Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Class Reunion
On Saturday 29th June a reunion of the Convent of Mercy class of 1974 will take place in Lanesboro to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their Leaving Cert class. The celebrations will commence with a Mass at 2pm in St Mary’s Church and this Mass will remember in particular three of their former classmates who have passed away since our last gathering celebrating the 40th reunion; Kathleen Connerton, Mary Dowd and Rose Tully.
Following mass, light refreshments will be served in the Yacht Bar, Lanesboro.
As plans are being put in place it would be great if those planning to attend would let Geraldine know immediately and also state whether you prefer tea and sandwiches or a salad buffet so that the catering can be arranged.
Geraldine would appreciate it if you could let her know by either phone call, WhatsApp or text replies to 0863803468 to confirm if you can make it and your food preference.
Hopefully as many of you as possible can make it on the 29th June to chat and reminisce.
Death
When a very popular and highly thought of man passes away within our community it creates a great sense of loss and such was the case when we learned of the death at Portiuncula University Hospital of Pat O’Connor, Tuam, Kilrooskey on Friday 31st May following a short illness. Patsy as he was most popularly known was predeceased by his wife Lucy following a tragic accident. Patsy worked with Roscommon County Council for many years and where he was a much respected member of their workforce. He was a farmer who farmed his land with great diligence. The traits of the man shone through always, he was a thorough gentleman, a wonderful help to anyone, had the soundest of advice and he was obliging to a fault all qualities that showed the very reason for the high esteem in which he was held. Patsy’s passing will leave a great emptiness not only with his family but with all of us that had the pleasure to have known him.
His remains reposed at his home in Kilrooskey on Sunday before being removed to St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh on Monday for Mass of the Resurrection. Interment took place afterwards in Kilgefin Cemetery. To his sons Stephen, Peter, Kevin, David and Patrick, his sisters Philomena and Mary, brother Peter relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Your Vote was very important
Friday last 7th June was a historic occasion for our parish with 4 locals seeking to win a place for the next 5 years serving as a Longford county councillor. The turnout at Lanesboro Primary School was indeed huge with almost 70% of those on the register turning out to vote. In reality that figure is much higher with the number of people on the voting register that are not taken off the register, on holidays or have passed away so we must be delighted by the huge turnout of locals voting in the main for our local representatives.
Our four candidates accumulated a total of 962 votes and these voes propelled them up the count chart.
As I write, there is a full recount being sought after the 4th count where there was just 1 vote separating two of our local candidates of Gerdie Farrell and Sean Mimnagh where Gerdie is just one behind Sean. Mark Casey at that time had reached the knowledge that he had secured enough votes to potentially see him re-elected for a further term of 5 years on the Longford County Council. Mandy Larkin was eliminated after round 2.
No further counting can take place until the recount/rechecking has been completed and no declarations of any election can be made until the result of the recount is determined.
The count for the European election and the Midlands North West constituency began on Sunday and as of yet there is no indication as to when the first count will be known. It is said in reports that Ciaran Mullooly polled very well and he is well in the running for a seat in the European Parliament. Political commentators say that it could take up to the weekend to get the 5 MEP’s elected.
Lanesboro ICA
The next monthly meeting of the local Lanesboro ICA guild will take place in The Hub, Lanesboro on this Wednesday 12th June at 8p.m. in the Parish Hub. The guild will be taking a break for July and August. The guild meetings are held on the 2ndWednesday of the month and will be restarting on Wednesday, 11th September. New members are always welcome.
Vandalism of posters continues
On Sunday morning those coming into town at the Tullyvrane crossroads were met with the vandalism of more posters. It is very strange as these posters were there and not touched for the past couple of weeks and when the election was over and counting taking place this stupid vandalism took place. It is truly disgusting and degrading behaviour and totally illegal. There is no glory in such vandalism and it only brings shame on those that did it and us as a community. I can only highlight this vandalism and apologise that such deeds were done to this candidate and a number of candidates over the course campaign in our community.
Tidy Towns Lottery
The weekly Tidy Towns lottery draw took place in O’Brien’s on Tuesday last 4th June for a jackpot of €15,000. The numbers drawn were 5, 10, 20, and 29. There was nobody lucky enough to have the four numbers drawn out and the jackpot of €15,000 remains for the Tuesday draw. The winner of the €50 prize was Kieran O’Dowd, Rathcline, and the three €20 prizes went to Geraldine Owens, Lismely, Strokestown, Peter Skelly, Rathcline and Lauren Moran c/o The Yacht Bar.
The draw will take place in O’Brien’s every Tuesday morning.
