Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Adam’s talent continues to Shine
During his time as a student in Lanesboro Community College Adam Farrell was renowned for his brilliance as a student. His talents were not alone academic, but he was also a prolific musician where his multi musical talents were shared in the growth of the Attic House in Longford Town.
Adam is son of Pauline and the late Sean Farrell, Ballyleague, is a fourth-year student in Trinity College Dublin studying Business and French along with fellow Trinity students Peadar Kenny, Longford and Liam Junkermann, Dublin, entered their business plan and their company Entity into the prestigious Trinity Entrepreneur’s Society Dragon Den and came away with the top prize from the Trinity Business School.
As you can well imagine it would only be the best of the best that would come out on top in this hugely competitive and innovative test. The Dragon’s Den panel was led by the astute Sean Gallagher who was a very prominent investor on the very popular RTE’s Dragon’s Den and the panel included many leading business people.
Thirty-five business proposals were entered and the adjudicators whittled it down to the top eleven where the lads emerged as winners. Their winnings amounted to almost €21,000, but their winnings did not stop there as they will now enter Trinity Business programme, Launchbox, that incorporates legal, financial and marketing support. Allied to that they have also secured the business support of an advisory board that includes Brian Egan, CEO of Purple Deck, a very successful software company based in Longford.
Many congratulations to Adam and his business partners Peadar and Liam on their wonderful achievement and we wish them huge success in the future.
Thinking of Fr. Sergiy
The past few weeks have been very concerning for our priest Fr. Sergiy. Since Russia has started to invade Ukraine, it has brought a great worry to him. His parents live in the eastern side of the Ukraine close to the Russian border and the daily concern is really frightening. This is a very concerning and worrying time, we hope and pray that this war will come to an end soon and that his parents and their countrymen and women can get back to living normal and free lives. We sincerely wish that both his parents emerge safe and sound from this terror.
Death
On Wednesday last 2nd March at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, Co. Longford one of our most loved residents Kathleen Williams. Kathleen was more commonly known as Katie was predeceased 30 years ago by her late husband Richie. Born and reared in Cullentra before moving on to work in Dublin followed by a move to London. It was there that she met and married her Kerryman Richie. Just 40 years ago they built a house and relocated to her native Cullentra with their two daughters Geraldine and Margaret. Such was her personality along with her family she fitted into our community as if she was never away. Over 15 years ago she moved into town to live in Cnoc na Gaoithe. Katie was a very pleasant and warm-hearted lady who always greeted you with a very warm and welcoming smile. She was a very religious lady with a strong faith and wonderful family woman. Katie was a regular visitor to Knock and Lourdes. For a time, she worked in the Upper Deck restaurant when owned by Kathleen Kelly. She loved her game of bingo and all the local social gatherings where she could meet and chat with old friends. She was an avid reader and a great conversationalist. Her passing will leave a sad heart with those that had the pleasure to know her and her memory will always invoke a smile when we think of her such are the memories, she left us. Her remains reposed in Glennon’s Funeral Home on Friday last. The Mass of the Resurrection took place in St. Mary’s Church on Saturday and following Mass she was laid to rest alongside her husband Richie in Clonbonny.
To her daughters Geraldine and Margaret, grandchildren Laura, Aaron, Dylan, Jason and Jack, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Boro Celtic to Celebrate
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the historic treble winning team of ’97.
A suggestion was made that it would only be fitting to acknowledge and mark this wonderful achievement. This event would be a celebration of the Boro Celtic club, not just the ’97 team and would include all past players, mentors and club officials.
Anyone interested in either the local re-union or a night away should contact Michael 086 3612152 or Steve 087 7847745. The decision is yours so make it known to either of the lads
ATM Update
Having contacted the company in charge of the ATM I was told that the company dealing with it had just sold to another company. The man I spoke to told me that the ATM had just come back online earlier that day Monday/Tuesday and that he would instruct that the machine be filled. However, this has not come to pass and I think another call is due this week to find out what is going on. It is a terrible state of affairs for all of the people in our community that depends on this machine.
Rathcline 50/50
The Rathcline 50/50 draw took place on Tuesday night 28th February in Clarke’s bar. The winner of this week’s 50/50 draw was Cian O’Brien, Corner House, who won €326. The 50/50 pool continues to rise and the winners are receiving substantial amounts. It is the aim of the club to continue to increase sales to the point that the jackpot prize every week will be in the region of €500. This can only happen with your support and encouragement to other to join in and play. The draw on Monday night 7th March in is taking place in Adie’s Bar. The club would like to welcome the new players to the weekly draw and thank everyone for their continued support and would encourage everyone to become involved in the weekly draw.
