Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Class Reunion
On Saturday week 29th June a reunion of the Convent of Mercy Leaving Cert class of 1974 will take place in Lanesboro to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their Leaving Cert. 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 their last gathering when they were celebrating the 40th reunion; Kathleen Connerton, Mary Dowd and Rose Tully. August
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.
Open Invitation
To celebrate one year of the Killian Homeplace Family History and Genealogy Centre in Fermoyle there is an open invitation on Friday next 21st June to the centre. Festivities will include music, step dancing, refreshments, and the RTÉ cameras will be filming for an upcoming edition of the Nationwide programme.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Philomena and T.J. Walsh and family Rathcline on the death of Philomena’s brother John Lennon of Solihull, Birmingham who passed away on Friday 7th June. John’s remains will repose in Feeney’s Funeral Home, Williamstown, Co. Galway on Friday next 21st June from 6 to 8pm. His Funeral Mass will take place in St. Teresa’s Church, Williamstown on Saturday at 12 noon.
Death
Kathleen Geoghegan, nee Compton, Aughamuck, Kilrooskey passed away at her home on Thursday 6th June, surrounded by her family and in the care of the Roscommon Hospice Care team brings a lifetime of goodness, friendliness and caring to an end. Kathleen was predeceased by her late husband Joe almost 15 years ago. She had the distinction of being recognised a real lady with warmth to lighten even the coldest of hearts and a tremendous generosity of spirit. As youngsters called to her home there was always a glass of orange and a biscuit with kind words of support and encouragement. She was a lady that always seen the
future for everyone in education and she always encouraged everybody to embrace the opportunities that education would allow. She was rightly proud of the achievements of her own family. Kathleen’s passing will be greatly felt by those close to her but also by everyone that knew her and the many young people – some now adults- that enjoyed the chats, great memories and kindness she created when they called or passed her house.
Her remains reposed at her residence on Saturday 8th June before her removal to St. Mary’s Church Ballagh. Following her Funeral Mass on Sunday Kathleen was laid to rest in Kilgefin Cemetery. We extend our deepest sympathy to her daughters Mary, Teresa, Joan, her sons Michael and Anthony, her sister Mary, relatives and many friends.
From Killinure to Brussels
The final report on 27th June 2021 brought to an end his 26 year stint with RTÉ and a lifetime of journalism. From the Longford Leader, Cavan Leader, Shannonside, Ear to the Ground on RTÉ 1 and the Midlands correspondent with RTÉ. Ciaran Mullooly had seen it all or so we thought. Since his retirement he has worked with Roscommon and Longford County Councils. The added string following his illustrious journalistic career came at 3.30 am on Friday morning last 14th June when the journey from Killinure in the parish of Rathcline to Brussels was complete when Ciaran, representing Independent Ireland, was elected from the European Election on Friday last 7th June as MEP representing the Midlands North West constituency
Ciaran, the youngest, was born and reared in the townsland of Killinure to the hard working farming family of Dan and Molloy Mullooly who always had a warm and friendly home especially for visitors as I can attest to when rambling up to his late brother Pat in our younger days.. This was a household that was fully conscious of the huge benefits of education and their family was reared with a mantra to be the best they could be in their lives achievements and the parents were not disappointed.
Looking at his career and you could call Ciaran a home bird having never strayed too far from the banks of the Shannon and his native parish. Now living for the past number of years in Ballyleague he will find it a big change to be so far away from home when he has to be in Brussels all the time during the sessions of the European Council.
This was a tremendous feat by Ciaran and this could not have happened without the loyal family support he got from his wife Angela, sons Bryan and Eoghan and his merry band of supporters who travelled far and wide to help achieve this fantastic result. His siblings of Rose, Eithne and Donal are basking in the glory of his achievement and it is a great pity that his parents, his late sister Nuala and his brother Pat did not live to join in the wonderful celebration of Ciaran’s success. I am sure they are all smiling down on him from heaven.
We wish Ciaran every success in Europe. He is an achiever and we are fully confident that he will continue to shine on the biggest European stage.
No Toilets open
For the past number of years Mike Greene voluntarily opened, closed and maintained the public toilets in the car park. Since Mike’s change of work schedule he has not been able to continue his great community service. Since then nobody has taken up the responsibility for opening and closing of the toilets which is very disappointing considering it is the only public facility in the car park for campervans playground, walkers, fishing and swimming area. With the weather getting better and more and more people coming to the Shannon it is very disappointing that the toilets are not opened. These days more and more people are commenting on the fact that the toilets are not open.
