Jam-packed new season announced at the Hawk’s Well
THE Hawk’s Well Theatre has announced a bumper new season, with its latest brochure for the first third of 2023 arriving hot off the presses. Featuring all the shows and events taking place during the January to April, the booklet is available to pick up at the theatre, at locations all over Sligo, and to view or download on the theatre’s website.
Among the many highlights this season, the Hawk’s Well welcomes back Mikel Murfi with ‘The Man In The Woman’s Shoes’ and ‘I Hear You and Rejoice’, there’s an abundance of productions from Sligo’s schools and colleges, and a celebration of one of the greatest comedy series’ of our times. Elsewhere, there’s music, drama, comedy, workshops and more on offer over on Temple Street. There’s an abundance of gigs and more for music fans of all genres as the year begins. Back in its traditional early January slot, Reeling in the Showband Years takes a look back to yesteryear with showband legends including Red Hurley, Linda Martin, Keith and Lorraine McDonald, Shaun O’Dowd and Dave Lawlor. It’s a night not to be missed.
Eagles’ tribute Take It To The Limit play at the venue in January, while in the same month Kieran Quinn will perform over four nights for his 31st Theme Night. The same month, West Atlantic Sessions will celebrate the incredible folk music talent in the region, and Michael Rooney and June McCormack with Niamh Dunne and Sean Óg Graham will celebrate their new albums with a special show at the theatre. February sees country star Patrick Feeney bring his Country and Gospel show, while MultiGrammy-winner Tim O’Brien teams up with Jan Fabricius for a night of rootsy acoustic instrumentation and sweet harmony singing. The Special Consensus Bluegrass Band will do similar as the month begins, while four of traditional music’s finest in Noriana Kennedy, Oisín Mac Diarmada, Mirella Murray and Donogh Hennessy come together, in mid-February. In March, Cliona Hagan will be singing from The Dolly Parton Songbook, while it’s time to rewind with 80s Icons for a night of classic pop nostalgia, in what’s sure to be one of the most fun nights of the season. Songbird Eddie Reader also returns in March, while three titans of the Irish music scene, Máirtín O’Connor, Seamie O’Dowd and Cathal Hayden, team up for a special night at the end of the month.
Also happening, Sligo Academy of Music present A Night for Stan, a farewell concert to a retiring giant in the Sligo community. April is also jam packed with musical treats, with Deirdre Correia launching her latest CD, as Hope & Feathers, Queen of Country Philomena Begley bringing her ‘It Ain’t Over’ tour to Sligo, and Jack Lukeman celebrating 25 years as a performer.
The Irish Chamber Orchestra will be joined by the amazing Kristian Bezuidenhout who is one of today’s most notable and exciting keyboard artists, while Irish singer-songwriter Karan Casey will be appearing with Niamh Dunne and Sean Óg Graham. In theatre, there’s two chances to catch the brilliant Mikel Murfi as the critically acclaimed The Man in the Woman’s Shoes returns in January, while I Hear You and Rejoice takes place in early April. Windmill Players present Martin McDonagh’s The Cripple of Inishmaan in January, while Calry Drama Group’s take on Calendar Girls, the muchloved show about courage and strength that comes from friendship, is on towards the end of the month.
February brings Gina Moxley’s Danti Dan, a funny tale of the sexual-awakening of five innocent youngsters, Skreen-Dromard Drama Group stage comedy The Will to Surprise, and Sligo Musical Society take on Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic The Sound of Music.
March sees the Mercy College and Summerhill College present hip-swiveling, lip-curling musical fantasy All Shook Up, while Jon Kenny and Norma Sheahan star in hilarious dramatic comedy ‘The Matchmaker’, and Ursuline College Sligo TY Students present The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Finally, April sees Pop-Up Theatre’s production of hit musical
Hairspray, while The Doris Day Story promises a compelling musical journey through the life of the film icon, incorporating some of her greatest songs. Tickling the funny bone this season, there’s stand up, and a night celebrating all things Father Ted. In February, in his brand new show Unblocked Jason 2.0, Jason Byrne will bring an evening of pure unadulterated old fashioned fun, followed by Neil Delamere, who takes his new stand-up show Delamerium to the theatre in March. Offering a slightly different slant, Dermot Whelan will give attendees the tools to destress through meditation and find more happiness and fulfilment, in Mind Full. A certified meditation teacher, the show will be delivered in his unique comedic style. Meanwhile, March also sees Father Damo himself, Joe Rooney, host ‘A Celebration of Father Ted’. Looking back at one of the greatest sitcoms ever made, Joe will host a screening of classic episode ‘Old Grey Whistle
Theft’, take you behind the scenes, and set a Craggy Island quiz. For the smallest theatre goers, the much-loved ‘Babies’ series of shows continues, with Folk Babies, Edelweiss Babies and Acoustic Babies happening during various Sundays throughout the season.
There’s also an actionpacked show featuring dramatic adaptations of children’ s stories, as Maye School of Speech & Drama struts its stuff in January, and Kyle Riley takes his Little Folk On the Road tour to Sligo in February. For families, Theatre Lovett go down to the woods for The Teddy Bear’s Picnic in February, while BabyGROOVE will get parents and children dancing in April.
