Around the Districts
ARDEE
CONTACT ME
Send any notes or details to Hubert at hmurphy@drogheda-independent.ie
COLLON TOPS FOR WINE
Well done to No.3 Wine bar and restaurant in Collon. They won an All Ireland title at the YesChef Awards - best wine experience. “We’re in shock! Thank you to all of our customers & staff for helping us on this wine journey. You know who you all are giving us a hand tasting wines from all over the world to perfect our Wine Experience,” they stated.
MATTOCK LOTTO
Numbers drawn are 4, 13, 19, & 30. €8,400 Jackpot not won. TWO Match 3 winners are Joan Finnegan and Niall Geraghty.
Next Jackpot will be €8,500. Mattock Rangers lotto draw takes place every Monday night at 8pm. Mattock Rangers lotto is sponsored by No. 3 Wine Bar and Restaurant.
SAFEGUARDING TRAINING
Safeguarding Training (Parish Information Session): Training is for all those who are vetted and have ministry with children or vulnerable adults. Training will take place in Ardee Church on Thursday 6th June from 7 - 9pm.
CHURCH IS 50
Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Ardee – Golden Jubilee On Sunday 8th September a Special Mass will be celebrated at 12noon in Ardee Church
to mark the 50th Anniversary of our Church. There will be a reception afterwards in Ardee Parish Centre.
PARTY TIME
Ardee senior citizens party will take place on Wednesday 29th May at 2.15pm. All are welcome. Those wishing to attend please contact Parish Office 685 0920 from 10am-4pm during the week to facilitate catering arrangements.
ARDEE BAND
Ardee Concert Band would also like to thank each and everyone who has purchased a ticket for their Senior Band Development Raffle. The limited remaining amount of tickets are on sale at €10 each. The top Prize to be won in this raffle on Sunday June 9th 2024 is €2,000 amongst 3 other cash prizes.
BALLAPOUSTA PATRUN
Ballapousta cemetery patrun and procession on Sunday 2nd June. When tidying family plots please bring home used flowers and wreaths. No dumping in Graveyard. Thank you for your co-operation.
SQUARE ACADEMY
Square United Academy Football for boys and girls between 4 - 7 years on Mondays at 6.30pm - 7.30pm in Monastery National School Field. All are welcome.
ST MARY’S ACADEMY
Ardee St Mary’s GAA & LGFA Academy - Gaelic Football for boys and girls between 3½ - 6 years has started on Saturdays from 10.15am - 11.15am. Free of Charge. All are welcome.
LITTLE WOMEN
Castlebellingham Castle hosts the wonderful Chapterhouse production of Little Women, to be staged at the castle on June 11. Gates open at 6.15pm and the show starts at 7.00pm. Please bring your own rugs or low-backed seating. Accessibility and seating varies by venue. In case of rain performances will continue. All tickets are non-refundable. In the event of cancellation due to exceptionally bad weather or other extenuating circumstances alternative arrangements shall be made.
COLLON CYCLING GROUP
Collon Community Together is looking for anybody locally who would like to take up cycling or get back in to cycling, they are looking to put together a social cycling group to go out for leisurely cycles on a Saturday or Sunday morning, beginners or experienced cyclists welcome. Contact them on Facebook.
MOSSTOWN CEMETERY
Mosstown Graveyard Committee are looking for new volunteers to help with maintaining the graveyard. Could you spare some time to help? If you can help, please contact the Committee via the parish email address.
ARDEE EDUCATE TOGETHER
Ardee Educate Together National School now taking enrolments for September 2024. Address: Dundalk Road, Ardee, Co Louth. Telephone: (041) 6853774 e-mail: ardeeetns@ gmail.com. Web Site: www.aet. ieFamilies welcome to call and view school during school hours 9.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. just give a quick ring in advance. Enrolment forms available from school office
VINCENT DE PAUL
Don’t forget SVP are there to assist you if you need help. The contact number is 087 645 8038. Just leave your name, number and a brief message and a Conference member will get back to you as soon as possible.
WEEKLY ENVELOPES
The Parish weekly envelopes have been distributed to the homes in the Parish (if you haven’t already received yours please contact Parish Office). You may wish choose to use a Standing Order/Direct Debit: Please Contact the Parish Office for details (Monday – Friday; 10am – 4pm; at 041 6850920). Once more the parish are most grateful to you for your support and your generosity.
ROSARY DAY
Rosary is prayed every day in Ardee Church at 2.30pm. All are welcome.
CREATIVE WRITING GROUP
New members are invited to Ardee Library every Friday morning from 10.30am- 12noon, Beginner and experienced writers welcome. Text of whatsapp 087 069 0625. No cost involved.
ARDEE BOXING CLUB
Ardee boxing club is now based in the old school at Ballapousta, close to the graveyard. New boxers are more then welcome .Anybody can come along, as long as they are over seven, and just bring a bottle of water. Each training session is €5 .. They are on Facebook so contact the club that way.
ARDEE CHOIR
Ardee Childrens Choir are recruiting new members. Rehearsals every Monday from 7.00pm-7.45pm. Children sing at 12noon Mass every second Sunday. If your son or daughter would like to join, phone Ruth on 087 296 7020.
BRIDGE CLASSES
Bridge classes for absolute beginners every Tuesday, at Ferdia House, Moorehall, Ardee at 7.30pm. Contact Tos on 086 805 9369.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
The Ardee and District Cancer Support CLG are on the verge of transforming so many lives - now and in the future - for those impacted by a cancer diagnosis.
The group can be contacted in various ways, including email at info@ardeecancersupport.ie
PHILIPSTOWN BINGO
Philipstown Community centre Bingo at 7:30pm and will continue every Thursday. All welcome.
ROVERS BINGO NIGHT
Hunterstown Rovers GFC Bingo is on, both in Ardee Parish Centre and online, on Friday at 8 o’clock.
You can get your books online now and be in with a great chance to win lots of cash prizes.
Order your books before 8pm Tuesday for printing or collection at the clubrooms on Thursday night, Preprinted books can be ordered from Amanda on 089 424 8931
Single book (includes Jackpot Page) €10
Double Book (includes Jackpot Page) €16
Books can be bought online up until 12 noon on Friday
ARDEE UKULELE GROUP
The Ardee ukulele group meet every Monday in Boylans pub in Ardee at 7pm. Beginner ukulele lessons are in the Parish Centre on Wednesdays, 7pm to 8pm, phone 087.1396469
BADMINTON
The club is based each Thursday from 8pm at Ardee Community School Gym
DUNLEER
CONTACT
All Dunleer parish news big and small welcome via email maryroserafferty@gmail.com. Please note that the weekly deadline for submissions is 9am sharp every Friday morning.
FACEBOOK HACKERS
There has been a spate of locals getting their facebook accounts hacked. Just to make everyone aware. Never give your phone number or any personal details to anyone via messenger even if it comes from a relative or a friends page, if you are ever in doubt speak to the person face to face.
WELL DONE RAY
Congratulations to Raymond Torris who won a silver medal with Dundalk Special Olympics soccer team.
LANN LÉIRE NEWS
Lannleire G. F. C Lotto results for May 15th. Numbers drawn are 1,6,19, and 22. No Jackpot winner. Weekly winners were Gavin Flood and Conal Martin. Next week’s jackpot is €9600.
MOTHERS & OTHERS - Mother’s & Others are up and running. Feel free to join every Wednesday at 6.45pm. Contact 087-2602953.
CONGRATULATIONS - Congratulations to Lily May Neacy who represented her County at Cumann na nBunscoil in Trim during the week.
Congratulations to Luke Grogan, Jason Savage, Dean Kearney and Finn Glennon ón winning Louth Féile D3. Senior team plays St. Joseph’s this Sunday May 26th in Dromiskin. Please show your support.
DUNLEER GOLF SOCIETY
The Dunleer Golf Society visited the Roganstown Golf and Country Club on Saturday, May 11th 2024 for their latest Event. The well manicured course provided the 28 members present with a good challenge of their golfing skills. Sean and Lorraine Mulroy, the Dunleer Inn, sponsored the outing and Sean presented Philip Grimes with the Overall Prize at a Presentation that evening. Philip won the prize after a count-back with Cepta Maddick. A wonderful performance from Cepta, both scoring 31 points. The other winners were as follows:- 1st Cat 1 Nicky Malone 30pts, 2nd Cat 1 Stephen McDowell 29pts, 3rd Cat 1 Gary Reynolds 26pts, 1st Cat 2 Cepta Maddick 31pts, 2nd Cat 2 Declan Martin 29pts, 3rd Cat 2 Declan Reynolds. Longest Drive Jim Sweeney, Nearest the Pin Jeanne Connolly, 2’s Pat Meehan and Jeanne Connolly.
