Boyle Arts Festival 2014

Details of a very exciting and diverse programme of events will soon be announced when Boyle Arts Festival launch the official programme for their 25th annual Arts Festival, later this month. 

The nationally renowned Festival will kick off on Friday July 25th continuing until Sat. Aug. 2nd and the programme is already bursting at the seams with an eclectic mix of visual arts, music, drama, film, craft workshops, storytelling, readings and much more!

The Boyle Arts Festival office, situated beside Marian’s on Bridge Street, will open from this Saturday, July 5th. Why not call in for details and tickets for all the events.

Some of the names to watch out for include acclaimed singer/songwriter, Kieran Goss, who will kick off this year’s musical programme with an appearance in the main salon of King House on Friday July 25th.

Mícheál O’Súilleabháin makes a welcome return to the Boyle stage after eleven years, with a very special concert the Church of Ireland on Thurs. August 1st. Mícheál will be joined on the night, by the Carolan String Quartet and Saxophonist, Kenneth Edge.

Other musical highlights of this year’s Festival will include a performance by renowned musician John Carty, who will be joined in his ‘Joyful Celebration of Irish Music’ by special guests, Donal Lunny and Harry Bradley. For the first time, BAF will present a number of artists specialising in ambient and electronic music….. Watch out for a very rare chance to see Chequerboard (John Lambert) and Withering Zithering (Ed Devane) who will both bring their unique musical atmospherics to King House on July 31st and 26th respectively.  There’s also another chance to catch Band of Brass in King House on July 30th. Also watch out for performances from Horslips member Johnny Fean who will be joined by Stephen Travers for an intimate gig in the Railway Bar. There are also performances from We Cut Corners, Jazz specialists The Corner Boys, and Singer/Songwriters Donal O’Connor and Frank Simon

In the Classical genre, BAF are delighted to welcome, soprano Sinead Campbell-Wallace who will be accompanied by pianist Mairead Hurley during a performance in the Church of Ireland on July 28th. Acclaimed pianist, Deirbhle Brennan makes an eagerly anticipated appearance in King House on July 29th. The always popular lunchtime and coffee concert programme includes performances by Róisín Ní Galloglaigh, Elena Alekseva and Satoko Inone.

Spoken word events will include an afternoon with Joseph O’Connor on July 29th.  Also, look out for readings by Declan Burke, Tarquin Blake, The Moylurg Writers, while John Clapison and Triona Mullaney-Dignam discuss the King Family. ‘An evening of Poetry & Prose’ takes place on Sun. July 27th and the winner of the recent poetry competition will be announced during this. BAF Curator, Patrick Murphy will also conduct a tour of the visual art exhibition on Friday July 25th.

There’s plenty of drama in this year’s Boyle Arts Festival. The Clock Drama Group will present Brian Friel’s ‘Communication Cord’, on July 26th while Mary McEvoy will present her ‘Fruitcake’ play in Margaret’s Café on July 31st.

There’s always lots for children to do in the BAF Workshops. Watch out for the flyers around town with details of Drama & Theatre Workshops by Drama Works Ireland. There’s a five day Singskool workshop for any 7 to 14 year olds who would like to sing ‘Glee’ style, Art Workshops with Susan Boyle for both 5-7 and 10+ ages, including watercolours, glass and silk painting.

As always, the centrepiece of Boyle Arts Festival is the main visual Exhibition, housed in the beautifully restored King House. Several other exhibitions, including the highly acclaimed Local Artists exhibition, will take place during the Festival and details will be available in the programme.

BAF 2013 will conclude on Sat. Aug. 2nd with a fantastic gig by The Knotty String Band in Daly’s Storehouse.

The Boyle Arts Festival office, situated next door to Marian’s on Bridge Street, will be open every day (excluding Sundays) from Sat. July 5th until Sat. Aug. 2nd 

For more information on Boyle Arts Festival 2013 please go to www.boylearts.com  www.eventbrite.ie or email info@boylearts.com  Telephone 0719663085. Follow us on Facebook.

Boyle Arts Festival is supported by The Arts Council and Fáilte Ireland.

Text by Brendan McGee

Where to stay in the Boyle area

Where to stay in the Boyle area
Bed & Breakfast / Guest House
Abbey House
Your Host:	Christine Mitchell
Telephone:	071 966 2385
Address:	Abbeytown [website...]
ArrowRock Hostel
Your Host:	Craig
Telephone:	071 966 6073
Address:	Ballindoon [website...]
Cesh Corran
Your Host:	Mary Cooney
Telephone:	071 966 2265
Address:	Abbey Terrace [website...]
Doon Shore House
Your Host:	Eamon Glennon
Telephone:	071 966 3535
Address:	Doon, Boyle [website...]
Forest Park House
Your Host:	Eileen Kelly
Telephone:	071 966 2227
Address:	Rathdevine [website...]
Linsfort Bed & Breakfast
Your Host:	Patricia Harrington
Telephone:	071 966 2866
Address:	Main Sreet [website...]
Lough Key House
Your Host:	Frances McDonagh
Telephone:	071 966 2161
Address:	Rathdevine
Rosdarrig
Your Host:	Brenda McCormack
Telephone:	071 966 2040
Address:	Carrick Road [website...]
Rushfield Farm House
Your Host:	Irene Graham
Telephone:	071 966 2276
Address:	Rushfield
Hotels
Cromleach Lodge
Your Host:	Christy Tighe
Telephone:	071 916 5155
Address:	Ballindoon [website...]

