Local notes: At the book launch in Castlebar library of 'The Troubled Times in Ballyglass (Claremorris) during Ireland's War of Independence 1918-1923.
Pictured at the launch of a book in the county library entitled 'The Troubled Times in Ballyglass (Claremorris) during Ireland’s War of Independence 1918 – 1923' were Sharon Monaghan, Geraldine Kilgallon, Karen Serantes, Tom McGrath, Ita Nestor, Kevin Coyne, Ann Coyne, Carmel Monaghan and Jimmy Murphy. Picture by Tom Quinn
“The Transitional: George Moore at the Fin de Siecle” Conference hosted by the Department of English, University of Liverpool, with the George Moore Association will take place from May 8-10, 2024. The conference will focus on the multiple transitions which coincided with, and characterised, Moore’s life and career. These include transitions between the nineteenth and the twentieth centuries; naturalism, realism and modernism; poetry, prose and drama; catholicism and protestantism, English and Irish identities; public and private morality. Transitions and related rivalries involved vigorous and often fruitful exchanges with numerous luminaries including Thomas Hardy, Arthur Symons, Max Beerbohm, Michael Field, Arnold Dolmetsch, the National Vigilance Association, Virginia Woolf, James McNeill Whistler, W. H. Smith & Mudie’s, George Bernard Shaw, WB Yeats, and many other contemporaries in the artistic, journalistic, political and social scenes. Transition is also characteristic of the themes of Moore’s writing: between secular and religious; between male and female; between wealth and poverty; between constrained and liberated. Papers may include, but are not limited to, considerations of transitions of all types in relation to George Moore and to his contacts and contemporaries. For George Moore, Liverpool was a place of transition. It was a point of arrival and departure for friends, acquaintances and publishers travelling between America and Europe. Most notably, this important location recalls a milestone in Moore family history: it was their landing point on a momentous 1846 journey that culminated in a victory for a horse called Coranna.
The final day of the conference will offer an opportunity to visit Chester racecourse where in 1846 George Moore’s father’s horse won the Chester Cup. This brought GH Moore £17,000, enabling him to offer relief to his tenants during the first year of the famine, and settle his gambling debts. The visit will coincide with the 2024 running of this famous race. Please register for Boodles May Festival Chester Cup Day 2024. Plenary speakers - Professor Frank Shovlin, University of Liverpool, UK. Call for papers - the deadline for submitting abstracts for papers (20 minutes) is Wednesday, December 20, 2023. Abstracts should be up to 200 words, should include a title and should be accompanied by a short biographical note of up to 100 words, plus email address and institutional affiliation (if applicable). Abstracts should be sent as email attachments to: GM2024@liverpool.ac.uk. Enquiries to gm2024@liverpool.ac.uk.
Ballintubber GAA Club is offering a lucky winner the chance to earn €1,000 a week for a year in their recent ‘Win €52k’ fundraiser. The attractive fundraiser will see the lucky winner claim a cash prize of €52,000 paid out at €1,000 per week into their account. The club intends to use the proceeds raised to install flood lighting at Ray Prendergast Memorial Park in Clogher and for the development of their underage structures. Tickets are reasonably priced at €20 each or three for €50 and can be purchased through the club fundraiser website www.win€52k.ie or from any of the club’s executive, whose contact details can be found on the club website www.ballintubbergaa.com. The winner will be drawn in the club’s Clogher clubhouse on Sunday, June 2, and will be broadcast live on the club Facebook page.
Ballintubber GAA is delighted to announce the return of the Stephens Day Turkey Run. It's the merriest 5k of the season, the perfect way to keep the festivities alive and stay active during the holiday season so brush off the runners and get ready for 12 noon start. Along with burning off the turkey you also support Ballintubber Bord na nÓg player development. Bring family and friends for a great social event, refreshments afterwards. The cost is €10 per adult and €20 per family and registration is from 11am with the run starting at 12 noon.
Kate Heneghan and Friends will host an evening concert on Thursday, December 21, at 8pm in Ballintubber Abbey. Donations on night will go to Ballintubber Abbey New Development in honour of Jo and Des Thornton; R.I.P. Tickets are priced at a modest €20 each.
The Ballintubber GAA weekly lotto draw took place on Sunday night, December 10. There was no winner of the jackpot. 9, 10, 12 and 13 were the numbers drawn and the consolation prizewinners were Mary Hallinan, Rita Staunton, Maureen Mulroe, Padraic Burke, John Loftus and Colin Derrig. The draw in Hughes of Carnacon for last weekend’s jackpot on December 17, was for a jackpot of €7,800. Congratulations to Tom Duffy, William Hoban, Tiernan Brady, Jack Diffely and Tom Murray, who were part of the St Gerald's team that beat St Jarlath's College in the Connacht Junior A title last week on a score of 3-9 to 2-10.