The next outing is Mannan Castle GC on Saturday, June 8th 2024 and will be sponsored by Alan and Lorraine Shearman, Shearmans Bar, Dunleer.
ARDEE HOSPICE FUNDRAISERS
Dromin Fundraisers are holding their annual fundraiser for the Ardee Hospice on June 22rd. Cycle 60km or Walk 7 km start time 10 am. Cycle is €30, for the walk you can donate on the day. Refreshment stop for cyclists in fair green Ardee BBQ and refreshments supplied at the finish until 2pm. Start and finish is at the Village Saloon dromin. Cyclists must be wearing a helmet on the day or no entry
ORAN’S FOUNDATION
This year myself and many others are taking part in the VHI Womens mini marathon representing Team Oran, there is still time to sign up if you are thinking of doing ityourself https://www. facebook.com/VhiWomensMiniMarathon. The Oran Foundation was established in 2015 with the aim of fundraising for Oran and children with multiple and complex disabilities.They are looking to fundraise for Oran and other children with disabilities. The mini marathon is a special day to show our support for Oran and his family as well as raising much needed funds for his care.
They would love any support you could provide the foundation and please help spread the word by sharing their social media pages. ie https://www.facebook.com/ oransfoundation.You can donate by visiting their gofund me page https://gofund.me/b83a761c.
ACTIVE RETIREMENT
Interested in learning more about their association and upcoming activities? Contact Secretary, Kay McGovern, at kaymcgovern1@gmail.com.
SLIMMING WORLD
Group sessions are at 5:30 & 7:00pm in the Market House main street Dunleer every Wednesday.
WEDNESDAY WALKERS!
St. Kevin’s community centre has a Walking group every Wednesday from 7pm to 8:30. Get Out, Get Active and Get Ireland Walking (Bring a hi vis) ! Download the Irish Life My Life App and select St Kevins GAA to help achieve the steps challenge too.
BINGO
Bingo takes place every Thursday at 7.30pm Sharp in the St Kevin’s Community Centre. Great prizes to be won.
WHIST
Whist takes place every Thursday at 8.30pm upstairs in the St Kevin’s Community Centre
BOWLS
Philipstown Bowls is back running for winter every Wednesday evening from 8.10pm, New members always welcome and will be provided full tuition.
BABY & TODDLER PLAYGROUP
A baby and toddler playgroup takes place in St. Kevin’s Community Centre every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12pm. eircode A92A9W3, free and all welcome, no booking required.
BADMINTON
Badminton takes place in the Lann Léire Pavilion every Thursday from 8-9pm, New players from beginners upwards are always welcome.
TAEKWONDO
Taekwondo takes place in St. Kevin’s Community Centre every Tuesday from 6.15 to 7pm. Suitable for 6 to 15 years, Small Classes & reasonably priced. Get in touch with Michael 086320219 or kelly.michael123@gmail.com.
TERMONFECKIN YOUR NEWS
Please have all information with me by 8pm on Thursday evenings at nicholasduff66@ gmail.com or contact or text 0872486472. Any news or interesting items welcome in this column.
GOLF
The June Bank Holiday weekend is always an exciting one for those who follow the East Of Ireland Men’s Open Amateur Championship at the Co. Louth Golf Club in Baltray. This year Kingspan, the global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions has been announced as the new title sponsor of the competition. Co. Louth Golf Club Captain Martin Healy in welcoming the announcement said that Kingspan embodies a lot of what is needed to further enhance this tournament into the future and knowing they support the likes of Shane Lowry who won the 2009 Irish Open as an Amateur was just an added bonus of linking up with Kingspan.
There is a very strong field ready to contend for the trophy with this year’s tournament taking place from June 1st to 3rd and over the years many Irish greats have taken part, going on to enjoy major success in the amateur and professional ranks. Richard Beswick, Kingspan Sports Sponsorship Manager said that golf resonates deeply with its customers, mirroring the values the company cherishes as a business. He said the partnership with the East of Ireland Championship is a commitment to fostering local talent and building a sense of community through sport. There has also been another announcement regarding neighbouring Seapoint Golf Links.
Seapoint will be the venue for the 2025 Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Championship. CEO of Golf Ireland Mark Kennelly said the decision reflects dedication to featuring premier Golf Courses throughout Ireland. He said that with its impressive layout and history of hosting big events, Seapoint is an ideal venue for the Flogas Irish Men’s Amateur Championship. The next few weeks will also be busy at Seapoint with the OFX Irish Legends
Tour taking place from June 1922. The Men’s Junior and Intermediate Scratch Cup takes place on June 3rd and Seapoint will host a round of the Irish Golfer Event Series on September 15th which will be a Singles Stableford.
ST. FECHIN’S GAA CELEBRATIONS.
The big hall in the St. Fechin’s Community Centre was bathed in a green and white hue, giving a sense of celebration. It was the second part of a day of celebration in the Club following the earlier official opening of the magnificent building, this time to honour the 40th Anniversary of the Senior Men’s victories of 1983, 1984 and 1985. Thirty years of Ladies Football was also celebrated as well as recent Hurling achievements. The Joe Ward and Cardinal O’Donnell Cups were also on display during the night and also the Paddy Kelly, Colm Geary and Cuchullan Leinster League Cups for recent Hurling victories. Mark Stephenson again acted as MC for the evening.
To the cheers of all present, those great men who shone in those three years during the 1980s marched into the Community Centre to take their place at the stage. St. Fechin’s Chairman John Mc Evoy who Captained the team in 1983 welcomed everyone by saying it was a special celebration and an emotional one after all those years. Tributes were also paid to team trainers, selectors and those once involved now gone to their eternal reward. In 1983 St. Fechin’s were the underdogs in the Senior Championship final against Geraldines who were going for two in a row. However St. Fechin’s put a stop to that on a score line of 1-8 to 1-5.
What a celebration took place in the Grove House Dunleer afterwards that night. In 1984, the Joe Ward Cup returned to Termonfeckin following a 2-7 to 0-8 win over St. Joseph’s. Another night of celebration, this time in the West Court Hotel, Drogheda. It still feels like yesterday. Could there be a third Senior Championship win in 1985? Sadly it was not to be following a loss to Clan na Gael with the score being 0-9 to 1-3. However the team got back into their form by winning the League and taking home the Cardinal O’Donnell Cup. John
Mc Evoy then referred to the start of the Ladies Football 30 years ago and the Senior Hurlers on achieving 3 victories in a row. The late Niall Mc Eneaney who managed the Hurling team was remembered, described as a great hurling man and a wonderful asset to the Club. He said it was great the way the Club supported Niall’s family at that very difficult time. Jim Walker, who was one of the trainers along with Seamie Briscoe, said he came to train the St. Fechin’s team by accident given that he was a Rugby man and despite that he had more success as a GAA trainer. He referred to the ACC Cup victories during the 1980s and no matter what difficult training the team was put through, they responded. But he went away with the biggest prize of all, the friendship of everyone in Termonfeckin. Chairman of Louth GAA County Board Sean Mc Clean then made presentations to the team members present and they all received beautiful wallets with the St. Fechin’s Logo and a special publication entitled “What the Papers Say”. Matt Mc Dermott then spoke saying he was glad they played when they did as it is more difficult now. He said having a few pints afterwards was common then but now dieticians play a role in player fitness. The Award for Players “Player of the Year” was presented to Harry Haughney. Sean Mc Clean said it was a pleasure to be present and great to have nights like these. He said sacrifice and hard work achieves results, the Club has done great work building on the success of earlier teams and there is a great future ahead. It was then announced that the Club has its first Senior Camogie team, there is a new Gym thanks to the J.P. McManus Fund and that St. Fechin’s now have players on all County teams. The focus turned to the start of the Ladies Football 30 years ago. Peter Briscoe described how that came about as at the time it was not seen as a woman’s game but how things have changed. He referred to the late Marie Fanning who was desperate for Ladies Football to happen and how she met the challenge of getting 30 players who were interested. He acknowledged Joe Sheridan who came on board to manage and train the team. Joe Sheridan was on hand to present the trophy for Ladies “Player of the
Year”, the recipient being Orla Mc Evoy which was accepted on her behalf by Rachel Beirth. The spotlight then turned on the Senior Hurlers with Castlecomer man and former GAA National Director of Hurling Martin Fogarty saying that every Club in the country could take a leaf out of St. Fechin’s book. He said you don’t have to be good at it but the fact is that you are playing it and what St. Fechin’s are doing with hurling should be replicated in every county and he was very envious of the impact of the Club in the Community. Hurling Captain Peter Fortune announced the names of the Senior Hurling team members who were then presented with their medals. Players “Player of the Year” award went to Paddy Lynch. The inaugural Niall McEneaney Memorial Award for Young Adult Hurler of the Year went to Paddy Keane. A special presentation was made to Club P.R.O. Michelle Mooney for all her Public Relations and Social Media work. Of course a celebration like that could not happen without some refreshments so a big thank you to J. T Catering who provided a fabulous buffet supper which was well enjoyed by all. The evening continued with fabulous music provided by “Reverb”.
