Natty Wailer Rasta vibes in the Culture Quarters
Will be playing at the CQ on the 2nd June @ 9pm…7 euro entry and all proceeds go to the Cultural Quarters.(Not to be missed) Work party still needed on Tuesday’s (light lunch provided) and donations still needed..Tuesday we are still running our Tiji Chi class 12-1 pm 5 euro’s (pay and go), Wednesday is meditation 8-9 pm, Thursday is knitting club from 2 pm…Lastly we are about to launch our new summer programmes for kids from 5 up…watch this space…and thanks again to all who have and still are supporting the CQ project…for further information regarding any of the above please phone 0864082630.

Sweet uplifting event in St. Mary’s Church of Ireland, Mohill.
Take your mind off all the doom and gloom and come along and join with the Leitrim based Sweet Spirit Gospel Choir, The Hunt School Choir, The Kilmore Cathedral Choir & Soloist Lorraine Vance for an evening of uplifting music and song on Friday 25th May in St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Mohill at 8.30pm sharp! The Sweet Spirit Gospel Choir & Hunt School Choir is under the direction of Tish Dunleavy. The Kilmore Cathedral Choir is under the direction of Dean Raymond Ferguson. Please support!

Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.

Leitrim Development Co. (LDC) has commenced a project to conduct comprehensive Analysis and Research on the tourism sector in the County. This work was agreed through the County Tourism Forum and a steering group drew up, agreed and invited tenders. The LDC Board approved the funding and the project will be funded from the RDP (LEADER) 2007-2013. “Europe investing in Rural Areas”
The purpose of this work is to establish a baseline on all aspects of the tourism sector (both positive and negative) and to formulate a series of integrated recommendations and actions which will ensure planned, sustainable development for tourism in Leitrim in the medium to long term. This should benefit all locally based tourism related businesses and also the tourists and visitors who come to Leitrim in the future. The process aims to involve as many of those contributing to tourism in Leitrim as possible whether individuals, communities, businesses, organisations, representatives, providers, networks, projects etc.
EmcG Solutions from Belfast in conjunction with TCC International, and Kevin Mc Govern and Willie Millar will carry out the work. Some details are attached. The project and the work involved are also described in some further detail (attached).
In order to ensure that the work is comprehensive, relevant and that it carries the views of those involved in Tourism provision in Leitrim I would be grateful if you could (as appropriate)

1. Assist the contractors in accessing all policy, statistics, documents and plans, review documents etc relevant to tourism in Leitrim
2. Assist Leitrim Development Co. and the contractors to contact and meet as many people as possible involved and working in the sector in Leitrim so as to build a comprehensive picture of what is happening currently (and in the recent past) and to get proposals / suggestions for the future.
3. Contribute to the project through the consultation and survey processes and by contacting the contractors with your views, with any relevant information etc. Include your ideas, proposals and views.
4. Inform as many people (involved or interested in tourism) as you can that the project is under way and encourage them to contribute.
5. Let us know here at Leitrim Development Company about your activities and about businesses, services, events and other items etc. (attractions, features, activities etc) which are bringing and supporting tourism in the County (past and present).
Dr Eileen Mc Gloin from EmcG Solutions is the main point of contact for the project and her contact details are as follows.
Dr Eileen McGloin
EMcG Solutions
4 Montgomery Road
Belfast
BT6 9JD Mobile: from ROI 00 44 78 94736567
Email Eileen.McGloin@emcgsolutions.com
Website www.emcgsolutions.com
Leitrim Development Company can provide funding and other supports to tourism businesses under the tourism measure of the RDP (LEADER) programme and we are and will continue to support and fund businesses, events, festivals and other tourism projects, initiatives and training. (including those which will be identified in this process). If you would like details of this support feel free to contact me.
Thanking you for your assistance and hoping that you can assist in improving and developing tourism in Leitrim for the future through this process.

Ballinamore Active Age Group
the next meeting is on Thursday 24th at 3pm in Trathnona. We are going to Lough Derg on 28th May. Will all members try to attend as we need to finalize arrangements. Anybody interested in joining us please ring Clare 071 9644945 or Maureen 071 9644116

A 5k May walk, run or roll in aid of Cancer Research will take place on Sunday May 20th 2012 starting from Aughnasheelin Community Centre at 1p.m. Entry Fee €10. Sponsorship cards on request – contact Cáit @ 0872123703. If you can’t walk you can still donate on http://www.mycharity.ie/event/the_may_walkrun_or_roll/.or by contacting the above number. If you’re donating but not walking why not join us anyway for refreshments in the Community Centre following the event. Come out and join us, you will not only support Cancer Research but you will also bring your friends and families together for a great fun afternoon!!

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine,

ATHLETIC CLUB – one week from today on Sunday May 27th at 2.00 p.m. we host the big Women’s’ 5K Roadrace in conjunction with Leitrim Sports Partnership and Leitrim County Board AAI. The event is supported by the Irish Sports Council and is an Open event held under AAI Licence. Today the Leitrim AAI Championships are being held in Manorhamilton at 2.00 p.m. with events for Under 10 upwards. Training continues Tuesday and Thursday at 7 00 p.m. Morning Workout Classes

Counselling Service
Bereavement and other counselling services available. Please phone (049)4372999.

International Eucharistic Congress – Important Updates – 55,000 tickets have been sold for the Statio Orbis through the dioceses and to the international pilgrims. The remaining 20,000 tickets will shortly be sold through Centra Shops nationwide. These can be bought in pairs. A list of participating stores will be issued soon. A special ticket which allows access to the opening ceremony and the closing ceremony is also available at a cost of €40. This special events ticket is available to buy on the website or by calling 01-2981122 . Tickets will be provided for people who attended the Eucharistic Congress in 1932 and their carer. A shuttle-bus will be available to transfer these special guests from Clonliffe College car park to Croke Park. Lunch will be provided for them and their carers in Croke Park at 12.30pm. If there any eligible people in your parish willing to go they can contact me at 049-4375004 / 0877673894
CSSL are keeping open their online booking service, however, the price of one day tickets is now €35. Tickets can be bought at the gate on the day; however, pre-booking will help to cut down queuing time. You can also call 01-2981122 to make your booking and you are particularly encouraged to do this if you are booking a group.
If you have a group going on a mini-bus or coach it is very important to inform the Congress Support Services by emailing coachparking@iec2012.ie with details about times and dates of travel, the numbers travelling and the name and contact details of the coach company.
All priests are asked to ensure that they have sent their accreditation forms to Bishop Leo, along with a stamped envelope, to ensure that they can concelebrate Mass and if necessary hear confessions, at the Congress. Accredited priests will be given a white stole at registration – those who are willing to hear confessions are asked to bring a purple stole with them.
IEC2012 has now joined forces with Nursing Homes Ireland and the Health Service Executive to encourage clergy and nursing homes to facilitate the celebration of a special Mass with the Anointing of the Sick during the week of June 3rd – June 10th, the week preceding the International Eucharistic Congress. The celebration will provide nursing home residents and staff with an opportunity to celebrate this international event that will promote a renewed awareness of the centrality of the Eucharist to the life and mission of the Catholic Church. Nursing Homes Ireland and the Health Service Executive are encouraging nursing homes to give consideration towards the celebration of a special Mass to mark the Eucharistic Congress and afford residents and staff the opportunity to participate in the celebration.
Ballinamore Childcare L.t.d An Naíonra – Irish Speaking
Enrolments now been taken for Sept 2012. Free Pre school year (ECCE) for Children born between 2 Feb 2008 to 30 June 30th 2009. Also Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) scheme applies. (Reduced Childcare fees), to disadvantaged & low income parents. Open week for new children attending the service is Mon 11th June to Fri 15th June between 9.00am – 12.30pm any day. You will meet staff and see how the pre-school operates & see our daily preschool programme.
Tá failte roimh teacht sa Naíonra. For further queries contact An Stiúrthóir (play leader). Póilin Ní Mhoráin 071 96 45733 or 086 3777730.

Ballinamore’s Womens Group
A trip to Clare staying in the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon has been organised for Ballinamores Women’s group from the 14th to the 17th of September next. Cost of trip which includes transport, meals and accommodation is €275 for members and €285 for non members. A Trip to the Burren and the cliffs of Moher will be arranged at an addition fee. A non refundable sum of €50 books a place which must be paid on or before meeting on the 6th of June. Enquirers to 9642909 or 9644785

Church News
Confessions Sat 12noon – 12.30pm
Collectors 25th / 26th & 2nd / 3rd June Anne Brady, Austin Quinn, Michael Fanning, Camillus Martin
Altar Servers Sunday 27th & 2nd June (Group 3) Cathal McHugh, Thomas Darcy, James Óg Maguire
Bring in the remained of your Lourdes collection and also Vocations & Diocesan Service Collection next weekend.
Accord Centre, Cavan: Getting married 2013? Contact Accord for your Pre Marriage Application Form. Book early to get your preferred date. We also provide Marriage and Relationship Counselling in strict confidence. Contact 049 4375004 or email cavanaccord@eircom.net
Pro-Life Meeting: Thurs 24th May 8.30pm Errigal Hotel Cootehill, Co Cavan. Dr Eoghan De Faoite will speak on the looming threat to Irish Laws and explain what we need to do. Queries 01 8730465

The Chiropodist will attend in Templeport Resource Centre on next Wed 16th May from 11am.
Church News
Getting Married? Give minimum 9 months notice. The pre marriage course is the Accord Course that should be done.
Confessions Sat 12noon – 12.30pm
Congress: Booking on line has ended. You will get in by paying €35 at the entrance, but not for the closing mass.
Altar Servers Sunday 20th & 26th May (Group 2) Grainne Flynn, Emma McGovern, Aileen Flynn.

SOUTH LEITRIM PRIMARY CARE TEAM AND COMMUNITY HEALTH FORUM – COMMUNITY INFORMATION EVENING
Thursday 17th May 2012 7-9pm – Community Centre, Carrigallen
There will be talks and information on the night about
The community text alert scheme
Support for those caring for someone at home
Minding your mental health
There will also be a wide range of information about services available in the local community to help you such as Citizens Information, MABS, Fair Deal scheme, Leitrim Association for People with a Disability, services for older people and information about your local health services and how they can help you. For more information please contact Maeve MacDermott, HSE Primary Care Development Unit. 071 91 35029
A 5k May walk, run or roll in aid of Cancer Research will take place on Sunday May 20th 2012 starting from Aughnasheelin Community Centre at 1p.m. Entry Fee €10. Sponsorship cards on request – contact Cáit @ 0872123703. If you can’t walk you can still donate on http://www.mycharity.ie/event/the_may_walkrun_or_roll/.or by contacting the above number. If you’re donating but not walking why not join us anyway for refreshments in the Community Centre following the event. Come out and join us, you will not only support Cancer Research but you will also bring your friends and families together for a great fun afternoon!!

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Lotto – Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn i Bobby Joe’s. Pota Óir €2,650. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Kevin Turbitt, Dún na Bó. Voucher form Ciaran and Cathy Smith: Kevin Turbitt. €40 an duine: Peter Martin Dolan, Ardmoneen, Róisín Murray, Snugboro, Ballyconnell, Ciara Holohan, Sallyfield, Gorvagh, Niamh Nic Gabhann, Glennan Mór, Séamus Mullen, Scotstown, Co Monaghan.

ATHLETIC CLUB
Two weeks from today on Sunday May 27th at 2.00 p.m. we host the big Women’s’ 5K Roadrace in conjunction with Leitrim Sports Partnership and Leitrim County Board AAI. The event is supported by the Irish Sports Council and is an Open event held under AAI Licence. Today the Leitrim AAI Championships are being held in Manorhamilton at 2.00 p.m. with events for Under 10 upwards. Training continues Tuesday and Thursday at 7 00 p.m. Morning Workout Classes

New Indoor/outdoor morning workout classes for men and women are
starting in Ballinamore GAA Gym Tuesday morning the 22nd of May from
10am – 11am with Michelle Fanning. €20 for 4 classes. All welcome to
come along and join in. Contact 0879390980 for more information.
Ballinamore Childcare L.t.d An Naíonra – Irish Speaking
Enrolments now been taken for Sept 2012. Free Pre school year (ECCE) for Children born between 2 Feb 2008 to 30 June 30th 2009. Also Community Childcare Subvention (CCS) scheme applies. (Reduced Childcare fees), to disadvantaged & low income parents. Open week for new children attending the service is Mon 11th June to Fri 15th June between 9.00am – 12.30pm any day. You will meet staff and see how the pre-school operates & see our daily preschool programme.
Tá failte roimh teacht sa Naíonra. For further queries contact An Stiúrthóir (play leader). Póilin Ní Mhoráin 071 96 45733 or 086 3777730.
Ballinamore’s Womens Group
A trip to Clare staying in the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon has been organised for Ballinamores Women’s group from the 14th to the 17th of September next. Cost of trip which includes transport, meals and accommodation is €275 for members and €285 for non members. A Trip to the Burren and the cliffs of Moher will be arranged at an addition fee. A non refundable sum of €50 books a place which must be paid on or before meeting on the 6th of June. Enquirers to 9642909 or 9644785
Counselling Service
Bereavement and other counselling services available. Please phone (049)4372999.

