Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Exciting Times about to Begin
During the week I was chatting with Stephen Dowd who gave an insight into the development of the Sensory Garden, the Incubation Pods and the Premier Lakelands Food Hub.
The Sensory Garden and the four Incubation Pods will both be situated just off Main Street behind Lanesbrew Coffee Shop formerly John Casey’s butchers. With the work due to commence in the coming weeks it is scheduled to open in April 2023. The plans for the sensory garden are fascinating and it will prove to be a very unique garden drawing visitors from far and wide.
There will also be four Incubation Pods onsite and already three of the pods are booked and the fourth will definitely be booked in the coming weeks. There is great excitement for this project as it is projected to bring badly needed jobs to the community. It is anticipated that up to 10 jobs will be created initially. The pods will be a feeder into the soon to be built Premier Lakelands Food Hubs.
eTenders in the coming weeks be sought for stage 1 of the new Premier Lakelands Food Hub on the Longford Road and this will further enhance the excitement of new business and life in the community. It will further create a greater number of jobs. Everything is now at an advanced stage for all this work and knowing Stephen’s zealous dedication to the projects so far, no stone has or will be left unturned in his quest to see all the projects through.
Drumshanbo in Co. Leitrim set out a number of years ago with a similar vision and it now has the biggest tourist attraction in Co. Leitrim. As it happens when the Food Hub opened in Drumshanbo Stephen was the first to take space there and he has the same vision for the Premier Lakelands Food Hub.
We wish Stephen the very best of good luck and we look forward to the start of very exciting times in Lanesboro/Ballyleague.
Mid Roscommon Vintage Club
Harvest Day in Fourmilehouse
On Sunday 14th August the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club held a harvest day on the farm of Ronald Grady, Doorty, Fourmilehouse. A plot of oats was kindly donated to the club by Ronald and J.J. Donlon, Rathcline, Co Longford harvested the crop with his reaper and binder machine. On a warm sultry day it was all hands on deck as the seventy-year-old machine spat out sheaves of golden corn like clock-work.
Upcoming Threshing Day
The corn is now stored safely until the big Threshing Day in September. It is the intention of the Vintage Club to have a threshing day of the corn at the Strokestown Agricultural and Industrial Show on 10th September in the grounds of Strokestown Park House. All vintage enthusiasts are invited to bring any old cars, tractors, machines or equipment they have and they will be displayed at the Mid Roscommon Vintage Club stand on show day. The threshing day should prove to be a novel event bringing back a piece of nostalgia to the older folk and an enlightening experience for the younger generation. So don’t forget to put Saturday 10th September in your diary for the Harvest Day threshing at Strokestown Show.
Garth Brook’s Tickets
Who does not want to go the biggest selling concerts of the year? The Rathcline club is giving you the opportunity to win those precious tickets by running a draw for 2 Premium Stand tickets to see the legendary Garth Brook’s in concert in Croke Park in September. There will be draws for 2 Premium Stand tickets for Friday 9th, Saturday 10th, Friday 16th and Saturday 17th September – a total of 8 tucks for four lucky winners.
Online tickets can be bought at the following link: https://member.clubspot.app/…/rathcl…/fundraiser/tickets There are two ticket options as follows: • Option 1: Buy 1x Ticket for €5 • Option 2: Buy 3x Tickets for €10
The draw for the tickets will take place on Saturday 3rd September in the Yacht Bar Lanesboro at 8pm. Results will be posted on all our online Social Media Platforms. For more information check out: http://www.rathcline.gaa.ie/garth-brooks-concerts-2
No Better Place to Live
Over the past couple of weeks the sun has been shining brightly, some say too brightly, over Lanesboro and Ballyleague. Traditionally on hot sunny summers days great numbers come to avail of the River Shannon and local walkways. This year the crowds that arrived to the area had to be seen to be believed. The river banks were full as were the footpaths and main thoroughfares with foot and vehicular traffic. There was a constant buzz in the area that has not been seen in a long time. Visitors flocked to our community and thoroughly enjoyed their stay with us. The music in the pubs throughout the weekends and the sessions in Clarke’s on a Monday and Wednesday night created the hum of excitement that seemed to last for the entire week. The feel good feelings of olden days had finally returned.
