Local Notes: Darkness into Light fundraiser launched at Ballyglass Community Centre
Tomás Concannon, Breege Jennings and Elisa Toner launching the Darkness into Light fundraiser at the recent market in Ballyglass Centre.
Ballyglass will hold an official Darkness into Light 5km walk this year in aid of Pieta House at 4.15am on the morning of Saturday, May 11. Volunteers will be needed to ensure everything goes smoothly and safely on the day so anyone who would like to be a steward, or help out in any other way, let anyone on the community council know closer to the time. To sign up go online. This event is open to everybody, and registration is open online now.
It is with deep sadness we record the passing of Rev Fr Valentine (Val) Hynes, Society of African Missions, Blackrock Road, Cork and late of Skehanagh Upper, Ballintubber, Co. Mayo. Fr Val passed away peacefully at St Theresa’s Nursing Unit, African Missions, Blackrock Road, Cork on March 15.
Educated in Ballintubber National School, Fr Val attended Ballinafad College, the S.M.A College, Kilcolgan, Co Galway and Drumintine S.M.A College, Newry, Co Down. He was ordained to the priesthood on December 16, 1970. Fr Val devoted his life to helping the poor and needy on the Foreign Missions in remote rural regions of Nigeria. He built churches, schools, and health centres for those highly deprived populations of the third world. For over forty years he served in the Diocese of Ondo, also Lagos and later still the SMA Zimmermann House in Claregalway. His 53 years missionary work was legendary and carried out with a deep humility that marked him out as a very special clergyman.
A member of a highly respected local family he is fondly remembered in his home community as a strong and sturdy footballer with Ballintubber Club in the 1960s. A no-nonsense rugged, tough player he excelled at gaining possession. A frequent visitor to the locality in recent years he also had personal warmth that endeared him to many. He was appointed President of Ballintubber GAA Club in former years, recognition perhaps of his love of Ballintubber and his immense unselfish lifelong devotion in serving humanity.
Predeceased by his parents John and Mary Ellen (née Barnicle), sisters Rose O’Gorman and Frances O’Reilly and his brothers Patsy, David and Jimmy, he is deeply regretted by his sister Bridie O’Toole and brother Noel, nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, relatives, friends and neighbours, the people of the Dioceses of Ondo and Lagos, Nigeria, and his confreres in the Society of African Missions. His remains reposed at Ballintubber Resource Centre on Monday evening, March 18, from 5pm to 7pm, followed by removal to Ballintubber Abbey. Ballintubber GAA Club members and community provided a Guard of Honour in recognition of the high esteem in which Fr Val was held in the community.
His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, March 19, at 2pm. The chief celebrant was Fr Malachy Flanagan, SMA Provincial Leader, assisted by Fr Michael Farragher, P.P and Fr Frank Fahey. The former Archbishop of Tuam Archdiocese, Dr Michael Neary, presided and upwards of thirty priests from the SMA participated and was in attendance. A most moving Mass embellished by music, hymns and a fitting homily was followed by the burial of Fr Val’s remains in the adjoining cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm dilis.
There was no winner of the jackpot in the latest Ballintubber GAA Lotto draw on Sunday, March 17. 2, 19, 25 and 27 were the numbers drawn. The winners of the consolation prizes of the €20 special €52k draw tickets on the night were Mary and John Cunningham, Emma Hopkins, Ann Duffy, Yvonne Burke, Marian Heneghan and Tom Keane.
On last Sunday, March 24, the jackpot stood at €4,200. All lucky dip winners get a ticket for the 'Win 52k' draw.
The draw is offering a lucky winner the chance to earn €1,000 a week for a year in their recent ‘Win €52K’ fundraiser. The attractive fundraiser will see one lucky winner claim a cash prize of €52,000 paid out at €1,000 per week into their account. Tickets are reasonably priced at €20 each or three for €50 and can be purchased through the club fundraiser website www.win€52k.ie or from any of the club’s executive. The winner will be drawn in the club’s Clogher clubhouse on Sunday, June 2nd and will be broadcast live on the club.
Congrats to the Ballintubber Bulls U14 team and their coaches Colm Staunton and Maria Diffley on their recent victory over Kiltimagh Giants to win the prestigious Mayo title. The All Ireland Championships now beckon in Gormanstown next month and the Ballintubber teams who have qualified are wished ongoing success.
The passion play on the grounds of Ballintubber Abbey continues this Tuesday, March 26 and Wednesday, March 27. The powerful re-enactment of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus is a powerful performance put on by local actors and actresses. Each year this event attracts large crowds so those attending are requested to be in place on time and be suitably attired for the weather. Admission is free but all donations will be greatly appreciated.