It is incumbent on Longford County Council appoint somebody immediately to ensure that the toilets are opened, closed and maintained for use all through the summer and indeed all year round.
Match Day Excitement
Last weekend was just like days of old when the supporters of Roscommon travelled in big numbers through the town as they went to Longford for their game against Cavan on Saturday. Sunday was the same, only greater, when huge numbers of Dublin and Mayo supporters brought a great air of excitement to the town both going and coming. The sense of excitement was brilliant with a lot of supporters made Lanesboro a stopping off point bringing lots of extra visitors and spenders to the town.
Recent book launch
The County Roscommon Historical and Archaeological Society have recently launched their latest edition of their excellent Journal. The book has many excellent articles with photographs to bring back memories to many people. Involved in the Society is local man now residing in Trien, Castlerea, Edmund Hester son of the late John and Mary Hester Knock and brother of Eugene, Knock. There are articles with people that whose writings we would be very familiar with namely Henry Owens, Mike Lennon, Tommy Murray and Albert Siggins to name a few. The Journal is for sale in O’Brien’s costing €20 and it is very well worth the read.
Lanesboro Gun Club
Memberships are now due for the forthcoming 2024/2025 season. Can you please contact a member of the committee to arrange payment of your membership.
Tidy Towns Lottery
The weekly Tidy Towns lottery draw took place in O’Brien’s on Tuesday last 11th June for a jackpot of €15,000. The numbers drawn were 15, 16, 22, and 27. There was nobody lucky enough to have the four numbers drawn out and the jackpot of €15,000 remains the same for the next Tuesday draw. The winner of the €50 prize was Tom Gill, Ballyglass, and the three €20 prizes went to Kathleen T. Kelly, Carraroe, Geraldine c/o Mags and John & Francie c/o Lanesboro Tidy Towns
The draw will take place in O’Brien’s every Tuesday morning.
Triathlon
Lanesboro Tri Club once again will host their annual Sprint Distance Two Provinces Triathlon on Saturday 7th July. Many types of races will take place during the event from try-a-tri, Aqua Bike, and the triathlon itself. The exciting and much enjoyed Kidathon for kids between 8 and 15 years old will as usual take place on Friday evening 5th July.
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 The weekly card game took place on Sunday night last and the results of the night are Joint 1st Billy & George and Tom & Joe. Last game winners were Jim & Kitty. Raffle winners were Kathleen Maguire, Tom Fox, Kitty Feeney & Peter Gregg.
The game continues every Sunday night at 8.30pm in the Parish Hall where light refreshments are always served.
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 week 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.
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.
On Sunday next 23rd at St John’s Lanesboro: Holy Communion Service and the final church service for the month of June will take place on Sunday 30th at St John’s Lanesboro, Morning Prayer
Church Gate Collection
The Elphin Assisted Pilgrimage to Lourdes Church Gate collection will take place on all Masses on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June at Ballyleague, Curraghroe and Ballagh. There will be 35 assisted pilgrims brought to Lourdes this year and your support will be greatly appreciated.
Women’s Midsummer Retreat on Saturday
Rest, Recover, Reconnect.
The retreat will be facilitated by Chartered Health Psychologist Marianne Fallon on Saturday next 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.
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 Shrine 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 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 10th June the Rathcline GAA 50/50 weekly draw took place in Adie’s Bar, The prize for the night was guaranteed by the club to be €1,000 and the winning envelope drawn out was in the name of Robyn McHugh, Rathcline Road. The jackpot for the draw on Monday night was a staggering €1,455 and Robyn was delighted to be the proud recipient of a cheque for such a huge amount.
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
Employability Service Roscommon: The EmployAbility Service is an Employment and Recruitment Service to assist people with a disability, health condition, illness or injury to pursue and maintain employment in the open labour market. Are you currently aged over 18 years? Do you have a disability health condition, illness or injury? Would you consider working? If so, why not let Seetec Employability Service Roscommon support you to find a job in your local area. This is confidential and a free individualised service funded by the Department of Social Protection. For further information call/text 0860684337 or email Corrina.harlow@seetec.ie
Church Gate Collection: The Elphin Assisted Pilgrimage to Lourdes Church Gate collection will take place on all Masses on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd June. There will be 35 assisted pilgrims brought to Lourdes this year.
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