If you prefer you can play the 50/50 for a year pink ticket for €100 or for 6 months on the green ticket. These options are also available on the Rathcline club app.
GROW
Grow is a Community Mental Health Movement which meets every Monday at 11am in the Community Mental Health Centre, Dublin Rd., Longford. If you are feeling lonely, isolated or suffering from stress, please feel free to attend. Contact Assumpta for information by phoning her on 086 8114135.
Stolen Caravan
During Tuesday night last 1st March David Harrison who had his caravan parked in a farmyard outside Ballyleague on the Roscommon Road had it stolen. Since buying the caravan it has brought great joy to David and his three young daughters and it is very important that it is recovered. As you can see from the attachment it was a fine caravan with very distinctive marking. The last sighting of the caravan was on the motorway at Athlone. David is offering a reward to anyone with information that leads to the recovery of the caravan.
See attachment
Abbey Hotel Recruits
I was speaking with local lady Geraldine Greally (nee Murray) during the week about all the local news and happenings on her home patch. During the chat she told me that they, The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, were in the process of a major recruiting drive. Our community always had a representation on the staff there and she asked if I could put it in the notes that employment was available on our doorstep.
They are looking to fill the following positions Duty Manager, Reception Staff, Chefs – all grades, Porters – Front of the House, Accommodation Assistants, Kitchen Assistants, Kitchen Porter, Bar Staff, Food & Beverage Staff and Leisure Centre attendant. If you feel any of these positions matches your experience or your interest you should direct your enquiries and CV’s to hr@abbeyhotel.ie
Blow Ins – The Book
A new supply of From here to There – Blow Ins a book by, now local man, Andrew Knowles is becoming a very popular book is now back in stock in O’Brien’s. This very popular book continues to sell very fast and it is a very enjoyable read. For just €10 this is a must read.
ICA
The local ICA ladies group meet on the second Wednesday of each month in St. Mary’s Hall at 8pm. This is a friendly and welcoming group who like to involve themselves in all things of interest to women from fitness, crafts, creative writing, flower arranging and wellbeing.
the group would like to welcome you to their group on this Wednesday 9th March at 8pm where there will be a guest speaker and the evening will finish off with a cup of tea.
Mini Marathon
Yes! Following a two-year absence, the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon will take place in Dublin on Sunday 5th June. As was the norm pre lockdown Pam Farrell is running a bus from Lanesboro to Dublin for the race. To book a seat or to get more information phone Pam on 087 4146987 after 6pm.
Support for Trócaire
Every year during lent there is an appeal by Trócaire for supporting developments by their volunteers in a particular country in their time of need. This year Trócaire is supporting the people of Zimbabwe that is been devastated by conflict, Covid and injustice.
If you have not already picked up your Lenten Trócaire Box you can do so by dropping into St. Mary’s Church when you are passing. The Trócaire boxes are available in the church porch and your support will be greatly appreciated. Your support no matter how small will be of huge benefit to the volunteers in their efforts to make life just a bit better for the people.
Lough Ree Driving School
We would like to wish Jed, the very best of luck with his new Driving School business that is about to commence. Jed Mc Donnell a resident of Rathcline for a good number of years is an experienced driving instructor. He is now taking bookings for his driving lessons. To book your lesson phone Jed at 086 8031133
Longford Learning Support
Learning Support Group will commence in Longford to assist primary and post-primary students who are experiencing learning difficulties.
Experienced Primary/Post-primary qualified tutors with Learning Support/ Dyslexia qualifications. Friendly, welcoming learning environment. For more details, please contact Nuala at 089 214 6666.
St. John’s Lenten Services
The Lent Service for St. John’s Lanesboro and St. Coman’s Roscommon are as follows
Ash Wednesday Service this Wednesday 2nd March, 8pm in Roscommon
Morning Service Sunday 6th March at 11.30am in Roscommon
Lent Service Tuesday 8th March, 8pm in Lanesborough
Morning Service Sunday 13th March at 11.30am in Lanesborough
Service of Holy Communion Sunday 20th March at 11.30am in Roscommon
Lent Service Tuesday 22nd March at 8pm in Roscommon
Service of Holy Communion on Mothering Sunday, Sunday 27th March at 11.30am in Lanesborough
Lent Service Wednesday 30th March at 8pm in Lanesborough
Convert your old VHS Tapes
Like many of us there are a multitude of old VHS tapes hanging around our houses and we do not know what to do with them. Declan Gilmore has come up with the solution. He will convert your old VHS tapes to DVD, USB or memory stick. Declan has the facility to convert and now he is offering a local opportunity to get your old VHS tapes converted.
