5/9/13

Dear Parents,

Last night, Vice-Principal Anne- Marie Barry and I attended the official launch of The Nathan Kirwan Trust Fund. Although I referred to Nathan in yesterday’s note I feel compelled to write in more detail this morning. Last night was a powerful and moving testament to the strength and determination of Nathan’s family, friends, neighbours and colleagues who are striving to do their best for Nathan in the most extreme and difficult circumstances.

Nathan attended Shanbally NS when his family relocated from Dublin, completing 6th class here. The moving photographic presentation last night captured the essence of Nathan’s spirit- a graduate of Marine Engineering, sailor, diver and boat builder who was due to begin his career as an engineer on board a cruise ship sailing around the world this month. As we approach All-Ireland Final Day, many of us are consumed by the search for match tickets etc. Last night was a sobering reminder of the need to value and appreciate all that’s good in our own lives.

Following are details of the many fundraising events being organised.

Date

Event

Venue

Saturday 14th September

Golf Classic and BBQ

Raffeen Creek GC

Sunday 15th September

Ladies Mini Marathon

Cork City

Saturday 21st September

Head Shave

Old Oak Bar

Sunday 22nd September

Coffee Morning

Home of T&C Crosbie

Friday 27th September

Bushtucker Trial

Fernhill GC

Saturday 28th September

UCC SC Regatta

Crosshaven

Saturday 5th October

Shave or Dye

Carrigaline GAA

October

October Leagues

RCYC

Thursday 17th October

Folk Music Concert

Carrigaline Court

Saturday 26th October

Cycle Wexford to Cork

Saturday 16th November

Take Me Out

O’Reilly’s Bar

Saturday 22nd February

Gala Ball

Rochestown Park Hotel

I urge you all to support our Rebel Red/White Day tomorrow. Every euro collected will go to The Nathan Kirwan Trust Fund. Some parents might like to register for the 4 mile Ladies Mini-Marathon alongside those members of our staff who are taking part. (Simply register with www.eveningecho.ie, then send your name and address to minimarathon4nathan@gmail.com where they will post out a sponsorship card). I do realise that in the current economic climate families are finding it difficult to meet the many financial demands. Therefore any help would be greatly appreciated.

On another fundraising note, I am meeting our Parents Association on Thursday next to plan Shanbally NS’s + Parents Association’s calendar of events for the year (we are planning to hold the traditional Shanbally NS charity walk in aid of the CUH Children’s Ward).

Shamrocks GAA Club have asked me to remind you that the Hurling Jamboree (Camp Ciarán Follow-Up) takes place this Saturday September 7th in the pitch from 11am to 1pm. Please bring hurley & helmet. Also the Shamrocks Academy starts September 28th.

Brochures detailing the annual Shamrock’s Hurling & Football Multi-sport Camp which takes place on September 14th/15th will be sent home today.

In the event of anyone having access to spare Match tickets we are currently trying to get tickets for our teachers who voluntarily train & coach GAA teams in the school. Best wishes and safe travel to all who are going. Corcaigh Abú.

Finally, many thanks for the good wishes expressed following the birth of my daughter, Emily, last week.

David Nolan