Although no longer living in Ballybay local lad David Moen is always on the lookout for items relating to home. David recently came across a letter in a local paper posing the question, “Was this the GAA, first MBE to win a SFC medal”. The letter referred to the Ballybay team of 1969 who defeated Castleblayney in the county final in front of a record crowd in Emmet Park, Carrickmacross. Playing corner forward for the Pearse Brothers that day was Tony Campbell. A few years later the Derry native headed off to South Africa where he spent his time teaching in the poorer areas of the country. He made such an impression that the British Government awarded him an MBE (Members of the British Empire). An MBE is given for an outstanding achievement or service to the community which will have had a long-term, significant impact and stand out as an example to others. If anyone has any memories of Tony and can confirm if he was the first SFC medal winner to receive an MBE can you email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The volunteering trip which was to be undertaken by local girls Laura McPhillips (Latton) and Ciara Quinn (Drumhowan), has been postponed due to the current circumstances. The girls would like to thank everyone who has donated to the trip. Their current plan is to reschedule the trip for next year and the proceeds gathered so far will go towards this. The local duo would like to most sincerely thank all who have supported them through donations on sponsorship cards in local businesses and through their GoFundMe page online.

In line with Government rules Public worship can re-commence in all churches as and from Monday 29th June. The local parish are currently planning for this as it is not possible for a full return, instead the parish plans to begin with small and tentative steps. In order to adhere to the 2metre social distancing rule means that the congregation will only be about 10% of the churches capacity. For this reason it would not be possible to meet the parish needs with the usual 4 weekend masses. As a result of this the parish is proposing that the Sunday mass gets spread across the entire week. Instead of being confined to the 4 weekend masses, parishioners will have 9 masses to choose from. The following 9 masses are being proposed and attendance at anyone of the weekday masses will be the equivalent of going to mass on a Sunday – as the Sunday obligation has been set aside owing to the pandemic.
1.Monday 7-30pm St. Patrick’s
2.Tuesday 9-30am St. Patrick’s
3.Wednesday 7-30pm St. Patrick’s
4.Thursday 9-30am St. Patrick’s
5.Friday 7-30pm St. Patrick’s
6.Saturday Vigil 6-30pm
7.Sunday Tullycorbet 9-30am
8.Sunday Ballintra 11am
9.Sunday St. Patrick’s 12-15pm
To make this work the times of some of the weekday masses have been adjusted. This initially is a trial.
Parishioners are asked to make an effort to spread their mass attendance across the seven days with as many as possible opting to go to one of the weekday evening masses – this will help alleviate the pressure on the weekend masses. It is also important to remind people who are vulnerable or unwell, and especially those with any symptoms that might suggest Covid-19 infection are asked to stay at home and if possible participate via webcam, social media, television of radio.

Ballybay Native Joe Sullivan now lives in Dublin but is a regular visitor back home. Joe loves music and to make life easier for the residents of his estate during the coronavirus pandemic he decided to have a disco every night. Joe’s entertainment became so popular that he used to stream it live and hundreds of people tuned in from all over including many in Ballybay. Joe played a brilliant mixture of songs and took requests from his many followers. Many a night Joe fought a battle with facebook who threatened to cut him off but Joe persisted and throughout the lockdown played his music on 79 nights. The nights that he didn’t play it was because he had lent his PA equipment so that locals could avail of bingo.
On Tuesday 16th June Joe posted the following, “Just a quick note that tonight's DJing hour will be the last one. Thanks to everyone who has listened over the previous 78 nights. Especially those who tune in most, if not every, night. You know who you are! Tonight is a "Best of" sort of night so I'll hopefully have your company at 7pm!”. Joe certainly had company on the night with over 90 people leaving comments on facebook.
Speaking about Joe’s disco Former Ballybay Councillor Brid Rutlegde said, “When people ask out here what do u rem about covid-19 ? We will all be saying Joe Sullivan”.
Carl Murphy summed Joe’s effort up when he said, “Cheers joe for entertaining us all at this time , 79 shows Is unreal , thanks a million for ur time and effort in makin this lockdown easier with all ur great tunes , take care and stay safe”.
Real heroes don’t wear capes Joe.

The Tidy Towns committee is starting a Thursday Evening Tidy Town clean up. It may mean litter picking, weed picking, sweeping etc. Volunteers can meet at the Square at 6.30 pm and do what they can for an hour or two. Extra helping hands would be very welcome with the general upkeep of the town and if you are coming maybe bring some gardening tools that could be helpful.

The Bishop of Clogher, Larry Duffy has appointed Fr Owen Joe McEneaney PP, Ballybay (Tullycorbet) and Adm of Latton (Aughnamullen West) and Rockcorry (Ematris) parishes, to be a member of the Diocesan Chapter of Canons. A native of Raferagh in Carrickmacross parish, Canon McEneaney has been PP of Tullycorbet since October 2017, having previously been Prior of Lough Derg and Adm of Pettigo and, before that, Adm of Monaghan and Rackwallace (Cathedral parish).
The Diocesan Chapter is made up of Canons who are appointed by the bishop to carry out functions that are entrusted to it by Canon Law or by the bishop. The twelve members of the Diocesan Chapter also fulfil the role of College of Consultors in the Diocese of Clogher, thereby acting as senior advisers to the bishop and, in the event of a vacant See, electing a Diocesan Administrator when required to do so.

Owing to the Covit19 Pandemic the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club is late opening this season. The Local League will start on Friday 26th June when sixteen clubs will play in a rinks format in a knockout competition for the Jackie Rutledge Cup. Following that we will play for the outdoor cup when the same sixteen clubs will compete. All these games will start at 7-30pm. The following is the draw which was made during the week:
St. Michaels v Clontibret C
Latton v Derrynoose
Muckno v Clontibret A
Derryvalley v Tullyvin
Rockcorry v Scotshouse
Ballybay Maroon v Corcaghan
Clontibret B v Cootehill
Ballybay White v Ardaghey
Each Tuesday evening the green will be available for beginners and improvers. Anyone wishing to partake can get in contact with Benny Smyth at 0874152392.

Thanks to Aodh Mc Kenna, one of the latest members of Ballybay and its People for sharing with us the story of ‘Jack the Ripper’. Aodh’s source was a Mrs Wiggens who at the age of 91 provided the information to ‘The Schools Collection’. The story goes - About the year 1827 a character known as "Jack the Ripper" made his appearance in Ballybay. This fearsome man armed with a scythe blade used to waylay and rob people on their way home from the fairs and markets. Once in the Laragh lane he put the eye out of one Mrs Jane Mc Clelland, and cut the ear of a Mr Jack Murphy, both these people residing in the Ballintra district. These acts so enraged the people that they turned out "en-masse", and scoured the countryside until they found him. They turned him over to the authorities and this was the last was heard of "Jack the Ripper".

Now that most shops are open in Ballybay the Chamber of Commerce would like to remind locals vouchers are available to purchase or spend. Many people received vouchers as Christmas presents and now is a great time to go spend any that you may have lying around the house. Alternatively if you have a wedding, anniversary or birthday coming up why give a gift of a Ballybay Voucher and help the local economy.

Now that all our planters are out on display we would like to remind all business premises of the prize sponsored by Gerry McElroy for this year’s best kept business premises. Thanks to Gerry for this prize and judging will take place in August. We are very grateful also for a donation of €200 to the Tidy Towns Committee by a lady who wants to remain anonymous. So very generous. Our next project is working on a pollinator and pergola for area beside bridge at Loch Mor entrance. If anyone is free to assist with watering of flowers that would be great. Anybody with a jeep that can pull our water tanker and be free for a few hours to water all plants. We are hoping to add a few extra volunteers to the rota. So any help would be greatly appreciated.

