Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Fire at Iconic House
On Monday morning last while we were all waking up the dawning of a brand-new day and week one family were already up, and the day did not bring any great joy for the day and weeks ahead.
The wonderfully located house, down at the bridge, on a great site, with wonderful views of the Shannon owned for generations by the Ryan family had a fire that did untold damage to the house and contents.
Thankfully, it was noticed that something was amiss and when investigated the fire was discovered which at that time was fully ablaze. Seadna, his wife Teresa and son Duileach safely evacuated the house.
It is horrible to see such an iconic house in its current state caused by the fire, but we are all delighted and relieved that Seadna, Teresa and Duileach emerged safely from what must have been a horrendous ordeal.
It was wonderful to hear that offers of help, support and accommodation poured in from throughout the community. It just goes to show the great community spirit within our community.
Both Lanesboro Fire tenders responded to the fire in what was remarkable short time considering that everyone got the call when they were sleeping at 6am. Lanesboro was also supported by a fire tender from Longford Town. It just goes to show how absolutely essential it is to have the fire station in our community and how vital it is to have those highly trained and qualified personnel working for us in our time of need.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Evelyn Keane and her family, Cloontuskert on the death of her sister Mrs Tess Masterson, Geesala, Co. Mayo on Friday last 11th March
Birth
Many congratulations to Mary Duffy and Nathan Donlon, Bornacor, on the recent birth of a baby boy.
Sympathy
Our deepest sympathy to Donal O’Grady and family, Ballyleague on the recent and sudden death of his brother Joe, Ardnatagle, O’Briensbridge, Co. Clare who passed away on Wednesday 2nd March.
Picture Perfect
On Friday it was wonderful to see a local man featured on the hugely popular RTÉ 1 afternoon programme Today. As a regular feature on a Friday Maura Derrane and Daithí Ó Sé were discussing what was the standout news from the regional papers throughout the county. Presenter of this section Joe O’Shea was praising a photograph of Trim Castle as the highlight of the week. This iconic castle was lit up in the Ukrainian colours of blue and yellow and the photograph was really stunning. This photograph garnishing so much acclaim was taken by no other that local man and now a resident of Trim Enda Casey, son of Mary and the late Tommy Casey, Rathcline Road. Enda is regularly featured in the Meath Chronicle for some wonderful photographs, and we congratulate him on this amazing photograph.
Death
The entire community was rocked to its foundations last when we heard of the death at the Ciúin Suite, Mullingar Regional Hospital of Eileen O’Hara, Cloontuskert. Formerly Eileen Carty she was predeceased by her son Fergal, father Patrick and just 11 weeks ago by her mother Annie. Eileen was always a beacon in our community. A wonderful person with a heart of gold, a tireless worker – a lady with a terrific work ethic – and most of all a tremendous family woman. She took ill during the last days of her late mother’s illness and put up a terrific fight until she was called from this world on Saturday 5th March. Through our growing life and right up to the present-day we always admired Eileen for her warm, considerate, and welcoming personality. She let us all with precious memories that will ensure that her spirit will live on for a very long time. Eileen character touched everyone that got to know her and her big heart especially to those that needed it most bore out the quality of the lady. She will be greatly and sadly missed.
Eileen’s remains reposed in Smyth’s Funeral Home, Roscommon on Tuesday. The removal of her remains from her home in Cloontuskert to the Church of the Holy Rosary for the Mass of the Resurrection took place on Wednesday followed by burial in Cloontuskert Cemetery. To her daughters Finola and Ciara, granddaughter Kelsey, sisters Mary and Ena, brother Sean, relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Swim for Ukraine
The Lough Ree Orcas are a Lanesboro based all year round swimming group with Pods in Portrunny, Strokestown and Tarmonbarry and apart from swimming daily in all seasons, have held a number of fundraising swims in recent years .
A number of the Orcas swimmers have completed Ice Kilometre swim under 5° degrees and a dedicated few are seasoned Ice Mile swimmers.
They would love for as many people as possible to come down to these swims to swim ,dip , splash or just cheer, jeer and support these events to raise some funds for the people of Ukraine at this terrible time for them .
Contractor in the Woods
Last week I was chatting to local man and Longford Co. Co. engineer Brian Ross. He told me that presently there is great deal of work going on in the woods where a contractor is presently there doing some essential work, repairing and upgrading the walks making the Commons North Woodlands Walk a special place to go to for your walks. The work done already has made a dramatic impact and we look forward to the completion of the walkway in the near future.
Parish Hall
The committee of our St. Mary’s parish hall is delighted to say that following the lifting of all restrictions the hall is now open for large or small bookings. The booking officer is Marie English, 086 3365881. Due to work commitments Marie may not be able to get to the phone when you call but she will return calls after work.
