RESTAURANT

Up to 600 people marched inDuleek against the proposedwater charges on 1 Novem-ber. The turnout was mas-sive, and even the organiser,Thomas Lynch, was takenaback by the overwhelminglocal support for the nation-wide day of action.‘I am astonished by thegroundswell against watercharges,’ he said. ‘Havingdropped fliers into hundredsof houses in the area I haveheard horrendous stories offinancial situations and I feelthat people really cannot af-ford this latest charge. I alsocampaigned against theHousehold Charge andProperty Tax and found thatpeople were afraid to protestthen. Now they are sostretched that they can’t pay.Of course, there are some whowon’t pay on principle too.’The protest against the watercharges in Duleek was inde-pendently organised and isnot aligned with any politicalparty. The protest coincidedwith over 90 other protestsbeing held around the coun-try, with many joining theDrogheda parade afterwards.A number of elected represen-tatives also attended, includ-

ing party members and inde-pendents.‘I have no confidence whatso-ever in Irish water and theirability to provide a well runwater and sewage service,’said Cllr Sharon Keogan. ‘Itwas great to see so many peo-ple take to the streets, andhopefully more will join thisunjust water tax protest on 10December in Dublin. I cer-tainly won’t be registering!’Speakers included Duleek na-tive and member of DroghedaAgainst The Water Charges,

Anthony Connor. Trim manTony Rochford, who spent 25days on hunger strike outsidethe Dail in protest against theproperty tax, also addressedthe gathering..Another day of action willtake place on Saturday 29 No-vember from 8am-8pm on theVillage Green, Duleek. It’s thefirst Protest & Petition Dayagainst water charges to beheld in Ireland. Supportersare asked to drop in for what-ever length of time they canand sign the petition.

F Duleek water protestors

Duleek & District nowhosts the biggest text alertservice in Meath! TheDuleek based service hasspread to the neighbour-ing districts of Stamullenand Gormanston, withfounder Cllr SharonKeogan invited to addresspotential set up groups inThe Naul and Balbriggan.Costing just €6 per year,participants can choose toget crime text only orcrime texts with otherpublic information. Allmonies collected this yearwill be used for securitymeasures for the elderly

in the area. According toGardai, this group hasdone great work in thefight against crime. TheMeath Crime Preventionteam constantly heraldsthe good work this volun-teer group does. The ded-icated local teamcomprises Garda Ray An-drews and Michele Law-less, serviceadministrator. A supportservice is also offered inCllr Sharon Keogan’s of-fice in Duleek with staffAmanda Smith, CarolineDunne and Alanna An-drews. Garda advice is to

remain vigilant, keep aneye out for suspicious ac-tivity, and report it to theAn Garda Síochána.Make sure you’re con-nected!Donore/Rosnaree Com-munity Alert Group isnow active and residentswho wish to be includedin the Text Alert Listplease text name, addressand mobile number to086-0604771 and savethis number in your mo-bile as ‘Rossnaree TextAlert’. Donations for thisservice are welcome butnot obligatory.

Ardcath's Strictly Come Dancing, in aid ofSt Vincent’s Development Fund, takes to thestage in the TLT Drogheda on Saturday 8NovemberThe parishes of Ardcath & Clonalvy, led bySt Vincent's GFC Club Chairperson, JohnSheridan, are fundraising for dynamic de-velopment of Ardcath’s GAA grounds andfacilities, which will benefit the local com-munity for many years. For the past 5 weeks, the dancers have putmany creative ideas into action to run eventsto help with sponsorship. There has been acocktail evening (dancers Nicky Byrne &Alacoque Hamilton), Slave Auction(dancers Jim Dunican & Miriam Tuite), MrPerfect competition (Donna Kiely & Sean),

Mad Hatter Tea Party (Michelle Connnor),Sup & Splash (Gordon Patterson, Sile Car-berry, Willie Tuite, Nuala Carberry), 5KMRun & Walk (Gordon Patterson & WilieTuite), as well as many coffee mornings andbake sales run by other dancers.Overwhelming generosity has been shownby local businesses and individuals in spon-sorship for the event. All of these fundrais-ers and their success have brought much'Strictly Fever' into the small area and hasshown what strong community spirit canachieve! Best of luck to all of the dancerson Saturday night and continued success toSt Vincents GFC Development Fund. Tick-ets contact Niamh 086-3709972 or Sarah087-6380178.

Text Alert biggest in Meath

CITIZENS ADVICECITIZENS ADVICE

many people in ireland are finding itdifficult to keep up with mortgagerepayments or are in mortgagearrears. this is one of the biggest issuesaffecting our communities today.People are living with negative equity,coupled with reduction in wages andan inability to pay repayments or

interest due. it can be very stressfultime for many famililies. help is there and solutions can be found.Don’t bury your heads in the sand! i’m hosting an information

evening on Wednesday 26 november at 7pm in o’neills of Duleek.Please come along and get the information that may keep you andyour family in your home.if you think you are likely to fall behind in your mortgagepayments, the most important step you can take is to contact yourlender as soon as possible.

Where to get aDviCe anD helP

if you find yourself having difficulty with mortgage repayments,there are several sources of advice and help available.the mortgage arrears information helpline 0761 07 4050 is openfrom 9.30am - 5pm, monday to Friday.mabS, the money advice and budgeting Service, can advise youon dealing with mortgage arrears as well as other forms of problemdebt. the mabS helpline 0761 07 2000 is open from 9am- 8pm,monday to Friday. mabS also operates a nationwide network ofcentres, staffed by specialist money advisers, as well as an emailservice helpline@mabs.ie.you can also contact your local Citizens information Centre forface-to face information and advice, phone the Citizens informationPhone Service on 0761 07 4000, monday to Friday, 9am- 8pm.

l Sharon Keogan

Sharon Keogan is a business woman in Duleek. She is also a Peace Commissioner for your area.

This service is available free to you – why not use it.

