CHURCH LANE, DULEEK, CO. MEATH.CHURCH LANE, DULEEK, CO. MEATH.CHURCH LANE, DULEEK, CO. MEATH.

RESTAURANT

InSpired Fridays dine out for less

Meath County Council has given thego ahead for a dynamic new facilityat Platin, including a brewery, dis-tillery and visitor centre at the for-mer McCabe’s Toyota Garage withplans to be in production in a matterof weeks!Harvest Distilling and Brewing wererecently granted planning permis-sion for a change of use for the for-mer car showroom into the newdistillery and brewery. The applica-tion was lodged in November lastand planning was granted on 21January 2015.Already the transformation is wellunderway, with a brewery, distillery,visitor centre, canning and bottlinglines, a whiskey filling area, barrelstorage, associated offices and a lab-oratory being developed. Futureplans include a restaurant and retailarea, tasting rooms, kitchen and of-fices. The main building will includea function room on the first floor anda roof garden on the second floorlevel, as well as a warehouse and stor-age tanks and silos outside.‘We hope to be brewing craft beer byMay and distilling whiskey and gin bythe end of the Summer,’ outlined Sal-llyanne Cooney. ‘Our brewery is inplace and we will be starting to com-mission in March/April. We have 3large copper pot stills and a smallBennett still for gin arriving in theSpring which will be a real eyecatcher once they are positioned inthe front window of our distillery.’The Café and Visitor centre areplanned to open for early/mid 2016 ,offering a unique opportunity to havea guided tour and tasting in a work-

ing distillery and brewery and also toenjoy local and seasonal food anddrink in the café. A small shop on sitewill retail Harvest Distilling productsand related items..Harvest Distilling and Brewing Lim-ited was set up on 25 February 2014in Co. Meath. The company's currentdirectors are, Patrick Joseph SnrCooney, Peter Cooney and PatrickJoseph Cooney, and they are directorsof a number of other Irish companiesbetween them. Pat Cooney is theManaging Director of Harvest Distill-ing and Brewing Ltd and was bornand reared in Drogheda .The Cooney’s best known company,perhaps, is Tipperary Natural Min-eral Water, now part of GleesonGroup, an Irish-owned multinationalcompany. It was founded in 1986 byNicholas and Patrick Cooney. In

1987, it was the first Irish bottledwater to qualify for the EuropeanUnion's Natural Mineral Water sta-tus. It is now exported to 12 marketsand has won the British Bottlers In-stitute gold medal award a number oftimes It has 15% market share in Ire-land, and employs over 700 people inIreland.This project will employ upwards of30 people when fully operational andduring construction and their aim isto source this talent locally to join ourteam where possible.The new facility has been welcomedby Cllr Sharon Keogan, who said,‘This new brewery will breathe newlife into the area and we look forwardto having more local jobs created tokeep our community vibrant andalive in this area. Best of luck to thenew brewery and distillery!’

F The new distillery and brewery premises at Platin

A young Dundalk woman, LeoniWalsh (27) lost her life in Janu-ary following a road traffic acci-dent at Plattin, near the entranceto Irish Cement. She was pro-nounced dead at the scene afterthe Toyota Avensis she was trav-

elling in crashed head on with alorry carrying 30 tonnes of steel.There were four occupants in thecar, two males and two females.Gardai are appealing for wit-nesses to contact them at anyGarda Station.

RIP Leoni Walsh

Art in London & DublinStamullen artist Niall Leavy is currently showing his work as part of the inaugural LondonIrish Art 2015 in Westminister, London. The exhibition was opened in mid-January by Min-ister for the Diaspora, Jimmy Deenihan TD and Ambassador of Ireland, Dan Mulhall. Irishartist Hughie O’Donoghue spoke at the launch also.Featuring the best of Irish art, the exhibition includes work by over 40 artists – Louis le Broc-quy, Robert Ballagh, Kingerlee, Francis O’Toole and Kyle Barnes, as well as two pieces bydancer Michael Flatley.Niall is one of 100 artists selected to paint a pig for the Jack & Jill Foundation’s ‘Pigs on Pa-rade’. Each artist will paint and decorate a life sized fibreglass pig which then goes on displayin Dublin city from January – March. All pigs can be sponsored or purchased towards charityfunds.

At Your Leisure Active Retirement groupAt Your Leisure active retirement group for those over 55 years of age, meets in The PheasantPub, Duleek Street, Drogheda, every Tuesday morning at 11.30am, with tea/coffee and treatson arrival. There’s an hour and a half activity programme followed by a two course lunchcosting €10. The group also organises monthly day trips, eg swimming and gym sessions.Further information from Diane on 087-1341556.

Duleek Active Retirement AssociationDuleek Active Retirement Association holds their AGM on Wednesday 11 February at 2.30pmin Duleek Parish Centre. New members welcome. Annual membership costs €20. The pastyear was very successful with bowling, outings and other general activities.

Duleek Meals on WheelsDuleek Meals on Wheels would like to thank the Golf Society for their kind donation followinga fundraising event, and also thank Ray Cassin of Duleek AC for donating money raised lastyear.

Cystic Fibrosis WalkCystic Fibrosis Ireland holds the 2015 Paddy Kierans Memorial Walk in Montenegro from27 September – 4 October. All are welcome to take part and assist towards the funding ofresearch for a cure for CF and for the general provision of support to persons with CF. CysticFibrosis is Ireland’s most common life-threatening inherited disease. Approximately 1 in 19people are carriers of the CF gene, and where tow carriers parent a child together, there isa 1 in 4 chance of the baby being born with CF. All funds raised on the annual CF walk goto CF Ireland. Mary Duff, local Meath superstar singer, is a patron of the charity, and hastaken part in a number of international walks. Local elected representative and Donore res-ident, Cllr Frank Godfrey, is a staunch supporter and undertakes the Paddy Kierans walkannually. Further information from CF Ireland on 1890 311211.

Dates for you Diary:25 February : Confirmation St Mary's Church Ardcath 11.00am. 10 March: First ConfessionSt John the Baptist Church Clonalvy 7.30pm. 11 March: First Confession St Andrew'sChurch Curraha 7.30pm. 12 March: First Confession St Mary's Church Ardcath 7.30pm

Duleek Development Association LtdDuleek Development Association Ltd hire out the Parish Hall on behalf of the Parish. A num-ber of time slots are available. Enquiries call Janet or Frank at 041 9880269 for availability.

Faulty Towers the DiningExperience' at City NorthHotel on 22 March,promises to be a bundleof laughs! An unofficialtribute to John Cleese'slegendary '70s sitcom,this interactive dinner-show captures the pro-gramme's spiritfantastically.Basil, Sybil, Polly andManuel will greet theguests in the bar pre-meal, and will then act aswaiting staff, wanderingbetween tables, interact-ing with guests, and per-

forming longer set-pieces between courses which loosely recreate classic scenesfrom the series – pet rat, fire drill, goose-stepping etc. They will involve eachguest but never humiliate them.As well as a fantastic 3-course meal in City North, diners will enjoy an amazinglive show in intimate surroundings. Tickets, priced at €49pp are already sellingwell, so the message is – book early!