Well known Drumhowan native Noel Duffy has over the first 20 days in June has been undertaking to walk virtually 420km from Monaghan to Mizen Head. This week he is virtually in Co. Cork. All the funds raised go to the Irish Heart Foundation and the Acute Stroke Unit in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. He is doing this in Memory of his later mother Nan Duffy who died as a result of a stroke in November 2018. To mark the finish of it he is trying to get as many people as possible to dress in red wherever they are in the country and if possible walk the last mile with him virtually (4.30am) or even be up for sunrise on the longest day of the year this Saturday (4.55am) and send the photo to . - facebook page monaghan 2 mizen or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This is known as #SummerSunrise and it's an opportunity to remember /celebrate people who suffered from heart disease or a stroke which there are many of. You can donate at www.justgiving.com/funraising/monaghan2mizen

The Play Park in the Town Park re-opened on Monday last and a steady stream of users was observed. The young children haven’t been able to use the park for a number of weeks so many local parents welcomed the re-opening. People using the park are requested to practice social distancing and to wear mask and gloves where possible.

Congratulations to local Solicitor, Aoife Connolly, who has recently began her own practice in Ballybay. Aoife worked locally as a Solicitor for a number of years before establishing her own practice early this year. Aoife specialises in Property transactions, Wills and Probate, Agricultural law and Agri-business and can be contacted by telephone on 042 9748755 or by email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Noel Duffy from Drumhowan is at present half-way through his 420km virtual walk from Monaghan 2 Mizen. From June 1st to 20th he will complete 20 half marathons. He is doing this in memory of his mother Nan Duffy. All funds raised go to the Irish Heart Foundation and The Acute Stroke Unit in OLOL Hospital, Drogheda. You can find out more information at www.facebook.com/monaghan2mizen You can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/monaghan2mizen . Then at sunrise on Saturday 20th June - longest day of the year - (4.55am) he is asking everyone either to walk the final mile or even get up and just take a photo at sunrise. This is to remember all those who either died or survived Heart Disease or Stroke. Please also wear red, colour of the Heart Foundation and also his mum's favourite colour. #SummerSunrise. As Nan shopped in Ballybay for many years one of the half marathons is going to take place in Ballybay starting and finishing in the park. Next Monday the 15th of June from 3 to 7pm Noel will be walking around the roads of Ballybay (4 laps x5km). If anyone would like to donate or walk (a lap) in memory of Nan please contact Grainne Duffy 086 - 4077737 for further information.

During the pandemic the Latton Bawn Historical Group have been very active with regular updates on their facebook page. The latest posts concern weddings in the area which were announced and reported on in the local newspapers in the 1950’s and early 1960’s. They make a fascinating read for everyone.

Bank of Ireland have confirmed that the Ballybay branch will re-open for business on Monday 29th June. From that day the bank will be offering advice and self-service banking. Ballybay was one of 83 branches that had been closed due to the Covit 19 pandemic. The branch will open Monday to Friday 10am until 1pm. The general consensus in the town is that is ‘great news’.

There is currently a lot of great work happening in the creche at the moment to get ready to reopen on Monday 29th June. Laura has completed specialised training with all staff. The staff are looking forward to seeing all the children and parents again. Laura wants to reassure parents and families that the plan she has in place will have been implemented with children in mind and they will receive the same excellent level of care and education that they have always.

We would like to sincerely thank Seamus Fitzpatrick, Niall Fitzpatrick, Seamus Duffy and Mark Hughes for supplying the teleporter and clearing gutters along the Main St. last week for the Tidy Towns. It was a great job and greatly appreciated. As the weather has been so bad we left the planters indoors in Charlie Friel’s Garden Centre. Thanks to Cathal for his work on these. The planters will be put out next week. Thanks to Padraig Lennon and CE participants for their help with this. Thanks also to Cuan Mhuire who supply flowers for other flower beds around the town. They will need water to survive and Martin Smyth and Padraig Ward and Padraig Lennon have agreed to help out with this. Hopefully the town will be looking well with all this work in a few weeks. We are urging all property owners to do their bit to keep premises in good repair. Remember also that there is a prize this year for best residential property and best kept business, sponsored by Gerry McElroy. We would also like to thank Michael Leonard from Leonard Engineering for his work on a new decorative hanger for hanging baskets which will be erected at the Bridge at Loch Mor in the next few weeks. We are lucky to have all these people in our town willing to help and give up their time to make Ballybay a Tidy Town.

Congratulations to Leah Rice Mc Cabe who was awarded a Certificate of Merit from Principal Joanne Gormley, Scoil Mhuire, Latton for outstanding attendance. She never missed a day in her 8 years of National School. Leah is a daughter of Gabriella Mc Cabe, Ballybay.

Over the coming months Latton GAA are hosting a series of fundraisers. One of the more interesting ones is a draw for a Charolais Bull Calf. The draw will take place in Liam Smyths on Sunday 4th August. If you are interested in buying a ticket for the draw you should contact either Ashling 0863450512 or Dympna 0877924887.

Best Wishes to Drumhowan U14s Féile Peile na nÓg Team who will be travelling to Co. Galway next weekend with their families and Club Mentors to compete in this year’s tournament, where they’ll be hosted by Northern Gaels in the Parishes of Glenamaddy, Glinsk and Williamstown. The squad is Jason Clarke, Francis Conlon, Conor Curran, Eanna Curran, Tom Doherty, Tristan Duffy, Fuard Harpur, Jerome Lavelle, Jonathan Lavelle, Cian McAdam, Darragh McAdam, Killian McAdam, Nathan McDermott, Eoghan McEntee, James McEntee, Pete McGuirk, Martin Quinn, Oisin Quinn, Tiarnan Reilly, David Traynor, Caolan Treanor and Evan Treanor. This is the first time Drumhowan have qualified for this tournament in the Club’s history.

After a brief lul in the outdoor bowling for the past two weeks its back to normal and indeed catch up on games that were deferred. One of those games was our own Borer Counties game away to Letterkenny which had to be postponed because of the weather. We also have a game with Omagh when they visit us during the week. Ballybay are in 3rd place in this league so its important we get maximum points when playing at home. The league standings are as follows:

The annual Blessing of the Graves will take place on Sunday 28th July 2019. In Tullycorbett it will be after 9-30am mass, in Ballintra it will be after 11am mass while in Ballybay it will take place at 3pm.

What a great day it was on Monday last for the Scoil Èanna Annual Fun Run which raised an amazing €3640. A massive thanks is due to the teachers and staff who have been preparing the children for the past few weeks for the big run. Local athlete Conor Duffy who is well known in Irish athletics circles launched the run and Ballybay Fire Brigades Daryl Gilmore helped lead the run.

The run set of up the Main Street getting great support from all that came out to support the children and parents on the run. The run finished off with a lap of the local park before all participants headed back up to Scoil Èanna to get their well-earned refreshments. A special mention to the Corner Shop, Ballybay who donated all the water for the children and also Drury Centra Ballybay for donating all the lovely fruit.
Big thanks goes to all the parents and friends who turned out to help. A big thank you to all the children and parents who raised over€3000. Looking forward to see you all again next year.

Friday 21st June is International Yoga Day and a number of specific classes and demonstrations have been organised for the Wetlands Centre. This is a day for helping and supporting others. All classes and events are ‘FREE OF CHARGE’ however donations can be made and these in turn will be provided to the Ballybay Cancer Society and Camphill. There are events for everyone starting at 6am and running all day until 8-30pm. First up is a special class from 6am until 8am. This will consist of a very traditional Indian practice called Surya Namaskar (Sun Saluation) which is practiced with the rising sun 108 times. This number has a lot of meaning and is very symbolic in Yoga. It is a beautiful and incredible experience. A class for children and teenagers will take place between 12 noon and 1-30pm. In the afternoon between 2pm and 4pm there will be a session called “understanding and exploring the traditional practice of yoga plus its mental and physical health benefits”. This session will include demonstrations. Yoga for the older person will be between 5pm and 6-30pm and the day will finish with an adult yoga class between 7pm to 8-30pm.

Doohamlet Childcare are having a free family fun day on Sunday 30th June between 2pm and 6pm. Amongst the attractions will be a mobile pet farm, magic show, total wipeout and an obstacle course. This event is suitable for children of all ages and should be a great afternoons fun.