What was unusual for summertime in Lanesboro/Ballyleague was that the local Irish visitor far outnumbered the foreign tourists this year. The general comment from the vast majority was how beautiful both sides of the bridge were and how friendly and helpful the people of our community were. Their impressions were that this must be a beautiful place to live in as to them it was one of the most beautiful places they visited.
It was a joy to hear the comments of the visitors as the Tidy Towns on both sides of the bridge, the local Social Employment scheme, and the local street dwellers and business owners made a huge effort in creating a wonderful environment not only for ourselves to live in but also for all the visitors and boy did it pay off.
Everyone can take a bow for all the work they have done in making Lanesboro and Ballyleague a beautiful location and a wonderful place to visit.
Those that made the comments were very right; it really is a beautiful place to live in and a wonderful community.
Town Twinning Meeting date set
Create an excitement
The Lanesboro/Ballyleague Town Twinning team (LBTTT) is inviting you to their AGM in St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Tuesday week 6th September. The meeting has a scheduled start time of 8pm. This is an ideal opportunity to become part of this exciting group, to bring up your ideas for discussion at the meeting. New people, new and exciting ideas are required and the outgoing committee is asking you to become involved.
Lanesborough has already been twinned with Lanesborough in Massachusetts, USA and have had representatives here in Lanesboro.
It would be great to see a good number enthusing about this very exciting twinning team. It is a wonderful opportunity for the 20/30/40/50 generations to involve themselves in the workings and visiting/hosting our twin towns. We have very inventive and creative people living in our community and your attendance will be greatly appreciated.
Lough Ree 2000 Bridge Club
The president and members of this club deeply regret the passing of Mike Flynn, a very popular and highly regarded member. Mike has been a member of the club since its inception.
He was an example of how to conduct oneself in a competitive environment, his manner always civil and courteous.
He will be missed.
We offer our sympathy to Mike’s brother Seamus, his sister Liza, and their families and also to his nieces, nephews and wider circle of relations. May his soul rest in peace.
Kayaking
Adult Kayaking takes place every Tuesday evening from the old harbour, Ballyleague. The Kayaking will take place from 7pm to 9pm and the cost is €20. Booking is, essential as demand is great, at 0872977769
Young people kayaking every Saturday morning from 11am to 1pm and covers young people from 10 to 17 years. The cost of the 2 hours is €20. Booking is essential at 0872977769.
Thank You
The Irish Kidney Association recently held a Church Gate collection for the Longford branch of I.K.A. The amount realised was €406. Sincere thanks to everyone that contributed so generously.
Defibrillator knowledge saves lives
We all appreciate the expertise that those that are trained in the use of the defibrillator bring to critical situations. You too can avail of that expertise and become vital cogs in your community for anyone that may be in need of someone with the expertise on the use of the defibrillator.
The local defibrillator group is actively seeking new people in the Kilgefin, Ballyleague, Cashel, Killashee and Rathcline Lanesboro areas to become competent in the use of the Defibrillator. The group is also looking to retrain and refresh those that have already completed the course and need to brush up on its use.
If you are interested, please leave your name and phone number with Martina O’Brien personally in the shop or by phoning 086 3858934 or clynemartina53@gmail.com
Thank you to date
Over the time of the Covid restrictions the opportunity to raise funds for the replacement of batteries and pads as well as funding needed to replace and upgrade defibrillators could not take place.
Now an appeal for essential funding is being made and the group is appealing to your generosity to ensure all the upgrades and replacements can take place.
The importance of defibrillators in the general area cannot be overstated. The lives it can save and has done in recent weeks are well documented.
If you wish to contribute we ask that you donate by leaving money in an envelope marked with your name into Martina or Joe O’Brien at the Corner Shop.
New CD selling very well
On the road for over 30 years the very popular Frank Nelson has just released a new CD called ‘I’ll Put the Kettle On’. Surviving the music scene for over 30 years goes to show the great popularity and support Frank has gained over the years. He is prolific when it comes to releasing high quality CD’s.
This time he has really hit the high times with the quality and songs included. It is a must for anyone’s playlist wherever you choose to listen to it.