Save this Primary School Bus Route / Boyle Faces - Ciara Naughton

Save this Primary School Bus Route

Carmel Sheerin wrote: The Deerpark primary school bus route services Deerpark, Tawnytaskin, Rockingham, Carrick Road, Pollower and surrounding townlands. It was devastating news to learn on the last day of the school year that our bus service was to be terminated without any warnings. The reason given by Bus Eireann (School Transport) on behalf of the Department of Education is that numbers are not sufficient - Department protocol is to have a minimum of 10 children on the service.  There are currently 8 children outside the 3.2km (2 miles) zone availing of the service with others using the service within the zone.
We are asking any parents on the route listed above who are 3.2km (2 miles) from primary school (Scoil na nAingael Naofa and St. Joseph’s B.N.S.) to please consider availing of this service as we urgently need more numbers.   It is such a great service as our children are collected between 9am and 9.10am in the morning and returned home between 3.20pm and 3.30pm.  Junior and Senior Infant classes availing of the bus service are currently eligible to stay back in school until 3.10pm.   If we lose this great service now it will not be restored.
If anyone is interested in availing of this service please call: Bus Eireann (School Transport), Athlone, 0906-473277 and any one of the following parents:- Padraig Casey, 086-8586396, Carmel Sheerin, 086-3647483, Sabrina Kerins, 086-1291908, Lorraine Moore, 087-2333910.

Boyle Faces - Ciara Naughton

© realboyle photos

Meet and greet Ciara Naughton, a new staff member at Enhance Health & Beauty, Bridge House, The Lawn, Boyle. Welcome to Boyle Ciara ...

Tony Conboy's Oblique View / Dip In The Nip / Boyle Shopfront, Person or Landmark / Boyle Horse and Summer Show / Christy Moore and The Grehan sisters in Concert /

Tony Conboy's Oblique View

"We all need heroes or people to look up or inspire us from time to time. There are many different types of heroes some are quiet and some are more obvious."
This week's content includes: Joanne O’Riordan and Heroes / Roscommon Intermediate Ladies V Sligo / Roscommon’s Minors / Boyle Seniors Fine Win / John Murray R.I.P.
Tony also features a photograph, courtesy of John Nicholson, of a group at the opening of the new school in Corrigeenroe in the early 1960s. A number of people are readily identifiable such as ayoung Gerry Enright, John and Pat Nicholson with Corrigeenroe’s Father Henry Tonra
Read in full [here...]

Dip In The Nip

The 6th Sligo Dip in the Nip will take place in on the 29th June. This year, it is one of five Dips taking place around Ireland as part of a national campaign. Check out Dip in the Nip on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. All the proceeds from the Dip in Sligo go to SHOUT (Sligo Hospital Oncology Unit Trust).

Boyle D&S Fitness Studio, Green Street

Mondays: 6.15: 20/20 (Fitball/Kettlebells) 7.15: Cardio Sculpt & Tone.
Wednesdays: 6.15: Bodytone, Legs, Bums & Tums, 7.15: Bootcamp
Thursdays: 5.15: Kettlebells
Fridays: 6.30: Bodytone Abs Blast. Text or call 086 192 9282 to book YOUR spot.

Boyle Shopfront, Person or Landmark

Each day, a different Boyle Shopfront, Person or Landmark
Today, Ronan & Marie O'Conghaile
© realboyle photos

Traditional Music Session

Friday 27th: The ever-popular regular traditional music session will be held again in Dodd's front Bar on Friday night. The session will feature playing and a few songs from local performers.

Boyle Horse and Summer Show

Boyle Horse and Summer Show (BHSS) are looking for your loose change. Planning and preparation for the 2nd BHSS is well underway, details of events and schedules will be available shortly. To help create another magical, memorable day, BHSS are asking you to donate your loose change for the month of July.
Collection boxes will be located in businesses throughout the town. The ‘Donate you loose change’ campaign will run for 4 weeks only. You loose change will make all the difference.

Christy Moore and The Grehan sisters in Concert

© photo www.telegraph.co.uk

Thursday 26th June: Christy Moore and the Grehan Sisters will play a Tribute Concert to the late singer/songwriter John Reilly, starting at 8pm in St. Joseph’s Hall (doors open from 7pm). Tickets on sale at: Boyle Motor Works Mace 071 966 2002, Mulvey’s Gift Shop, Carrick-On-Shannon 071 962 0134, Casey’s Centra, Roscommon 090 662 5468.

Boyle Musical Society Concert

© realboyle photos

Our accomplished, award-winning chorus and soloists will once again come together for a truly magical and memorable musical experience when they present this very special concert in St. Joseph's Church, Boyle on Friday 27th June at 8.30pm.
With a great reputation and a diverse repertoire, a spectacular night's entertainment is guaranteed. Expect big chorus numbers, spellbinding solo & duet performances and a few surprises, including songs from Blood Brothers, Oliver, Les Miserables, We Will Rock You and many more.