The Ballybay News has been contacted by a local resident who witnessed the misuse of the pedestrian crossing in the town recently and asked if we could remind people that the pedestrian crossing is not a zebra crossing and that pedestrians should wait until the lights turn red before crossing. The responsible resident had seen a child run straight across the road as if they were using a zebra crossing. Pedestrians should push the button on approach to the crossing and only cross when the traffic lights turn red and it is safe to cross.

An Al Anon Public information meeting will be held in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay on Saturday the 6th July 2019 at 3pm. Al Anon has only one focus to help and support families and friends of problem drinkers. Anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else's drinking may attend an Al Anon group.

An Open day will be held at Camphill’s Robb Farm, Clones Road, Ballybay on Saturday 29th June from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is free and on the day there will be numerous attractions including weaving, a cake stall, bric-a-brac, bouncy castle, craft sale, home produce, candles, face painting, a barbeque and refreshments. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac would be very much appreciated. Further information is available at 042 9748197.

Ballybay Golf Society’s annual President’s Day take place on Saturday next in Clones. Tee times are from 11am until 12-30pm. Good luck to all

Donna and Ciara Mc Adam would like to thank everyone who supported their recent Bake sale especially anyone who baked and provided food. The amount raised was €1425 which will go towards supporting Lourdes Youth Helpers.

Friday 21st June is International Yoga Day and two local charities will benefit from a series of yoga classes which will be held in Ballybay on that day. The day will be a celebration of yoga and an opportunity to help and support Camphill and the Ballybay Cancer Society. More information next week.

Congratulations to Katie Glynn representing Tullycorbet who won a silver medal in the 100m sprint at the County Community Games Athletics Finals in Clones last Saturday.

Children are invited to register for Summer Stars and be part of the adventure by reading as many books as they can over the Summer. All participants will be given a Summer Stars reading card to record and track their own progress. All children will receive a certificate and medal on completion. To reserve a place call in or phone Pauline on 042/9741256.

Ballybay GAA Club are hosting Kelloggs GAA Cúl Camps from Monday 15th July to Friday 19th July. Book online at www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie You need to book before the 21st June to guarantee kit for camp and to enter the early bird prize draw.

An Al Anon Public information meeting will be held in Cuan Mhuire, Ballybay on Saturday the 6th July 2019 at 3pm. Al Anon has only one focus to help and support families and friends of problem drinkers. Anyone whose life is or has been affected by someone else's drinking may attend an Al Anon group.

A massive thank you to everyone who either helped out or contributed to our flag day last weekend. The amount raised was a fantastic €1680-75. Congratulations to Chairman Jason and Secretary Odelle on the birth of their daughter Zoe Marie.

An Open day will be held at Camphill’s Robb Farm, Clones Road, Ballybay on Saturday 29th June from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is free and on the day there will be numerous attractions including weaving, a cake stall, bric-a-brac, bouncy castle, craft sale, home produce, candles, face painting, a barbeque and refreshments. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac would be very much appreciated. Further information is available at 042 9748197.

Kiran Young Wimberly and the McGrath family, will return to sing and play in Cahans Meeting House at 8pm on Friday 14 June. The evening will include songs from their latest CD - Rest in the Shelter - and will also feature Kiran's versions of Psalms set to Irish and Scottish traditional and folk melodies from their earlier CDs. Cahans with its acoustic qualities provides a unique setting so much so that they included a photo of the group performing at Cahans on their CD. There will be no charge but donations to cover expenses will be welcome. If you want a sneak preview of what to expect then check out http://scanmail.trustwave.com/?c=6600&d=up_13PMpm5R0rnOqedqmtI7e1x9StU6z6jKnJ-eGaw&s=393&u=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2ecelticpsalms%2ecom for lots of information about the group and samples of their recordings.

In the coming weeks the Tidy Towns committee will be putting out planters with flowers around the town in anticipation of judging which will take place in June. The committee would appeal to everyone to ensure that their properties are spick and span. Weeding, litter picking, painting, etc should all be done asap. The committee are particularly appealing to landlords and owners of derelict properties to do their bit. Gerry Mc Elroy will be sponsoring a prize for the best kept premises so please get to work and help impress the judges who will be here soon.

Drumhowan GFC are holding a Breakfast morning on Sunday June 16th as a fundraiser for their U14 teams upcoming trip to Feile in Galway. Breakfast served from 8-30am till 12-30pm and all support appreciated.

The Faith Mission Monthly Gospel Service will take place on Friday 7th June 2019 at 8pm in Rock Corry Presbyterian Church hall (kindly granted). The speaker will be Andrew McCullough. All Welcome - Refreshments afterwards.

All welcome to Summer Praise in Corlea Presbyterian Church on Sunday 9th June 2019 at 4pm led by Rev Dr Jean Mackarel and choir members - come along and bring a friend.

The next Social day in Cuan Mhuire is on Friday 14th June at 11am. Everyone welcome.

The official opening of the new dining room at the Community Creche will take place on Saturday next 8th June at 2pm. The Creche have led on lots of entertainment for the children including bouncy castles, disco, nail art and face painting. There will be a special guest appearing on the day. Everyone welcome.

Our cross-border team travelled to Letterkenny last night. The game was played on grass were points are hard to get but we will be hoping that we got a share of the points. More details next week. The local league is progressing well, and back matches have been cleared up. The first of our Saturday games will be played this weekend when we play for the Gibson Trophy, starting at 10-30am. The dates for the champion of champions will be arranged next week and a full list will be displayed in the club house. These will include singles, pairs and rinks.

Sessions in the House is a Northern Ireland based studio who provide a platform for new talent to have their time in the spotlight. Check out Ballybay and its People facebook page where you can see a performance at Sessions in the House by Ballybay’s very own Joanne Lynch. The talented singer songwriter is seen performing one of her own songs called ‘Lean Living’. Its worth a watch – you will not be disappointed.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers would like to thank everyone who helped or contributed to their recent annual juvenile flag day. The total raised was a fantastic €2,539.50.

Good luck to Katie Glynn who is competing in the Under 14 100m at the County Monaghan Community Games Athletics Finals in Clones next Saturday 8th June.

Last Saturday the Parish of Tullycorbet celebrated the 65 years of Priesthood and 90th birthday of Monsignor Gerard McSorley, retired PP of the parish and former Prior of Lough Derg. The highlight was a Mass of Thanksgiving at St Patrick’s Church, Ballybay, at which Bishop Larry Duffy presided. The mass was attended by numerous priests from the Clogher diocese. This was followed by refreshments in the Cuan Mhuire Centre.

The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club is holding top spot in the Border Counties league when after 5 games they have a score of 36 points, four ahead of Enniskillen who are on 32. Our next game will be this week when we are away to Fivemiletown.

The local league is progressing well with the Ballybay Green team still on top and are likely to qualify for the play off. That will be some weeks off as section one has a number of games to play yet.

As part of a sports inclusion programme our club has been asked to hold a 4 week bowls programme on our green starting on Tuesday 26th June from 11am to 1pm. This will cater for adults with special needs and so we will at least 6 of our members to help during the two hours. This will be the third year that we have hosted this programme so our members should know the format.

The time sheet for the champion of champions singles (30th June) is ow posted in the club pavilion and now is the time to get your name on the list. All the teams that play in the outdoor league can put their name forward to play in the outdoor cup which will be played in early August.

The first game in the Town Tournament has taken place between Pat O Brien’s and a Bingo selection. Pat’s team showed their class by winning with the last bowl. There will be more teams playing this week so all are welcome to come and enjoy the fun.

Summer Stars is an exciting reading-based programme which is available free of charge to all children. It will run during July & August in Ballybay Library, and children are invited to register at the library and be part of the adventure. All participants will be given a Summer Stars Reading Card to record and track their own progress. There will be rewards and incentives along the way and a grand finale at the end for all participants. There is a great online resource at www.librariesireland.ie/summer-stars which has lots of online games and activities as well as a range of animated ebooks. You will find a children’s books discussion board and interviews with well-known people about their favourite books. There are helpful tips for reading and recommended titles by age group. And remember it’s all FREE! And check out our summer programme of workshops for children by visiting the library today!

