Lanesboro Ballyleague Notes
A Very Special Fundraising Night
If you gave nothing else was given this Christmas only a ticket for this function it would be the gift of a lifetime.
A very special Fundraising night will take place in the Peer Inn on Sunday week 26th September – St. Stephen’s Night. This is a very special night and the support of not only our community but the wider community is encouraged for this special night. Your support will be a lot more than appreciated.
Tickets are widely available throughout the area or from O’Brien’s Corner Shop. Please be as supportive as you can most humanly be for this night and do go along and make it a tremendously successful night. Music will be supplied by local artists from 10 until late. Tickets are priced at a very reasonable €10.
Joyous Choir and Harpists
On Saturday evening last following evening Mass the local choir and harpists under the leadership of Edel Loftus held a Christmas concert in St. Mary’s Church. It was a joy to behold the talent that is amongst us in our community. The choir sang seasonal songs and carols and gave delightful renditions of each. The harpists led by Edel played some wonderful pieces and enthralled the gathering. It was amazing to see the talented young ladies performing so beautifully on the altar.
We congratulate Edel, her choir and harpists on a wonderful performance.
Special Christmas Whist Drive
Lanesboro Social Services will hold a Special Christmas Whist Drive on this Friday night 17th December in St. Mary’s Parish Hall commencing at 8.30pm. This traditionally is the night of the year for all Whist players and there is no doubt that once again the night will be huge success. A hugely enjoyable night is assured and make sure you are there to enjoy it all.
Christmas Day Run Promises to break Record
Judging by the number seeking sponsorship cards for the Christmas Day Run/Walk from Newtowncashel to Lanesboro leads me to believe that the Longford Multiple Sclerosis organisers are going to celebrate their 20th anniversary in real style. The tradition Run/Walk will take off from Newtowncashel to Lanesboro with the walkers setting off at 11.45am and the runners at 12.15pm.
The organisers would like to thanks everybody that has so far picked up their sponsorship cards and would like to ask anybody else intending to run to pick up their sponsorship cards as soon as possible. We are in times that are financially difficult for everyone and none need your support more than MS sufferers. As this is the main fundraiser of the year the committee encourages you to maximize your efforts in raising sponsorship.
Sponsorship cards are available from O’Brien’s Corner Shop, Michael Flood, Newtowncashel (Tel: 086-0880855); Brigid Mullooly, Lanesborough (Tel: 086-8807596) and from Casserley’s Shop and Fallon Bar Newtowncashel.
Birth
Congratulations to Paul and Anna Kumorek, Main Street on the recent birth of a baby girl.
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to George and Pearl Crooke and family, The Green, on the death last week of George’s sister Florrie Crooke, Kenagh last week.
Birth
Many congratulations to David and Siobhan Curran, Killinure, on the birth last weekend of a baby boy.
Christmas Day Swim
Now that the weather has taken a changed for the better it feels almost balmy in comparison to the last week and the talk of the brave hearted has again turned to the annual Christmas Day Swim. The number of people coming into the shop seeking their sponsorship cards for the swim has continued throughout the past week and it is heartening to see so many want to support the Lough Ree Sub Aqua club and take the plunge into the icy cold water.
This year is the 31st year of the sponsored swim and it is hoped that the numbers this year will exceed all records. The swim has raised much money for the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club and local charities for the past 30 years and it is hoped that a huge number will once again take the plunge on Christmas Day and help the Sub Aqua club.
Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club is one of the leading clubs in the country and has been to the forefront in search and rescue for many years. Their work is without doubt vital and your support for the Swim will be greatly appreciated.
Sponsorship cards are available from O’Brien’s Corner Shop and from any member of the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club.
Death
It was with great sadness we learned of the death at Costello Nursing Home on Tuesday last 7th December of St. Raphael, Convent of Mercy, Lanesboro. St. Raphael was one of the first nuns to come to Lanesboro to form the Convent of mercy Secondary and Primary schools. She was a native of Ballinahinch, Co. Down and a very proud Co. Down woman. Even after all those years away from her native county soil she retained a tremendous pride of place for Co. Down. In recent times she had been in failing health and her passing will leave a void in the hearts and minds of all that knew her, either as a teacher or in her ministry as a nun. Sr. Raphael together with her Sister of Mercy community was one of the leaders in our own community as it began to grow and develop with the arrival of Bord na Mona and ESB. Her remains reposed in the Convent of Mercy Chapel until her removal on Friday last for her Funeral Mass. Following Mass her remains were laid to rest in Clonbonny cemetery. To her Sisters of Mercy community, nephews, nieces, relatives and great number of friends we extend our sincere sympathy.
Lanesboro Bridge Club
The annual Christmas Dinner of the Lanesboro Bridge Club will take place this Wednesday night 17th December in Viewmount House at 6.30pm sharp. Anybody requiring transport are asked to phone 3327116.
