Lanesboro Ballyleague Notes

Defibrillator Training

Are you trained in the use of the defibrillator? Do you need to complete your refresher course? If yes, then you are asked to leave you name in with Martina or Bridgie O’Brien in the Corner Shop and a refresher course will be arranged.

Do you want to be trained in the use of the defibrillator? It is one of the most vital and worthwhile training you can have. If you are interested in being trained in the use of a defibrillator you are asked to leave your name in with Martina or Bridgie O’Brien in the shop. There is always a need for more people to take this course and your support will be vital.

Urgent Need for Road Work

Throughout the winter and right up to the present day a fall of rain brings its own share of troubles to John and Jacqui Rooney and their family in Rathcline. To those of you that know the layout and positioning of the road and their house you can appreciate their plight. The rain water flows down from the hill of Carraroe and indeed it is joined with a flow coming out of the graveyard road also. The water then lodges outside of their house with some of it flowing and lodging in their garden. The water on the road at this point can be up to eight inches deep and with a large volume of traffic using this road on a daily business it is impossible for any family member to be in the front area of the house such is the splash right up to their front door.

Remedial work was done some time back but this has not alleviated the problem – perhaps another look at this problem will identify and rectify this problem.

A further problem is that on one side of the road there is a drop into a channel that is totally hidden when the water is on the road and unless great care is taken when meeting another car there is a danger of one of the cars going into this channel and casing damage and injury and meeting lorries or school bus makes it all the more dangerous.

Hopefully the necessary work will soon take place to relieve this problem spot and leave it safe for the family and drivers alike.

Lanesboro Bridge Club

The results of the Lanesboro Bridge clubs competition held on Wednesday night 9^th May are; N/S 1^st Phil Chalmers & Cyril Hussey, 2^nd Mona O’Flaherty & Bernadette Gillen and 3^rd Marie Sheeran & Mary Mc Gushin. E/W 1^st Una Clarke & Tom Feeney, 2^nd Kathleen Reilly & Maureen Hynes and 3^rd Brid Mc Dermott & Una Lawlor.

Lanesboro Library

Storytime with Frances continues in Lanesboro Library on Saturday week 19^th May from 12noon to 1pm. All are welcome.

Lanesboro’s Indoor Market

A large number of locally produced items as well as a great selection of goods are available. The market takes place from 11am to 1.30pm every Friday and it is a place well worth a visit if only to browse. The range of goods on sale are local home baking, local jams, free range eggs & mushrooms, gold, silver, gemstone and costume jewellery, goats milk beauty products, books, bric a brac & cd’s, Forever aloe vera products. John King (Healer and Angel Cards readings), fabulous hand-made cards and hand-made knitted scarfs/hats. There is also a range of dried flowers arrangements and handbags. Drumsna Garden Centre flower arrangements available. Free car parking to rear of building (beside the playground). Tea, Coffee and light snacks will also be available. Contact 087 3965568 for answers to queries.

Rathcline Ladies Clothes Collection

Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels and textiles including shoes, bags and belts and soft toys and books (novels).  If anyone has bags to get rid of please call Madaleine on 086 1500123.

Rathcline Ladies going to the Dogs

The Rathcline Ladies club are holding a Race Night at Longford Greyhound Track on Friday night 22^nd June. The club is currently actively seeking sponsorship for the races and also sponsorship for the race night programme. The club is hoping for great support from the communities that the girls come from.

The Rathcline ladies had a wonderful successful year last year and this year promises to be equally as good, if not better. The club is riding on a crest of a wave with so many of their panels playing leading and significant roles on the hugely successful county senior and Under 14 teams. The club is planning astutely for the future and the Greyhound Night Out will help immensely towards the future funding of the club.

The deserve our support, so let’s give it to them.

Ladies Mini Marathon Bus almost full

The bus to the  annual Ladies Mini Marathon will take place on Bank Holiday Monday 4^th June is filling up and only a limited number of seats still remain. Do not leave it until the last minute to book as you may be disappointed to find out that it is full. To book a seat on the bus you should contact Pam Farrell any day after 6pm at 087-4146987.

Books 4 Books

If 1000 books are donated to the Ladybird shop by Saturday 2^nd June the Ladybird Shop will donate €150 to local schools to purchase new books for their class libraries. You are invited to bring books to the shop between 10am and 5pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Can you give a Hand?

Shannon Gaels Minor Club and Rathcline Ladies Club have come together to commit to the mowing of the Underage playing field for the coming season. Presently they are drawing up a rota to carry out the mowing. It will be teams of 4/5 and both clubs are seeking your support. It will not be too taxing of a task and it will get people together for a couple of hours fresh air. Please contact Sean Kenny or Madeleine if you can be part of the mowing team.

Already two teams are in place and we hope that you will come and join in and it is hoped that there will be five teams.

Shannonside Camera Club

The next meeting of the Shannonside Camera Club takes place on Mon. 21st at 8pm. A full attendance is requested old and new members welcomed – a presentation and discussion of three panels of photographs (30) will be given by Niamh Whitty who is now acclaimed with a Fellowship received from the Irish Photograph Federation

Fermoyle NS Success

The FAI blitz noted last week proved to be a great success for Fermoyle National School who came away as North Leinster champions. They now qualify for the final that will include two Dublin sides and the south Leinster champions and we wish them the very best of luck. The panel representing the school is Cronan Flood, Cillian Flood, Odhran Wyse, Oran Kenny, Connell Kennelly, Kian Gilmore, Daniel Curran and Luke Lisle.

Rathcline Drama

A Cure for Nerves, and supporting acts – Noel Carberry and friends, Sean Nos dancers, School around the Corner – kids from Lanesboro, Ballyleague, Fermoyle and pupils that have left school. MC’s will be Eugene Murphy, Shannonside Radio and also Tom Maguire. All in aid of St. Mary’s Church Restoration Fund.

Card Game Change

The usual Sunday night card game in the Peer Inn on Sunday night 27^th May has been changed to take place on Saturday night 26^th May.

Rathcline Lay Ministers

All Lay Ministers from the parish of Rathcline are invited to the Longford Arms Hotel on Wednesday 30yh May from 7.30pm to 9.30pm for an evening of input and discussion on the topic Lay Ministry in the Church. It is hoped that all lay ministers will attend.

Lough Ree Athletic Club

The Roscommon County Championships for the U12 and upwards took place on Thursday last 8^th May at Athlone IT. . An evening meeting is never a great idea, particularly if the competitors are attending school all day.  This was reflected by the numbers taking part. The county champions for 2012 are Orla Keane U12 60m, Clodagh Kiely U13 Shot, Ronan English U13 Shot, Owen Murray U14 80m, Long Jump and Shot, Anna Peters 100m and Long Jump, Stephen O’ Dowd U15 Shot and Conor English U16 Shot.

Silver medallists were Orla Keane U12 600m, Cronan Flood U13 600m, Radek Pawdoski U14 Shot, Anna Peters U15 Shot, Cian Donoghoe U15 Long Jump and Shot, Conor English U16 80m, 800m and Long Jump, Enda Berga U17 100m and Clodagh Kiely U13 Long Jump.

Bronze medallists were Eanna Donoghoe U13 600m and Long Jump, Cian Donoghoe U15 800m and Iarla O’Sullivan U15 Shot

Well done to all who took part, particularly as the conditions were far from ideal. Spare a thought for Rebecca and Patricia, classmates, who waited patiently for the Under12 Ball Throw to take place, where they would have given a good account of themselves. Due to the inclement weather darkness came down too soon. Enda Berga was also in the same boat as she waited for the Javelin to take place.

Stephen O’Dowd was an impressive newcomer and some of the squad should consider the combined events competition in the future. The club looks forward to the Connaught Finals in Galway in the near future and of course the parish Community Games.