ST. FECHIN’S GAA
There was plenty of action for those wearing the St. Fechin’s and Louth colours. The main talking point was the Louth/Dublin Leinster Final clash in Croke Park. Yes, more heartbreak but what a Louth performance. Niall McDonnell was again superb in goals and Bevan Duffy also showed his experience as a County player. A narrow defeat but no doubt Louth will have gained massive respect from this game and have shown the ability to perform strongly. The road to Sam Maguire now beckons. Well done to the Louth U16 Camogie team on their victory over Donegal with St. Fechin’s represented by Caoimhe (Captain) and Saoirse Hynes and Niamh Kearney on the team. The Louth Hurlers had a win against Monaghan in Round 4 of the Nicky Rackard Cup as did the U17 Hurlers against Leitrim. The Louth U14 Ladies were unlucky in their All Ireland Quarter-Final against Offaly but well done to Anna Mc Donnell and Daisy Miller who gave a great performance. As regards green and white, the Senior Footballers had a win against near neighbours Dreadnots with Joe Corrigan having a fantastic game, scoring 0-5. Wins were also recorded for the U17 Boys against St. Joseph’s, the U14 Girls against Naomh Fionnbarra and St. Anne’s, the Senior Ladies against Naomh Fionnbarra, the Junior Ladies over Newtown Blues, the U16 Girls against O’Raghallaigh’s/Oliver Plunkett’s and the U14 Hurlers over Kileavy in the Tain Og Hurling League. Some losses were also experienced with the Junior Hurlers losing out to Knockbridge, the Senior Men defeated by St.Mochtas and despite an excellent performance, the U13 Footballers were unlucky against Baile Talun. In other games, the U8 Boys hosted teams from Wolfe Tones and St. Nicholas’s showing great skills and teamwork. The U12 Girls also hosted Stabannon Parnell’s/John Mitchell’s and have shown great improvement and progress in their games. The U9 Hurlers played their first Blitz at the Naomh Moninne pitch taking on 3 teams and fighting hard in all games. On the Friday evening leading up to the Louth/Dublin game, County footballers Bevan Duffy, Niall McDonnell and Paul Matthews attended the Club training session and addressed the very enthusiastic young players present. Club Chairman John Mc Evoy presented Bevan Duffy with a momento acknowledging his 100+ appearances with Louth. The Louth Senior Hurlers also held a meet and greet session at training last Tuesday evening and again delighted all the young players there by thanking them for all the support they have given the team. Two girls from both Parish Schools also got the chance to take part in the Cumann na mBunscol Louth V Meath Blitz in Dunganny Centre of Excellence. Well done to Mary Jane Rafferty who represented Scoil Naomh Feichin and Emily Garvey representing Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, Sandpit. St. Fechin’s as part of the Green Club Team initiative are holding a “Gear Swap” on May 24th. The Club is looking for any gear that is unused, outgrown or generally unwanted which could be of benefit to players. The Kelloggs Cul Camp takes place at Pairc Naomh Feichin from July 15th to 19th. Bookings are now open. The All Stars is held on Saturday mornings from 9.30am to 10.15am on the Astro Pitch. This is open to any children with additional needs from Junior Infants to 6th Class.
ST. FECHIN’S LOTTO
The numbers drawn were 8, 10, 16 and 17. There was no winner. The winner of €100 was Kay Newman. Winners of €20 were Gerry Lally, June Reilly, Harry Mc Ardle Snr, Josie Drew and John Freeman. The jackpot is worth €4,700. Thanks as always to Madden’s Centra for their very valued sponsorship and to all who support the Lotto. Tickets are available in the Post Office, at the Clubhouse gate or on the online lotto app.
MAY ROSARY
The Rosary will be said on Thursdays evenings at 7.30pm at the various Parish Grottos during the month of May. The next one on May 23rd is at the Grotto in the grounds of the Church of the Immaculate Conception.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION
Congratulations to the children from Scoil Naomh Feichin who received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion on May 11th. No doubt it was a great day for the children, their parents and teachers.
SEAPOINT PITCH & PUTT
The Seapoint Scratch Cup sponsored by Pat Greene was held on Bank Holiday Monday last in excellent playing conditions. The winner was Eamon Gibney from Castletown on a score of 17 under in the 6 Hole event. Eamon won on a countback with his back 18 better than Stephen Murray from Old County. The Inter Grade was won by Eamon O Neill from Ringcommons on 13 under- a full 4 shots clear of 2nd place. The Junior winner was Thomas Hodgins from Laytown with 2 rounds of 51. The Ladies Grade 1 winner was Seapoint’s Marlo Everitt with 110 strokes and the winner of the Ladies Grade 2 was Maria Cranney from Cloghogue with a score of 123.Well done to all. In the week prior to the Scratch Cup, Seapoint held their Open Scotch Foursomes which was kindly sponsored by SPM Insurance.The Gents winners were as follows. 36 Nett-Johnny and Colin Campbell, 36 Gross-Feichin Rath and Philip Reynolds. 18 Nett- Eddie Hockey and Brendan Rothwell, 18 Gross Pat Greene and Eamon O’Neill. In the Mixed section the 36 Nett winners were Denis McGuinness and Maria Cranney, 36 Gross-Tadgh Harrington and Suzanne Jordan. 18 Nett winners-Declan and Barbara Murphy, 18 Gross-Mickey and Noelene Bedford. In the Ladies competition, the 36 Nett winners were Ashlene McKevitt and Bronagh Crilly from Cloghogue, the 36 Gross winners were Marlo Everitt and Suzanne Jordan. Well done to all. Seapoint ran an 18 Gross competition over the past weekend and the winners were as follows. Senior-Johnny Campbell Snr 46, Inter-Eamon Furlong 49, Junior-Alan Fleming 52 and Ladies- Marlo Everitt 51. Again well done to all. No competition was held last weekend as members supported the Killineer Scratch Cup and Open Week, leaving the Club open for Green Fees.
TENNIS
The Termonfeckin Tennis Club’s new website is up and running and includes an online court booking system for its members. The Club may be contacted at 086-3431437 for membership and coaching queries.
TERMONFECKIN CELTIC F.C.
The Termonfeckin Celtic Summer Camp is provisionally scheduled for the week of July 29th. For more information and the Registration link, please email Termonfeckinfc@gmail.com The Termonfeckin Celtic Academy takes place on Sunday mornings. It is open to boys and girls from age 5 and upwards who are looking for a fun activity. All are welcome to try it out. For further details, contact Vinny at 0863444089. New players are always welcome.
BROOMFIELD CONTACT
Contact Gerard on 087/2729154 or E-mail: starinaghgerard1@gmail.com if you have an item for this Column, please submit to me by 12 noon on Fridays, as the deadline for submission is 1pm on Friday, please note the change. The same deadline applies on Bank Holiday weekends. Get in contact please if you have a bit of news for this column! Thanks for your co-operation as always.
SINCERE SYMPATHY
Sincere sympathy to the Mahon and extended Mahon Family and to all who are bereaved by the recent passing of Ken Mahon RIP., Abbey View, Slane. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time for you. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis. Ken was one of life’s gentlemen, and a privilege and pleasure to know. He was well known far and wide, working with Tommy on Russell’s Milk Round, a great team. Originally from Rossin, Ken will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew him.
Best Wishes is extended to all who are hospitalised or ill at this time. We wish you a speedy return to good health.
BIRTHDAY BEST WISHES
Congratulations to Pete Kealy who celebrated his birthday recently.
NEXT SOCIAL DANCE
The next Social Dance takes place in Teach Raithneach on Friday 7th June 2024, with a start time of 9pm. Music, Song and Dance with Ray Murtagh. Raffle and Light Refreshments. Admission €10. All Welcome!
5K WALK/RUN–DATE CHANGE
Broomfield and District Residents Association will host a 5K Walk/Run in aid of the GAZA Hunger Crisis on Saturday 15th June, starting out from Teach Raithneach, A92 W283, at 2pm, (please note the date change from that previously notified). The people of Gaza NEED our help. Please support to help the people of Gaza in their hour of need. Registration on the day from 1.30pm. Light Refreshments afterwards.
ART SUMMER CAMP
An Art Summer Camp takes place at Teach Raithneach on the following dates: Week 1 Monday 29thJuly to Friday 2nd August. Week 2 Monday 5th August to Friday 9th August. 10am to 2pm every day. Contact Mairead on 083 4861461 or Teresa on 086 3212986 for further information or to book a place
DATE FOR YOUR DIARY
Fancy learning some dancing! Cha-Cha, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Waltz Line Dancing and more. Beginner lessons starting on Wednesday 29th May with a start time of 8pm. Come along on the night , €10 per class. Everyone welcome.