PleaSe Call Sharon anytime.Sharon Can be ContaCteD on

041-9880523/mobile 087-6773800or Facebook: Keogan4meath

e-mail: sharonkeogan@eircom.net

Mortgage Advice Night

Indaver Duleek recently wel-comed students from SacredHeart School, Drogheda. Thegirls went behind the scenes todiscover how rubbish fromblack bins is used to generatepower for 22,000 households ayear. More than 80 studentsfrom the school have attendedthe free tour of Indaver’swaste-to-energy facility overthe past three years contribut-ing significantly to the totalnumber of visitors to the sitewhich currently stands at1,800. The 6th years received apresentation by Gayle Pierce ofIndaver before visiting the con-trol room to see how rubbish is

mixed and lifted into the fur-nace, followed by a walk-through the facility‘It is great for us to be able toshow the girls what happens tothe waste they put in theirblack bin after it has been col-lected and the environmentalbenefits of recovering energyfrom this waste,’ said Gayle.Teacher Catherine Horan hasaccompanied the students onthe tours over the past numberof years. She said, ‘It is alwaysinteresting to see the girls’ re-actions to the amount of wastethat is generated in Irishhouseholds and to see a work-ing incinerator in action.’

This year’s annual cycle in aid of Duleek NS was well attended, with amassive €2,500 raised towards the new national school! Organiserswant to top that figure at next year’s event.!Cyclists followed three different routes – 80km, 40km and 15km,suitable for all abilities. The 80km route took in Balrath, Bective,Summerhill and Skryne before returning to Duleek. Almost 100 tookpart in the long cycle, with 40 opting for the more leisurely route of40km. A family fun cycle took place the previous day when familiescycled round The Commons.Funds raised go towards Duleek’s new national school, which takes inthe old boys’ and girls’ schools which have now been demolished. Thenew building comprises 32 classrooms, a general purpose room,ancillary teaching and staff accommodation and 56 car parking spaces.

Duleek can boast manythings, except a StPatrick’s Day Parade –but there will be in 2015!Behind the dynamicmove is the Duleek Re-vival Programme. But

also involved in the sub-committee is Adrian Hill-man. No stranger tocommunity involvement,Adrian is happy to takeon the mantle of organis-ing and directing thisproject.‘The parade will bring awelcome boost to Duleekand surrounding areas,as usually there’s noteven a flag put up for StPatrick’s Day!’ saidAdrian. ‘We want to get agroup together and or-ganise this event for thecommunity. It’s many,

many years since we hada St Patrick’s Day Pa-rade in Duleek – so let’smake this happen!’Adrian is hoping to getlike-minded active indi-viduals involved in theParade Committee, andwants anybody interestedin joining in to contacthim (phone, Facebook orthrough D&D news of-fice) The first meeting ofthe new committee takesplace on Tuesday 11 No-vember in the CountyCouncil offices, Duleek at7pm. All are welcome.

Congrats to Duleek &Bellewstown Active Re-tirement Association whorecently competed in theNational Indoor BowlingCompetition in the ENECKillarney, where they ac-quitted themselves well,finishing among the topteams. Over 60 teams fromall over Ireland took part inthe week of competitions.The ARA has a busyschedule for autumn / win-ter. As well as continuingwith the bowling on Tues-

day afternoons in DuleekParish Centre, they arealso organising raisingevents, such as poker clas-sic, supermarket packing

and much more. There willbe an Open Day in DuleekParish Centre on Tuesday4 November from 2pm.Everyone welcome.

The children of St. Fin-ian’s NS Clonalvy in-vited Mr Glen Millerambassador from MSIreland to launch theirfundraising Readathonrecently. All fundsraised over the durationof the Readathon willgo to this worthy char-ity for sufferers of mul-tiple sclerosis. The fantastic sum of€700 was raised byparents, pupils andstaff at St. Finian’s NS

Clonalvy in their recent4K school walk and

Fun Football day. Con-grats to all involved!

Pupils from 5th and 6th class and their teacherMs. Proctor with Mr. Millar at the launch of theirREADATHON for MS Ireland

Scoil Naomh Cianain(Cushenstown School)marked an importantmilestone in its history,namely, its 80th an-niversary. The schooloriginally dates back to1867 but was rebuilt in1934 in its current loca-tion, near KilmoonCross, just off theR152. Famous pastpupils of the school in-clude former TaoiseachCharles J. Haughey,Meath footballers PeterMc Dermott and JohnMc Dermott, DominicHannigan, Labour T.Dand more recentlyHeather Jameson, who

represented Ireland in the London Paralympics in 2012.The 80th anniversary was commemorated with a mass at the school cel-ebrated by Bishop Michael Smith and Fr. John Conlon PP. Past andpresent principals, teachers, pupils, parents and members of the localcommunity attended and participated in the Mass, with the school choirsinging hymns and songs. Mass concluded with a presentation to BishopSmith made by two past pupils from the class of 1934 and a pupil cur-rently in Junior Infants. Refreshments were provided in the school af-terwards. The night was an enjoyable and memorable occasion for all.

Class of 1934 - Two former pupils pictured withBishop Michael Smith

The Duleek Foróige Youth Club,recently had their fourth annualCheerios Childline Breakfastmorning in the Parish Centre.Members, aged between 12 – 16,cooked and served hot and coldbreakfast to many customersover the morning. A total of€250 was raised on the day, andall will go to Childine to carryout their services to help theyouth of the country. A big thankyou to all who made donations,including Spar Duleek, Brennans( Kevin Campbell), AdrianMurray for milk, Sharon Keoganfor rashers and sausages, KathyMcGrane, Suzanne Rickard andalso to all the leaders of the clubwho supported the members!Duleek Foróige Junior Grouprecently elected a new committeeof members. They are:Chairperson: DoneraMickeviciute, aged 13 andattendsThe Sacred Heart school.Secretary is Ciara Bohan, aged 13and attends St. Olivers CC.Treasurer is Amy Hanna, aged 13and attends Sacred Heart school.PRO is Jack Geraghty, aged 12and attends St. Olivers CC.