The infamous 25 partners card drive has resumed on Sunday nights with play starting at 8.30pm sharp.
Tractor, Motorbike and Vintage Car Run
Your local tidy towns committee would like to say their previously cancelled tractor, motorbike and vintage car run will now take place on Sunday 24th April. Entry €20. More details to follow or from any of the committee.
New Hair Salon
The very best of luck to Valentina Antonacci, who last week opened her new hair salon ‘The Hair Lab’ on Main Street. The Hair Lab is located opposite Orla O’Brien’s chemist. Valentina worked as hair stylist at the Glam Bar before deciding to go out on her own.
Ed Sheeran
The Shannon Gael Minor club in conjunction with the Rathcline Ladies club are holding a fundraising draw for the chance to go to see world superstar Ed Sheeran in Croke Park on Saturday 23rd April or Sunday 24th April. The first and second prizes are 2 tickets for Saturday and 2 tickets for the Sunday.
This is a wonderful opportunity to get to see one of the world superstars and all for just €2. Cards of tickets are available from Mark Kenny, the minor club executive or from O’Brien’s
Boro Celtic to Celebrate
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the historic treble winning team of ’97.
A suggestion was made that it would only be fitting to acknowledge and mark this wonderful achievement. This event would be a celebration of the Boro Celtic club, not just the ’97 team and would include all past players, mentors and club officials.
Anyone interested in either the local re-union or a night away should contact Michael 086 3612152 or Steve 087 7847745. The decision is yours so make it known to either of the lads
ATM Update
Joe Finnegan on Shannonside, took up the running during the week on the ongoing saga over the empty ATM. When they contacted the company in charge it was one excuse on Tuesday. When the excuse was checked out and they went back to say it was not that reason Joe was told it was another reason. As I write this piece there still is no money in the ATM. The saga just continues.
Red Cross Appeal
If you have availability or can provide accommodation for Ukrainian refugees, you are asked to register with Irish Red Cross. Countrywide there has been a remarkable response by the Irish people in the donation of money as well as registering themselves for the provision of accommodation.
For more information or to register accommodation you are advised to go to https://registerofpledges.redcross.ie
Rathcline 50/50
The Rathcline 50/50 draw took place on Monday night February in Adie’s bar. The winner of this week’s 50/50 draw was Cathal and Fiona Chapman, Lisnacusha, who won €246. The 50/50 pool is becoming to get back to a worthwhile figure following the greater movement of people in the community.
It is the aim of the club to continue to increase sales to the point that the jackpot prize every week will be in the region of €400. This can only happen with your support and encouragement to other to join in and play. The draw on Monday night 14th March in is taking place in Adie’s Bar. The club would like to welcome the new players to the weekly draw and thank everyone for their continued support and would encourage everyone to become involved in the weekly draw.
If you prefer you can play the 50/50 for a year pink ticket for €100 or for 6 months on the green ticket. These options are also available on the revamped and live Rathcline club app.
GROW
Grow is a Community Mental Health Movement which meets every Monday at 11am in the Community Mental Health Centre, Dublin Rd., Longford. If you are feeling lonely, isolated or suffering from stress, please feel free to attend. Contact Assumpta for information by phoning her on 086 8114135.
Blow Ins – The Book
A new supply of ‘From here to There – Blow Ins’ a book by, now local man, Andrew Knowles is becoming a very popular book is now back in stock in O’Brien’s. Andrew and his wife Angie since their arrival have become an integral part of our community. The feedback on his book has been excellent and everyone says a “most enjoyable read” The sale of the book has been remarkable and it is a must read for everyone. The book can be nought in O’Brien’s for €10.
Mini Marathon
Yes! Following a two-year absence, the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon will take place in Dublin on Sunday 5th June. As was the norm pre lockdown Pam Farrell is running a bus from Lanesboro to Dublin for the race. To book a seat or to get more information phone Pam on 087 4146987 after 6pm.
Support for Trócaire
Every year during lent there is an appeal by Trócaire for supporting developments by their volunteers in a particular country in their time of need. This year Trócaire is supporting the people of Zimbabwe that is been devastated by conflict, Covid and injustice.
If you have not already picked up your Lenten Trócaire Box you can do so by dropping into St. Mary’s Church when you are passing. The Trócaire boxes are available in the church porch and your support will be greatly appreciated. Your support no matter how small will be of huge benefit to the volunteers in their efforts to make life just a bit better for the people.
