Lanesboro Ballyleague Notes
Changing Time
On Sunday morning next 25th March at 1am Summer Time will commence and we will have to put our clocks forward. We will all begin to look forward to the longer days and the bright spring and summer evenings.
Confirmation
Confirmation for our local schools in St. Mary’s Church will now take place on Friday next 23rd March at 4pm. We wish all the young people a very happy day and hopefully it will not be spoiled by the weather that again blighted us again over the weekend.
Art and Craft Camp
An Easter Art and Craft camp will take place from Monday next 26th March until Thursday 29th March in St. Mary’s Hall, Lanesboro. To book a place you should contact Denise 086-8930990 or Amy 087-0904388.
This Art and Craft camp occurs a few times during the year and it proves to be hugely popular and extremely enjoyable. Early booking is most definitely advisable
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
As you prepare for something special you always have the fear in the back of your mind that something will crop up to spoil the occasion. Last Saturday all was prepared for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade a tremendous amount of preparation went into getting the event prepared. During the week we were told that the ‘Beast from the East’ in the form of cold, wind and snow was going to hit Ireland. We believed that we would not be badly affected as it seemed that it was going to be the east side of the country.
Saturday arrived, and our belief was shattered as there was a cold wind that would skin even the thickest skinned. As the morning progressed it got no warmer, if anything, it got cooler and there was a great fear for the parade and the attendance.
As we neared starting time of 2pm which had been brought forward from 2.30 due to the Ireland /England Rugby International and the opportunity for Ireland to go through the competition unbeaten and to add a Grand Slam title to a Triple Crown victory.
As the time approached a large crowd was gathering and excitement was rising as we prepared for the first sighting of this years Festival. It was brave people, young and old, that got on floats faced into the extremely cold easterly wind, equally so for all the people that lined the parade route from St. Faithleach’s GAA pitch to Lanesboro Community College. All in all, the Parade passed through Ballyleague and entertained all that came out to watch it.
This year the attendance was affected by both the extremely cold weather and the Grand Slam finale but for those that turned out in big numbers it was another thoroughly entertaining day in Lanesboro and Ballyleague.
Super Sunday in Longford and Roscommon
Without doubt each and every Longford and Roscommon supporter should be in Pearse Park and Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday next to support their counties in what we hope will be an astonishing weekend for both counties as they strive for promotion. Next weekend like no ever both sides need your vocal support to help cheer them on to victory. We often hear of supporters being the 16th man and we hope that will be the case on Sunday. Be there, be supportive and live the dream of promotion for your county. We all need to be moving up in the world and a victory on Sunday will allows us all dream of the great things for the championship in the summer
Round seven of the Allianz League comes around on Sunday next in Longford and Roscommon. Promotion for both Longford and Roscommon is their own hands with both teams in the position of dictating their own fortune.
At 3pm in Pearse Park Longford who lie in second place in Division will entertain Fermanagh who are equal on points but behind on scoring difference in what promises to be a humdinger game. We would like to wish Denis Connerton, Cian O’Brien and the management team and all the panel members the very best of luck on Sunday. It was great to see Liam Connerton and Shane Kenny working their way back from injuries on Sunday when the county S&C coach had them running their way back to fitness prior to the game on Sunday last. Hopefully it will not be too long before we see them return to club and county colours.
For all the Roscommon supporter’s Dr Hyde Park on Sunday is the place to be when at 3pm Roscommon will take on Cork in their final league game. Roscommon currently on top of the Division 2 table are playing to make a quick return to Division 1. A victory here over Cork will guarantee Roscommon their objective as Cavan 2nd and Tipperary 3rd will meet in their final game. We wish Kevin Mc Stay and his management team and our local heroes Ciaran and Diarmuid Murtagh and their teammates the very best of luck.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Denis, Liam and Padraig Connerton, their sisters Angela, Phyllis and Vera on the death of their sister Mary Coll, nee Connerton, Clonmore, Mullingar and formerly of the Round House, The Green. We also extend our sympathy to her daughters Olivia and Anthea, relatives and friends. Mary was laid to rest alongside her late husband Myles in Clonbonny on Friday last.
Death
The death occurred on Sunday 11th March at Mullingar regional Hospital of Fr. Pat Moran, Carraroe. Fr. Pat was from one of our oldest and most respected families in our parish. He was Pastor Emeritus, Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota, U.S.A., where he spent a large number of years in his clerical missionaries. Fr. Pat was a hive of knowledge on our parish and he always had a very keen interest in the happenings in the parish. He was always a font of knowledge when you were talking to him and indeed it was always a pleasure as you left a lot more knowledgeable. Since his return from Minnesota Fr. Pat lived in Ballyleague and in recent years in Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague.