Calling all young people from Ballybay Saturday 23rd June from 6pm, Garage Theatre Monaghan Free Cultural Evening for young people aged 13 and over Cruinniú na nÓg is a national day of creativity for our young people. So what can young people expect on the evening? The evening will kick off from 6pm with outdoor performers and artists, music, indoor activities, and heaps of ice cream to keep cool. How about challenging your friends with some traditional fairground games or have a go in the games room! Or Perhaps karaoke or dancing is your thing! Then we will be led into the Spotlight of the grand theatre of the Garage by Extreme Rhythm, and our young people will take to the stage to entertain with an ensemble of music.

So it is certainly promising to be a very special evening for all young people to join in. From dramatic performers, world renowned percussionists, caricature artists to the main showcase of the evening – our own young people taking to the stage of the Garage Theatre, this is an event all young people should head to!

And Remember it is FREE to attend – to guarantee your ticket for the showcase contact the Garage Theatre on 047-39777

It is with deep regret that we must report that at the weekend someone decided to vandalise the new planter at the entrance of Loch Mor Avenue. At least one of the new plants was pulled out and thrown on the ground nearby, Speaking to the Ballybay News Tidy Towns Chairman Martin Gleeson was not one bit happy. “The tidy towns committee and many local volunteers have worked very hard to improve the look of the town. This included installing a new flower planter at the entrance to Loch Mor Avenue. Sometime on Sunday someone pulled some of the flowers out of the planter and threw them on the ground nearby. This happened in broad day light and someone is bound to have seen it. It is disgraceful that someone has done this and I would urge anyone who knows the culprit to either tell any of our committee or inform the local Garda”, said Martin. The Tidy Town committee has worked tirelessly in recent years to improve the look of the town and the town has been improving its score in the National competition. Pressure from the committee resulted in Monaghan County Council arranging for weeds in the street to be sprayed with weed killer this week. Anyone wishing to volunteer to help out with the regular litter picks, etc should contact Martin.

The recent appeal in aid of Syria raised €933-38c. The organisers would like to thank everyone who contributed to the collection.

Monaghan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) is pleased to launch the new Community Enhancement Programme 2018. Funding in the amount of €132,571 has been made available for the county by the Department of Rural and Community Development which will be administered through the LCDC.Monaghan Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) is pleased to launch the new Community Enhancement Programme 2018. Funding in the amount of €132,571 has been made available for the county by the Department of Rural and Community Development which will be administered through the LCDC.

CEP Guidelines PDF >>

CEP Application Form PDF >>

The Ballybay pearse Borthers held a very successful Big Brekfast in their club house on Sunday last. On the day players served the breakfast for all who attended.

Monaghan Rose local girl Hannah Mooney from Carrickatee is holding a fundraiser in the Aughnamullen Social Centre on this Sat. 16th June. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate Hannah's success as well helping raise funds towards her journey to Tralee while at the same time supporting Ballybay Cancer Society. Music on the night is by Brendan Mc Court and admission is €10.

This year’s annual senior citizens outing takes place on Thursday 21st June. The trip will be to the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and will be followed by tea and scones in the Coachman’s Inn. The bus will leave Riverdale at 10am and the cost is €20 per person.

There was a full turn out of members for the Jimmy Gibson memorial shield which was played for on Saturday last in glorious sunshine. After a long and very competitive days bowling on the outdoor green it came down to the final between Philip Gibson and Daniel Mc Cormack with the latter going on to win for the first time. Jocky Gibson made the presentation and thanked all for attending and making the day a wonderful event which the 24 degrees temperature also played its part.

The Ballybay Green team is still at the top of the local league with a maximum 24 points. Well done to them as they are mostly new members this year. The town tournament is getting under way this week and its hoped to have games every Tuesday and Thursday. You can still enter a team by contacting Stephen Duffy (the one that has all the answers). The local club are now at the top of the Border Counties Bowling League but with our next three games away and on grass this may change.

The Franciscan pilgrimage to Knock takes place on Sunday 24th June. The bus will leave the Square at 8-15am. To book a seat on the bus contact Kathleen at 0872100546 or Teresa at 0876198410.

Summer Stars starts at the Library in Ballybay on Monday 2nd July. This is an exciting reading-based programme which is available free of charge to all the children in Ballybay and the surrounding areas. Children can pop into the library and register their interest free of charge and thereafter they will be given a card to track and record their progress as they attempt to read as many books as possible over the summer. 

Every child who takes a book out on a Monday and returns it before the week is out will be entered into a weekly prize draw. This is an 8 week challenge and further information is available in the library or at: www.librariesireland.ie/summer-stars

The Pearse Brothers club had two sad passing’s in recent times. Former player Eamon Keenan and former manager Michael Mc Keown both passed away in the last fortnight. The club send their condolences to the family and friends of both Eamon and Michael.

Wetland Running Club member Sinead Doherty was the winner of the Corduff Ladies GFC 5km road race on Sunday last. Congratulations Sinead.

Soccer

Well done to the Under 12 Outdoor Soccer Team who played a number of matches over the last few weeks and successfully collected County Monaghan Silver Medals. Team - Eoin Brady, Eanna Curran, Adam Dixon, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, B (U12) Dara MC Elmeel, Nathan Mc Dermott, Andrew Mullen, Finian O Neill, Martin Quinn, Oisin Quinn, Eoin Sheridan, Caolan Treanor, Sean Ward and Aaron Wylie. The team is managed by Martin Sheridan and Peter Ward. Congratulations to you. Your hard work has paid off.

Athletics

County athletics finals take place on Saturday 16th June in Clones. We wish good luck to Mark Drury U10 100m, Eoin Seriadan U12 600m, Katie Glynn U14 800m and Aideen Drury U14 80m Hurdles who are all representing Tullycorbet.

Once again Ballybay and Tullycorbett hosted a very successful County Fleadh with large numbers of participants and spectators in the locality since last Thursday night and over the weekend. Tullycorbett Hall, Ballybay Communty College, the Ballybay Inn and Liam Smyths were just some of the venues which seen lots of action over the weekend. Local TD and Minister Heather Humphries launched the Fleadh and a new addition this year was a heritage trail on the Friday night. Well done to all the participants, volunteers and spectators.

On Saturday the 9th June we will see the start of the competitions when we hold the Gibson singles which start at 11am. There is just a few places left – to book ring Philip or Benny to get your name on the time sheet. The champion of champions will start on Saturday 30th June which will be the singles followed by the pairs on Saturday 21st July. The rinks (4’s) will take place on 4th August. All these games will start at 10-30am. We hope to have these wrapped up by 3-330pm.

The local league is going very well with Ballybay Green setting the pace so far. Tonight’s game will test them as they take on Clontibret at 7-30pm. The Border Counties League last week saw the local side get 2 points away to Letterkenny. That secures second place in the current standings. In the lead is Clogher Valley whom we play this week. Another 10 points will be helpful to keep us at the top.

Children from the parish won five medals including three gold at the Community Games Athletic finals. The committee would like to congratulate all the children who represented the parish each doing their very best.
Gold medals were won by:
Neasa Doherty - 80m U8.
Aideen Drury - 80m Hurdles U14
Jayne Drury - 200m U16.

Silver medals were won by:
Tom Doherty - 600m U12
Daire Sheridan - 1500m U16.

Excellent performances were given by:
Mark Drury - 100m U10
Eoin Sheridan - 100m U12
Katie Glynn - Ball Throw U12.

Our Gold medal winners will now go forward to represent County Monaghan at the Community Games National Festival in the National Sports Campus, Dublin in August.

The Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club has a very busy few weeks ahead with upcoming games in the Border Counties league and also competing in the Mc Guirk Shield. We won the shield in 2013 and again last year so we will be putting in a big effort to retain it this year. The champion of champions competition will be held on Saturday 2nd September at the Omagh club. In order to get the representative from our club we will hold a singles day on Saturday 1st July with the pairs taking place on Saturday 22nd July. All games will start at 11am. If you want to compete you need to put your name on the list in the club pavilion. The draw for the outdoor cup was made last week and there was some very interesting pairings which is as follows: Corcaghan v Muckno, Cootehill v Ballybay White, Ardaghey v Derryvalley, Scotshouse v Ballybay maroon, St. Michaels v Keady, Latton v Shercock while Clontibret Saffron have a bye. These games will take palce on any day by arrangement with the committee.
On June 27th we will host a number of Special Needs groups. This has become an annual event and we are all looking forward to having them.