St. John’s Lenten Services
The upcoming Lenten Services for St. John’s Lanesboro and St. Coman’s Roscommon are as follows
Service of Holy Communion Sunday 20th March at 11.30am in Roscommon
Lent Service Tuesday 22nd March at 8pm in Roscommon
Service of Holy Communion on Mothering Sunday, Sunday 27th March at 11.30am in Lanesborough
Lent Service Wednesday 30th March at 8pm in Lanesborough
Convert your old VHS Tapes
Like many of us there are a multitude of old VHS tapes hanging around our houses and we do not know what to do with them. Declan Gilmore has come up with the solution. He will convert your old VHS tapes to DVD, USB or memory stick. Declan has the facility to convert and now he is offering a local opportunity to get your old VHS tapes converted.
Call Declan at 086 8342935
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to Covid-19. Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week from 8am until 8pm. Text TALK to 50808 to begin.
Alcohol Anon Meetings
Relatives and friends of alcoholics are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre building at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral on St. Mel’s Road, any Tuesday evening at 7pm.
Ballyboro FC
The club wishes Christian Donlon all the best as he departs for Wales this week along with the rest of the Irish under 15 international squad. Ireland will play two internationals against the host country in Newport on this Tuesday and Thursday, and no doubt Christian will do the club proud with his displays.
A relatively quiet weekend on the playing fields with just two teams in action. In the Combined Counties League Ballyboro gave an impressive display when they got the better of Ballymahon by a 2-0 margin. Darragh Hussey (a delicate flick over the advancing goalkeeper) and Jordan Donlon (an expertly taken penalty) scored for Ballyboro while Mark Tarmey was outstanding in goal. Team: Mark Tarmey, Ben Hussey, Daniel Foley, Greg Cassidy, Luke Lisle, Alan Kenny, David Rooney, Jonathan Hussey, Mirco Bacic, Darragh Hussey, Jordan Donlon. Subs: James Quigley, Henry Masterson, Chris O’Loughlin, Dylan Donlon.
A large number of spectators really enjoyed the under 10s encounter with Melview, Both teams really rose to the occasion and much skill and enthusiasm was evident. Ballyboro: Matthew Murphy, David Kenny, Tyler Murray, Ben Smith, Jay Flynn, Donncha Farrell, Tom Hession, Darragh Shanley, Kyran Horohoe, Malachy Martin, Andrew Nolan, Patrick Casey, Lee Carberry, Luke McDonnell, Thomas Casey.
Well done to Alfie Murphy and Oisin Dillon who were part of the Longford League under 12 squad who played the Mayo League on Sunday.
The next few weeks will be particularly busy for the club as the various leagues and cup competitions come to a conclusion.
St. Faithleach’s Lotto
On Tuesday last in the clubhouse the lottery draw for the €12,000 jackpot took place. The numbers drawn were 1,3, 4 and 15. There was nobody with the correct sequence and the €12,000 jackpot rolls over to the next draw on Tuesday 22nd March. The three winners of the €40 consolation prizes were Michael Sheerin, Mohill, Gerry O’Donnell, Curraghroe and Tommy Hanley Mount Cashel. Tickets are on sale in all outlets in Ballyleague and Lanesboro.
Tidy Towns
On Tuesday 1st March the jackpot for the Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery stood at €7,200 and as it was not won the jackpot rose to €7,300 for the draw on 8th March. The winning numbers drawn on the 1st March were 5, 12, 17 and 22. The winner of the €50 prize was B. McDermott and the three €20 winners were Rosaleen Egan, Derryhaun, M. O’Halloran, 36 the Green and Layla Ryan c/o Jean Fallon.
Lanesboro Library
Tel: 043 332129. Email: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Knitting & Crochet Group
Knitting & Crochet Group continues every Tuesday 2-4pm. Come along for a chat and a cuppa!
All welcome.
Art Classes for Adults
Art Classes with Stephanie Hanlon continue for another 3 weeks at Lanesboro Library. Classes will run on Tuesday evenings 6.15-7.30pm.
Cost €10 each week and bring you are asked to bring your own supplies. Booking is essential by contacting Stella on 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Poetry & Music Circle
Next meeting of the Poetry & Music circle takes place on Thursday 10th March 3-4.30pm.
Come along and join in with this very vibrant group. All welcome.
Beginners Coding Course
Beginners Coding with Siobhan starting soon at Lanesboro Library.
Course is open to children age 8+ and will run for 6 weeks. Class size limited so book early to avoid disappointment!
Contact Stella on 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie to book a place.
#ScratchCoding
Longford Memories Book
This wonderful book by Brian Farrell, ‘Longford Memories – Reflections in a Time of Pandemic’ features interviews with our very own John Casey, Mary McGushin, Mai Casey and Chris Kennelly. Books are available to purchase at the library for €5. Contact Stella for details at 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie.