Congrats to Jack Diffily, Ballintubber, who put in a ‘man of the match’ performance as he scored 27 points for St Gerald’s in the U16 final at the De La Salle Hall, Castlebar. The St Gerald’s student was inspired, scoring three three-pointers and his strength and skill was something Gortnor Abbey could not deal with. St Gerald’s emerged with a 45-42 victory over the North Mayo boys. Well done to Jack, his team mates and coaches.
The numbers drawn on Monday, December 11, were 9, 18, 21 and 29. There was no winner of the jackpot of €4,900. Match 3 winners were Kathleen Killeen and Emily Vahey. Consolation prizes went to Jason O’Regan, the Byrne family, Summerhill; Tricia Morley; Sinead Mulroe and Rory Devlin. The weekend jackpot was €5,000.
The following are the winners from the last two weeks. Monday, December 4: 1st Peter Glynn and Tomas Solan, 2nd Jimmy Sheridan and Martin Ford. The last 10 winners were Johnny Burke and Kevin Burke; Philip White and Chris Flatley. The raffle prizes went to Jimmy Sheridan and Martin Ford. Monday, December 11:1st Philip White and Chris Flatley, 2nd Patricia Jennings and Jimmy Sheridan. The last 10 winners were Mary Brennan and Martin Ford and the raffle prizes went to Kevin Burke and Noel Costello. Congrats to all the winners and thanks to all the players who come along every week.
The Christmas Market in Ballyglass Community Centre took place at the weekend over two days due to the challenging weather conditions on Saturday morning. Despite the conditions there was a good crowd and everyone enjoyed the festive atmosphere. There was beautiful carol-singing on the Sunday from the Carnacon choir. They helped to make it a very special occasion for all in attendance. There was the usual array of craft and food items, with a Christmas twist. The Ballyglass Foróige group had a table of very attractive Christmas cards, crafts, wreaths and baked goods on sale. Well done to all the young people involved in making and selling, and their leaders. Thanks to all who made the market a great success. Special thanks to Bernard and Tom for managing the traffic in the wind and rain and to Catherine for the energy and effort she puts in every month entertaining the little ones with her balloon and face-painting skills. Thanks to all the loyal supporters of the Ballyglass market and a happy and peaceful Christmas to all of you.
The winners of the raffle were: Bridie Killeen (large hamper), Zoe Burke (sweet hamper), Sadhbh Vahey (kids hamper), Donnacha Hughes (Christmas cake from Féile catering), Aoife Bermingham (art set), Tom Gill (brandy), Nora Conroy (Christmas wrath from Judy Fallon), Mena Mahon (Christmas cake from Leona Nestor), Helen Malone (knitwear from Biggins Boutique, Ballinrobe), Bernie Conroy (art set) and Marie Burke (candle set).
Best wishes for a happy 40th birthday are extended to Jacinta Walsh, Cloonflynn. She is wished many more such joyous occasions in the years ahead.
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Grateful thanks to Tom Heneghan, Derrassa, and his team of helpers, Philip O’Malley, Gemma Meads, Shane Jones and Tommy Maree for their work and dedication in setting up the Christmas Crib outside Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh in the village. The crib is a beautiful display for the festive season. Thanks also to the team for putting up the Christmas lights in the village and the stars outside the church. Christmas greetings from Tuar Mhic Éadaigh to everyone at home and abroad.
The Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto draw took place on December 9, for a jackpot of €9,700 and 1, 6, 11 and 27 were the numbers drawn. The online prize winners were Caroline Heneghan and Sadie Molloy.
Congratulations to Tuar Mhic Eadaigh club personnel Luke Lydon and Seán de Búrca (school trainer) on their recent win with St Gerald's College in the schools Junior A Connaught final against St. Jarlaths College, Tuam.
The TYs in Coláiste Muire are holding a raffle to raise money for Mayo Roscommon Hospice, Daisy Lodge and TY activities. Tickets are €5 and are available from any TY student, locally or by texting Molly on 089 2108486. The draw will take place on Instagram and Facebook on December 21.
Congrats to Liathróid Láimhe Thuar Mhic Éadaigh who have received CLÁR funding of €19,800 for their project: the fencing and gate to existing playing court, application of non-slip paint, installation of spectator/player seating and lighting. These works will be a further upgrading of the magnificent sporting facilities available in Tourmakeady.
The Christmas Tridium Mass Cards are on sale at St Mary's Church, Tourmakeady. You can purchase cards at Masses in Tourmakeady or from Michael John Casey, Noreen Maloney or Breege Heneghan. The Mass Cards are €5 each.
Congrats to Kathleen and Sean O'Cualáin who were recent winners of the Tourmakeady NS lotto bonus ball draw with number 12. If you have not paid for the new round of the bonus ball and wish to continue, send in the €100 to the school ASAP.