That’s just a taste of what’s to come as 2023 begins. With all this to look forward to plus magic, events for schools, dance, talks, and a very special Ladies Night at the Well in time for International Women’s day, there’s something for everyone at Hawk’s Well theatre this season.
Strandhill Airport was a hive of activity on Sunday for the first Strandhill People’s Christmas Market of the year.
BALLYMOTE RESOURCE CENTRE
A free community Christmas lunch in conjunction with Ballymote
FRC and the Gardai will be held on Tuesday, December 6, from 12 noon until 5pm at the Coach House Hotel, Ballymote. Booking is essential and must be made by the 1st of December. Please telephone 0719197818 to book a place.
Every Friday from 9am until 5 pm.
A men’s group has started at Ballymote FRC. It meets once a week on Thursday’s at 7pm. Everybody is welcome.
Family support is available at Ballymote FRC. Please call 071-9197818 for more details.
An IT clinic is available at Ballymote FRC. Help is available to anyone needing help with computers, tablets, smartphones, or laptops
Free food packages are available under the FEAD program for people on low incomes. Call 071-9197818 for more details. A brief form must be completed. To book a place, please email ballymotefrc@gmail.com
MERVILLE COMMUNITY CENTRE
By Richard Deignan
Merville Community Centre and Dreamchasers Childcare will close for Christmas and new year holidays from close of business on Wednesday, December 21 and re-open 9:15am on Thursday, January 5. A peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all our patrons, friends and the wider Merville Community. A Síochánta
Nollag agus Bliain Nua Shona.
With November bringing the coming of the darkest evenings, please keep an eye out particularly for elderly neighbours and those living alone. Be wary of opening the door after dark or allowing anyone you don’t know into your house. Stay Safe this Winter by watching out for all in Our Community.
All Users of the Merville Centre are asked to exercise caution when driving in the Area of the Car Park Entry and Exit when on Drop Off and Pick Up, as these times are extremely busy. Think Safe!
Merville Community Centre facilitates on behalf of our community the provision to eligible persons of
Social Monitored Pendant Alarms, under the Seniors Alert Scheme that is administered by Pobal. Equipment funding is available for eligible persons over 65 years for the installation of an monitored alarm on a landline in the person’s home. The alarms are now available for persons aged 65 or older and living alone, living with another person who meets the terms and conditions, living alone for significant periods of time during the day, or is a carer to someone else in their household. First year monitoring is now free for all new applicants.
Subsequent annual monitoring charges are then payable by the user. Contact Merville Centre Office at 071 9150029 for further information.
Local Voluntary and Community Groups are reminded that any notices for publication can be emailed to mervilleycc@gmail.com or hard copy left into the Merville Centre for inclusion in our Local Notes and our Social Media Platforms.
BALLINACARROWCOOLANEY
By Christina Clarke
SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is extended to wife Mary, daughters Helen, Cathy and son Leslie, sisterin-law Teres Frizzell, Coolaney, on the recent death of Les Booth, Cloonshanbally, Culfadda, Co Sligo. SYMPATHY: Sincere sympathy is extended to Kathleen Taaffe, Knockadoo, Coolaney on the recent death of her brother Patrick Joseph (Pake) Ougham Bunninadden whose funeral took place after 12 noon Mass in the Church of the Sacred Heart Bunninadden and burial in Kilturra cemetery.
Well known resident of the Mill Centre,
Coolaney Joe Kelly will launch his book ‘Mr Attention to Detail’ in Easons Book Shop Sligo on Friday December 9 at 3pm, musician Kieran Quinn will launch the book. The proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to The Irish Motor Neuron Disease and the Alzeimers Society of Ireland. Please note that the book is now available in the Mill Centre Pharmacy, Fresh Today, Bella & Brava and O’Grady’s shop Coolaney. All support will be greatly appreciated for the above great and worth causes. All help will be greatly appreciated. ADORATION: Continues every Wednesday night from 7pm to 9pm.
Reminds all members to be extra vigilant as the longer and darker evenings are here, if you see anything you believe suspicious call Ballymote Garda station on 071-9189500 immediately and report, call 999 if you do not get answered in a reasonable time. Check with older members of the community and those who live alone. If you know anyone over 65 who wants a personal panic alarm call 0866000757 for application forms. If somebody you know has a panic alarm remind them to check that it is in working order by activating the red button.
Coming soon Ballinacarrow Text Alert will hold a property marking day in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for further details or contact a member of the text alert group. Anyone with property to be marked, all you need is your Eircode.
Has commenced in Collooney and Ballinacarrow for parents of First Communion children. It is a diocese- wide initiative. The Sunday Masses will be part of this programme. Thanks to all who are presenting this programme in the parish for both schools, and to the parents and teachers.
CARDS: The card game continues every Thursday night in the community centre Ballinacarrow at 9pm. All are welcome.
Ballinacarrow Text Alert will hold a property marking day in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for further details or contact a member of the text alert group. Anyone with property to be marked, all you need is your Eir code.
For Lower Main Street, Collooney as part of a consultation process with Sligo County Council. For further information and comments contact Declan Noone on 087-8180385.
The Tubbercurry Access Bus travels to and from Sligo every Wednesday morning picking up people from the place of residence, travelling to Mullinabreena, Coolaney, Ballinacarrow etc.