ROSSIN ROVERS RECRUTING
Rossin Rovers play locally at Frank Taaffe Park, Monknewtown, and the Senior Women’s
Team are recruiting ladies from 16 years and over, no experience necessary. Contact David on 086 7783638 for further information.
GREEN FLAG
Hungry Hall Park has been entered for An Taisce’s Community Green Flag Award again this year,
WALKING GROUP NEWS
Tuesday evening walks have resumed, starting out at 7pm. Sunday walks continue all year round at 11am. New members welcome. For further information Contact Josie on 086/4458108.
TEACH RAITHNEACH ACTIVITIES AND CONTACTS
Sunday, Walking Group, Josie on 086 4458108
Monday, Kids Kast, 041 9836200
Monday, Collon Bowls Club, Tommy on 041 9826355
Tuesday, Tae Kwon Do, Michael on 0044 777850 9583 or 00353 860320219
Tuesday, Art Group, Niamh on 087 8173073
Wednesday, Yoga, Grainne on 086 8046781
Thursday, Men’s Shed, Kieran on 087 2728229
Thursday, Pilates, Olivia on
085 8001328
Friday, Chair Pilates, Mature Movers, Functional Fitness. Olivia on 085 8001328
Friday, Irish Dancing, Grainne on 086 3707227
Community/Text Alert, Malachy on 087 2765207
Broadband, Gerard on 087 2729154
Community Text Alert Number,086 2193103
Music Classes, Violin, Guitar, Ukulele, and Tin Whistle. Contact Rachel on 089-4940938 or racheltormey05@gmail.com
To book Teach Raithneach, Alice on 087 9360018
Association Correspondence Secretary, Eilis on 087 2598478
Association E-mail: teach. raithneach@gmail.com this will reach both Minutes and Correspondence Secretaries
The Teach Raithneach eircode is A92 W283.
BALLYMACAN SHEEPDOG TRIALS
This years Sheepdog Trials take place on Sunday 14th July 2024. More details nearer to the event.
MONASTERBOICE ANY NEWS
If you have any Monasterboice related news, in the form of text or pictures, please don’t hesitate to send them on to paddyholdcroft@gmail.com or 0862039501
All correspondences must be with me no later than 12noon on Fridays for publication in next week’s paper.
FEILE SUCCESS.
Congratulations to Naomh Mairtin’s U-15 Boys team on winning the Division 1 Feile, recently, in Darver. The lads had good wins in the group stage v Glen Emmets and St Joseph’s followed by a semi final victory over Clan Na Gael. In the final they had a deserved victory over Geraldines in a game where they lead throughout. The Gers rallied with a couple of well taken second goals, which ensured a tight finish but the Monasterboice outfit held on on a scoreline of 4-4 to 3-4. Well done to the squad of 24 who all got playing time and the coaches and mentors on a great win. The team will now represent Louth at national level at the end of June.
Thanks to Annmarie of Brennans Garden Centre and other contributors for Sponsoring a post match meal, it’s very much appreciated.
The team paraded the trophy at half time in the Senior Men’s league match v Sean O Mahony.
ONLY A FEW WEEKS LEFT TIL ....... .
...... Naomh Mairtin GFC holds a memorial 4 mile road race (Saturday June 1st at 10am) in memory of it’s great club man, family man and friend, Brendan Reilly who died tragically in September 2017.
This is a challenging chipped and timed run with proceeds going to the Naomh Mairtin juvenile section where Brendan was a Player/coach.
A fixed donation has been agreed to the Irish Heart Foundation with also a collection on the day to support this great charity.
It is hoped to see as many family, friends and former teammates of Brendan there on the day.
Under 14’s free of charge (no need to register) and welcome to run/walk but with no chipped timing.
Please click the link below to register.
https://www.myrunresults. com/events/brendan_reilly_4_ mile_memorial_run/5177/details
CAR BOOT SALE.
Kellystown/Monasterboice Wind Action Group is planning to hold a Car boot Sale in The Forge car park, some Sunday in June. ( Date not arranged yet), so start rummaging round your house and garden, even , God help us, the attic, to see if you have enough for a stall. Stalls will be €10 each and the profit is your own . Or you could donate items to the KMWAG stall . Any monies from your donated items would go to the group. Tea/Coffee will also be available on the day.
TEA DANCE.
Afternoon Tea Dance with Curtis Magee Sunday next, 26th May at 4pm. Adm €10 . Delicious Tea Served . Raffle on the day, so be sure to bring an extra fiver with you for tickets . Don’t miss out, this is going to be one fantastic afternoon of music & Dancing and you will be helping a very worthwhile local cause at the same time.
In a matter of weeks, French company, EDF will lodge their planning application for a Wind Farm in the parish of Monasterboice. By the time you read this Kellystown/ Monasterboice Wind Action Group and over 40 other groups will have marched on the Dail, demanding that the government up date the 2006 guidelines on wind farms. These guidelines were introduced when turbines were much smaller than the present day 180m high ones, proposed for Monasterboice. Up date next week.
FORGE NEWS
Yoga & Sound Bath with Sharon
and Fiona, Friday 24th May at 7.30pm. Phone Sharon on 086 266 5690 to book your place . Investment €30
Wee County Vintage Club is holding a Social Dance on Friday 31st May at 8.30 pm with the ever popular Athboy man Matt Leavy . Adm €10 Raffle on the night. Refreshment served .
N.MAIRTIN LOTTO
Results 08-05-2024 No: 07,13,17,31, Jackpot not won, €4,500 this week. Match 3 numbers winners, Daniel Dunne, this week wins or shares €150. Buy your tickets at the usual outlets or play online. If your not in you can’t win.
Results 15-05-2024 No: 05,21,25,31, Jackpot not won, €4,500 this week. Match 3 numbers winners, Noel & Helena Malone, this week wins or shares €150. Buy your tickets at the usual outlets or play online. If your not in you can’t win. See www. naomhmairtin.com Thanks for your continued support.
SLANE CONTACT
Contact Sean on 087-6783729 or email swall32@gmail.com if you have an item for this column.
SR BERNADETTE WOGAN OP
The death took place recently in Adelaide, Australia of Sr Bernadette Wogan, O.P. late of Gernonstown, Slane. Sr Bernadette was predeceased by her parents Francis and Bridget, brother Tommy, sister Kathleen and sister-in-law Eileen. She is mourned by her brother Jim, sister-in-law Della, nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, relatives and friends and her Dominican Community to whom sympathy is extended.
MUSICIANS TO BE HONOURED
Four Slane-based Trad musicians are to be honoured with lifetime service awards for their promotion and playing of traditional Irish music for over the last 70 years. The Darby brothers, Thomas and Martin, Michael Clarke and Paddy Reilly are to be honoured at a ceremony in Aras Muileann in Mullingar on Tuesday, June 4th. The quartet perform at the weekly Trad session in the Youth Café in Slane and over the years have featured on RTE Ceili House as well as at concerts all over the country including the Coleman Music Centre in Sligo, the Solstice Arts Centre Navan, and Drumshallon Forge and Heritage Centre.
VOLUNTEER TUTORS NEEDED
Age Action Ireland is looking for male volunteers to deliver one to one digital skills to members of Slane and District Men’s Shed. It involves teaching basic digital skills to older men improving their wellbeing and social connectedness two hours a week, from noon to 2pm on Wednesdays for five weeks. For further information please call 0818 911109 or email volunteering@ageaction.ie
COMMUNITY CENTRE DRAW
Congratulations to Christy Nulty who was the winner in the Slane Community Centre draw for May. To register your interest in joining the draw and a chance of winning €1000 each month follow the link on the Slane Community Centre Facebook page or contact any committee member The maximum number of members in the draw is 200 and places become available at different times throughout the year.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Parishioners please note that the Blessing of the Graves in Monknewtown, Dowth and Fennor cemeteries is on Sunday August 11th, starting at 2.30pm. The Blessing of the Graves on Hill of Slane and St Erc’s cemetery is on Sunday August 18th, starting on the Hill at 2.30pm. The blessing of the Columbarium Wall in St Erc’s will also take place on that day.
YOUTH CAFÉ
Slane Youth Café is hoping to be able to open its doors to the current sixth class students next September. In order to do that they will need parents to volunteer one night a week (Wednesday). Training and Garda vetting will be provided and please contact Blaithin on the Slane Youth Café Facebook page if you can help out.
