Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Easter Dawn Service
For the first time ever there will be an Ecumenical Easter Dawn Service on the Shannon river banks at 6 a.m., on Easter Sunday morning. This is a joint celebration of the Resurrection with the Church of Ireland and Roman Catholic churches in Lanesboro. Everyone from all religions and none are invited welcome to join in the celebration of Eastertime.
Ballyleague Bingo
A sure sign that things are getting back to normal can be seen with the news from the local committee that Ballyleague Bingo will return to Ballyleague Hall on this Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm. Let’s hope for a bumper crowd right from the start.
25 Card Game
The 25 partners card drive on Sunday nights at 8.30pm sharp is once again building up a head of steam welcoming many players back following the lifting of the Covid restrictions.
The winners of the game on Sunday 27th March were Tom Nohilly & Pat Joe Fallon with 11 games. There was a tie for 2nd on ten games with Mick & Noel Maguire and Aidan Carling & Sean Parker. Last game was won by Barney Kenny & Eugene Kelly. Raffle winners were Jim Horan, Noel Maguire, Eugene Kelly & Peggy Moran.
The results from Sunday 3rd April are 1st with 12 games Peggy & Paddy. 2nd with 10 games Kathleen & Annie. Last game was won by Freda & Josie. Raffle winners were Pat Joe Fallon, Josie Connaughton and Annie Eglinton.
Game next Sunday with play at 8 30 pm sharp. Refreshments serve. Thanks to all for the support.
Winning Score
Once again, the Murtagh brothers from Ballyleague sprung to the rescue helping Roscommon to snatch victory from a high-powered Galway finish in the Final of the Division 2 in Croke park on Sunday last. Ciaráin over the game scored 4pionts while Diarmuid sprung from the subs bench to score a scintillating goal and add on another point. The goal will live long in the memory as it was a goal for the ages and doubtful if there will be the likes scored this year. Diarmuid took on the almost the entire defence soloing and dummying his way past them before unleashing an unstoppable drive past the helpless Galway goalkeeper. It was a goal that really deserved to win a final.
Congratulations to the two lads, their teammates and management on a great win.
The next Roscommon outing will be in 4 weeks’ time when they take on the winners of the New York and Sligo Championship game in either Sligo or Roscommon.
Death
It is with great sadness I relate the sudden death at University Hospital Roscommon on Friday 25th March of Malachy Nelson, Trilacroghan, Curraghroe on Friday 25th March. Malachy was in his 98th years and was predeceased 5 years ago by his wife May. He was a man that spent his life working the family farm while also being involved in the building world. Malachy was an avid reader hence his skill as a great debater. A man that loved to story tell as well as sing a few songs. He was a great dancer and just loved to dance at all the functions he attended. Malachy will be sadly missed in the Curraghroe and wider communities. The measure of his popularity could be seen at the removal of his remains in McHugh’s Funeral Home on Sunday before the removal of his remains to St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh. Following his Funeral Mass on Monday, his remains were laid to rest in Kilgefin Cemetery.
To his family, sons John, Malachy Jnr., and Anthony, daughters Mary, Anne and Eileen, sister Margaret, grandchildren, relatives and friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Deferred again
It seems as if the tractor, motorbike and vintage car run is not destined to happen. What with the first cancellation due to the Covid restrictions and now with the fierce rise in fuel costs the committee decided to once again defer the event scheduled for Sunday 24th April. The committee would like to thank everyone that signalled their intention to take part. Hopefully there will be a reversal in fuel charges in the near future and the committee can once again plan for the big event.
ICA
The local ICA ladies group meet on the second Wednesday of each month in St. Mary’s Hall at 8pm. This is a friendly and welcoming group who like to involve themselves in all things of interest to women from fitness, crafts, creative writing, flower arranging and wellbeing.
The group would like to welcome you to their group on this Wednesday 13th April at 8pm where there will be a guest speaker and the evening will finish off with a cup of tea.