The CD is selling very well at the nominal cost of €15 and can be bought in O’Brien’s.
Lough Ree Golfing Society
The August outing to Ballinasloe Golf Club was a very pleasant experience with the rain staying away mostly and the course in lovely condition. The greens were very tricky some slow and some fast which meant that the scoring was not as good as in Mountbellew, with one exception Ronan Cullen on 42pts, everything must have run exactly where he wanted it to go. Tony Carleton had a very good 34pts with Tony Patton next on 31pts.No one managed to get on the green for the nearest the pin, which is the first time this has happened in our society. Martin McAlister won the longest drive, with Jackie Mc Donnell and Peter Day winning the front nine and back nine. The September outing is to Slieve Russell Golf Club on Friday 23rd September and it is hoped to see you all there.
Championship News
It proved to be a black Saturday when it came to results in the Senior Championship for both our local teams. The first game was St. Faithleach’s and Boyle in Ballyleague and this game really went down to the wire with Boyle scoring the last score to emerge one point winners.
Rathcline travelled to Drumlish for their game against Colmcille and were beaten on a scoreline 1-11 to 0-5.
Rathcline are back out in Cashel on Friday night next where they will play Clonguish at 8pm while St. Faithleach’s will play Western Gaels in Strokestown on Saturday week 3rd September at 6pm.
Boat Trips
Lough Ree Access for all boat is a boat built for you is offering three sailing trips a day 10am, 12 noon and 2.30pm. This is a great trip of fascination onto Lough Ree and an opportunity to take in the beauty of the lake and surrounding countryside. For information and booking call 089 2625505 or www.loughreeboattrips.com Early booking is advisable
Sunday night Card Game
The Sunday night card game continued on Sunday night last. The results from last Sunday night 21st August are 1st PJ & Bridie Glennon. There was a four way tie for 2nd. After a playoff for 2nd place Tom Rock & Tommy Fox emerged as winners. Last game was won by Mick & Frank. Raffle winners were Eugene Kelly, Barney Kenny, Joe Dolan & Kay. The game continues every Sunday night where the first cards are dealt at 8.30pm sharp. Light refreshments served.
Roscommon Group of Parishes
Upcoming Church Services
Sunday next 28th August – Service of Holy Communion will take place in St. John’s Lanesboro at 11.30am.
Soccer for Ladies
The ladies section of Ballyboro FC is seeking ladies to go along and join in the formation of a ladies soccer team. If you are aged 16 and upwards and interested in being a part of a historic team then you are invited to express your interest to Graham Taaffe 087 2636701
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
Volunteers needed
Ballyleague Bingo urgently needs more volunteers to join them in the Bingo/Hall Committee. If you are interested contact Patricia Manning for more details
Smart Recovery
SMART recovery is an evidence based addiction recovery support group where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour.
There is a meeting every Friday evening from 7pm to 8.30pm in Vita House, Roscommon. For information you should phone Conor 086 1702912 or info@smartrecovery.ie
50/50
Congratulations to Tara Cullen c/o Chris Cullen, Rathcline Road who was last week’s winner of the Rathcline 50/50. Shane won the top prize of a remarkable €609.
Living Well Programme
Living Well is a free online group programme delivered over six workshops (2.5 hrs x 6). It is delivered by trained leaders, most of whom are also living with a long-term health condition. You will develop self-management skills and confidence to live well with your health conditions. Monday, 5th, Tues 20th of September, 10.30am to 1pm, and Wed 26th Oct 10.30am to 1pm
To Book Your Place please contact Olga Maguire on 086 0142688 or email omaguire@southmayo.com
You can find more details about the programme on www.hse.ie/LivingWell
Tidy Towns Lottery
On Tuesday 16th August the jackpot for the Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery stood at €9,500 and as it was not won the jackpot rose to €9,600 for the draw on Tuesday 23rd August. The winning numbers drawn on the 16th August were. The winner of the €50 prize was Patricia McGann, Ballyleague and the three €20 winners were Eugene Kelly, Rathcline Road, Johnny Hanley, Corrigeen and Pam Farrell c/o XLNTEE
The funds raised from this weekly lottery are helping to provide the financial support to do lots of work around the town. Along with the multitude of planting on the approach roads many other projects enhancing the town can be done with your continuous support. Your continued support is enabling the town to go from strength to strength.
