It Says in The Bridge: March 2014

Three big birthdays are marked on the front page of the March Bridge, writes Brian Byrne. The most important one is without doubt the completion of Bridget Aspell's 104th year on the planet, but without the other one — the Bridge beginning its 44th year — we wouldn't be seeing Bridget on the cover. The third such event noted is the 44th year of the opening of St Mark's special school (KARE) in Newbridge, an organisation which has always had a special link with Kilcullen since it spent early years in the JFK Hall here.

On a sad note, the front page also marks the passing of Pastor Robert Dunlop, but the piece links through to some pages of recollections of his very full life in service to his community. In particular, an extended editorial outlines the many branches through which he affected not just Brannockstown and his Baptist flock, but the wider Kilcullen congregations and even nationally beyond.

St Patrick also gets a front-page mention, with the headlined reminder that the preparations for the Kilcullen Parade on the day are gaining momentum, pushed by the Kilcullen Scouts who are organising the event.

News items covered this month include many Pat Foley photographs from the CPC Class of 83 Reunion, an event which served to reflect how many of those ladies are still in this community. And from present day students there's a report and many pictures taken by Dolores Talt of the 'All Shook Up' musical, which by all accounts was a true rockin' affair. Going younger again, there are many smiling faces from the Art Competition in the Kilcullen Community Games, showing that talent for the future is coming along in abundance.

Looking a long way back at entertainment here, there's a 5-page section looking back at Brannockstown shows in the Capers days from 1972-1983. Compiled by Jacinta Sully, we also read in her Brannockstown Page that the Capers are to be revived by that village in May under a 'Memories of the Past' presentation to raise funds for the local summer flowers.

Main features include a poignant and illuminating piece about Robert Dunlop, 'Husband, Dad and Grandad', by his daughter Julie. Billy Redmond reflects on a war-torn world and how it contrasts with the global cameraderie at a recent international music event in Derry. Election 2014 matters are addressed by both Orla O'Neill and Martin Heydon TD, and the Kilcullen Community Childcare & Education Centre reports on progress with the building and outlines some staffing needs.

Sport is well covered as usual, particularly by the Kilcullen Badminton Club, the AFC and GAA clubs, and St Bridget's Pitch & Putt. In the Schools pages, the work by Scoil Bhride pupils towards winning their fourth Green Flag (for Travel) is detailed.

As always, much more, but I'll finish this by reminding everyone of next weekend's St Patrick's Day Parade, marching off at 12 noon. You have been told.