Lanesboro Ballyleague
Lanesboro Community College scoops top prize at the ECO-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards finals.
In 2017 the YEA National Showcase and Ceremony was held on May 23rd in the Round Room of the Mansion House in Dublin and featured 84 finalists from across the island of Ireland and saw young people address the present and future challenges of climate change with a range of environmental action projects.
Lanesboro Community College were proud to be there to present their project entitled” The Winds of Change: Attitudes towards wind power in our community”. The team that put this fascinating study together were all second years and were part of a group of junior students who worked hard at designing and running various environmental campaigns in our community. They were aware of the development of large wind farms in their area over the last few years and noted that there was an intensive debate about the benefits and drawbacks of such a large infrastructural project. With their teacher, Mr Lyons they set out to examine the attitudes towards wind farms but also to generate a discussion around the importance of wind generated electricity as we grapple with rising CO2 emissions and global warming. An interesting element of this project was analysing the ‘real time’ production of wind generated electricity using the “Smart Grid” to investigate the impact that wind farms have in providing a viable alternative to fossil fuels and to tackling climate change.
After taking part in the Leinster ECO-Dens in Europe House on the 28th March they were selected from 287 projects countrywide to take part in the national finals. There they competed against 84 other finalists in this gala showcase and were thrilled to be judged the winner of the ECO-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards 2017 Junior Energy Award. Sean Ryan accepted the trophy and was joined on stage in the Mansion House by the team including Dylan McDermott, Melissa Banahan, Chloe Hussey, Cian Coffey, Sean Ryan and Kevin Tansey. Well done to all the students for winning this prestigious All Ireland award.
Honda 50 Run
The annual Honda 50 Run in aid of Longford MS will take place on Sunday next starting from St. Mary’s Parish Hall Lanesboro at 12.30pm. Even if you are not competing the sight of so many Honda 50’s is a sight to behold and it will be well worth your while to drop down to the hall and carpark and see all of these motorbikes. Registration will commence at the hall at 10.30am. Tickets will be on sale and there will be prizes to be won at the draw in the hall. Go along and be supportive of the organisers and the Longford MS cause the organisers are promoting.
Exam Time
Wednesday next sees the commencement of the Junior and Leaving Certificate. I wish all the young people of our community the very best of luck in the exams and I hope all your hard work pays off and you receive the results you are seeking.
Death
The sudden death occurred at Mullingar General Hospital on Saturday 27th May of Dr. Niall Walsh, Clonbonny House. Niall along with his wife Breda moved to Lanesboro almost 40 years ago and set up his practice originally from his home on the Rathcline Road before moving to Main Street. Niall and Breda later bought Clonbonny House where he resided until death on Saturday. Niall instantly became a very popular doctor with a fast-growing list of patients. Niall had a warm and friendly nature that set all patients and friends at ease and being a Dubliner he had that wonderful Dublin trait of quick wit and humorous one liners that diffused even the most serious of situations. He was an excellent, dedicated and most caring doctor and no matter the time he was always made himself available to assist. During the days after his death the common comment thread amongst locals was the excellent doctor he was and the wonderful deeds he did for so many people during his time above and beyond the call of duty.
He was a keen sportsman with Soccer and Rugby being his first loves but every other sport got its look in and he was doctor on call for practically every other sport including the Roscommon Races. He travelled far and wide to support the National teams and he was an avid supporter of Longford Town. Niall was always until recent years was a very active member of the Irish Medical Organisation. He was generous to a fault with his time and his passing will affect a huge number of people who came to depend on Niall as a doctor and friend. Niall always believed that this earth was for a good time and there is no doubt that he lived life to the fullest and his passing will make people recall the many great times in his company.
As a family friend, I can assure you, there was none more loyal as a friend and doctor making this death report so hard to write. Friends like Niall don’t come along every day. His sudden departure deprived us the opportunity to express to him our feelings, thoughts and thanks. His passing will leave a great sadness but the wonderful memory of having known him. Niall’s remains were removed to Lakelands Funeral Home and Crematorium, Cavan for Service on Thursday 30th May.
We would like to express our deepest sympathy to his wife Breda, daughters Emma, Zara and Evanna, grandchildren Harry, Freddie and Paddy, relatives and a multitude of friends
Lough Ree Golfing Society
The next outing for the Lough Ree Golfing Society will be closer to home at the County Longford Golf Club. The society is going there on Wednesday 14th June. The tee off time is 11.30am. There were some very good scores at the course last time out, so keep up the good work! Reports are the course is in very good shape and the Society looks forward to seeing you all there.
