Editors letter

Hello and Welcome
to the December issue of EM.

Despite what some might believe, the essence of Christmas is still there. In recent days I have come across colleagues organising the Christmas Shoe Box appeal or draws and events to help the less well off at this season. In the community at large we also see increasing publicity of charity events taking place ranging from craft fairs by young children in schools to larger appeals and functions. While we might all moan that it's only one day in the year, it does tend to put increasing pressure on poorer families, particularly those with children who are constantly bombarded with advertisements showcasing the latest and most expensive toys and games.

However, it is wonderful to see the traditional things like carol singers, street entertainers and even Santa hanging in there amidst the march of time!

Christmas is also a time when, whether we had planned to or not, we do think of family and friends throughout the world. I've no doubt most of you who have close friends and family in far flung places make a call to them on either Christmas Eve or Christmas morning. There is just something about this time that brings us all back to childhood and memories of years past. With that of course comes a certain sadness as we recall those near and dear to us who are no longer with us.

However, we can be cheered by the fact that the real spirit of Christmas is alive and well and despite all the stress, shopping and cooking, there are many people out there doing amazing things to bring a little cheer to the lives of those who otherwise, would not have known the joy of a good deed.

Can I wish you all a very peaceful and safe Christmas and good health to you and yours for the New Year.

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor,
I have been involved with the ESB Hurling and Football Inter-District competitions from their inception in 1958 until my retirement in 1990, so it was with great anticipation that I went along to Pairc Ui Chiarain, Athlone on September 29th to see the ESB, GAA All-Ireland Football 7s of 2007.

The format of the competitions has been changed to reflect the many developments in our organisation over the years, but the spirit, skills, enthusiasm and camaraderie of all the competing teams are still there.

Congratulations to all the players and especially to the winners, who were Cavan ESB Networks in the mens' competition and ESBI in the ladies.

The presentation dinner in the Shamrock Lodge, Athlone, was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, as was the craic afterwards. The trophies were presented by Joe Dooley of the Offaly Senior Hurling Team, so it is appropriate to wish Joe and his team success in 2008.

Organisation of the day was a credit to the committee, comprising Colm Grogan, ably assisted by John O'Riordan, Hugh Connaughton, Christy Goulding, Tony Heavin and Pat Maleady.

I believe preparations are in hand already for the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the ESB GAA Club in September 2008 so here's looking forward to a great occasion.

Yours truly,
Sean Coughlan
Ballinlough,
Cork.