Death
It was with great sadness we learned of the death on Wednesday 23rd March of John Gillooly, Mount Cashel. John was predeceased by his children David and Geraldine and by his brother Fr Peter. John was of farming stock and farmed his land diligently and with great care and attention to the environment around him. He was a very knowledgeable man and great conversationalist. It was always great to be in his company. John’s passing will sadden the hearts and minds of all those that knew him and his passing will leave a great void. His remains reposed at Farrell’s Funeral Home on Tuesday 29th March before his removal took place to St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh. Following his Requiem Mass his remains were laid to rest in Cloontuskert Cemetery. To his wife Carmel, daughter Monica, sons Tom & Paul, brothers Fr. Dominic and Fr. Tommy, grandchildren Liam, Méabh and Chloe, relatives and friends we extend our heartfelt sympathy.
Ed Sheeran tickets
World superstar Ed Sheeran is preparing for what should be two magical concerts in Croke Park on his ‘Mathematics Tour 2022’ on Saturday 23rd April or Sunday 24th April.
Two of our local clubs Shannon Gaels Minor Club and Rathcline Ladies have come together to offer a draw for 2 tickets for the Saturday and the second prize of 2 tickets for the Sunday concert.
There are not many opportunities to see world superstars and specially to see them live for just €2. This surely is an opportunity not to be missed. The draw will take place on Tickets are available in all local shops and pubs or in O’Brien’s. The draw will take place on Monday week 18th April.
Brown Coins
Ballyleague National School Parents’ Association are currently undertaking a fundraising initiative by collecting ‘brown coins'(1c, 2c & 5c coins). Do you have a jar/container of these coins in your home and are willing to donate them to the school? If so, please contact Angela Mullooly (087-7955098), Noreen Hanley (087-6944775) or Claire Flynn (086-8814590) to arrange collection/delivery.
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
St. Faithleach’s Dinner Dance
The ultimate parish night out has always been the annual Dinner Dance. It was a great opportunity for people from all over the parish and local people returning to celebrate a year for the parish. This year St. Faithleach’s had unprecedented success in both men’s and ladies. winning the county and Connacht Intermediate Championships, the Ladies County title and Under 20 Championship. The club will hold a celebration night and presentation Dinner Dance in the Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone on Saturday night next 9th April. Tickets are priced at €50 each and the music will be provided by ‘Odd Sox’. The night will commence at 7pm.
Tickets available to purchase in Xlntee hairdressers Claire Flynn (086 881 4590) or from Tanya O’Rourke (087 794 9615) or you can buy in the clubhouse on Thursday nights between 8pm and 10pm. Be part of a wonderful parish celebration.
Rathcline 50/50
The Rathcline 50/50 draw took place on Monday night 28th March in Adie’s bar. The winner of this week’s 50/50 draw was John & Brigid McDonagh who won the princely sum of €312 which continues the steady rise in the weekly prize. The rise in the prizemoney is marvellous and the aim of keeping the prize at a consistent €400 a week is most definitely getting closer.
The draw on Monday night 4th April is taking place in the Clarke’s Bar. The club welcomes 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.
Memorial Mass
With the approach of Henry Kenny’s second death anniversary, a memorial mass to celebrate his life will be celebrated in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Friday evening next 8th April at 6pm.
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
The first print is running out such has been the demand for the recent book Blow In’s written by Andrew Knowles. The general consensus is that it is a most enjoyable read hence the great demand. Word of mouth can spell the success or failure of any publication and most definitely it has been to cause of the success of this book. The book can be bought in O’Brien’s for €10.
Easter Revision Course
Lorraine Kenny, Roscommon Maths Grinds, will be holding an Easter Revision Course on Tuesday 19th and Wednesday 20th April at Jackson’s, The Square, Roscommon. On Tuesday 19th Financial Maths and on Wednesday 20th the course will cover The Line & The Circle. For information contact Lorraine at 086 3688302 or roscommongrinds@gmail.com
A booking deposit will be required.
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.
Mary’s Meals Pop Up
A Pop-Up shop in aid of Mary’s Meals will open at St. Pauls Gatehouse, Connolly’s Army Barracks for 3 days this week. The shop will open from 10am to 5.30pm on Thursday 7th, Friday 8th and Saturday 9th April. Your support will be greatly appreciated. For further information contact Kitty 087 0405621
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 had seven players in representative action at the weekend. Alfie Murphy, Oisin Dillon and Tim Kenny played with the Longford League under 12 team in their game with the Roscommon League. Alfie had the honour of being selected as captain while Oisin scored a goal for the League team. Anthony Cox and David Cox featured on the Longford League under 15 team who were narrowly defeated by the Galway League. Sophie Cox and Saoirse Feeney made their debut for the League team in their game with the Mayo League. Congratulations to all the players, you did the League and the club proud.