A cluster of four people from Duleek (and possibly six) have a rare andterrifying disease called Guillain Barré Sydrome that affects 50-100people in Ireland every year.The cluster was highlighted by the The Louth Meath Health &Environment Team, including Michael O'Dowd, Pat O'Brien and Ken OHeiligh who have met with the HSE Public Health Department.The four confirmed cases of GBS syndrome occurred in Duleek between2010 and 2014. All are male. The incidence should be about 1 case forevery 80,000 to 100,000 people. The population of Duleek is circa 5,000.Whilst four cases have been confirmed, two further cases of anautoimmune syndrome with symptoms similar to GBS have beenidentified in Duleek. The Environment Team will now carry out amapping exercise of domicile locations and the surrounding environment.Two of those suffering with GBS recently appeared on UTV Ireland.James Levin and Anthony Mullen both confirmed the sudden onset ofthe condition. Both deteriorated rapidly needing a lengthy stay in hospitalfollowed by rehabilitation.James Levin, 40, was diagnosed in 2014. ‘ I started getting a weakness inmy feet. It progressed up my legs. I began to experience extreme pain. Iwent into hospital and they sent me home. That went on for two weeksand accelerated from there. Then I got blurred vision, and double vision.One side of my face began to drop down and I had the appearance ofhaving had a stroke.’James became paralysed for a number of weeks, which was frightening.‘You’re locked into your own mind. I was completely paralysed. Icouldn't move,’ he said.Anthony Mullen, 54, was diagnosed in 2013. ‘The days leading up to itwere normal. I was out on Saturday. I was a bit cold, that's it. I went tobed on Sunday night. When I got up on Monday morning, I fell to myknees. I couldn’t get back up. I didn't feel sick or feverish; my legs justwouldn't work. It was frightening. I had my full senses but couldn'tmove.’There is no known cause, though it is possible to make a full recoveryafter extended hospital stays and therapy. Some people will experiencelong-term complications – loss of sensation, balance problems, muscleweakness and extreme fatigue.

Duleek & District Athletic ClubCircuit training every Tuesday for club members in the parish hall from 9pmto 10pm .. Only €3 !! New members and old members Come on down all youneed is a yoga Matt and plenty of water so get down there!

Community Walks‘Community Walks’ approx 4km are organised every Sunday during the eightweeks of Operation Transformation, from Duleek Village Green. The walksare open to the whole community. You do not have to be doing OperationTransformation to take part! Children, bicycles, pets, buggies all welcome!

Community ShopDuleek Community Shop donated a total of €17,000 from Jan. to Dec. of 2014to: Boyne Fisherman’s River Rescue, Duleek Foroige, The Georgina & AmberFund, Charlotte Butler Fund, Jack & Jill Foundation, St. Vincent de Paul,Duleek Cardiac First Response, Duleek & Bellewstown Active Retirement As-sociation, Duleek Development Association Christmas Raffle, Limetree The-atre Group, Duleek Parish, Duleek Senior Citizens, Duleek CourthouseDevelopment, Duleek Parish Community Development. The new openinghours for the Community Shop on Saturdays going forward are 11am to 3pm.

Guide Dogs PokerThe annual Maureen Andrews Poker Classic in aid of the Irish Guide Dogswill take place on Friday 6 February in Whyte’s of Stamullen. Tickets cost€25 and you can ring Maureen at 041 9829192 to book . Also if you have anyunwanted gifts you could donate them for the raffle.

Want to get involved in your Community in 2015 ? Why not go along to the next Duleek Revival Programme Meeting and see foryourself the great work being done by this group. The next meeting wil takeplace on Tuesday 12 February. Volunteers are always welcome.

Pancake Tuesday for HospiceEast Meath Hospice Association holds its annual Pancake Morning inCityNorth Hotel on Shrove Tues., 17 Feb. 10am – 12pm. Adm: €5. Enjoy pan-cakes, tea or coffee and a chat with friends. Bag a bargain from the many stallsselling home baking, plants, arts & crafts, books, bags, shoes, etc. Raffles withfantastic prizes. Committee members will be on hand with information on serv-ices provided by East Meath Hospice. All money raised locally is spent locally.

Meals On WheelsDuleek Meals on Wheels would like to thank the Golf Society for their kinddonation following a fundraising event and Ray Cassin to Duleek Athletic As-sociation for donating money raised last year.

Duleek Courthouse Restora-tion Committee is workingagainst the clock to finishwork on the historic court-house building ahead of theplanned Presidential visit toDuleek early this summer –and are seeking €90,000 tocomplete it!Already the group, formedin 2010 as a sub-committeeof Duleek Development As-sociation, has successfullycompleted Phase 1 of thesubstantial restoration workon the Protected Building.This included internal strip-ping and demolition workand restoration of the exist-ing windows, some of whichwere broken and some rot-ten. The old sand and ce-ment render has beenremoved, and a fire escapestairs has been installed.Keeping it local, work was

carried out by RailviewConstruction, Rathdrinagh.Currently local plumberDavid Crosby is first fixingheating and plumbing,whilst local electrician De-clan Foran is first fixingelectrical and data.Having started with nomoney in the bank, thegroup of Frank Andrews,Ann Finger, Noel Heeney,Cllr Sharon Keogan, archi-tect Keith Ludlow, LizLynch, Sally Griffin andLorraine Cunningham, firstraised €25,000 to beginwork. They were delightedto receive €50,000 in the In-daver grants last year, withan additional €18,000 tofollow. They have appliedfor funding to continue withPhase 2 works, which in-clude second fixings, floor-ing and decorating, costing

an estimated €90,000.Uses for the restored build-ing will centre around com-munity needs. It includesmeeting rooms, rehearsaland exhibition space, galleryarea, intimate performancespace, and will be multi-functional, according to ar-chitect Keith Ludlow. ‘Wewant people to drop in andsee this marvellous buildingas it’s nearing completion,’he said. ‘We also need thecommunity to get behindthis massive fundraisingdrive to push the project toits conclusion as it’s forcommunity use. We reallywant it ready to accommo-date the visit of PresidentMichael Higgins to Duleekearly this summer. So let’sall progress Duleek Court-house Restoration and see itfinished this summer!’

Fat-loss classesFatloss class takes place on Monday from 8.30-9pm, in Stamullen parish hall. It’s suitable forall fitness levels and is a half hour of conditioning. Cost €7. Bring towel and water. Pilates forweightloss and all-over body toning, is in Stamullen parish hall, 7-8pm, for beginners and im-provers. Cost €9. Mats provided. Bring a large towel and water. Pilates by Denise says, “A fewpoints to fatloss and permanently, is firstly willpower, secondly diet is 80% or maybe even more,and then exercise, the correct type. There are no secrets to loosing fat it's just called effort.”

Book successThe recently published, ‘Battle of Julianstown’ book has been sold out - a great result for Stamullenhistorian Brendan Matthews. It is hoped to have a new print available at the end of February atDrogheda Museum Shop at Millmount Drogheda.

Duleek RevivalThe next Duleek Revival Meeting takes place on Thurs 12th February at 7pm in Meath Co. Co.,One Stop Shop, Duleek .Volunteers are always welcome. Congrats on all the work carried outrecently by Tus worker.

Calls to repair roadCalls have been made to repair the roads from Donore to Drogheda ahead of the2015 Rás na hÉireann when it passes through the area in May. Cllr Eimear Fergu-son requested the works at a recent Area meeting in Duleek. Engineer Jim Colwellsaid that he would look into the matter as the Road Works Programme only com-mences in May and he doesn’t want to carry out roadworks so close to the Rás.

Stamullen Parish Fundraising CommitteeStamullen Parish Fundraising Committee are running a 10 week draw with thefirst draw taking place on Sunday February 15. Anybody who wishes to becomeinvolved or wants to be a promoter should contact the Parish Office on 01-8412647.

Concert in aid of the Alzheimer’s unit Building FundA concert in aid of the Alzheimer’s unit Building Fund takes place in St Mary’s Church,Drogheda, on Friday 13 February at 8pm. Performing are Drogheda Male Voice Choir,Mornington Gospel Choir, Tredagh Singers, Amy Dyer and Drogheda Comhaltas.