Preparation Programme for Young People for the International Eucharistic Congress: Cavan: Saturday 18th May 11am to 1pm. Manorhamilton: Friday 17th May 8pm to 1pm. For more information contact Clare Coyle Kilmore Diocesan Youth Worker 0494375004.

Golf Fundraiser-Pro Am Am
Ballinamore PPS Kilimanjaro Achievers in Aid of North West Hospice and Crumlin Children’s Hospital are hosting a Golf Pro AM AM on Friday 18th May in Ballinamore Golf Club. Golfers and Non-Golfers Welcome,no experience necessary!! Fun 4 Ball Scramble. Followed by BBQ with entertainment @ 9pm. BOOKING ESSENTIAL for Tee times. Contact Ollie Moran (086) 2312369Tickets available for those who would like to support!) All Inclusive Entry Fee ONLY- €10 pp!

Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.
A 5k May walk, run or roll in aid of Cancer Research will take place on Sunday May 20th 2012 starting from Aughnasheelin Community Centre at 1p.m. Entry Fee €10. Sponsorship cards on request – contact Cáit @ 0872123703. If you can’t walk you can still donate on http://www.mycharity.ie/event/the_may_walkrun_or_roll/.or by contacting the above number. If you’re donating but not walking why not join us anyway for refreshments in the Community Centre following the event. Come out and join us, you will not only support Cancer Research but you will also bring your friends and families together for a great fun afternoon!!
Fish Awareness Day
Rinn Shannon & District Angling Club. Are holding an angling instruction day at Lough rowan [ Laura lake ] Mohill. On this Sunday 20th may from 12 to 4 pm. Trout angling methods will be shown by Rinn & district anglers. A small angling competition will be held and a live fish display will be on site. All are welcome. Call 0876254740
Ballinamore Festival 2012
It’s hard to believe but it’s getting near that time of year again…. Festival dates are now confirmed and are as Follows: Sunday 12th August until Sunday 19th August so get those holidays Booked. Tell all you friends and relations, it is a great time for family reunions. The usual high quality music and events will be alive and well that week. See you there!
Ballinamore Active Age Group
the next meeting is on Thursday 24th at 3pm in Trathnona. We are going to Lough Derg on 28th May. Will all members try to attend as we need to finalize arrangements. Anybody interested in joining us please ring Clare 071 9644945 or Maureen 071 9644116

H.S.E. SOUTH LEITRIM PRIMARY CARE TEAM AND COMMUNITY HEALTH FORUM
COMMUNITY INFORMATION EVENING
Thursday 17th May 2012 7-9pm
Community Centre
Carrigallen
There will be talks and information on the night about
the community text alert scheme
support for those caring for someone at home
minding your mental health
There will also be a wide range of information about services available in the local community to help you such as Citizens Information, MABS, Fair Deal scheme, Leitrim Association for People with a Disability, services for older people and information about your local health services and how they can help you.
For more information please contact Maeve MacDermott, HSE Primary Care Development Unit. 071 91 35029

Folk Choir Christmas C D
Ballinamore Folk Choir would like to thank everyone who purchased their Christmas c d O Holy Night, and for all the wonderful comments received. A donation of €1500 has been made to our local St Vincent De Paul. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

Golf Fundraiser-Pro Am Am
Ballinamore PPS Kilimanjaro Achievers in Aid of North West Hospice and Crumlin Children’s Hospital are hosting a Golf Pro AM AM on Friday 18th May in Ballinamore Golf Club. Golfers and Non-Golfers Welcome,no experience necessary!! Fun 4 Ball Scramble. Followed by BBQ with entertainment @ 9pm. BOOKING ESSENTIAL for Tee times. Contact Ollie Moran (086) 2312369Tickets available for those who would like to support!) All Inclusive Entry Fee ONLY- €10 pp!

SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND SAYS THANK YOU!
Special Olympics Ireland’s annual collection day, sponsored by eircom, took place on Friday 27th April. A huge thank you is due to all the volunteers who volunteered to collect throughout Co. Leitrim on the day as well as all of those who donated. Your support means bucket loads to us!

1st Leitrim Scouts, Ballinamore are holding a fund raising table quiz at Smyth’s bar, Main St at 9pm on Thursday May 10th. Cost €20 per team of 4. To reserve a team contact Lee Gartland on 0872224110.

The Kilmore Diocesan Pastoral Centre – Subscription €5.
St. Patrick’s College, Cavan – Upcoming Events – David Quinn ‘Aggressive Secularism and the Church’ Monday 14th May, 20127.45pm David Quinn is a well known journalist who specialises in religious and social affairs. Currently he has columns in both The
Church News
If there are enough names for Tuesday 12th of the Congress we will book a bus so give your name if you intend to travel.
Confessions Sat 12noon – 12.30pm
Collectors for next week-end 12th, 13th & 19th, 20th May are Vera Brennan, Tommy McWeeney, Michael Hanley & Jim Cafferty
Altar Servers Sunday 13the & 19th May (Group 1) John Conway, Christopher Maguire, Alannah Smith & Micheala Harte.

Pilgrimage to Fatima 2012
the Annual Pilgrimage to Fatima takes place from the 2nd August to the 9th August, 2012. 7 nights full board ensuite in the Tres Pastorinhos Hotel which is situated beside the Sanctuary. Cost €714. Guided Tours. Bus from Ballinamore via Cavan to Dublin Airport return – costs €30 approx. Spiritual director – Fr Tom McManus P.P. for details contact Mamie Flynn 071 96 44148
Kilmore Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Diocesan Collection takes place on Saturday May 12th and Sunday May 13th 2012. Please give generously. Your support will be much appreciated.

Irish Independent and The Irish Catholic. He frequently appears on radio and television programmes and also contributes to numerous magazines overseas. He is the Director of The Iona Institute, which promotes the place of marriage and religion in society. It also defends the continued existence of publicly-funded denominational schools and promotes freedom of conscience and religion. You will have an opportunity to interact with David on the night. Light refreshments will be served.
Counseling Service
Bereavement and other counselling services available. Please phone (049)4372999.

Opland/Freeman – World Music at The Cultural Quarters
Thursday 10th May, 21.00
A stack of instruments and songs and tunes from all over the map create an evening of variety and great music like you’ve never heard before. Our first ever show in Leitrim! Tickets €5, available from the Cultural Quarters, or pre book by phone 049 4333009 (ask for Sam).
Community Day’ – New Service –
IWA’s ‘Community Day’ Service is designed to give people with a physical or sensory disability, the opportunity to access their local town to do their shopping, go to the post office or bank, meet friends for a coffee etc. and most importantly, to get out and about and to maintain their independence.
The service will initially be provided on Fridays, commencing in early May. Members availing of the service will be collected at their home and brought to their local town where they will have the support of staff and volunteers to do their shopping and complete their errands. In North Leitrim the service will be provided to Manorhamilton and in South Leitrim to Carrick on Shannon. Buses are fully wheelchair accessible and all staff are fully trained and can provide assistance and personal care if required. If you know someone who would benefit from this support, if you are interested in availing of this service, or if you would like to find out more about how Irish Wheelchair Association can support you , contact Angela Gavigan (Resource Service Co-Ordinator) on 071 962 0811 or email angela.gavigan@iwa.ie
Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.

M.S. Leitrim Branch Would like to thank the kindness of the donors and also the collectors. Every penny of this money is spent on our Leitrim members.

The Cultural Quarters would like to thank all those who have helped and donated time or money to this historical building in our town of Ballinamore…only one thing left to say…keep it coming!! Every Tuesday from 10am..we are looking for volunteers to join our work party…any time you can spare please just turn up light lunch provided.

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Cluichí don Deireadh Seachtaine
Division 5 game away to Gortletteragh on Monday at 1.30pm. Under 16 game home to Annaduff on Tuesday at 7.00pm
Cycle Launch
Our Sponsored Cycle will be launched in Smyth’s Siopa Ól on Sunday evening at 9.30pm. All cyclists, managers and mentors of all club teams, adult, underage, hurling and ladies are asked to attend. Plans for the event will be outlined on the night. There are just seven weeks to go and enthusiasm is building up.
Lotto
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn sa Siopa Ól. Pota Óir €2,600. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Hugh McTague jnr. Buidéal uisce beatha ó Gay Prior: Helen Sweeney, Ardmeenan. €40 an duine: Mary and Gabriel Quinn, Ardrum, Gerada Burns, Clenaghoo, David Duignan, Kiltymooden, Pauline Fox, Church St, Aidan McGovern, Tráthnóna.

Catholic Singles is an organisation which helps single adult Catholics of all ages meet, either one to one or through social events. Please tel. 0161 941 3498, visit the website www.catholicsingles.org.uk or email info@catholicsingles.org.uk
Please note that whilst we have many separated & divorced Catholics amongst our members (I am widowed myself), we do not encourage them to remarry, though they do of course meet socially and for friendship, and a link to the A.S.D.C. is on our website. We are now fairly well known, and have raised forty three thousand pounds for charities & parishes over the last eleven years, but If you would like to receive more information about Catholic Singles please let me know. We are very grateful for previous help in this respect from parishes such as your own, which is vital if we are to continue,

Ballinamore Keep Fit
New keep fit program starting this week the 16th of April. Female fitness class Monday and Thursday at 8pm in the community centre. Wednesday at 6.30pm female aerobics, at 7.30pm bum’s & tum’s and 8.30pm men’s class in the SOH GAA Gym. Beginners class Tuesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Active Age class Wednesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Contact Michelle on 0879390980

Eucharistic Congress
1932 Gathering April 22nd / 23rd (Brochure attached). This involves free B&B and Lunch, April 22nd / 23rd, sponsored by the Brennan’s Green Isle Hotel for people who were at the Congress in 1932. Please consider promoting this as widely as possible as it also includes an invitation to 1932 veterans to avail of free access to the Statio Orbis. Theology Symposium http://www.iec2012.ie/index.jsp?p=108&n=147 . This is a really good programme and worth encouraging catechists, pastoral workers as well as clergy and religious and anyone with a certain level of theological formation to sign up.
Counselling Servic
Bereavement and other counselling services available. Please phone (049)4372999

ATHLETIC CLUB – Training resumes on Tuesday at the new time of 7.00 p.m. and will continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays at that time until the last week of June. Upcoming competitions being prepared for include the Leitrim Primary Schools Championships on Sunday May 6th, the Connacht Post Primary regionals on May 2nd,the Under Age Championships at County and Connacht levels as well as the County Community Games. New members are always welcome.
Women’s Group Ballinamore – The outing to Lough Erne takes place on sat the 21st of aug. The Bus leaves the square in Ballinamore at 1.30pm, and return time is approx 8.30.
PLASTIC COLLECTION: – There will be a collection of waste silage plastic at Beirne’s Filling Station, Ballinamore, on Friday 20th April between 9am and 5pm. Further info: FRS 9662781/087 3291081/086 2521699

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Bingo – Bingo continues every Tuesday at 9.00 in the Community Centre. If you haven’t been there yet, it is a very enjoyable night with good crowds and good atmosphere. Well worth attending. Beidh fáilte romhat.
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn i Pat Joe’s. Pota Óir €2,450. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Patrick Cassidy, Drumdartan Glebe. Buidéal uisce beatha ó Liam Mac Fhearghail: Daniel et Francoise, Plouezec. €40 an duine: Margaret McKeon, Aughatowny, Oshin Feeney, St Johnston, Donegal, Marie McTague (phone no), Hugh Reilly c/o Willie McWeeney, Ollie Moran, Castleroggy.