Foreign Currency & Used Stamps
The library is still collecting unwanted foreign currency and old coins/notes in aid of Koins for Kids. The smallest donation can make a huge difference.
The library is also collect used stamps in aid of ISPCC. Thank you.
St. Mary’s Church
Eucharistic Adoration on Tuesdays in the church from 10.30am until 8pm. It is very important that there will be at least two people in the church for each hour of the Adoration.
Weekday Mass intentions can now to be booked for weekends as well as weekdays. The lifting of the Covid restrictions has returned the anniversary and family masses to be booked for any day from now on. People wishing to book masses can do so by contacting Fr Sergiy before or after mass during the week in the Sacristy.
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament has resumed on Friday evenings, starting this Friday evening and it will take place between 6pm and 6.45pm. Exposition will be followed Mass at 7pm. It is also an opportunity to avail of the opportunity for Confession.
Trócaire Box
If you have not already picked up your Lenten Trócaire Box you can do so by dropping into St. Mary’s Church when you are passing. The Trócaire boxes are available in the church porch and your support will be greatly appreciated. This year Trócaire is supporting the people of Zimbabwe
Parish contacts
Fr. Sergiy can be contacted at the presbytery or by phoning 3321166 or 0833892362. For added support and assistance, you can also contact Fr. Merlyn Kenny, Newtowncashel 0860603433 and Fr. Turlough Baxter, Killashee 0879972259 who as you know are assisting in our parish.
Shannon Gaels
Ed Sheeran
The Shannon Gael Minor club in conjunction with the Rathcline Ladies club are holding a fundraising draw for the opportunity to go to see Ed Sheeran in Croke Park on Saturday 23rd April or Sunday 24th April. The first and second prizes are 2 tickets for Saturday and 2 tickets for the Sunday.
This is a wonderful opportunity to get to see one of the world superstars and all for just €2. Cards of tickets are available from Mark Kenny, the minor club executive or from O’Brien’s.
We are looking forward to the support of everyone in the locality and far afield.
Registration
As we now return to training and underage playing competitions beginning – CLUB REGISTRATION is now OPEN for 2022. All registration is completed online via https://emea01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.foireann.ie%2F&data=04%7C01%7C%7Cdf8ad6cb5bae4ff0c56c08d9efac1d52%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637804344767989671%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&sdata=3P547445ocTg0z%2B9OS%2BITJs2SKOZvPZpnpk3FWuGAIg%3D&reserved=0 (Return To Play | Membership | Games Management) system.
The club would like to welcome all recent and new residents to the parish of Rathcline and we would like to invite you and your family to be part of our club. The club involves itself in underage games for the youngsters of the parish and integrates new people to our parish into the community and we would love to have you as part of our GAA family.
Contact Mark @ Secretarybng.shannongaels.longford@gaa.ie if you have any queries about the Shannon Gaels Minor club or the registration process via Foireann.
Parents can also drop into me in the shop for information on registration.
Cúl Camp
The date of the Longford GAA Cúl Camp in Clonbonny so that parents can organise holidays and not have the disappointment of their kids missing the camp. The camp will take place from Monday 11th July.
Rathcline GAA notes
See attachment for PRO Cathal Chapman’s latest update on the club is this week.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Dinner Dance
Tickets will be on sale in the clubhouse every Thursday from 8-9pm. Tickets are €50
Tickets also available to purchase in Xlntee hairdressers Claire Flynn (086 881 4590) or from Tanya O’Rourke (087 794 9615)
Get yours quick and don’t be disappointed as tickets are selling fast
Junior Men
Our Junior men play Western Gaels on Thursday 17th at 11am.
U17
U17 boys play Elphin/Ballinameen at 4:30 on Saturday next 19th in Orchard Park, Elphin
Ladies
Well done to the junior ladies who got their league campaign off to a winning start on Sunday morning at home to Strokestown.
St. Patrick’s Day
Jersey presentation and Connacht final will be shown in the clubhouse at 3:30. All family friends and community welcome
Cards
Cards will take place every Tuesday night in the clubhouse at 9pm.
Sympathy
Condolences to the O’Hara and Carty family from Cloontuskert on the death of Eileen O’Hara. May she rest in peace.
St. Faithleach’s GAA would like to express our sympathy to Donal O’Grady and family, Ballyleague on the recent sudden death of Donal’s brother Joe O’Grady O’Briensbridge, Co. Clare.
Lottery
No Lotto winner this week. Jackpot stand at €12,000. Envelopes available in all local retailers at €2. Thank you for your continued support