Kilronan Ladies Luncheon / Crystal Clear Coolers / Boyle Celtic Summer Soccer School

Kilronan Castle Ladies Lunch & Fashion Show

Grainne Caldbeck (Enhance Beauty), Karen Koster, (TV3 "Expose") and Patricia Corrigan (Landmark Hotel)
© realboyle photos. View photos [here...]

Sunday 23rd June: Kilronan Castle was the venue for a splendid Ladies Luncheon and Fashion Show Fundraiser in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland. 320 ladies attended. "Fantastic Value for Money" was a sentiment I heard towards the end of the evening. Karen Koster of TV3's popular "Expose" programme was MC for the afternoon's event on a beautiful, sunny summer's day. "Only the best" might well be a catch phrase for Kilronan Castle's venue, location, friendly staff and service.
Following lunch, Karen Koster presented many valuable draw prizes to lucky winners. Ladies then had an opportunity to have skin analysis, makeups, buy recommended products and stand in with Karen for photographs.
The Fashion Show featured professional models showing a range of fashionable outfits and hats available from leading outlets in the Boyle/Carrick region, starting with a selection from Marians Fashions, Boyle.
As proceedings came to a close, it was hard to believe that we had spent almost five hours in this beautiful hotel ... congratulations to all involved. View photos [here...]
 

Crystal Clear Coolers

 

Boyle Celtic Summer Soccer School

 

Boyle GAA Update / Boyle Golf Club update / Thank you from Join Our Boys / Corpus Christi Procession / Grad Mass / Read between the lines / Bewley's Open Water Swim

Boyle GAA Update

The following were thye €20 winners at the most recent Club Lotto draw which was held in Kate Lavin’s - Pat and Angela Leonard, James and Eilish Goldrick, Al and Mary Cunningham, Tara Brady, Gillian Cleary and Darren O’Connor. The house prize was won by Tom Browne. The jackpot wasn’t won and it will stand at €6,500 at next Saturday night’s draw which will be held in Patrick’s Well with Team E in charge.
It was a mixed week for the McGovern Directional Drilling Seniors. GAA Blog [here...]

Boyle Golf Club update

Junior Members from Boyle, Ballaghadereen & Castlerea who took part in the
Junior Foreclub Alliance. pic courtesy of MIchael Gilmartin

Sunday's Roscommon Herald 18 Hole competition was won by Shane O’Dowd with a great score of 46pts, 2nd Michael Bannon 41pts, Gross Adrian King, 3rd Cillian Doyle 41pts. The front nine was won by John McGuinn and the back nine was won by Francie Flanagan. At the presentation the Captain Padraig O’Connell thanked The Roscommon Herald for sponsoring the prizes and thanked the members for a great turnout. He also thanked Michael Rush for organising the competition. The Winner Shane O’Dowd said he was delighted to win and thanked the Herald for their sponsorship. He also complimented the ground staff for the great condition of the course adding that the greens were “awesome”. Thursdays Mens Competition was won by Michael Rush 29pts, 2nd Pat Conroy 27pts, 3rd Jim Mooney 27pts. Fridays Scramble was won by Terry Canning, Tish Perry & Tom Kearney, 2nd Michael Reid, Jim Suffin & Peter Leydon, 3rd Brendan Gaffney, Michael Rush & Cillian Doyle.
Read the full update [here...]

Thank you from Join Our Boys Concert held 7th June

Anne Walshe wrote: "Just want to thank most sincerely all who helped out in so many ways with the recent concert in aid of Join our Boys Trust which was held in St Joseph's Hall Boyle, the committee, stewards, back stage crew, lighting, sound, hall committee, sponsors of the tickets and prizes for the raffle, MC for the night, the wonderful artists who took part and finally to everyone who supported the concert on the night. It was a great success. The amount collected was €3,143.88."  

Corpus Christi Procession

View a larger version [here...] © realboyle photos.

This year's Corpus Christi Procession took place today following 11.30am mass, assembling on St. Joseph's church grounds and proceeding via Abbeytown to the Forest View Green area. More [photo...] and [photo...]

Grad Mass

During 7.30 mass, Fr. Donal Morris scotched rumours regarding the Graduation Mass cancellation by management at Abbey Community College. Fr. Donal stated clearly that Abbey College cancelled the mass and that "Boyle clergy DID NOT refuse permission to have the mass celebration in Boyle. Student(s) arranged for the mass to be held elsewhere."

Read between the lines ...

Frank Feighan TD spoke eloquently at the Thank You Social for Maura Hopkins. In a wide ranging address he reminded us that he is the only Fine Gael Roscommon TD in Government, that Ireland is on the way out of its financial mess and that to get to this sate, tough, unpopular decisions had to be made by himself and by government.
He suggested that we may have an opportunity to vote for two Fine Gael candidates in the forthcoming by-election following Ming Flanagan's 'rise' to Europe. The two candidates may be himself Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins.
Leaving party politics aside, just think about it ... having two TD's from this area in government would benefit all of us!