Death
The death occurred at Roscommon County Hospital of Mrs Maura Higgins, Church View, on Wednesday 8th December. Maura was predeceased by her husband Tommy a few years ago, resided with her daughter Mags and son in law Adrian for the past number of years.
Her remains reposed at Mags and Adrian’s home in Church View before her removal to St. Mary’s Church, Lanesboro on Friday last. Following the Mass of the Resurrection on Saturday Maura’s remains were removed to Kilcommick Cemetery for burial. To her daughters Mags and Marian, sons Michael, Pat, David and Seamus, sister Ann, relatives and many friends we extend our sincere e sympathy.
St. John’s Church Christmas Services
The Christmas Service schedule for St. John’s parishioners are as follows: In St. John’s Church Lanesboro there will be Holy Communion service on Christmas Eve at 9pm. On St. Stephen’s day there will be Morning service and Carols at 11.30am. In St. Coman’s Roscommon on Sunday 19th December there will be Service at 11.30am. On Christmas Day there will be Holy Communion Service at 11am.
Shannonside Camera Club
The Shannonside Camera Club is presently exhibiting 12 of its member’s photographs in the Atrium Gallery- Backstage in Longford at the invitation of Fergus Kennedy Co. Longford Arts Officer. Public viewing was and is for two weeks and can be seen Mon. to Fri. 10.00hrs. to 17.00hrs.until the 17th Dec. The club’s internet site can be viewed at www.mylocalnews.ie – click on the Map of Ireland, click on Co. Longford to see the Shannonside Camera Club news, views, photographs and more. The club welcomes new members and anyone interested may call 043-3321201.
Anthony Healy Memorial Cup
A 25 Drive in memory of the late Anthony Healy will take place in Clarke’s Bar on this Friday night 17th December commencing at 8pm. We all have fond memories of Anthony and we hope that all card players in the area will come out to support the card game in his memory. The winner will be first recipient of the Anthony Healy Memorial Trophy and will also receive a €50 meat voucher. There will also be a raffle on the night. All proceeds will go to the Irish Cancer Society.
Ballyboro Scouts
Ballyboro scouts would like to thank all who supported their Cake Sale in Ballyleague Hall. Congratulations to Leona Hoare who was the lucky winner of the draw for the Hamper.
Santa’s Train
The Cavan & Leitrim Railway in Dromad hosts the Santa train on Sunday next 19th December between 1pm and 5pm. The fare is just €10 with accompanying parents travelling free. Full details are available by phoning 071-9638599 or www.cavanleitrim.com
Death
The death took place on Tuesday last 7th December at Roscommon County Hospital of Mrs Rose Keane, Bogwood, Doughill. Rose a native of Castleblaney, County Monaghan was predeceased some years ago by her husband John. She was a lovely lady with a very endearing manner. She was a great neighbour and her loss will leave a great void in the hearts of everyone that had the pleasure to know her. Her remains reposed at the residence of her daughter Margaret Bourke on the Rathcline Road before being removed to St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh on Wednesday. Following her Funeral Mass on Thursday her remains were interred in Cloontuskert Cemetery. To her sons Michael and Oliver, daughters Margaret and Bridie, relatives and friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op
Lanesboro Tourism Co-Op is holding a draw for a valuable Christmas Hamper next weekend. This hamper is in addition to the lotto jackpot for next weekend and the usual €20 prizes. The draw will take place on Monday 20th December. Lanesboro Tourism have had a very productive year with the extending of the decorative street lighting up to St. Mary’s Church, the pathway to Tullyvrane crossroads, and the clearing and extending of the woodland walkway through the woods.
The Co-Op was also honoured by the attendance of President Mary Mc Aleese and her husband Martin during their visit to Lanesboro.
The Co-Op looks forward to carrying out further projects in 2011. They would like to thank all their friends, supporters and ticket sellers who have made this work possible.
The Co-Op wishes you all a very happy and healthy Christmas and new year.
NIP Tournament
A Christmas Nip tournament will take place in Clarke’s Bar on Sunday afternoon 19th December at 3pm. The entry fee is €5 and all proceeds will go to Longford Branch of MS.
St. Faithleach’s GAA
Club Membership: Membership due in January payable to Registrar, Padraig Murray.
The weekly game of cards takes place every Tuesday in the Club House, 9.00pm. The winners last week were: 1st Jean/Michael. 2nd Pat Joe/Tim. Last game Tom/Brendan.
Congratulations: To Mary McCormack & Wayne Kinsella on their recent engagement. To Andrew & Mary Flynn on the birth of their Baby Daughter. To David & Helen Rice on the birth of their Baby Son.