Duleek Foroige members at their recent annual Cheerios Childline Breakfast

Bellewstown Heritage GroupBellewstown Heritage Group member, FionaAhern, will speak at a history event, ‘The GreatWar and Meath’ in Navan Library on Tuesday11 November at 11am. Other talks are ‘Navan &The Great War’ with Ethna Cantwell, Navan &District Historical Society, and ‘Dunboyne & TheGreat War’ with Pauline Moynihan & RitaRedmond, Old Dunboyne Society. No bookingnecessary. All welcome.Bellewstown Heritage Group has released asouvenir dvd of the unique Service ofCommeration for 34 men from the Bellewstownarea who took part in the First World War. Toorder phone 041-9880831 or emailjohn.bellew@bellews.com.

Battle of Julianstown bookA new book detailing The Battle of Julianstownand the Siege of Drogheda in 1641 is currentlynearing publication and should be available bythe end of November (a timely Christmaspresent!).In November 1641 a group of 650 Englishsoldiers were on their way from Dublin toDrogheda to protect it as it was under siege byPhelim O’Neill and Irish insurgents. On theirway through Julianstown, rebels routed them onthe banks of the Nanny, and 600 of the soldierswere killed in the bloody battle that ensued.This new book looks at the Battle of Julianstownand the Siege of Drogheda, with a detailed studyof the Nanny battlefield. This particular battlehad significant consequences in the wider sense,taking into account the Confederate Wars ofBritain and Ireland during the 17th century.

Duleek runners at marathon

Congrats to all the locals who took part in the Dublin CityMarathon. Pictured is a group from Duleek

Halloween proved a scarey time for children andfamilies at a number of venues in the area. Therewere parties and parades, walks and gatheringsacross Duleek & District, with faces coloured andfancy dress costumes to be seen.Winner of Duleek & District news’ Halloweencompetition was Abi Smith-Doyle, Ardcath, age 12who attends St. Patrick’s NS, Ardcath, who re-ceives a prize of a year’s family Heritage Card,courtesy of the Office of Public Works, entitling afamily to visit any of the OPW heritage sites in Ire-land free for a whole year!Picture is a skeleton at the Simpson Stage SchoolFright Night in Duleek!

Scary skeleton! At the Simpson StageSchool Fright Night in Duleek

Bellewstown Halloween Walk

3 headed monster at Naul Spook Walk

Winner of Duleek& District news’Halloweencompetition wasAbi Smith-Doyle,Ardcath, age 12who attends St.Patrick’s NS,Ardcath, whoreceives a prizeof a year’s familyHeritage Card,courtesy of theOffice of PublicWorks, entitling afamily to visit anyof the OPWheritage sites inIreland free for awhole year!

Oldbridge scares

DJ Sam at Pudden Hill with pals

At Bennets of Ardcath

Congrats to young James Finnerty fromSkryne who has been signed up by EnglishPremier League side Aston Villa in the newyear. The 15 year-old transition student year stu-dent at St Patrick’s Classical School,Navan recently signed a three-year dealwith the Villa Park team. However, be-cause he is not 16 until early in the newyear he won’t be joining the English clubuntil next July. Finnerty, who is a centre-half, played atunder-age level with Skryne/Tara and Ra-toath before signing for Dublin schoolboyelite club Belvedere FC. He was invitedover to Aston Villa on a number of times

for trials before they offered him a con-tract. As well as playing at club level withBelvedere, James is also part of the Repub-lic of Ireland u-16 squad. James is a son of Padraig Finnerty whoplayed senior football for Meath and waspart of the team that won the CentenaryCup in 1984. His mother, Sheila McCor-mack from Killeen, is a relative of the fa-mous Cavan footballer Phil ‘The Gunner’Brady who helped the Breffni County winthe All-Ireland at the Polo Grounds, NewYork in 1947. Part of James Finnerty’scontract with Aston Villa includes a studyperiod each day as part of his preparationsfor the A-Level exams in England.James Finnerty

A big thanks from Stamullen FC to Race Night sponsors,parents, coaches, club members and all those who supportedthe night. It was a huge success and €2,478 was raised forthe club. Thanks to the fundraising committee, Whites andMarcus, compere and DJ for the night.As well as great fun at the races, there was music, finger foodand a raffle. Prizes included a signed Ireland jersey, a pairof designer sunglasses, €50 Paddy Power voucher, and a 4-ball at Bellewstown Golf. Come along & bring some friends!Stamullen FC has elected a new committee as follows:Chairman - Dave Reddin, Secretary - Marcus Kelly,Treasurer - Emma Hartfield, Child Welfare - Denise Keogh,PRO - Niall Bracken, Fundraising - Linda Richardson, ClubDevelopment Officer - Darren Abraham. Outgoingcommittee members Jill Stout, Mary Grant and ColmGallagher were thanked for all their hard work, support anddedication over the past year

Stamullen Football Club

Pictured enjoying the Race Night

DuleekSoccer ClubDuleek soccer club’s all weatherpitch will be in big demand overthe wet winter evenings nodoubt! Team slots available onWednesday and Friday nights, aswell as weekends. Contact PatO Brien at 086/1662018 orBrendan Mc Keown at087/2371916;Club Meeting room, seats 60people and is available for hire.Club Training continues everyTuesday and Thursday nights atclub grounds 8-9.30pm. Newmembers welcome at all times.Schoolboys Creche for under 4,5, 6 ,7 children runs everySunday morning at 11am -12.15.Senior club has 2 teams within

Meath And District League,First Team in Premier DivSunday, and Second Team inPremier Reserve Saturday.Schoolboys / Girls have 16teams In both DroghedaSchoolboys/Girls league andNorth Co Dublin schoolboysleague.The club would like to thanksponsors Duleek Credit Unionand Integral for sponsoring newteam gear for both senior teamsthis year, and also other localcompanies who continue theirassociation with club in variousways, including Duleek CarCommercial Services, OmniSigns, Drogheda, Nest PropertySolutions, Campus Oil, F.BGroup, St Margaret’s C.S.C, andThe Carranstown Lodge.