Rathcline Ladies

The ladies team travel to Ballymahon on Sunday morning next for the next round of the Gold Cup. They play Ballymahon/Forgney at 11.30am. Well done to the senior team that overcame Slashers on Sunday last. The Under16 team plays on Thursday evening next against Ballymahon /Forgney in Ballymahon. The ladies club have the Rathcline GAA tickets for sale. Contact Madeleine.

Lanesboro Triathlon Club

Register for Race 2012: Places are filling up fast for our Lanesboro Triathlon Club ‘Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon in association with AUDI ATHLONE at Michael Moore Car Sales’ on Sat 14th July 2012. Don’t be disappointed to miss out, so sign up soon via our club website www.trilanesboro.com. You can submit an individual entry or register as part of a relay team. It promises to be a great day’s enjoyment.

Training: Run sessions continue on the track every Wed evening at 8pm, and Sliabh Ban on Sun mornings at 9a.m. Club cycle takes place every Sat morning leaving Lanesboro church at 10am. Please keep an eye on our club website www.trilanesboro.com or our Facebook page ‘trilanesboro’ for further info & updates. Well done to all who braved the first open water swim of the year on Saturday evening last in Lanesboro and also all those who completed the 20k bike time trial on Friday evening.

Club gear: Anyone interested in ordering club cycling gear please contact Andrée ASAP, on 0868866216, as final order is being placed this week. Check out our website www.trilanesboro.com for info on all the gear.

Well done:  On Sunday May 6th, a gang of 24 members of Lanesboro Tri Club headed in convoy to take on the Boyle Charity Duathlon. Standing out from the crowd, decked out in the new club colours, Lanesboro Tri Club were a talking point among many an athlete and spectator!! A mix of abilities turned up for the duathlon, 5k run- 20k cycle – 2.5k run, from those taking part in their first duathlon to those returning to set new personal bests -  all putting in brilliant performances. The sun shone brightly, rain stayed away and all in all everyone had a great day. Big congrats to Graham O’Brien and Colm Daly who both took home first place in their respective categories, and to Sean and Siobhan Mimnagh who picked up the couples prize. Congrats also to Seán Farrell and Marie Mc Loughlin, first male and female home for the club. Thanks to James Gallagher and Oonagh Casey for the snaps of the event.

Rathcline GAA

Our senior team got their first point of the league season in a 2-5 to 0-11 draw at home to Fr. Manning Gaels. The next game is away to St Columba’s, scheduled for 8pm on Wednesday May 23^rd.

The next Reserve League game will take place on Friday away to Ardagh at Keenan Park. Throw in is at 8pm, and as always your support would be greatly appreciated.

Tickets are now being sold by club members for the new club lotto. The competition begins on the June Bank Holiday weekend, with the winning numbers based on that Saturday’s National Lottery Draw. The opening jackpot starts off at €600, and if the jackpot is not won in a particular draw €100 will be added to the pool the following week. For each week that the jackpot is not won, 4 members of the subscription list will receive €25 each. The annual subscription fee for the Lotto is €100, and is payable by either standing order, a full year cash payment or bi-yearly cash payments of €50. Participants who choose to pay the full year cash payment will be included in a draw for a weekend away to the value of €200. All preliminary proceeds will go towards repaying annual repayments with the Credit Union loan deal, and any surplus will be spent on the day to day running of the club and the development of Clonbonny. The club are very grateful towards everybody who has supported the club in the past, and hope to continue to receive that extraordinary level of support.

Golfing Society

We had our first Golfer of year competition on Friday, 4th May at Roscommon Golf Course.

A very enjoyable was had by all members who took part on this our first outing with our new captain, Liam Rosemond.

Indeed Liam had a good day all round as his fine score of 37 stableford points was sufficient to win the first prize.

Roscommon Golf course was in good nick and thanks to the committee for the good condition of the course.

The catering staff is to be congratulated also for the lovely tasty fare on offer after the game.

John James O Shea also had 37 points but he was pipped into 2nd place as Liam’s 18 points on back nine beat John James’ 17!

3rd prize was won by Tommy Reilly with 34 points. The first nine was won by our new treasurer, Colm Dardis with 19 points and the back nine was won by Peter Day also on 19 points.

The lady’s prize was won by Marie Simpson and nearest the pin on the 16th was won by our stalwart Jack McGovern. Nearest the pin prize was sponsored by Brendan Whitty.

Well done to all and we look forward to our next outing to Longford at a date yet to be fixed.

Shannon Gaels

Despite a great performance the Under 16 team went down to Colmcille in a great final in Ballinalee last week. Well done to the lads and we hope that they can make amends in the championship. The minors continue to train every Thursday evening in Clonbonny. The Under14 team play this Thursday evening. The next game for the under 13 team is at the end of the month. The Under 12 team are training every Saturday between 11 and 12noon. The Under 6, 8 and 10 are beginning their year on Thursday next between 7 and 8pm.

15 Years of Eucharistic Adoration

In celebration of this treasure in the Parish of Rathcline and in preparation for the Eucharistic Congress in June, we will have a special hour of prayer reflection finishing with Benediction on Monday 28^th may from 7 to 8pm.

All who attend the Eucharistic Adoration on Tuesdays, all who minister in the Parish, all who feel burdened and anxious and don’t know where to turn are encouraged to join in this special hour of prayer.

Lanesboro Community Games

At the County Swimming, in the individual events, Dúileach Ryan and Con Casserly got gold medals and will represent Longford In the U-10 and U14 Freestyle races in Athlone in Summer.  Séadhna Ryan came a very close second in the U-12 breaststroke while Aisling Farrell and Orla Ryan swam very well to get silver medals in the u-12 Breaststroke and backstroke and Aimee Chalmers picked up a silver medal in the U-8 freestyle.  In the other individual events, the children gained great experience that they put to good use in the relays.  The Girls relay team of Rosin Brennan, Hazel Johnson, Orla Ryan, Aisling Farrell, and Jane Dowd brought home anU-13 silver medal.  In the U-13 boy’s relay race, while the winner in this race was a foregone conclusion, Lanesboro were neck and neck with Longford North team for silver and bronze medals.  Dúileach Ryan gave Lanesboro the early edge, Phillip Chalmers and Evan Chalmers swam out of their skins to keep Lanesboro in touch for Séadhna Ryan to finish off and secure the silver medal.    All the children were very happy to be going home with their medals.   See Picture below.

Finally, remember Lanesboro Community Games will be holding the area athletics competition on Sunday 20^th May at 5.30pm.   Up to 42 children will be needed to represent Lanesboro in the Athletics County Finals and hope the same will be the case this year.  There are many events from sprint to distance running, and also many field events.  We hope every child in the parish will come along.

St. Faithleach’s GAA

O’Rourke Cup: We had a win over Western Gaels on Sunday last in Frenchpark. Final Score – St. Faithleachs 0-11 Western Gaels 1-05. Team: B. Carberry, R. Cox, A. McCormack, D. Thompson, P. Wallace, D. Murray, D. McCormack, M. Reynolds (0-2), C. Brennan(0-1), H. Kenny, C. Murtagh(0-4), E. Kenny(0-1), D. Harrison(0-1), D. Rooney(0-1), B. Scally. Sub: B. Reynolds (0-1).

Junior Ladies: We were defeated by St. Croan’s in the League Final on Saturday last. Final Score – St. Faithleach’s 5-05 St. Croan’s 8-07. Team: R. Hanley, S. Ormsby, A. Ormsby, C. Cleary, N. Egan, J. Melia, R. Costello, J. Geoghegan, A. Mc Loone (1-1), L. Mc Loone (0-2), E. Donlon, A. Lannon (1-1), C. Scally (3-1). Subs: R. Collier, C. Brennan.

U14: U14 Boys had a win over St. Croan’s on Thursday last. Team: M. O’Donnell, K. Nerney, C. Mangan, L. Parker, C. Kennelly, M. Gill, D. Kelly, D. Nerney, J. Donlon, D. Foley, G. Carberry, R. Guinan, S. Walsh. Subs: J. Gill, E. Tynan, S. Farrell.

Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament: The Club held its annual Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament on Saturday last on this the 30th year of the U14 7-a-side Tournament. Congrats to Killoe who were the Winners of the 2012 Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament on Saturday last and to Fenagh who were the Runners-up. Killoe Team: D. McCarty, G. Hughes, C. Moran, B. Hart, O. Bennett, S. Thompson, R. Moffett, N. Farrelly, J. Bracken, P. Kiernan. Fenagh Team: K. Mc Nabola, A. Doonan, O. Mc Loughlin, J. Mc Gilhenney, C. O’Rourke, C. Reynolds, R. O’Rourke, M. Keenan, T. Gilhenney, S. Mc Loughlin. Many thanks to all teams & their management who took part. Well done to all – Killoe, Fenagh, Kilbride, Clan na Gael, Annaduff, Rhode, Clara, Ballintubber, St. Faithleachs, Shannon Gaels, Shannonside All-stars & Oran. Minor Chairman, James Irwin, thanked the Organising Committee for their hard work in preparation & organisation of this event. Many thanks to Liam & Eamon Bolger for presentation of the Paddy Bolger Memorial Cup & Trophies to the Winners & Runners-Up. Thanks to the Referees, Stewart’s, Field Committee, the ladies for preparation of food/refreshments & all who helped out in many ways on the day.

Lotto:  Numbers drawn – 16, 18 21 and 27. There was no jackpot winner and the five €20 winners were – Rory Donnellan, Brian Donlon, Dympna Trautt, Thelma Clancy, and Diarmuid Thompson/Ollie Pender. The next draw takes place on Tuesday 22^nd May for a jackpot €6,000.

Cards: Every Tuesday in the Club House, 9.00pm. All welcome. Results of last week’s games – Winners, Mark/Noreen. Runners-up, Peggy/Phonsie. Last game – Sean/Seamus. Ticket Winners – Ronan, Michael, Frank & Ann.

Congratulations: To Alan Kenny who celebrated his 21st Birthday & Claire Connaughton who celebrated her 30th Birthday recently.

Community Games: Well done to all who took part in the Kilgefin Community Games, held at St. Faithleachs GAA Club Grounds on Sunday last.

Women’s Mini-Marathon: Your support would be greatly appreciated for our local ladies who are taking part in the Mini-Marathon in June to raise funds for the Development of the new Stand at St. Faithleachs GAA Club.

Longford Ladies on the Up

Congratulations to Longford Ladies Senior Football team who on Sunday last in Tullamore came from behind to beat a strong Limerick team in the Bord Gáis Energy League Final. It was a particularly great day for the ladies of the Rathcline Ladies club who had five of their players on the winning panel. All of our club ladies performed admirably and the day was made all the sweeter with the performance of our ladies and especially Claire Greene who was awarded Player of the Match. The five ladies representing our club on the panel were Claire Greene, Rathcline, Paula Kenny, Fermoyle, Sinead Farrell, Josephine Donlon, Clonfower and Lauren Farrell, Cashel.

The good news does not end there with 4 of the 14 Ladies on the Longford panel that are playing Kilkenny in the Leinster Final. This is a further acknowledgement of the progression in the club of Ladies football. Good luck to the girls and their teammates in the Leinster Final.

Defibrillator Training

Are you trained in the use of the defibrillator? Do you need to complete your refresher course? If yes, then you are asked to leave you name in with Martina or Bridgie O’Brien in the Corner Shop and a refresher course will be arranged.

Do you want to be trained in the use of the defibrillator? It is one of the most vital and worthwhile training you can have. If you are interested in being trained in the use of a defibrillator you are asked to leave your name in with Martina or Bridgie in the shop. There is always a need for more people to take this course and your support will be vital.

Death

The entire area was saddened to learn of the death on Tuesday last 1^st May at the Blackrock Clinic in Dublin of Mrs mary Dowling, Ballyleague. Mary was a native of Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath came to Ballyleague with her husband Brendan many years ago. Mary was a nurse by profession and served as a district nurse in Roscommon. Her beaming smile and warmth of welcome told the personality of Mary and she brought kindness, hope and may laughs to her patients as she cared for them. Her legacy will be long remembered by the many families that she called to during the course of her duty. Mary was also a great and keen Bridge player and was a popular figure at the bridge games locally. Fourteen years ago Mary was diagnosed with cancer and as was the way and will of Mary she did not let it disrupt her way of life. She dealt with her cross with the courage and strength that she gave to patients in previous years and with an enthusiasm that defied belief. Mary was an example and strength to everyone. Her remains reposed at Farrell’s funeral Home on Thursday before being removed to The Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague. Following her Funeral Mass on Friday her remains were laid to rest in Cloontuskert Cemetery. To her husband Brendan, daughters Breda and Ciara, sisters Peg, Kathleen and Rose, brother Joseph, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.

Lanesboro Bridge Club

There was great anticipation over the past two weeks as to the identity of the winner of the coveted President’s Prize presented by club President Mona O’Flaherty. The winner turned out to be a very popular figure in Una Lawlor. Runner-up was Katharine Harrison; third place was taken by Kathleen Hanley. The first session winner was Bernadette Gillen and the second session winner was Phil Chalmers. The club would like to show its appreciation to the two organisers, Gemma Douglas and Cyril Hussey who did a wonderful job.

The results of the competition held on Wednesday 2^nd May were N/S 1^st Frank and Frances Brennan, 2^nd Mona O’Flaherty and Bernadette Gillen and 3^rd Phil Chalmers and Cyril Hussey. E/W 1^st Mike Flynn & Mary Mc Gushin, 2^nd Una Clarke and Tom Feeney and 3^rd Brid Mc Dermott and Una Lawlor.

Death

One of our most recent arrivals to the parish passed away last week. Mickie Comerford, 1 Longford Road, a native of Tipperary, many years ago came to work with Lyons Meat Company in Longford. He had lived in Killashee for many years before recently arriving in Lanesboro where he became a popular figure. Mickie, like most Tipperary people had a keen interest and love of hurling. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Mickie’s remains were laid to rest in Clonbonny following his Funeral Mass in Killashee Church.

Lanesboro Library

Storytime with Frances continues in Lanesboro Library on Saturday week 19^th May from 12noon to 1pm. All are welcome.

Lanesboro’s Indoor Market

Have you been to the Friday Market yet? A large number of locally produced items as well as a great selection of goods are available. The market takes place from 11am to 1.30pm every Friday and it is a place well worth a visit if only to browse. The range of goods on sale are local home baking, local jams, free range eggs & mushrooms, gold, silver, gemstone and costume jewellery, goats milk beauty products, books, bric a brac & cd’s, Forever aloe vera products. John King (Healer and Angel Cards readings), fabulous hand-made cards and hand-made knitted scarfs/hats. There is also a range of dried flowers arrangements and handbags. Drumsna Garden Centre flower arrangements available. Free car parking to rear of building (beside the playground). Tea, Coffee and light snacks will also be available. Contact 087 3965568 for answers to queries.

Rathcline Ladies Clothes Collection

Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels and textiles including shoes, bags and belts and soft toys and books (novels).  If anyone has bags to get rid of please call Madaleine on 086 1500123.

Bus to Ladies Mini Marathon

The annual Ladies Mini Marathon will take place on Bank Holiday Monday 4^th June. As usual a bus will travel to the event from Lanesboro and if you would like to book a seat on the bus you should contact Pam Farrell any day after 6pm at 087-4146987. As seats are limited early booking is essential.

Lanesboro Community Games

Lanesboro Community Games will be holding the Area Athletics competition on Sunday 20^th May at 5.30pm. The late time has been set to accommodate those attending Longford’s opening game in the GAA championship. Last year we had 42 children represent Lanesboro in the Athletics County Finals and hope the same will be the case this year. There are many evens from sprint to distance running, and also many field events. We hope every child in the parish will come along.