Call Declan at 086 8342935
Pioneer Association
For anyone interested in becoming a member in the Pioneer Association can do so by contacting the local contact in your parish. In the parish of Rathcline you should contact Breda Moran or Anne Carroll. A new pioneer newsletter of at least five issues a year will replace the weekly magazine and will be posted to directly to all contributors. It will cost just €20 for your yearly subscription. Please give your name, address and your subscription to Anne Carroll.
Addictive behaviour has increased during the Covid pandemic; the Pioneer Association can be of support and refuge to those that are suffering.
The Pioneer Association website is www.pioneer.ie or join them on Facebook Pioneers Total Abstinence Association. Why not go in and have a look and find out a bit more about the Pioneer Association.
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to Covid-19. Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week from 8am until 8pm. Text TALK to 50808 to begin.
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of alcoholics are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre building at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral on St. Mel’s Road, any Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Information Meeting
All workers past and present are invited to attend on Tuesday March 15th at 7pm for information on how to maximize your income through work and social welfare entitlements, pensions reliefs and much more. information will also been given out about a new training programme in the area of small engine repairs starting soon in the area.
You do not have to be a Bord na mona worker as these events are open all members of the public on both days.
Ballyboro FC
Another busy weekend for the club with seven teams in action ranging in age from under 9s to adult.
Pride of place has to go to the under 16s as they recorded a great win over table toppers Mostrim Albion in a seven-goal thriller. The Ballyboro boys were in red hot form early on as they raced into a three-goal lead courtesy of Eoin Cox (2) and a screamer from halfway by Anthony Cox. An own goal just before halftime gave hope to Mostrim, but Gabriel Klava’s second half goal was to prove decisive, as Mostrim added two late goals. However, the home defence held firm as Ballyboro went on to record a well merited win. Team: Paulius Buliosa, Aidan Kelly, Cormac O’Dowd, Jack Casey, Luke Johnston, Euan Cullen, Anthony Cox, Kevin Donlon, David Cox, Luke Cullen, Eoin Cox. Subs: Gabriel Klava, James Mimnagh, Nathan McCloat.
It was also goals galore when the under 13s shared 10 with Stonepark. A last gasp injury time goal deprived the Ballyboro lads of victory but in the end a draw was a fair result. Panel: John Farrell, Sean O’Dowd, Emre Kaya, Leon Malkowski, Ciaran McGloin, Eoghan Mullooly, Dan Casey, Sean Collins, Harry Brogan, Rian Hogan (2), Oisin Dillon (2), Eoin Beattie, Evan Rooney (1), Liam Dolan.
The under 11s under acting manager Ann McGloin were in fine fettle in their encounter with Abbey Rovers, displaying good teamwork and some subtle skills. Panel: Patrick McDonagh, Darragh McGloin, Adam Greally, Luke O’Halloran, Jack Donoghue, Rian Morrissey, Conor Kilcoyne, Darragh Shanley, Tom Hession, Ethan Donnellan, Eanna Kenny, Maitiú Hanley, Donncha Farrell, Eoin Collins.
The under 12’s contest with Killoe Celtic was a cracking game of football between two evenly matched teams Killoe just edged it by a 2-1 margin but both teams gave impressive displays. Oisin Dillon netted for Ballyboro. Team: Stephen Farrell, Cathal Hanly, Hayden Smyth, Jack Cassidy, Darragh Donlon, Tim Kenny, Shane Farrell, Alfie Brehon, Oisin Dillon. Sub: Kyle Rice, Aleysha Kaya.
On a beautiful morning for football the under 9s played Abbey Rovers in two games. Plenty of goals and no little skill were on display. Ben Cassidy, Tadhg Shea, Caden Donlon, Joe Greally, Tom Skelly, Jay Hanly, Laoise Farrell, Ben Lackey, Sean Hogan, Senan McHale, Finn Fallon, Jay Flynn, Aidan Cox, Donal Cox, Shay Molloy ably represented Ballyboro.
The under 17s went down to Gallen United.