Shave-athonDuleek Senior Citizens outings committee are holding a fundraising Shave-athonstarting on February 1 and running until 10 April when all the beards will beshaved off. The Shaving Ceremony will take place in Carranstown Lodge at 9pm.So come on lads and get those bristles growing! Funds raised will go towards theseniors’ outings. Further details and sponsorship cards available from Paddy Cud-den on 098-2570441 or Paddy McConnon on 097-2782925.

Free English classesFree English classes for migrant women take place in Duleek under the REACH proj-ect. This programme enables access to mainstream education, training and employ-ment opportunities. English for Work gives information on language and employmentsupports, career planning, etc. The course is free and lasts 15 weeks, starting in Feb-ruary 2015. For information and registration, contact Sharon on 041-9880523.

Pop Up Art!The Seamus Ennis centre in The Naul is hosting a Pop-Up Art Exhibition Fund-raisertowards the refurbishment of St. Canices Church, Damastown, Naul, Co. DublinGrand Opening at 3pm Saturday 28 February All welcome! A raffle will also be held.

Bellewstown Heritage Group TripBellewstown Heritage Group is organising a coach trip to visit the battle-fields of Ypresand the Somme and the cemeteries in France and Flanders where local men are buried.Details: Fiona Ahern, Bellewstown 087-9738736 email: ahern-fiona@yahoo.ie

A Bellewstown family iscelebrating the provisionof a drug that will im-prove the daily life ofPNH sufferer, John Dug-gan. John and his wifeAileen have welcomedthe HSE’s decision tofund a lifesaving drugwhich they had refusedhim on cost grounds – itcosts over €400,000pa.John (33) was diagnosedwith the ultra-rare andlife threatening blooddisorder ParoxysmalNocturnal Haemoglo-binuria (PNH) in2008/9. This conditioncauses the destruction ofthe blood cells leading toanaemia, fatigue, musclepains and a high risk ofkidney failure and blood

clots (risk of heart at-tack, stroke, and othersevere medical prob-lems), with a third of pa-tients dying within fiveyears.In 2012 John was pre-scribed the drug Soliriswhich would allow Johnlive a relatively normallife, free from the needfor regular blood trans-fusions, taking dailymedication and the per-sistent risk of having ablood clot which couldstrike at any time. Withit, his quality of lifecould be improved fivetimes. Three years laterJohn had never actuallyreceived Soliris, whilst10 other people with thecondition in Ireland had.

John only went public atChristmas after fightingfor access to the drugprivately. Due to pres-sure from an on-line pe-tition and constantlobbying from local TDHelen McEntee, theGovernment and HSEagreed to provide thelife-saving drug for anumber of other suffer-ers.Speaking to LMFM,John said, ‘Helen McEn-tee rang me with thenews. It’s life changing!I’m shocked and de-lighted.’ Although thedrug has been sanc-tioned for John’s use, hehas no date as to whentreatment starts (at timeof print).

Hire out the Parish HallDuleek Development Association Ltd hires out the Parish Hall on behalf of the Parish. Anumber of time slots are available. Call Janet or Frank at 041 9880269 for availability.

Green CommunitiesDuncan Stewart of ‘Eco Eye’ is promoting the ‘Get-Involved’ project which encouragescommunity groups engaged in various local eco-projects that produce local renewable fuel,develop natural habitats or develop eco-tourism in their area, grow local ‘green business’or create green enterprises to sign up and be recognised. Awards for last year’s work willbe presented in February, and judges will again be assessing projects during the year. Infoon www.earthhorizon.ie

Slane History & Archaeology SocietySlane History & Archaeology Society will host a lecture on the Slane Coalpits by TomFrench, historian Navan Library, in the Conyngham Arms Hotel, Slane, on Wednesday18 February at 8pm. All welcome.

Active RetirementDuleek & Bellewstown Active Retirement Association will hold their Annual GeneralMeeting on Wednesday 11 February at 2.30pm in Duleek Parish Centre. New membersare especially welcome. Membership for the year is a modest €20 including insurance.The past year was very successful with bowling, outings and general activities. The asso-ciation wishes to especially thank Duleek Community Shop, Ray Cassin, Marathon Run-ner extraordinaire for their kind donations during 2014 and also member ChristieFaulkner for his hard work in ticket selling.

Puddenhill Activity CentreDon't forget our PARENT & TODDLER morning on Thursdays @ 10:30am! Free teafor parents and juice for the children! Fun morning ahead with Soft Play + arts & crafts!!€5 per child, €3 for additional children.

St. Cianan's N.S.Scoil Naomh Cianain (St. Cianan's N.S.) Cushinstown are now accepting enrolments forSeptember 2015 and subsequent years. Please ring Brenda on 01-8354215 or 085 7085818.

Clonalvy N.S. The Board of Management of Clonalvy NS wishes to offer a classroom for the purpose ofproviding a pre-school facility. Anyone interested in setting up and running a pre-schoolis asked to contact the school on 01 8354828 or to email atclonalvyns.ias@eircom.net.

The Spire RestaurantFor those of you celebrating your child's communion or confirmation this year. Checkout our special menu available online now.http://www.thespirerestaurant.ie/communion-menu/4588037611

Left: James Finnerty, withCormac Grendon, Skryne GFCUnderage Chairman, parents

Sheila and Padraig Finnerty andGina Doherty, Skryne GFC

Underage SecretarySkryne GFC and the U16 Squadpresent James Finnerty with a

Skryne jersey as a mark ofthanks for his commitment tothe club at all levels over the

years. James was congratulatedon signing his contract with

Aston Villa, and Skryne GFCUnderage Chairman Cormac

Grendon wished James everysuccess in the future.

There was a good turnout for therecent underage boys presenta-tions at Skryne GFC. It has beena remarkable year, and sincerethanks to Mick O'Dowd, TrevorGiles and Paddy O'Rourke whojoined the underage managersand mentors to present theyoungsters with their medals andcertificates.Thanks also to the parents whobrought along sandwiches, bunsand biscuits for the presentation,and for events throughout theyear. Finally well done onceagain to the young players, theirmanagers and mentors involvedat all levels from U6 to Minor.The future is bright at SkryneGFC. Roll on 2015!

Skryne Minors, winners of the 2014 Division 2 Minor Football League, withPaddy O'Rourke ( Meath senior panel), Mick O'Dowd (Meath SeniorManager) and Des Finnerty (Skryne Minor Manager), Trevor Giles andSeamus Clarke

Airtricity trophyin KentstownThe Airtricity Premier League trophy wasrecently on view at the Kentstown RoversClubhouse whilst Under Age players gottheir photo IDs processed with theNECSL.Kentstown’s Noel Walsh, part of the Dun-dalk Management team and Rovers’Under 12's manager, brought it along toshow the Under Age players what theycould aspire to! There certainly was greatexcitement on the night.

‘Know your Club -Family Quiz’To mark the start of the 2015 season StMary’s GFC is running a ‘Know your Club- Family Quiz’ on Facebook. Get the wholefamily involved and find the answers! Maythe best ‘Family’ win. Prize is a family mealin Katie’s Kitchen at The Thatch, DonoreRoad, Drogheda to the value of €50.

Balrath FCA massive fundraiser for Balrath FC iscurrently underway in Kentstown, with adraw taking place in Maguires, Kentstownas well as a Table Quiz. There was music,and of course, the raffle, as well as lots offun and craic! Was the Balrath version ofYMCA actually performed? All fundsraised are in aid of the soccer club.Congrats to Balrath Under 9s who havehad a terrific winning streak lately! Theyenjoyed a celebratory meal in McDonalds!