It arrives at Tesco car park at approximately 11am and departs again from the car park at 1pm.
This is a great service that allows people to avail of their bus pass. FARMERS’ MARKET: The Farmers’ Market continues in Achonry every
Saturday morning from 10am to
1pm.
Great selection of fruit, vegetables, eggs and many more items on display.
CARDS: The card game resumes after a long absense due to the pandemic in the community centre Ballinacarrow at 9pm, looking forward to welcoming back all the card players and hopefully some new ones, everyone very welcome.
A proposed new traffic management system for Lower Main Street, Collooney in consultation with
Sligo County Council. For further information contact Declan Noone on 087-8180385.
Please note that the car park at the rear of the Mill Centre is private property and that the owners/residents have asked that the people of Coolaney respect the signs at the exits and entrances to the development.
There was a near accident recently which thankfully was resolved and nobody was hurt.
Summer classes starting soon in the community centre Coolaney, in Guitar and Ukulele, beginners and improvers, group and one to one classes. Book now: message John Farren Music on 086-1529429.
Meet on a weekly basis and anyone who needs to contact them can do so by phoning: 087 1868494 leave name and number if you get the answering service.
Continues every Wednesday and Saturday nights, the balls can be purchased in O’Grady’s shop and PK Meats Main Street Coolaney.
NOTES: Anyone, who has notes and would like to include them in the Sligo Weekender please call 086 1637834 or email christinaclarke265@ gmail.com.
CARRAROE
By Pat Benson
To have events/ news items included in Carraroe section contact 0872222835 or email carraroesligonews@gmail.com no later than Sunday each week.
This meeting to consult local communities on the 2023 plan will take place in Sligo Park Hotel this evening, Thursday at 7pm. All members of community welcome
Garda Mark Connor is now the assigned Community Garda for the Carraroe area. Mark can be contacted at Sligo Garda Station on 0719157000. You can leave a message and Mark will call you as soon as possible and if necessary, he will visit you. Should you have any concerns appropriate to An Garda Siochana you can communicate with Mark directly. If an emergency you should call 999 or 112.
FUNDRAISER: The annual St
John’s Soccer Club Raffle will be held this December and as usual, will have some of the best goodies
in the northwest. Our Christmas Club Raffle is increasingly vital for the sustainability of our finances. With more teams, more players, and more training than ever; we need to cover the costs of facilities, equipment, Astroturf fees, referees’ fees, and everything else that makes this club great. Our Christmas
Club Raffle is increasingly vital for the sustainability of our finances. With more teams, more players and more training than ever; we need to cover costs of facilities, equipment, Astro turf fees, referees’ fees and everything else that makes this club great.
You can join the raffle from as little as €5 or why not buy 10 tickets this year. Please share this as widely as possible with friends, neighbours and family and encourage as many as possible to join our draw and support our club.
Draw will take place December 20 via Facebook Live.
The Parish Choir has returned for rehearsal on Monday nights at 7.30pm in the Church. All members are asked to attend, and new members are welcome.
The choir will help out at the 7.30pm Saturday evening Mass and Sunday at 9.30am.
We appeal to people not to discard vaping boxes or containers on our roads as volunteers have to pick them up after you.
Bring home and bin them Thank You.
We are working on the final draft of the Parish Calendar for 2023. If you would like to help sponsor the project, please call to the sacristy after Mass or to the Parish Office.
We have vacancies for all our parish ministries such as readers, eucharistic ministers, collectors, members of the altar society and parish counters.
carraroe@holywellsligo. com Phone: 071-9162136, Mobile: 0878198466 for further information or call into the Sacristy after Mass.
We are now taking booking for weddings for 2023/2024 and onwards. Please contact the Parish Office at Email: carraroe@holywellsligo.com Phone: 071-9162136, Mobile: 087-8198466 for further information.
Some space is available in the morning, afternoons and evenings. Please contact the parish Office for booking. Booking sheet for all groups using the Hall will be left in the Kitchen area. Please fill in and return to the Parish Office as soon as possible.
We want to highlight this facility is for Community use and not for use by commercial businesses. We want to thank residents of Carraroe for the respectful use of the Recycling Banks to date. Do not leave rubbish beside the bins. Please note the facility is monitored by recorded CCTV. 24/7.
A manual on environmental justice which is a digital toolkit and aims to resource and connect organisations across Ireland on intersectional environmental issues. This toolkit has been developed as result of a comprehensive needs assessment designed to identify the key gaps in support for environmental and social justice groups across Ireland. -for details visit www. communitylawmediation.ie
CADRA is always looking for proposals for new projects in area. Feel free to contact any member and make suggestions. You can send your suggestions for consideration to cadrasligo1@gmail.com
People walking their dogs in Carraroe are requested to remove fouling. Please bring home and bin. Do not dump into hedges. Pooper- scoopers are available free from Sligo Co Council,
Dance class each Wednesday from 8.30pm to 9.30 pm with music and Social Dancing afterwards. -for more information call Frank on 0879809432.