His remains reposed at Glennon’s Funeral Home, Longford on Tuesday last before his removal to St. Mary’s Church Lanesboro. Following his Requiem Mass on Mass he was laid to rest on Wednesday in Cashel Cemetery. To his sister Margaret Kilroy, Sr. Evelyn, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Break-in
On Thursday last 15th March on the newly reopened slip road off the Longford Road passing the back of Mickie Flynn’s Garage a house was burgled during daylight hours while the occupants were at work. A substantial amount of money and jewellery was stolen. I the word of a retired local Garda’ someone always sees something, but they are not sure of the connection until they hear of an incident’. Let’s hope someone seen people hanging around the house which is just beside the bridge and just up from the back of the garage. If this note recalls something in your mind, please contact Lanesboro Gardaí 3321102 or Longford Gardaí 3350570.
Conradh na Gaeilge
Míle buíochas do gach duine who contributed so generously, to our Bailiúchán Náisiúnta on Lá Fhéile Pádraig. It’s always heartening to see the number of people who recognise the worth and importance of our ancient language and are prepared to show their support in such a tangible way. If you attended school in Ireland, you will have the “cúpla focal”. (probably more than you realise). Use whatever you can, whenever you can. As the saying goes “Gaeilge más féidir, Béarla más gá. (Irish if you can, English if you must).
Thanks to An tAthair Micheál for the Ár nAthair at each Mass. (Was there anyone there who didn’t know the words? It didn’t sound like it).
And thanks also to Joe O’Brian for his unfailing support and positive comments in the notes over the years.
Defibrillator Course
The Defibrillator course is once again being organised for those that have not already done a defibrillator course or for those that need to do their refresher course. We all know the value of being competent in the use of the defibrillator. There is also a need to ensure you do not let your training lapse hence the great need for continued upskilling with your refresher course.
To book in for the next training and refresher leave your name and phone number into Martina O’Brien. Call in, phone 3321107 or 0863858934.
Our library
Easter Closing
Library will close at 5pm on Wednesday 28th March for Easter and will reopen on Tuesday 3rd April at 2pm. A very Happy Easter to all our patrons!
Knitting & Crochet Group
Knitting & Crochet Group continues every Monday 2-4pm. All Welcome!
Lasraí Writers Group
‘Poetry and Music Hour’ will continue at Lanesboro Library on Monday 26th March from 4.15 to 5.30pm. Come along and share a favourite poem or song!
The group is looking forward to seeing you there and meeting new people interested in poetry and music and song.
ESOL Class
ESOL Class continues every Tuesday at 7pm.
Books & Babble at the Library
Baby Book Club for parents/carers with children aged 0-2years will continue on Wednesday 21th March at 10.15am.
The session will include stories, songs and early language and literacy activities. Come along and join in the fun!!
Book Club
Book Club continues on Friday morning 23rd March at 11am. All welcome to come along and enjoy a chat and a cuppa!
Foreign Currency Appeal Reminder
We are still collecting unwanted foreign currency and old coins/notes in aid of ISPCC. The smallest donation can make a huge difference. Thank you.
Library membership is free for everyone and provides you with complimentary access to books and p.c.’s in the library as well as a range of digital services.
Download free eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines and newspapers with your library card and pin.
Learn a new language online with Mango (over 71 languages available) or learn a new skill with Universal Class which offers over 400 free online courses.
Call to the library for your free library card & pin or further information.
50 Years Ago, Golden Anniversary
A school reunion of all who started Secondary School in Lanesboro Vocational School on Sept 1st, 1968. This Sept will be the 50th anniversary of that happening.
Liam Finnegan would love to hear from all who started that day, or maybe from family as contact details will be needed for all.
It would be great for everyone to meet up again after all this time on Sept 1st at their old Alma Mater
Liam is delighted to have the total support of the School Principal and staff behind this venture so please contact him with your contact details or if family members could forward me contact details of those living away.
You can contact me on any of the following: Tel: 086 2585656, email liamfinn55@gmail.com or on Facebook – Liam Finnegan
Tourism Co-Op Draw
Last Tuesday the Lough Ree Tourism Co-Op held their weekly lottery draw for a jackpot of €11,000. The numbers drawn were 10, 13, 19 and 26. There was no winner of the jackpot and the roll-over for the coming week stands at €11,100. The winner of the €50 prize was Johnny Hanley, Corrigeen, the three €20 prizes were won by Michael Donlon, c/o Mags, Kathleen Kelly, Rathcline and Jimmy Tarmey Cloontuskert. The co-op really appreciates your continued support.