Latton O'Rahilly GAA will welcome Clontarf G.A.A. Club (U14 boys) and San Francisco G.A.A. (U14 girls) for the finals of the 2017 John West Feile Peil Na nOg. Over 5,000 participants are being hosted by Clubs across Counties Monaghan, Cavan and Fermanagh. Games commence tomorrow, Friday 23rd June, with Latton playing at Cremartin at 4pm, followed by a reception for the Clontarf and San Francisco visitors in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. with refreshments and entertainment. On Saturday Latton play games in Crematin at 11am, 12 noon and 3.30pm. Later that evening the Monaghan v Down game will be shown live in the G.A.A. Centre from 6.30pm and there will be music from 9pm. On Sunday morning Latton participate in the parade and Finals in Clones at 11am. Everyone is invited to attend all games and events in the G.A.A. Centre a marvelous exhibition of Gaelic Games and activities in Latton for Centenary Year.

As the Latton O'Rahilly Club continues the Celebrations of their Centenary work continues on The Museum of G.A.A. Anyone with photographs, newspaper articles or any materials connected to Gaelic activities in the Latton/Bawn Area are requested to bring them to the G.A.A. Centre on any Monday between 10.00am and 12.30pm,where the materials will be scanned and returned immediately. If you know of any materials relating football, hurling, camogie, ladies football, handball, scor, etc please contact Patrick Hamilton on 086-2686619 or Seamus Coyle on 087-6814067 or call to the GAA Centre on Mondays between 10am and 12.30pm. Centenary Ties are available from the G.A.A. Centre. These are limited and are specially engraved for 100 years of Latton G.A.A. Centenary Flags are available by contacting Seamus Coyle on 087-6814067 or from the G.A.A. Centre. There will be a Club Committee Meeting on Thursday 29th June at 9pm.

Mary Mc Guinness was like the cat that got the cream last weekend as she witnessed the christening of her great grandson Ruan. The proud nanny seen the child christened in the same robe she wore 89 years ago. Congratulations to Ruan and his parents Donna and Colin.

On Friday 21st July Ciaran Rosney will perform in The O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre to launch his latest Music Video. A lot of the new video was recorded in the Latton area. Doors open at 9pm and a wonderful night is guaranteed.

A great big thank you to MS Ireland for their very kind donation to Christ Church following Trad on the hill held in Christ Church Ballybay on Sunday 4th June, a very enjoyable evening of traditional music that was thoroughly enjoyed by all, many thanks to Kevin Curran who organised the event and to all involved.

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural & Gaeltach Affairs, Heather Humphreys,pictured with Rev Neal Phair and tradional musicians at the Trad on the Hill concert in Christ Church BALLYBAY on Sunday June 4th

Saturday last the 10th June saw the first of the trophies played for at the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling Club when almost 30 members competed for the Jimmy Gibson Memorial Shield. On one of the hottest days of the year play started at 11am and was finished just after 5pm. This was played in a singles format with all throwing 4 bowls. The final game was outstanding and featured Matt Mooney and Jocky Gibson and it was very fitting to see Jocky take home the Shield with what he said was the best bowls he ever played. The Chairman Benny Smyth made the presentation to Jocky at the end and said it was very fitting that Jocky won it as he played superb bowls all day and had established himself as one of the leading bowlers in the Border Counties league.
Our next competition will be the singles in the Champion of Champions which will take place on the green on Saturday 1st July starting at 11am so now is the time to put your name down on the draw sheet in the club pavilion. The Town Tournament is still on-going with most teams reaching the second round more about that next week.

A number of locals have expressed concern that the local Bank of Ireland branch will no longer be offering cash, foreign exchange and coin services from 9th August. It has been suggested that locals while in the bank should voice their disapproval and ask that the bank reconsider their actions. There is a lot of concern that this could be the beginning of the end for banking in the town.

Ballybay Pearse Brothers will host a fundraising race night in Stookie’s Bar on Saturday 15th July. Anyone interested in sponsoring a race (€100) or buying a horse (€10) should get in touch with any committee member. It should be a great night.

Tullycorbet CCÉ would like to thank everyone within the branch and county board, who helped make the County Fleadh weekend such a success. Many groups/individuals made vital contributions to the weekend’s success. We thank Tullycorbet Community Centre Committee, Ballybay Community College/Recreation Centre, Ballybay Chamber of Commerce, Monaghan County Council, Comhaltas Meitheal Fund, Oriel Sailing Club & Christchurch, Minister Heather Humphreys, Fr La Flynn and Rev. Neil Phair, Corduff Pipe Band & O’Neill Pipe Band Clontibret, local businesses who provided financial support and hosted sessions and all musicians, parents and helpers. The branch where delighted with the success of the weekend’s events, and had many medal winners in the Fleadh competitions. Full details of these will be on the Tullycorbet CCÉ Facebook page, and in the county board Comhaltas notes.

The County Monaghan Athletics Finals take place this Saturday 10th June at the Clones Peace Link. Events will begin at 11am with U8, U10 and U12 events taking place before lunch and U14 and U16 events on after lunch (starting at approx 1.30pm). Entrance charge on the day of €3 per adult/ €5 per family. Programmes will also be on sale at €2 each. Tea, coffee and snacks will be available to buy in the Peace Link Centre. Good luck to the following local athletes who are representing our area at the county competitions:
Neasa Doherty - 80m U8, Mark Drury - 100m U10, Eoin Sheridan -100m U12, Tom Doherty - 600m U12, Katie Glynn - Ball Throw U12, Aideen Drury - 80m Hurdles U14, Emma Glynn - 1500m U16, Jayne Drury - 200m U16 and Daire Sheridan - 1500m U16.

A Traditional Music Session Night will take place in the Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre on Saturday next 10th June commencing at 9pm. All musicians/singers and artists are invited along for a great night of traditional entertainment. Refreshments will also be served.

The distribution of flags and registration of same will be available at the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre, Latton on Saturday evening next10th June from 8.30pm. The flags and registration is available to all families and friends of a deceased person, who were associated with Latton O'Rahilly G.A.A. Club in any way over the past 100 years. Flags available to be placed on their place of rest both locally or across the world. A limited number of specially Centenary Crest Engraved Ties have been commissioned by the Club and are available in the O'Rahilly G.A.A. Centre. Numbers are limited as these are Souvenir items.

The Ballybay and its People facebook page recently received the following message – “Hi thank you so much for accepting me in your group. I'm not from Ballybay but I'm hoping someone might be able to help me get in touch with a lady whose maiden name was Bernadette Nesbitt from Ballybay. We did nurse training together from 1977-1980 in London. We were best friends until I left in 1981 to come to Oz and as was the case back then it was just too difficult to stay in touch. I'm originally from Meath , my Maiden name was Margaret O Brien. A few of us from our class is having a get together in London in Nov and as I'll only be there for a week I'd really love to make contact with Bernie Thank you so much..I remember her mum was May Nesbitt I met her once”. Numerous people have replied and it has been established that Bernadette was a daughter of Tony Nesbitt and lived on the Castleblayney Road and attended St Louis, in Monaghan. She married a man by the name of Guthrie and is living in England. Well thankfully the story has a happy ending. Local lady Patricia Conlan was key as she contacted Bernadette’s sister Rosaleen and Margaret and Bernadette are now back in touch. And for the record Bernadette is a nurse in the Nightingale Hospital in Westminster, London. So while facebook often gets lots of critism thankfully on this occasion it proved to be a power of good in reuniting two old friends.

Ballybay Cúl Camp will run from 17th - 21st July, catering for boys and girls from 5 - 13 years old. The camp will operate from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. each day, costing €60 for one child, your second child is €50 and every sibling after that is €40. The Co-Ordinator for this camp is Colin Malone.

