GAA.

Mixed fortunes for Shannonbridge in their first two Div One Football League games for 2009. After defeating Tullamore in the opener by 1-7 to 0-3, they had to give best to Ballycumber yesterday, at Ballycumber on a scoreline of 0-8 to 0-4.

Library Quiz.

Last Wednesday night's quiz in Killeens, raised €154.00 for the Community Library. Many thanks to all who contributed. This money goes towards the running costs, including insurance. The library is open every Thursday from 7 pm to 9 pm - why not come along and see the extensive array of books.

Late Cathal O'Leary, Clonascra.

Sad news last week of the death of Cathal O'Leary, Enfield and Clonascra, following a traffic accident. He was laid to rest in Clonmacnoise on Thursday following mass in Ballinahown. May he rest in peace.

Bidwatch Ireland Magazine focus on Offaly.

Birdwatch Ireland's magazine, Wings - Spring edition, carries an excellent article by Alex Copland, on watching birds in Offaly. The top five sites include the Shannon Callows. It lists the species of birds, describes the habitat and details points of access. In summer species to look for are Corncrake, Snipe, Sedge and Grasshopper Warblers, Whinchat and Stonechat. Lapwing, Redshank and Curlew all breed in the calows. On the river the Great Crested Grebe. In winter a whole different population of birds appear - Wigeon, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Whooper Swan, Pintail, Shoveller, Teal, Dunlin, Curlew and Black Tailed Godwit.
The other sites listed in the area are the Little Brosna, Turraun Nature Reserve, Lough Boora and Slieve Bloom.