Accommodation Database
The lough Ree Angling Hub is drawing up a House/Accommodation to Let – Short/Medium/Long Term and if you have such properties you should contact the Lough Ree Angling Hub at their Ballyleague office.
50/50
The winning ticket drawn in Yacht Bar for the Rathcline 50/50 was a pick ticket and in the name of Brian and Cathy Kelly, Cullentra – for the second week in arrow the winning prize went to Killashee. Liz was the winners of €288
Tickets are on sale locally at €2 each. Alternatively, you can by the pink ticket for the year for just €100 and have 2 free weeks. The club would like to thank everyone that continues to support the draw on a weekly basis and the many people that buy the one-year ticket.
Not too long ago the pool each week was nearing €500 and we would encourage you to get your weekly blue envelope and help drive the weekly amount back to where it should always be. Your support is much appreciated.
Yes, You Can Help
Athlone Samaritans are seeking volunteers to assist with the great work the Samaritan community does all year round. You do not need experience or qualifications as full training will be provided. Athlone Samaritans provides 24-hour emotional support. To find out more phone 085 284 5010 or email athlonevols.com
LCC wins O’Byrne Cup
Last Wednesday in Clonbonny Lanesboro Community College played Ard Scoil Padraig, Granard in the final of the O’Byrne Cup. Lanesboro CC had not been in the final for a number of years and this was their opportunity to get back into the big time. After an impressive performance they ran out 3-11 to 1-8 winner to the unbridled joy of the big school following. All year the team looked like they were going to claim a big prize and it came to the team on Wednesday.
The panel that brought the O’Byrne Cup back to the school was: Dylan Donlon, Dean O’Reilly, Owen Murray, Daniel Curran, Karl Nerney, Ruairi Trimble, Daniel Mc Dermott, Padraig Sorohan, Daniel Cox, Ryan Kidd, Kevin Tansey, Richard Klava, Jason Glancy, Michael O’Donnell, Dylan Glancy, Conor Sorohan, Liam Galvin, Jack O’Loughlin, Ryan Corcoran, Dylan Mc Dermott, Cian Farrell, Shane Killian, Mark Dowd, Kevin Mc Donagh and Niall Chawke.
The team was excellently managed by Robert O’Dwyer, Joe Rooney and Conor Smith
Charity Challenge Next Weekend
The Ronan McCormack Charity Challenge has been refixed to Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th March.
All details in relation to the event remain the same, just the date change. (due to the weather).
If you would like to participate……Online registration has re-opened at Active.com/Ronan McCormack
If you are a company/business/service provider …. Contact Jacqueline at 086 1721181 to see how this event can help showcase you, your product and your service.
Proceeds from this year’s event will go to Pieta House, Roscommon Special Olympics and Children’s Special Needs Services Galway.
If you have already registered or supported us in any way Thank you so much.
Annual General Meeting
The Longford Branch of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland will hold their Annual General Meeting in The Longford Arms Hotel, Longford on Tuesday 27th March at 8.00 p.m.
Guest speaker on the night is Mary Callanan, Operations Manager with the Alzheimer Society.
Monster Bingo: Fundraiser for St Vincent’s Minor Club (Ballinamuck/Drumlish Minors) on Sunday 25th March 2018 at 3pm, in the ’98 Memorial Hall, Ballinamuck. €2,500 to be won in prize money and Easter Eggs to be won on every page and a Monster Raffle on the day.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
O’Rourke Cup: The Seniors play Padraig Pearses on Sunday 25th in Ballyleague at 12 noon.
Junior League: The division 4 League match was conceded by St. Croan’s on Sunday morning last. Next round takes place against St. Ronan’s in Ballyleague on Saturday 31st March.
Minor League: St. Faithleach’s conceded to Kilmore/Shannon Gaels on Saturday morning last.
U14 Boys League: Our U14 boys start their league campaign on Saturday 24th with an away game to Eire Og / Michael Glavey’s at 11am in James Timothy Park.
U16 Ladies Championship: St. Faithleach’s played St. Michael’s on Mon 19th next game against Kilglass Gaels on Sunday 25th at 4pm in Ballyleague.
Congratulations: To Lanesboro Community College, team and management and to our club reps; Michael O’Donnell, Ruairi Trimble, Karl Nerney, Daniel Mc Dermott, Daniel Cox, Dylan Donlon, Dylan Mc Dermott, Richard Klava, and Kevin Mc Donagh on winning the O’Byrne Cup Final. Result: Lanesboro CC 3-11 Ardscoil Phadraig Granard 2-6.
Thanks: Many thanks to Michael Carroll from Roscommon County Board for facilitating our Child Protection Course on Wednesday evening last at the clubhouse.
