Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Sham Solitaire
Local visual artist Marian Balfe introduces her on-going project, Sham Solitaire, on this Friday 26th May in Lanesborough Library. This project was conceived of during lockdown where Marian created a deck of playing cards consisting of 54 painted illustrations pertaining to life in the midlands. Images include (but are not limited to); swimming cows, stolen tyres, hungry greyhounds and rabbit hutches. Between 2 – 4pm in Lanesborough Library, local Bridge players will activate this artwork by playing with the cards. All are welcome to come. This project has been kindly supported by Longford County Council and is part of the Bealtaine programme.
Exam Mass for Students at Knock Shrine
There will be an Exam Mass for all students preparing for exams and their families. Take some time out from your studies for a quiet moment to ask for God’s strength and guidance as you move through your exam period. Bring along your pencil case to have it blessed on Bank Holiday Monday June 5th at 7.30pm in Knock Basilica.
Summer Draw
Lanesboro Tidy Towns held their very first Summer Draw in St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Sunday last. The committee is deeply grateful to everyone for their wonderful support and making this draw a great success.
The winning ticket for the €1000 first prize was drawn out and St. John’s Church, Lanesboro, 2nd prize €100 voucher sponsored by Johnston’s pharmacy was won by Niall Keane, 3rd prize €100 voucher, sponsored by Fergus Hanley Ltd., was won by Patricia Boyce, Principal of Fermoyle N.S. 4th prize €100 voucher sponsored by Keane’s SuperValu was won by Garry Murtagh, Ballinamuck and 5th prize €100 voucher sponsored by Casserly’s Spar was won by Brigid Mullooly, Lehery.
5KM Walk/Run
Lanesborough Primary School is hosting a fundraising 5Km Walk/Run on Saturday 27th May to aid in the funding of their new Autism classroom. The run/walk will start at 11am and registration is from 10.30am. Registration can be made online by going onto www.lanesboroughprimaryschool.ie or on the morning. The registration fee is adults €15, children are free, students €10 and family €20. Your support will be greatly appreciated.
It was worth the wait
There was a time that the Shannon Gaels school team was winning Division 1 titles on a very regular basis. Many of the readers of this piece will no doubt have schoolboy medals that will transport them back to the glory days. Those were the good old days when both Lanesboro Boys NS and Fermoyle NS played under the banner of Shannon Gaels.
Then came the separation, it meant that schools to play as single entities and different numbers a side to cater for the numbers of teachers in the school and school numbers. School successes came with smaller numbers in different divisions. With dwindling number both schools were weakened and were no longer a Division 1 contender, that was until this year when the numbers allowed Division 1 entry and as we seen the results proved to be of a historic type.
On Thursday night last came a major breakthrough for Fermoyle School who played Drumlish NS in the Division 1 championship final in Pearse Park. This was a riveting game of football from start to finish between two very well matched teams and it was only a goal in the dying minutes by Alfie Murphy that put a bit of daylight between two great teams.
By winning they became the very first Fermoyle NS winners of Division 1 Schools Championship and created their very own piece history.
A sign of how tight the game was that it was a player from Drumlish NS, Leah Waters that received the Player of the Match’ accolade and we extend our congratulations to her on her performance.
As it happens this year is the 60th Anniversary of Shannon Gaels winning their first school’s championship title and it is fitting to celebrate that anniversary that Fermoyle shold make their own piece of history.
The historic panel was Hayden Smith, Adam Greally, Stephen Farrell, Darragh Donlon, David Kenny, Tim Kenny, Donncha Farrell, Alfie Murphy, Shane Farrell, Tom Hession, Ethan Donnellan, Michael Hogan, Darragh Shanley, Jack Cassidy, Josh Curran, Adrians Danikovs, Cían Shea, Elliott Johnston, Matthew Murphy, Joe Greally, Malachy Martin, Luke McDonnell, Sam Rooney, Tommy Donlon, Logan Rooney, Aaron Donlon, Sean Gethings, Niall Morgan and Dylan Horohoe.
This panel was excellently trained and managed by Sean McCormack, Ruairi Matthews and Tina Dowd.
We congratulate everybody on this historic victory.
Please help and support
The annual ‘Honda 50 Run’ will take place this year on Sunday 11th June starting at St. Mary’s Hall. This event is in support of the Longford Branch of MS.
The organisers are seeking donations to help sponsor the Run and/or a spot prize for the raffle on the day.
If you have a suitable donation you can leave into O’Brien’s for collection by a member of the organising committee.