Duleek Soccer ClubALL Weather Pitches are available for team slots on Wednesdays 9 -10 and Fridays 8 -9 and 9-10. Weekends on request. Club meetingroom, seats 60 people approx, available for hire, free secured carparking, Central heated, reasonable rates apply, Club training con-tinues every Tuesday and Thursday Nights at club grounds, starts8pm to Finish usually 9/30 approx, New members welcome at alltimes, Senior club has 2 teams within Meath And District League,First Team in Premier Div Sunday, and Second Team in Premier Re-serve Saturday. Schoolboys / Girls have 16 teams in both Drogheda

Schoolboys/Girls league and North Co Dublin schoolboys league.Duleek Soccer Club would like to thank Duleek Credit Union AndIntegral for sponsoring new team gear for both senior teams this year,and also to other local companies who continue their association withthe club in various ways, including Duleek Car Commercial Services,Omni Signs, Drogheda, Nest Property Solutions, Campus Oil, F.BGroup, St Margartes C/S/C, Carranstown Lodge. Club is alwaysseeking new sponsors and have a variety of incentives available toanyone who may like to get involved, in any particular way.

Trim 10 miles R&R

Trim’ Bewley’s 10 mile race attracted over 750 athletes from all over Le-inster and further afield, including 26 members of Duleek & District AC.The Duleek contingent acquitted themselves brilliantly with a numberof athletes taking on the distance for the first time. There were numerouspersonal bests achieved. Storming performances from Susan Walsh,Niall Doyle and Sarah McKenna to name but a few. Special mention toogoes to Deborah O’Sullivan who represented the club at two differentraces in two different provinces over the weekend.Commenting on the club performance head coach Ray Cassin said,‘With some members running the distance for the first time this will givethem great confidence going into the peak of their training over the nextthree weeks as they work towards the Meath half marathon.’

Trim 10mile road race

Youths Winners 2014 played in Ashbourne House Hotel, AshbourneL - R, Sean Moss, Comm, Niall Barry, Big Toms, Duleek, Singles Winner,Keane Barry, [Son] Youths Winner, Paul Mc Carthy,

Singles Competition will be held in Westcourt Hote,l Drogheda on Sunday 22February, starting 2pm sharp. Doubles event will also be held in same venueon Sunday 8 March also 2pm start. Entry Fee €10 per player and all entriesfor singles must be in with league secretary by Thursday 19t February, 8.30at the latest, when draw will be completed for singles event in CarranstownLodge, Duleek. League 3is also listed for Sunday 14 April, further details later. League 40th Anniversary will take place on Saturday 27 June 2015 in West-court Hotel in Drogheda. €10 admission, includes buffet, various presenta-tions, and disco. Limited to max 200, Admission by ticket only, Special drawfor clubs booking tables of 10.League strongly advises all clubs intending going to this function to avail oftheir tickets early, as a big demand is anticipated. Further info rewww.duleekdarts.com

Kentstown athlete Stephen Lynch was congratulated for his achievements in the 2014Irish Special Olympics, when he brought home two gold medals for swimming, at afundraising function in Maguire’s Bar&Lounge, Kentstown. Overall €2,535 wasraised, which go to Leinster Special Olympics and the 2015 competitors.Stephen’s proud brother Mickey Lynch started the ball rolling, and the whole Lynchfamily rowed most generously. It was a night for the family to feel proud of Stephen’sachievements, and the locals certainly showed their appreciation of this medal-win-ning local athlete.David Hosie, Chairman of Seneschalstown GFC presented Stephen with his two goldmedals & this was particulartly poignant as David is Stephens brother in law, a proudmoment for them both and indeed the whole family.The support of a few people in particular was noted, namely Caolac Monaghan forhis contribution and staff at Maguires Bar&Lounge, The Furrygilberts Rockband fortheir amazing music on the night, as well as local dj Ruairi Coogan, with talentedyoung performer Eoghan Lynch ho perormed a half hour slot kicking the night off..Sponsors of the night included Copper & Spicers, Murtagh Meats, ACINK Tattoo,River Island, Flower Hill Furniture, Maguire’s darts team, William Murphy and oth-ers. Congrats to organiser Lorraine Melia and her team who made such a success ofthe event.

Above (L-R): The Lynch Family, Stephen with proud parents Martin & Barbara,Mickey Lynch & Stephen Lynch (brothers), David Hosie (ChairmanSeneschalstown GFC) Martin Lynch, Stephen Lynch & Barbara Lynch

Skryne GFC / Tara AC StrictlyCome Dancing fundraiserThe recent Skryne GFC / Tara AC Strictly Come Dancing fundraiserin The Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim, was a brilliant night, enjoyed byover 1,150 who turned up to watch.The competition was fierce between the couples who had spentmonths practicing and perfecting their dance moves, with HarryRooney and Eva Tuite eventually being deemed winners, and theycertainly had the moves! There was salsa, jive, chacha and more dis-played on stage by this combination of athletes and Gaelic players!This was the first time that Strictly had been done in Skryne, andby all accounts, participants really enjoyed themselves! Thanks goto Melanie who choreographed all the dance moves, and to HughMcNelis and Senan who took lots of photos throughout and even cre-ated videos. .Thanks also all those who sponsored the dancers forthe Strictly – it is much appreciated.Those who took were Michelle Nolan & Sean O'Regan, Ciara Swan& Dirk Reuter, Majella Carty & Gerry Kennedy, Declan Browne&Cathleen Rogan, Niamh O'Brien & Neil Burke, Grace Creighton& Ronan McCabe, Alisha Naughton & Paddy O'Rourke, Jackie &Noel Russell, Ruth Moore & Donie Ryan, Eva Tuite & HarryRooney, Marian O'Leary & Pat McGovern, Nora & John Lynch,Caren Smyth & Dave Conway, Gail Kinsella & Trevor Giles, JaneSwan & Eddie McManus, Laura Campion & Rowan Dardis, RosieClarke & Ian Gilette, Orla Craigie & Conor O'Brien, Nichola Moss& Shane McEnroy, Madonna Purcell & Brian Cheshire, MegaO'Brien & Adam O'Sullivan.Best Regards

Pics courtesy of:

Hugh McNelis

@ Tarasports.com

Bellewstown P&P AGMBellewstown P & P Club’s recent AGM saw a number of new faces onthe top table. Chairman Martin Branigan and treasurer Martin Floodbowed out after long service to the club. Votes of thanks were expressedto both for all their hard work. The following were elected for the comingyear:Hon. Presidents: Maureen Andrews, Pat Brannigan and Tommy ArnoldLady Captain for 2015 is Chrissie Travers. Gents Captain for 2015 isJohn Byrne Jnr.Chairman Frank Andrews, Vice-chair Maureen Andrews, SecretaryColin Byrne, Treasurer Colm Hanley, Asst. Treas Tommy Arnold, Com-petitions Secretary Iris Cunningham, Asst CS John Byrne Jnr., RegistrarIris Cunningham, Juvenile Officer Brian Duff, PRO Damien Mullaney.Committee Members Jim Brannigan, Martin Flood,Ollie Hanratty andJohn Byrne Sn.

Improve your golfBellewstown PGA pro Mark O'-Sullivan has started giving jun-ior lessons again on Thursdayevenings, in Pilltown drivingrange until the weather warmsup. See http://www.markosulli-vangolf.com/Mark O'Sullivan is a PGA GolfProfessional at the PiltownDriving Range and Bellew-stown Golf Club. Mark is an es-tablished golfer and has

amassed a great understandingof the game through his playingyears and now coaching. He isfully PGA qualified and canhelp you achieve your goals ofbecoming a better golfer.