Table Quiz: Club Table Quiz takes place on Friday 23rd in the clubhouse at 9:30pm – all teams are invited to take part, as well as parents, supporters and members of the community. Table of four €40.
Cards: Take place every Tuesday evening in the clubhouse. Last week’s winners; P.J and Bridie, Sean and Packe, last game Tom and Padraig.
Lotto: Jackpot stands at €12,000. Next draw takes place Tue 20th. Team in charge for next two weeks; Derek Thompson, Stephen Ormsby and Emma Donlon. Annual lotto membership renewal is now available, please contact Michael Cleary or Sean Cox.
Rathcline GAA
This week’s fixtures: On Saturday our Reserve League team will travel to Ballinalee to play Sean Connolly’s in their first game of the League. This league is a great opportunity for lads to get out and play a bit of football.
Membership: Time is running out for club membership. Peter Skelly and Denis Crinigan, Cathal Chapman or Liam Connerton or any other club official will be happy to accept your membership
50/50
The winning ticket drawn in Yacht Bar for the Rathcline 50/50 was a pick ticket and in the name of Brian and Cathy Kelly, Cullentra – for the second week in arrow the winning prize went to Killashee. Liz was the winners of €288
Tickets are on sale locally at €2 each. Alternatively, you can by the pink ticket for the year for just €100 and have 2 free weeks. The club would like to thank everyone that continues to support the draw on a weekly basis and the many people that buy the one-year ticket.
Not too long ago the pool each week was nearing €500 and we would encourage you to get your weekly blue envelope and help drive the weekly amount back to where it should always be. Your support is much appreciated.
Support: If there was ever a time that Denis Connerton and the county team needed our support then it is next Sunday when they take on Fermanagh at 3pm in Pearse Park. It is a case of winner takes all as the winning team get promoted. Let us all go together as a club minor and senior and support Longford.
We wish The Murtagh brothers Ciaran and Diarmuid the very best of luck on Sunday as a victory for Roscommon on Sunday next in Hyde Park would mean promotion to Division 1.
Annual 25 Card Drive: The annual 25 Card Drive will take place in St. Mary’s Parish Hall on Good Friday night 30th March at 9pm.Tickets are now on sale costing €5 each. There will be a draw for non-playing ticket holders. There will be numerous prizes on the night.
Defibrillator Course: The importance of being capable of using the Defibrillator situated inside the main door of the clubhouse should not be lost on any of us as we never know the time or hour that having been trained in its use will play a vital part in keeping someone alive. This was a case a couple of years ago in our pitch. As a club together, senior, minor and ladies we would encourage many of our parents and supporters to undertake the upcoming course. Please give your names to Martina O’Brien, Corner Shop, 3321107, 086-3858934 or martinaclyne1@gmail.com as soon as you can.
Sympathy: The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to Liam, Denis, Padraig Connerton and their sisters Angela, Phyllis and Vera on the death of their sister Mary Coll, nee Connerton, formerly of The Round House, The Green last week.
The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to Sr. Evelyn Moran and Margaret Kilroy and the extended Moran family, Carraroe on the death of Fr. Pat Moran last week.
Shannon Gaels Minor Club
This week’s fixtures: Sunday evening next our minor team will travel to the Laurels to play Northern Gaels in the special minor league
O’Byrne Cup winners: Many congratulations to Lanesboro Community College on winning the O’Byrne Cup in Clonbonny on Wednesday last. Well done to the management team of Joe Rooney, Robert O’Dwyer and Conor Smith. The team and panel were embellished by our club players Dean O’Reilly, Owen Murray, Daniel Curran, Padraig Sorohan, Kevin Tansey, Dylan Glancy, Conor Sorohan, Jack O’Loughlin, Cian Farrell, Shane Killian, Mark Dowd and Niall Chawke.
Gaeltacht Grants: Applications are now open for the 2018 Longford GAA Gaeltacht grant scheme. Applicants must be 13 years or older on 1st Jan 2018. The closing date for applications is this coming Friday 23rd March 2018. Go to www.longfordgaa.ie click the news section and download the form and it can be returned by email to irishculturalofficer.longford@gaa.ie or can be posted/dropped into office at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park. If you cannot do it drop into Joe O’Brien and he will print off application form.
Leinster semi-finals: Due to the awful weather at the weekend our Leinster Cross County U13and U15 semi-finals scheduled for Monday were called off. As I write I do not have details of when the games will be rescheduled.
Show: Preparations are currently ongoing in preparation for aa show to be held in the parish Hall in mid-May. Details of the show will be made known in greater detail in the coming weeks.
Can you help? The club is very active both on and off the field and if you feel that you would like to help please contact Alan Fayne, Seadna Ryan or Sean Kenny or any other member of the executive.