Upcoming Events: Table Quiz & Football Tournament to be held in St. Faithleachs GAA Club House during the Christmas Season. Kids Disco in aid of Cloontuskert National School will be held in the Club House on 30th December from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
Hunt-the-Wren: St. Faithleachs GAA Club is holding a Hunt-the-Wren Event for St. Stephens Day. All musicians, singers etc. we would be extremely grateful for your support. Please contact Mary Kenny (087) 9920708 or Sheila Collier.
Scór: The Club are hoping to revive Scór in the New Year. Further details to follow.
Sympathy: The Club extends deepest sympathy to the Keane Family on the death of their mother, Rose Keane, Bogwood, Curraghroe. To sons Michael & Oliver, daughters Margaret & Bridie, extended family & friends. The Club extends deepest sympathy to George & Pearl Crooke on the death of Florrie Cooke, Keenagh.
Triathlon Table quiz Thank You
The Lanesboro Triathlon club would like to express their deepest gratitude to the huge attendance that supported their Table Quiz in Clarke’s Bar at the weekend. The winners of the quiz were a team representing Lanesboro Community College –Danny O’Sullivan, Francis Clyne, Gavin Tucker and Conor Glennon. The club would also like to thank their sponsors – Joe & Martina O’Brien’s Corner Shop, The Yacht Bar, Casserley’s Spar, Keane’s Supervalu, Adie Farrell’s Swan Tavern, Ulster Bank and Coman’s Masters Swimming Club Roscommon.
Grand Christmas Card Game
Lough Ree Co-Op will stage a Grand Christmas Card Game in the Co-Op Hall on this Sunday night 19th December at 8.30pm. The jackpot on 14 games stands at €270.
The game will continue every Sunday night during 2011.
As this will be the last game before Christmas the Co-Op would like to thank all everybody for their support throughout the year and wish all a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year.
Lough Ree AC
Let’s start by saying a sincere Thank You to everyone that subscribed to the club’s Annual Church Gate Collection and particularly those brave souls who manned the tables in Lanesboro and Ballyleague.
The club regrets having to cancel the AGM last week due to the inclement weather. Now, due to the death of our club treasurer’s father, the late Paddy Mullooly, it has been adjourned further. The club extends its sympathy to Margaret and the entire Mullooly family on their bereavement.
The Christmas Day fun-run which is held in conjunction with the MS Newtowncashel to Lanesboro Run will take place as usual and will leave the track at 12.15pm, after last Mass, for the Parish Hall. The club encourages all parents to get their young people out for this fun-run.
The date for the Disco and awards evening has yet to be fixed and it will happen over the Christmas period.
Congratulations to the Irish Men’s U23 team who won Gold at the European Cross-Country Championships on Sunday in Portugal. It should give a much needed boost to cross-country running.
Talent Galore in our Community
Having attended the recent Scór competition and the concert, on Saturday night in St. Mary’s Church, given by the local choir and harpists made me think of what a marvellous number of talented people we have in our community. I am pretty sure that those I have seen over the past few weeks is only a fraction of the talented people both young and old we have in our midst.
In a time that we are reverting to olden ways and beginning to re-discover the value of real living and worth of our community – something that had been lost in the mayhem that was the Celtic Tiger – we can and must look to the talented amongst us to entertain and rekindled the community spirit and revitalise our communities once again.
The value of Scór, the drama group, the choirs, the musicians, the art group, dance schools, Scouts, Search for a Star, to name a few, is proving to be a resounding and excellent opportunity for the people of the community to enjoy the community spirit generated either as an active participant or as a spectator. To see the number of participants increase is great and it is a cause for excitement and great expectations for the future.
Looking at the Scór na nÓg competition and the talent from the many clubs in the competition it would be wonderful if we in our community could extend the range of musical and acting disciplines. To be able to offer our young a varied number of musical and acting options and also the opportunity to gain confidence of the big stage can only be of a huge benefit to the young people and to us as a community. We could look forward to many nights of local entertainment by our talented local people.
We must motivate our young people to rise to the opportunities that are out there for them and to grasp these openings with both hands as they arise. We must also encourage parents to raise the profile of their young people by supporting and encouraging them to avail of the opportunities that will be for them to achieve their goals.
Let us be proud of our young and help develop them into talented young people and encourage those not yet involved to join. It is in our own hands as parents and the older generation to encourage, support and help develop our young to achieve the pinnacle of their ambitions both in education and using their talent.
Early in the New Year, senior Scór, Search for A Star, the drama group will begin to get their teams together for what we are sure will be a terrific time for everyone within the community. I encourage everyone that has a talent or even wants to work in the background to make themselves available. Do not wait to be asked but offer yourself to a group the suits you and be part of a developing community. All help is always greatly appreciated but more importantly is the feeling of well-being and satisfaction that you will receive from your active involvement. Your talent must never be wasted.