Bewley's Open Water Swim

Trisha Brennan and Shane O’Doherty © realboyle photos

The 1.5km course included swimming around Castle Island while the 750m swimmers swam to buoys at the island and back. Shane O’Doherty from Sligo won the 750m event in a time of 10.10 while his partner Trisha Brennan won the 1.5km event in 19.30.
Choppy waters greeted the open water swimmers, but the 19C water temperature was pleasant for these accomplished swimmers. Trisha Brennan finished the 1.5km course, way and away ahead of the others. When I jokingly asked her mother if she had given birth to a fish (or mermaid), she replied "No, and she wasn't born on a Friday either"
View photos [here...]

Maura Hopkins Thank You Social / King House / Maire Paul's Blog / Football success for St. Joseph's BNS

Maura Hopkins Thank You Social

Ernie Keenan, Maura Hopkins, Frank Feighan © realboyle photos

Newly elected Fine Gael County Councillor was guest of honour at a well-attended 'thank you' social with refreshments in Dodd's Lounge on Friday 19th June
View photos [here...]

King House

King House pictured from the Pleasure Grounds © realboyle photos

Maire Paul's Blog

© realboyle photos

Maire Paul is a literate, credible friend and Boyle lady with family connections here 'as long as your arm'. She was our final Mayor of Boyle, a woman of capability and ideas and a great writer. Maire has agreed to write some articles for realboyle.
Following today's first, Maire Paul's articles will be available on the new Blog I set up for her [here...]

Football success for St. Joseph's BNS

St. Joseph’s Boys National School, won the Top Schools 7-a-side soccer championship 2014. Well done to the boys and Sean Melia. Photo courtesy of Michael King.

Boyle Musical Society Summer Concert / Swimming Lessons for children 7 to 13 / Dirty Cars Wanted

Boyle Musical Society Summer Concert

Swimming Lessons for children 7 to 13

The Irish Water Safety Association will provide swimming lessons for children aged 7 to 13 years in Roscommon swimming pool from Monday 30th June to Friday 4th July and Monday 7th/Tuesday 8th July. Tickets are priced at €50 per child, transport included.
Tickets will be available from Maureen McQuaid, Deerpark, Boyle from 5pm until 7pm on Wednesday 25th June. All information regarding departure times and drop-off point will be available when purchasing tickets. Maureen McQuaid 086 388 9907 / 071 966 3057  

Dirty Cars Wanted - new business in Boyle

With a title 'Dirty Cars Wanted', you will guess immediately that Dirty Cars will enter, and Clean Cars will exit following treatment. Here we welcome Gerard Norton and his new business to Boyle. Gerard and 'Dirty Cars Wanted' is located on the concrete apron at Stewarts Oil on Mill Road, Boyle. He ran my car through his cleaning process which for the first time in my long, long experience at car washes included a full scrub and clean of the car's wheel rims.
Gerard has a range of services available onsite now including under-car wash in preparation for CCT testing and right through to full Car Valeting. While your car is being prepared for a state of 'gleaming', soon Gerard will be delighted to give you a voucher for free tea/coffee at Stewarts Oil Filling Station on the same site.
Call in during 'normal' working hours or book Gerard's services at 087 062 4595

Update June 19th

Tony Conboy's Oblique View

Eoin Kennedy, 7 times All-Ireland Singles Handball champion.
pic courtesy Tony Conboy

"Next Thursday night Christy Moore comes to Boyle so I'll probably take a break from Brazil. Then with this beautiful weather there are turf possibilities."
This week Tony covers a range of topics: Boyle GAA's Fine Week-End / 'McGovern Directional Drilling' Boyle Seniors Fine Display / Both Boyle National Schools Contest Finals / The World Cup / and more. Read Tony's Oblique (neither perpendicular nor parallel ) View [here...]

D&S Fitness, Green Street, Boyle

Thursdays at 5.15 : Kettlebells & Friday at 6.30 Bodytone Abs Blast. Facebook pm or Text Siofra 086 192 9282 to book a spot. Oh, and First class is FREE!
If you don't like the Gym or Fitness classes! D&S Fitness has the solution for you. Now available in the Carrick D&S Fitness Studio ...Mini personal training sessions starting from €10. A fitness program is put in place for you and you also get a food plan. These sessions are available around classes in the studio, Contact Dave 085 205 3109 to book your slot...

Kelly's Londis One Day Sale

Abbey Haven Care Centre / Eleanor Shanley

Eleanor as she sang in Abbey Haven Care Centre Nursing Home

Yesterday's Music event for Nursing Home Ireland Event week. Eleanor Shanley kindly came to sing songs accompanied by guitarist John McCartin. Sunshine or none, I had to be in Abbeyhaven for this event ... photos for y'all [here...]

Doon Shore

© realboyle.com

Doon Shore, Lough Key, has been a favourite spot for generations of Boyle residents and many others. I took this photo on Wednesday 18th June before visitors came to swim and sunbathe. [more from this set ...]

Ireland's Temperature Records

Highest air temperature: 33.3°C at Kilkenny Castle on 26th June 1887.
Highest air temperature recorded during the 20th Century was 32.5°C at Boora, Co. Offaly on 29th June 1976.
Lowest air temperature: -19.1°C at Markree Castle, Co. Sligo on 16th January 1881.
Lowest air temperature recorded 20th century air temperature was -18.8°C at Lullymore, Co. Kildare on 2nd January 1979.
Lowest grass minimum temperature:-19.6°C at Glasnevin, Dublin on 12th January 1982.