Each Friday night at 9pm. Learning to Jive, Quick
Step, Foxtrot, Slow Waltz, Old
Time Waltz, with a mixture of Line Dances & Sloshes for good measure and fun. Refreshments served. A lovely sociable night to meet up with friends. Come on your own or bring a friend or partner. Chat to our tutor Christopher on 086 8474744.
Great to see the development is progressing well with the solar powered lighting, fencing surfacing installed recently. It will be a fantastic addition to our community and it deserves financial support by the people of Carraroe. A funding drive is ongoing with the aim of selling 300 tiles. Each tile costs €150.
Purchasers can either pay €150 in a lump sum or arrange a monthly direct debit of €13 for 12 months. -for more information visit St John’s FC site to purchase on line or discuss with any club member. Your support is appreciated
Lakeview Guild is delighted to be back in Carraroe Community Centre.
New members always welcome – for mor information call president Mary Dunbar at 087 6669533.
Our chair exercise group has recommenced each Thursday at 11am in Carraroe Community Centre.
This programme is professionally led by Arita Loughlin and last one hour. Places are available and all Covid safety procedures are observed.
Come along and join us for a very enjoyable physical exercise session – for more information call 087 2222835 and you can be added to the special What’s App Group for regular reminders.
Lotto Jackpot is €19,100. Numbers drawn are
3,4,8 and 16. €25 winners Darragh McGarty, Joe Conlon, John McAndrew, Richard Nugent.
Next draw is Saturday, December 17.
Tickets are available in the following outlets – Molly Fulton’s, Canning’s, Pearse
Road, McMorrow’s, Cairns Road, Applegreen, Pearse Road, Clifford’s Electrical, Londis, Cleveragh Road. or any club member. You can also play on line at St John’s GAA webpage
Jackpot is €400. Last draw numbers were 3,4,8 and 20. Jackpot not won. €20 winner was Olivia McTernan. You can now do a local Lotto and help our National School in the process. one line for €2.50 or three lines for €5.
To support the draw visit www. ourfundraiser.ie/org/carraroens.
We meet on Mondays at 11am.
Currently we meet at the car park opposite Sligo Sports Complex. Anyone interested can come along or contact 087 2222835 and we will add you to the WhatsApp text system so you get notifications.
Cadra would urge all eligible residents to avail of the scheme as it a great comfort and support to people. If you know anyone interested in having the system we can arrange. Anyone over 65 is eligible.
Anyone that already has the alarm is advised to wear the pendent at all times including in bed.
Application forms are available from any of the following Bridie McLean 086 3998925, Pat Benson 087 2222835, Dympna O’Loughlin 087 9303540, Mary Dunbar 087 6669533 or email cadrasligo1@gmail.com
You can also down load form from webpage cadra.ie.
Community Centre Sligo 11am to 4pm. Over 40 stalls, crafts, gifts, food, candy floss BBQ promises to be a great day.
The school has launched a Lotto as Fundraiser for the school and all community support will be appreciated.
You can now do a local Lotto and help our National School in the process .Visit www.ourfundraiser. ie/org/carraroens.
Santa is back with his largest Raffle ever for 2022.
The annual St John’s Club Raffle will be held this December and as usual, will have some of the best goodies in the northwest.
Our Christmas Club Raffle is increasingly vital for the sustainability of our finances.
With more teams, more players, and more training than ever; we need to cover the costs of facilities, equipment, Astroturf fees, referees fees, and everything else that makes this club great.
The annual St John’s Club Raffle will be held this December and as usual will have some of the best goodies in the north west.
Our Christmas Club Raffle is increasingly vital for the sustainability of our finances.
With more teams, more players and more training than ever; we need to cover costs of facilities, equipment, Astro turf fees, referees fees and everything else that makes this club great.
You can join the raffle from as little as €5 or why not buy 10 tickets this year (guaranteed to get you on Santa’s good list can we ask that you share this as widely as possible – friends, neighbors and family. Draw will take place December 20 via Facebook Live
Tickets can be purchased from member.clubforce.com.
KILGLASSENNISCRONE
The West Sligo Family Resource Centre is running a food appeal for St Vincent De Paul again this year, we are giving a list of what is most needed, Tea, Sugar, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, Weetabix, Cherrios, Shreddies, Apple/Orange juice. Tins of Salmon, Tuna, Corn, Spaghetti Hoops. Jars of Curry Pasta Sweet and Sour Sauce, Packs of Noodles and Soup. Deodorant, Shampoo and Conditioner, Toothpaste, Shower Gel, Washing Powder/Liquid. Please drop your items to us at the Family Resource Center before December 18, and please donate what you can.
Drop into the West Sligo Family Resource Centre any Friday between 2.30pm and 5pm and play some cards or board games or just have a cuppa and a chat.
Clear the Christmas cobwebs with a 5k or 3k fun run on Enniscrone Beach! €10 adult, €5 child/youth, or €20 per family. Hot chocolate and spot prizes at the finish. Register on the morning. Fundraiser for West Sligo AC.
Congratulations to Clodagh Gill and Darragh Mulrooney who have both been selected to represent Ireland (Under-17). They will travel to Perth in Scotland as part of a six strong ladies’ team and men’s team on January 14. Clodagh and Darragh won individual silver at the All Ireland cross country thus earning their selections. We wish them both the very best of luck.