Kayak lessons will be available on Wednesday evenings at the Wetlands centre. Further information is available by contacting the centre on 042 9748022.

The County Fleadh which is being held in Ballybay and Tullycorbett kicked off Thursday 1st June and runs for the next four days. Locals should get their flags and bunting out in order to welcome the large number of musicians from all over the county. Minister Heather Humphreys will formally launch the Fleadh on Thursday in Tullycorbet Hall at 8pm. On Friday there will be a heritage trail through Ballybay. Anyone interested in attending this should assemble at the Riverdale Hotel at 7-30pm. Later in the evening (9pm) there will be a music session in Liam Smyth’s. On Saturday the Community College will host competitions from 10am and there will be numerous music sessions in the town pubs. Sunday will be the busiest of the festival with a feast of activity. There will be music in St. Patrick’s at 12-15pm and this will be followed with open air concerts throughout the afternoon in the town centre. Tullycorbet Community Centre will host Sean No’s and set dancing from 2pm. At 4-30pm there will be a marching band parade. This will commence at the Community College. The Ballybay Inn is the place to be from 6pm when the best young musicians in the county will perform. History buffs can then head to Christchurch where there will be a lecture on the famous Ballybay piper William Clarke at which will be followed by a concert in the church at 7-30pm.

Ballybay Social Club has their annual summer bus trip on Friday 9 June next. The outing is to Blackrock with morning coffee/tea at Broomfield and dinner on the way home at Watters Castleblayney. Meet for the bus at the Riverdale Hotel Car Park at 10 am. All in fee €15. Everyone is welcome. Further details from Charlie 086 0660270.

Everyone is welcome to a Gospel Meeting in the Faith Mission Hall, Bushford, Rockcorry on Friday 2nd June 2017 at 8pm. This is organised by Ronnie & Carey Killops of the Faith Mission. . All welcome. Plan to come, and bring a friend. Refreshments afterwards.

The organizers of the recent church gate collection in aid of Epilepsy would like to thank everyone who helped or supported in anyway. The amount collected was €705.

Good luck to all competing in the County Fleadh this weekend, especially members of Tullycorbet CCÉ. All in the branch are looking forward to hosting the county fleadh for the first time. Theres a great program of events, including a session with teachers from around the county in Stookie’s on Saturday at 9:30pm. Full list of events is available in the county board Comhaltas notes and on the Tullycorbet CCÉ Facebook page

Camphill will host their annual summer open day on Saturday 17th June at Robb’s Farm from 2pm until 5pm. Admission is absolutely free and amongst the many stalls there will be face painting, candles, bric-a-brac, weaving, and numerous crafts. Donations of cakes and bric-a-brac are most welcome.

Defibrillator (AED) Refresher Training will be held in Tullycorbet Community Centre on Tuesday, 6th June from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. for all those from the Tullycorbet and Ballybay areas who were previously fully trained in CPR/AED. Please note that prior to this date, an individual text will be forwarded to everyone who has been trained by this group, to advise of the allocated time slots for attending. This is an invaluable community resource and regular refresher training is imperative.

An op-en Car Boot Sale will take place at Cuan Mhuire on Monday 5th June. All car boot sellers welcome. There will be a working forge demonstration and old style butter churning. Should be a great day and admission is free.

Monaghan LEO has partnered with InterTradeIreland to deliver a Go-2-Tender 2 day workshop. This workshop progresses from out first Go to Tender Lite programme.
The programme is aimed at micros and SMEs, and is designed to demystify the public procurement process and provide knowledge and practical skills to tender successfully for public sector contracts across the island.

If you are aware of businesses that may not have been successful in tendering process, or have talked to you about trying to start to tender for public sector contracts you might like to forward information on this programme to them.

We are subsidising the course (€50 for full course, mentoring and refreshments).

Full programme details here >>
Register here on Monaghan Local Enterprise Website >>.
Advise quick registration as places are limited.

What a great day it was on Tuesday last for the Scoil Éanna Annual Fun Run. With the Children getting prepared for the big day out this past six weeks under the guidance of the Teacher and Staff so a big thank you to all of them.
Conor Duffy our local athlete well known within the Irish Athlete Circle and now All Ireland 5000 metre winner launched the Fun Run, Ballybay Fire Brigade where on the ground to help lead off the Run. The run set off up the Main St getting great applause from all that came out to support the children and parents on the run. The run finished off with a lap of the Park before all participants heading back up to Scoil Éanna to get their well deserve refreshments.
A special mention to The Corner Shop, Ballybay who donated the all the water for the children, and the Parents Association for donating all the lovely fruit but especially to the parents and friends that all turned out to help and take part.
The Fun Run brought in €3695.88 this year so a big thank you and well done to all the Children, Parent and anyone that helped. Thank you to all and we are looking forward to seeing all year again.

The Aughnamullen East Tractor run planned for last Sunday (26th June) has been postponed. The run will now take place on Sunday 10th July and everyone is welcome.

The friends and family of Clare Duffy and Richie Reilly have been in touch to wish the popular local couple all the best on Saturday when they tie the knot. Their reception is clashing with the Monaghan v Donegal replay but all their guests can be assured that they will be kept up to date with the action from Breffni Park. Richie and Clare are wished a long, healthy and happy life together.

The trip by the Ballybay Outdoor Bowling club to Dungannon last week was very rewarding as we came away with 4 points which keeps us in the lead of the Border Counties league. The game in Dungannon also qualified us to play in the next round of the Mc Guirk Shield, that game to be arranged for a later date. This week will see us make the longest of the season when we travel to Letterkenny to play on their grass green, so hope we do as well as last year when we got 6 points.
The draw for the outdoor cup was made and was published in the Northern Standard last week so it’s good to see four matches arranged for this week, check the nights that are free by phoning Benny on 087 4152392.
Don’t forget Saturday 16th July when the champion of champions singles will be played starting at 11am and will be played to a finish on the day.
The bowling for beginners is still on going on each Thursday evening until the end of July so there is still time to come along if you are interested in the game of bowls.

All Primary School age children are welcome to Rockcorry Summer Bible Club, 'Discovering what God is like', from Monday11th July 2016 to Friday15th July 2016 11.00am - 12.15pm each day in Rockcorry Presbyterian Church Hall. The club will consist of games and Crafts, Bible Lessons, Quizzes and Singing. This event is organised by Ronnie and Carey Killops of the Faith Mission.

The Gospel Meetings held on the first Friday in each month in the local Faith Mission hall, Bushford, Rockcorry are cancelled for the months of July and August and recommence on Friday 2ndSeptember 2016 at 8pm with Ronnie Killops of the Faith Mission.

Ballybay Social Club is going on their annual bus outing this year on Friday 8 July next. The itinerary is - meeting at Riverdale car park at 10am, tea/coffee and morning refreshments at An Eglish, Broomfield, then on to the seaside at Blackrock followed by a shopping spree at The Marshes Shopping Centre, Dundalk. On the way home there`s a stop off for a full evening dinner. All are welcome. There`s just a €10 charge which covers everything. The trip is sponsored by the Ballybay Mental Health Association. Any enquiries, contact Gabriel 086 314 5588.

Summer Reading Challenge

Every year the library service organises a summer reading programme, which has grown every year with around 1000 young people taking part across the county. The aim of the challenge is to keep children reading over the summer months, to prevent that reading dip and thus makes it easier when returning to school in September. Research shows that taking part in this reading challenge can contribute towards preventing this ‘summer holiday dip’ in reading motivation and attainment, widen students reading range and repertoire and boost their desire to read at home.

The launch of Ballybay’s Website also took place on the 8th June 2016 in the Wetlands, Centre. The Website was designed by Aura Internet, Carrickmacross with assistance from the Municipal District staff. Funding for the website was granted under the REDZ programme and was match funded by Ballybay-Clone Municipal District. The website covers everything from local business listings to minutes of council meetings.