Lourdes: The annual Kilmore Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes led by Bishop Leo O’ Reilly will take place as usual from 27th May to 1st June. Bookings for the Pilgrim Section staying in Hotels is with Mc Ginnity Travel, Coleman Road, Cavan 049 4331 811 . Bookings for the Assisted Pilgrim Section staying in Accueil Notre Dame is with Rev Kevin Fay, Lavey 049 433 0018 / 08 857 9968 Email faykevin@eircom.net Early booking essential.
Floral Pride 2012 are seeking applications from community groups, schools and businesses who improve the appearance of their areas by planting trees, shrubs, flowers and keep their area looking fantastic! Free advice from horticulturalist on Tuesday, 24th April at 7.00pm, Council Offices, Carrick-on-Shannon. Application forms and workshop places – contact Jacqui in the Economic Development Section, Leitrim County Council, 071 9650496, floralpride@leitrimcoco.ie or www.leitrimcoco.ie Closing date for entries April 27th 2012.
Leitrim Third Level is offering a Certificate in PR and Publicity Skills in the Council Chamber over 3 Saturdays commencing 28th. April, 12th. May & 26th. May, 2012. Further details on leitrimthirdlevel.ie

Monaghan Charismatic Prayer, Announces
Our Annual May Novena May 1st to May 9thPreached this year by: Monsignor Francis Walsh, Fr. Joe Delaney, Fr. John Keane. This 9 days of Prayer Adoration & Reconciliation has changed many peoples lives over the years so do come along. All Welcome. More info www.mcpg.net
Ballinamore Primary School children 5th and 6th class have undertaken a mural project in the Sean O’Heslin GAA grounds over the Easter period. This was a wonderful achievement and community effort. Complements to all children, parents and teachers who were associated with this project. Thanks also to the people who prepared the wall and to the club for encouraging and accommodating the project. The club are holding a football blitz on Saturday 21st. The event will be preceded on the same day with a formal unveiling of the mural project. Everyone is welcome. For further details please see the local notes in the Leitrim Observer. Thanks everyone. Dawn.
IRISH WHEELCHAIR ASSOCIATION IS DELIGHTED TO INVITE YOU TO A COOKERY DEMONSTRATION WITH AUTHOR, BROADCASTER AND CHEF INSTRUCTOR FRANK MOYNIHAN AT THE RESOURCE CENTRE (OLD MULVEYS TOY SHOP) DUBLIN RD CARRICK ON SHANNON TUESDAY 24TH OF APRIL 2012 COMMENCING AT 8.00PM SHARP. ADMISSON €10 THIS IS FRANKS LAST DEMONSTRATION IN THIS AREA BEFORE HE RETIRES TELEPHONE TO BOOK 071 9620811
Ballinamore Bridge Club
The following are the results of the bridge from April 12th last;
1.Bernie Flynn & Peggy Logan
2.Carrie Maroney & Kay Dolan
3.Paddy Joyce & partner
Bridge continues on the 19th of April next. The final night of bridge for the season is 26th of April, all players welcome

Ballinamore Keep Fit
New keep fit program starting today Wednesday 18th in SOH GAA Gym. At 6.30pm female aerobics at 7.30pm bum’s & tum’s and 8.30pm mens class. Also fitness classes Thursday and Monday at 8pm in the community centre. Beginners class Tuesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Active Age class Wednesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Contact Michelle on 0879390980
Aqua Aerobics and Swimming lessons
Held at Riversdale Ballinamore. Monday Nights: Adult Swimming Lesson @ 7-30pm Starting Monday 16th April Aqua Aerobics @ 8-15pm No swimming skills required, It is exercise to music Thursday evening Children Swimming Lessons @ 6pm – 8pm. Starting 19th April Booking night for the above classes is Friday 13th April at 8pm at Riversdale Ballinamore. 049-4335084
Rehab Lough Allen Charity Cycle
rehab Care in association with Leitrim C C / Leitrim Sports Partnership are calling on all cyclists, enthusiastic to participate in the inaugural ReHab Lough Allen Charity Cycle, which will take place on Sunday 29th April 2012. All the money raised from the reg. fee is going towards helping Ballinamore ReaHab Care Centre. For more information log on to the facebook page ‘Cycle Challenge’ in aid of ReHab Ireland or phone Leitrim Sports Partnership 071 96 50498 or email sports@leitrimcoco.ie

Speaker for the next Carrick-on-Shannon & District Historical Society lecture will be Ballinamore man Padraig Griffin whose talk will be on “Leitrim Echoes of the Great War 1914 -11918” This lecture will cover not only County Leitrim but will include the surrounding counties with emphasis on Rockingham and the Connaught Rangers. Venue will be the Bush Hotel on Wednesday April 18that 8.30.pm All welcome
Special Olympics Ireland needs your help! – Special Olympics Ireland’s annual collection day, sponsored by eircom, will take place on Friday 27th April. Volunteers are needed to look after collection points in Carrick-on-Shannon, Manorhamilton, Ballinamore and Mohill. Even a few hours of your time will make a big difference. To find out more or to register please visit www.specialolympics.ie/collectionday or phone Lydia on 085-8031445

Ballinamore Keep Fit – New keep fit program starting this week the 16th of April. Female fitness class Monday and Thursday at 8pm in the community centre. Wednesday at 6.30pm female aerobics, at 7.30pm bum’s & tum’s and 8.30pm mens class in the SOH GAA Gym. Beginners class Tuesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Active Age class Wednesday at 11am in the GAA Gym. Contact Michelle on 0879390980

TAX RECLAIM: Would people please return all outstanding CHY2 Certs urgently please. If you have mislaid your form, please ask Fr. Heerey for one. Thank you.
FREE COMPUTER CLASSES
FAS are running a Basic Computer course in Ballinamore Library starting the end of April. The course will run for 2hrs a week for 16 weeks. There are a limited number of places available so for more information please contact Patricia on 071-9158700 for more information. FAS eligibility criteria applies.

We have Great music lined up for the gig rig with JUMP @ THE SUN performing on saturday evening and LATE NIGHT RADIO on the Sunday……

If You want to show off your teamwork skills the raft Competition will be on the canal along with a test of strength with the TUG OF WAR across the Canal…. so if you think your up for it……

The slow bicycle is on main street on Saturday evening followed by THE LOVRLY GIRL PADGENT and padgent ball….

Also get a great taste of Leitrim with the BOXTY eating Competition at the Court house it sounds easy So TRY it……..

Really there is something for everyone so DONT MISS A GREAT WEEKEND IN BALLNAMORE..

Church News
Mass Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 8am. First Friday calls on Wednesday Confessions this Sunday 7pm with 9 or 10 priests present. Confessions in the confession box holy Saturday 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Holy Week Ceremonies. Holy Thursday: Mass of the Last Supper 8pm. Vigil in the church 10pm – 11pm
Good Friday: Stations of the Cross in the graveyard 12noon 3pm ceremonies – Passion of the Lord
9pm Holy Saturday – Celebration of the Resurrection
Trocaire: Bring in you Trocaire contribution on Thurs evening. Please don’t bring in coins – change it into notes. Will two of the collectors for the week accept it at the door of the church & bring it up in the offertory collection.
Collectors for Holy Sat & Easter Sun: Noel Dolan, Jamesie Maguire, Louis Quinn, Seamus McGrath. Note: We will need a rehearsal before some of the ceremonies.
Rehearsal for Good Friday – Girls 7.30pm Wednesday
Rehearsal for Holy Thursday 8pm Wed for ‘services’ procession
A meeting of Ballinamore women’s group takes place on Wednesday April 4th at 8.30. Balance of monies due (€25) for outing on April 21st will be collected at meeting. all members asked to attend.
Ballinamore Monthly Whist Drive in the Community Centre will be on Thursday April 5th 9pm, all welcome.

S.N. BHRID NAOFA – Enrolment for Junior Infants will take place in the junior infant classroom on Tuesday 17th April between 2.00 p.m. and 2.40 p.m. If you are unable to make it that day please phone the school (Ph. No. 071 9644952) and we will arrange for forms to be posted out.
Town Twinning A group of 22 visitors from our twin town Plouezec led by their Mayor, Jacques Mangold will spend Easter in Ballinamore. Sincere thanks to all who agreed to host them. The group are looking forward to socialising and touring the area and we are sure they will receive the customary warm welcome we are famous for!. It would be nice if homes and businesses in the town displayed any flags or bunting they may have from past visits. On Easter Monday there will be a short ceremony in the square beside St Felim’s to mark the 15th anniversary of our twinning. This will be followed by dinner which will be attended by our visitors and their hosts.
SOSAD: 24 hour emergency support for anyone affected by suicide or depression on 049 4326339 and 042 9668992. Also free bereavement support and counselling available at Cavan office 3 Tower Hamlets (beside Garda Station), and Kingscourt office at St Anthony’s Lower Main Street.

ATHLETIC CLUB –
Training is suspended for the next two weeks and will resume at 7 00 p.m. on Tuesday April 16th. There will be road races in Ballinamore on Sunday April 22nd.

Lollipop Kids – Ballinamore Childcare, would like to thank everyone who took part and raised money for our recent National Pyjama Day. The event took place on 23rd March and was in aid of The National Hospice Foundation – Children’s Hospice. We raised a grand total of €275.
Tax Reclaim If you are a PAYE worker and have paid over €250 in weekly/dues contributions for 2011 the Parish can reclaim tax relief on your contributions but this does not affect your own personal tax liability. Would any parishioner who did not receive a tax reclaim form and they are a PAYE worker, please ask Fr. Heerey for a form. Would all others who received CHY2 Forms please ensure that they are signed and returned to Fr. Heerey before end of March.

SOLAS Art Gallery
Different Perspectives’ by John Gunning and ’50′ by Louis McLoughlin at the Solas Gallery Ballinamore tomorrow night (Friday Mar 30th) at 7.30pm. As usual refreshments will be served. Hope you can make it along on the night but if not be sure to drop in to see the work of both these very talented artists before the exhibition closes on April 21st.

BALLINAMORE TIDY TOWNS. Our annual Spring Clean will take place on Good Friday. Could all volunteers be in the SuperValu car park at 11am. Refreshments will be served after the town clean up. SuperValu are the National Tidy Town Sponsors. If you know an area or roadside that is very littered, let us know. We will help to organise a clean up with the help of the people who live there, so that this can become a yearly tidy up. April is the National Spring Clean month for An Taisce in Ireland. Many hands make light work. Our AGM will take place on wednesday 11 April at 9pm in Smyths Siopa ol. Could each organisation arrange for one person to attend. The Tidy Towns judging starts at the end of May. A big thank you to everybody who is out painting their houses, garden walls and fences.

A Charity Bridge Competition will be held in The Bush Hotel Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday the 6th April at 6pm. All Bridge players welcome, including novices. Admission (including supper) is €15.”

Aqua Aerobics and Swimming lessons held at Riversdale Ballinamore.
Monday Nights: Adult Swimming Lesson @ 7-30pm Starting Monday 16th April
Aqua Aerobics @ 8-15pm No swimming skills required, It is exercise to music
Thursday evening Children Swimming Lessons @ 6pm – 8pm. starting 19th April
Booking night for the above classes is Friday 13th April at 8pm at Riversdale Ballinamore.
Many thanks for your kind help Helen O Hara 049-4335084 049-4335084

Ballinamore PPS Student’s to Trek Kilimanjaro for Charity
A group of Students and teachers from Ballinamore PPS are undertaking a fundraising campaign for the National charity, Crumlin Children’s Hospital and The North West Hospice. They intend to summit Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa in December this year with a group called the Kilimanjaro Achievers. Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and stands at 5,895m tall. This is both a physical and mental task and will indeed need much fundraising. The students and their teachers will be fundraising in local shops and in the local area in the forthcoming weeks and months and all support will be greatly appreciated. Their first fundraising activity will take place in Tesco Ballinamore on Easter Saturday 7th of April. There will be light entertainment on the day as well as some fun events not to mention bag packing and shopping carrying ! Come along and show your support for two very worthy charities! You never know you could go home with an Easter Egg!

Ballinamore Pool League 2012
The Pool League is getting under way on Fri 13th April, and the closing date for entry is Fri 6th April because a set of fixtures need to drawn and distributed as soon as possible, we are returning to the Home/Away basis with the top four teams qualifying for the Semi’s, a set of rules are being finalized and will be handed round this week, also we are bringing back selling Pool cards to help raise the Prize money fund. So get practicing folks.
Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.