David Hallinan Cancer Support Classic

Fergus Hallinan, Eóin Hallinan, Ollie J Rickard and Brendan Sharkey

Approximately €5,500 was raised at the recent David Hallinan Cancer SupportClassic which took place in Bellewstown Golf Club. David was club ViceCaptain in 2011 when he passed away from cancer. Funds raised on the daywent to the Gary Kelly centre and Drogheda Hospice, and are still coming in.The winning team comprised David Purcell, Barry Kresh and Paul Sullivan.

Bellewstown Pitch and Putt Presentation Night

Winner of the Captain's Prize Josie Greenebeing presented with her prize by Mon Byrne

Captain's NightPresentations forBellewstown Pitch &Putt club was afantastic night in TheLoft at BellewstownInn . There was dinner,presentations, dancing(some singing too!) andlots of fun and craic!Winner of the LadyCaptain's Prize wasJosie Greene, andwinner of the GentsCaptain’s Prize wasJim Brannigan

St Patricks GAA Stamullen are holding aGala Celebration & Presentation DinnerDance for their Adult Championship win-ning teams which will take place on Friday19 December in City North hotel. MulledWine reception will be at 7.30pm followedby dinner at 8pm sharp. Live band ‘CoolChicken & The Xmen’ followed by DJ anddancing till late.Tickets are €35 more details on their face-book/twitter. To avoid disappointment earlybooking is essential. Tickets available fromthe club house most evenings. This celebra-tion night is not a black tie event.St Patrick's Gaa Stamullen has launchedtheir own You Tube channel! Yes, now fanscan see many videos uploaded from picturestills with music added. Well done to the

club PRO.https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnXj-FYKLL1-WG92uf5NwqMQYoung Pats Og Gaelic players in Stamullenfinish up their year on November 22, havingput in a great effort throughout the season.Many thanks to John Cullen for overseeingeverything for the year along with his welldrilled team of mentors. Pats Og Christmasparty takes place on 6 December whenSanta Claus will make a visit to the club!

Player of the Year U12Congrats to young St Pat’s player EllenGrant who was recently crowned MeathU12 Player of the Year! As well as playingwell, Ellen is a fantastic ambassador forgirls’ football for both club and county onand off the field.

PellaPella is an indoor version of Gaelic football, and a new facility has recently installed inthe Astro Turf. It can be played as a five-a-side game, in an indoor arena or on an all-weather pitch. Also Pucpella is 5-a-sideindoor hurling, played using the speciallydesigned ‘Pella’ goals and 24 inch hurleyswith a rubber ‘Bas’. For more informationgo to http://www.pella.ie/

St. Pats Sports Shop St. Pats Sports Shop is stocked with clubgear available to purchase as Christmasgifts or stocking fillers. All sizes availablefor both juvenile to senior men to ladies. Formore information and a complete list ofitems with prices contact Myra O’Flahertyin the Club shop.

Bellewstown

Pitch

and Putt

Presentation

NightGents Captain Nigel McQuaile presenting Jim Brannigan with his prizefor winning the Captain's Prize competiton

Young Bellewstown Pitch and Putt stars

Congrats to three rising young star members of Bellewstown Pitch & Putt club, whocompeted at the recent Leinster Juvenile Matchplay. Christopher Woods got throughto the semi-finals and Lucas McKeen and Sean Clerkin got through to the quarter finals.

DuleekBellewstown GFC host Deal or No Deal onSaturday 15 November @ 8.30pm in the BellewstownInn. Tickets are €20 each and up to €5,000 can bewon on the night. You can sponsor a box for €50 orpurchase a ticket. If you cannot be there on the nightyou can nominate a person to play for you or ask theclub to nominate a person. The Bellewstown Inn haskindly sponsored the event .DJ and finger foods onthe night also so please show your support.Duleek Bellewstown GFC Juvenile AGM tTakes placeon Tuesday 18 November at 7.30pm in the club houseon the Navan Road. All welcome. Anyone interestedin coaching or helping with coaching in 2015 shouldattend.Club AGM takes place on Monday 24 November at

8pm in the club house on the Navan Road. This is anopen invitation for all members and friends ofDuleek/Bellewstown GFC to come along and expresstheir views on any aspect of club life.Duleek Bellewstown GFC online Lotto is now set upon the club website page. If you would like to supportthe club lotto please click on the link below and followthe instructions given.http://www.duleek-bellewstown.meath.gaa.ie/Congrats to Duleek Bellewstown GFC’s ReserveLeague team managed by Kenny McDonnell, whichhas just been promoted to Division 1 for 2015 afterbeating Wolfe Tones. Thanks to Kenny’s selectorsJohn Moore, Robbie Moore, John Mooney and Bren-dan Woods. Well done to all involved.