Richard Parker was the winner of our latest outing to the Nuremore. Despite a small handicap adjustment Richard made little of it and shot 39 points to win. The winners on the day were - Overall Richard Parker, Cat 1 - 1st Gaby Kerr 2nd Paul Mc Keown. Cat 2 - 1st Denis Parker 2nd Niall Duffy. Cat 3 - 1st Theresa Hanawin 2nd Tony Hanawin. Front nine - Mel Farrelly. Back nine - Kenny Farrelly. Nearest the pin - Paul Connolly and Brendan Mc Elroy. 2s - Ronan Connolly. Visitor - Ronan Connolly. A big thanks to our sponsors on the day Mena and Sean martin. Next outing is president Gaby Kerrs prize day in Clones on july 9th.

The horrible weather on Sunday last forced the postponement of the Sports Day and Family Fun Day in Drumhowan. It is hoped that it will take place later in the year.

The local Camphill Community is hosting an Open Day on Saturday 25th June from 2pm until 5pm. The event is being held at Robb Farm on the Clones Road. Admission is free however donations would be very welcome.

Ballybay Social Club is going on their annual bus outing this year on Friday 8 July next. The itinerary is - meeting at Riverdale car park at 10am, tea/coffee and morning refreshments at An Eglish, Broomfield, then on to the seaside at Blackrock followed by a shopping spree at The Marshes Shopping Centre, Dundalk. On the way home there`s a stop off for a full evening dinner. All are welcome. There`s just a €10 charge which covers everything. The trip is sponsored by the Ballybay Mental Health Association. Any enquiries, contact Gabriel 086 314 5588.

Most of the teams in the outdoor bowling league have now completed four games and Clontibret are the leaders in Section one with Ballybay Whites showing good form in Section two.
The next competition on the agenda is the outdoor cup and the draw for that was made last weekend and it is:
Ballybay Maroon v Ardaghey
Ballybay White v Drung
Clontibret Saffrons v Derryvalley
Latton v Scotshouse
Cootehill v Corcaghan
Clontibret White v Knockbride
St. Micahels v Shercock
Keady v Muckno

These games are to be played by the 4th July. Bowling for Beginners started on Thursday and will be on every Thursday evening at 7-30pm until the end of July There was over 30 Special Needs athletes attended our bowling green on Wednesday and it was great to see so many of our members attend to help out from 11 to 1pm. There will be two more weeks before the summer break.
And finally on Saturday 16th July we hold our Champion of Champions singles – so make sure that your name is on the list in the club house in time for the draw.

It’s near that time of the year again, the children will be rushing out the school doors ready to chill out for the summer holidays and what better way to relax than with a good book in their hands. This year Ballybay Branch Library Summer Reading Challenge is in association with Roald Dahl and what a range of fabulous gifts to pick up along the way as children read the books. It is very simple, just pop into the library to sign up and then let the challenge commence, which is to read any 6 books during July-August and is open to all primary school children. This is a great way to keep children reading during the summer, and it is easier in September when they have to hit the books again at school. The Summer Reading challenge has proven to help children with their children whilst out of school.

What a weekend it was for youngsters from the Tullycorbet area. Between swimming and athletics 18 gold medals and 2 silver medals were won and 14 children have secured their place on the Monaghan team for the All Ireland finals in Athlone in August. 7 gold and 2 silver medals were secured in the pool and 6 of the children will now represent Monaghan. In the U8 freestyle Nessa Doherty turned in an excellent performance. The medal winners and those heading to Athlone are:

Last weekend a very successful series of events collectively known as ‘BALLYBAY REMEMBERS 1916’ took place from Friday until Sunday.
A music session featuring Tullycorbett CCE kick started the weekend. This was followed by a fantastic performance of Eugene Mc Cabe’s play – ‘Pull Down a Horseman’. Directed by Harry Cleary and performed by Brian O Harte and Jim Cleary this play re-enacted a meeting between Padraig Pearse and James Connolly which took place in early 1916.

It’s near that time of the year again, the children will be rushing out the school doors ready to chill out for the summer holidays and what better way to relax than with a good book in their hands. This year our Summer Reading Challenge is in association with Roald Dahl and what a range of fabulous gifts to pick up along the way as children read the books. It is very simple, just pop into the library to sign up and then let the challenge commence, which is to read any 6 books during July-August and is open to all primary school children. This is a great way to keep children reading during the summer, and it is easier in September when they have to hit the books again at school. The Summer Reading challenge has proven to help children with their children whilst out of school

Computer Classes for Adults
The following classes, which are all FREE, will take place in Ballybay library during June & July for adults:
iPad/Tablet Classes – 6 week course commencing Wednesday 15th June 10am-12pm. iPads will be supplied or bring your own .
Introduction Internet, Email and online banking commencing Tuesday 21st June 10am-12pm – 6 week course Internet Safety for parents – commencing Wednesday 22nd June 2-4pm for 6 weeks Spaces are limited, so book by telephoning 042-9741256 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The following children will represent the parish of Tullycorbett at the County Finals will take place in Clones this Saturday 18th June. U8 60m (Girls) Abbie Hughes and Tiegan O Neill. (Boys) Mark Drury. U10 100m (Girls) Andrea Quinn (Boys) Oisin Quinn. U10 200m (Boys) Eoin Sheridan. U12 100m (Girls) Aideen Drury. U12 Ball Throw(Girls) Katie Glynn. U14 Hurdles (Girls) Erin Cassidy. U14 800m (Boys) Daragh Sheridan. U16 200m (Girls) Jayne Drury. U16 1500m (Girls) Emma Glynn. U16 200m (Boys) Mark Hughes. Good Luck to all.

Clontibret had a good win over Cootehill in the local league which outs them in top spot with 18 points. In section 2 of the league Ballybay White are having a good run and are in the lead at present but all that could change tomorrow evening (Friday) as Scotshouse take on Muckno and Shercock play Corcaghan. The draw for the outdoor cup will be made during the week and will be published in the Northern Standard next week. The cup games will be 4 persons playing 2 bowls. On Thursday 16th June (tonight) the ‘Bowling for Beginners’ starts and it is hoped to have a good turnout for this. Play will commence at 7pm.
On each Wednesday at 11am we will have the special needs group for 2 hours. Last week we had 35 attend and all enjoyed their game of bowls.
A large number of Ballybay Bowlers had a trip to the new Cavan outdoor green on Saturday last. It is also on all weather surface but a bit slower than the Ballybay Green. All enjoyed the experience and we have been invited back during the summer for a competitive game.

Ballybay Social Club is going on their annual bus outing this year on Friday 8 July next. The itinerary is - meeting at Riverdale car park at 10am, tea/coffee and morning refreshments at An Eglish, Broomfield, then on to the seaside at Blackrock followed by a shopping spree at The Marshes Shopping Centre, Dundalk. On the way home there`s a stop off for a full evening dinner. All are welcome. There`s just a €10 charge which covers everything. The trip is sponsored by the Ballybay Mental Health Association. Any enquiries, contact Gabriel 086 314 5588.

Ballybay Social Group meet again in Cuan Mhuire on Friday 10 June from 11.30 – 2.30pm. This is the last one before the summer break. Brid McCabe has kindly agreed to come in and entertain us with her music and singing. And maybe Stephen will also be on hand too. There will be the usual spot prizes, morning refreshments and lunch served. Everyone is welcome. Further details are available from 086 0660270. The group are planning a day trip in July to the seaside with an evening meal plus a bit of shopping thrown in. All suggestions are welcome. The social group activities are organised by the local Ballybay branch of Mental Health Ireland. The branch committee are grateful to a donation received from Ms Allana McGinn, proceeds of her walk in the Dublin Women`s Mini-marathon.

A Mindfulness Walk takes place at the Wetlands Centre, Clones Rd, Ballybay on Monday 20 June 2016 at 7.45 for an 8 pm start. This free walk lasts for one hour, is suitable for everyone and will be followed by tea and refreshments. The walk is directed by Anja Nohlen, Monaghan, who is a complementary health therapist and is also a trained walking leader by The Irish Heart Foundation.