Poetry Launch
All are welcome to attend the launch of ‘The Overlap of Things’ by Margaret Nohilly at Lanesboro Library on Friday evening next 26th May at 7pm. Margaret’s collection of poems will be introduced by Jack Harte.
On Saturday 27th May at 11am Mary Carleton Reynolds will introduce the poems at Longford Library.
Death
There was general sadness throughout the community when the news broke on Monday 15th May of the sudden death of Vincent Feely, Strokestown Road, Ballyleague. Vincent was predeceased by his parents Bridie and Jim and his sister-in-law Anne. A native of Elphin, Vincent came to live on the Strokestown Road many years ago. Following an accident Vincent had to give up his chosen trade as a mechanic where he had a great reputation hence his tremendous interest in cars and the workings of machinery. Vincent had a deep faith and made many pilgrimages to Lourdes and many trips each year to Knock Shrine. He had a tremendous interest in music and would never have to be asked twice to sing a song. He loved music particularly Country and Irish and loved to support all the local artists. Vincent loved to chat, time meant nothing to him and he was always happy to engage people. He was a warm and friendly man that will be sadly missed by all in our community. Vincent would pass our shop almost every day on his way for lunch and it was seldom that he did not stick his head in to say hello and have a chat. He was the kindest and most helpful of people and as a friend and neighbour you could find no better.
Vincent’s remains reposed at Brady’s Funeral Home, Elphin on Wednesday. His removal took place on Thursday morning 18th May to St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin for Funeral Mass. After Mass he was laid to rest in Caldra cemetery. To his brothers James and Noel, sister-in-law Stephanie, nephew Dean, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Kathryn Harrison and family, Ballyleague on the death on Monday 15th May of her mother in law Chrissie Harrison, Kilteevan. She was mother of the late Tom and she was in her 101st year. Chrissie was laid to rest following Mass of the Resurrection in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan in Kilteevan Cemetery.
Kayaking Camps for the Summer
As is the norm every year Junior Hannon will be organising the youngsters summer camp at Ballyleague. This is always a very popular camp and the youngsters always have a great time. The first camp will commence on Monday 26th June until Thursday 29th June. The camp caters for youngsters from 10 years to 17years. All gear will be supplied apart from the wetsuits. The cost of the camp is €70, with the second child from the same family €65. To book your place contact 087 2977769 and for further details
What a Day
It rained a heavy shower before 7am, it started raining again at 5.30 and we had a wet evening. Between the showers we had a warm but overcast day and what a day it was in the community. The town began filling with people from very early morning, all preparing for the Gael Force Great River Swim. The town was very busy with over 600 competitors taking part in the swims over distances of 800m, 3.1km and 5.7km. By all accounts the organisers Gael Force who were staging the swim for the first time outside their home base of Killary in County Mayo were very impressed with Lanesboro Ballyleague and what it had to offer them. The general comment from the swimmers was similar and they enjoyed their time in Lanesboro. The only complaints I heard was the same old chestnut of a great lack of accommodation for those wanting to come and make a weekend.
Allied to the swim, First Holy Communion for the young people of Lanesboro Primary School ensured that there was a great mixture of the young, their parents and not so young enjoying the day in town.
There is no doubt that events in our community really bring the town out in full bloom and it is something that we should without doubt encourage growth in. People’s comments are always positive and we should encourage growth in more events to give people the pleasure of Lanesboro Ballyleague and what we have to offer.
Rathcline 50/50
On Monday 15th May the Rathcline GAA 50/50 weekly draw took place in the Yacht Bar. This week was another week of successful selling and the winning pool was a wonderful sum of €695. The winning ticket was in the name of Geraldine Greene, Newtowncashel.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night at 7.30pm and your continued generous support is greatly appreciated.
Access for All boat
The Access for All boat is for everybody. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs but you don’t be to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. Guided fishing excursions can also be organised. Advanced booking is recommended. You can contact by email www.loughreeboattrips.com or phone 089 2625505 or 043 33 84175.
The summer sailings are 10am, 12 noon and 2.30pm.
Killashee Parish Cemetery Sunday
Cemetery Sunday masses will take place in the three parish cemeteries on Sunday 11th June beginning with Killashee at 10am, Clondra at 12 noon and Ballinakill at 3pm.
If you have families buried any of the three cemeteries please tend to your family plot in advance of the celebration mass of their lives.
Lough Ree AC
Training will continue at the Lanesboro Track on Tuesday’s starting at 6pm.