Ballyboro FC
Due to the dreadful weather conditions on Saturday last the Official Opening of the club development at Lanesboro Community College was postponed.
Another successful Summer Camp concluded on Friday last. Special guests on the day were FAI President Gerry McAnaney who was accompanied by the FAI’s newly appointed Director of Football Mark Canham. Both Gerry and Mark were warmly received by the Ballyboro and League officials present. They went down extremely well with all the young footballers, and they answered numerous questions with great patience and humour.
The Club Registration Day will take place shortly on a date to be confirmed.
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. You can call Assumpta for any further information on 086 8114135.
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 is 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.
Lanesboro Library
The opening hours of Lanesboro are: Monday 2pm-8pm, Tuesday 2pm-6pm, Wednesday 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm. The library will be closed all day on a Thursday. Friday 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm and Saturday 10am-1pm
Knitting & Crochet Group
Knitting & Crochet group will meet every Monday 2pm-4pm
Poetry & Music Circle
Poetry & Music circle will revert to meeting on 2nd & 4th Monday of each month 4.15pm – 5.30pm.
Photocopying, printing and scanning services are available at the library. Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Kilgefin Parish
Parish Priest: Fr Dan (089 2706060)
Adoration in Ballyleague Church every Friday morning 10.30am. – 11.30a.m. and every Friday night in Curraghroe Church 8.30p.m. – 9.30p.m.
Begin Again Retreat Day
The Begin Again Retreat Day (10.30 – 3.30 pm) for Parish Pastoral Council members and other Church / Parish Volunteers, will take place at Donamon Castle, Saturday 27th August. For more info see www.elphindiocese.ie/retreat All welcome.
Volunteers Wanted
Ballyleague Bingo and Hall committee need more volunteers to join them in the Bingo/Hall Committee. If you are interested you are asked to contact Patricia Manning for more details.
Ballyleague Church: We urgently need volunteers to take up the basket collection in Ballyleague Church at mass on Saturday and Sunday. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Fr. Dan.
Newsletter
Any articles for the newsletter must be in by Wednesday nights at the latest. Details to be emailed to Kilgefinparish21@gmail.com contact number 0862626639
St. Mary’s Church
Rosary Group meet in the church on Monday to Friday at 9.30am and on Saturday and Sunday at 3pm.
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.
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.
Parish contacts
Fr. Merlyn Kenny, Newtowncashel 0860603433 and Fr. Turlough Baxter, Killashee 0879972259 who as you know are assisting in our parish.
Shannon Gaels
Our U13 team travel to Leo Casey Park Ballymahon on this Wednesday 24th for their U13 Final against Wolfe Tone Óg at 7pm.
The county board fixtures shows on Thursday 25th our Under 15 team will play Longford Slashers in Mc Gann Park Kenagh in the U15 semi-final at 7.30pm.
Good Luck – We wish the Ladies club U14 girls the very best of luck in their final on Thursday night when they play Clonguish.
Rathcline GAA
See attachment for the Cathal Chapman’s weekly update of Rathcline GAA news, it is also available on Rathcline.com
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Senior Championship
Our Senior men were defeated by Boyle in their 2nd round of the 2022 Hudson Bay Senior Championship on Saturday evening in Ballyleague. Final score St. Faithleach’s 0-15 1-13 Boyle. We take on Western Gaels in 2 weeks time in Strokestown.
Junior Ladies
Our Adult Ladies Footballers played their Roscommon LGFA Junior Championship game away to Padraig Pearses on Sunday unfortunately on the receiving end of a defeat. Final score Padraig Pearses 2-07 St. Faithleach’s1-04. Hard luck ladies.
Underage Training
Continues every Thursday evening at 6:30pm at the pitch. All levels and new members welcome.
Volunteers
The minor club are looking for volunteers to help at the Underage trainings on Thursday evenings from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. If you would like to help please contact David Harrison or any club committee member.
Lotto
Jackpot €12000. No jackpot winner this week. Envelopes available at all local outlets. Thank you for your continued support. Annual Lotto subscriptions are now due for renewal before August 31st. New members welcome