GOLF CLASSIC
Slane Community Centre has their annual Golf Classic at Ashbourne Golf Club this Friday May 24th, with tee times available from 10am to 3pm. The cost is €400 per team of four and includes snack on the ninth hole and dinner in the clubhouse. Prizes for first and second placed teams, longest drive and nearest the pin. All funds raised will go towards the building of the community centre and sports hall in Slane. For further information contact maevecarbin@gmail. com or colmdevin2@gmail.com
SLANE CASTLE 5K
The Slane Castle 5k Trail Run/ Walk in aid of St Patrick’s NS Slane in association with
Meath Local Sports Partnership is back again this year and takes place on this Sunday, May 26th. This event takes place through the beautiful scenic grounds of Slane Castle, starting at 9.30am sharp. The route takes you through the forest and along the river finishing with the magnificent views of the castle in the background. There are t-shirts for the first 200 adults on the day and the first 200 under-16s. There are also medals for the first 500 over the line with plenty of refreshments afterwards. Early bird registration is €20 for adults, €10 for secondary school aged children, €5 for primary school aged children. Entry on the day is €25 per adult. Register at https:// eventmaster.ie
ROSSIN ROVERS
The club has a 40th anniversary Dinner Dance in the Ardboyne Hotel, Navan, on Saturday, June 1st, and tickets at €50 for the function can be purchased through the club. The last day to purchase tickets is this Sunday May 26th from 7pm to 10pm in Dolly’s Bar.
The Find the Joker fundraiser takes place in Dolly’s Bar every Saturday night with a big jackpot up for grabs. You can also play online by following the link on the club Facebook page.
The club is hoping to field an Over 35s team in the season ahead and is holding a training session at Frank Taaffe Park this Friday, May 24th (7.30pm) to gauge interest. Simply turn up on the evening or send a message through the club Facebook page.
TIDY TOWNS AGM
Slane Tidy Towns agm takes place on Tuesday, June 4th at 8pm in the parochial hall. All are welcome to attend and new volunteers are needed.
RATHKENNY 200 DRAW
Rathkenny GFC has launched its 200 Draw which guarantees €1000 cash prize every month for six months. The maximum number of entries is 200 and the entry fee is €100 for the six monthly draws from June to November. You can enter by following the link on the club Facebook page. The first draw takes place on June 16th.
BELLEWSTOWN CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com.
BELLEWSTOWN PITCH AND PUTT
Draw 14th May. Numbers drawn were 08-23-25-28. No Winner and the €20 winners were Leo Gibney, Sarah Tormey and Alice Bellew.
DULEEK BELLEWSTOWN GFC NEWS
Summer Camp: Due to the popular demand for local summer camps this year, our adult ladies player Rosie Hartford has added an extra week to her camp spraoi. This camp will take place in Duleek BNS from Monday the 1st of July to Friday the 5th of July. The camp is being run by primary school teachers and while it is being held in Duleek BNS it is not being run by the school and is open to both boys and girls. To book a place please email campspraoiduleek@gmail. com or text camp spraoi on 083 312 5469 .
TIDY TOWNS
Bellewstown Tidy Towns have installed beautiful seating, table, and planters near the racetrack. They look very inviting and all we need is the weather to enjoy them.
BELLEWSTOWN NS PARENTS ASSOCIATION
School Lotto - If you don’t already and would like to take part in the school lotto, go to: https:// www.ourfundraiser.ie/org/bellewstownns for more information and to sign up.
DONORE CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com.
SOLAS 21 – DONORE TIDY TOWNS
Solas 21 is the Tidy Towns Group for the beautiful village of Donore, Co. Meath. We are all locals who have pride in our village and wish to keep Donore a beautiful place. Please join us and help in whatever way you can.
In May, the festival of farmland biodiversity #farmlandbiodiversity celebrates native hedgerows that crisscross I Ireland’s landscape. To take part: share photos of hedgerows, use the hashtag above, and tag Biodiversity Ireland. Check out https:// biodiversityireland.ie/farmlandbiodiversity/ for resources such as this lovely graphic!I
Hedgerows are essential for maintaining wildlife diversity, supporting species such as badgers, owls, hedgehogs, stoats, blackbirds and innumerable plants, butterflies and other insects.
OBELISK BRIDGE UPDATE Restoration work on the Obelisk bridge outside Drogheda is being completed, and it is scheduled to open on Monday 20th May.
ST. MARY’S GFC
DARKNESS INTO LIGHT 2024 - At 4.30 am, a special game of football took place between our own Dads n lads and St. Colmcilles GAA Club Dads n Lads, to honour and remember those in our communities and past players who left us all too soon.
It was a lovely morning with lots of fun and laughter and some good football on display, while the Dads n Lads played on , our early rising supporters completed their Darkness into light walk around the pitch.
Special thanks to St. Colmcilles GAA Club for getting up so early and travelling over to St Marys Park for such a great cause
Thank you to the ladies for the lovely refreshments , especially the homemade scones.
Thank you to everyone who donated via our collection buckets and Revolut. We will be delighted to present a cheque to our local SOSAD Ireland group of an amazing €822.60.
CEMETERY SUNDAY WEEKEND
Blessing of the graves will take place on Saturday 13th July at 4pm in Donore old Cemetery, 5pm Leck Cemetery and 6:30pm in Knockcommon Cemetery. On Sunday 14 th at 11am in Donore Cemetery. Please note that no individual mass intentions will be taken cemetery Sunday weekend as all masses will be offered for those buried in our cemeteries.
DULEEK CONTACT ME
If you have any news items for this column, please contact me by e-mail annfinger@yahoo. co.uk or phone 086-3131708. Please have all information to me by 7pm on a Thursday for the following Wednesdays paper.
DULEEK WOMEN’S FORUM
33 ladies had a lovely day out in Castle Leslie on Tuesday 14th May last, even though the weather wasn’t good we had a lovely lunch followed by free time to walk to the Castle and garden’s.
DULEEK TIDY TOWNS
We are looking for volunteers to help with weeding and keeping the village looking at its best. If you are interested and would like to help out call Ann on 0863131708.
SINGING FOR TODDLERS
Down Syndrome Ireland Louth and Meath branch parent and toddler group, meet every 2nd Thursday from 10am to 11.30am in Duleek Bellewstown & District Community Facility. Facilitators Louise 086-0682043 / Brendan 083-8972044.
LIAG NA N’OG
Liag Na n’Og playschool on the Navan Road are accepting names for the September 2024 to June 2025 school year. Morning’s 9am to 12 noon with an option of 12 noon to 2.00pm, afternoons 12.30pm to 3.30pm.
There are also places available in our After School Service . For more information contact Sinead on 087-1774269 or e-mail duleek@crannsupportgroup.ie
CAMP SPRAOI
A summer camp will be held in Duleek BNS from Monday 24th to Friday 28th June. Open to boys and girls from Junior infants–6th class, run by 3 local teachers. For enquiries call 083-3125469.
CHARITY CYCLE
Thomas Lynch and Helping Hands Helping Communities. Volunteers are ready to take part in the Croi Heart and Stroke Foundation sponsored cycle on the 9th June in Galway.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2024
St. Cianan’s Church Duleek Duleek Girls NS 12 noon Saturday 25th May
St. Therese’s Church Bellewstown
Bellewstown NS 10am Saturday 25th May.
THE FEEL GOOD PROJECT
Group Creative Arts Therapy in Duleek Courthouse on Tuesdays 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th May from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Please bring a yoga mat and dress comfortably. Max 10 people per session. All free to the public. Book your class through eventbrite.
June Classes - Free Chaerobics Classes with Carmel
Tuesdays 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th June from 7pm–8pm in the Duleek Courthouse.
To book, please call 041 988 0523.
The Feel Good Project acknowledges and thanks Age & Opportunity and their funder Sport Ireland for funding our age friendly community classes this June.
DULEEK AGE FRIENDLY CHAIR PILATES
Duleek Age Friendly Chair Pilates is the only exercise class to music in Duleek for the 60 plus age group and is a great way to exercise.We meet in Duleek Courthouse on Thursday mornings from 11am to 12 noon. New members welcome.
DULEEK AFC LOTTO
Results 15 / 5 / 2024. Jackpot €4.000. Numbers drawn 7–8–12–15. No jackpot winner. 4 Drawn winners; €20 each. Stephen Loughran–Juicy Burke; Jeff Rooney–O Brien Family. Draw every Wednesday 7pm in clubhouse. Tickets available from any committee member.
All weather pitch available to hire; Monday–Wednesday–Friday evenings. Also weekends, including kids parties, etc. Further info re 086 1662018.
TULLYALLEN YOUR NEWS
If you would like to see your news in this part of the newspaper, birthday, wedding anniversary, achievement, new addition to the family or anything that might be of interest to the local community, please have no hesitation in contacting.
Give me a ring at 087-6366605 or pop me an email at hilary.a.kelly@gmail.com. News must be with me by Friday morning 10 o’clock to make the following week’s paper.