Lough Ree AC
After the success of the recent competition in Athlone, 24 of our junior athletes were entered for the Connacht Championships at Claremorris Co Mayo, last Saturday. To take part in this event is a great achievement; it was for most their first experience of a major competition. The club was delighted with everyone’s performance as there are large numbers competing in all U9 to U11 paired events and the individual U12/13 events. We are awaiting full results of the pairs and will report once received. On the day Andrew Nolan again put in a strong performance securing 1st in the Boys Shot and 1st in Boys Javelin. These results are very well deserved as Andrew puts in the training for these events. Surprise of the day was our bronze medal in the Girls U9 Pairs Turbo Javelin, congrats to Emily Dunning and Shannon Harrison. All three qualify for the All-Ireland in Tullamore. Other notable performances were Zoe Barrett in the U12 High Jump, just out of the medals, Patrick Casey’s performance in the High Jump and Shot Putt was also very credible. Tadhg Shea was just out of the medals in 60m missing out by just 0.65 of a second in an amazing close race.
Campa Spraoi 2024
Summer Camp as Gaeilge for children aged 4 – 11 years takes place in Gaelscoil de hÍde from 8th July – 12th July, 9.30 am – 2 pm. Various activities including Art, Music, Dance, Singing, Science, Sport as Gaeilge. For further details contact campaspraoiros@gmail.com or text 086 3827523.
Lanesboro Garda Station
Lanesboro Garda Station has just posted a notice telling of its opening times where the station will have a member of the force in attendance for the public. Lanesboro station will be open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 11am. The station will be open at those times unless the local Garda is dealing with a situation that requires their attendance.
Galway Races Beckons
Every year the Rathcline as a club celebrate at the legendary Galway Races by taking tables in the hospitality suite in the panoramic stand. This has always proven to be a fabulous day out with people travelling from abroad and throughout the country for what always transpires to be a wonderful occasion. We are sure that this celebration will once again be a complete sell out.
The ticket package includes Racecourse Admission, Champagne Reception, Four Course Gourmet Meal, Complimentary wine with the Meal, Afternoon Tea, Reserved Table for the Day, After Meal Entertainment with Rock and Pop from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s by the hugely popular Mickey & Duxy, Tote Betting Facilities, Complimentary Car Parking, Race Card and Racing Tipsters will be on hand to guide you through the card. There will also be a competition for the Best Dressed lady and Gent offering a wonderful incentive to make that special effort in your dress style. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a very special day at the Galway Races for just €150.
Bookings can be made with Stephen Rooney, 0863176301, Liam Connerton 086 8776405, Kevin Hanley 086 8908436 or Seadna Ryan 085 1595512. Get your booking in early as there is no doubt going to be a big demand.
Weekly Card Game
The weekly card game took place on Sunday night last and the results of the night seen a three way tie for first place between Pat & Ger Greene, Jack Bannon & Tom Skelly and Tom Nohilly & Pat Joe Fallon. The last game winners were Eugene Kelly & Barney Kenny. Raffle winners were Martin McDermott, Harry Skelly, Bridie Glennon and Liz Hughes. The game continues every Sunday night at 8.30pm in the Parish Hall where light refreshments are always served.
Day with the Stars
The annual country musical festival ‘Day with the Stars’ at Roscommon Racecourse on Sunday 23rd June will soon be upon us. The line-up this year is drawing up a huge interest and tickets are selling very fast. Those featuring will include some of Ireland major country artist namely Mike Denver, Derek Ryan, Jimmy Buckley, Michael English, Cliona Hagan, Brendan Shine, Robert Mizzell, Patrick Feeney, Claudia Buckley, David James, Olivia Douglas, and Brendan Jermyn.
There is nowhere else in the country that you can get such a wonderful line-up of top artists in the one place. If you enjoy country music then then there is no other place to be than at Roscommon Racecourse.
The gates will open at 12 noon and the show will commence at 2pm.
Tickets, costing €35 are available in O’Brien’s.
Children under 12 will be free once they are accompanied by an adult.
Cemetery Sunday
Cemetery Sunday in the parish of Killashee will take place on Sunday next 16th June and the many local people with family graves in Killashee, Clondra and Ballinakill are asked to tend to the grave in advance of the ceremonies of the day. The Blessing of the Graves will take place in Killashee graveyard at 10am, Clondra graveyard at 12 noon and Ballinakill cemetery at 3pm.
Musical Extravaganza
A musical evening and extravaganza with Roscommon Solstice Choir and special guest artist, the legendary Frankie McDonald will perform in St. Brigid’s Church Ardagh on Sunday next 16th June. The doors will open at 7.30 with the show commencing at 8pm. The proceeds of the night will go towards Parish Funds. There will be a raffle and lots of spot prizes to be won on the night. Tickets priced at €20 are available in O’Brien’s shop.