St Mary’s GFC Donore are preparing tender documents for theirnew club house, and any builder that is interested in tenderingis asked to get in touch with any member of the committee withtheir details. St. Mary’s online: check out the clubs website on-http://community.meath.ie/stmarysgfcWell done to all the juvenile teams who played tremendous foot-ball this year. A big shout out to our girls teams who played ex-ceptionally well in their first year as an all-girls team.St Mary’s GFC Donore AGM takes place on Thursday 27 No-vember at 8pm in the Newgrange Lodge.St Mary’s GFC, Donore, Foundation level coaching course takesplace in Newgrange Lodge on Tuesday 4 November 8-10pm,and in Donore school hall on Thursday 6 November 8-10pm.Cost €10. Both nights must be attended to receive cert.Anyonewishing to get involved with coaching next year must completethis course. It is also recommended coaches who want a re-fresher. Great opportunity to attend in a local venue.AGM takes place on Thursday the 27 November 8pm in theNewgrange Lodge. All members are invited to attend.Congrats to St Mary’s GAA club members in Donore who re-cently took part in the GAA Pitch Challenge, visiting all 59 clubpitches in County Meath. The event was organised as afundraiser for Mental Health Ireland. Check it out onYOUTUBE.COM

Dessie Gough and Paddy Joyce pictured withBernard Mohan at the Cushinstown AC awardsnight. Congrats to Athlete of Year Elizabeth Morland,and Most Deserving Athlete, Niall Flanagan

CushinstownAthletic Club

Village Folk have done it again! Thetalented Duleek-based Irishtrad/country/ballad group recentlylaunched their latest CD, ‘TheBlackbird of Slane’.Village Folk comprises Mick Griffinon vocals, guitar, mandolin, andharmonica, Seamus Clinton on vocalsand bodhran, Pat Gogan vocals, guitarand banjo, Elish Quinn on accordion

and Mick Callaghan on flute and tin whistle.Group members have been interviewed and featured on many local radioprogrammes, including LMFM’s mid-morning magazine show withDaire Nelson as well as Aine Carberry’s Sunday night music show. Solisten in to hear some songs off ‘The Blackbird of Slane’ by Village Folk.

OPENING TIMES AND DATES

Fri 28th Nov 2- 8pm Sat 29th Nov 12-8pm Sun 30th Nov 12-8pm

Fri 5th Dec 2-8pm Sat 6th Dec 12-8pm Sun 7th Dec 12-8pm

Thurs 11th Dec 4-8pm Fri 12th Dec 2-8pm Sat 13th Dec 12-8pm Sun 14th Dec 12-8pm

Thurs 18th Dec 4-8pm Fri 19th Dec 2-8pm Sat 20th Dec 12-8pm Sun 21st Dec 2-8pm

!"#$%&'(%)*(#+,&)-)!(.,!"#$%&'(%)/#,,)0(1,%

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE OF CHARGE

It was anemotionalmoment at theVatican onSunday 19October 2014when PopeFrancis cameover to greet Fr John Brogan, the much loved Parish Priest of Kilskyreand Ballinlough, and formerly of Donore.Fr Brogan was a student at the Irish College in Rome during much ofthe pontificate of Pope Paul VI and it was a dream fulfilled for him toattend the Mass when Blessed Paul VI was beatified. The Mass wascelebrated in St Peter’s Square by Pope Francis, who spoke warmlyand encouragingly to Fr Brogan before imparting his blessing uponthe priest who has been coping with illness in recent times.Fr John Brogan is a native of Oldcastle and was ordained from thePontifical Irish College, Rome in 1974. He has served as curate in theparishes of Clonmellon, Moynalty, Slane, Mucklagh and Kilcloon. Hewas appointed parish priest of Donore in 1999. He is now PP inKilskyre & Ballinlough.

Kentstown church fundraiserEnjoy a memorable evening atBallymagarvey Village with theMcDonagh sisters and specialguest, tenor Wesley McDonaghon both the 2 & 3 December insupport of Kentstown ChurchRestoration Fund and Lisa’sChristmas Wish (A Chance forAlice and The Rainbow Club).Tickets cost €25 and are availablefrom Ballymagarvey Village.Contact Jill on 041-9825959 oremail: jill@ballymagarvey.ie

Cardiac table quizDuleek Cardiac First Responserecently raised €1,140 at a tablequiz in the Carranstown Lodge.Thanks to all for for their greatwelcome and support, all oursponsors, and everybody whodonated spot prizes. Special thanksgo to Christy Lynch and his sonGuy who made it a great night.Winners on the night were AngelaGallagher, Claire Bonan, SallyGriffin and Marella Gallagher.

Duleek Community ShopDonations have been made to localgroups by Duleek CommunityShop to St Cianan’s Vincent dePaul conference, Duleek CardiacFirst Response, Duleek & DistrictAthletic Club and Duleek &Bellewstown Active RetirementGroup. Thanks go to all thecustomers for their continuedsupport as this is what makes thesecommunity contributions possible.

Briefs

St Margaret’s Celtic Supporters club in Duleek is running their secondChristmas Food Appeal this month, with a final drop off day on Saturday 6December.Organiser Adrian ‘Hilly’ Hillman hopes to surpass last year’s delivery of aminibus and jeep packed full of food aid to local shelters. ‘This year we aredelivering to Drogheda Homeless Aid and Drogheda Women’s Refuge,which badly need these donations.’‘We are looking for non-perishable food items, socks and toiletries really,’explained Adrian. ‘We’re asking people to put a little extra in their weeklyshopping basket and drop it in to my house (11 Millrace, Duleek) or to bringit along to our massive Food Drop Day on Saturday 6 December atO’Neills, Duleek. There will be music in the lounge that night to say thanksto all who contributed.’According to Adrian, many Celtic supporters’ clubs are extremelycharitable, organising food aid and other activities, thanks to the history ofthe club itself which was established to assist poor and hungry Catholics inGlasgow many years ago. Contact Hilly on Facebook for further details.

Slane Castle Christmas Market takes place inthe Castle grounds on four weekends leading

up to Christmas – Friday 28-Sunday 30November, Friday 5-Sunday 7 December,Thursday 11-Sunday 14 December andThursday 18-Sunday 21 December.A number of traders and craft vendors aretaking part offering some unusual and

festive pieces. Homemade gifts and deliciousfoods will be on sale, as well as pottery, toys,

clothing and seasonal gifts. Christmas trees willalso be on sale. Unique Christmas stockings will be available withdécor vendors providing a bespoke embroidering service! SlaneCastle Irish Whiskey will be partnering up with a local companyto provide gift hampers, and NuMu Bespoke Cakes will bepresent with a range of sweet treats. Food food vendors will beoffering tasty seasonal nibbles such as chocolates, cheeses andchutnesy, and of course the Courtyard Café will be open.Local choirs will provide entertainment, and Santa’s reindeerwill be grazing on the castle grounds. Don’t forget that Santa’sKingdom at Slane Castle will also be open during December.