MORNING STAR POOL TEAM VICTORY
Congratulations to the lads from the ‘Morning Star’ Pool Team who took on ‘Well A’ in Division 2 league final last week. ‘Well A’ topped the league table at the end of the season but there was only one point separating both teams and the ‘Morning Star’ lads went on to win with an impressive 10-5 win. Well done lads.
PARISH NEWS
Volunteer for your Parish: Ministers of the Eucharist are now required to Minister at our 7.30pm (Saturday) and 11am (Sunday) Masses. Training will be provided. If interested, please leave your name with Sandra in the Sacristy, or contact Gráinne 086 3356475.
Volunteer for your Parish Seeking Additional members for our Adoration Team for Friday evenings at 7pm (Placing the Monstrance with Blessed Sacrament on Altar before Mass, placing Blessed Sacrament back into the Tabernacle and bringing monstrance back into sacristy) If interested please leave your name with Sandra in the Sacristy or contact Niall 086 3461087
Volunteer for your Parish: Seeking additional Ministers of the Word on a Saturday evening 7.30p.m. or Sunday morning 11a.m, on Holy Days of Obligations and Liturgical Celebrations such as Christmas & Easter. You will receive your preferred day/ time on weekend Masses. Training will be provided. If interested, please leave your name with Sandra in the Sacristy, or contact Rebecca 086 8674242.
Volunteer for your Parish: We are trying to develop a group to lead the Rosary for our parish for various occasions in the year including the Months of October, May, and in our Cemetery in November. If interested, please leave your name with Sandra in the Sacristy, or contact Niall 086 3461087
PARISH HALL CELEBRATION
The Parish Hall Committee was successful in securing an investment of €225,000 to refurbish the Parish Hall under the Town and Village renewal scheme and to celebrate this, they will all gather together this Sunday, 26th May. They are having a very special event in the Parish Hall after 11am Mass (11:45am).
They are inviting all those that were on the founding committee/ volunteers that originally built the hall to come and meet up with the new current committee. They are building on their legacy and think they have a lot to learn from them, but more importantly they want to acknowledge that it was their vision that they are reviving for our community for the next generation to come. It will be a magnificent event for the village, and all are welcome to come along on the day.
ROSSIN ROVERS 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Rossin Rovers have sent out the call for everyone to join them in a night of celebration for their Club Rossin Rovers AFC 40th Anniversary. They have said that the club would not be possible without the help of the local community, players, and members over the past 40 years. They would love If you could join in our Night of celebrations to reminisce on the club’s history while celebrating with them.
Their Dinner dance will be held in the Ardboyne Hotel Navan Co Meath on Saturday 1st June at 7pm. Tickets are €50pp and include 3 Course Dinner, Bus, Band and DJ until late.
Tickets can be purchased by scanning the QR code on their facebook page; inputting your name and number into Revolut on the numbers from their facebook page and inputting your name and number or call: Frank Taaffe 087 -1223290 or Louise Taaffe 087-7574099.
You can also pay via their stripe link. Tickets for their 40th Anniversary Dinner Dance are now on sale. Tickets will not be available to purchase on the night of Event so best to get them now before they are all gone.
GLEN EMMETS
Nursery Football has resumed and takes place Sunday 10am to 11am.
IRISH DANCING CLASSES
Aisling Nally classes take place in the Glen Emmets, Tullyallen from 3.30 to 4.30pm. Beginners are welcome and for more information contact Aisling on 085-7404892 or email: Aislingnallydance@gmail.com or message Aisling on the Nally School of Dancing on Facebook or Instagram.
Bingo
Bingo continues in the Morning Star on Wednesday nights from 8pm. Books ate €8 and Sheets just €2. Why not pop along and try your luck.
SOCIAL DANCE
Anyone who likes to have a bit of a dance might be interested in the Social Dance planned to take place on Friday, 7th June in Teach Raighneach, Collon, A92 W286. There will be lots of singing with Ray Murtagh, dancing, raffle & light refreshments for everyone who attends. Events kick off at 9pm and costs just €10. Contact Josie on 086-4458108 for more information.
THE WHOLE SHABANG SUMMER CAMP
The Whole Shabang Summer Camp is back again this year and is definitely one not to be missed. This camp has been going for quite a few years now and it just gets better every year. Tullyallen dates are 15th to 10th July and Philipstown is on 5th to 9th August. There will be lots of Arts and crafts, Football, Basketball, Dodgeball, Sane & Water Play, Gladiator, Tennis, Alligators Alley and Lots More. This camp is for ages 4-12 years old and promises to be gags of fun. Contact mark on 085-7280376 to secure your place as this one always books out fast.
GLEN EMMETS LOTTO RESULTS
The Glen Emmets Lotto draw sponsored by The Morning Star took place on Tuesday 14th May and the results are as follows. There was no winner of the jackpot for €7,700. The numbers drawn were 05, 09, 10, 12. The Lucky Dip winners who receive €25 each are Daithí Cusack, Sinead & Emer Cullen, Bríd Rooney & David Heery. Winnings can be collected in Centra Tullyallen or contact Fergal Sarsfield on 086 8212683. Next week’s draw is in the Morning Star with the grand prize of €7,800 up for grabs. This can be viewed live on the Glen Emmets Facebook page. Tickets are just €2 and are on sale in Centra Tullyallen or go onto the Glen Emmets Web page where you can set up your weekly draw numbers & payment.
ART CAMP
Summer camps are being booked at this time of year and one to keep an eye out for is the Summer Art Camp in Teach Raighneach, Starinagh, Collon. There are 2 weeks planned with the first week starting Monday 29th July to Friday, 2nd August, and week two starting Monday 5th August to Friday, 9th August. Camp starts each day at 10 am and finishes at 2pm. This is aimed at children aged 5 to 12 years old and costs €100 per child. Contact Mairead on 083-486 1461 (art teacher) or Theresa on 086-321 2986 (artist) to book your place.
ARDCATH/ CLONALVY CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com.
ARDCATH TIDY TOWNS
If anyone would like to be involved with Ardcath Tidy Towns, please WhatsApp 087 8354805 to be added to the Tidy Towns WhatsApp Group. Michael Fox Ardcath Tidy Towns Committee. If you happen to be in Ardcath any time soon, the village is looking very well with Spring Flowers and well done to all the volunteers involved in these floral displays.
ATHLETICS SUMMER CAMP
Cushinstown Athletic Club are delighted to be hosting an Athletics Ireland Summer Camp on Monday lst July to Friday 5th July from 10 am to 2 pm. You need to book directly with athletics Irealnd as places are limited. https://.athleticsireland.ie/clubs/ summercamps
SUMMER SOCCER CAMP
Cloghertown United Summer Soccer Camp takes place on the 15th to 19th July for boys and girls ages 5- to 14-year-olds. Places are limited so early booking is recommended. Contact Debbie on 087 2625017.
ST. VINCENT’S GFC
Masterson Park Development The first of their fundraising signs are up! These signs will keep the community updated on their fundraising efforts. Please help them move that thermometer and make this community amenity a reality! The development committee are delighted with the response to date and please remember to return your donation sign up form. The Committee have tried to ensure that every house in the parish received a donation pack. Please reach out to Maria Travers on 0879836530 if you did not receive one.
BETTYSTOWN CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com.
BETTYSTOWN TIDY TOWNS
If you’d like to get involved message us on Facebook and Instagram @bettystown_tidytowns or come along and meet us in the village on Saturday mornings between 9 and 11am. Come rain or shine, we are out on Saturday mornings. We were very glad to see the sun come out as we finished mulching the Tara Garden with bark.
Thank you for all the kind words today from passers-by about our work. It really lifted our spirits.
Lidl Ireland Bettystown have been very generous again and a big thank you to them for the donation of a pallet of compost and bedding plants. Lidl also kindly provided refreshments for our volunteers after a busy Saturday morning working around the village.
REPLACING THE DAMAGED TREES ON THE TARA ROAD - We would like to express our huge thanks to everyone for the donations to replace the vandalised trees on the Tara Road. We were overwhelmed by the generosity and speed of the response to our appeal. To update you all: We surpassed our target, but we can’t currently source the type of tree we want as it is out of season. In the autumn, when the trees are available again, we will purchase and replant them on the Tara Road. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Darren Ryan of Southgate Barbers for the donation of equipment to BTT.
COUNCILLORS GET TOUR OF CIVIC BUILDING
Cllr. Tom Behan said Councillors were given the grand tour of the new Civic Building right beside the entrance to the beach at Bettystown, which includes the long-awaited library. “Beautiful views yesterday as we received a tour of our brand-new Library and Civic centre in Bettystown, the building will consist of Meeting rooms, study areas, public toilets and showers, sensory room, beach wheelchairs, showers and of course our Library and much more. Whilst this was secured prior to my election I was always supportive of the development and supportive of my colleagues who championed it. I was happy to vote in favour of it and will continue to support positive development in our community. This is a fantastic development for east Meath and I’m really looking forward to it opening over the coming months”.