Next year's Boyle Pantomime

Is anyone interested in forming a small group to produce a pantomime in Boyle in February 2015? Anyone willing to help in any way please contact Noreen on 087 657 3046 by July 31st 2014

Boyle Abbey

Patricia (Patti) Purcell R.I.P.

The death has occurred of Patricia Purcell (Patti) St. Patrick Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. June 16th. Reposing at Mahon’s funeral Home, Boyle this evening (Tues) from five o’clock until half past seven with removal to St. Joseph’s church, Boyle, to arrive at eight o’clock. Funeral Mass tomorrow morning (Wed) at eleven o’clock with burial afterwards in Assylinn cemetery. House private please.
Patty will be sadly missed and remembered with affection by her family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. May she Rest In Peace.

Boyle Credit Union - Patti Purcell R.I.P.

Patti Purcell was a founding member of Boyle Credit Union. The Boyle Credit Union Office on Green Street will close tomorrow the 18th June from 11am to 12.30pm as a mark of respect to Patti. May She Rest In Peace.

Cootehall Community Development group

Friday 20th June: Everyone invited to come along to the official opening of the Cootehall Barracks Garden Park and playgroundat 4.30pm. Cllr John Cummins will officially open the park. This is surely a great day for Cootehall residents and visitors alike. Cootehall Community Development group who instigated this project over 6 years ago and worked hard to get to this day, invite everyone to come along and enjoy . Later that night a fundraising draw in aid of Cootehall Tidy towns takes place in The Watersplash pub. Music by Ciaran Reynolds- door raffle and food. Come Along and enjoy! Raffle includes prizes for Garth Brooks tickets, Ryanair Tickets and more

Bonfire Dance next Saturday

Saturday 21st: Tawnytaskin Community Centre, great Bonfire Dance. Music by The Psychonics. Doors open 9pm. Tickets €10. Supporting entertainment. Hot Dog stand on site. A great night of entertainment guaranteed. Admission only by ticket! Tickets available from any committee member or please contact: Ann 086 813 0005 or Mary 085 161 8420

Kelly's Londis Sale

Tribute Concert

Thursday 26th June: Christy Moore and the Grehan Sisters will play a Tribute Concert to the late great singer John Reilly in St. Joseph’s Hall in Boyle (doors opening at 7pm). Tickets are for sale at the following locations: McDonagh’s Mace Shop, Boyle 071 966 2002, Mulvey’s Gift Shop, Carrick-on-Shannon 071 962 0134, Casey’s Centra Shop, Roscommon 090 662 5468.

Boyle Musical Society

Friday 27th June: Our accomplished, award-winning chorus and soloists will once again come together for a truly magical and memorable musical experience when they present this very special concert in St. Joseph's church, Boyle at 8.30pm.

Abbey Community College, Young Entrepreneur Competition

Abbey Community College

The following Post Leaving Certificate Courses courses will be available at Abbey Community College for the academic year 2014/2015 from September 2014.
FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Business Studies FETAC, Level 5 Certificate in Information Processing FETAC, Level 5 Certificate in Sport and Recreation Studies
Courses are full time for 1 year and are suitable for students who have recently completed second level education or for mature students wishing to return to the work force or progress to third level. Applications forms and enquires to 071 966 4646

Young Entrepreneur Competition

If you, or a relative of yours are aged 18 – 30 and have a great innovative business idea, you should consider entering the nationwide competition to find Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur. Organised through the Local Enterprise Offices (previously County Enterprise Boards), anybody with a great new business concept can enter, even if they are living overseas. Business ideas should include some element of intellectual property, such as design, software, equipment, art, music, inventions, etc. Enter at www.ibye.ie or call 086-8318748 for details. The deadline for entries is June 30th.

Brogans Pharmacy, Church of Ireland - new roof, Cigarette branding, Ireland's Toughest Muckers, Feelystone, Boles of Boyle, Of Mice and Men, Boyle Library, Summer Activities, Morning Radio, Matz Barbers,Clarke's Bar & Restaurant, Curlew Warrior 10k Run, Walk or Hike, Horsemanship Course

Brogans Pharmacy

Church of Ireland - new roof

At the Parish Church of The Church of Ireland, Boyle, work has started on laying a new roof. The Church building at the top of Green Street was established in the second half of the 18th Centenary and houses many great funerary and military memorials, encanstic tiles and three magnificent stained glass windows. One window in the North Wall of the Nave depicts the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Realboyle photos will follow here shortly

Cigarette branding

The Government has signed on proposed new laws to introduce plain packaging on cigarette packets and tobacco products. If enacted – the new Public Health Bill will make Ireland the first country in the EU to ban the companies from using logos

Ireland's Toughest Muckers

Are you tired of that straight forward boring run?
Are you training in the gym without a challenge to test all your work?
Do you want to challenge yourself more physically, mentally and emotionally?
Would you like to test your upper body strength as well as your legs for a change?
"At Ireland's Toughest Muckers we believe you need to push your body to the limits and this is the ultimate challenge for you to test just how tough you are! The event will take place place on 19th July 2014 in Forest Park Boyle, Co Roscommon. First wave are off at 12.00 noon and there will be 10 – 15 mins given between each wave of competitors."
Read more [here...]