Local notes inclusion
Anybody that wants items included in the local notes is advised that they have their note with me on a Sunday night at the very latest. This is to ensure inclusion in the coming weeks notes.
Lough Ree Golfing Society
The Lough Ree Golfing Society held its outing to County Longford Golf Club on Friday last 19th May. It was a very enjoyable day warm with not much sunshine but with no rain either.
A good number of members turned out, the course was in excellent condition, the greens running fairly fast and this reflected in the scores with excellent scores being turned in. There was a bonus on the 7th hole a par 5 which was under repair with it shortened by about 100 mts,7 members had a par and Michael Brennan a birdie which might not have being achieved if the hole was the full length, any way as they say that’s golf !!!.
I have not seen 1st- 2nd – 3rd scores in the forties in a long time, congratulations to all. The next outing on June 23rd is to the home club of Shane Lowry at Esker Hills Golf Club where hopefully there will be a big turnout of members and new golfers to the club.
The results from Longford were: 1st A Cassidy with 44 pts. In second was J. Sheeran with 42pts and in third place was F. Costello with 40pts. Nearest the Pin was won by T. Patton and the longest Drive went to M. Treacy.
Weekly 25 Drive
The results of the 25 Drive held on Sunday night last in St. Mary’s Parish Hall are: 1st Anne & Kay. There was a three way tie for second with Barney & Eugene, Tom & Johnno and Aidan & Seamus. Last game winners were Jerry & Noel. The raffle winners were Eugene Kelly, Tom Rock, Kevin McDonagh, Pat Rock & Vincent Pierce. The game continues every Sunday night at 8.30pm sharp with light refreshments served.
Line Dancing
Line Dancing classes take place every Friday morning 11am at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town.
Line Dancing classes every Sunday at the Quad Centre Roscommon Town for beginners from 6pm to 7pm and Improvers from 7pm to 8pm
Dancing classes takes place in Kilbride, Four Mile House every Tuesday 7pm followed by:
Jive & Waltz classes 8 45pm.
Roscommon Group of Parishes
The final Service of May will take place in St. John’s Lanesboro on Sunday 28th May with Service of Holy Communion.
All Ireland Rosary Rally
The All Ireland Rosary Rally will take place in Knock on Saturday week 3rd June from 1pm.
There will be Holy Mass, the Holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a talk by Bishop Oliver Doeme in the Basilica at 1pm.
The main celebrant will be Archbishop Eamon Martin
Day with the Stars extended
Yes, the wonderful and hugely enjoyable Day with the Stars once again returns to Roscommon Racecourse this year only this year it comes with an extension of another day making it a Midsummers Weekend with the Stars. The show will take place on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th June and it promises to be one of the main attractions countrywide this year.
Saturday will see The Tumbling Paddies topping the bill that will also include Ruaile Buaile, Rhythm & Sticks, One for the Road and Paul Kelly Music.
Sunday will feature Derek Ryan Music, Philomena Begley, Jimmy Buckley, Mike Denver, Patrick Feeney, Robert Mizzell, Cliona Hagan, Claudia Buckley, Gerry Guthrie Music, David James Music, and Brendan Jermyn Music along with the award winning Shannonside/Northern Sound Orchestra
Tickets can be bought for either day and there are a limited number of weekend tickets available and they can be bought in O’Brien’s, phone 043 3321107 or email Joe at joeaobrien@outlook.com.
Ballyboro F.C.
The under 16 team recorded a terrific win over Abbey Rovers in the Plate final. This was a game of fluctuating fortunes which was laced with some superb football by both teams. Ballyboro went in front when Wesley Hughes cleverly lobbed the opposing goalkeeper. Abbey Rovers levelled matters late in the first half. With just 10 minutes left a clinical Nicolas Haluska finish looked to have secured victory for Ballyboro, but Abbey equalised with just seconds to go. It was nip and tuck in extra time and captain David Cox put Ballyboro in front with a tidy finish, only for Abbey Rovers to score once more in the final minute. It was on to a penalty shootout and here Jack Casey, Nicolas Haluska, Wesley Hughes, Ben Murphy, and David Cox all netted with precision from their spot kicks. Ballyboro keeper Euan Cullen made a tremendous save from one of the Abbey Rovers penalties and so the spoils went to the Ballyboro players whose commitment and never say die spirit was rewarded with a famous win over a spirited and sporting Abbey Rovers team. Ballyboro squad: Euan Cullen, Billy Murray, Jack Brogan, Jack Casey, Taros Kostar, Cody Phelan, Luke Johnston, David Cox, Nicolas Haluska, Ben Murphy, Wesley Hughes, Daniel Hogan, Eoin Connell, Shane Gavigan, Paulius Bulota, Nathan McCloat, Leon Malkowski, Thomas Gallagher, Christian O’Reilly, Jack Beattie, Anthony Cox, Aidan Kelly.