Tourism Co-Op Draw
The numbers drawn in the Lanesboro Tidy Towns lotto on Tuesday 30th May were; 18, 20, 25 and 30. There was no winner of the jackpot of €7,100. The winner of the €50 prize was John Nolan, Ballyleague, and the three €20 winners were Catriona Dowd, Thureen, Theresa Gillen, c/o Mags and Tom and Carmel Smyth c/o Mags.z
Lanesboro Bridge Club
The results of Lanesboro Bridge Club End of Season competition played on Wednesday 17th May are: North/South: 1st Patricia McGann and Mary Jamieson, 2nd Una Clarke and Frances Brennan and 3rd Gemma Douglas and Elish Gray. East/West: 1st Noreen Dunne and Mae Casey, 2nd Una Lawlor and Brid McDermott and 3rd Philomena Walsh and Katherine Harrison.
Lough Ree Monster Festival Update
The Lough Ree Festival will be launched on Friday and Saturday night 28th and 29th July in St. Mary’s Hall when the John Kenny written, Dermot Healy directed play The Lough Ree Monster will be debuted. The play has a host of locals from Cashel, Ballyleague and Lanesboro and it promises to be fabulous launch nights. Rehearsals are progressing in the Hall twice and sometimes three times a week in preparation for the big weekend.
Tickets will soon be available to book for the two nights and there will be details in the next week or so.
The full music programme for the Monster Festival is nearing completion and there is an exciting line up to cover all music tastes throughout the weekend.
Already we have Cliona Hagan, who is after blasting onto the Irish country music scene less than twelve ago, Cliona has definitely left her unique stamp with her latest singles; “We’re All Gonna Die Someday”, “Cowboy Yodel Song” And “I Need Someone to Hold Me When I Cry.” Katie Gallagher who has been described as a bright, up-and coming singer/songwriter/musician Ballymahon lady who is really making a name for herself on the music scene, Entertainer of the Year, the legendary Mike Denver and Longford band Reprisal, who are a trio from Longford, who play hard hitting energetic rock and AC/DC tribute band IE/DC. This line up is without doubt once of the best line ups anywhere in the country and the committee has worked hard to ensure that the people of the area will get the very bestof entertainment.
The Lough Ree Monster will emerge from Lough Ree on Friday night 4th and we look forward to a massive crowd down at the river to welcome the Monster back after a 25-year absence. The Monster will remain in the bay area for the weekend and it will leave in the midst of a firework display on the Sunday night.
Make sure you are in the area for this fabulous weekend and join in the fun of the Lough Ree Monster.
Rehearsals go to the stage
The cast of the Lough Ree Monster has completed the reading of their lines and moved to St. Marys Hall on Wednesday night last in preparation for its debut on Friday 28th July. The play will also take place the following night Saturday 29th July and both nights will be used as the official launch nights of the Lough Ree Monster Festival.
There is a wonderful cast working on this hilarious play with some members of the cast coming from the hugely successful Newtowncashel Drama Group and some new members coming from Lanesboro and Ballyleague. The play is being directed by the vastly experienced Newtowncashel man Dermot Healy who has directed many of the Newtowncashel drama Group plays.
Tidy Towns
Preparations are gathering pace for the upcoming judging by the National Tidy Towns adjudicators. The judging normally takes place on the first 3 weeks of June. Your support is greatly appreciated by painting a wall/gate, putting out hanging baskets and window boxes. The committee would like if each and every business would also give the area in front of their premises and along where the footpath meets the road a sweep. Everything that can be done should be done to assist the hard-working committee
Tourism Course
Longford College of Further Education are now enrolling for the Tourism with Business level 5 & 6 courses beginning September 2017. With the imminent arrival of Center Parcs, tourism related employment is expected to grow in County Longford. To apply go to www.longfordcfe.com or email hjohnston.tcl@lwetb.ie
Come to our Meeting
The Lough Ree Monster Festival committee meet every Wednesday in St. Mary’s Parish Hall at 9pm and we would love to have more people from the community of Lanesboro, Ballyleague, Cashel and Killashee join us for what promises to be a special event for the entire community on Friday and Saturday 28th/29th July and August Bank Holiday.
Annual Kayaking Camp
The annual Kayak Summer Camp will take place in Lanesboro/Ballyleague from Monday 26th June to Friday 30th June. The camp will be for ages 10 to 17-year-old. For further details or to book your place phone 087 2977769 or 087 6675275. Book early and avoid disappointment.
Convent of Mercy 1977 L.C.
Did you do your Leaving Cert. in the Convent of Mercy in 1977? It is hoped to have a reunion of the class of 40 years ago – Are you one of the girls that began secondary school in September 1972 or the intervening years and in June 1977 sat your Leaving Certificate in the former Convent of Mercy, Secondary School in Lanesboro? The get together will more than likely happen in September or October. Members or that class are asked to contact Geraldine (087 2224048) or Bridie (087 2218484) or e mail lanesborolc1977@yahoo.com
Seeking Cúl Camp Helpers
If any young person is interested in assisting at the Cúl Camps this summer then they should express their interest in doing so to Longford County Board in writing and the expression of interest should be signed by the person wishing to take part and also signed by a parent/guardian. You must indicate the number of camps that you are available to attend.