Dog Missing

Today's thunder storms have scared pet dogs. Following the disappearance, and later reappearance of Katie Lennon's "Holly", Brendan Scanlon's "Mundy", a brown and white Jack Russell is now missing from Plunkett Avenue. If you see Mundy, pictured above, please call Brendan on 071 966 3225
Brendan wrote: "Thanks for posting the message. Shortly after it was uploaded, a lady called and I am happy to report that Mundy has been returned home. Realboyle truly is a remarkable community asset. Much appreciated."

Feelystone, Boyle, Roscommon and Longford

Feelystone Ltd are delighted to have retail outlets now in Boyle, Roscommon and Longford. The photo above shows the frontage of their very fine premises close to Casey's Garage in Roscommon. Later this week I plan taking photos and publishing them for you ... Roscommon and Longford interiors showing the premium Monumental and Fitted Kitchens stocked at Feelystone.

Boles of Boyle

Of Mice and Men

Here’s a partial list of A-listers who have seen "Of Mice and Men":
Jason Segel, Lady Gaga, Jessica Lange, Judd Apatow, Christie Brinkley, Nicolas Cage, Francis Ford Coppola, Whoopi Goldberg, Zooey Deschanel, Christian Slater, Jenny McCarthy, Michael Cera, Olivia Wilde, Hank Azaria, Richard Kind, Jonah Hill, Zac Efron, Seth Rogen, Olympia Dukakis, Kristen Wiig, Seth Meyers, Emma Roberts, Robert Duvall, Jason Biggs, Conan O’Brien, Jamie Lee Curtis, Christopher Guest, Ed Harris, John Leguizamo, Robin Wright, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Mariska Hargitay, Madonna, Julia Stiles, Julianne Moore, Tony Orlando

Boyle Library, Summer Activities

Roscommon County Council Library Services, Summer Activities in Boyle Library
Wednesday 2nd July: 11am-12pm – Boyle Library - Dolores Keaveney (4-6 year olds)
Thursday 3rd July: 2.30pm-3.30pm – Boyle Library - Gerry Boland (6-10 year olds)
Wednesday 9th July: 11am-12pm – Boyle Library - Chris Thompson (5-8 year olds)

Morning Radio

Do you listen to radio in the morning? If you do, you will do no better than Joe Finnegan on Shannonside FM and/or the Ray D'arcy Show on Today FM ... check 'em out

Matz Barbers, Green Street - New For You

At Matz, you can now avail of a new service - Back & Chest Waxing - totally private and confidential. Call Matt for an appointment on 086 606 4041.
At Matz, all customers are invited to enjoy complimentary coffee, hot chocolate or tea ...

Brogan's Pharmacy, Shop Street

20% discount on all our Mens Giftsets for next Sunday's Fathers Day June 15th

"Of Mice and Men" turns in a profit

The Broadway revival of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men may have gone home empty-handed from last night's Tony Awards, but the production headlined by James Franco and Chris O'Dowd has turned a profit, recouping its $3.8 million initial investment and grossing close to $10 million to date in just three months on the boards. [more...]

Clarke's Bar & Restaurant

Curlew Warrior 10k Run, Walk or Hike

Sunday 15th June: Start, 11am on Green Street / Registration in Creighton’s Bar, Bridge Street on the morning of the event / Entry €10 with all proceeds to Roscommon Branch MS Ireland. Spot prizes and light refreshments. Register on www.runireland.ie  or call for further information - Tony Byrne 086 232 4020 / Anne Marie Hayden 086 036 4907.

Horsemanship Course

Fetac Level 5 accreditation in conjunction with Boyle VTOS Centre and Lough Gara Riding Stables. Please call 071 966 3246 if interested a career with Horses.

Boyle D&S Fitness Studio / Brogan's Pharmacy / Troy sponsorship for Boyle Celtic

Boyle D&S Fitness Studio

New 5-week Fitball/Kettlebell class starting this Wednesday 11th at 8.15pm. Only 12 spaces! Facebook pm or txt 086 192 9282 to book your spot.

Brogan's Pharmacy

20% discount on all our Mens Giftsets for next Sunday's Fathers Day June 15th

Troy sponsorship for Boyle Celtic

Ivan Cochirleanu of Troy Deli is pictured presenting sponsorship of new training tops to Boyle Celtic players, 2013-2014 at Celtic Grounds, Sunday 8th June. Celtic are 2014 Super League Champions. Here with Ivan are Conor McGowan, Sean Purcell, Owen O'Donohoe & Lochlainn Conboy. Boyle Celtic are very grateful for €500 sponsorship from Troy Food, Boyle.