Best of luck to our swimmers who will be taking part in the County Finals next Sunday 13th May. We are delighted this year to have 12 children taking part. For the first time, probably, we will have two swimming relay teams with both boys and girls U-13squad. All the swimmers are young so this will be for fun and participation. We hope all the children will enjoy what will be a very new experience for most of them. The group are: Con Casserly, Philip Chalmers, Mark Dowd, Evan Chalmers, Séadhna Ryan, Brian Casey and Dúileach Ryan, Orla Ryan, Aisling Farrell, Róisin Brennan, Hazel Johnson and Jane Dowd.

Two in a Row

Congratulations to the Fermoyle National School boys in retaining their title as Longford FAI school’s five-a-side champions last week. They will now go forward to participate in the Leinster Finals on this Wednesday 9^th May in Navan.

Lanesboro/Ballyleague Badminton Club

A huge congrats to club members Maura Duffy, Edel McDermott, Ann Duffy, Francis Casey and Stephen Herraty who won out their Grades in the Leinster Individually Graded Championships on Sunday 29th April last, in Baldoyle, Dublin. The club members represented Co. Longford at the Championship, fighting off counties Meath, Wexford and Laois to claim their titles. Maura and Edel are now G6 Leinster Ladies Champs, Frank and Stephen are G5 Leinster Men’s Champs and Ann Duffy was Runner-up in G5 Singles. A huge achievement by all concerned doing both Longford and the Midlands proud!!

Shannon Gaels Minor Club

Pride of place this week must go to the Under 16 panel who have qualified for the league final to be played in Ballinalee on this Wednesday at 7pm. We wish them luck and encourage everyone from within the club and beyond to go along and cheer the lads on to victory.

Well done to the Co. Minors who overcame Laois and especially Liam Connerton who scored the decisive goal – a habit that Liam has gotten into in recent games.

Congratulations to the County Longford Ladies and especially our own ladies, which played a huge part, in the winning of the league final on Sunday last in Tullamore.

The Under 6 and 10 training kicks off this Thursday evening from 7 to 8pm in Clonbonny.

The Under 8’s play in a blitz in Killoe this Wednesday.

Training for all Under 12 players takes place in Clonbonny every Saturday from 11 to 12.

The Under 13’s will play another round this coming Monday night.

The Under 14 team will play away from home this Thursday. It is expected that the players will show a marked improvement to their game as they are much better players than they are presently showing. Go for it lads!

The minors continue their get together every Thursday evening. The lads are showing remarkable aptitude but there are a few still not making it to training and parents and attending players are asked to encourage these lads to the pitch.

Keep Lanesboro Tidy

The committee would like to thank you to all who contributed to last week’s clean up in the town. The next date for the town clean-up is Friday next 11th May at 7pm. You are asked to meet at the parish hall and bring any cleaning equipment you can. The judging for the Tidy Towns start the end of May so no is the time to get the extra work completed. The committee looks forward to any time you can contribute.

Lough Ree Golfing Society

The first outing for 2012 is to Roscommon Golf Course this Saturday, May 4 at 11 am.

Following our AGM on 24 March 2012 the following is the committee for 2012:

Captain: Liam Rosemond; Secretary: Frank Conmy; Treasurer: Colm Dardis;

Committee members: Sean Brennan and Brendan Whitty.

Please contact any of the committee or text 0879730611 should you wish to join us.

Ladybird Shop

Well done to all the young artists who entered the ‘paint a ladybird’ competition. All the paintings will be on display in the shop window until Saturday next 12^th May.

Rathcline GAA

Congratulations to the Rathcline contingent of Paula Kenny, Claire Greene, Lauren Farrell, Josephine Donlon and Sinead Farrell and the rest of the Longford Ladies on their excellent National League triumph against Limerick last Sunday.

Congratulations also to Liam Connerton and the Longford minor footballers on their recent three points win against Laois. Liam made the difference, coming off the bench to score the decisive goal.

Our senior team’s next task is at home to Fr. Manning Gaels in the league on Saturday at 7pm. Please support.

Finally, good luck to Western Gaels Under 16 team who play Colmcille in the Div. 2 League Final this evening, Wednesday, in Maguire Park, Ballinalee.

Rathcline Ladies GAA

Big congratulations must go to Claire Greene, Paula Kenny, Lauren Farrell, Sinead Farrell and Jo Donlon and the Longford Ladies Team on defeating a tough Limerick side in the All-Ireland National League Final in Tullamore on Sunday last. The girls really rose to the occasion on the day and it’s a credit to the girls for all their commitment with the County Team. Congratulations to Claire Greene on receiving Player of the Match.

The U14 girls had a good win against Clonguish Monday evening last and continued their winning ways with a great win over Carrickedmond on Monday morning. The girls are going very well with this being their third win.

The U16 girls were in hard luck last Thursday evening against a very strong Carrickedmond team.

On Friday night last the senior ladies were out in Clonbonny in the Gold Cup competition against the Killoe Ladies team. It was a very tough game but the Rathcline ladies played a great game to overcome the stern challenge of a strong Killoe side by a point. The next game in the senior league is next weekend against Slashers time to be decided.

Best of luck to the Western Gaels U16 team in the final on Wednesday evening at 7 in Ballinalee.

St. Faithleach’s GAA

O’Rourke Cup: Seniors play against Western Gaels on Sunday next, see fixtures for details.

Juniors: The lads had a win over Clan na Gael on Friday last. Final Score – St. Faithleachs 1-18 Clan na Gael 2-5. Team: S. Connor, P. Flynn, R. Cox, J. Walsh, J. Tarmey(0-1), B. Scally(0-1), D. Harrison(0-2), J. Quigley(0-1), C. Gunn(0-2), K. Farrell(0-2), A. Dooney(0-2), A. Kenny(0-2), D. Rooney(0-3), P. Reynolds(1-1), B. Hussey(0-1). Subs: P. Trautt, M. Neilan, S. Garvey.

U16 Boys were defeated Elphin on Friday last. Final Score – St. Faithleachs 3-09 Elphin 3-19. Team: E. Farrell, J. Irwin, L. Parker, J. Sweeney, J. Farrell, D. Barry, D. Kelly (0-1), M. Cox (0-1), D. Foley (1-1), S. Phillips (0-1), C. Gannon (0-1), J. Hussey (2-0), S. Walsh (0-3). Subs: J. Kelly (0-1), M. Gill, R. Guinan, J. Donlon.

U14 Boys had a win over St. Aidans on Monday last. Team: M. O’Donnell, K. Nerney, C. Mangan, M. Gill, L. Parker, G. Carberry, D. Kelly, C. Kennelly, E. Tynan, D. Nerney, S. Walsh, J. Gill, D. Foley. Subs: J. Donlon, R. Guinan, S. Farrell.

Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament: The Annual U14 Paddy Bolger Memorial Tournament takes place this coming Saturday, 12th May at St. Faithleachs GAA Club, commencing at 11.00am.

Cards: Every Tuesday in the clubhouse at 9.00pm. All welcome. The results of last week’s games are – joint winners, Mark/Noreen & Michael/Sean. Last game, Ann/Michael. Ticket winners were – Michael, Ann, Joe and James.

Sympathy: The Club extends deepest sympathy to the Dowling Family, Ballyleague, on the death of Mary Dowling.

Congratulations: To all the children of the Parish who made their First Holy Communion & Confirmations last week.

Community Games: Kilgefin Community Games will be held at St. Faithleachs GAA Club Grounds on Sunday next, 13th May.

Women’s Mini-Marathon: Your support would be greatly appreciated for our local ladies who are taking part in the Mini-Marathon in June to raise funds for the Development of the new Stand at St. Faithleachs GAA Club.