Any young person under eighteen wishing to be a helper or an assistant coach should also make sure a parent/guardian signs the parental consent form for E -vetting for the named child. E-vetting is a must for children assisting at camps. There is a step by step guide available on the Longford GAA website www.longfordgaa.ie
Upcoming EDI Courses
First Aid Course commencing 19th, 20th, 21st June 2017 at 10:00am – 4:00pm.
Cost: €200
SAFE Pass Course commencing 12th June 2017 at 8.30am – 5.00pm.
Cost: €125 (This includes SAFE Pass card)
To register your interest, contact the EDI Centre, Longford. Tel: (043) 33 47515; email: enquiries@edilongford.ie
To secure a place a deposit of €30 is required.
Please note: Funding may be available for people in receipt of certain social welfare payments, call in to your local Intreo/DSP office or ring (043) 33 40000 to check your eligibility.
Thank You
On behalf of all of the Lanesborough Community Games committee, a huge Thank you to all those whom participated, attended, supported, volunteered and helped out at the County Community Games Track and Field in Ballymahon on Sunday last, 4th June.
We are very proud of all those that took part. They flew the flag well for Lanesborough.
We are very grateful to you all, for making it a successful day.
Rathcline GAA
Division 2
For all that attended the local derby game against Killashee in Division 2 on Friday night last, they missed what was and most probably the highest scoring game played or will be played in Clonbonny for a long long time. When referee Michael O’Brien blew the final whistle, the final whistle read Rathcline 4-11 Killashee 4-11. As you can imagine from this this scoreline that this game was nonstop from start to finish and after seeing 30 scores in the hour it was value for money.
50/50
Monday night last 29th May the 50/50 took place in the Yacht Bar. The winning pool amounted to €380 and the winner was Paddy Donlon, Derryshanogue. The club would like to congratulate Paddy on his win, thank him for his support and we would like to thank everyone else for their continued support.
Tickets are on sale locally at €2 each and your support will be greatly appreciated. Alternatively, you can by the pink ticket for the year for just €100 and have 2 free weeks
Could you sell €2 lotto envelopes in your workplace or your neighbourhood weekly? If you can help in any way with the sales of lotto please contact the Executive
Minor Club
Working at the Cúl Camps
If any young person is interested in assisting at the Cúl Camps this summer then they should express their interest in doing so to Longford County Board in writing and the expression of interest should be signed by the person wishing to take part and signed by a parent/guardian. You must indicate the number of camps that you are available to attend.
Any young person under eighteen wishing to be a helper or an assistant coach should also make sure a parent/guardian signs the parental consent form for E -vetting for the named child. E-vetting is a must for children assisting at camps. There is a step by step guide available on the Longford GAA website www.longfordgaa.ie
Cúl Camp dates: The Cúl camps will take place in Rathcline from Monday 24th to Friday 28th July. The cost of Cúl Camps this year is €60 for 1st child, second child €50 and third/fourth €40.
Bookings can be made online www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie or to Damien Sheridan, GAA Coaching Officer, Pearse Park, Battery Road, Longford, phone 087-9126556.
U-10 Blitz
Our U-10 team had a two-team blitz in Clonbonny with Killashee last week and it proved to be a great occasion with all players on both sides getting playing time and it was a fascinating sight with so many youngsters enjoying themselves.
This Wednesday our U-10 panel will play another blitz, this time in Killashee where Grattan Gaels, Ballymore Shamrocks, Southern Gaels and Shannon Gaels at 7.00pm.
Our U-12 panel will travel to Carrick on Shannon for their first game in the Longford Leitrim Cross Border League where they will play St. Mary’s- Kiltoghert at 7.30pm
Exams
The entire club would like to wish all our players the very best for the Leaving and Junior Certificate that starts this Wednesday.
Lough Ree AC
Community Games
County Longford Community Games Track and Field Finals took place on Sunday last in Ballymahon under poor weather conditions. As final results are not to hand and should appear elsewhere in this paper, the following were among medal winners in Ballymahon, Josie Myhill, Caoilinn Flood, Aoife Nolan, Liam Ross, Roisin Brennan and Jane Dowd. In the relays, the girls outshone the boys getting second in the under 14 and third in the under 16 and helping the lads to medal in the Mixed Relay. Mikey Sorohan wins our “man of the match” award for this performance in the 200m” under 10. On the other side of the bridge in the County Roscommon Community Games Christian, Owen and Viktoria were gold medal winners, while Nikita and Anthony were runners up in their events. Again, full results are not available at time of going to press so apologies if we omitted anybody. A more detailed report will available next week. Well done to the Community Games Committees o both sides of the bridge for their work and to the parents who came out and supported the children on the day. We know your support means so much to the competitors.
All Ireland School Track and Field Tullamore
Our source omitted to advise that Ryan Murray representing competition. Well done Ryan. Ryan’s grandfather was Jarlath Murray RIP former President and founder member of the Athletic Club. Conor Rohan was sick and didn’t travel on Saturday .Looking forward to the next event which is the underage Connaught Track and Field Championship.