Bike Week in Boyle

Introduction to Mountain Biking      

This is a skills workshop to introduce both children and adults to trailcycling/mountain biking.
Date: Saturday 14th June
Where: Lough Key Forest and Activity Park
Time:  10.00am - 1.00pm
Contact: 090 663 0853 / 090 663 7359
Cost: Free (booking essential)

Family Cycle to the Park

Come along with the family and enjoy an easy going cycle from Boyle to Lough Key Forest Park. Refreshments provided.
Date: Sunday 15th June
Where: Meeting in St.Joseph’s Church Car Park (Resource Centre)
Time: 3pm
Contact: 090 663 0853 / 090 663 7359
Cost: Free (booking essential)

Level 1 Bike Maintenance Course

Get on top of your bike maintenance this summer with our level 1 course which focuses on road side repair and basic maintenance.  
Date: Tuesday 17th June
Where: St. Joseph's Resource Centre, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
Time: 7-10pm
Cost: €25 (special bike week offer)
Contact: 086 858 6225 or email info@trailcycling.ie  (booking essential)

Gearing Up Off-Road Course

Enjoy a day of trailcycling/mountain biking tuition with Cycling Irelands excellent Gearing Up - Off-Road Course.
Date: Saturday 21st June
Where: Lough Key Forest and Activity Park
Time: 9am-5pm
Cost: €40 (special bike week offer) includes course manual and lunch in the Lakeside Cafe. (Quality MTBs and helmets at a special rate of €10 per course should you require)      
Contact: 086 858 6225 or email info@trailcycling.ie  (booking essential)

Roscommon Community Games / Boyle Musical Society - special concert

Roscommon Community Games

Boyle's Community Games Gold Winners - photo courtesy of Jackie Valentine

Great success for Boyle in County Community Games Saturday's in Ballyleague ... 4 golds, silver and 2 bronze. U8 60m gold Conan Cregg, u10 hurdles gold Caoimhe Cregg, u10 hurdles bronze Daniel Dasey, u10 mixed relay Niall O'Donnell, Clodagh Sheerin, Caoimhe Cregg and Daniel Casey silver, u14 hurldes Daire Cregg bronze, u14 100m Ruth Cox gold and u16 100m Aoife Valentine gold. Well done to all 24 children who competed.

Boyle Musical Society - special concert

"Our accomplished, award-winning chorus and soloists will once again come together for a truly magical and memorable musical experience when they present this very special concert in St. Joseph's church, Boyle on Friday 27th June 2014 at 8.30pm.
With a great reputation and a diverse repertoire, a spectacular night's entertainment is guaranteed. Expect big chorus numbers, spellbinding solo & duet performances and a few surprises, including songs from Blood Brothers, Oliver, Les Miserables, We Will Rock You and many more."

Brogan's Pharmacy / Boyle Golf Club update / Roscommon Community Games

Brogan's Pharmacy

20% discount on all our Mens Giftsets for next Sunday's Fathers Day June 15th

Boyle Golf Club update

Sunday’s 18 Hole Stableford was won by Michael Gilmartin with 44pts, 2nd Owen Garvin, Gross Lorcan Egan, 3rd John McGuinn. Thursday Mens Competition was won by Michael Rush 27pts, 2nd Pat Brogan 26pts, 3rd Michael Simon 25pts. Friday's Scramble was won by Lorcan Egan, Teresa Ward & Michael Gilmartin, 2nd Jonathan Egan, Michelle Quinn & Michael Reid, 3rd, John McGuinn, Susan Gaffney & Michael Rush. (a Michael in all the winning teams). The results of the Fore Club Alliance from the June Weekend were 1st Ross Andrew 41pts, Gerry Carty 39pts, Gary Carty 39pts. Ladies winner 1st Joey Mullaney, 2nd Regina McLoughlin, 3rd Mary O’Hara.
Read the full update [here...]

Roscommon Community Games

Boyle's Community Games Gold Winners - photo courtesy of Jackie Valentine

Great success for Boyle in County Community Games Saturday's in Ballyleague ... 4 golds, silver and 2 bronze. U8 60m gold Conan Cregg, u10 hurdles gold Caoimhe Cregg, u10 hurdles bronze Daniel Dasey, u10 mixed relay Niall O'Donnell, Clodagh Sheerin, Caoimhe Cregg and Daniel Casey silver, u14 hurldes Daire Cregg bronze, u14 100m Ruth Cox gold and u16 100m Aoife Valentine gold. Well done to all 24 children who competed

Charlie McGettigan / Shannonside FM / Sharon Shannon / Roscommon SPCA Fun Day, L.Key Forest Park / Church of Ireland / John Cummins / Cesh Corran

Charlie McGettigan / Shannonside FM

Sparkling wit, lively conversation, diary news items and great musical guests were menu items when Charlie McGettigan broadcast his Saturday Connection Shannonside FM programme, live 10am-12pm, from Lough Key Forest Park on Saturday 8th.
View Realboyle photos [here...]

Sharon Shannon, Roscommon SPCA Dog Competition

In glorious sunshine, Irish and International Music Star, Sharon Shannon judged the dog competitions at the Roscommon SPCA Fun Day in Lough Key Forest park on Saturday 8th June. Sharon is an accredited judge and is proud owner of several dogs.
View Realboyle photos [here...]

Roscommon SPCA Fun Day, L.Key Forest park

Congratulations and Well done to all involved in organising a great Fun Day Saturday 8th June in beautiful Lough Key Forest Park. A threatening very black rain-loaded, thunder cloud passed by in the near distance, leaving the park in glorious sunshine for the morning and afternoon's events and side attractions.
View Realboyle photos [here...]

Church of Ireland - history presentation

Friday 6th June: Frank Tivnan's lecture outlined a history of Boyle Church of Ireland in the church on Green Street. Admission optional. This event was be a fundraiser, and all proceeds will go towards the roof restoration fund. There was an open invitation for everyone to attend and enjoy what was indeed a most informative presentation on one of Boyle's oldest buildings.