Call to Community & Voluntary Groups for Expression of Interest in the Tús Programme
The Tús Programme is a community work placement scheme which provides one year work placement opportunities for unemployed people. These work opportunities will be within the community sector. TUS allows Community Groups and Voluntary Organisations in Leitrim to avail of a part time worker to carry out tasks, actions or projects on their behalf and in their community. If your Community Group or Voluntary Organisation is interested in the programme, contact Leitrim Development Company for an Expression of Interest form. Closing date for receipt of completed Expression of Interest Forms Is Monday, 16th April 2012 For further information call (071) 9641770 or email info@ldco.ie
TÚS PROGRAMME
New opportunities for communities and voluntary groups and people who are unemployed
Leitrim Development Company will soon commence filling an additional 20 places on the TUS programme which have been allocated by the Department of Social Protection. Leitrim Development Company Chairperson, Pat Monahan said that ‘providing real support for those who are unemployed in the community is a key priority for everyone. Leitrim Development Company recognises that in the current economic climate the voluntary sector has suffered from the effects of reduced funding from both public sources and fund-raising, and at the same time increase in demand for local services and support. The Tús Initiative, where community and voluntary groups provide one year jobs in the community, will enable both the community and voluntary sector and the unemployed to benefit”.
Tús will provide short-term, quality opportunities for unemployed people to work in community and voluntary bodies providing a broad range of services of benefit to communities. Participants will be paid the full jobseekers rate plus, an additional €20 per week. Under 25-year-olds will be paid the maximum Jobseekers Allowance plus €20 per week which makes Tús placement very attractive for this group. The employment will be insured for all benefits under the social insurance system.
Participants will work for 19½ hours per week for 12 months in quality employment. To qualify participants must be unemployed for more than 12 months and in receipt of Jobseekers Assistance will be offered the opportunity to consider a placement by the Department of Social Protection. This will help support unemployed people in remaining job-ready for re-entry to employment as the economic environment improves and the work done will be of great benefit to community groups and voluntary organisations.
All of the work undertaken while participating on Tús will be beneficial to the local community and the types of projects carried out are likely to include: -
1. Energy conservation work in homes and community buildings;
2. Social care of all age groups and people with disabilities;
3. Caretaking, securing, supervising of community buildings and spaces;
4. Renovation of community and sporting facilities, including the regeneration and enhancement of community, recreation and sporting spaces;
5. Work in support of cultural and heritage activities;
6. Community administration and community event management;
7. Coaching for sporting activities; and
8. Repair of equipment for developing countries – Farm tools, bicycles, computers, sewing machines, health equipment etc.
Leitrim Development Company aims to fill the 20 new places with community and voluntary groups in the County by the end of May 2012. Any Community and Voluntary Groups wishing to register their interest in availing of a TUS placement should contact Karen Guihen, Leitrim Development Company, Church Street, Drumshanbo, 071 9641770 email: info@ldco.ie or karen@ldco.ie .
Karate Club
The opening of the new Karate Club last Thursday evening in the Ballinamore Community Centre was a huge success with children from five to teenagers enjoying the class, with Sensie O’Keeffe’s 40 years training and teaching in the martial arts, he is looking to pass on his world of knowledge. Next class is on Thursday the 12th of April from 6pm to 7pm for further please contact Michael on 087 6389549
Ballinamore Pike Anglers
fished for the Smyth’s Cup on Saturday 24th March on Keeldra Lake.
1st Mick Crosby 20lb 6oz pike
2nd Ollie Gallagher 19lb 4oz pike
3rd Sean Murray 16lb 10oz
the fishing was excellent on the day with over 50 pike caught – 30 of them over 10lb. Congratulations t Ollie Gallagher who won the League and caught 5 pike weighing between 14lb and 19lb. He is truly the Master Angler!
Trim up for Trocaire‏ – Come along to Ballinamore Community Centre on Easter Monday the 9th of April and burn off those Easter Eggs as a family while getting fit and having fun. From 8-9pm there will be an exercise to music session and activities the family can enjoy. All donations recieved will go to Trocaire. For more information contact Michelle Fanning Leitrim’s GP Exercise Referral co-ordinator on 0879390980
Keep fit classes in Ballinamore
Female classes Monday and Thursday at 8pm in the community centre. Female beginners class at 11am Tuesday. Active age class at 11am Wednesday. Female class at 6.30pm and 7.30pm Wednesday. Male class at 8.30pm Wednesday. All above classes in the SOH GAA Gym. Contact Michelle on 0879390980 for more information.
Results of bridge on Thursday 29th March
Joint 1st Fr Duffy Paddy Joyce
Monica Sharpley Bernie Flynn
2nd Sean Creamer Kevin mc Gill
3rd Carrie Maroney Maureen Dolphin
Bridge resumes on 12th April @7 30pm
All players welcome.
Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Our sponsored cycle is getting closer and Bríd Sullivan is keen to hear from everyone who intends to cycle. Please give Bríd a ring if you intend to cycle and raise sponsorship.
Bingo – Change of Time
Bingo is now at 9.00pm on Tuesdays. Great to see a good crowd in attendance. Míle buíochas.
Lotto
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn i Lawrence’s. Pota Óir €2,350. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Hugh McTague. Buidéal uisce beatha ó Jackie agus Catherine: Aidan McGovern. €40 an duine: Kevin Turbitt, Dún na Bó, Rory O’Rourke (on-line entry), Seán Earley, Bernadette Spellman, Diffier, Drumshanbo, Margaret Costello, Ardrum.

The following are the results of bridge on Thursday 22th last;
1. Kay Dolan & Josie McGovern
2. Mary Mctiernan & Mary Flynn
3. Sean Creamer & Carrie Maroney
4. Monica Sharpley & Bernie Flynn
Bridge continues on Thursday 29th at 7.30

Church News
Daily Mass 8am
Confessions Saturday 12 noon – 12.30pm
Confessions for Easter next Sunday 1st April at 7pm.
Collectors for 31st March & Sun 1st April & 7th & 8th April: Noel Dolan, Jamesie Maguire, Louis Quinn, Seamus McGrath

Readers & Writers Group
a readers and writers group (books supplied) are being held in Ballinamore, both non profit making. Telephone Angela for more information at 071 96 44923.

A meeting of Ballinamore women’s group takes place on Wednesday April 4th at 8.30. Balance of monies due (€25) for outing on April 21st will be collected at meeting. all members asked to attend.
Ballinamore Monthly Whist Drive
Will be held in the Community Centre will be on Thursday April 5th 9pm, all welcome.
Ballinamore Active Age. The next meeting in will be in Tranona Community Centre on Thursday 29th March at 3pm. Will all members please attend as we will be disturbing the intervention cheese, also to organise the theatre outing to see ‘I dreamed a dream’, and day trips in May.
LEITRIM DIABETES FEDERATION OF IRELAND BRANCH
Public Information Evening and Annual General Meeting in Cox’s Restaurant, Dromod, on Thursday March 29th at 8 00 p.m.Title-” Education and Self Management for Type2 Diabetes- The Leitrim Experience”. Speakers- Ms Carmel Mulvey Community Dietician HSE West Carrick on Shannon and Ms Patricia Crocock. Diabetes Clinical Nurse Specialist HSE West, Sligo General Hospital. There will be a range of Stands featuring diabetes related products. Refreshments provided. All welcome.
Senior Citizens Social
the first social of the year will be held in Trathnona on Wednesday 28th of March at 9pm. Refreshments will be served, come along for a great night of music and dancing.
United Christian Aid Is once again appealing for Clothes for families & orphanages in Moldova. Any kind of wearable clothing, men’s, women’s, Childrens. Bed wear, nappies, soft toys. In need of Communion & wedding dresses. Collection will take place at O’ Briens sport shop, Ballinamore on Saturday 31st March 2012from 11am to 4pm only. For further information contact Lily O’Brien on (071)9644043 (071)9644043

Last Call to Volunteer for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress 2012 will take place in Dublin from 10th to 17th June 2012. This will be the biggest international event in Ireland in 2012 and one that will have a significant impact for Ireland and for the Irish Catholic Church. Volunteers will have an integral role to play in the success of the Congress. Volunteers are now being recruited for a wide range of roles and if you would like to get involved please visit the Congress website www.iec2012.ie/volunteer and fill out an online application or request an application form from the Congress office on (01) 2349919 or volunteeradmin@iec2012.ie. Please note that the closing date for volunteer applications is Saturday 17th March 2012.

Karate Classes in Matsubayashi Shorin-Ryu
will be starting next Thurs the 29th March and every thurs from 6 to 7pm in Ballinamore Community Centre, all ages welcome for further information please contact Michael O’Keefe on 087 6389549
Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Bingo – Change of Time
Bingo continues on Tuesday in the Community Centre, with the time changed to 9.00pm next Tuesday and on following weeks. The Bingo has been very well supported. Míle buíochas.
Lotto – Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn i Jackie’s. Pota Óir €2,300. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Seán Ó Súilleabháin. 2 x €20 from Terry Shortt: Michael Brady, Lahard and Josie Creamer, Lahard.€40 an duine: Rosaleen Donohoe, Boxmore, Gary Donohoe, Knockanroe, Philip Cassidy, Tráthnóna, Michael McGirl, Aughnasheelin, Hazel M Evans, Ballinacargy.

Church Gate Collection
there will be a church gate collection for the Ballinamore Apostolic Society on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th March for the foreign missions. Your support would be gratefully appreciated.

Ballinamore Tidy Towns News
Presently we are drawing up a five year plan; we would like your short, medium and long term ideas for your area and
for the town. Please contact Tommy Dolan chairman, Declan Cumiskey Treasurer or email ballinamoretidytowns@gmail.com. Thanks to Leitrim Development Co. for funding this project for six towns in South Leitrim. The committee will be holding its AGM shortly. We would appreciate if one member from each organisation would attend. Lately, there is a lot of dog fouling on our pavements. This is unhygienic, unsightly and against the litter laws. Could those responsible please bring their pooper scoopers with them while walking their dogs. Our 4th Annual Spring Clean will be taking place on Good Friday, assembling in the SuperValu car park. SuperValu are the National Tidy Towns competition sponsor.
An Naíonra
won the best Community Float at this years parade.Go raibh maith agaibh do na Páisti – tuismathoirí agus an foireann ar an lá.

Two day Agricultural Science Revision Course on 2nd and 3rd April from 10am – 4pm in Ballinamore area. Course revision notes will be provided and exam tips given from experienced teachers. Please call 086 1925895 or 087 9564411 for further details
Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.
Ballinamore Festival Facebook Link
keep up with coming activities on the Facebook linkThe 46th Ballinamore Family Festival Takes Place On The 12 – 19 August 2012.
With A Huge Line Up Of Free Open Air Concerts & Free Events Daily For Adults & Kids! Stay Tuned Closer To The Event For Announcements!
Visit www.facebook.com/ballinamorefestival To Keep Up To Date With All The Latest News! Invite Your Friends!
Pilgrimage to Fatima 2012 –
The Annual Pilgrimage to Fatima takes place from the 2nd August to the 9th August 2012. 7 nights full board ensuite in the Tres Pastorinhos Hotel which is situated beside the Sanctuary. Cost €714. Guided Tours. Bus from Ballinamore via Cavan to Dublin Airport Return – Cost €30 approx. Spiritual Director – Fr Tom McManus P.P. for details contact Mamie Flynn 071 96 44148

Church Gate Collection
there will be a church gate collection for the Ballinamore Apostolic Society on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th March for the foreign missions. Your support would be gratefully appreciated.

Ballinamore Bridge Club
Results of bridge held on Thursday 15th March are as followS
1ST Fr Duffy Paddy Joyce
2nd Carrie Maroney Monica Sharpley
3rd Peggy Logan Margaret Nellis
4th Bernadette Spollen Kay Dolan
Bridge continues on Thursday 22nd March @7 30 pm all players welcome.

Ballinamore Tidy Towns News The committee, in association with Leitrim County Council Environmental officer Linda Lyons are holding a Electrical and Battery recycling day on Friday 23rd March, from 10am to 4pm in the Tesco car park in Ballinamore. Presently we are drawing up a five year plan; we would like your short, medium and long term ideas for your area and for the town. Please contact Tommy Dolan chairman, Declan Cumiskey Treasurer or email ballinamoretidytowns@gmail.com. Thanks to Leitrim Development Co. for funding this project for six towns in South Leitrim. The committee will be holding its AGM shortly. We would appreciate if one member from each organisation would attend. Lately, there is a lot of dog fouling on our pavements. This is unhygienic, unsightly and against the litter laws. Could those responsible please bring their pooper scoopers with them while walking their dogs? Our 4th Annual Spring Clean will be taking place on Good Friday, assembling in the SuperValu car park. SuperValu are the National Tidy Towns competition sponsor.