Are having their Christmas concert on December 15 at 7.30pm in the school. Raffle prizes on the night, all welcome to attend and join in the festivities.
Carol Service in St. Anne’s Church Easkey on Sunday at 4pm. Everyone is welcome.
MARKET: Easkey Christmas Market returns this Sunday with over 40 amazing stalls from local craftsmen and craftswomen. There will be candy floss, bbq, tea and coffee and a bumper raffle with over 40 prizes; each donated by our stall holders, including a hamper valued at €150. Hope to see you all there.
Tireragh CCÉ Christmas Concert of music, song & dance will take place on Sunday at 3pm in Dromore West Community Centre. Tickets are €10, children attend for free. Tickets are available at door or in Costcutters in
Sligo /E$DE5 3artnership are delighted to announce the 2pening of the HSE Cliffoney Day Care Centre on Main Street Cliffoney from January 2023. The centre located will operate from Cliffoney Hall three days per week from 11.00am until 3.00pm. The Day Care Centre will be managed by Sligo LEADER Partnership offering a range of services for the elderly. The centre will provide a social outlet for clients, meeting friends and making new friends. If interested, clients take part in bingo, card games, chair exercises and much more.
Typically, clients are over the age of 55yrs, male and female, and are referred from their Public Health
Nurse. Food is provided each day the centre is open which consists of Soup, Dinner, Dessert, Tea/Coffee & Biscuits. Transport is made accessible by TFI Local Link and anyone along the route can provide an Eircode to be collected. To celebrate the opening of Cliffoney Day Care Centre, we are hosting a Christmas lunch for potential clients
Dromore West, Bernies in Easkey or contact (086) 876 5545. Refreshments and raffle on the night.
Enniscrone/Kilglass GAA invite you to participate in their Tractor/ Any Vehicle Christmas Themed Run on Sunday, December 18. All funds raised will go to the Sligo Branch of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Registration is at the Club from 4.30pm on the day. We look forward to getting together as a Community to raise much needed funds for this worthy cause. If you cannot attend, please consider making a donation via GoFundMe.
Tomorrow, Friday we will close at 4pm for staff our night out. We will also be closed on ChristmasEve, St Stephen’s Day and December 27. We re-open from Wednesday, December 28 with reduced hours of 10am to 3pm. We close again on New Year’s Day before returning to normal from 10am to 5pm from Wednesday, January 4.
Congratulations to our U13 girls who defeated Gurteen at home in windy conditions 6-0, goals from Ava Hallinan (3) Maisie Kilcullen (2) and Amy Boland (1) GRINDS: Irish Grinds, Junior
Cycle and Leaving Cert, Individual or Group, In person or Online, Comprehensive notes supplied for all aspects of, JC or LC, Written and Oral Examiner. Contact: gaeilge2023@gmail.com or
0879605467 to book your place for January 2023.
WATERPOINT: The board of directors of Waterpoint regret to announce that the pool will be closed during December and January. Due to the rising operational and energy and guests on Monday 19th December from 11.30pm in Cliffoney Hall where food will be provided by Sligo Meals on Wheels and also a spot prize or two. Please RSVP to Gilda on 071 91 44138 if you wish to come along. Commenting on the opening of the new centre Fintan Kennedy Chairman of Sligo LEADER Partnership said “We in Sligo LEADER are delighted to see the opening of the Day Centre in Cliffoney, serving the communities of North
Sligo. Building on the success of the day centres in Ballymote Tubbercurry and Gurteen and as the great work in the background from Sligo LEADER Staff, Sligo County Council, The HSE and TFI has enabled the opening of this vital service for another Sligo Community. The opportunity to have a warm welcoming space for people to meet, eat and share stories together cannot be underestimated. Thanks to all who have worked so hard to help us open this fine facility and I wish the communities of North Sligo health to enjoy it.
costs it is not feasible to operate the pool during the winter months. This time will allow us to carrry out some essential maintenance. The gym will reopen on January 4 and the pool will reopen on February 6. All active pool memberships will be frozen during closure and reactivated on reopening. We would like to thank you for your continued support and look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year.
INFORMATION: Councilor Joe Queenan will hold a meeting tonight, Thursday at 8pm in the Hilltop, Culleens. On the agenda will be local issues, New Framing and Forestry Grants with guest speaker from an Teagasc and finally concerns around Direct Provision in our community. It will be great to see you all there.
Castleconnor Community Council are having a coffee morning and cake sale on Sunday, December 18 from 11.30am until 2.30pm. Drop in for a cuppa and a few festive treats for all the family, complimentary raffle, live music & lots more. All proceeds raised go towards the up keep and running costs of Castleconnor Community Centre.
BALLINTOGHER
By Mary Mulvaney
Santa arrives in Ballintogher Village this Saturday at 5 30pm.The Christmas lights will also be turned on.Great excitment for all the children.
Congratulations and Best Wishes to Lorraine McGoldrick, Cartronhugh and Christopher Markham, Riverstown, who got married last Friday In St Thereses Church Ballintogher.
AGM: IFA AGM tonight, Thursday at 8pm in the Club House Meeting Room, Dromahair
SVP: St Vincent de Paul Baskets front of Alters in Parish for nonperishable food items and treats (no toys).