St. John’s Congregation
The following are the services and times for St Coman’s Roscommon & St John’s Lanesboro for the month of June. All Sunday Services are at 11.30am.
Sunday 16th June at St Coman’s, Roscommon: Sunday Holy Communion Service.
On Sunday 23rd at St John’s Lanesboro: Holy Communion Service
Sunday 30th at St John’s Lanesboro, Morning Prayer
Women’s Midsummer Retreat
Rest, Recover, Reconnect.
The retreat will be facilitated by Chartered Health Psychologist Marianne Fallon on Saturday 22nd June from 10am to 4pm at Strokestown Park.
The expectations of modern life are constant and demanding. Research shows women offer the most emotional support to others, repeatedly giving beyond our limits. When do we make time to rest, receive and recover?
Join the Women’s Midsummer Retreat in the beautiful grounds of Strokestown Park House and invest in a day of rest and recovery. Open yourself to a different way of being, through engaging all of your senses in the woodlands and gardens. Learn how to develop a relationship with natural allies and make connections between your inner and outer landscapes.
Immersion in nature can support you to slow down and emotionally regulate. Move from ‘ego’ to ‘eco’ and experience a deeper, more embodied way of moving in the world. Step into the brightest time of the year with a renewed sense of self and well-being.
This women’s retreat will be led by two experienced chartered psychologists. We are passionate about the benefits that nature can offer women in moving towards a more authentic and embodied sense of self.
The link for booking and further information is https://strokestownpark.ie/event/womens-midsummer-retreat-in-nature/
The registration fee for the retreat will be €79. Spaces are limited and early booking is advisable.
Paddle4Parkinsons
Having been recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s Frank Mullen has decided to Kayak the full length of the Shannon from the Co. Cavan village of Dowra, the uppermost navigable point of the River Shannon to where the Shannon reaches the sea at Tarbert, Co. Kerry.
Frank’s goal is to show that although Parkinson’s can limit choices, we can still achieve our personal goals.
If you would like to support Frank’s paddle and Parkinson’s Ireland you should visit www.paddle4parkinsons.ie Thank you in anticipation.
Women’s Mini Marathon
All the seats on the bus to the Ladies Mini marathon had now been booked. We wish all the ladies taking part the very best of luck for a very successful and enjoyable run.
Local Health Service
Local Heath Service is available at Roscommon University Hospital. The service will deal with urgent and routine health problems. The Freephone phone number to ring is 1800 700700.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@alone.ie or phone 086 0145 829.
Walking the Camino
Have you ever dreamed of walking the Camino? Join the MSC Missions as they walk the shaded lanes and valleys of the Camino Ingles walking from Ferrol to Santiago in Northern Spain from the 29th July – 5th August 2024. The temperature in this part of northern Spain in July is perfect for walking, like a balmy summer day in Ireland. For more details of this fundraising pilgrimage call Mary at 021 454 6691 or email mary.morrish@mscmissions.ie
Brothers of Charity
Are you interested in supporting someone with an intellectual disability, to be part of the community in which they live? If you are interested in volunteering in the Brothers of Charity Services in Roscommon please contact Edel Crehan on edel.crehan@bocsi.ie or 0874887314 for more details.
VAKS programme
Applications are now open for VAKS (Volunteer at Knock Shrine) programme. It is an opportunity for young people in TY, 5th and 6th year to go to Knock to volunteer for a weekend in either July or August. This is a great way to meet new friends, serve others, express your faith and have fun! For further information please contact Knock Youth Ministry on 094 9375321 or youthministry@knockshrine.ie
Lough Derg 2024 pilgrimage season re-opens
One Day Retreats have reopened for August & September. Three Day Pilgrimages will take place in June, July & August. For more information or bookings you are asked to contact 071 9861518, info@loughderg.org or website www.loughderg.org
Rathcline 50/50
On Monday 3rd June the Rathcline GAA 50/50 weekly draw took place in The Pier Inn, Lisnacusha. The winning envelope drawn out was in the name of Anne McNally, Ballyleague. The jackpot for the draw on Monday night was again over €600 with Anne being the proud recipient of a cheque for €649.
As always, the winning cheque can always be collected in O’Brien’s.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is greatly appreciated, and your support is highlighted by the large pools every week.
Line Dancing For All
They say that Line Dancing, stimulates the brain, reduces stress, reduces risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia, increases mental capacity, improves posture and balance, tones the body, strengthens bones and muscles, provides opportunity to socialize and meet people and its suitable and popular for all ages and all abilities.