Cultural Quarter Ballinamore
Monday Italian classes with (Al O’Rourke) (new course starting again in September)
Tuesday Taiji Chi 12-1pm with Romy (who has 30 yrs experience)
Wednesday Meditation class 8-9pm with Ferris (who is an experienced therapist)
Thursday knitting club from 2pm with Dorothy Laity (Who has knitting and crocheting skills)
Friday (6th April only) DVD showing for the Astronomy club 7.30pm with (Christophe Lambardi)
Sunday writing group 7-9pm with (Angela McCabe)
CQ www.fundit.ie campaign that we have going and donations are needed to keep the building going as we are a non profit organisation.
We are also offering Memory lane antiques and tea and cakes, second hand books are for sale and anyone can make a donation to the CQ directly. We are also looking for people with spare time who can lend a hand to start to repair this historic building of Ballinamore and help improve our town and have an attraction for tourists to visit once we have the cells down stairs uncovered. We intend to provide a tour of the town at night time so people can learn about the history of Ballinamore during the summer months which will be in cooperated with the Ballinamore Free Fringe Festival.
For more information please phone Tracy on 0864082630 or email: theculturalquarters@gmail.com

Readers & Writers Group
a readers and writers group (books supplied) are being held in Ballinamore, both non profit making. Telephone Angela for more information at 071 96 44923.

Septic Tank Waste Water and the Environment
Information Evenings
In order to help bring clarity to and facilitate a better understanding of waste water and the Septic Tank issue Irish Rural Link are hosting a series of local information evenings in County Leitrim
Venues and dates for the information evenings are as follows;
Monday 19th March Ballinamore Community Centre 9.00pm – 10.30pm
Tuesday 20th March Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon 8.00pm – 9.30pm
Wednesday 21th March Glens Centre, Manorhamilton 8.00pm – 9.30pm
All welcome
Objective:
The objective of the information evenings is to bring some clarity to the debate on waste water/environment and to assist with understanding the details in the recently released draft standards.
The draft standards just released by Minister Hogan, Dept of Environment sets out in full the details of what his department proposes to include in standards for the operation and maintenance of septic tanks and other waste water treatment systems.
The document was drafted in consultation with officials from the Environmental Protection Agency and local authorities and the Minister as part of the consultation process promised, is now inviting submissions from the public for a one month period up to and including Friday, 30 March 2012.
Further Information:
For further details please contact Irish Rural Link at info@irishrurallink.ie or on 09064 82744 09064 82744
About Irish Rural Link:
Irish Rural Link represents the interests of locally based rural groups in disadvantaged and marginalised rural areas by highlighting problems, advocating appropriate policies, sharing experiences and examples of good practice. It has a membership of over 600 rural community groups dedicated to sustainable rural development and represents rural communities at a national and international level.
Consultation Document available here: http://www.environ.ie/en/Environment/Water/WaterServices/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,29546,en.pdf
Agenda 21:
Attendance at these information evenings is free of charge made possible through sponsorship from Local Agenda 21-Environmental Partnership Fund 2011, – an action plan of the United Nations (UN) related to sustainable development.
Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Cluichí don Deireadh Seachtaine
Seniors play Shield against Aughavas in Aughavas at 2.00pm on Monday. Division 3 game away to Mohill on Sunday at 2.00pm
Bingo – ar an Máirt
Our first Bingo was a great success. Bingo continues on Tuesday night next at 8.30 in the Community Centre
Lotto
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn sa Heritage Bar. Pota Óir €2,250. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Philip Cassidy, Lahard €20 Marge McLoughlin, Oughteragh. Prizes of €10 for underage players: Barry McGovern, Lisacarn, Claire Maxwell, Dromore, Peter Reynolds, Jnr, Darren Maxwell, Dromore. €40 an duine: Darren Creamer, Lahard, Seamus Mulleaney, Kilclare, Dominic McGovern, Lisacarn, Hazel Evans, Ballinacargy, Co Westmeath, Dominic McGovern, Lisacarn.
The Maynooth Chamber choir will be hosting a concert in St.Patricks
church, Ballinamore, Co.Leitrim at 8.p.m sharp on Friday the 23rd of March. Tickets are on sale and can be purchased by contacting Aisling on 087 7740616 / 087 7740616 or Caroline on 087 9928218 087 9928218. Other queries can also be e-mailed to aisling.s90@gmail.com Ticket prices are €12 and €10 for students and O.A.P’s. This concert will be truly enjoyable with a variety of music to suit all. The main core of the music is sacred. Feel free to contact us for any other
information.

United Christian Aid
is once again appealing for Clothes for families & orphanages in Moldova. Any kind of wearable clothing, men’s, women’s, Childrens. Bed wear, nappies, soft toys. In need of Communion & wedding dresses. Collection will take place at O’ Briens sport shop, Ballinamore on Saturday 31st March 2012from 11am to 4pm only. For further information contact Lily O’Brien on (071)9644043

“LEITRIM ECHOES OF THE GREAT WAR”
The final talk in the highly successful Leitrim County Library Winter Lecture Series will be delivered by Pádraig Griffin on Friday March 23rd at 8pm in Ballinamore Library. The title of the lecture is “Leitrim Echoes of the Great War” and it will be of particular relevance to relatives of men who took part in and either died or survived World War I, second level history students and those interested in history.
Topics covered will be the state of Ireland and Europe leading up to the outbreak of the war with particular reference to the Ballinamore area; the effects of the outbreak of the war locally and nationally; the various actions of the war which involved Irish Soldiers; the effect of the war on subsequent political developments in Ireland and Europe; the men who never came home – approximately 270 from Leitrim and over 35,000 in total; the aftermath of the war including the human cost and the deficiencies of the peace treaty.
This is a free event and everyone is welcome.

The Chiropodist will attend in Templeport Resource Centre
on next Wed 21st March from 11am.

Cultural quarters Ballinamore
A huge thank you to everyone who came to see our rendition of Red Herring’s Murder On The Disorientated Express on Friday last, 9th March, in The Cultural Quarters, which played to a full house, who also got a chance to meet
members of the Cavan based Kelly Melia family (with assistant dog Aidan) & learn about how Aidan is supporting Luke’s “Right to be upright”.
(Interested parties can access a YouTube Video called ‘fall down six times, get up seven’ for more information)
Our wonderful cast and crew were:
Aisling Blackburn (Garadice)
Niamh Blackburn (Garadice)
Sam Burke (Carrigallen – thanks also for technical support)
Kimberly Cowley (Ballinamore)
Dorothy “Mouse” Laity (Ballinamore)
Christophe Lombardi (Ballinamore)
Susie Minto (Cloone)
Tracy Murray (Ballinamore – thanks also for use of the CQ building for rehearsals and performance)
Al O’Rourke (Ballinamore)
and our fabulous Junior Assistant-Director, Olivia (Aughnasheelin NS)
Thanks to the generosity of the audience, after covering the costs of the evening,
we are delighted to be donating €80 each to Irish Dogs For The Disabled & The Cultural Quarters, Ballinamore.
Our thanks also to Mrs Theresa Kennedy of Glenview House, who donated the prize for the best audience costume (Ladies’ category).

Events include..

Piglet Hurdle Race

The Piglets Ball

Fool’s Raft Challenge.

Lovely Girls Pageant & Fancy Dress Hooley

Little Fools Disco.

School Around The Corner.

Three Club Golf Competition.

Boxty Eating Competition

Crazy Football Competition for Kids.

Conor Lambert Puppet Show.

Barge Handling Competition.

Fishing Competition.

Water Sports.

Tug of War Across The Canal…..

AND DON’T FORGET LIVE BANDS PREFORMING LIVE ON THE GIG RIG SATURDAY & SUNDAYGet ur bets ready.. keep up to date check us out on Facebook…. BALLINAMOREAPRILFOOL’S SPRAOI

Ballinamore Festival
This year’s dates for the festival are 12th to 19th August. So tell all your friends and relation, fingers crossed for good weather!
Darts
The first semi-final of the Ballinamore Cup sponsored by the Ballinamore League was played last Friday night; between Shortt’s (A) and Jackie’s in McGirl’s, a good crowd turned up to see a very close and exciting game, Shortt’s winning it in the end by (5) games to (3). Thanks to all who bought tickets, thanks to Liam who sponsored the bottle, and thanks to Connor Scollan who helped with the marking. The second semi-final will be played next Friday night the 16th of March, the semi-finalist are McGirl’s and Shortt’s (B), and the venue is Freddie’s starting time 10.30pm sharp.
Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.
Table Quiz
Fundraiser for Ballinamore Boxing Club
in Smyth’s Bar Friday 16th March @ 9pm – €5 per person, table of 4.
Generous prizes for 1st and 2nd place. Raffle on the night. Proceeds to cover registration with the IABA insurance for club and general running costs of the club.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Annual Parade will take place on Saturday 17th March at 3.30pm, leaving from St. Felim’s Square. The Business Association wish to encourage businesses, local groups, local organisations, schools and individuals to take part and enter in to the spirit of the Parade. So get your thinking hats on and hopefully we will have a lovely day.
More information later.
Church News
Morning Mass Mon to Fri 8am.
The St Patrick’s Day envelopes collection is in aid of Kilmore Mission work in Nigeria where Fr Benny Fitzpatrick is representing us – be generous
Fr Liam Kelly will give a talk on Thursday 22nd March in the Community Centre on ‘The Eucharist’ in preparation for the Congress.
Congress: if you go to the website there is now a form you can download which makes it easier to book for the Congress.
Collectors for 17th 18th & 24th 25th March: Mickey Dolan, Liam McGovern, Pat Joe Dolan & Dessie Wisley.
Some application forms for Statio Orbis tickets
Have not been sent back before the February 24th closing date and the extended closing date of March 5th. I presume, therefore, that these tickets are not going to be used by the relevant parishes. I will begin the process of redistributing these tickets next week to parishes and individuals who are on our waiting list. This is a final call to those who still have application forms to return them as quickly as possible with payment (€10) enclosed. Cheques are made payable to Kilmore Diocesan Pastoral Centre.
United Christian Aid is once again appealing for Clothes for families & orphanages in Moldova. Any kind of wearable clothing, men’s, women’s, Childrens. Bed wear, nappies, soft toys. In need of Communion & wedding dresses. Collection will take place at O’ Briens sport shop, Ballinamore on Saturday 31st March 2012from 11am to 4pm only. For further information contact Lily O’Brien on (071)9644043 (071)9644043
Are You Spring Cleaning??? Why not put those unwanted items to good use:1st Leitrim –
Ballinamore Beavers/Cubs/Scouts Ventures Fundraising Family Day on St. Patrick’s Day in Community Centre (after parade). New or Used Items need for Lucky Dip & Bric-a-Brac Stalls – CD’s/ DVDs, Books, Jewellery, Toys, Unwanted Gifts, Ornaments, All Games including Board Games /Nintendo / XBox / Playstation etc.. Also any uniform items such as School / Cub / Scouts /Dancing shoes/ Football boots etc..etc..etc. Drop your Luck Dip items into Lyric offices on High Street any day between 9am and 5pm until Friday 16th March. Thank you for your support.

Last Call to Volunteer for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress 2012 will take place in Dublin from 10th to 17th June 2012. This will be the biggest international event in Ireland in 2012 and one that will have a significant impact for Ireland and for the Irish Catholic Church. Volunteers will have an integral role to play in the success of the Congress. Volunteers are now being recruited for a wide range of roles and if you would like to get involved please visit the Congress website www.iec2012.ie/volunteer and fill out an online application or request an application form from the Congress office on (01) 2349919 or volunteeradmin@iec2012.ie. Please note that the closing date for volunteer applications is Saturday 17th March 2012.

First Leitrim Scouts:
Anyone who is or has been in First Leitrim Scouts or has any pictures, old uniforms, stories or information that they would like to donate to us would be greatly appreciated! We are currently in the development of a new scout den and are trying to collect s much things as possible. Anyone with any sort of information could ye please e-mail 1stleitrimscoutsection@gmail.com and let us know, also if people would like to receive information on the First Leitrim Scouts please e-mail also. Greatly appreciated!

Readers & Writers Group
a readers and writers group (books supplied) are being held in Ballinamore, both non profit making. Telephone Angela for more information at 071 96 44923.