GURTEEN
By Peggy Gaffney
The death occurred on November 30 in her 100th year of Bridget Griffen, Lisnageeragh, Ballymoe, Co. Galway . She was grandmother of Emmet Cooney, Gurteen, sympathy to Emmet and to her family and her many friends, May she rest in Peace.
The death occurred on November 29 of Paddy Cregg, Kingsland. Sympathy to his wife Carmel, daughter Therese, sons Padraig, Adrian, Niall and Kevin and their families. May Paddy rest in Peace.
The death occurred recently in Manchester of Kathleen Regan - sister of Paddy Doyle, Rarhmadder. Sympathy to Paddy and to all the relations . May she rest in Peace.
Congratulations and best wished to Damien Coleman and Jessica Mealing who were married on Saturday last in St Patrick’s Church, Gurteen and to their daughters Brooke and Silver.
Gurteen Community Care Christmas party will take place in the Dapper Duck on Sunday. To book your place please contact the following by December 6- Madeline 086-3315713 : Pakie 086-2380375 or Paddy 0877870013 or give your name in at the Gurteen Day Centre. Booking is essential to give an accurate number to be catered for.
Santa comes to Cloonloo Hall on Sunday at 3pm. Booking is essential.
The very popular group ‘Cherish The Ladies’ return from America to play at the Coleman Centre, Gurteen on January 21, 2023. As the tickets are always booked up fast it is advisable to book now to save disappointment- an ideal gift for Christmas for Irish music followers. Further information from 0719182599 or visit the website: www. colemanirishmusic.com
BINGO: Bingo every Friday night at 8 pm. Jackpot is now € 4,100 in 49 numbers -Lotto jackpot is now €200 - also super 50/50/split. In appreciation for patrons support over recent years their will be extra prizes each week of December.
The winner of the 50/50 draw in aid of Eastern Harps was Padraig O’Dowd c/o Drurys Monasteraden who won €572 and the next draw is next Monday night at 9pm.
A Christmas rambling house concert will be held in Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen on December 10 with a great line up -singers, musicians -Patsy Hanley, Philip Duffy, Pat Sweeney, John Dwyer, Seamus O’Donnell, Brian Mostyn Jason McGuinness and Bean an Ti singer Caitriona Ni Cheannabhain- and special guests also- contact 071-918
POSITION ON RSS:There is a position on Gurteen RSS scheme to work outdoors. person must be in receipt of a welfare payment and have access to a herd number. Information from Sean McDonagh, supervisor 087-1646683.
RIVERSTOWN
By Iris Murphy
Gleann ICA Christmas Flower Arranging Demonstration will take place on Tuesday, December 13 at 8pm in Gleann Community Centre. Admission €5. Refreshments served.
There are a huge number of people who walk their dogs in Riverstown and the surrounding area. This is lovely to see and owners will usually always clean up after their pets. Unfortunately it has come to the attention of community members that dogs have fouled the footpath in a few locations throughout the village. Pet owners are asked to ensure they know where their pet is and help keep Riverstown clean for everyone.
LAST LIVE CONCERT OF 2022: Come along to Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen and enjoy our wonderful Christmas Rambling House Concert on Saturday, December 10 at 8.30pm. The night will include Music, song and good banter with a great group of musicians including Patsy Hanly, Philip Duffy, Pat Sweeney, Seamus O’Donnell, John Dwyer, Brian Mostyn, Jason McGuinness with Bean an Tí Caitriona Ni Cheannabháin. Tickets €15. For more information telephone 071 9182599 or www.colemanirishmusic. com
All are welcome have their news items included in the Riverstown community notes so please email carrowcashel@eircom.net or alternatively text or call Iris on 086 8258525.
TUBBERCURRY
DEATHS: The deaths have occurred of the following.
Maura Rooney, New York and formerly The Square Tubbercurry. Sympathy to her family, relatives and friends.
Patrick Joseph Hunt (Pakie Joe), Ougham, Bunninadden. Sympathy to his brother Henry, sister
Kathleen Taffe and to his extended family, relatives and friends.
Johnny Haughey, Athleague, Roscommon and late of Ballina Road, Tubbercurry. Sympathy to his brother Charlie and family and to his extended family, relatives and friends.
Maureen Walsh (nee Howley), Tubberoddy, Aclare. Sympathy to her son Pat, daughters Geraldine and Amanda and to her extended family, relatives and friends.
Mary Leonard, Rhue. Sympathy to her children Brendan, David,Christina and Martina, sisters Anne and Madeline, brother Joe and to her extended family, relatives and friends.
May they rest in peace.
The Phoenix Players are hoping to present “Old Mother Hubbard” a Wild West pantomime at the end of March
2023. They require cowboys,
Indians, townsfolk young and old, male and female, to sing dance and brawl. Anyone interested in participating in any way, on stage, helping backstage, or with costumes, please come along to a meeting in
St. Brigid’s Hall on Monday 12th December at 8pm. If you cannot attend and are interested in being involved, please contact any of the following committee members: Frank Brennan - 083 4386368,
Mary Mannion – 087 9937116, Mark Dunne – 086 6013942, Tom Walsh –
087 2276628. Please note, that while some children and teenagers will be required for the production it is hoped to have a separate audition night for them at a later date.