The walk consists of a brief introduction to Walking Meditation and general instructions, with some stretching and grounding exercises. The round river walk focuses on coming into inner balance with breathing and sensory awareness exercises. The second round river walk focuses on connecting to and being part of the energy flow of the world we are sharing with meditations and visualizations. Ending with a reading of a topic related poem. There is then an opportunity for chatting over a cup of tea and finger food. It`s an interesting way to spend an evening on the solstice, the longest day of the year. Hope you can make it and bring along a friend. Further details if required can be had at 086 0660270. The event is organised by Ballybay Mental Health Association

Proposed Flood Alleviation Measures on the R162 (Ballybay to Shercock road) and the R190 (Ballybay to Cootehill road)

Monaghan County Council is proposing to carry out major works on the R162 (Ballybay to Shercock road) and on the R190 (Ballybay to Cootehill road) to minimise flooding potential on both the R162 and the R190. The proposed works will affect sections of the R162 and the R190 within the townlands of Corrybrannan, Annaneese, Balladian, Cumry, Keenogbane, and Keenogduff.

A public information evening will be held on Thursday, 9th June at Ballybay Wetlands Centre from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Members of the public are invited to call in during this time to view and discuss the drawings and proposals.

It is with great delight that we can report that Deirdre Mc Skeane has been seen out and about thanks to her new wheels. Back in January friends of Deirdre organised a fundraiser and the brilliant amount of €9208 which was raised has allowed for big chnages in Deirdre's life including gaining some independence with a set of "new wheels". As well as the monies from the fundraising night Pauric Ward has supplied materials and Gerry Mc Elroy made arrangements for a ramp to be installed thus allowing Deirdre easy access to and from her home. Deirdre realises that it is impossible to thank everyone individually but she would like to thank everyone who helped in anyway to either organise the fundraising night, those who took part in the night and those who attended. The tagline for the event was FRIENDS HELPING FRIENDS and on this occassion Deirdre is very grateful for the wonderful friends that she has. Deirdre has now learned to drive her new mode of transport, so if you meet her in town or in the park or anywhere else for that matter please stop and have a chat or give her a beep and a wave.

A Table Quiz with a 1916 theme will take place in Liam Smyth's Bar tonight Thursday 9th June. The quiz will get underway at 9pm. Refreshments served and all welcome.

This weekend Friday 10th to Sunday 12th June promises to be a great feast of commemoration of the events of 1916. The theme for the weekend – “Two Paths to One Place” brings together many events of one hundred years ago.
Starting on Friday night (10th) at the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Clubhouse (9pm) is a performance of the play “Pull Down the Horseman” written by Eugene Mc Cabe in 1966. The play recounts a meeting between James Connolly and Padraig Pearse that took place in early 1916. It has been preformed a number of times in Clones and Monaghan this year and we are delighted to host this fantastic play. The evening will begin with a traditional music session at 8pm.
On Saturday 11th June at 6pm a street drama at the Courthouse will re-enact the events that led to the split in the Volunteer movement. This event is one of the highlights of the weekend and will demonstrate that high emotions of people at the time. Following the street drama the “Parade of the Youth” takes place. This is a parade of underage football teams from the parish and surrounding clubs. The participation of youth and culture is very central to the ideals of 1916. At 7-16pm (1916 on the 24 hour clock) a reading of the proclamation will take place. This will be read by people of different religions and ages but who are all from the area. This will be followed by a flag raising ceremony. A large crowd is expected in town for this and they will be entertained afterwards with bouncy castles and music on the street.
A cultural evening of music, dance and poetry is planned for the Ballybay Pearse Brothers Centre on Sunday evening from 3pm until 7pm. An exhibition relating to 1916 will be open all weekend. This will take place in the upstairs meeting room at Liam Smyth’s on Main Street.
Anyone who would like to have anything related to 1916 in the exhibition should contact Rory Mc Atavie at 0877687248 or any committee member.

A coffee morning and cake sale in aid of the upkeep of the church and graveyard of Aughnamullen Parish Church will be held on Saturday 11th June in the Schoolhouse, Aughnamullen. The event will run from 10-30am until 1pm. There will also be a variety of other stalls. Everyone welcome.

Good luck to our local swimmers who will be representing Tullycorbet on Sunday 12th June at the County Finals in Monaghan Swimming Pool. Under8 Freestyle - Nessa Doherty.
Under 10 Backstroke - Eanna Curran. Under12 Freestyle - Conor Curran. Under 12 Backstroke Tom Doherty. Under 14 Breaststroke- Ruadhan Curran. Under 13 Squad - Ruadhan Curran, Connor Curran, Tom Doherty, Caolan Reilly and Tiarnan Reilly.

Well done to the Under 10 Gaelic Football Team who gave an excellent performance in their matches and got through to the Semi-Final. They were managed by Peter Ward, Donal Mc Adam and Martin Sheridan.
Team - Eoin Brady, Peter Byrne, Francis Conlon, Eanna Curran, Simon Du Plessis, Stephen Duffy, Jerome Lavelle, Dara Mc Elmeel, Andrew Mullen, Finian O Neil, Martin Quinn, Oisin Quinn, Eoin Sheridan, Caolan Treanor and Sean Ward. Good work boys.

The following children will represent the parish of Tullycorbett at the County Athletic Finals in Clones on Saturday 18th June. U8 60m (Girls) Abbie Hughes and Tiegan O Neill. (Boys) Mark Drury. U10 100m (Girls) Andrea Quinn (Boys) Oisin Quinn. U10 200m (Boys) Eoin Sheridan. U12 100m (Girls) Aideen Drury. U12 Ball Throw(Girls) Katie Glynn. U14 Hurdles (Girls) Erin Cassidy. U14 800m (Boys) Daragh Sheridan. U16 200m (Girls) Jayne Drury. U16 1500m (Girls) Emma Glynn. U16 200m (Boys) Mark Hughes. Good Luck to all.

Scoil Eanna is seeking a caretaker/cleaner for 20 hours per week. Anyone interested should apply in writing to Fr. La Flynn c/o Scoil Eanna, Ballybay.

Ballybay is one of four parishes in a local Pastoral Area which also includes Rockcorry, Aughnamullen and Latton. Currently all four Vigil Masses take place at 8pm on Saturday evenings. This means that it is not possible for priests to cover mass in a neighbouring area should the need arise. The priests are proposing that in Rockcorry and Ballybay the Vigil Mass should move permanently to the earlier time of 6-30pm on Saturday evenings both summer and winter – this is to ensure that as the need arises two priests between them would be able to cover all four Vigil Masses.

A good result was recorded last week when the Ballybay outdoor bowling club won their away game with Strule in Omagh. They now go on to meet Dungannon Bowling Club in Dungannon on Wednesday 22nd June in the Mc Guirk Memorial Shield. The local club is making good progress in the Border Counties League as they retain top spot with 34 points which is 6 points ahead of Enniskillen who we play next week on their patch.
On each Wednesday morning we have a group from Errigal Truagh Special Needs from 11am until 12noon also a group from Carrick Activation Unit. From 12noon to 1pm we have the National learning Network. There is usually between 30 and 40 including helpers. Last week we had brilliant sunshine which helped with the enjoyment - this will continue each Wednesday in June.
Bowling for beginners will be back on the agenda every Thursday from 16th June. This will also be available to improvers and will continue for 8 weeks starting at 7-30pm. For further details or to book ring Benny 0874152392. The time sheet is now on display in the club rooms for the singles champion of champions so now is the time to get your name down as it is limited to 32 persons.

The local Camphill Community is hosting an Open Day on Saturday 25th June from 2pm until 5pm. The event is being held at Robb Farm on the Clones Road. Admission is free however donations would be very welcome.

Youth Work Ireland Monaghan Branch is hosting SUSI Clinics across the county to help students with their third level grant applications. Help will be available with form filling. In Ballybay students can avail of this service at the Library on 16th and 26th June (5pm to 7pm) and 7th July (5pm to 7pm).

Local man Stephen Duffy will be ordained in St. Macartan’s cathedral, Monaghan on Sunday 24th July. Stephen will then say his first mass in St. Patrick’s Ballybay the following day Monday 25th July. This is a very important occasion for Stephen and his family and we all wish him good luck for his future association with the church.