The numbers drawn on March 18, were 7, 21, 22 and 26. There was no winner of the €6,300 jackpot. There were no match 3 winners. Consolation prizes went to Pete Allgood, Paul Connolly (Watford), Kevin Brett, Padraig Hughes and Ann Moran. Play now to be in with a chance to win the growing jackpot of €6,400 by going to smartlotto.ie.
The Market in Ballyglass takes place on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 11am to 2pm. The next market will be on Sunday, April 14. See you all there!
Bereaved Sincere sympathy is extended to Jimmy and Anthony Killeen, Stuckeen on the recent death of their uncle Michal Gallagher, R.I.P, Boston, USA.
The results from Monday night, March 19: 1st Kitty Rumley and Judy Clarke, 2nd Martin Forde and Seamus Nevin and 3rd Philip White and Chris Flatley. The last nine winners were Tom Flatley and Patsy Flatley and the raffle winners were Patricia Jennings and Margaret Mannion.
Mayo Yoga with Aromatherapy has begun a new block of classes in Ballyglass Community Centre on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm. This class is designed for everybody. Contact 087 2831400 for further information and to book your place.
The next Tochar Phádraig Walk will take place on Easter Monday, April 1. This is a guided 15km walk of the Tochar Phádraig Pilgrim Path between Ballintubber Abbey and Aughagower. To register for this walk contact Ballintubber Abbey at 094 9030934 or email info@ballintubberabbey.ie. Suitable clothing and footwear is advised.
A Community Spring Clean in Ballintubber and surrounding areas will shortly take place on Saturday, April 13, at 11am. Those taking part are asked to meet at the Graveyard Carpark. Make the community environment cleaner, greener and more beautiful.
2024 Carnacon LGFA club registration is now open for all ages on Foireann. U10 players up to seniors are requested and required to register. Club coaches are looking forward to seeing all players back with the club for the coming season.
Ballintubber National School Board of Management are currently seeking applications in the form of Expression of Interest from suitable candidates interested in leasing and operating their Preschool and School Age Childcare Service, located on the grounds of the school premises in Ballintubber. For more details contact Ballintubber NS 094 9030969 or email ballintubber07374G@gmail.com.
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The Age Friendly Homes Programme /lecture will take place this Thursday, March 28, at 2pm in the Halla. Tom Carolan is the new recently appointed coordinator for local Mayo Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme. Tom will be in Halla Tuar Mhic Éadaigh to talk to the social club members. Any member of the community aged 66 is welcome to come along on the day to find out more about the programme and find out if it can assist them in anyway.
The death has occurred of Nora Summerville, R.I.P, née Maree, Killateeaun, Tourmakeady, Co Mayo and formerly Luton, England, on March 18. Predeceased by her husband Paul, brothers and sister, she is deeply regretted by her loving family Tracey, Marie and Michelle, grandchildren Tara, Ruby and Dylan, great-granddaughter Bláithín, sons-in-law, brothers Jimmy and , Tommy, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, good friends and neighbours to whom sincere sympathy is extended. Her remains reposed in Burke’s Funeral Home, Clonbur, on last Wednesday evening from 5.30 until 7pm. The removal of her remains from her residence took place on Thursday at 12.30pm for service in Shannon Crematorium at 3pm. May she rest eternally in the peace and happiness of heaven.
The annual St Patrick's Day Parade took place on March 17, after 11.30am Mass in St Mary's church, Tuar Mhic Eadaigh. Coiste an Halla have expressed their deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and energy again this year; to all the volunteers who helped along the route, to all the school children and their teachers, to all the locals and clubs who put floats in the parade and special thanks to St Patrick himself who is always available every year; to all the people who provided food and lovely home baking and helped with serving tea and refreshment in the Halla after the parade; to the community Employment Scheme participants for all their help in decorating and setting up the Halla for the event and for the presence and help on the day. Thank you to all who helped for your efforts and for making the parade a success in 2024. How wonderful it is to see a small rural community mark this special feast day that celebrates our native culture and history.
Tuar Mhic Éadaigh “Out of the woods 8k” will take place on Sunday, April 14. The organising committee look forward to welcoming all athletes and participants to what will be a great a day out for everyone. There will be plenty of prizes and refreshments on the day. Register online here: https://eventmaster.ie/event/rkJ4tPmS9y U16s go free but must register.
The latest Thuar Mhic Éadaigh GAA lotto draw took place on March 23, for a jackpot of €11,200. 5, 8, 9 and 12 were the numbers drawn in the previous draw. Nora Meeneghan and Brian O' Neachtain were the online prizewinners.