Juvenile athletes from Duleek and District Athletic club competed in CushinstownAC’s indoor athletics meeting in January. The meeting was organised and hostedby Cushinstown athletic club and catered for both track and field discipline fromunder 8 to under 21.Each and every one of the Duleek athletes put in great performances and were asource of great pride to their parents, coaches and club with some of the athletes

achieving medals in their category. This performance was a fitting reward for thehard work put in at Juvenile level by coaches and volunteers each of whom give uptheir time on a voluntary basis. And most importantly of all it was a testament tothe commitment and determination of the athletes themselves. Commenting on thesuccess of the day and the performances of the athletes Juvenile coaching co-ordi-nator Sam Power said ‘The future is bright. Each of the athletes are a credit to theclub – well done to all who took part’.

(L-R): Nessa, Aoife, Saoirse, Tadgh, Ava-Kate, Rian, Doireann, Eric and Cathal

MarkO’Sullivan

Dónal Kearns, Shannon Sheehy and Keith Marks

Cushinstown Athletic ClubAthletes from Cushinstown AC represented the club fantastically at the National Juniorand U/23 Indoor Championships in Athlone recently. Well done to Shannon Sheehy in win-ning the Junior Women’s high jump with 1.65m and finishing second in the long jump with.5.33m! Keith Marks was the winner of the Junior Men's high jump. Congratulations toShane Joyce who won two bronze medals in the shot put and triple jump, throwing 12.10m

and jumping 13.26m! There were PB's for Dónal Kearns in the pole vault, clearing 3.0mand Niall Flanagan in the 60m with 7.32s. There were several other great performancesfrom Luke Redmond and Luke Mc Cabe who were both in the 60m and 200m as well asCaoimhe Landy in the Long Jump and Michael O'Sullivan in the shot put. It was fantasticto see so many athletes competing at this very high level - roll on the coming season!

Cushinstown AC recordsThe GloHealth National Indoor Combined Event Champi-onships in January proved to be a very successful event forCushinstown Athletes with two National titles, a Champi-onship record and multiple Personal Best performances!Four Cushinstown AC multi-eventer athletes competed -Shannon Sheehy and Elizabeth Morland in the Youth girls’competition and Keith Marks and Dónal Kearns in the Jun-ior boys’ event.

Shannon achieved a Personal Bests in four of the five com-petitions - clocking in 8.74 seconds in the 60m hurdles, in thelong jump with a distance of 5.35m, in the high jump clear-ing 1.68m, and then covering 800m in 2 minutes 32 seconds,achieving yet another PB, her National Title and gold medal!Keith ran a Personal Best in the 60m hurdles, then jumped5.83m into first place with another PB. He then cleared2.00m in the high jump and threw the shot a respectable

10.79m. Keith put in a massive effort in the 1000m, finishingin a time of 2 minutes 57 seconds to give him a total score of3,544 points and securing him not only the gold medal butalso a new Championship Best Performance! Dónal did well throughout the day in all events, finishing justoutside the medals in 4th place.Unfortunately Elizabeth had to retire from the competitioninjured after the hurdles.

ST PAT’S RECOGNITIONSt Pat’s GAA club Stamullen was been listed asone of the top four clubs in Meath in Club ofthe Year, along with Dunboyne, Kiltale andBallinlough! Well done! Barry Campbell wasshortlisted for the Best Championship perform-ance in the Junior C draw final against Black-hall Gaels at Pairc Tailteann.

NEW GAMES, COACHING& DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Replacing Mick Bohan, St.Pat’s welcomes thenew appointment of David McKeon to the ca-pacity of ‘Games & Coaching Officer’ for 2015.David will work with as many mentors/coacheson the different teams as possible over the yearahead. David is no stranger to the club havingbeen a mentor with the boys U10's, boys U12's& manager of the girls U10's team.

Within David's role is to co-ordinate the activi-ties of the club coaches and managers to pro-vide a safe, smooth and rewarding progressionfor all its players from U8, U10, U12, U14,U16, Minor, U21, Junior and Senior through thePathway to Elite Performance (PEP) to arrang-ing periodic meetings of all coaches and man-agers as a member of the committee of theClub. Other responsibilities for David will beBest Practice, Coach Education, Club SchoolLink, Player Welfare & Cúl Camp Coordina-tor.

CLUB MEDIA 2015St.Patricks Gaa can be contacted on all types ofmedia for 2015 choose any of the followingEmail : pro.stpatricksmeath@gmail.com - Web-site : www.stpatricksgaa.com - Facebook :stpatricksgaastamullen - Twitter : @stpatsmeath– Youtube – StPatricksGaa. Phone 01-8418106

COONEY CUP 2015The 2015 Cooney Cup is a competion for chil-dren in 5th and 6th class across schools basedsolely in East Meath, and is now in its secondyear.The 2015 Cooney Cup welcomes Slane NS tothe competition. Their participation brings thetotal number of teams to an even 12 teams. Thisyear there will be two competitions, with twodivisions of six teams each . Division 1 Teams(six teams) will play for the Cooney Cup andthe remaining six teams will play in Division 2for An Corn Cois Farraige.

LEVEL ONE COACHING COURSEComhairle Laighean Leinster Coaching &Games Development Award 1 Child (U13 andbelow) coaching course. Venue: St PatricksGAA Club, Stamullen on 17 February at7.30pm. Cost €80.Contact St.Pat’s Games & Development OfficerDavid McKeon 087-6740405

KATIE BRANGAN NETSTOPPERSt Pat’s LGFA Katie Brangan has been selected

to guard the nets for the Meath minors in 2015.This comes as no surprise as Katie has beenwithout doubt one of the most consistent goaliesfor both club and county over the past fewyears. This news comes fresh on the heels ofKatie winning a special award at the club’s re-cent presentation night for most consistent per-former. Congratulations to Emma White, KatieDowing and Hazel Callaghan who also madethe Meath Minor team.

Bellewstown Golf clubThe Mens/Ladies Captains Drive In takes place on Sunday 8 March 2015 witha shotgun start at 9am or so followed by food Well done to Fran Smith on winning the Bellewstown Inn New Year’ day strokescompetiton. Many thanks to the Bellewstown Inn for their generous sponsor-ship. Membership for 2015 is just €595.

Dul/Bel GFC’s LottoDuleek Bellewstown GFC’s Lotto has a huge jackpot! So make sure to do it.Last Man Standing started on Saturday 30 January. Entry fee €10. Contact087-337 9462.

Get fit in Duleek !Duleek & District Athletic Club has circuit training every Tuesday for clubmembers in the parish hall from 9- 10pm. Only €3 !! New members and oldmembers welcome. Come on down - all you need is a yoga mat and plenty ofwater.

Tennis lessonsCurragha Tennis Club has just launched Tennis4Kids, a unique children's ten-nis programme. The programme runs every Thursday afternoon catering forchildren aged 5-12 years. Lessons take place indoors and outdoors and all equip-ment is provided for FREE. Tennis4kids is a games-based programme wherelearning is fun for each child and where they make new friends in small classsizes. It develops young children's confidence, co-ordination skills and a love ofsport for life.

GAA Foundation Coaching CourseDuleek/Bellewstown GFC is hosting a GAA Foundation Coaching Course atthe Club house in Duleek. There are two sessions to be completed on Tuesday 3February at 7.30pm and Saturday 7 February at 10am. Anyone interested ingetting involved with any under-age groups with the club are welcome to par-ticipate. For more information please contact Hugh Doogan, Coaching Officer,Duleek/Bellewstown GFC.

GAA Referees courseA course for new referees will take place in Aras Tailteann, Navan, on 3, 5 and10 February 2015 at 8 pm. Names to be supplied to:refereesadministrator.meath@gaa

Former Dublin footballer, Ciarán O’Hare is the new manager of St Pat’s Senior team for 2015 wherehe takes over from the departed duo of Cormac Sullivan and Ronan Kearns, who guided St.Pat’sto All County Division One safety at the end of 2014.