At the Community Hub on Saturday at 9.30pm.
This is an open invitation to any people locally who might like to attend the Cloonacool Community Centre Christmas Party. The party is being revived after a few years break and takes place on Sunday December 11th next. The party will start with a Mass at 3pm and continues with dinner, music and dancing. Call Attracta McIntyre to book your place - 086 305 8844.
Are volunteers who are trained to attend certain emergencies in the area where they live or work. Their aim is to reach a potential lifethreatening emergency in the first vital minutes before the ambulance arrives. If you want to learn more about the Community First Responder Schemes in your area, and join thousands of Responders already in operation, visit www. becomeacfr.ie or make contact with your local team in Tubbercurry at a public meeting in Teach Laighne on Monday 28th November at 7.30pm. For further details, contact Bernie on 087 9106111. Follow Tubbercurry CFR on Facebook and Instagram.
A Festive Community Christmas Fair will take place in St. Brigid’s Hall, Tubbercurry on Sunday, 11th December, from 2-5pm. Hosted by St. Brigid’s Hall Committee, this is a Fundraiser for North West Hospice and St. Brigid’s Hall. There will be a host of craft stalls with a wide range of beautifully designed handmade gift items including tree decorations, table centrepieces, Christmas cards, jewellery, bags, hand knitted and crocheted toys and much more. A great variety of baked goodies and festive food will also be available to buy with something to suit every taste and budget. Get involved on the day by participating in a sustainable Christmas decoration making workshop and bring the kiddies to meet Santa in his grotto. Something for everyone so mark your calendars and come along to meet your neighbours and friends on Sunday afternoonwhere you will enjoy a fun-filled festive afternoon in St Brigid’s Hall.
Each Wednesday there is an opportunity in the parish to spend some time in Eucharistic Adoration. It takes place in the Parish Church, beginning at 11am and concluding at 7pm. All are welcome.
There will be a carol service in the Sacred
Heart Church, Lough Talt on
Friday, December 23 8pm, light refreshments. Admission free, donations welcome.
New jackpot game now €2,000 on 42 calls or less at Banada Abbey Bingo this Tuesday at 8pm both in the hall and online. Prize fund of €10,000 on offer. Extra payout for full house winners on Jackpot and Flier Game. Game 5 jackpot€1,000 on 40 calls or less. Game 10 Jackpot €2,000 now on 42 calls or less.
We look forward to celebrating First Holy Communion with the children of St. Michael’s and Holy Family in 2023. This week dates were arranged
The newly-elected Ballinode Community College Student Council Commitee. for these celebrations. First Holy Communion will be celebrated in Cloonacool on Saturday May 20th and in Tubbercurry on Saturday May 27th. Time to be decided but quite likely 11am both days.
Donations envelopes are available at church exits. Kindly place your donation envelope in the church offertory box for collection. Your generosity, as always, will be greatly appreciated. A special word of thanks to all who donated during the year.
Drop-in service available in Tubbercurry FRC every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month from 10am to 1pm. For more information, contact Shauna 086 1238338.
Substance Misuse Service supports for individuals, families and the community around substance misuse. Service is available in Tubbercurry FRC on Wednesdays by appointment only. For appointment contact Ciara on 085 8030131. CONNECT CAFÉ: Tubbercurry FRC will host the last Connect Café of the year tody, Thursday from 11am to 1pm. There is no charge for the Café but small donations are accepted and go back into the Café. If you want to get out of the house for an hour, are new to the area, are caring for someone and need time to yourself or perhaps to bring that person out for a cuppa, this Café is for you. Friendly faces await with a cuppa and a listening ear! We look forward to welcoming new and familiar faces.
CLOONACOOL
By Pat McCarrick
The recent North West Hospice fundraiser organised by the Mill Cafe raised a staggering €2,226. Well done and thanks to all concerned.
An open invitation is being issued by Cloonacool Community Centre to any people locally who might like to attend their seasonal Christmas Party. The party is being revived after a few years break and takes place on Sunday. The party will start with a mass at 3pm and continues with dinner, music and dancing.
Call Attracta McIntyre to book your place - 086 305 8844.
MILL CAFÉ NEWS: The Mill Café is undertaking a revamp of their shop. The shop will now carry of new line in Christmas gifts as well as a specially commissioned set of local
Cloonacool Christmas cards. The Café will be closed this weekend, Dec 10th and will close for the Christmas period on Dec 18th. It will reopen on Jan 6th 2023.
Aiveen
Curley is a grand-niece of Eileen Kirrane. Currently, Aiveen is being treated for scoliosis in a clinic in Philadelphia. The Mill Café will hold a raffle for Aiveen’s fund starting
Dec 3rd and finishing on Dec 18th. Great prizes are on offer. Lines €2 each or 3 lines for €5.
The ‘25’ card game is back; taking place in the Community Centre every Monday night at 8.30pm. New players are always welcome; to learn and participate in the old tradition.
An oldfashioned Social will take place in the Community Centre during the days of Christmas. The Duets are scheduled to play on Friday
30th December. The night will provide a chance for people to socialise locally and enjoy some social dancing. The evening is being organised jointly by the Sheep Festival Committee and Cloonacool Community Centre.