Lanesboro Pike Angling Club

Lanesboro Pike Angling on Sunday 29th April we held our Michael Casey Perpetual Trophy competition on Lough Ree. 8 boats took part in what were difficult conditions. The fishing was not great due to the exceptionally strong winds, which made fishing difficult 1st prize of €150 and the Michael Casey trophy went to Padraic Corcoran with a fish weighing 7lb 02 oz. 2nd prize of €100 went to Ciara Corcoran fish 6lb 04oz. 3rd prize of €80 went to Michael Galvin with a fish of 6lb 2oz 4th prize of €60 Cathal Galvin with a fish of 6lb We would to thank all the anglers who braved the elements on the day. We also held a draw for our non-fishing members and the winners were David Rhatigan Hughie Smyth Pauline Casey and Paul Farrell, each winner receiving €25. We would also like to mention that on May 13th that the Camlin club is having a competition in Lanesboro. This competition is sponsored by Denniston’s fishing tackle shop in Longford. This competition has a guaranteed prize fund of €1200. Entry fee is €50 per boat and fishing is from 11am – 5pm.

Lough Ree Athletic Club

The Track & Field season for 2012 began on Saturday last in Athlone with the Roscommon County Championships for the Under 9 to Uner11 age groups. Quite a few from the club travelled and the following are the results. County Champions for 2012 are:- Bronagh Kiely Under 9 Long Jump, Ella Hogan Under 9 Ball Throw, Áine Kiely Under 10 500m, Róisin Brennan Under 10 Long Jump and Cait Kiely Under 11 Ball Throw. Winners of silver

medals were: – Jamie Hagan Under 9 Ball Throw and Louise Costello Under 10 500m and Long Jump. Bronze medal winners were:- Jamie Hagan Under 9 300m, Caoilinn Flood Under 10 500m, Róisin Brennan Under 10 Ball Throw, Seadhna Ryan Under 11 600m and Áine Kiely Under 10 60m and Long Jump.

If there was a family award it would surely have been won by the Kiely family. To use racing terminology, they were the “stable in form”. Well done to all the medal winners and indeed to all that took part that made it a wonderful day for the club.

This coming Thursday 10^th May, the championships for the Under 12 and upwards will continue at the same venue from 7pm.

Secondary Schools – The Connaught Regionals took place in Sligo during the past week. As of yet there are no results to hand, if the Community college had any qualifiers for the Connaught Finals.

Class of 1982

The past pupils of the Convent of Mercy Lanesboro are holding their 30th class reunion in St. Faithleachs clubhouse on Saturday 19th May. The organising committee has been endeavouring to contact everyone from that class and if you have not being contacted yet can you contact Carmel Kiernan (Mc Loone) or just go along on the night for 8pm on the night. It promises to be another fantastic night for the students of 1982.

First Friday comes round so Fast

Yes, once again the Lanesboro Social Services Whist Drive comes round this Friday night 4th May in St. Mary’s Hall at 8.30. A wonderful night is assured for those that attend and this Friday night is a special ‘bring a friend’ night and introduce them to a great night of card playing. Your support is vital to the tremendous work of the Lanesboro Social Service and as you know this is a tremendous time of need for so many and you constant support in attending the Whist Drive and also your generous donations to the committee is a huge benefit to the committee in their support of so many.

Death

It was great sadness we learned of the death at Roscommon County Hospital on Tuesday 17th April following a short of illness of Theresa Barlow, Cloontuskert. Theresa was a gentle lady with a warm and kind nature. She was a nurse by profession and retired home a number of years back. The nature of the lady endeared her to everyone that she became acquainted with and indeed it made her highly thought of by her patients. Her warm friendly and welcoming smile will live with us all and it will be sadly missed as we travel the road and pass her Cloontuskert home. Her remains reposed at Smyth’s Funeral Home, Roscommon before her removal to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague. Following her Funeral Mass burial took  place in her native Cloontuskert. To her sister Sr. Anthony, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, nehews, nieces, relatives and friends we extend our sincere sympathy.

Lanesboro’s Indoor Market

Have you been to the Friday Market yet? A large number of locally produced items as well as a great selection of goods are available. The market takes place from 11am to 1.30pm every Friday and it is a place well worth a visit if only to browse. The range of goods on sale are local home baking, local jams, free range eggs & mushrooms, gold, silver, gemstone and costume jewellery, goats milk beauty products, books, bric a brac & cd’s, Forever aloe vera products. John King (Healer and Angel Cards readings), fabulous hand-made cards and hand-made knitted scarfs/hats. There is also a range of dried flowers arrangements and handbags. Drumsna Garden Centre flower arrangements available. Free car parking to rear of building (beside the playground). Tea, Coffee and light snacks will also be available. Contact 087 3965568 for answers to queries. Rathcline Ladies Clothes Collection Please donate all your clean unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels and textiles including shoes, bags and belts and soft toys and books (novels).  If anyone has bags to get rid of please call Madaleine on 086 1500123.

Bat Talk and Walk

The next outing for the Longford Westmeath Wildlife Trust will take place in Ballymahon on Thursday week 3rd May. It will be a bat talk and walk by Dr. Tina Aughney of Bat Conservation Ireland.  It will begin with a talk at the library in Ballymahon at 7:30pm followed by a bat walk at dusk so that the group can be there to catch the bats emerging. The trust welcomes everyone that has an interest in wildlife and looks forward to a very enjoyable evening.

Bus to Ladies Mini Marathon

The annual Ladies Mini Marathon will take place on Bank Holiday Monday 4th June. As usual a bus will travel to the event from Lanesboro and if you would like to book a seat on the bus you should contact Pam Farrell any day after 6pm at 087-4146987. As seats are limited early booking is essential.

Boro Celtic wins Cup Final

Not since 1999 has Boro Celtic taken home silverware of any kind despite many close losses but the team travelled with great confidence to Mullingar on Saturday last for the final of the Combined Counties Division Cup Final. This competition pits all the Saturday teams from all the other counties against each other and a victory in this competition would rank as the greatest victory in the history of the club. The final took take place in the Mullingar Town grounds, Dalton Park, Mullingar on Saturday last28th April. A great number travelled to Mullingar to support the Boro players and their support was well rewarded by a wonderful performance by a very determined Boro side. Boro were quick out of the blocks from the very start and after two minutes Henry Kenny struck to put them one nil ahead. They maintained the lead until the hour mark when Camlin Utd got back into the game when they scored to make the scoreline 1-1. It was pressure time for Boro and they rose to the occasion and with about 10 minutes to go Henry Kenny struck his and Boro’s second goal, a goal that proved to be the deciding score. This victory was great credit to the Boro Celtic but mostly to two men that have given so much time and energy to the team and the club, team manager Aaron Wyse and assistant manager Jeaffrey Mc Gann. We congratulate the two lads and the team on this wonderful victory.

All Ireland Under 21 Final

All roads lead to Tullamore on Sunday next for the All Ireland Under 21 Final where Roscommon take on Dublin at 2pm. We wish Ciaran Murtagh son of Andy and Breda Murtagh, and his teammates the very best of luck and look forward to them returning an All-Ireland title to Roscommon and the St. Faithleach’s club.

A Cure for Nerves

Rathcline Drama Group presents ‘A cure for nerves’ in St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Sunday night 27th May. The proceeds of the play will go towards the restoration project at St. Mary’s Church. The show will commence at 8.30pm and there will be a number of  supporting acts. Tickets are priced at €10 and can be purchased in O’Brien’s.