‘We are delighted with theappointment,’ said St Pat’schairperson, Anthony Woods. O’Hareplayed for Erin’s Isle for 17 years,winning two Dublin SFC titles andone Leinster crown. He was fouryears with the Dublin Senior teamfrom 1994 to 1998. He led Dublin tothe Leinster minor title in 2003. Healso went on to manage at Erin’s Isle.Ciaran will be assisted by NiallRussell, Cormac Murphy formerGalway cornerback, and All Irelandwinner from 1998 and 2001 TomasMeehan (all pictured here).

NEW MAN IN CHARGE

Six Star HurlerS

Congrats to the ‘Famous Six’ Missing from Imageis Junior Hurling Championship winning goal heroNeil O' Flaherty. L/R – Daithi Finnegan, J.P Ryan,Brian Calvey, Tommy Reilly and Brian Farrelly

NFL playoffs take place on 19 April. Semi-finals on 26 April and finals on 9 May.Minor Leinster semi-final takes place on 18 April, final on 4 May. All Ireland minorsemi-final on 18 July and final on 1 August.U14 All Ireland Blitz takes place on 16 May. Leinster final on 30 May. All Irelandsemi-final on 13/14 June and final TBA.U16 Leinster final on 17 May. All Ireland semi-final on 15 July and final on 29 July.

Meath GAA fixtures

More gold medals and more titles for theboxers from St Cianans! Wayne Raffertywon his final in a cracking fight againstthe Irish champion European bronzemedalist Darragh Murray from the EliteBoxing Club. James Mc Donagh won hissemi-final against Irish champion MartinMaughan from Cavan Boxing Club, thenwent on to claim gold in the final.Gavin Rafferty won his final on a unani-mous decision. Caolan Duff won silver inthe Micheal Andrews tournament in thenational in a cracking final against a verygood strong opponent from the SpartacusBoxing Club.Head coach from the Leinster squad waswatching the fight, and selected Caolanfor the Leinster team were he gets thechance to box in international bouts!Gavin Rafferty went on to claim gold inthe Micheal Andrews tournamet by out-boxing his opponent and stopping him inthe second round with a barrage ofpunches. Since then Gavin was invited totrain with the Irish squad in the high per-formance gym in the national stadium! What a great acheivement for any young kid! Nextstop is the Meath Open Championships in February.

St. Cianans Boxing Club success

2008--2014

O’Neill’s bar, lounge and restaurant wasgutted by fire last week, much to the dis-may of owner Seamus O’Neill and staff.The fire broke out around 2pm onWednesday 28 January, with the premisesbeing quickly engulfed in smoke. The fireservice arrived shortly afterwards andmanaged to contain the fire.However, the bar has been completely de-stroyed, with extensive smoke damage tothe lounge and restaurant area, as well asthe upstairs Roof Garden function roomand Cllr Sharon Keogan’s offices, fromwhere Duleek & District news and Face-book page is published.Fire investigators are combing the prem-ises to locate the source of the fire, and itis expected that O’Neill’s will remain

closed for a number of weeks. ‘This isdevastating for the whole area,’ said Sea-mus O’Neill. ‘At least there was nobodyhurt or injured, but I’ve had to let the staffgo as we can’t open and I have no workfor them. They’re all hard workers andvery loyal. We can’t hold any plannedfunctions or classes, show the matches,hold bingo or open the restaurant or officesdue to the smoke damage. It’s awful.’Seamus went on to say that the support hehas got is overwhelming! ‘Regulars in thebar, local residents, music lovers, and evenpeople as far away as Australia have con-tacted me by phone or through Facebook!All are offering support and assistance, butwe can’t do anything until the investiga-tors are finished here. Thanks to everyoneanyhow.’Jim O’Neill and his brother Gerry came toDuleek in 1957 and opened the first musiclounge in Leinster, which was quickly fol-lowed by The Embankment in Tallaght.Seamus was happy to follow the familyfootsteps and carries on the musical tradi-tion in the pub.The ramifications of the fire at O’Neill’sof Duleek will be felt through the villageand further afield. However, for the mo-ment, Duleek & District News offices,Duleek Revival Programme and CllrSharon Keogan’s constituency office is lo-cated in the Parish Office, courtesy of FrJohn Conlon and Duleek DevelopmentAssociation. Duleek & District Text Alertare also using the office at the parishrooms.

Droichead Arts Centre Drogheda

Booking Office 041 / 987 5140 041/983 3946

CITIZENS ADVICECITIZENS ADVICEEach month, I will try and answer some of the moretopical issues that often are asked here in my office

The Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) schemeprovides for tax relief for homeowners by way of anincome tax credit at 13.5% of qualifying expenditureon repair, renovation or improvement works carriedout on the homeowner’s home by qualifyingcontractors.Tax credits apply to owner occupiers of a main homewho pay income tax under PAYE or Self-Assessmentand whose Local Property Tax and Household Chargesobligations are up to date.. The homeowner must be onrevenue’s local property tax register as an owner. The

credit is payable over the two years following the year in which the work is carriedout and paid for.The work can be carried out by one or more contractors who are VAT registered. TheVAT rate is 13.5%.The following don’t qualify for the HRI: Rental properties or holiday homes, newbuilds, complete reconstruction of an uninhabitable house.What type of works qualify: painting & decorating, rewiring, tiling, supply and fittingof kitchen extentions, garages, landscaping, supply and fitting of solar panels,conservatories, plastering, plumbling, bathroom upgrades, supply and fitting ofwindows, attic conversions, driveways, septic tank repairs or replacement, centralheating system, supply and fitting of built in wardrobes.

Home Renovation Incentive Schemewww.revenue.ie/en/tax/it/relief/hri Telephone: 1890444425

l Cllr. 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

Duleek National Schools 5k which takes places on Sunday, 15 Feb. at 1 p.m.

Duleek PancakesChef Giuseppe Spiteriwill once again hit thestreets of Duleek cre-ating his tasty pan-cakes in aid of LouthMeath Specialist Pal-liative Care services.The ‘crepe canopy’will be located outsideDuleek Pharmacy,which has been run-ning the charity pan-cake event for 8 yearsnow!Kathy Maher saidthat selling fresh hotpancakes on the streetfor cancer charity hasproved very popularin the past, and sheexpects a big turn outas usual. ‘ We usuallymake in excess of1500 pancakes - all toraise money forLouth Meath Special-ist Palliative Careservices. We appreci-ate all support and alldonations. This is our8th year doing this. ‘

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Stamullen’scomedy star

Sharon Horgan (44) fromStamullen is the star of anew Channel 4 series, ‘Cat-astrophe’, which looks set tobecome the comedy hit ofthe year. The storyline isabout an Irish woman, Hor-gan, and an American man(Rob Delaney) who struggleto fall in love in London, butmake an almighty mess asthey do! The series has beenco-written by Sharon Hor-gan and her co-star Delaney.Sharon grew up in Bellew-stown, attending school lo-cally, followed by the SacredHeart. She rose to fame inthe BBC comedy ‘Pulling’which she co-wrote withDennis Kelly, which wasnominated for a BAFTA forBest Sitcom. In the secondseries of Pulling, Horganwon Best Televisoin Com-edy Actress in 2008.Watch out for ‘Catastrophe’as Sharon discovers thatshe’s pregnant following afling with the American inLondon, and how they workout trans-Atlantic parent-hood!