BEACH VOLLEYBALL
What exactly are the differences between indoor & Beach? This introduction to beach volleyball day is for EVERYONE! Parents, Teachers, Players, Coaches, Referees, Students, Newcomers. Bettystown Beach & Colaiste Na hInse, County Meath. May 26th, 10-5pm. Why not join us for some education and fun on the beach. Register FREE OF CHARGE https://volleyballireland.justgo. com/wor.../public/events...
ST. COLMCILLE’S GAA
Cilles Lotto Results 14th of May 2024. Numbers were 5-924-25. Next week the jackpot €2,800 so play now to be in with a chance of winning or sharing in this prize. Play online: https:// cilles.clubifyapp.com/products
Féile 24 Cilles Under 15 - Well done to our U15 Boys who took part in Day 1 of this year’s Féile. Three difficult games saw them through to the semi final, the date of which has yet to be confirmed. A very special thanks to @stultansgaa @stultanscortowngaels for hosting the tournament, Sean Newman Park is a special pitch and we were grateful to play on it.
LAYTOWN CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com
LAYTOWN TIDY TOWNS
Volunteers meet every Saturday morning at the car park outside the Coast Tavern from 10 am. to spruce up different areas of our village. There are a wide variety of jobs to be done around the village, so if you would like to join in, even occasionally, you would be more than welcome. Come along and meet us in the village on Saturday mornings between 9 and 11am. The flower beds along the Laytown Road look marvellous and are full of colour.
BEACH VOLLEYBALL
What exactly are the differences between indoor & Beach? This introduction to beach volleyball day is for EVERYONE! Parents, Teachers, Players, Coaches, Referees, Students, Newcomers. Bettystown Beach & Colaiste Na hInse, County Meath. May 26th, 10-5pm. Why not join us for some education and fun on the beach. Register FREE OF CHARGE https://volleyballireland.justgo. com/wor.../public/events...
LAYTOWN BETTYSTOWN YOUTH REACH
Huge thank you to Aine Community and Online Information Nurse who came to the centre today to deliver a workshop on behalf of The Marie Keating Foundation.
The Marie Keating Foundation Cancer Awareness Programme aims to help students and adult learners learn how to reduce their risk of cancer and how to spot the signs and symptoms early. The workshop was extremely informative, more details can be found on their website https://mariekeating.ie/cancer-information/
RECYCLE & RETURN IN FULL SWING - We made full use of our basket of bottles and returned enough for several packets of biscuits to share for the 3pm tea break.
We are asking all students not to throw out any bottles with the 15c return ‘R’ labelling and we will gather and return them together to purchase a treat for the centre.
LAYTOWN & BETTYSTOWN GOLF CLUB
Junior Academy Summer Camp - Join us for the first of 3 summer camps this June 19th , 20th and 21st. 3 days of fun and learning under the guidance of 2 PGA Professional’s. Places are limited so make sure not to miss out Classes run from 9.30am 12.30pm each day. Lunch and goody bags will be provided on Day 3. Registration €100.
LAYTOWN UNITED FC
Massive congratulations from us all to our u15s on winning the Josh Dunne Cup final 4-0. The boys were outstanding, with goals from Maeteo, Jack Sheeran, Finn McGuirk and Dylan Sherlock and Finn winning man of the match it truly is a day they won’t forget. Well done Mark, Gary, Ger and all the lads
SACRED HEART LAYTOWN
Church Offerings: Many thanks to all those who provide financial support for our parish. If you would like to make an online donation, please use the following details: Laytown Church, BOFIIE2D, IE08 BOFI 9033 2217 9835 76
Baptisms: Congratulations and welcome to Archie Curran who was baptised last weekend.
SONAIRTE
Drop in for your one-stop destination for sustainable living! Discover a wide range of everyday items crafted with the planet in mind, alongside fantastic organic options!
Embark on a serene journey through our nature trail and immerse yourself in the beauty of our organic walled garden.
Plus, don’t miss out on the cozy vibes of our vegan cafe, serving up delicious treats for you to enjoy guilt-free!
Join us in making a positive impact on the environment, one conscious choice at a time! Visit us today and be a part of the green revolution! We have eggs back in stock! Come get your organic eggs at Sonairte, sourced from Highdell Organic Farm in County Meath. We’re open Friday till Sunday - 10am-5pm
Another new workshop coming up on June the 8th, learn about the characteristic features of the bark and buds. Date: Sat 8th of June Time: 10:30am-12pm Location: Sonairte Eco Centre, The Ninch, Laytown .Cost: €15 per person. You can buy your ticket via the link in our bio.
More workshops happening soon at Sonairte! “Is beekeeping for me?” run by Brendan Murray When: SAT, 8th of June Time: 12pm-2:30pm Cost: Adult €15, Child €5 Where: Sonairte Eco Centre, The Ninch A92 D9XH Laytown. Get your tickets via the link in our bio!
ACTIVE RETIREMENT
East Meath Active Retirement Association (EMARA) meet every Thursday in St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Parish Rooms, Laytown Road, Julianstown from 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm each week. New members are always welcome to join this vibrant group of men and women. We have many events and outings lined up for the coming month. For more details contact Rose at 0868377033 and Eilish at 0863656951 .
MEN’S SHED
Meath East Coast Men’s Shed meets every Tuesday and Friday in the grounds of St. Colmcilles
GAA on the Piltown road. For more details contact James 0872706456 or Eoin 0860649447. Here we give a list of items made for our local community in East .
MORNINGTON CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com
STATEMENT FROM CLLR. SHARON TOLAN
“Outrageously, I’ve been accused of being seen removing candidate’s posters from the railings in Donacarney at 8.30am this morning. (Wednesday 15th May). For the record, I was notified by a passerby early this morning that all candidate posters had been cut down and were lying strewn on the footpath. I drove up at 8.30am, reattached my poster, tidied up posters belonging to Cllr Elaine McGinty, Cllr Stephen McKee and Maria White, and left them neatly stacked against the school wall, cleaned up the cable ties, and phoned all 3 to let them know”.
PUGWASH BAY MORNINGTON
The penguins have been making some lovely art of different insects. They have been full of chat about which their favourite insects are. Meanwhile the after schools have been kept busy with lots of art and crafts and fun games this week with Courtney.
With the good weather and the children being outside a lot we would like to ask all our parents to please bring in sun hats and sunscreen which can be kept here in the children’s classes for going outside. Thank you from the Pugwash Team.
DONACARNEY CELTIC F.C.
We are delighted to announce that once again we will host 2 FAI Football Camps on the 15th and 29th July. Bookings will open on Tuesday April 30th and places are limited and usually sell out very fast. Winners of the FAI Football Camps free places are Keira Edwards for boys and Erica Dunne for girls.
Congratulations to our U16 team who won the Ken McKay cup today in Ndsl cup final. Hard luck to our other teams who played their hearts out too but unfortunately it was not their day, but they will be back!
ACTIVE RETIREMENT
East Meath Active Retirement Association (EMARA) meet every Thursday in St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Parish Rooms, Laytown Road, Julianstown from 2.30 pm to 4.30 pm each week. New members are always welcome to join this vibrant group of men and women. We have many events and outings lined up for the coming month. For more details contact Rose at 0868377033 and Eilish at 0863656951 .
BLESSING OF GRAVES 2024
Cemetery devotions and Schedule for 2024
Colpe: Saturday 8th June at 7.00pm
Mornington: Sunday 9th June at 7.00pm
Reilig Mhuire: Sunday 16th
June at 7.00pm
St. Peter’s: Sunday 30th June at 3.00pm
Newtown Cross: Sunday 30th June at 5.00pm
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
St. Vincent de Paul for Assistance Ring 1800 677 777
If you wish to make a financial contribution, please ring 0872542408.
EAST MEATH MEALS ON WHEELS
Hot Meals are delivered to your home between 12.30pm and 1.30pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of each week throughout the year in the areas of Laytown, Bettystown, Mornington, Donacarney and Colpe. The charge is €5 per person per meal. If you would like to avail of this service or know of anyone who might benefit from this service, please contact us on 085-7570810.
EAST MEATH BRIDGE CLUB
The Bridge Club meets on Tuesday nights in Laytown/Bettystown Golf Club. Games start at 7.30pm sharp.