In the Combined Counties League Ballyboro and Longford Wanderers played out a hard fought 2-2 draw. Team and scorers: Dylan Donlon, Chris O’Loughlin, Greg Cassidy, Daniel Foley, Luke Lisle, Kevin Tansey, David Rooney, Stephen Walsh, Alan Kenny, Darragh Hussey (1), Jordan Donlon (1). Sub: Max Webb.
Tidy Towns
On Tuesday 22nd February the jackpot stood at €7,100 and if it was not won it will rise to €7,200 for the draw on 8th March. The winning numbers drawn on the 1st March were 7, 25, 26 and 28. The winner of the €50 prize was won by John Rice, Cloontuskert and the three €20 winners were Paul Lindsay, Johnny Malone, Cloontuskert and Dolores McCabe, Church View.
Lanesboro Library
Tel: 043 332129. Email: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Knitting & Crochet Group
Knitting & Crochet Group continues every Tuesday 2-4pm. Come along for a chat and a cuppa!
All welcome.
Art Classes for Adults
Art Classes with Stephanie Hanlon continue for another 3 weeks at Lanesboro Library. Classes will run on Tuesday evenings 6.15-7.30pm.
Cost €10 each week and bring you are asked to bring your own supplies. Booking is essential by contacting Stella on 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Poetry & Music Circle
Next meeting of the Poetry & Music circle takes place on Thursday 10th March 3-4.30pm.
Come along and join in with this very vibrant group. All welcome.
Beginners Coding Course
Beginners Coding with Siobhan starting soon at Lanesboro Library.
Course is open to children age 8+ and will run for 6 weeks. Class size limited so book early to avoid disappointment!
Contact Stella on 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie to book a place.
#ScratchCoding
Longford Memories Book
This wonderful book by Brian Farrell, ‘Longford Memories – Reflections in a Time of Pandemic’ features interviews with our very own John Casey, Mary McGushin, Mai Casey and Chris Kennelly. Books are available to purchase at the library for €5. Contact Stella for details at 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie.
Foreign Currency & Used Stamps
The library is still collecting unwanted foreign currency and old coins/notes in aid of Koins for Kids. The smallest donation can make a huge difference.
The library is also collect used stamps in aid of ISPCC. Thank you.
St. Mary’s Church
Eucharistic Adoration on Tuesdays in the church from 10.30am until 8pm. It is very important that there will be at least two people in the church for each hour of the Adoration.
Weekday Mass intentions can now to be booked for weekends as well as weekdays. The lifting of the Covid restrictions has returned the anniversary and family masses to be booked for any day from now on. People wishing to book masses can do so by contacting Fr Sergiy before or after mass during the week in the Sacristy.
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament has resumed on Friday evenings, starting this Friday evening and it will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Exposition will be followed Mass at 7pm. It is also an opportunity to avail of the opportunity for Confession.
Trócaire Box
If you have not already picked up your Lenten Trócaire Box you can do so by dropping into St. Mary’s Church when you are passing. The Trócaire boxes are available in the church porch and your support will be greatly appreciated. This year Trócaire is supporting the people of Zimbabwe
Parish contacts
Fr. Sergiy can be contacted at the presbytery or by phoning 3321166 or 0833892362. For added support and assistance, you can also contact Fr. Merlyn Kenny, Newtowncashel 0860603433 and Fr. Turlough Baxter, Killashee 0879972259 who as you know are assisting in our parish.
Shannon Gaels
Registration
As we now return to training and underage playing competitions beginning – CLUB REGISTRATION is now OPEN for 2022. All registration is completed online via https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.foireann.ie%2F&data=04%7C01%7C%7Cdf8ad6cb5bae4ff0c56c08d9efac1d52%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637804344767989671%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=3P547445ocTg0z%2B9OS%2BITJs2SKOZvPZpnpk3FWuGAIg%3D&reserved=0 (Return To Play | Membership | Games Management) system.
The club would like to welcome all recent and new residents to the parish of Rathcline and we would like to invite you and your family to be part of our club. The club involves itself in underage games for the youngsters of the parish and integrates new people to our parish into the community and we would love to have you as part of our GAA family.
Contact Mark @ Secretarybng.shannongaels.longford@gaa.ie if you have any queries about the Shannon Gaels Minor club or the registration process via Foireann.
Parents can also drop into me in the shop for information on registration.
Cúl Camp
The date of the Longford GAA Cúl Camp in Clonbonny so that parents can organise holidays and not have the disappointment of their kids missing the camp. The camp will take place from Monday 11th July.