Shannon Gaels Minor Club bask in Victors Success – Saturday night last proved to be another outstanding night for the club with the successful hosting of the play Victor’s Dung. The club would like to thank the Moth Theatre group for their tremendous performance. The play was preceded by the members of our own club displaying an array of excellent musical skill and talents. Firstly, the group of Gary Tobin, Tracy Tobin, Sinead Ginty and Sean Mc Grath entertained the audience both individually and as a group. Then came a wonderful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah by the very young and excellent Aisling Casey. The club is rightly proud of you all and thanks you. Congratulations to the Longford senior team on their great win over Wexford in the League Final on Saturday in Croke Park. This Wednesday evening at 7pm in Pearse Park the county minors will takes on Laois in the Leinster Championship. We urge all club members and supporters to go along and support the team. We wish Liam Connerton and Eoin Sorohan and their teammates the best of luck. We also wish team trainer Gareth Johnston the very best of luck. The Under 10 blitz will take place in Ballymahon on this Wednesday; The under 12s will train on Sunday next in Clonbonny; The Under 13s will play Sean Connolly’s on Monday next in Clonbonny; The Under 14s are going very well at the moment and on Thursday next play St. Dominick’s in Clonbonny at 7.30pm. The Under 16 team plays Southern Gael in Cashel on this Wednesday in the League semi-final at 7pm. The Minors play Southern Gaels on Sunday in the Minor League in Cashel at 12.30pm. Congratulations to Cronan Flood, son of Jimmy and Bridget Flood, Lehery who was selected to play in the Primary Schools mini sevens at half time of the game in Croke Park. It is a great honour for Cronan, his family and his Fermoyle Primary School.

Lough Ree Golfing Society

The first outing for 2012 is to Roscommon Golf Course this Saturday, May 4 at 11 am. Following our AGM on 24 March 2012 the following is the committee for 2012: Captain: Liam Rosemond; Secretary: Frank Conmy; Treasurer: Colm Dardis; Committee members: Sean Brennan and Brendan Whitty. Please contact any of the committee or text 0879730611 should you wish to join us.

Lamb Festival

The huge popular Roscommon Lamb Festival commences this Wednesday and continues until Monday 7th May in Roscommon town. This festival has been a huge success since its inception a few years ago. There are a host of events taking place every day and there is no doubt that it is worth a visit. Over 30 different event will take place over the festival and some of the events  includes Real Roscommon Food event with Celebrity Chef Neven Maguire and talks from Patrick Wall & Pat Lalor on Friday 4th May Brazilian Irish BBQ – Saturday 5th May – Family Brazilian BBQ with Irish Lamb Sheep Shearing World Record Attempt – Sunday 6th May at 3pm in Loughnaneane Park Family Fun Sunday – in Loughnaneane Park and Market Square with a jam packed schedule. Wool Craft Village – with sheep shearing, wool spinning, weaving, felt making, knitting, dyeing, interactive weaving project and more International Sheepdog Trials with competitors from Ireland, Germany, Sweden, Hungary, Canada and the UK. Farmer’s Market with cooking and butchering demonstrations, fresh local produce, entertainment and more. Sporting events including cycling, kayaking and the Carer’s Marathon. Fishing Challenge Big 2 day event on the River Suck with anglers from all over Ireland Ladybird Shop The Ladybird shop welcomes donations of clothes, linen, footwear, bric-a-brac, bags, DVDs, books, toys jewellery and unwanted gifts and soft furniture.  You are invited to bring to the shop Tuesday to Saturday between 10am and 5pm and help support local national schools.

Lough Ree Athletic Club

Training continues on the track on Tuesdays at 7.00pm.  Competition season has now started with the Roscommon Championships for the Under 9 (born 2004), Under 10 (born 2003) and Under 11 (born 2002) Age Groups on the Track at AIT, Athlone on Saturday next 5th May starting at 11.00am.  All competitors are welcome and you can’t say you were not invited.  Please note that the Roscommon Championship is the qualifier for the Connaught Championship, which turns into a team event with two athletes on each team. Congratulations to Ciarán Ó Catháin who was appointed President of Athletics Ireland at the National Congress in Cavan on Saturday last 28th April. Ciaran is a member of the Roscommon County Board of and also President of Athlone Institute of Technology.  Lough Ree Athletic Club would like to offer condolences to Chairman Fabian Walsh on the recent death of his brother Miko, in Dublin.

First Prize Winner

Congratulations to Fermoyle Primary School student Connell Kennelly on winning first prize in the primary competition in the Titanic Centenary completion organized by Longford County Library, Heritage and Archives Services.

Rathcline GAA

Congratulations to our Reserve League on continuing their one hundred per-cent record with a convincing 5-9 to 0-10 win over Cashel. The next game is away to St. Patrick’s, Ardagh on the 19th of May. Congratulations also to the Longford Senior footballers on their fantastic victory against Wexford in Croke Park on Saturday last. Finally, on Saturday, the senior team plays St. Columba’s – Mullinalaghta in the Laurels at 7:00pm. St. Faithleach’s GAA O’Rourke Cup: We drew with Castlerea on Friday last. Final Score – St. Faithleachs 2-08 Castlerea 1-11. Team: B. Carberry, R. Cox, A. McCormack, K. Brennan, P. Wallace, C. McCormack(0-1), B. Scally(0-1), M. Reynolds(0-1), D. Murray, J. Quigley, E. Kenny(0-1), D. Harrison, H. Kenny, B. Reynolds, D. Rooney(2-4) Subs: A. Dooney, D. Thompson. H. Kenny, A. Dooney, D. McCormack. Next game against Padraig Pearses on Monday next at home, see fixtures list for details. Junior Ladies: Our Junior Ladies had a win over St. Croan’s on Saturday last. Final Score – St. Faithleachs 1-09 St. Croan’s 2-05. Team: R. Hanly, A. Ormsby (0-1), S. Ormsby (0-1), N. Egan, R. Costello, J. Geoghegan (0-2), A. Mc Loone (0-1), E. Hegarty, E. Donlon (1-0), M. Corcoran(0-1), L. Mc Loone(0-2). Subs: A. Nerney, K. Murphy (0-1). Next weekend our juniors play in the semi-final, see fixtures for details. Minor: Our minors were defeated by Eire Óg on Sunday last. Team: C. Farrell, M. Cox, J. Irwin, J. Farrell, J. Walsh, D. Barry, C. Gunn, D. Gibbons, J. Hussey, K. Farrell, J. Sweeney, S. Phillips, C. Gannon. Sub: J. Kelly. U12 Girls: Our U12 girls played St. Brigids at home on Wednesday evening last. Despite a wet & windy evening the girls came away with a great win.  Team: C. Curley, L. O’Donnell, M. Kelly, L. Parker, C. Hussey, S. Hoare, L. Parker, J. Banahan(0-1), S. Scally(1-0), K. Byrne, J. Brennan, E. Irwin(2-1), C. Kelly, O. Irwin. The girls were out again on Saturday evening in Tarmonbarry.  They played St. Barry’s and all the girls worked very hard to record another good win. Team: C. Curley, C. Hussey, M. Kelly, C. Kelly, S. Fallon, S. Hoare, L. Parker, J. Banahan(1-0), S. Scally(1-2) O. Costello, K. Byrne, J. Brennan, L. O’Donnell, E. Irwin(2-2), L. Parker, O. Irwin. Next game is against Kilbride on Wednesday, in Kilbride. Lotto: The numbers drawn were – 1, 3, 28 and 30. There was no jackpot winner and the five €20 winners were- Evelyn Clarke, Longford. Sean/Seamus c/o cards. Mary Blaine, Longford. Tommy Kelly, Cloonadra. Mick O’Donnell, Dublin. The next draw takes place on Tuesday 8th May for a jackpot of €5,900. Cards: Every Tuesday in the Club House, 9.00pm. All welcome. Results of last week’s games – Winners, PJ/Padraig. Runners-up, Noreen/Mark. Last game, James/Martin. Ticket winners – Tom, Mark, Kathleen, Tom. Sympathy: The club extends deepest sympathy to the Donlon Family, Aughaloughan, Lanesboro, on the death of Jim Donlon. To his wife Vera, son Padraig, daughters Theresa & Nuala, sister Mary, extended relatives, family & friends. Best of Luck: To Ciaran Murtagh, along with the Roscommon U21 team in the Cadbury GAA U21 Football Championship All-Ireland Final against Dublin in Tullamore on Sunday next 6th May.