Congratulations to Alfie Murphy (captain), Oisin Dillon, and Tim Kenny who were all members of the Longford League under 13 team who defeated the Wicklow League in the SFAI National Trophy Final in Kilkenny last Sunday.
The club will be staging two Summer Camps in the coming months. The first one takes place from 24th to 28th July while the second one will be held from 14th to 18th August. Last year both Summer Camps were oversubscribed so early booking is advisable.
The under 13s are scheduled the play the winners of the Melview Lions, Kenagh United game in the Flaherty Cup Final on Monday next 29th.
Pictured are the Ballyboro U16 panel
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of those addicted to alcohol are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral. The meetings take place every Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Advance Farmers Notice
Farm Plastic Recycling will take place at the St. Faithleach’s GAA grounds on Friday 7th July from 9am until 1pm. The full list and prices are available online at www.farmplastics.ie
Tidy Town’s Lotto stands at €13,300
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns Lottery on Tuesday 23rd May stood at €13,400. This is a wonderful opportunity to win a large amount of money for just €2 each envelope or 3 envelopes for €5.
The numbers drawn on Tuesday 16th May for a jackpot of €13,300 were 18, 26, 27 and 30. There was no winner of the jackpot. The winner of the €50 prize Paddy Curran c/o Yacht bar, and the three €20 winners were Aoife and Ruairí Cullen, Josh, Emma and Zara Curran, Killinure and Jerry Ryan, Blenavoher.
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns committee would like to thank you for your continued generosity and this support is ensuring that Lanesboro continues to look beautiful.
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
The club is extremely grateful for your continued tremendous support.
ALONE
ALONE is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home.
Our work is for all older people and aims to improve physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. We have a National network of staff and volunteers who provide an integrated system of Support Coordination, Practical Supports, Befriending, a variety of Phone Services, Social Prescribing, Housing with Support and Assistive Technology.
We use individualised support plans, to address health, financial benefits and supports, social care, housing, transport and other arising needs using technology and through harnessing other services.
We work to empower the whole sector of community support for older people through our Community Impact Network that provides Training, IT support and resources to other organisations.
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.
Local Health Service
The health service is here for us all, from routine to urgent calls. HSELive is here 7 days a week to answer questions. Freephone 1800 700700.
Roscommon University Hospital Injury Unit is available from 8am to 8pm seven days, a week and the contact number is 09066 32212.
Emergency Department deals with serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies if you need urgent medical help. They are open 24 hours a day and can be contacted by phoning 999 or 112.
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
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.
St. Mary’s Church
Our New Bishop: Rev. Paul Connell will be consecrated as Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, in St. Mel’s Cathedral, on Sunday 18th June at 3pm.
We wish him every blessing in his new role as Bishop of the Diocese.
Continuing the Easter Story: A short reflection on the Gospel for the coming weekend masses will take place in the Prayer room after the 10am Mass, each Wednesday leading up to the Feast of Pentecost. All are welcome to join.
Alcohol Anon Meeting: Relatives and friends of those addicted to alcoholare welcome to attend this meeting in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral on any Tuesday evening at 7pm
Communion for Coeliacs: Gluten free hosts are available for all those who need them. Just make it known to the priest that you wish to receive a gluten free host at Holy Communion.
The Parish Hub: Maireád, the Parish Secretary is in her office on Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm. If you want to contact her by phone you can do so during the aforementioned working hours at 3321166. She will help you with any questions or booking related matters.
Speak with a Priest: if you wish to talk with any of the priests you can call into the sacristy after any Mass.
All Ireland Rosary Rally: The All Ireland Rosary Rally will take place in Knock on Saturday 3rd June from 1pm.
There will be Holy Mass, the Holy Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and a talk by Bishop Oliver Doeme in the Basilica at 1pm.