A special ‘Thank You’ is extended to everybody who attended the recent parish social in Paddy’s Restaurant. A fantastic evening with great food, music and craic was had by all who attended. Thanks to O’Toole family and staff for fantastic food. Thanks also to Martin and Oliver who provided the music and to Noreen Gibbons and Katie Clarke for organising the event and to anyone else who helped in any way and gratitude also to Sally Gibbons also who was unable attend this year. Míle buíochas to everyone who gave prizes for the raffle and hampers.
Annual Christmas Mass cards for the outdoor Christmas tree in the grounds of St Mary’s Church in Tourmakeady are on sale. Eucharistic Adoration takes place in Partry Church on Mondays from 6 to 8pm. Adoration in Tourmakeady Church is on each Wednesday evening at 7pm concluding with Mass at 7.30pm.
A special ‘Thank you’ is extended to everyone who came out to light up Killawalla village in spectacular style. There were two very special surprise guests who turned on the lights with some of their magic spirit. All enjoyed some lovely Christmas carols by local children while the crowd were warmed with delicious hot chocolate and treats. Everyone also took a moment to remember those who are absent this Christmas. Their names are on the Christmas tree to let their families know that we are thinking of them.
A special thank you is extended to Peter Jordan, Micheal Larkin, Eamon Walsh, Martin Kelly and Fr Michael Tracey for the spectacular tree and lights. To Conor Duffy, Teresa Hoban and Megan O’Sullivan for accompanying the children with their songs and to all the ladies who helped out and especially to everyone who attended…. Merry Christmas to you all.
Partry Kids Choir will present a Christmas Carol Concert at the Mons Horan centre on Friday, December 23, at 6.30pm. Admission is just €5 with U12s free. All proceeds go to Partry Afterschool and the Community Council.
Congrats to Barry Burke, Partry, and Michael McAlpine, Castlebar, who were recent winners of Partry FC weekly Wednesday draw.
Recent winners of the Partry Residents weekly draw were Dermot Seymour and Vincent Hennelly. All winners receive €100. The prize money on Saturday, December 23, and December 30, will €200 per winner on those dates. Happy Christmas prosperous New Year wishes are extended to all supporters who contributed so generously.
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The Punch Bowl, Ballyheane’s famous hostelry will once again host the “Big White Barn Dance Country Music festival” in 2024. The prestigious event will run from June 7-9, and it will feature a wonderful array of top Country Stars including Michael English Music, Derek Ryan Music and The Whistlin' Donkeys over the two nights. Tickets are currently on sale and are selling fast. Details are available from the Punch Bowl Facebook page or call 087 9880312 for details. Congrats are extended to Claire and Larry Staunton the new proprietors of the Punch Bowl.
Breaffy GAA Club jackpot draw took place on Tuesday, December 12, and featured a jackpot of €16,600. The numbers drawn were 8, 16, 19 and bonus 9. There was no jackpot winner and no match 3 winners this week. Congrats to the lucky dip winners.
Congratulations to St Gerald's players and management on winning the Connaught GAA Junior A final last week. Breaffy Club are particularly proud of Breaffy boys Oisin Costello (Captain), Riley Cowan, Conor Coghill, Ross Connolly, Rhys Neary and Evan Mulchrone. St Gerald's College were fully deserving of their 3:09 to 2:10 victory over St Jarlaths College Tuam (Galway).
The Breaffy Wanderers Walking Group recently enjoyed their last coffee morning of 2023 in the clubhouse. There was some fabulous baking and treats on display in celebration of another great year enjoying the trails and walking loops of Mayo.
Congrats also to the group who also raised €260 for St Vincent de Paul Christmas Masses.
Saturday, December 23, Mass will be in St Anne's Belcarra at 8pm; Sunday, December 24, Christmas Eve, St Anne’s Belcarra at 8pm and December 25, Christmas Day, St Anne's, Belcarra at 11am.
Belcarra Community Council’s latest lotto draw featured a jackpot of €4,300 on December 10. The numbers drawn were 5, 6, 18 and 26. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Sadhbh McNamara, Bray, Robert Noone, online, John Nestor, Belcarra and Ciara Joyce, online. The weekend jackpot was €4,400 on December 17, and featured the Christmas Hamper draw. Tickets are currently on sale in Cunningham’s Costcutter, Cuffe Car Sales, Nestors, Corley's and Flukies and online.
Belcarra Parent and Toddler Group are hosting a morning of ‘Music and Messy’ play on Wednesday, December 20, between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Community Centre, Belcarra. All babies, toddlers and preschool kids welcome.
Alan Dillon TD recently announced that Ballyheane FC has secured CLÁR funding for their project the provision of a mobile 200 seater steel stand with canopy and integrated picnic area at a cost: €47,115.