Lanesboro Pike Angling On Sunday 29th April we held our Michael Casey perpetual trophy competition on Lough Ree. 8 boats took. The fishing was not great due to the exceptionally strong winds, which made fishing difficult 1st prize of €150 and the Michael Casey trophy went to Padraic Corcoran with a fish weighing 7lb 02 oz. 2nd prize of €100 went to Ciara Corcoran fish 6lb 04oz. 3rd prize of €80 went to Michael Galvin with a fish of 6lb 2oz 4th prize of €60 Cathal Galvin with a fish of 6lb We would to thank all the anglers who braved the elements on the day.  We also held a draw for our non-fishing members and the winners were  David Rhatigan Hughie Smyth Pauline Casey and Paul Farrell. Each winner receiving €25. We would also like to mention that on May 13th that the Camlin club is having a competition in Lanesboro. This competition is sponsored by Denniston’s fishing tackle shop in Longford. This competition has a guaranteed prize fund of €1200. Entry fee is €50 per boat and fishing is from 11am – 5pm.

Rathcline Ladies GAA Our U14 girls had a win over Ballymore last Monday 23rd April with a final score of 4-4 to 3-3.  The U16s were narrowly defeated by Clonguish with final score 7-4 to 5-6. The senior ladies played round 4 of the league against St. Helens Drumlish in Drumlish on Sunday last and were successful with a final score of 5-11 to 11 points.  Well done to all the girls last week.  Best of luck to the Longford Ladies team who play in the All-Ireland League Final on Sunday next in Tullamore at 12 noon.  Best wishes go to our own Senior Ladies who play with the County Paula Kenny, Sinead Farrell, Lauren Farrell, Claire Greene and Jo Donlon.  This week the U16s play a home game against Carrickedmond on Thursday evening at 7p.m and the senior team are playing in the Gold Cup against Killoe on Friday night in Clonbonny at 7.30pm

Lanesboro Triathlon Club Register for Race 2012:

Following on from the success of our club triathlon race 2011, the Lanesboro Triathlon Club shall be hosting the ‘Two Provinces Sprint Triathlon in association with Audi Athlone at Michael Moore Car Sales’ on Sat 14th July 2012. We are extremely delighted to announce that Audi Athlone at Michael Moore Car Sales, shall be the main sponsor of our 2012 triathlon race. The race shall consist of a 750m swim in the River Shannon, followed by a 20k bike ride over a flat course and will finish over a 5k fast run course. Registration is now OPEN via our club website www.trilanesboro.com. You can submit an individual entry or register as part of a relay team. It promises to be a great day’s enjoyment, so be sure to sign up fast. Training: Run sessions continue on the track every Wed evening at 8pm, and Sliabh Ban on Sun mornings at 9a.m. Club cycle every Sat morning leaving Lanesboro church at 10am. Please keep an eye on our club website www.trilanesboro.com or our Facebook page ‘trilanesboro’ for further info & updates. Monday night pool sessions with the Roscommon Masters are now finished until next season, so hopefully it will soon be warm enough to get back into open water swimming. Best of luck: Good luck to all members heading to Lough Key Forest Park on Sunday next 6th May to take part in the Boyle Charity Duathlon. The race consists of a 5km run – 20km cycle – 2.5km run, and will begin at 12 midday. It is great to see such large numbers taking part from the club. Well done:  Congrats to Siobhán Mimnagh & Rachel Burke who put in great performances in the Clonown 10k run on Sunday last – well done girls.

On my notes I wrote of the announcement of Ciaran Mullooly being recipient of Longford Person of the Year by the Dublin Association. Year on year this is a wonderful night for all Longford People and a night that should not be missed – especially this year when one of our own is being honoured.
If you require tickets for the night you can contact me at the shop or phone 086-2460840.

Thanks,

Joe

St. Patrick’s
Day Parade

All
is now set for our very own St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Following huge time and
effort by the hard working committee in the preparation and the clubs,
organisations and businesses the stage is set  for another tremendous St/ Patrick’s Day
parade in Ballyleague and Lanesboro. The most vital part of the organisation to
make it the best yet are the stewards that will man and patrol the event and
ensure that everything runs smoothly on Saturday. If you have not already
volunteered your services then it is not too late to be part of one of the best
events in Ballyleague and Lanesboro. If you can be part of the day contact
Teresa Costello or Freda Connaughton. The parade will start from St. Faithleach’s
club grounds at 2.30pm and it will wind its way through Ballyleague and
Lanesboro right up to the Community College where refreshments will be served
for all participants.

There
will be prizes for Best Window, Best Junior Float, Best Club Float, Best Business
Float, Overall Float and Most Original Float.

Come
along and enjoy a wonderful day in Lanesboro and no matter how bad the troubles
of the country are affecting us there can be nothing better than a celebration
among locals and friends in your own native area. Activities on the day will be
face painting, pig roasting and live music by our own local and hugely popular
group Actin da Magot.

I
expect that every building along the route will make the special effort in
decorating their house and business which will add greatly to the atmosphere of
the day.

Tickets
are now on sale to help defray the cost of organising the parade and your
support would be greatly appreciated. Tickets, €2 each or book of 3 for €5, are
on sale in O’Brien’s and throughout the area and perhaps this might be your
lucky day when you purchase your tickets and win some of the €1000 prize money.

Lanesboro
Primary School Enrolment

Enrolment
for September 2012 will be held in Lanesboro Primary School on Friday week 23^rd
March at 1pm. Parents and their children are invited to call to the school
around this time.

Daffodil Day

The
annual Coffee Morning will be held on Friday 23^rd March in the Co-Op
from 11am to 1pm. You are invited to call in for a cuppa and a chat and give
your usual generous support for this very worthy cause.

Cloontuskert –
The Abbey

The
new initiative for Cloontuskert – The Abbey, to gather memories, stories and
photographs has really taken off as can be seen on Facebook. The momentum will
gain greater speed this coming week when the main man Padraic Best will be in
the area gathering as much information as possible. It should be a mighty
weekend, I am sure Padraic will no doubt organise a get together to get as many
stories and tales of time past.

If
you have information you can send it to Padraic at the website set up for this
initiative http://www.memoriesofhome.me/.  Gerry and
Martina Trautt are helping assemble all old pictures, memorabilia and writings
in relation to the area.

Lough Ree Golfing Society

Lough Ree
Golfing Society is kicking off 2012 with a scramble in Strokestown Golf Club on
Saturday week 24^th March at 10.30am. Tea and scones will be served
in the clubhouse at 10.30am where the teams for the scramble will be selected
and the teams will then tee off at 11am.

Afterwards salad
and soup will be served in the clubhouse followed by the prize giving and the
AGM. It is hoped that all members can attend this important meeting to elect
the new committee for 2012 and plan the outings for the coming year.

As usual you are
asked to text 087-9730611 to confirm attendance.

The society
welcomes both young and old golfers from the Lanesboro Ballyleague area to the
society. This is a local society with all local members and it would be a great
achievement to have all past and present residents of our area coming together
a great day out and enjoying present and past tales.

New Pilates Course

Bonnies Pilates
continues with a new course starting on Thursday 22^nd March in St.
Mary’s Parish Hall Lanesboro. All you need to bring is a mat. If you block book
you will receive a discount. For further information phone bonnie 087-2238237.