MEP Mairead McGuin-ness visited Duleek GNSrecently to present threedifferent awards to theschool - Blue Star Flag,Green Flag & DigitalSchools Award.The Blue Star Pro-gramm fosters betterunderstanding throughclassroom projects, ofthe EU and how it af-fects the lives of Irishcitizens. The Green Flagmarks the excellentprogress the school hasmade in environmentalawareness. Over thepast 9 years the schoolhas tackled litter andwaste levels in theschool, and reduced en-ergy and water con-sumption. This is theirthird Green Flag award.The school is now work-ing towards achieving aTravel Flag – ‘glan agusglas in ár dtimpeal-lacht’.The Digital School ofDistinction is aimed atpromoting, recognising and encouraging excellence in the use of technology inprimary schools, and Duleek GNS is one of only 4 schools in Louth and Meathto achieve it! The Board of Management has made massive investment in ICTover the past few years. Teachers and pupils are now using technology in a va-riety of ways in the school. Each class has an interactive whiteboard with internetaccess, accessing a wealth of resources and applications.

Mairead McGuinness pictured with a junior infant

Duleek GNS pupils and staff

Bargains a-plenty were to be had at the annual auctions in aid of DuleekSenior Citizens in the parish centre. Two Sunday afternoons were choc-a-bloc with bids and counter bids for items donated from throughout theparish. Paddy Cudden and Paddy McConnon were busy describing thelots and encouraging those present to bid for them! There was everythingfrom the proverbial needle to an anchor – lamps, blinds, baby items,toys, rugs, pictures, tables, chairs and assorted furniture as well as booksand electrical equipment. All funds raised go towards the annual SeniorCitizens’ Christmas Party on Sunday 21 December. A table quiz willtake place in the Carranstown Lodge on Friday 7 November and a toyauction will take place in The Carranstown Lodge, Duleek, on Saturday15 November at 3pm.

l-r Caroline Duff, Paddy Cudden, Kathleen Cudden, Patrick McConnon, GaryCudden, Paddy McConnan and Shane Cudden

Donore Scout Group had a busy Halloween with a fancy dress partyand some members attending the County Weekend in Carlingford. Welldone to scouts and leaders! The Cubs learned backwood skills, sangcampfire songs and shared some very spooky ghost stories!

Donore Scout camp

Donore Scouts at Halloween Fancy Dress party

Meath County Council & Indaver Community Liaison Committee

Carranstown Community Grant Scheme 2014Meath County Council and the Indaver Community Liaison Committeeinvite applications for grant assistance, under its Carranstown CommunityGrant Scheme 2014, from community groups and organisations in theCarranstown / Duleek and surrounding areas.The scheme is funded by Indaver Ireland Ltd and administered by MeathCounty Council. Funding is available for eligible projects located within the administrativearea of Meath County Council. Examples of projects eligible for funding are:

v Amenity areas v Walking areas,v Community halls and resource centres v Community arts projectsv Playgrounds v Recreational facilities,v Local heritage projects v Parks v Sporting Organisations.

Application FormsApplications Forms and further details on the Carranstown CommunityGrant Scheme are available from Bernadine Carry or Peter Brady,Community Department, Meath County Council, Buvinda House,Johnstown, Navan, Co. Meath (046) 9097410 or 046 9097413 or on lineat [www.meath.ie/community/CommunityInformation/FundingandGrants]

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is Friday 19th December 2014 at 5pm.

Parish Land for RentAll parish land is available to rent through the following agents forCurraha please phone Jimmy Dillon 01-8259154 and Ray White forArdcath 041-983 2638.

A new Craft shop and Co-op has opened in Duleek.Sewndipity Craft is lo-cated in The Maudlinsand is owned and run bybusiness partners Eliza-beth Donnelly and Bar-bara Brennan. Stockingbeautiful handmade gifts,Sewndipity Craft is theperfect spot to begin yourChristmas shopping!With the emphasis onquality, craft and local,the two craftworkers be-lieve that there is a hugedemand for this type ofproduct in the area.‘There really is nothinglike our shop in the re-

gion, where we will stock not only our own handmade craft items that can bepersonalised, but also those made by other local artisans, as well as runningclasses in various craft forms,’ explained Barbara.Craft classes in many forms, such as sewing, knitting, crochet, decoupage, etcwill be run from the brand new premises that has been painted, decorated andfurnished by friends and family! It’s a great boost for the village and generalarea, as there is already huge interest and talent in craft making over the years.Liz is from Duleek and is a Jack of all Trades when it comes to needlework! Shespecialises in making fairies and was the first to introduce the idea of Fairy Doorsin Ireland! She already runs Brambles Country Crafts. Barbara is from Ash-bourne and is also handy with a needle, specialising in Sock Monkeys. Her com-pany is Sew Sparklie. Both had a stand at Duleek Fair Day in August. They alsosell their handmade crafts at many country markets in the region.Although the doors are already open, there is an official opening at 11am on 8November and all are welcome to drop in on the day for the launch party! Comein and enjoy the Sewndipity experience! Follow them on Facebook.