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Lotto sa Pháirc
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn sa Chlubtheach, Páirc Sheáin Uí Eislin. Pota Óir €2,200. €40: Gearóid Ó Mathúna, Buidéal uisce beatha ón gCommercial: Séamus Mac Murchaidh. Leabhar don Bingo, Oilibhéar Ó Móráin, Caiseal Raige. €40 an duine: Aindrias Ó Dubhthaigh, Achadh Dearca, Adrian Mac Gabhann, Sráid Ard, Seán Ó Riain, Bríd Ó Neachtain, Nollaig Ó Dúláin, Lios na Tulca

Friday 16th March. Table Quiz, Berry’s Bar, Drumshanbo8.30pm.
South Leitrm Macrare holding a table quiz on Friday night 16TH March in Berrys Bar, Drumshanbo at 8.30 pm. raffle on the night with lots of great prizes to be won and light refreshments Teams of four for €20. All welcome Claire on 086 8826929 / Oisin on 086 2360498 or email southleitrimmacra@hotmail.com
Ballinamore Bridge Club
Results of bridge for Thursday 8th March
1st Howard Cusack, Kevin Regan
2nd Carrie Maroney, Maureen Dolphin
3rd Josie McGovern, Kay Dolan
4th Mary McTiernan, Mary Flynn
Bridge continues on Thursday 15th at 7.30 in the Commercial Hotel.

“LEITRIM ECHOES OF THE GREAT WAR”
The final talk in the highly successful Leitrim County Library Winter Lecture Series will be delivered by Pádraig Griffin on Friday March 23rd at 8pm in Ballinamore Library. The title of the lecture is “Leitrim Echoes of the Great War” and it will be of particular relevance to relatives of men who took part in and either died or survived World War I, second level history students and those interested in history.
Topics covered will be the state of Ireland and Europe leading up to the outbreak of the war with particular reference to the Ballinamore area; the effects of the outbreak of the war locally and nationally; the various actions of the war which involved Irish Soldiers; the effect of the war on subsequent political developments in Ireland and Europe; the men who never came home – approximately 270 from Leitrim and over 35,000 in total; the aftermath of the war including the human cost and the deficiencies of the peace treaty.
This is a free event and everyone is welcome.

FOR BALLINAMORE CHURCH NOTES.
Evening to lift your spirits!
Tish Dunleavy’s ‘Sweet Spirit Gospel Choir’ will present an evening of uplifting and inspirational songs in the ‘Hunt Hall’ Mohill on Friday 16th March 8.30pm sharp!
The repertoire includes songs such as ‘ O’Happy Day’,’ I’ll Fly Away’, ‘ Your love is liftin’ me Higher’ and many more well known up-tempo pieces. Pupils from the Hunt National School will also perform and the Aughawillan Scor Novelty Act, written & produced by Frank Cadam will guarantee a good laugh during the interval.
Tish who set up the choir is also the musical director and accompanist and conductor is Maryann McBrien.
Ballinamore April Fools Spraoi 13th – 15th April 2012
Another fun date for your diary! Ballinamore April Fools Spraoi – a fun filled weekend for all family during the Easter Bread. Look out for more details in the coming months about this future annual event.
Pilgrimage to Fatima 2012 –
The Annual Pilgrimage to Fatima takes place from the 2nd August to the 9th August 2012. 7 nights full board ensuite in the Tres Pastorinhos Hotel which is situated beside the Sanctuary. Cost €714. Guided Tours. Bus from Ballinamore via Cavan to Dublin Airport Return – Cost €30 approx. Spiritual Director – Fr Tom McManus P.P. for details contact Mamie Flynn 071 96 44148

1st Leitrim Fundraising Day 17th March‏
Are You Spring Cleaning??? Why not put those unwanted items to good use:
1st Leitrim – Ballinamore Beavers/Cubs/Scouts Ventures Fundraising Family Day on St. Patrick’s Day in Community Centre (after parade). New or Used Items need for Lucky Dip & Bric-a-Brac Stalls – CD’s/ DVDs,Books, Jewellery,Toys,Unwanted Gifts,Ornaments, All Games including Board Games /Nintendo / XBox / Playstation etc.. Also any uniform items such as School / Cub / Scouts /Dancing shoes/ Football boots etc..etc..etc. Drop your Luck Dip items into Lyric offices on High Street any day between 9am and 5pm until Friday 16th March.
Thank you for your support.

Darts
The first round of the Ballinamore Cup sponsored by the Ballinamore League was played last Friday night. The results were, Jackies (5) Ossies (4) Shortt’s (A) (5) Fenagh (2) McGirl’s (5) Freddie’s (0) Shortt’s (B) (5) Drumcoura (2). The first semi-final in this competition will be played next Friday night the 9th of March between Shortt’s (A) and Jackie’s, the venue is McGirl’s starting time 10.30pm sharp. The second semi-final between McGirl’s and Shortt’s (B) will be played on Friday night the 16th of March and the venue for that is Freddie’s.
Ballinamore Pike Anglers Club
Fished for the Belfast Trophy on 28th January on Kinkeen Lake.
1st Sean Murray 5lb 13ozs Pike
2nd John Creamer 3lb 10ozs
3rd Ollie Gallagher 3lb 8ozs
Ollie is now leading the League with his brother Tony just behind by 1 point. Barry Taylor’s new floats – tennis balls caught 3 pike using them. At least his fishing is better than his tennis playing talents!

Ballinamore Pike Anglers Club
Fished for the D.C.P. Cup on Saturday 25th Feb on Kiltybardon Lake.
1st Alan Gallagher 9lb 15ozs
2nd Shane Gallagher 4lb 10ozs
3rd Kevin Mullin 3lb 10ozs
It was a beautiful day out on the lake, but not too many fish were caught. Bob didn’t make it.

Church News
Daily Mass 8am & Sat 10am
Confessions Sat 12 noon – 12.30pm
Collectors for next w/ends 10th 11th Paddy McGourty, Thomas Kelly, Gerry Mahon & Seddie McGovern.
A statue of Our Lady of Fatima, blessed by Pope Paul V1 is being brought around the country and is kept for a short time in the church it visits. It arrives here in Ballinamore next Wed 7th March with mass and prayers to Our Lady at 7pm. You are invited to attend.
We congratulate our young people who received Confirmation in Corlough today (Sat) and their parents and families
A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY FOR A MUSICAL TREAT!
TISH DUNLEAVY’S ‘SWEET SPIRIT ECUMENICAL GOSPEL CHOIR’ WILL PRESENT AN EVENING OF UPLIFTING AND INSPIRATIONAL SONGS IN THE ‘HUNT HALL’ MOHILL ON FRIDAY 16TH MARCH 8.30PM SHARP! THE SONGS HAVE A BROAD BASED SOUND WITH A SOUTHERN GOSPEL & COUNTRY RHYTHM FEEL. THEIR REPERTOIRE INCLUDES WELL KNOWN SONGS SUCH AS ‘ O’HAPPY DAY’,‘I’LL FLY AWAY’, NINA SIMONE’S BEAUTIFUL SONG ‘I WISH I KNEW WHAT IT MEANS TO BE FREE’, OTHER SONGS MADE FAMOUS BY WILLIE NELSON AND JOHNNY CASH SUCH AS ‘IN THE SWEET BY AND BY’ AND ‘WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN’ PLUS MANY MORE WELL KNOWN UPTEMPO PIECES. MEMBERS FROM THE AREA INCLUDE MARYANN MCBRIEN (CONDUCTOR), TERESA CLYNE, JOE PHELAN, PETER KILKENNY & MANY MORE. PUPILS FROM THE HUNT NATIONAL SCHOOL WILL ALSO PERFORM AND THE AUGHAWILLAN SCOR NOVELTY ACT, WRITTEN & PRODUCED BY FRANK CADAM WILL GUARANTEE A GOOD LAUGH DURING THE INTERVAL. TISH WHO SET UP THE CHOIR IS ALSO THE MUSICAL DIRECTOR AND ACCOMPANIST.

Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.

An Evening of Reflection on the theme of the International Eucharistic Congress ‘The Eucharist: Communion with Christ and with One Another’ will take place in the Parish Hall and St. Mary’s Church, Teemore, on Sunday March 11th, 2012 from 3pm to 6pm. All are welcome.
Pilgrimage to Fatima 2012 –
The Annual Pilgrimage to Fatima takes place from the 2nd August to the 9th August 2012. 7 nights full board ensuite in the Tres Pastorinhos Hotel which is situated beside the Sanctuary. Cost €714. Guided Tours. Bus from Ballinamore via Cavan to Dublin Airport Return – Cost €30 approx. Spiritual Director – Fr Tom McManus P.P. for details contact Mamie Flynn 071 96 44148
Ballinamore Post-Primary Schools.
Enrolment and Open Day will take place in the Vocational School, Ballinamore, on Saturday 10th March: 2.00-4.00pm.
Parents wishing to enrol students are asked to bring the students PPS Number and a copy of their Birth Certificate.

Last Call to Volunteer for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress 2012 will take place in Dublin from 10th to 17th June 2012. This will be the biggest international event in Ireland in 2012 and one that will have a significant impact for Ireland and for the Irish Catholic Church. Volunteers will have an integral role to play in the success of the Congress. Volunteers are now being recruited for a wide range of roles and if you would like to get involved please visit the Congress website www.iec2012.ie/volunteer and fill out an online application or request an application form from the Congress office on (01) 2349919 or volunteeradmin@iec2012.ie. Please note that the closing date for volunteer applications is Saturday 17th March 2012.

Ballinamore Drama Festival
Have you booked your seat for Thursday 8th March? Corn Mill Theatre Group, Carrigallen, will perform ‘The Seafarer’, a very entertaining play written by Conor McPherson, on Thursday 8th at Ballinamore Drama Festival. Booking is essential – phone Maureen @ 086-1547788.
The Drama Festival runs from Sunday 4th March until Sunday 11th, when eight groups from all around the country will perform their different and entertaining plays. The play on Sunday 4th is unsuitable for a young audience. Season Tickets @ €40 covering the eight nights are now on sale.

Interested in Quitting Smoking: Smoking Cessation Group starting up: All welcome to our introductory meeting on Tuesday Feb 21st at 7 pm in the Meeting Room, Murray’s Vintage Clothing Shop , Main St, Ballinamore”.

Women’s Group
Monthly meeting of Ballinamore Women’s Group takes place on Wednesday 7th of March at 8 pm. A cruise on the Erne and a meal in the Kiltyhevrin hotel has been arranged for Saturday 21st of April. Total cost 35 euro. A deposit of 10euro must be paid to book a place. Membership fees now due. New members most welcome.

First Leitrim Scouts:
Anyone who is or has been in First Leitrim Scouts or has any pictures, old uniforms, stories or information that they would like to donate to us would be greatly appreciated! We are currently in the development of a new scout den and are trying to collect as much things as possible. Anyone with any sort of information could you please e-mail 1stleitrimscoutsection@gmail.com and let us know, also if people would like to receive information on the First Leitrim Scouts please e-mail also. Greatly appreciated!

I.D.H.B.A. Horse Seminar – Leitrim Branch of I.D.H.B.A. is holding an information evening in J’S Hotel, Mohill Saturday 10th March 2011 at 7.30 pm.
4 Guest Speakers will attend. Sponsored by Leitrim Development & Rural Enterprise Skillnet. Free admission & refreshments served. All welcome.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Annual Parade will take place on Saturday 17th March at 3.30pm,leaving from St. Felim’s Square. The Business Association wish to encourage businesses, local groups, local organisations, schools and individuals to take part and enter in to the spirit of the Parade. So get your thinking hats on and hopefully we will have a lovely day. More information later.

ATHLETIC CLUB – Next weekend a number of our members will be competing in the All Ireland Schools Cross Country in Galway on Saturday and the Connacht AAI Indoors in Nenagh on Sunday. This Saturday Dylan Mimna is among an Irish group of young race walkers competing in Douglas, Isle of Man. Well done to Scoil Bhride on winning the senior girls category at the Leitrim Primary Schools Sports Hall Athletics competition last Tuesday Training continues Tuesday and Thursday at 6.00 p.m.