Congrats to Tuar Mhic Éadaigh U14 girls who recently recorded a 4-6 to 1-1 victory over St Brigid's.
Tesco Ballinrobe is running a blue token collection. The more tokens that are collected locally, the more funding the Tourmakeady/Partry Swimming Club will receive. Please add tokens after your shopping. The scheme runs for the next two months.
Tourmakeady and Partry Community Games Athletics Day has been organised for the May Bank Holiday Monday. There will be a 2pm start at Tourmakeady GAA pitch. All young enthusiastic athletes in the area should commence training shortly.
Congrats to the recent winners of Tour Mhic Eadaigh NS lotto, PJ and Jennifer Sheridan and Chris and Ciaran Breathnach. Congratulations and many thanks for your continued support.
The death has taken place of Nora O'Neill (née Brady), Barnacogue, Swinford and formerly of Killawalla, Westport. Nora passed away peacefully, at her home in her 94th year. Predeceased by her husband John and son David she is deeply regretted by her loving family daughters Maureen, Caroline and Sharon, sons Sean and Barry, daughters-in-law Ann and Miriam, sons-in-law Michael and Eamon, her sister Kathleen, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends to whom sincere condolences are tendered. Her remains reposed at the Horkan Funeral home Charlestown on Monday evening from 5 to 7pm. The removal of her remains took place from her home on Tuesday to St James's church, Charlestown, for Funeral Mass at 12 noon followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest in peace.
Killawalla Community Council invite as many people as possible to come and join them for the annual litter pick around the Killawalla area over the Easter Weekend, Saturday, March 29 –Monday, April 1 on your own time. The filled rubbish bags will be picked up on Easter Monday, April 1, on the community centre grounds. Bags, pickers and gloves are available at the community centre or telephone Carmel on 087 2879701, Siobhan on 087 6713940 or Peter at 087 9961422.
Congratulations to the second class pupils from Killawalla NS who received the Sacrament of Penance on Thursday, March 14. The children will receive their first Holy Communion on Saturday, May 11, at 2pm in St Patrick’s Church, Killawalla. The confirmation pupils of Killawalla National School will receive the sacrament of Confirmation in Ballintubber Abbey on Monday, April 15, at 2pm. The confirmandi will have completed their retreat experience on Monday, April 8, in Ballintubber Retreat Centre.
On Easter Sunday, March 31, Killawalla Community Council have organised an Easter Egg Hunt for all children from 11.30-1pm on the community centre grounds. All children are welcome to come along and enjoy the fun. The cost is €5 per child or €10 per family. There will also be a cup of tea and treats for the adults.
The death has occurred of Mary T Kelly (née Lahiff), Stripe, Furbo, Co Galway. The deceased was formerly of Partry, Co. Mayo, London and Kylemore, Ennistymon, Co. Clare. On St Patrick’s Day, March 17, Mary T slipped away peacefully at University Hospital Galway. Predeceased by her husband Colman (Coil Tom Mhicíl), sisters Kathleen and Patricia, nephew Fergus and grandniece Katie, she is deeply regretted by her children Carmel, Brendan and Angela, their families Frank, Margaret, Padraic and her adored grandchildren Jack and Sam, her sisters Margaret, Bridie, and Susan and by her brother Michael, lovely neighbours, and many friends to whom sincere sympathy is tendered. Her remains reposed at the O’Flaherty Funeral Parlour, Munster Avenue, Galway, on Thursday, March 21, from 5pm with removal at 6.30pm to ‘Realt na Mara’ Church, Furbo.
Requiem Mass was celebrated for Mary T on Friday, March 22, at 12 noon and following Mass she was laid to rest in Rahoon cemetery. Ar dheis De go raibh a nAinm.
Congrats to Thomas and Áine McHale who were recent winners of the Partry FC weekly Wednesday bonus number draws.
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Belcarra 8k Fun Run will take place on Sunday, April 7. Kids run starts at 11 followed by the main run at 12 noon. The community are invited to take part and to come along and cheer on the participants. Registration on the day is at 9.30 at the community centre. All proceeds are in aid of the Belcarra Recreational Park. Any donation of food for the post-run refreshments in the community centre would be greatly appreciated. Goods can be dropped off on the morning of the event from 9am or contact Ger on 087 9968365.
Belcarra Community Council’s latest lotto draw featured an attractive jackpot of €5,700 on March 18. The numbers drawn were 3, 4, 6 and 15 and there was no winner. The lucky dip winners of €30 were Daniel McNamara, Galway, Seamus Cuffe, Belcarra, Sabrina Galvin, Balla and Sean Óg and Gene Reilly, Belcarra. The latest draw on March 25, was for a jackpot of €5,800..