Barbara Brennan and Elizabeth Donnelly

The Charlotte Butler Fund has raised almost €10,000 forChildhood Neuroblastoma Research! Charlotte’s motherAudrey is overwhelmed by the response to the Fund,having lost her daughter some months ago. ‘People havebeen running events big and small and all are reallyappreciated,’ said Audrey. ‘Every fundraiser from the littlebucket down in the post office, to coffee mornings, to thehuge race night up in Bellewstown was much appreciated.’With events still ongoing, Audrey is confident to reach thetarget of €10,000 before making a cheque presentation toneuroblastoma research. ‘Thanks to everybody to raisedfunds or contributed in any way. ‘A special thanks to FrJohn for his continuing support too. Lots of planning,organisation and hard work went into these many events.We really appreciate all this effort and the funding is vital.’The late Charlotte Butler

Curraha hit the tiles big time recently with theirsecond annual Strictly Come Dancing event inThe Pillo Hotel. 10 couples took part this year,with Ciaran Phelan and Orla Gannon claimingthe top prize! It was a huge success followingsuch a high standard from last year, all thedancers and committee worked so hard and itreally paid off. A major thank you to everyonewho supported it on the night and the localcompanies who were very generous towardsthe club yet again.In second place were Ciaran O'Hanrahan and Anne-Marie Plunkett, with Fiona Peel andPeter White coming in third. Judges on the night were former GAA player Barney Rock,Fiona O'Carroll of Mrs. Brown’s Boys, Fiona Toher and Joe Sheridan. Also, a specialmention goes to MC on the night Liam Carroll who never fails to entertain and tochoreographer Aisling Toher who did a super job.Funds raised go towards Curraha’s fantastic new gym at the GAA club, which is now upand running. Although sponsorship money is still being collected and counted,a fantasticamount has been raised that will go to support the health and wellbeing of local residentsfor manyyears to come.Couples who took part were Amy Battersby & Phelim Dowling, Fiona Peel & Peter White,Jessica Downey & Ben Hayes, Claudine Lawlor & Joe Sullivan, Conor Joyce & Fiona Carey,Neil O'Dowd & Niamh Jackson, Ciaran Phelan & Orla Gannon, Ciaran O'Hanrahan & Anne-Marie Plunkett, Chris Bermingham & Kate Dwyer, Ciara McDonnell & Alan McGoldrick.

St Pats Ladies GFC Pre-loved Dress Sale

St Pats Ladies GFC Pre-loved Dress Sale was a fantastic evening, and welldone to the organisers who must have trawled through every drawer andwardrobe in the area! Well done to all involved. A wide assortment ofdresses and other clothing were bought and sold for a song, as well asaccessories and jewellery. Unsold items were then donated to localcharity shops. Wine and strawberries were served on arrival!

Country Dancing Dancing the night away with‘Country Pride Dance Band’proved popular at St PatricksGAA Centre, Stamullen. As be-fore this proved out to be a veryenjoyable social evening for allwho attended.

A Junior Disco for 8-12year oldswas also held in St Pat’s over Hal-loween, proving to be another suc-cess for the club. The eventattracted a lot of the underagechildren for a fun night of dancingand meeting up with their friends.

Congratulations to Lorna Whearty & Phil Roche on the birth of their new baby girl Sienna.Congratulations to Suzanne & Declan Heeney on the birth of their new baby son. Thanks to everyone who donated goods, helped or supported the Hospice Coffee Morningwhich took place in Angel Kierans house recently , which to date has raised €12,000.

About 50 riders both young and not so youngturned out for the recent charity hunt in aid ofBellewstown school. A fabulous day of ridingover beautiful scenic land was delivered andthanks to all the parents and volunteers who gottogether to make this a fabulous event. Afterwards there was a thrilling High HedgeJump competition, where the Junior winnercleared a 1 metre and 70 cm Hedge with the sen-ior rider clearing a whopping 2 metre 10cmhedge. It was such an exciting finish to the dayand fabulous prizes sponsored by Horse First Ltd.Refreshments and great chat took place at the Hill Lounge and presentation ofprizes took place.

Halloween on The HillA Spooky Hill Walk on Bellewstown racecourse was organised by the local Par-ents’ Council at Halloween, preceeded by storytelling by Mrs McGuiness. Drac-ula, the Merry Jester, the Halloween Witch, some playful monsters, ghosts andeven Frankinstein met the 300 people who turned out for the walk along thefirst half of the walk. Then it was across the hill where there was a particularlyspooky discovery of a coffin containing a real live ghost.. though it was actuallyvery friendly !!! The second half of the walk saw the re-appearence of all thestrange Halloween characters again along with a Mad Man trying to cut downthe trees in the dark!!! Everybody rushed back to the hall where there was alovely hot cuppa awaiting and the children all got a little Halloween GoodyBag. This turned out to be a memorable community night where all got to havea chat with neighbours and parents alike. Thanks to all who turned out andhelped out on the night.

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Meath Waste-to-Energy

Phone - 041 982 0738Open Wed - Sat 5pm - 10pm

Sun (and Bank Hol) 12.30pm - 9pm

Now taking bookings for ChristmasSmall and large bookings welcome

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Fresh and Diverse MenuRegularly updated wine list