Bridge Classes for beginners and improvers take place in Laytown/Bettystown Golf Club at 11am on Tuesday
CURRAHA CURRAHA GAA
Lotto Results Lotto results for 13/05/24, (9, 17, 23, 24). Jackpot: €2000. No Winner. Lotto Envelopes are available in Swans, The Becks and The Snail Box. Please note the deadline for online entries is 6pm Monday. Jackpot: 1300. No Winner. Entries are available here - https://www.currahagaa.com/draws
LADIES FOOTBALL FINAL Ask any Gaelic footballer, camogie player or hurler what their dream is and most will tell you it is to play on the hallowed turf of Croke Park! On Sunday, that dream came true for Craobh Chiarain and St Vincents Curraha under age teams who provided the half time entertainment at Sunday’s Leinster SFC Final! They delighted the crowd at the break and can be so proud of their skills! Many thanks to their mentors for all their hard work and thanks to our own GDO Emily and her team of helpers who ensured the game ran without a hitch! We hope to see these girls back in their county jerseys in a few years’ time!
JULIANSTOWN CONTACT
Any news or items of interest contact Niamh @ 086 3477283 or email niamhuiloinsigh@gmail. com.
JULIANSTOWN TIDY TOWNS
The Julianstown Tidy Towns Committee is looking for volunteers to help Julianstown to become Ireland’s most attractive town. We usually meet every Saturday morning and last Saturday we replaced one of the Cherry Trees which had died and tidied some of the flower beds near the school. We have also replaced a Cherry Tree in the Community Garden and our outdoor Library has been completed and two new raised beds are being installed for the children in the village where they can do their own planting. Our 14 large planters are being replanted and they do look lovely coming through the village. They take a bit of work too as they have to be watered twice weekly during the summer months. To get involved, simply contact us at julianstowndca@ gmail.com or phone Niamh on 086 3477283.
Pride of Place 2024 - The closing date for entries this year is 5pm on Friday 31st May. The Categories this year are: Housing Estates, Towns and Villages, Bee and Wildlife Friendly Garden, Green Community Amenity, Green Kilo-meter, Community Group, Community Wellbeing, Youth Project, Community Age Friendly, Heritage, and Volunteer of the year. We are looking for Community Members to Adopt their Road, and Champion it in the Green Kilo-meter Category. Please get in touch if you can help Would you know of anyone who would like to enter their garden in this year’s Pride of Place? If you do please email Julianstown Tidy Towns on julianstowndca@ gmail.com
Public Meeting – Julianstown
Tidy Towns are inviting all its residents to a Public Meeting on Wednesday 22nd May, 2024 at 7.30 p.m. in The Lime Kiln, to discuss the future of the Community Garden. We have a decision to make as to whether we continue to work in the Community Garden or hand it back to Meath County Council. However, if we do that the Council does not have the manpower to maintain it and a ‘Dunta’ sign will probably go up! Do you have an opinion on it as we have had some great moments in the garden with Santa, Halloween, Summer Festivals, planting days etc? The garden is maturing nicely and we do have some great plans for it, but help is getting very thin on the ground, and there is only so much a few of us can do. Please come along to this meeting as it is a very important part of our community so that we can ensure it is kept for future generations to enjoy. Children love the garden, after school children come to the garden and adults drop in all the time and enjoy chilling there. Drop into the garden and see for yourselves!
RÁS TAILTEANN
Rás Tailteann will be going through Julianstown on the 26th May, between 1 and 1.30 pm.
There will be a special sprint at the clock tower outside Lime Kiln pub in memory of former winner Ben mc Kenna and his brother Oliver who died last year both stalwarts of the event. Would love to see a big crew out in Julianstown and thanks for getting involved.
We did a great job with the Giro d’Italia so how about putting up some bunting etc and line the road through the village? Good luck to all the cyclists taking part in the Rás Tailteann from Julianstown
BABY MASSAGE
New term of baby massage classes has started in Julianstown Community Centre. Classes are suitable for babies aged 0-12 months.
JULIANSTOWN YOUTH ORCHESTRA
The Julianstown Youth Orchestra meet from 5.30 pm to 6.30 pm every Friday at Colaiste na hInse, Bettystown while Orchestra members rehearse from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm. To find out more about the Orchestra contact julianstownyouthorcheastsra@gmail.com
ST. MARY’S CHURCH OF IRELAND
Summer work parties: During the summer there will be work parties on Tuesday evening. Can you spare an hour a week to help tidy up the church grounds and assist with some small jobs around the premises? Every summer there is opportunity to help in this way and, as with so much, volunteers can be thin on the ground. Please consider coming along, any Tuesday (unless the weather is so bad it would render outside jobs impossible).
Charity collections: The Charity for the month of May will be for the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. This hospital is run by the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem and the Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough has long had an association with the hospital.
We will channel our fundraising through Dublin Diocese. You will find some information about the hospital at the following link:
https://www.ireland.anglican.org/news/12280/ anglicanowned-hospital-endures-catastrophic-situation
ST. MARY’S AND ST. PATRICK’S PARISHES
Services: St. Mary’s Church, Julianstown: Saturdays; 7pm, Sundays 11.30 am
Moorechurch Cemetery devotions:Mass and blessing of Graves in Moorechurch Cemetery will take place on Sunday, 7th July at 11:30 am. Please alert friends and family outside our parish.
Baptism: We welcomed Oliver Clarkin and Padraig O’Dowd in Baptism recently.
Work continues at St. Mary’s Church: Work is continuing on the Skylight repairs in St. Mary’s Church. The duration of the work will be dictated by the weather. It is planned that this work should be completed in two weeks. During the work in St. Mary’s, all weekday masses will take place in St. Patrick’s church. Sunday Mass timetable will continue as per normal schedule .We are asking people to please donate towards the cost of this project. All donations will be very gratefully received. A marble plaque will be erected in the entrance hall acknowledging all who donate towards this project. “Benefactors” will be inscribed on the plaque. The plaque will ask all who read it to please pray for all benefactors and all the above named.
First Friday calls and Hospital Visits If you, or a member of your family, would like a visit from Fr. Brendan, please contact our Parish Office or contact Fr. Brendan on 087-2204788. Please don’t take for granted that someone else has already done this. (God be with the days, the Hospitals gave us the information but now with GDPR regulations they are unable to, so the information must come from a family member).
STAMULLEN IN MEMORY
Sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Brian (Bug) Bellew, late of Lourdes Square in Drogheda and formerly of Bellewstown who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday May 10th last. Following his Funeral Mass which was held at Our Lady of Lourde Chapel in Drogheda, Brian was Laid to Rest at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Duleek.
SPEEDING
In recent times there has been much spoken, written and discussed about too many deaths on Irish roads as a result of road traffic accidents and that a contributory factor in so many of these fatal accidents appears to be that of speeding. However, no matter what has been spoken and written about concerning the dangers of high speed, it appears that much of this is falling on deaf ears. As the area of Stamullen village is fast changing from a `back-water` sleepy rural village into that of an ever expanding urban centre, the population continues to rise year-onyear since the beginning of the New Millennium. It has become noticeable and has been commented on by many parishioners regarding the high speed of many vehicles in and around the roads in the centre of Stamullen. Short runs from most of the residential housing estates to the local shops and other amenities in the area, yet the speed of some of these vehicles is way over the limit. As an example, there is a very short stretch of road from the entrance to the large Estates on the Kilbreckstown/Silverstream road to that of Stedalt Cross; little over 200 metres in length, however it is frightening to see some of these vehicles driving at very high speed on this small stretch of road where people including many, many children are out walking and cycling. The road here in the vicinity of Stedalt Cross towards Silverstream also narrows, which results in motorists having to `give way` to large vehicles such as school buses, lorries, tractors, etc, in order to allow other vehicles pass in safety. Speeding on other stretches of small roads is also a problem on the Cock Hill road and in the vicinity of Goughs Corner. While many householders and families who reside on both the Stamullen to Milestown/Tobertown Road and the Gormanston Village to the Flemington Road into the fair Fingal are also making comment regarding the very high speed of vehicles travelling along these routes at all hours of the day and evening. Perhaps it is time for the Local Authority to install speed ramps in the vicinity of Stamullen Village similar to what has already been installed in the village of Gormanston, while a few `warning-signs` to inform motorists to `slow-down` while travelling along the rural roads between Stamullen and Fingal!
COMMUNITY GARDEN MEETING.
The Julianstown Tidy Towns is inviting everyone to come along to a Public Meeting regarding the future of the wonderful Community Garden which is located at the north end of the village.
The meeting will take place at the Lime Kiln in the centre of Julianstown village. The Committee of the Julianstown Tidy Towns has stated that they have to come to a decision either to continue to develop and enhance the beautiful Community Garden or hand it back to Meath County Council.
The fear is that, if it is handed back to the Council, they may not have the `manpower` to continue the great work and upkeep of the garden and that perhaps as a result of this, the Community garden may have to be closed to the Public.
So, this is a real issue which needs to be discussed and the place to air your thoughts and views is at this Public Meeting which is taking place this Wednesday May 22nd at the Lime Kiln beginning at 7.30pm.