A henge monument on Bellewstown Hill is illuminated by the rising sunof the mid-winter solstice around 21 December. Located at Mullaghteel-ing, on the eastern slope or ridge of Bellewstown Hill and situated some150 metres above sea-level, it is over 60m in diameter.The entrance stone, or megalith, which is some 3 metres in length, de-fines the entrance to the henge and is situated at the south-east side ofthe monument, hence the mid-winter sun rising above it and crossingthe enclosure and hill of Mullaghteeling before it penetrates the roof-box at Newgrange.These enclosures date to the end of the Neolithic/beginning of the BronzeAge, around 4,500 years ago; it appears from similar sites excavated thatthey were used for ceremonial/ritual activity and for burials. There are anumber of such monuments to be found in the Boyne valley area, whilethe valley between the Henge monument at Mullaghteeling and the Four-knocks ridge also contains at least three other similar monuments.Interestingly, the entrance passage to the Fourknocks Passage Tomb,which is situated almost 4 kilometres to the south-west of Mullaghteel-ing, is set directly facing the henge monument at Mullaghteeling.The henge at Mullaghteeling would anciently have been called SliabhBaile na Calliach. The name Mullaghteeling is a medieval personal nameof Teeling, mullagh or Mullach, referring to a hill, hence the name Mul-laghteeling, i.e. `Teeling`s hill`. There are two names associated withBellewstown, the first being Crocafotha, meaning Hill of the Playingfields, while the eastern slope of the ridge is called Sliabh Baile na Cal-liach or Sliabh Baile na Calliagh, meaning the `Mountainside Home ofthe Witch or Hag. Calliach, the word literally means `Old Woman` andis found in countless mythological tales in both Ireland and Scotland.The Calliach was a `Divine Hag`, an ancestral Deity or Goddess whoruled over the winter months between Samhain and Bealtine; she turnsto stone at Bealtine and reverts back to humanoid form at Samhain orHalloween in time to rule over the winter. The name of Sliabh Baile naCalliach was corrupted to Calliaghstown and finally Collierstown overthe years and a wide area of Bellewstown today retains the address ofCollierstown.A few kilometres north of Mullaghteeling Hill, in the area of Cooperhill,there is another local name which is that of Calliaghstown, however, this

place-name is associated with the later name and meaning of the ̀ VeiledOne`, as the name here is associated with a medieval nunnery that waslocated at Cooperhill. Some people in the Bellewstown area are also ofthe belief that the local name of Collierstown is also taken from the earlyname of Cal-liaghstown andreferring to anunnery atBellewstown,however, thisis not the caseand the nameof Calliach iscertainly asso-ciated herewith theMountainsideHome of theWitch, ie, thehenge sitemonument atMullaghteel-ing.The site at Sli-abh Baile naCalliach is onprivate land.Views of thesur round inglandscape ofMeath, Dublin,W i c k l o w ,We s t m e a t h ,Cavan andLouth are mag-nificent.

The first image is the break or rising of the mid-wintersun as it appears over the 500ft contour of theKnockbrac hill, near the Bog of the Ring in Fingal andas it reflects across the central plain of the Hengemonument at Mullaghteeling. The second image is thereflection of the sun against the entrance stone to themonument. (Pics: Courtesy of Brendan Matthews)

Stars in their Eyes fundraiser with Cloghertown United FC inthe TLT theatre, Drogheda on 16 May 2015 at 7pm. All groupsor clubs are invited to enter, with the chance to win €5k for theirclub.Stars in their Eyes is a talent show in which contestants imper-sonate showbiz stars. Contestants will morph into their favouritemusical star, emerging from the iconic smoky doors to take cen-tre stage. Do you know or have anyone in your club who wouldhave the Star Quality to represent you on stage on the night? So

dramatic drum rolls at the ready and expect to hear the catchphrase ‘Tonight I’m goingto be …..’15 slots are available on the main stage. Entrance fee for each act is €500, entrantsmust be 18 or over. Audience voting will take place on the night for the 1st round, andthe final 3 contestants with the most votes will perform again and will be judged by aprofessional panel of judges. Audience tickets for the event cost €20.If you are interested in taking part or in getting more information, please contact ColinCooling on 086-4579303, and sign up with Cloghertown United before the deadlinedate of 28 February.

Sunday 26 April 2015 is the date for theannual Duleek CF 10k run. Starting at2pm, this running event is to rememberand celebrate the lives of cousins CathyO'Brien and Kelley Noone and allfriends and families touched by CysticFibrosis (CF). The aim of the event isto raise awareness of CF and to raisefunds for the local Drogheda branch.Organisers are very conscious of thefact that all the participants raised al-most €49,000.00 from the last 2 yearsevent but sponsorship cards are avail-able upon request for those that wouldlike to get extra sponsorship. You can

register and pay online now. Contactthem at duleekcf10@gmail.com orphone Ann 086 2852642 or Sarah 0876465457.Proceeds raised to Drogheda Branch ofCystic Fibrosis Ireland. Participants ofall levels of fitness are welcome. Forthose who are not interested in walk-ing/running but would like to be partof the challenge, remember you arewelcome to be a volunteer on the day.Registration is €25 and you can regis-ter online@https://eventbrite.ie/event/15351774571/.

Congratulations to Eimear Eustace from Beabeg who recently graduatedwith a BA in Irish Studies a& Theology from Mater Dei Institute of Edu-cation, DublinWell done to the Duleek seniors group who recently showed the dvd oftheir Christmas party. A large crowd gathered in Carranstown Lodge towatch, amid lots of good humour and banter. Refreshments were servedand the night was deemed a success. A big thanks go to all their support-ers.Fabulous Hair & Beauty, Drogheda, are delighted to announce the pro-motion of Duleek hairdresserNiamh to manager/stylist. Niamh has 11year’s experience in styling, colouring and cutting. To celebrate Niamh'spromotion, the salon is offering some special offers. Check Fabulous onFacebook.Good Luck to local girl Donna Ryan with her new Candy Cart Business.TheCandy Cart isavailable for hire for all occasions. Weddings, christen-ings, confirmations, communions and birthdays. Any special requests canbe catered for. Contact Donna on 086-0355539 or follow her on Facebook. Congratulations to new parents Sinead (nee Taafe) and Mark Hogan onthe birth of their new baby boy Dylan. Congratulations to Lucy Anne Mathot:youngest daughter of Tom & Lucy Mathot,on receiving her Degree of Doctor of Philos-ophy (Faculty of Medicine) from UppsalaUniversity Sweden recently.Ardcath Macra News: We as a club wouldlike to say congrats to our club memberNiamh Fagan on reaching the Final 6 in the“Macra na Feirme National LeadershipAwards”. Best of luck in the next stageNiamh!Congrats to Ardcath Macra membersJohnMcGrath and his wife-to-be Liz on their re-cent engagement. Niamh Fagan

Duleek Drama Players perform ‘Anna – the girl who stood out in thecold’ in the Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda, from Wednesday 18 –Saturday 21 February. The play was written by Duleek producer, actorand writer Michael Ferguson and is performed by Duleek Drama Players. ‘Anna’ tells the story of a 12 year old girl who was sentenced to standoutside in her bare feet throughout a Polish winter’s night when tempsdropped below -30 centigrade. Her fellow inmates try to help her survive,but have to contend with the sadistic SS officer supervising.The play was performed last year to great acclaim, so Michael decidedto put it on again to give local audiences a second chance to see thismoving production. Further info or bookings from 041-9833946.

With approximately 6 stone being shed every week by the OperationTransformation group, Duleek, must be on track to becomingIreland’s slimmest village!There are many ways to take part and get fit – Community Walkstake place on Sundays at 1pm and Wednesdays at 7pm, meeting atDuleek village green. All ages and fitness levels are welcome! Walkor jog, take a pram, a bike or a dog. These walks are for anymembers of the community who want to get some exercise and havea laugh at the same time! No fees, just show up! Fluorescent Vest /Hi-viz jacket compulsory. It’s a great way to get some fresh air andget fit.

