Train travel has become too expensive
This column has written many times about the high cost of rail travel nationwide and in particular on the Dublin – Sligo line. Unfortunately the pleasure of rail travel to Dublin has increased yet again. A return ticket for two adults from Boyle to Dublin will now set you back a staggering €90! Is it any wonder that the roads are blocked with traffic when the ordinary person with a car has no option financially but to drive to Dublin instead of taking the train. Very soon all that will be using the service will be those with free travel and students who can get discounted fares.
Bridge work now ongoing for six weeks
Little did we (or the contractors) think when the Boyle bridge was being repaired that work would still be on-going over six weeks later. A severed pipe on the western side of the bridge has necessitated the digging up of the footpath and the inevitable interference with the newly laid road surface. Indeed the works have given pedestrians an opportunity to see first hand the quality of piping that brings our water through the town and it does not look great. Traders in Boyle are understandably anxious that the road is opened in the next week or two before the Christmas season gets in full swing. But on a positive note, when all is completed at least we will get a new footpath similar to the beautiful one laid on the opposite side of the bridge.
Memories of the Royal Hotel
This week the Royal Hotel in Boyle was officially put on the market. Unfortunately over the last few months, the historic and landmark building has become somewhat of an eyesore in the town and a sale will hopefully see it restored as a hotel or at least refurbished for good use. Everyone in Boyle has some story or memory of “The Royal”. Sunday nights dancing to Tumbleweed in the Lough Key Lounge was a must attend for the youth of the town in the 1980’s. And how that dance floor stood the test of time must certainly go down as one of life’s great mysteries. The late Seanie McGuinn is another memory that comes to mind when one thinks of the Royal. Seanie was part and parcel of the hotel for many years. The Royal was also instrumental in building families as romances blossomed and future wife’s were found from the staff members that graced the establishments over the years. Let’s hope the future, for this once great venue, will create as many memories as it has in the past.
Boyletoday.com birthday time
It is hard to believe, but Boyletoday.com will be one year in existence tomorow. The website commenced operation on November 22nd 2013 to fill a void that existed at the time for a website that was not a personal one and one that would give up to the minute and relevant news for Boyle town and area, something that was and still is lacking from the traditional media forms. In it’s first year of existence, Boyletoday.com has grown beyond all expectations with viewers logging on daily from the UK, USA, Canada, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany, Australia, United Arab Emirates and Sweden along with many from all over Ireland and of course it’s biggest audience – Boyle. Advertisers have backed the website and in turn the website has backed the town of Boyle with sponsorship throughout the year to the Men’s Shed, Boyle GAA, Boyle Celtic, Curlieu Wheelers,St. Patrick’s Day parade, Christmas lights and a four figure sum to ensure the Shuttle Bus commenced operation between Boyle and Lough Key. To cap off a great first year, Boyletoday.com reached the last ten in the “Best Daily website” in Ireland in the 2014 Web Awards. And there’s more to come. 2015 will see further progress for the company behind the website with other exciting media developments planned. It’s onwards and upwards!
Don’t miss the last few days of Grease
Boyle Musical Society’s production of Grease is in full swing with only three shows remaining before it concludes on Sunday night. The production has once again attracted record crowds to the town which is evident if one drove up the Crescent at 8pm Wednesday or Thursday night when all car parking spaces were full to capacity. The cast of 31 have been rehearsing for the last 12 weeks and their commitment and dedication is evident by the great performances that are on show for all who attend to see. Of course the production would not be possible without the numerous others who assist -the pit chorus, orchestra, crew, committee, backstage and front of house teams. Well done to all involved on what has been a great show.
Christmas lights are ready for lighting up
The last week has seen a meitheal of men gather each evening to erect the new Christmas lights for Boyle. Working form 7pm to midnight on occasion the volunteers have erected lights and features the length and breadth of the town. Work is scheduled to be completed this weekend and when lit up, Boyle will look better than ever before for the Christmas period. Well done to all involved in what is a great example of a community working together.
And Finally….!
Good news – Bad news: The Solicitor says: “I have some good news and bad news” The CEO replies: “I have had an awful day, let’s hear the good news first.” The Solicitor says: “Your wife invested €5,000 in two pictures that are now worth a minimum of €2 million ……” The CEO replies enthusiastically: “Well done, very good news indeed! You’ve made my day; now what is the bad news?” The Solicitor answers: “The pictures are of you in bed with your secretary.”