Weekend Masses from January 2024 will see some adjustments. Ballyheane Mass will change from 8pm to 7.30pm on Saturdays and St Aloysius Church in Breaffy will host just one Mass on Sundays at 10am.
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Balla CRD thanks everyone for turning out in huge numbers and for making this year’s event the most memorable Christmas Festival of all in Balla. Thanks has been extended to the stewards, volunteers and helpers and a particular thanks to local Garda John Murphy and his team including Garda Marty Friel who implemented traffic management during the Tractor Lights Parades. Thanks also to the Order of Malta for being present and available. The TV coverage received from RTÉ News was brilliant and thanks to Pat McGrath and his team for showcasing the event.
Thank also to the teams of volunteers from the community who helped with Christmas Lights on trees, the market, the raffle, Santa's Grotto and both Tractor Runs. It takes extraordinary effort from you all to make this happen every year. Thank you to all who have donated and sponsored finance towards the Christmas Lights and Fireworks in Balla.
The death has occurred of Joe Glynn, Barrackland, Manulla, Castlebar, Co Mayo. Joe passed away suddenly at his residence on December 11, 2023 and his passing is an occasion of great sorrow to his family, relatives and friends who held him in the highest regard. Predeceased by his parents John and Mary, sisters Mary and Agnes and brother John Joe is deeply regretted by his loving sister Denise, nephews, nieces, grand-nephews and grand-nieces, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered.
Joe’s remains reposed in Coady’s Funeral Home on last Thursday, December 14, from 5.30 until 7pm. The removal of his remains took place on Friday morning at 11am to St. Cronan’s Church, Balla for Requiem Mass at 12 noon. Burial ceremonies took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. May he rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
Manulla FC lotto jackpot draw took place on December 10, and the numbers drawn were 9, 17, 23 and 32. The winners of the €25 consolation prizes were James Dunne, Balla, Richard McDonnell, Manulla and Dylan Dunne, Balla.
The Manulla FC U14 and U16 girls teams held their end of season awards nights recently in the clubhouse. A big thanks was extended to all the girls and parents for turning out in great numbers on the night and also to the committee for organising the evening.
U14A POY Anna Burton, U14 A MIP Siun O’Donnell, U14 B POY Grace O’Malley, U14B MIP Mia Jennings, U 16 POY Ellie Dunleavey and U16 MIP Grace Mulroy.
Special thanks to Shona Cunningham, Aoife Freyne, and Tracey Hall of the Manulla FC senior ladies squad for making the presentations.
Alan Dillon TD recently announced that Manulla FC have received CLÁR funding of €50,000 for the resurfacing of the car park at the clubs facilities. The grant aid is a huge and deserved boast to one of Mayo’s most successful and progressive soccer clubs.
Congratulations to Emily Vahey, Lauren Kavanagh and Emily Loftus, who recently came in the top 10 of the Theapharma Art Competition. At the prestigious event in their headquarters in Castlebar, Emily Loftus was announced as the first place winner, with a prize of €1,000 and Lauren was awarded third place with a prize of €250. It was a really proud moment to have 3 students from Balla in the top 10.
All monies placed in the candelabra while the Crib is in place will be donated to Sr Mary O'Malley to support her missionary work in Kenya. The annual contribution enables Sr Mary to help many more people.
Balla Community Centre is seeking applications for a Project Co-Ordinator. Call William on 094 9365846 for further details or email CV to manager@balla.ie.
Saturday, December 23, Mass at St Cronan’s, Balla, is at 8pm; Sunday, December 24, Christmas Eve, St Cronan’s, Balla at 8pm and December 25, Christmas Day, at St Cronan’s, Balla at 11am.
Congratulations to all the raffle winners in aid of Balla Christmas Lights and Fireworks 2023. The winners are as follows: Cora O’Brien, 2nd Karl Scanlon, 3rd Ciara Flatley, 4th Prize Kevin McCarthy, 5th Rita Hynes, 6th Peter Brown, 7th Ger Horan, 8th Ollie Kelly, 9th Shay Duffy and 10th Maeve Golding.
Bingo runs every Sunday at Balla Community Centre or online at 8pm. Balla Bingo is on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day this year at 8pm. The cut-off point to purchase books for Christmas Day is Saturday 23, at 12 noon and the cut off point for New Year’s Day is Saturday 30, at 12 noon.
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The walking group are organising a walk for Wednesday, December 27, at 11 am. This walk will help to shake off any extra pounds associated with Christmas excesses and will round off the walking year nicely. There will be a fire in the Heritage Cottage afterwards and a welcome cup of tea.
On behalf of all the groups in Clogher a word of thanks and appreciation is extended to everybody for all the help and support that they have shown through the year 2023. Local support is essential for services to be maintained and projects progressed. Best wishes for a happy and peaceful Christmas and health and happiness in the New Year to one and all.