The main celebrant will be Archbishop Eamon Martin
Talk to the Samaritans: Are you struggling to cope with life? Do you think it would help to talk about your problem in confidence? It does not matter who you are, how you feel or what happened to you. If things are getting you down you can turn to the Samaritans for help. The Samaritans are available on Freephone 116123, 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
Alone Volunteers: Would you be willing to provide companionship or make calls to older people once a week? Alone is seeking volunteers in the area. Full training and support will be provided. If you are interest you are asked to sign up at the following address https://alone.ie/volunteers.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@aloone.ie or phone 086 0145 829
Parish contacts
Fr. Merlyn Kenny, Newtowncashel 0860603433 and Fr. Turlough Baxter, Killashee 0879972259 who as you know are assisting in our parish.
Kilgefin Parish
There will be just 3 Masses in the parish for the duration of Fr. Dan’s holidays until 8th June.
Mass in Ballagh on Saturday at 8pm. Mass in Curraghroe on Sunday at 10am. Mass in Ballyleague on Sunday’s at 11am.
For all other enquiries and adjustments on Anniversary Masses please contact parish secretary, Vivienne Barry at kilgefinparish21@gmail.com
Parish Webcam: After deliberation within the Parish Finance committee and the Pastoral Council there is consideration given to the switching off of the Parish webcam in a few months’ time. The decision has been taken due to financial consideration into paying €1,332 annually. Your suggestions and possible solutions will be appreciated.
Revenue Rebate: A gentle reminder to people that has received a revenue form from the parish – please return the completed form to Fr. Dan. The parish has benefitted by almost €6000 per year from Revenue in recent years. People who donated over 250 per year to the parish have received a request to allow the parish to claim a rebate. However, the parish needs the permission of the donor to claim the rebate. Your support in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Ballagh Church: The altar society for Ballagh need people for the month of June if you could spare a few hours to clean the church please email Vivienne Barry on kilgefinparish21@gmail.com or phone 0862626639.
Exam Mass at Knock Shrine
There will be an Exam Mass for all students preparing for exams and their families. Take some time out from your studies for a quiet moment to ask for God’s strength and guidance as you move through your exam period. Bring along your pencil case to have it blessed on Bank Holiday Monday June 5th at 7.30pm in Knock Basilica.
Shannon Gaels
Many congratulations to the Fermoyle National School on their brilliant victory in the Division 1 schools Championship Final on Thursday last in Pearse Park. The beat a very gallant Drumlish NS in what was an enthralling game of a very high standard. We must offer a special word of congratulations to the panel and their management team of Sean McCormack, Ruairí Matthews and Tina Dowd for making this huge breakthrough with their fabulous victory.
Cúl Camp: The Cúl Camps will take place in Clonbonny this year from Monday 17th July to Friday 21st July. Presently this camp is sold out.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Moo Poo?
Where will the Moo Poo fundraiser takes place at St. Faithleachs GAA Club on 5th June? Tickets are for sale at www.faithleachgaa.ie at all local outlets or by contacting any club member. €1000!!! Cash prize. Great spot prizes on the day also. Be in it to win it!
Underage Training
Underage training takes place every Thursday evening at 18:30 at the pitch. Kids must be over 4 years of age on January 1st 2023. New members and all levels welcome.
Cúl Camps
Cúl Camps return to St. Faithleachs on Monday 3rd July. Book your place now to avoid disappointment.
Volunteers
As the new season is underway for our underage teams, the club is seeking volunteers to give a helping hand at trainings and managing teams. If you wish to help out you can contact Tanya O’Rourke or Katie Carberry.
Clubhouse
The Clubhouse will be open every Saturday night from 7pm. Why not come on in for a chat and a bit of craic. Thank you for your continued support.
Waste Metal Collection
The club are carrying out a waste metal collection over the next few weeks. If you wish to have anything collected just contact any club committee member. Any donations greatly appreciated.
Lotto
Lotto numbers and results 16/05/2023. Well done to our €40 winners Mary Tiernan, Noel Duffy and Paul Kenny. The numbers drawn out were 5, 6, 11 and 14. Next draw will take place on Tuesday next 30th May. Envelopes for sale at all local outlets, any committee member or simply log on to stfaithleachgaa.ie
Junior Men
Our junior men took on Kilmore last Friday night in Ballyleague in the Junior League. Final score Kilmore 2-10 Faithleachs 0-16. Well done lads
On the County Stage
Best of luck to Ciaráin Diarmuid and Cían and Roscommon take on Dublin in the All Ireland Senior Championship on Sunday in Croke Park
Condolences
We wish to extend our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of the late Mary Donlon, Moher. May Mary Rest in Peace.
U12 Girls
Well done to the girls who had a fantastic 10 points to 9 point victory over St. Croan’s on Sunday evening last. It was a great all round performance.