Craft beersChildrens Menu

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Funerals catered for

NOVEMBERl Friday 7. Duleek Senior CitizensOutings Committee table quiz inCarranstown Lodge. Table of four€40. l Friday 7. 9.30pm. St Mary's pokerclassic in Daly’s of Donore. Adm. €30.l Saturday 8. 8pm. Ardcath StrictlyCome Dancing in the TLT, Droghedain aid of St Vincent’s GFC.l Saturday 8. 11am onwards. Openingof Sewndipity craft shop, TheMaudlins, Duleek.l Tuesday 11. 11am. Navan Library.Bellewstown Heritage Group, FionaAhern, will speak on ‘The Great Warand Meath’ .l Tuesday 11. 8pm. North EastSugarcraft Guild meets on the secondTuesday of every month in the BoyneValley Hotel.l Tuesday 11. 7pm. Duleek Revivalmeeting to organise St Patrick’s DayParade 2015. County Council offices,Duleek.l Tuesday 11. 9pm. Poker Classic forScoil Naomh Cianain, Cushinstown inThe Snailbox Lounge.l Saturday 15. 2pm. Children’sboxing show in St Cianan’s boxingclub, Duleek.l Saturday 15. 8.30pm Deal or NoDeal fundraiser in Bellewstown Inn.Tickets €20.l Saturday 15. 3pm. Toy auction inCarranstown Lodge in aid of DuleekSenior Citizens’ Christmas Party.Contact Paddy McConnon 087-2782925 or Paddy Cudden086-2570441l Tuesday 18. 7.30pm. DuleekBellewstown GFC Juvenile AGM.l Friday 21. 8.30pm. Ardcath MacraClub Fundraiser ‘UBET’ Night inBennett’s Pub, Ardcath. €10 entry. Monday 24. 8pm. Duleek BellewstownGFC AGM.l Wednesday 26. 7pm. Aninformation night on mortgages inO’Neill’s of Duleek.l Thursday 27. 8pm. St Mary’s GFCAGM in the Newgrange Lodge,Donore.l Friday 28. 7pm. Duleek AC’s annualAwards Night in The Snail Box,Kilmoon. l Friday 28. 9pm. Country PrideDance Night in St Pat’s GFCStamullen. Adm €7.50l Saturday 29. 8am-8pm. Day ofaction against water charges onDuleek Village Green.l Saturday 29. 7.30-10pm. JuvenileDisco 8/12 yrs. St Pat’s GFC

Stamullen. Adm €5.DECEMBER

l Slane Castle Christmas Market onfour weekends leading up toChristmas – Friday 28-Sunday 30November, Friday 5-Sunday 7December, Thursday 11-Sunday 14December and Thursday 18-Sunday21 December.l 2 & 3 December .Musical eveningwith the McDonagh sisters and specialguest, tenor Wesley McDonagh inBallymagarvey Village in support ofKentstown Church Restoration Fundand Lisa’s Christmas Wish.l Saturday 6. St Margaret’s CSCChristmas Food Appeal food drop atO’Neill’s of Duleek.l Sunday 7. Car Boot Sale at Sage &Stone Duleek.l Friday 19. St Patricks GaaStamullen Gala Celebration &Presentation Dinner in City North.l Sunday 21. Anual Duleek SeniorCitizens’ Christmas Party

ONGOING EVENTSl New knitting & crochet group meetson Thursday mornings in Sonairtefrom 10.30-12. Call Eileen on 086-7347789 or Margaret on 086-8093711.l Duleek Toddler Group Wednesdays10am-12noon in Duleek parish centreduring school term. To book 086-8818587 / 086-8483844/ 087-1208038.l Pilates classes in Bellewstown Hallevery Tuesday & Thursday 7- 8pm.Costs €7 per hour.l Wednesday afternoon club in TheOld Post Cafe, Main Street, Duleekevery Wednesday 2.30pm – 4.00pm.Relax, swap stories and make friends.Super Scone and Tea/Coffee €5.00.l Bowling in Duleek Parish Centreevery Tuesday at 2.30pm. Otheractivities with Active Retirement in theCentre on the 3rd Wednesday of themonth at 2.30pm. l Whist Drive in Bennet’s Lounge,Ardcath, at 8.30pm Monday night.l Duleek Women’s Forum meetsevery Tuesday from 10.30am to 12noon in Duleek Prayer Rooms.l Kenpo karate classes in DuleekParish centre on Wednesday andFriday nights.l A no-cost 5k run takes place everySaturday morning in OldbridgeEstate, Donore, at 9.30am.l Duleek AC Fit4Youth (12-16yrs) isin the Lourdes Track, DroghedaMondays 8-9pm. Information Mariaat 086-3361849 or marial@duleekac.ie l Soccer Club Academy catering for 4- 7 year olds Sunday morning on the

Astro Pitch at Carranstown, Duleek11am-12 noon.l Stamullen Tidy Towns meet 11am-12 every Saturday. Volunteers needed.l Craft classes for creative childrenaged 3-12 take place in Tobersuil CraftCentre on Mondays 4-5.30. Irishdancing on Tuesdays 5.15-6.15pm. Ann087-6698428.l Cushinstown Athletic Club Under9s training every Thursday. Adult FitFor Life with Nicola Leech Wednesday7pm.l Julianstown Golden Girls meet inThe Parish Rooms, Stamullen everyMonday morning 11am.l Kick boxing classes for children inJulianstown Community CentreWednesday and Friday 7- 8pm.Stephen 087-1186750.l Stamullen Bowls Club meets everyTuesday and Thursday 8-10pm in St.Patrick’s Centre in Stamullen. l St Mary’s Baton Twirlers arerecruiting new members. TrainingWednesday 6-8pm in St Pats GAASports Hall, Stamullen. Open tochildren aged from 4 upwards.Contact 086-3270636.l Yoga classes Tuesday mornings at10.30am in Julianstown, ParishRooms. Margaret on 087-6948715l Julianstown Foroige Youth Clubmeets in Parish Rooms Friday 7.30-9pm. Contact 085-1950889.l Bingo every Thursday inBellewstown Inn at 9.30pm.l Irish dance classes in BellewstownHall Wednesday 4.30pm. Girls andboys from four years of age welcome.Orla Nic Conuladh 086-3619169l Duleek Bridge club meets at 8pmevery Wednesday in CarranstownLodgel Irish dancing is alive and well inthis area – Duleek classes take place onMondays with the Wynne School ofIrish Dancing at 7pm; on Tuesdayswith the Campbell Academy of IrishDancing from 6-7 (Wed 5-6 in Donore)and with the Corrigan White school ofIrish dancing on Wednesdays at5.45pm.l Ballet for the little ones (aged 2 ½ -6 years) in Duleek on Mondays.Contact 087-7192545.l Glee Club for singing and dancingtakes place in Duleek on Saturdays10.30-12 (Kentstown Wed 4-5.30)l Lego Club takes place in Duleekparish hall on Mondays from 3-4 and4-5pm. Contact Rebecca on 087-1341736. every Wednesday inCarranstown Lodge.