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Bingo
On Tuesday week our club Bingo will commence in the Community Centre. It will be held each Tuesday at 8.30, starting on Tuesday 13 March.
Sean O’Heslin’s Operation Transformation Fundraiser
The ladies class will be on in the club gym on Wednesday at 7.30 and a new men’s class is starting Wednesday 29th at 8.30pm. New participants welcome to come and join this new Lent program. New beginners’ men’s get fit starting Tuesday at 12noon and new beginners’ women’s class Tuesday at 11am in the GAA Gym.
Lotto
Lotto ar an Luan seo chugainn sa Commercial. Pota Óir €2,150. Duaiseanna do dhaoine a bhí i láthair ar an Luan: €40: Seán Heavey, Corlough, Buidéal uisce beatha ó Bobby Joe’s: Padraig Seosamh Mac an Phríora. €40 an duine: Benny Connolly, Drumreilly, Philip Farrelly, Ardrum, Alice Costello, Ardrum, Philip Farrelly, Ardrum, Pauric McGovern, Killaneen
Ballinamore Bridge Club
The results for Thursday the 23rd of February last are as follows,
1. Fr Duffy & Paddy Joyce
2. Kay Dolan & Josie McGovern
3. Maureen Dolphin & Carrie Maroney
4. Sean Creamer & Partner
The next bridge is March 8th at 7.30

Heartsafe
Last weekend there was a church gate collection for the community Heartsafe. We received € 805 and we would like to thank most sincerely all who contributed. Congratulations to the nine new volunteers who trained up on Sat 11th Feb.

The Cultural Quarters in Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim, Ireland is a historical building which has been offered to the community rent free to give people the opportunity to renovate and utilise the spaces available for the benefit of the creative community.

With businesses closing and buildings becoming unoccupied on a monthly basis within the town of Ballinamore, the town is crying out for a focal point where people can come together and offer their services and expertise, showcase their talents or craftsmanship or run creative classes and clubs.
There is no fee to use the building other than a contribution to utility bills and help with the renovation and decoration of the building, which is what this beautiful old building needs.
An initial injection of funding and support is important in order to renovate the building to its potential and to help forward the project to become the focal point of the town.
All money will go towards the renovation of the building and associated works.
We see this as a fantastic opportunity for every member of the community to become involved and help build this community focal point in a self-sufficient way, which we believe will improve the quality of social interaction and well being of the whole community during these difficult times. Also for visitors to come and see the talent and craftsmanship in the area, shop for vintage clothing and antiques and learn about the history of the building and the area of our beautiful and historic town.
Our immensely popular Charity Auction last October raised €290 which was shared between Dogs for the Disabled Ireland & Northwest Hospice Sligo.
Building on that success, our next fundraiser, a performance of Red Herring’s “Murder on the Disoriented Express” will this time benefit Dogs for the Disabled Ireland & The Cultural Quarters.
“The Disorientated Express, probably one of the most luxurious trains in the world, is always fully booked. Even now, in 1938, with war looming menacingly on the horizon, her luxury Pullman coaches are packed with travelling rich and famous making their way from Istanbul to Constantinople. The train has excelled in reliability and punctuality over the years, but today all that is about to change. A famous rocket designer known as Werner Von
Black, has been discovered in his sleeping compartment – dead.
The only question is: who killed him?”
Tickets are €10 a head including nibbles (The play comes with a parental advisory of mild-moderate adult themes – suggestion of infidelity in a relationship etc).
1938 Costume is optional, but there will be prizes on the night for the best costumed Lady and Gent and the whole experience is often enhanced by dressing up and joining in the fun. Doors open at 19.30 for a 20.00 sharp start. Progress around the CQ with the play as we move from the platform, to the second class carriage, through first class, before convening in the buffet car where audience members will be given 5 minutes to question each of the 6 suspects before you decide who committed the murder. The audience member who cracks the case will get a prize (in event of multiple correct entries, the prize winner will be drawn from a hat). Pre-booking is essential for this event. Join us for an evening of 1930s elegance, outrageous accents and great craic in the name of two fantastic causes.
The Annual Mohill St Patricks day Parade
will take place on 17th of march at 4pm.The organising committee would encourage all business, voluntary and sporting to participate in the parade. All floats are free to entry and will be commencing from station road. Lead by the Enniskillen pipe band and good entertainment on the day. Anyone wishing to help out on the day as stewards would be much appreciated. please call 0876254740 /0866000520

Rinn – Shannon & District Angling Club.
Calling on all junior anglers to get signed up for the 2012 fishing season. A fishing awareness day will be held on Lough rowan [Laura Lake] Sunday 20th may. Trout fishing opens on April 1st at 9 o clock. Restocking off Lough Rowan lake will take place on Tuesday 20 march. Dates for junior and senior competitions will be diced it at next meeting. Call 0876254740

Darts
There was a huge crowd in Jackie’s bar last Friday night to see the final of the Francis McGirl’s Cup sponsored by the Aughnasheelin Gen Club. The finalist were McGirl’s and Shortt’s (A) last year’s winners. It was a thrilling match for all the supporters from start to finish, McGirl’s started the match well winning the first four games, it looked like it was going to be easy, and Shortt’s hit back to win the next four to level the match at four games all. In a nail biting deciding leg it was a nephew of the late Francis McGirl, Colm who showed nerves of steel to hit the winning double to win the match for McGirl’s by (5) games to (4). The treasurer of the dart league Terry Shortt presented the prize money, and Joe McGirl on behalf of the Gun Club presented the trophies. A very special thanks to the Gun Club for their sponsorship. Michael the winning captain thanked all the teams who took part in the competition and also thanked Pakey and Bernie Murphy for all the work they do in running the Ballinamore League. Thanks to Catherine and Jackie who hosted the finals, also for refreshments and making sure everyone seen the game on the big screen, thanks to all for supporting the raffle, thanks to Ann for selling tickets, thanks to Pauric McKeon who marked all the games. The winning team were Tony McHugh, Michael McGirl, Paul Maguire, Richard McDermott, Jimmy Walsh, Eamon Bennison, Andy Ralph, Greg McGovern, Colm McGirl, Eugene Maguire, and Keith Boyle. The beaten finalists were: Grant Carter, Christy Reilly, Charlie McGuigan, Richard Venton, Junior McGuigan, Daiti Reilly, Sean O’Neill, John Rudden, Vernon Donohoe, Aiden Rudden, Alan Parker, Declan Timmons, Daniel Hands and Michael Galligan.
The first round of the Ballinamore Cup knock out competition starts next Friday night the 2nd of March. The draw was made and the fixtures are Ossies V Jackie’s. Fenagh V Shortt’s (A). McGirl’s V Freddie’s and Shortt’s (B) V Drumcoura.

Solas Gallery (Ballinamore) Cuig Exhibition
On Friday 2nd March the Solas Gallery in Ballinamore is please to launch the second Cuig Exhibition. This is an exhibition featuring 5 emerging artists, this year they are Dympna Gray, Andrea Fox, Caroline Rock, Ina Duyn and C.J. Greene. Even though these artists have been painting for a while and exhibiting in group shows, as jet they have not the experience of a complete solo exhibition. Even for experience artists this a major occasion, and can be stressful! To introduce these 5 selected artists to the feel of an individual exhibition, each one is given their own space within the gallery where they can exhibit up to 15 or so paintings and get involved in the whole procedure of an exhibition including hanging their pictures.
The styles and media used for this show are varied. Dympna Gray, who lives in Ballinamore, has been painting for a while, but now has more time to devote to her love of painting. She works in oils, mainly landscape, gentle farmyard scenes, soft mountain vistas. Andrea Fox is from Mohill, having been made redundant decided to make her interest into a career and studied with local photographer Eunan Sweeney, Andreas ‘eye for an image, a detail or a scene is spot on, creating a truly inspiring atmosphere’. Her image of Fenagh Abbey in the snow is a good example. Two vibrant and colourful artists come next CJ ‘Christy@ Green is well known in Carrick on Shannon. He has been painting for a while, constantly striving to improve himself. His pictures are bold and created mainly from his memories and imagination, from treescapes to sunsets, each on is a please to look at. Ina Duyn, a Dutch lady who has been living in Castlerea since 2000. Her work is colourful with being gaudy, graphic with an amazing amount of detail. Starting with needlework, she now puts her intricate designs on paper. Based mainly on building, doors, windows and eyes, these images have some collage as well; really the only way to enjoy them is to see them. Caroline Rock lives in Kiltyclogher and is a sculptor, and trained at the Leitrim Sculptor Centre. She works with various woods, allowing the grain and knots to help dictate the form, mainly the human form, particularly the face. Her work is mainly free standing with some wall hung pieces and they will be displayed in the studios on the 2nd floor.
The exhibition will be opened on Friday 2nd March at 7.30pm by artist Sandra Vernon, Sandra has been a long time member of Solas and has a keen interest in encouraging and helping other artists. She hopes that as many people as possible will come t support these artists with their venture into their own exhibition. Cuig ’12 will run until 24th March, opening hours mon-sat 10-6’. For further information please contact Gail or Ben at 071 9644210, info@solasart.ie look at our website www.solasart.ie

Ballinamore Women’s Group
Monthly meeting of Ballinamore Women’s Group takes place on Wedensday 7th of March at 8 pm. A cruise on the Erne and a meal in the Kiltyhevrin hotel has been arranged for Saturday 21st of April. Total cost 35 euro.A deposit of 10euro must be paid to book a place. Membership fees now due. New members most welcome.

Ballinamore Bridge Club
the bridge is cancelled this coming Thursday 1st March. The results for Thursday the 23rd of February last are as follows,
1. Fr Duffy & Paddy Joyce
2. Kay Dolan & Josie McGovern
3. Maureen Dolphin & Carrie Maroney
4. Sean Creamer & Partner. The next bridge is march 8th at 7.30
Leitrim County Development Board Expo
Leitrim CDB is hosting a FREE Training and Further Education Expo and Seminar on Thursday March 1st, Landmark Hotel, Carrick from 10.30a.m. to 4.30p.m. Open to all, but particularly geared to people who are unemployed wishing to see what training/career options and supports are open to them. Speakers will include Gerry Duffy, Deco Enduroman and 32 Marathons; Mairead Fleming, The Apprentice on Sectors with job potential, CV and interview tips; Niamh Brennan, VEC on Courses, Social Welfare implications or returning to education. Keynote Speaker: Mick O’Dwyer. Local agencies and colleges will be in attendance for one-one advice”.

Drama Festival, 4th –11th March
Have you booked your seat for Thursday 8th March? Corn Mill Theatre Group, Carrigallen, will perform ‘The Seafarer’, a very entertaining play written by Conor McPherson, on Thursday 8th at Ballinamore Drama Festival. Booking is essential – phone Maureen @ 086-1547788.
The Ballinamore Drama Festival
runs from Sunday 4th March until Sunday 11th, when eight groups from all around the country will perform their different and entertaining plays. The play on Sunday 4th is unsuitable for a young audience. Season Tickets @ €40 covering the eight nights are now on sale.
Fenagh Visitor Centre
Float(s)
If you would like to enter a Float into the Fenagh Parade on St.Patricks Day then please contact Joyce Smith at 086 3443394 086 3443394 . We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you.
Oil Painting Classes
Oil Painting Classes for Beginners with Noreen Gaffney will commence in Fenagh Visitor Centre on Monday 5th March, to enrol or for further information contact Clare at 071 96 45590 071 96 45590 . Only 10 places Available, so call now!!!
Line Dancing Classes
Line dancing classes are held in Fenagh Visitor Centre this Wednesday evening 29th of February from 8.30pm to 9.30pm with Sarah Mulligan from Mohill. €5 per class. All is welcome to come along and join in on this fun fitness session.