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
Dance classes takes place in Kilbride, Four Mile House every Tuesday 7pm followed by:
Jive & Waltz classes 8 45pm.
Crochet for Children
Crochet classes for children is resuming in the Parish Hall on Friday evening from 3pm to 5 pm and Saturday from 10 30 am to 12 30 pm. Enquiries to Virginia on 086 2036542.
Learn to play Guitar
Have you ever thought of learning to play the guitar? Complete beginner guitar lessons are now available in the Lanesboro area. For booking and further details phone 087 7774203.
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.
Access for All boat
The Access for All boat is for everybody. The boat can cater for three large wheelchairs, but you don’t have to be a wheelchair user to avail of the excellent trips. Sailing times daily are for a 90 minute trip and will sail at 10.00am, 12.00pm and 2.30pm. 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.
Co. Longford Citizens Advice Centre
Co. Longford Citizens Information Service has recently been restructured and is currently under new management.
They continue to provide free, impartial, and confidential information, advice, and advocacy services to the public on social services, rights, and entitlements. The range of areas covered by the citizens information centre are extremely wide including social welfare rights and entitlements and other social issues such as employment, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights, all where people need access to information.
The way people access the services changed during Covid and now they currently deal with a large number of queries over the telephone, however, they continue to provide our drop-in times and welcome people to their face-to-face service five mornings a week from the Longford office. The services are provided by experienced trained Information Officers who are there to help you.
The centre is located on level 1 within Longford Shopping Centre and direction can be obtained at the reception desk from Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 5.00pm. The office closes for lunch from 1pm until 2pm.
The Employability Service
Is an Employment and Recruitment Service to assist people with a disability or health issue to pursue and maintain employment in the open labour market? If you are over 18, have a disability or health issue and would consider working part-time then you should contact Employment Services Roscommon support to help find you a job in your area. This is a confidential and free individualised service funded by the Department of Social Protection.
Are you managing mental health issues? There is the opportunity for Individual Placement and Support (IPS) that is funded by the HSE and offers a range of tailored personalised supports to people using mental health services who wish to work. For further information you should phone 090 66 28608 or call/text 087 3745307. They can also be contacted via email at info@rosemp.ie
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.
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 on-going 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. The number to ring is 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 Lanesboro
Priest contacts: If you have a need to contact any one of the priests you can do so by phoning Fr. Merlyn Kenny 086 0603433 or Fr. Turlough Baxter 087 9972259.
You can also contact parish secretary Maireád Rooney by calling into the presbytery from Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm.or she can be contacted on the phone at 3321166.
Adoration: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues on Tuesday’s after 10am Mass until 8pm in the church. People are welcome to join the Adoration group any time. Those who do a designated hour are requested to arrange a substitute in they happen to be able to attend at their designated time.
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Confession time in the Prayer Room takes place on the first Friday of each month from 6.30pm to 7pm.The next opportunity is on Friday 5th July.
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 interested, you are asked to sign up at the following address https://alone.ie/volunteers
Local Health Service: Local Heath Service is available at Roscommon University Hospital. The service will deal with urgent and routine health problems. The Freephone phone number to ring is 1800 700700.
For more information you are invited to contact Helena at Helena.madden@alone.ie or phone 086 0145 829.
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Annual Holiday: While Fr. Dan is on holidays for the month of May you should contact Vivienne Barry 089 9722625 or kilgefinparish21@gmail.com
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes: The Elphin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from Friday 30th August to Wednesday 4th September inclusive and includes the Assisted Pilgrim section. Those who travel as part of the Assisted Pilgrim section will stay in Accueil Notre Dame and be cared by the Elphin Diocesan Pilgrimage Care Team whilst in Lourdes. Application forms for the Assisted Pilgrim section and full details are available from Fr. Ray Milton, PP, Pilgrimage Director, St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon phone 09066 61115. The closing date for completed application forms is Monday 10th June. All other enquiries regarding the Pilgrimage and bookings must be directed to Joe Walsh Tours 0102410800 or info@joewalshtours.ie
Medjugorje Youth Festival: The Diocese of Elphin invites young adults in the diocese aged between 18 and 35 on pilgrimage to Medjugorje this summer for the Youth Festival from 31st July to 7th August led by Bishop Kevin. The cost per person sharing is €650. For more information and further details please go to the diocesan website www.elphindiocese.ie/madjugorje or contact the diocesan office 071-9150106 or youth@elphindiocese.ie
Morning Pilgrim Walk: Elphin’s Diocese’s Morning Pilgrim Walk from Castlerea to Knock will take place on Sunday 18th August. For more information contact www.elphindiocese.ie/walk2knock