A Christmas Community Fair will take place in St. Brigid’s Hall on Sun Dec
11th from 2 to 5pm. Lots of Christmas goods are on sale and there will also be a raffle in support of North West Hospice.
Special days are coming up during each Saturday in December at Achonry Farmer’s Market, including a
Santa’s Grotto, extra seasonal gift ideas and a monster raffle. The Market is now a covered area and promises a great visitor’s experience for these December Saturday’s.
The Knocknashee Community Hub at Lavagh, will host an evening of music – from folk to rock – on Saturday. Tickets are available for any committee member. Booking is vital - tickets €20.
All notes are welcome and should be sent to cloonacoolnotes@gmail. com by Monday 12 noon.
CURRY
By Cyril Feehily
SYMPATHY: On the death of John Brennan,Chaffpool Post Office, to his sister Agnes Morley, Drimroe and his Morley nephews David, Paul,Kenneth and Shane. May he rest in peace.
Parish Christmas Social Night will take place in Yeats County Inn, Curry on this Saturday at 9pm for all participants and their partners who participated in activities throughout the year with Curry GAA Club, whether it was over 60s exercise class, Ireland Lights Up, Running, Swimming etc you are more than welcome to attend. There will be light refreshments served on the night. Come along and join in the banter and craic.
25 Cards up and running in Moylough Heritage Centre, on Wednesday nights at 8.30pm. There is always sure to be a winner.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will resume in Curry Church for the four Thursdays of Advent from 10am to 12 noon. All are welcome to visit and pray.
Visitation of the s and housebound PP Fr Leo intends to visit the sick and the housebound during the course of the coming two weeks.
The Phoenix Players plan to present a pantomime ‘Old Mother Hubbard’ at the end of
March 2023. Anyone interested in being involved, either on stage or helping out backstage please come along to a meeting in St. Brigid’s Hall,Tubbercurry at 8pm on Monday or contact Tom Walsh - 087-2276628.
St Mary’s Community Centre, Curry have managed to get their hands on, the impossible in getting a PS5 for their annual Christmas fundraiser! Donate €10 and you get one entry into the draw - €20 gives two entries and so on.
Gardaí are urging the public to be vigilant after a number of recent incidents of individuals pretending to be members of An Garda Síochána, calling to people in their homes Before you answer the door, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Make sure your back door and any other doors leading outside are locked before you go to the front door. If you feel uncomfortable don’t answer the door and lock it. Talk through a window if you can.Report suspicious persons and vehicle details to Gardaí immediately by ringing 999 or 112.
The Jackpot this week was €3,800 and the numbers drawn were 19, 22, 25 and 26 as there was no jackpot winner the lucky dip winners were,Catherine Howley, Aimee Cunnie and Margaret Walsh Next weeks jackpot is €3,900 your support for the lotto means so much to the club and the parish and is much appreciated the funds raised are invested in Club’s facilities.
A Domestic Violence Support Drop in
Service will be available in the FRC,Tubbercurry, on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. This is a confidential space for women to chat to a support worker from the Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (DVAS) about issues or concerns that are affecting them and their family.
Banada Development Agency Meals on Wheels Service, offer applicants over sixty-five or those returning home from hospital, a homemade hot dinner plus desert delivered to your door Monday to Friday in the South Sligo area. Call 071-9181562 for more information between 9am and 1pm from Monday to Friday.
The men’s shed have been very busy since returning this year. The group are participating in art classes, gardening, and recently tried spinning wool on a spinning wheel.
They have many plans for the coming year. Anyone interested in coming along to see what it is all about are welcome. The shed is open Wednesday evenings from 7pm.in Banada one side of the
Abbey Community Hall .First two nights are free and €10 per month after. new members are welcome.
For further information or contact details contact the FRC on 0719186926.
Play Therapy Service is available for children and young people aged between 3-14 years through the FRC. Play Therapy is an effective form of therapy for children and young people with a range of emotional and behavioral difficulties, those who have experienced a loss, trauma, have attachment difficulties or where there are learning development problems. The therapy allows them to express, explore and make sense of their difficult and/ or painful experiences. Contact the FRC for more details on the service on 0719186926.
Bingo continues at Banada Abbey every Tuesday night at 8.30pm. Prize fund on offer of €5,500 Game 5 Jackpot €500 on 40 calls or less. Game 10 Jackpot €2,000 on 47 calls or less.Play on-line option. Online books to be purchased before 12 noon on Tuesday for that evenings game from banadaabbeyhall.com. Guaranteed payout of €3,000 each night. Lots of additional surprise prizes on the night.
Please remember, your local text alert system is available to all of us to send a message which we feel may be of importance to members of our local Parish Community.
At this time of concern it is important that we keep a lookout for each other and in particular for our Senior Citizens. Should you notice any suspicious activity it is important to contact the Gardai or any of the people listed below to have a text issued.
Curry/Moylough Text alert is offering, Community Support,assistance, information, provisions,as maybe required at any given time you can contact Martin Connolly, 087-2054930, Marie Costigan, 087-7883868, Seamus Durcan, 086-3617445, James Giblin 087-9061833, Tom Howley, 0872200058, and Paul Walsh, 087-8171548