel at 7.30pm.

DUCK RACE:  A race will take place at the bridge, Athea at 12pm on Sunday, January 29.

AGRI SEMINAR:  A Seminar is to be  held at the Listowel Arms Hotel on February 1 at 8pm.

LOCAL HISTORY NIGHT:  Rathkeale & District Historical Society begins its Spring series of talks this Friday night January 27 with three talks of Co. Limerick interest by local speakers.   This “local night’ is much looked forward to each year and a full house is assured. This is a short outline of the talks.

“The Irish Palatines – Their Lifestyle, Survival and Contribution from 1709”

The first speaker will be Ms Lorna Shier. At present Europe is overwhelmed with the influx of refugees from the Middle East and North Africa. Just over three hundred years ago another movement of refugees occurred within Europe when the Palatines drifted west to Ireland from western Germany.  Their coming, their settling and their moving on again will be recalled by Lorna in her talk entitled “The Palatines – Their Lifestyle, Survival and Contribution from 1709.”

Originally the Palatines were given just enough land to support one family but as families grew many had to move on again to secure their futures. Some went to east Limerick and some went to Kerry while others drifted further afield to Canada and the United States.  Many Palatine families still live in the Rathkeale area among them the Shiers, Teskeys, Switzers, Ruttles and Bovenizers.

Lorna is a member of the Irish Palatine Association and holds an M.A. degree in the “History of the Family” from the University of Limerick. Her final dissertation was on the theme of the Palatines and the audience can be assured of a scholarly and authoritative presentation.

“A Stroll ‘Round the Old Village of  Cappagh”

“A Stroll ‘Round the Old Village of Cappagh” is the title of the second talk and it will be presented by Mr. Jim O’Riordan of Cappagh.  A founding member of the society Jim is sure to bring the Cappagh of long ago back to life again for just one more night. In Jim’s gentle storytelling way he will hold his listeners spellbound when he talks of Cappagh Castle, Cappagh House and hangings at Cappagh Hill in the early 1800s. He will also speak of Lord Essex’s encampment in Cappagh Hill and the passage of Captain Going through Cappagh.

Jim is a native of Cappagh just a short distance from Rathkeale.  He is a passionate historian with an encyclopedic knowledge and love for his local area – his talk is one not to be missed.

“Children for Sale: Ireland 1950 – 1955”

The final speaker of the evening will be genealogist Mr. Gerard Greaney of Ardagh.  His talk is titled: “Children for Sale: Ireland 1950 – 1955.” For most of the twentieth century children born to unwed mothers were treated appallingly in Ireland. In a Church and often State led hypocrisy, illegitimate children were shunned and concealed from “normal society”. Many died at birth due to neglect while others languished in public and private institutions. Many more were exported, often for profit. They were sent abroad to strangers with little care or attention given to the suitability of these new parents. But after all what did it matter, they weren’t “normal children”. Gerard’s talk will chart the lives of some of these children and how they became part of Ireland’s Banished Babies.   Proceedings begin at 8.30pm in the Arts Centre located within the Rathkeale area offices of Limerick City and County Council. All are welcome and the Centre can be reached by lift and by stairs.