The under 14s league campaign came to a conclusion when they were defeated by Killoe Celtic in the Premier League semi-final at Cullyfad. Though the team tried hard they found the going tough as they had to field without a number of key players due to injury. Two goals up at half time the Killoe boys added four more in the second period to win well. For the Ballyboro boys attention now focuses on the Cup where hopefully the injured players will be fit to return for the first round game with UCL Harps. Team: Eoin Beattie, Dan Casey, Leon Malkowski, Michael Nolan, John Farrell, Ethan Slattery, Noah McLoughlin, Billy Murray. Rian Shanley, Cody Phelan, Eoin Connell. Subs: Ciaran McGloin, Matthew Murray, James Cullen, Sean O’Dowd.
The under 11s were in fine fettle in their encounter with Newtown. The displayed some fine combination football as well as some clinical finishing. Panel: Michael Hogan, Darragh McGloin, Conor Kilcoyne, Tom Hession, Adam Greally, Ethan Donnellan (2), Eanna Kenny (1), Donncha Farrell (3), Darragh Shanley (2), Owen Collins.
The improvement in the under 14 girls was very evident in their game with Newtown. The Ballyboro girls matched their opponents throughout the game with much endeavour and no little skill. The game finished 0-0, but the Ballyboro girls might have snatched the spoils late on as they twice hit the post. Squad: Lily Dowd, Amy Burke, Anna Cox, Marianna Donlon, Alice Farrell, Phoebe Ryan, Kate Malone, Emma Feeney, Emma Dowd, Kate Ferguson, Emily Ryan, Sarah Healy.
Tidy Towns
On Tuesday 29th March the jackpot for the Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery stood at €7,500 and as it was not won the jackpot rose to €7,600 for the draw on 5th April. The winning numbers drawn on the 29th March were 4, 7, 11 and 22. The winner of the €50 prize was Declan, Luke and James Curran, Carraroe, and the three €20 were Mary Feeney, Ballymahon road, Lorraine Kearney, c/o Mags, and Sandra & Kathleen Morris, Church View
During December and January, a large number of daffodils were planted on the three approach roads into the town. It is hoped to continue this planting over the over the coming years to brighten up our approach Roads during springtime.
Lanesboro Library
Tel: 043 332129. Email: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Easter Arts & Crafts with Stephanie
Easter Arts & Crafts with Stephanie takes place on Wednesday 13th April from 2 – 3 pm.
All materials will be supplied for this fun afternoon. Children aged 5+ please.
Places are limited so book early by calling 0433321291 or emailing lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Knitting & Crochet Group
Knitting & Crochet Group continues every Tuesday 2-4pm. Come along for a chat and a cuppa!
All welcome.
Sing, Storytime & Crafts with Penny
Sing, Storytime and Craft Activity with Penny takes place on Saturday April 2nd at 12 to 1pm at the library. This event is suitable for children aged 3 to 7 yrs. old. Spaces are limited so book now on 0433321291 or email lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie
Poetry & Music Circle
Next meeting of the Poetry & Music circle takes place on Thursday 7th April 3-4.30pm.
Come along and join in with this very vibrant group. All welcome.
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
Confirmation. Confirmation will take place this Friday in St. Mary’s Church at 4pm.
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
GAA Academy
The club would like to invite every young player from the ages of U7 to U17 to join our club. We have just commenced the Shannon Gael GAA Academy in Clonbonny for boys and girls under the guidance of new Games Promotion Officer Declan McKenna.
Declan will focus training that supports the ABCFs. Agility + Balance + Co-ordination and Fun during all his sessions. Interested parents are invited to contact Declan on 087 7031407.
Come along with you youngster, join us and together we will flourish.