Remembering Alison this Sunday

The
Rathcline Ladies GAA will remember the passing of one of their and the county’s
finest footballers Alison Smyth in the only way that is fitting to such a fine
footballer. Alison also played with Garrycastle, Athlone for a short while and
on Sunday next 18^th March both teams will honour Alison when they
will play each other in a memorial match. The club invites everyone to go along
and join the celebration of the life of a very special lady Alison Smyth. The
can be no better way of both clubs to recognise her memory than by the coming
together for this match. The throw in for the game will be 5.30pm. There will
be refreshments in the clubhouse following the game. We hope the Garrycastle
senior men footballers will the previous day be crowned All Ireland club
champions and the Andy Merrigan Cup will pay a visit to Clonbonny.

The
proceeds of the game will go towards the Sudden Adult Death Syndrome unit in
the Mater Hospital. The Mater Hospital raises
much needed funds for the Mater Hospitals Family Heart Screening Clinic, where
relatives of loved ones, who have died from SADS (Sudden Adult Death Syndrome)
or survived a Sudden Cardiac Arrest, can be screened for undiagnosed Heart
Conditions.

This is a
wonderful gesture as it will give hope in heart and mind to everyone that needs
to can avail of the wonderful service that the Mater provides. Your support
will definitely be a great help in the life of others.

Ulster Bank at Market

Staff of the
Ulster Bank will be in attendance at the Indoor Market on this Friday 16^th
March from 11am to 2pm.

Fermoyle NS Table Quiz

Fermoyle National
School will host a Table Quiz in the Pier Inn, Lisnacusha, on Saturday next St.
Patrick’s night 17^th March. It promises to be a wonderful night of
knowledge and fun and a night not to be missed. The first question will be
asked from the quizmaster at 9pm.

Rathcline
GAA call for old Photographs

If you have old photographs going back
the years then Rathcline would like to hear from you. The club is seeking to
set up a history of the club in pictures and if you have any photographs the
club will copy them and return you the originals. There surely are many houses
not only in the parish but far and wide that have some photographs of times in
the Rathcline club. If you can help please do by contact Liam or Pat Connerton
or Cathal Chapman.

Roscommon
‘Living Links’

In the Roscommon region, a number of
trained individuals are available to offer confidential, practical support and
information to families who have experienced death by suicide. You are invited
to contact ‘Living Links’ support coordinator at 086-0311888 and if this number
is busy the answering machine will take your message. You are asked to leave
your first name and telephone number and a coordinator will return your call as
soon as possible.

St. John’s Candles.

Already
there has been a great uptake on the sales of the commemorative candle with an
imprint of St. John’s Church emblazoned on the candle; the committee would like
to thank everyone that has responded so positively. They can be bought at €7 in
O’Brien’s, Gareth Johnston’s Health Bank or from any member of the committee.

This
is a very special year for the congregation of St. John’s Church as they
celebrate 150 year of their church on the weekend 20^th April where a
number of events will take place throughout the weekend. The committee is still
seeking any memorabilia, artefacts or old photographs relating to St. John’s church.
There has been an excellent response to this call and it is great to see such a
great response.  If you have any material
relating to the Church please contact Philip Mc Garry, Gardenstown or Tora
Crooke, The Green or any member of the congregation.

Sympathy

We
would like to extend our sincere sympathy to Mary and Pat Joe Fallon and
family, Ballinwooley, on the death of Mary’s sister Eileen Farrell, Ballymore,
Co. Westmeath recently.

Shannon Gaels

The
club would like to congratulate all the young boys and girls that made their
confirmation on Friday last.

The
club will take part in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and we urge everyone
connected to the club as a member or supporter to come out and celebrate.

Commiserations
to Tracy Tobin who despite a great performance did not make it to the Leinster
Scór final.

Victor’s
Dung, a play by the Mot Theatre group will bring their play to St. Mary’s Hall,
Lanesboro on Saturday 28^th April. This play has been receiving
tremendous reviews on its current run and the club is very privileged to be
able to host this play. Tickets will soon be on sale in O’Brien’s.

The
Under 14 panel had their first training session on Sunday last and will
continue with training or match on Sunday next.

The
Under 16 team played Southern Gaels on Monday evening and will play again on
Sunday next 18^th March in Dunbeggan Park, Stonepark when they take
on Granard/Ballymore at 12.30pm.

The
minor team will train again on Sunday next at 11am and the following Saturday 24^th
March they travel to Dromard to Play St. Francis at 5pm when the Minor League
resumes.

St. Faithleach’s GAA

U16 Girls: Our U16 Girls played their 1st
Championship game, away to St. Dominic’s on Sunday last. Final Score – St.
Faithleachs 8-4 St. Dominic’s 4-8. Team: L. Hoare, N. Carty, E. Kenny, A.
Curley, M. Banahan, N. Scally, C. Brennan, J. Geoghegan (1-1), R. Costello, R.
Banahan (1-1), E. Hegarty (0-2), N. Parker, T. Nerney, K. Murphy (5-0), N.
Hegarty (1-0). Subs: L. Cox, J. Farrell, K. Browne.

Upcoming Events:  Colm Mulligan
plays in the clubhouse this coming Friday 16th March. St. Patricks Day Parade -
Once again St. Faithleachs GAA club will be having a float in the
Lanesboro/Ballyleague St. Patricks Day Parade. We welcome all adults &
children to come along on the day. Music in the clubhouse following the Parade
from 7.00-9.00pm.

Cards: Every Tuesday in the Club House,
9.00pm. All welcome. Results of last week’s games: Winners on 11 games –
Freda/Gemma. Joint 2nd – Mark/Noreen & Tom/Brendan. Last game – PJ/Paddy.
Ticket winners – James, Tom, Brendan, James & Tom.

Women’s Mini-Marathon: Calling all the ladies who would
be interested in taking part in the Mini-Marathon in June to raise funds for
the Development of the new Stand @ St. Faithleachs GAA Club. Your efforts &
support would be greatly appreciated.

Club Membership: 2012 Membership now overdue. Adult
€40, Student €20, Family €80.

Sympathy: The Club extends deepest sympathy to
the Collins Family on the death of P.J. Collins, Aughamuck, Kilrooskey. To his
brother Peter (Peadar), Sisters Eileen & Bernadette, extended family,
relatives & friends. The Club extends deepest sympathy to Pat Joe &
Mary Fallon and Family, Ballinwooley, on the death of Mary’s sister, Eileen
Farrell, Ballymore, Co. Westmeath.

50th Celebrations: 2012 brings a very important year for
St. Faithleachs GAA Club as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary. This is an
exciting time for the Club & Parish. In an effort to complete a history of
the past 50 years of the club we are looking for your help. There are many
photographs & artefact from down through the years which we would dearly
love to see. If you, or anyone you know may be in possession of such items,
please contact a member of the committee or email us at stfaithleachgaa@gmail.com.

Lough Ree 2000 Bridge Club

The
results of the competition held on Monday 5^th March are: 1^st
Nancy Dolan and Eileen Kelly, 2^nd Phil Chalmers and Fiona Gillen, 3^rd
Mae Casey and Margaret Gillen and 4^th Kathleen Kelly and Mike Flynn.
Gross winners Mark and Peggy Crehan. The club would like to extend best wishes
to Mary Mulvihill and Des watts for good health in the future.

Rathcline GAA

Congratulations
to the Reserve League team on getting the year off to a fine start with a one
point win over Granard in the first game of the year. The next game is against
Ballymahon at 12.30pm in Clonbonny on St Patricks Day. Support would be greatly
appreciated.

The
Annual Longford GAA Race Day at Punchestown Racecourse will take place on
Wednesday, 25^th April this year. Anybody interested in attending can
contact Liam Connerton, Albert Cooney or Chris Cullen.

Finally,
the club are currently in the process of compiling a number of old photographs
to display on the Clubhouse walls. If anybody has any old images of past events
or people who were connected with the club (in any capacity), the club would
greatly appreciate the opportunity to borrow these photographs to scan and hang
on the walls. Rathcline GAA has a fantastic history and tradition, and it would
be great to display that history for all to see.