Breaffy GAA lotto stands at €19,400 for tonight’s draw on March 26. The numbers drawn last week on March 12 were 2, 4, 18 - Bonus: 9 and there was no jackpot winner. Also there was no Match 3 winners and congrats to the lucky dip winners.
Breaffy Boys U6 Boys Academy will commence activity on Saturday, April 6, at Ballyheane Pitch running from 9.15am - 10.15am.
Perhaps a great way to break up the long Easter break would be attendance at a fun camp at Ballyheane Buttercups Community Childcare Service Easter Camp. The Ballyheane Buttercups camps will be running from March 25-29 costing €75 and from April 2-5, €50. School age children will participate in Easter themed crafts, baking, face painting and a disco. The event will run from 9am to 1pm each weekday and children should bring a snack. Email info@ballyheanebuttercups.ie for further details.
Jiving lessons will commence in Ballyheane Community Centre on April 4, in the lead up to the very popular Ballyheane Goes Country Music festival which takes place in early June. The lessons take place from 8-9pm and booking and payment will be in advance. Social dancing takes place from 9-10pm. Booking and further information is available from Brian Gibbons at 087 7077074.
Ballyheane Walk and Talk group meet every Thursday evening at 7pm at the community centre. Come along and join in the fun if you can crawl, walk or run.
Results of card game held on March 15 were 1st Gay Conway and Mary Kelly and Derek Quinn and Tommy Fahy, 2nd Martin Moran and Aaron McDonagh, 3rd Majella Corbett and Margaret Mannion, and Tom Fitzpatrick and Eileen Moran. The last 10 winners were Jimmy Connor and Tommy Lyons. The Game continues every Friday night at 9pm.
Clogher Half Marathon event returns on May 26. As one of the fastest half marathon courses in Connacht many athletes are expected to participate and you can join on the day. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
Join in Ireland's biggest litter clean up event and give Mayo a spring clean. Register on www.nationalspringclean.org. If you need extra clean up supplies contact MCC Environment Office on 094 9064000. Contact your local council office before you’re clean-up for the collection of litter.
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Balla GAA Club lotto jackpot prize stood at €5,500 for the draw on Thursday, March 21, in Flukies of Belcarra. The numbers drawn were 4, 6, 23 and 35. The €30 winners were Ger Butler (online), Derek Dempsey (online) and Liam Flanagan (online). Congratulations to Balla Secondary School ladies on winning the Lidl PPS Junior Connacht final in Swinford. Special congrats to all the Balla LGFA ladies and captain Emily Vahey.
Congrats to Niall Broderick who was recently awarded the title of “Clubman of the Year” at the recent club presentation ceremony. Niall has done trojan work for Balla GAA over the last 4 years since taking on the role of club treasurer in 2020. Niall stepped down in November of 2023 and the club has commemorated all the hard work he has done, assisting the club in every activity, notably fostering the largest fundraiser the club has ever seen, with the Balla GAA Lip Sync battle.
Manulla FC jackpot stood at €13,600 for last Sunday nights draw on March 24. Online registration is now open for both new and returning members.
The club recently enjoyed a special morning at the Balla St Patrick's Day parade with the lovely Mayo Autism Camp family, always standing shoulder to shoulder and supporting each other. Thank you to all of the children, volunteers and families that joined to take part.
Best wishes for success to Manulla FC ladies team who meet Corrib Celtic in the final on April 7.
Balla Community Centre Easter Market will take place on Saturday, March 30, from 11am to 3pm with market stalls, arts and crafts with lots of super food. 10am Seannós dancing for children in the centre. Phone 087 1850860 for further information.
A Willow Workshop will take place on Sunday, April 7, at Balla Community Centre running from 10am to 4pm. There are limited places - phone 085 1850860 too book a spot.
Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail Spring festival takes place on April 27. The itinerary is as follows 8.15 assemble at Murrisk Carpark for bus transport back to Aughagower. The walk will commence at 9.30 with lunch at Brackloon National School and finish at Murrisk. All proceeds from the walk go to croi.ie. Registration is €25 @croi.ie/croaghpatrick.
A Seán Keane Concert will be held on Friday, May 31, in Balla Community Centre. Tickets are on sale at the centre and in local shops. All proceeds are in aid of The Sensory Garden and strong support is urged for the worthy cause.
Balla Centre hosts a 25 card drive every Saturday night in Balla Community Centre. Call the Centre at 094 9365843 for more information. Manulla 25 card game takes place at 9pm in the local centre on Sunday nights.
