Former deputy praised at annual school mass

The annual Mercy Kilbeggan school mass was held last week at St James' Church and as well as a celebration of the school's achievements there was a chance to sad a fond farewell to former deputy principal Mr Maguire who retired in the summer.After 38 years service it was hard for both staff, pupils and for Michael Maguire himself to say goodbye. After he was presented with tickets to Alaska by the parent's council, the congregation heard tributes from principal Garrett Farrell and from student council members Tadgh O'Sullivan and Terese Keenan.Both noted his "memorable broadcasts" on the school intercom system and said that Mercy would not be the same without the "great teacher who gave great advice"."As a former student I want to say the greatest thank you for the way that you taught us and the way you made me laugh. To us you were a hero," said Terese."I remember once that you found our Junior Cert class making a racket outside your room and you roared at us 'who do you have now?' and we said 'you sir' but we made allowances for your age.""You always appeared to be a man who never sat down," said Tadgh O'Sullivan. "During the many years that you spent there you gave every task you undertook your all. We know that you are sad to leave the school and it won't be the same without you. But instead of being sad think about the countless lives that you touched during your time here.""I hardly recognise myself today with all the good things that people are saying about me," said Mr Maguire. "My 38 years here were so very good. 99 per cent of them were good. Today I think of Lisa, Stephen, Pat, Emmet and Rosaleen who passed away before their time during my time in the school."I see that the school is getting along very well without me already. You expanding at suich at rate that you'll soon be at my back door in Tyrrellspass soon. I would like to thank the Sisters of Mercy and in particular Sister Alphonsus and Sister Sacred Heart who is here today. During my time at the school I have taught journalists, doctors, nurses and plumbers but I have to say that the proudest moment I had was here in this church the day that Shane cranby was ordained. It was the first time that one of our students was ordained and even with two tickets in my back pocket for the 2005 Tyrone/Kerry final I wouldn't have been anywhere else."Over the years all the staff have been so good to me and I would like to thank them all but in particular I have to thank John O'Brien who has been here almost as long as I have."Yes I do miss school and can't help getting emotional but after the excellent year we had and the results that the Leaving Cert students got I went out on a high."Kilbeggan notesThank you Kilbeggan/Ballinagore Social Services Committee would like to thank all those who supported their table quiz held recently in The Bodhran in Ballinagore.HurlingCastletown Geoghegan U-12 hurling team were beaten by a couple of points in the County Premier final last month in Cusack Park Mullingar by Raharney. Kilbeggan were represented on the team by James Fox, Brendan McMahon, Morgan Mealiffe and Sean Maher. This team were defeated in last years final by a point and the year before 2007 won the final. With a little luck they could have won three in a row. Sean Maher finished the year as top scorer and the other three lads performed brilliantly in defense. Great credit to Pat Brien for his work and commitment to the youth in Kilbeggan Castletown and Ballinagore areas. We will hear much more of this team over the years.Kilbeggan Pitch and Putt ClubCompetition for all juniors on Saturday October 31 at 2pm.Our Lady's Children Hospital CrumlinMany thanks to everyone who supported our table quiz held in Larrgey's on Friday 16th October, a very enjoyable night was had by all. Thanks also to all those that sponsored prizes for the raffle held on the night. Proceeds of €1,037 is on it's way to Our Lady's Childrens Hospital Crumlin. Again many thanks.Race NightSt Michael's National School Castletown Geoghegan are holding a Race Night on Saturday November 21 in the Dark Inn Castletown Geoghegan. This venture is to raise much need funds for a new classroom and modernization of facilities in our school.We would be delighted if your Company/Business would sponsor a race on the night. The cost of same is €100. Alternatively you might be interested in placing an advertisement on the race programme. The cost of this is €50, the cost for a horse is €10. Any subscriptions you can make will be gratefully received. We thank you for your support in the past and wish you and your Company/Business continued success in the future.Young at Heart GroupThe Young at Heart active retirement group meet on Mondays from 3pm to 5pm in SWEETS meeting room. All are welcome, for further information contact SWEETS office on 057 9332030.BingoBingo continues every Tuesday night at 8 p.m. in St. James's Hall.SWEETS notesSafe Pass Training in Kilbeggan. Next Course Date: Saturday October 31.One-to-One Computer TrainingDo you need to update your Computer Skills? One-to-one tuition available. Please contact Lizzy at SWEETS Offices 057 9332030.First AidEmergency First Aid /Occupational First Aid (FETAC Level 5) Heartsaver and Defibillation Training Courses delivered on a regular basis, subject to demandKilbeggan and District NotesAnybody wishing to have a notice included in Kilbeggan and District Notes please drop it into the SWEETS Office, The Crescent, Kilbeggan or alternatively, Phone 057 9332030 or email info@sweets.ie. Notices received before 10.00am Friday will be included in the following week's notes.