Church News
Daily Mass 8am Mon to Fri: Fri 7pm also; Sat 10a
First Friday Confessions Thursday 7pm
Confirmation 12 noon Sat in Corlough – pray for our young girls and Boys
Meeting in Drumreilly Community Centre Thursday 1st at 8pm, of the parishes in our Pastoral Area with the Bishop. All are invited.
Collectors for next weekend 10th, 11th & 17th 18th March Paddy McGourty, Thomas Kelly, Gerry Mahon & Seddie McGovern.
Eucharistic Congress: Tues 12th June is the day suggested for Kilmore diocese to attend. If you would like to go give your name to Thomas Kelly or Fr Heerey or any member of the pastoral council. If we get enough names we can book a bus. It is €10 to attend. We can have 14 from the parish at the big final mass on Sun 17th June. You can give your name to the same people to book it. The first 14 will be accepted.
The Slan Project has been developed by a working group of the End of Life Care Committee from Sligo Hospital and North West Hospice. The project aim is to provide much needed facilities in the mortuary area for bereaved families and friends. The project has been approved for a Design & Dignity Grant from the Hospice Friendly Hospital Programme, however we need to raise money. We are having our first fundraiser on Sat 3rd March at the three Tesco stores, Sligo, Carrick & Ballinamore, bag packing. Please support! Further information contact Kate 087 6987948
Ms. Jennifer Mc Cabe will facilitate a music seminar in the Pastoral Centre on Saturday March 3rd—11am to 1pm. This seminar is open to everyone but is specifically targeted at parish choirs and cantors as they prepare their material for the Easter season. Jennifer will introduce some new material for the season in question. Priests, in particular, are asked to bring this seminar to the attention of choir leaders and choir members in their parish. The subscription is €5 per person and booking is essential through the Pastoral Centre office (049-4375004) before Friday March 2nd.
Ballinamore Active Age – The next meeting takes place March 1st Thursday at 3pm. Michael Wheelan Historian will give us a talk on the history of the famine. Everybody welcome.
Last Call to Volunteer for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress 2012 will take place in Dublin from 10th to 17th June 2012. This will be the biggest international event in Ireland in 2012 and one that will have a significant impact for Ireland and for the Irish Catholic Church. Volunteers will have an integral role to play in the success of the Congress. Volunteers are now being recruited for a wide range of roles and if you would like to get involved please visit the Congress website www.iec2012.ie/volunteer and fill out an online application or request an application form from the Congress office on (01) 2349919 or volunteeradmin@iec2012.ie. Please note that the closing date for volunteer applications is Saturday 17th March 2012.

Leitrim IFA in conjunction with Carrigallen Mart are holding an open
Livestock Forum on Wednesday, 29th February, in Carrigallen Livestock Mart, at 8.00pm sharp, to discuss all Livestock issues. Speakers from IFA, Live Exporter and Teagasc. All farm families are welcome.

Ballinamore Musical Society – the wonderful Musical ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’ will be staged from Friday Feb 24th to March 3rd in Ballinamore Community Centre

Drama Festival – Fantastic Value – Season Tickets @ €40 each are now on sale for eight nights at the Annual Ballinamore Drama Festival which takes place from Sunday 4th to Sunday 11th March. Phone Maureen @ 086-1547788 086-1547788.

Interested in Quitting Smoking: Smoking Cessation Group starting up: call into Murray’s Vintage Clothing Shop , Main St, Ballinamore”. And find out more details.

RehabCare Ballinamore are setting up a walking group for the duration of lent. The group will meet at the RehabCare centre every Monday and Thursday morning at 11.15am and walk the golf links Road. We will start on Thursday the 23rd of February. All welcome

Dubrovnik Medgugorge Trip
organized by a group of women from Ballinamore, leaving Dublin on the 27th June for one week.4 nights Dubrovnik, 3 nights Medgugorge cost €864. This includes airport tax, half board in Medgugorge and B&B in a four star Hotel in Dubrovnik. More details from Mary at 0874198245 or 0877403777 Deposit €150 before March 3rd

Heartsafe – Last weekend there was a church gate collection for the community Heartsafe. We received € 805 and we would like to thank most sincerely all who contributed. Congratulations to the nine new volunteers who trained up on Sat 11th Feb.

ATHLETIC CLUB – Many of our younger members will be in action representing their schools in the Leitrim Primary Schools Sports Hall Athletics Finals in Ballinamore on Tuesday next. Training continues on Tuesday and Thursday at 6 00 p.m. The next competition will be the Connacht Indoor Championships in Nenagh on Sunday March 11th.

Ballinamore Musical Society held their technical rehearsal for their production of ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’ last night and things got a whole lot more colourful!  Check out the photos on their facebook page.  There’s some mighty good ‘uns!

Don’t forget – Opening night this Friday, 24th of February.

Church News
Confessions Saturday 12noon to 12.30pm.
2. Confirmation Saturday March 3rd at 12noon in Corlough.
3. Collectors next weekend 18th & 19th Anna Gallogly, Declan Comiskey, Joe Murphy & Louis Creamer.
4. Next Sunday 19th is Temperance Sunday. The boys & girls for confirmation will be given the pledge at both masses. As Lent begins on 22nd March it would be appropriate to take the pledge for Lent next Sunday.

Heartsafe
The church gate collection on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th February will be for the community Heartsafe. We have 9 volunteers being trained on Saturday 11th Feb. There will be another date for training in the next few weeks so please give your name to Anne Prior 0879941193 or Marcella McKiernan 0876962928. We thank you for your continued support.

Ballinamore Bridge Club
The results of the bridge from thursday the 9th are as follows;
1. carrie maroney & maureen dolphin
2. Fr Duffy & Paddy Joyce
3. Howard Cusack & Kevin O’Regan
4. Mary McTiernan & Mary Flynn
Bridge Continues on Thursday the 16th in the commerical at 7.30, everybody welcome

Templeport Resource Centre
A Pancake Night will be held in Templeport Resource Centre, Bawnboy on Tuesday 21st February. Pancakes will be served from 9pm till 10pm. Dancing from 10pm with music by Country Sensations. Proceeds in aid of Day Centre. Please support. Any queries please contact Kathleen on 087-7921683 087-7921683 or Ann on 087-2857471 087-2857471

Ballinamore Musical Society
‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’
We are into the final 10 days of rehearsals for the wonderful Musical ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’ due to be staged from Friday Feb 24th to March 3rd in Ballinamore Community Centre. With a cast of almost 40, you can be sure of a feast of delightful choruses, hilarious comedy and foot-tapping choreography. See you there!
Thank You!
A big ‘Thank You’ to all those who have already sent in sponsorship for our Musical – and a gentle reminder to anyone else who would like to have their name included in the sponsorship listing on our programmes – cut off date is Wed 15th Feb,

Ballinamore Active Age
The group enjoyed a very interesting and informative talk last week by Kelly Dukes on the care of our feet. We look forward to having Michelle Fanning again at our next meeting on Tuesday February 16th at 3pm in Trathnona Community centre. All welcome.

Tickets for Eucharistic Congress Mass.Parishioners are been offered a unique opportunity to attend the closing Mass of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress. The Congress will take place in Dublin from Sunday 10th June to Sunday 17th June. While most Congress events will take place in the RDS,the closing Mass is scheduled to be celebrated in Croke Park on 17th June. Our parish has been allocated 14 tickets for this very special occasion. Parishioners interested in being included in draw for tickets are asked fill in form available in church porch at weekend masses or contact your Parish Council Representative before Friday, 17th February, giving their names and phone numbers. Successful applicants will be required to pay €10 for the ticket. We hope to provide transport in conjunction with the other parishes in our Pastoral Area. People who wish to attend the Congress in the RDS during the week must register online, through the Congress web site. Here are some links: To visit the Congress web site: www.iec2012.ie To Register for Attendance: www.iec2012.ie/registration The full programme for each day is now available on the site. Log on to the Congress site Home Page (www.iec2012.ie). Then click on “2012 Congress Details”. Click on “Programme” and select “Full Programme” for the day you wish to view.

Parish Council Meeting.
A meeting of the Parish council will take place on Thursday 16th February in Fr. Heereys House at 8:30pm. All members are requested to attend.

‘Crossroads’ Youth Congress
The Youth Congress will take place on the 26th of February 2011 in St Ciarans College, Ballygawley Co Tyrone. 7 Ulster Dioceses will Work together( Kilmore , Armagh ,Derry , Clogher , Drumore , Down & Connor , Raphoe) to hold this day long event of Prayer,Talks, Workshops including Music Ministry , Drama ,Dance , Net Ministries , Siolta ,Leadership ,Love & Relationships and many many more . The Event will host two age categories Young people in secondary school & 18 plus . The Diocese will organise a bus to leave for Ballygawley on the day . For more information on all youth events please contact Clare Coyle (Diocesan Youth Worker) on 0494375004 or email youthministry@kilmorediocese.ie

BreastCheck are inviting women aged 50-64 from Leitrim for FREE mammograms. Women will receive an appointment by post to attend the BreastCheck Mobile Unit in the car park of The Bush Hotel, Carrick. BreasCheck aims to reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer by finding and treating the disease at an early stage. Further info by calling BreasCheck on Freephone 1800 45 45 55.
Drama Festival – Fantastic Value – Season Tickets @ €40 each are now on sale for eight nighs at the Annual Ballinamore Drama Festival which takes place from Sunday 4th to Sunday 11th March. Phone Maureen @ 086-1547788 086-1547788.

Seán O’Heslin’s – Scéalta na Seachtaine
Lotto Jackpot Winner
The big news this week is that our Lotto Jackpot went on Monday last. The winner was Peter Reynolds, Willowfield Road. Peter wins €5,350. Comhghairdeas Peter. The winning numbers were: 37654210. Pota Óir €2,000.
Dinner Dance – Have you your tickets?
Seachtain amháin eile!! There is just a week to go to our Dinner Dance in The Landmark Hotel, on Friday next. It promises to be a great night with the heroes of 1986 being honoured on the 25th anniversary of their Senior Championship success. Medals will also be presented to our senior footballers who won the Division 2 League and our Minor footballers who won the Minor Championship. Tickets must be booked with Anne Shanley before Wednesday next in order to have numbers ready
Bingo
We will be embarking on a new venture for the club when our Weekly Bingo commences on Tuesday March 13th in the Community Centre. This will be an important development for Bingo goers as it will be an exciting new venue. It will also be an important event for the club and hopefully will be an additional fundraiser.
Operation Transformation
Ballinamore community fitness and weight loss program continues this
week with the following activities. Male weigh in followed by
exercise class Wednesday at 8.30pm. Female weigh in followed by
fitness class Friday at 7pm. Bootcamp for all on Saturday at 9am and
community walk Sunday at 9am.

Ladies Keep Fit Classes
Keep Fit Classes in Ballinamore will continue again for another 6 weeks.
Keep fit classes will commence in Ballinamore Community Centre on Monday
20th at 8pm, Wednesday 22nd at 6.30 and 7.30 in the GAA Gym and Thursday at 7pm and 8pm. Classes will include aerobics, circuit, zumba, bums & tums etc. Costing €30 for 6 classes and the special rates apply the more classes you attend. This keep fit program is very popular in Ballinamore and the ladies really enjoy the Zumba dances and aerobic activities, while toning up, meeting others and improving their fitness. For more information contact
Michelle Fanning on 0879390980

South West College OPEN DAY
Tuesday 21st February 2012, 2pm-8pm. Dungannon, Enniskillen & Omagh Campuses. Come along and speak to staff and students about full-time further and higher education courses, including Training for Success courses. Everyone welcome! Tel 0845 603 1881 or www.swc.ac.uk

S.N. Bhrid Naofa Parent’s Association
Are organising a Used Clothes/Mobile Phone collection on Tuesday 28th February 2012. Bags may be left into the P.E. Room, Senior Girls School on Monday 27th February (7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.) and Tuesday morning 28th Feb. (9.00 a.m. to 10.00 a.m.). We would appreciate your support.

Comedy in Cavan
Cavan based comedy series ‘The Begrudgers’ by Philip Doherty will be online on Monday 13th – 19th of February and we will need your votes. Please log onto www.rte.ie/storyland and show us your support – thanks
Church of Ireland
The Church of Ireland, Church Street, Ballinamore, Sunday service is at 12.15pm every Sunday except on the 4th Sunday which is held in Drumreilly Church, Drumreilly.

Leitrim Development Company is holding a Festival Information Evening for new, existing and emerging festivals in County Leitrim on Thursday 16th February at 7:00pm in the Bush Hotel, Carrick on Shannon. The meeting will outline the types of funding available under the LEADER Programme for festivals in the county, how to apply for LEADER funding and also examine ways in which festival organisers can share information and expertise and develop key skills. All are welcome. For further information or to confirm your attendance, please contact Ashling on 071 9641770 071 9641770

Ballinamore Musical Society are back with a production of  the family favourite musical “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers”.

The rehearsals are in full swing, the sets are being built, lines are being learnt and steps are vigorously practiced.  A buzz is brewing on facebook and other online outlets, in fact there’s a deafening murmur around Ballinamore about this extravaganza that in less than two weeks time will be rattling the boards of the community hall!

In the meantime on Monday 20th February @ 9pm we will be holding our Agm and would appreciate any input you can offer.. The Meeting will be held in Jackies at 9pm Sharp.

So if you have any ideas for our 47th festival or you want to get involved dont hesitate to come along,