John Cummins, Roscommon Co Chairman

Boyle Fianna Fail Councillor John Cummins has been elected as new Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. John has served on the council for 15 years and said he was honoured to be elected and that tackling the water problems in Roscommon and as well as tackling rates will be his priority in the year ahead.

An Craoibhín, closed for a short while

Our popular and highly regarded 'An Craoibhín, Bar & Restaurant' on Elphin Street will close for alterations for a short while ... from after closing time Saturday 7th and open again on Friday 13th ("hopefully", Gerry told me) He went on to say "Sean, please offer our apologies to customers for any inconvenience"

Cesh Corran B&B

Looking good in Boyle

Looking great from across Boyle River today, the building referred to as Mick O'Dowd's in the heart of Boyle.

Not so funny ...

A man in gorilla suit was shot with a tranquilliser dart at Tenerife zoo and is recovering in hospital. Police on the Spanish island received a call from a panicked member of the public, who said that a gorilla had escaped from its pen in Loro Park zoo, and was seen running around the theme park. A vet on spotting the creature fired a tranquilliser dart at its leg with enough sedative to fell a 200kg beast. But to his horror, the vet - who had only been in the job for two months - realised that the creature was in fact an employee of the zoo, dressed in a gorilla.
The vet may have learned now that 'you can't put an old head on young shoulders' ... and that we might all take time to 'measure twice, and cut once'.

Tony Conboy's Oblique View

Boyle's own John Joe Nerney is pictured on the left in this fine action shot
taken in Croke Park. Thank you to Tony Conboy for sharing the photo

About the Film 'Jimmy's Hall', Tony wrote: "I will not attempt a critique of the film as it would take a good deal more study and consideration though I have been aware of Jim Gralton for quite a while having read Des Guckian's book on Gralton when first published. I also knew Gralton's close relative Maggie Gralton from quiz encounters. Other local connections are the Ryan's of Ballyfarnon Sean and Boyle Celtic's Joe."Read this week's full update [here...]
 

Canon Gerry Hanly's 40 years Friday 13th June: A Mass of thanksgiving and celebration is planned for Canon Gerry Hanly who will celebrate 40 years in the priesthood. All parishioners are invited by St. Joseph’s Parish Council to join Canon Gerry in this Mass of Thanksgiving and celebration at 7.30pm on the evening. You are also invited to St. Joseph’s Hall following Mass for refreshments.

Boyle Arts Festival - Poetry Competition 2014.

Following on from last year's highly successful Poetry competition, we are delighted to announce that we are running it again this year. There is a prize of €500 for the winner and four €50 prizes for highly commended poems. The closing date is Friday June 20th and shortlisted poems will be notified ahead of the awards, which will be held on Sunday 27th July 2014 in King House, Boyle at 7:30pm.
Entry: €5 per poem An Entry form must accompany the poems and this can acquired by going to www.boylearts.com clicking on the 'Festival' tab and selecting 'Poetry Competition' in the drop down menu. Alternatively you can email info@boylearts.com

Urgent Virus Alert

Our friends at Trojan.ie issued an Urgent Virus Alert, and advise us to be vigilant:
1. Do Not open suspicious / unexpected email attachments including office files.
2. Do Not click on links to websites from unknown email senders. (eg Banks do not email clients)
3. Do Not download suspicious files from websites etc.
4. Delete these files or emails immediately.
What to do next:
1. Forward this email to all your employees.
2. Check you have a back up solution and it is working. We recommend off-site storage and / or cloud backup of both personal and business files with retention of at least 30 days.
3. Ensure your Antivirus and Antispam solutions are up to date.

Celebration for Fr. Brian Conlon

Realboyle photo: Fr. Brian Conlon

On Sunday 29th of June, Ardcarne Parish will hold a day of celebration to mark Fr. Brian Conlon's 25th Anniversary of ordination and also 10 years of being Priest in Charge of Ardcarne Parish. Special mass in Cootehall at 11.30am con-celebrated with Bishop Jones featuring Cootehall & Parish Choir, afterwards Fr. Brian will plant a tree in the Church grounds.
He will then call to Cootehall NS for 'Coffee and Cake' and a chance to chat and mingle.
The climax of the celebration will be a night out in The Bush Hotel, Carrick. Doors open at 7pm, food served at 8pm and entertainment at 9pm with music and dancing to The Brian Mc Dermott Band and D.J. Willie G. will make this a night to remember! The will be a donation box at the door to cover costs and a fabulous door-prize on offer. Also thank you to our sponsors for some wonderful spot prizes which will be raffled on the night - again to help cover costs. If you have have any queries or wish to help or donate a spot prize then you can email ardcarnesj@yahoo.ie

To whom It May Concern

Sometimes we write in riddles without explaining exactly what we mean and without naming names. I did this myself a few days ago when referring to the new roadsigns and visitor guide to Boyle.
I did not know who was responsible for the designs etc and made reference to unnamed grant assisted bodies in the area. I realise now that after speaking to some people, I caused hurt where I did not intend there should be any.
I agree that in our own ways we are all interested in letting the world know that Boyle is very special place to visit and a great place in which to live and work.