Games Promotion Officer
The minor club is very excited and delighted to announce the arrival of the recently appointed Games Promotion Officer (GPO) Declan McKenna to the club. This is a new initiative undertaken by the club and it is supported by Longford County Board and Leinster Council.
Declan has commenced his work with us and he will be attending the two schools Lanesboro Primary and Fermoyle National Schools to develop all the youngsters in both schools.
In the coming weeks we will be inviting all boys and girls to Clonbonny to begin the coaching and development of our underage players.
This is a wonderful opportunity for all boys and girls that want to play football and their parents to be aware of the top class coaching that is now available with the Shannon Gaels club. Even though they youngsters do not go to the two local schools they can still avail of underage training in Clonbonny.
Gary’s role is (1) to support Gaelic Games and athletic development for all children in the two Primary Schools. (2) To organise and co-ordinate our nursery section and provide guidance to our voluntary coaches. (3) Assist with the implementation of coaching and skill development initiatives that are suitable to players from U7 to U17. (4) Facilitate the development of coaching in the club by setting up courses and workshops.
Ed Sheeran Tickets
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.
Under 11
U11 Go Games Football Fixtures start on Friday 15th April where we are at home, in Clonbonny, to Northern Gaels. The throw in is timed for 7pm. The following week we will entertain Longford Slashers again in Clonbonny at 7pm.
Under 9
U9 Go Games Football Fixtures start on Monday 11th April
As in previous years which has worked really well, Underage sections have the opportunity to select the venue they attend for each blitz.
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.
Games Promotion Officer
The minor club is very excited and delighted to announce the arrival of the recently appointed Games Promotion Officer (GPO) Declan McKenna to the club. This is a new initiative undertaken by the club and it is supported by Longford County Board and Leinster Council.
Declan has commenced his work with us and he will be attending the two schools Lanesboro Primary and Fermoyle National Schools to develop all the youngsters in both schools.
In the coming weeks we will be inviting all boys and girls to Clonbonny to begin the coaching and development of our underage players.
This is a wonderful opportunity for all boys and girls that want to play football and their parents to be aware of the top class coaching that is now available with the Shannon Gaels club. Even though they youngsters do not go to the two local schools they can still avail of underage training in Clonbonny.
Gary’s role is (1) to support Gaelic Games and athletic development for all children in the two Primary Schools. (2) To organise and co-ordinate our nursery section and provide guidance to our voluntary coaches. (3) Assist with the implementation of coaching and skill development initiatives that are suitable to players from U7 to U17. (4) Facilitate the development of coaching in the club by setting up courses and workshops.
Rathcline GAA notes
Click on the link and see PRO Cathal Chapman’s latest update on the club is this week.
https://1drv.ms/b/s!AnjTDxytk4Mnv3IN1mtk1aJ-Y8tb
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Dinner Dance
St. Faithleach’s Dinner Dance which takes place in the Radisson Blu Athlone on this Saturday evening 9th April. All players, friends, family and community are invited to attend. Presentations on the night includes Intermediate County Championship medals, Connacht Final Championship medals, Junior Ladies Championship medals and U20 Championship medals. Music by the Odd Sox.
For tickets contact Claire Flynn /Tanya O’Rourke.
Senior men
Our senior men were defeated in the opening round of the O’Rourke Cup against St. Brigid’s last Friday night
U15
The U15 lads are at home v Barry’s/Kilglass on Tuesday 7pm and they are away to Boyle Thursday 7pm. Please Support
Congratulations
Congratulations to Ciarán and Diarmuid Murtagh on their Allianz Division 2 League Victory over Galway on Sunday in Croke Park.
Cúl Camps
Cúl Camps take place this August in St. Faithleach’s. Visit www.kelloggscupcamps.gaa.ie to book your place.
Brown Coins
Ballyleague National School Parents’ Association are currently undertaking a fundraising initiative by collecting ‘brown coins'(1c, 2c & 5c coins). Do you have a jar/container of these coins in your home and are willing to donate them to the school? If so, please contact Angela Mullooly (087-7955098), Noreen Hanley (087-6944775) or Claire Flynn (086-8814590) to arrange collection/delivery.
U16 Girls
League Quarter Final 6.30 pm in Ballyleague on Sunday 10th. Please support.