According to Kathy Maher of Duleek Pharmacy, and currentlyPresident of the Irish Pharmacy Union, people should ‘Know their

Numbers’. Over 600 pharmacies signed up to help members of the public ‘know their numbers’as part of RTÉ's Operation Transformation campaign. Pharmacies nationwide ill provided freeBMI and waist measurements. Body Mass Index (BMI) is calculated using the person's height andweight. It is recommended that women have a maximum waist measurement of 32 inches (80cms)and men have a maximum measurement of 37 inches (94cms).Kathy Maher, President of the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), said, ‘It is important that people havea healthy BMI and a healthy waist measurement.Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcareprofessionals and are ideally placed to play acentral role in public health. Having a healthyweight can reduce the risk of developing diabetesand heart disease. We are delighted to be involvedwith Operation Transformation this year inpromoting a healthy lifestyle to the public.’

Kathy Maher

Duleek Women’s ForumDuleek Women’s Forum held their Annual GeneralMeeting recently and the following were elected: Chairperson Vivienne McGuinness, Asst CP Betty Con-nor, Treasurer Gretta McGuinness, Secretary Pat Spel-lacci, PRO Anne Finger, Programme co-ordinatorsLorraine Conyngham and Angela Gallagher.A programme for the coming year was unveiled: Chairaerobics27/1, 3/2 and 10/2. Cookery 17/2, 24/2 and 3/3.Coffee Morning 10/3 in aid of proposed new Duleek

community centre. Sugarcraft 24/3, 31/3 and 7/4. Thegroup meets every Tuesday morning 10.30am-12.30pmin The Parish Rooms, Duleek.

Duleek Schools 5kDuleek Schools 5k Fundraiser takes place on Sunday15 February at 1pm and a large participation is ex-pected. Registration is €20. This includes chipped time& t-shirt. Family rate: 2adults & 2children €35.No chipped time or T-shirt with this rate. Children getgoodie bags!

Children (under 16's) €5. No chipped time or T-shirt.Goodie bag provided!Register here : http://precisiontiming.primo-solutions.co.uk/…/DuleekSchool…For more information & update Facebook @https://www.facebook.com/…/Duleek-National-…/865128053520128Duleek NS would like to thank Aidan Ryan & Compa-nies, main sponsor of their forthcoming 5K race whichtakes place on Sunday 15 February at 1pm.https://www.facebook.com/aidanryancompanies

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Meath Waste-to-Energy

FEBRUARYl Sunday 1. St Brigid’s Cross making workshopsfor children in Seamus Ennis Centre, Naul.l Tuesday 3. 10.30am. Duleek Parish Rooms.Chair aerobics with Women’s Forum.l Friday 6. Annual Maureen Andrews PokerClassic in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs in Whyte’sof Stamullen. Tickets €25. Maureen 041-9829192l Tuesday 10. 10.30am. Duleek Parish Rooms.Chair aerobics with Women’s Forum.l Wednesday 11. 2.30pm in Duleek ParishCentre. Duleek & Bellewstown Active RetirementAssociation’s AGM.l Thursday 12: Duleek Revival ProgrammeMeeting in Meath Co. Co., One Stop Shop, Duleekl Thursday 12. Wedding Fayre, CityNorth.l Friday 13. 8pm. Concert in aid of theAlzheimer’s unit Building Fund takes place in StMary’s Church, Droghedal Saturday 14. Valentine’s Night Burns’ Supperin in Seamus Ennis Centre, Naul.l Sunday 15. Further information on Facebook.Duleek BNS and GNS Parents’ Association 5kRun.l Sunday 15. First draw of Stamullen ParishFundraising Committee’s 10 week draw.l Tuesday 17. 10am – 12pm. Pancake Tuesday forEast Meath Hospice in CityNorth Hotel. Adm:€5.l Tuesday 17. Pancake Tuesday for Louth MeathSpecialist Palliative Care services in DuleekPharmacy.l Tuesday 17. 10.30am. Cookery in Duleek ParishRooms with Women’s Forum.l Wednesday 18. 8pm. Slane History &Archaeology Society lecture on the Slane Coalpitsby Tom French in the Conyngham Arms, Slane.l Wednesday 18 – Saturday 21. 8pm. DuleekDrama Players perform ‘Anna – the girl whostood out in the cold’ in the Droichead Arts.l Tuesday 24. 10.30am. Cookery in Duleek ParishRooms with Women’s Forum.l Wednesday 25. 11am. Confirmation St Mary'sChurch Ardcath.l Saturday 28. Sign up deadline for CloghertownUnited’s Stars in their Eyes. Contact ColinCooling on 086-4579303.l Saturday 28 . 3pm. Pop-Up Art Exhibitionfund-raiser towards refurbishment of St. CanicesChurch, Damastown, Naul in Seamus Enniscentre.

MARCHl Tuesday 3. 10.30am. Cookery in Duleek ParishRooms with Women’s Forum.l Sunday 8. 9am. Bellewstown Golf clubMens/Ladies Captains Drive In.l Tuesday 10. 10.30am. Coffee Morning inDuleek Parish Rooms with Women’s Forum in aidof proposed new Duleek community centre.l Tuesday 10. 7.30pm. First Confession St Johnthe Baptist Church Clonalvy l Wednesday 11. 7.30pm. First Confession StAndrew's Church Curraha. l Thursday 12 . 7.30pm. First Confession StMary's Church Ardcath.l Tuesday 24. 10.30am. Sugarcraft in DuleekParish Rooms with Women’s Forum.l Tuesday 31. 10.30am. Sugarcraft in DuleekParish Rooms with Women’s Forum.

APRILl A trip to the battlefields of the Great War withBellewstown Heritage Group. Information fromFiona Ahern, Bellewstown 087-9738736, emailahernfiona@yahoo.iel Tuesday 7. 10.30am. Sugarcraft in DuleekParish Rooms with Women’s Forum.l Friday 10. 9pm. Carranstown Lodge, Duleek.

Shave-athon in aid of Duleek Senior Citizensoutings committee.l Sunday 26. 2pm. Annual Duleek CF 10k run.

MAYl 16. 7pm. Stars in their Eyes fundraiser withCloghertown United FC in the TLT, Drogheda.

OCTOBERl Minecraft in CityNorth Hotel.

ONGOING EVENTSl Community Walks Sundays 1pm andWednesdays at 7pm, meeting at Duleek villagegreen. All ages and fitness levels are welcome!l Stamullen Bowls Club meets every Tuesday andThursday from 8-10pm in St Patrick’s Centre.l Julianstown Foroige club meets in the ParishRooms every Friday 7.30-9pm. Over 12s welcome.l Curragha Tennis Club Tennis4Kids, everyThursday afternoon for children 5-12 years.l At Your Leisure active retirement group forthose over 55 years. Contact Diane 087-1341556.l Yoga in Parish Rooms, Julianstown, Tuesday10.30am. Hatha yoga Thursdays at 7.15pm.Contact Margaret on 087-6948715.l Badminton contuse in Community Centre,Julianstown, Tuesday nights 7.30pm. Over 16s.l Golden Girls club for the over 50s everyMonday 11am St Patrick’s GAA club, Stamullen. l Fatloss class Mondays 8.30-9pm, Stamullenparish hall. Suitable for all fitness levels. Cost €7.l Pilates for weightloss and all-over body toningStamullen parish hall, 7-8pm, for beginners andimprovers. Cost €9. Mats provided.l Children's Health & Fitness Classes DuleekParish Hall. Mondays 11am, age 18 months - 4yrs. Saturdays 1pm, age 18 months - 4yrs.Saturdays 2pm, age 5-8yrs.l Parent & Toddler morning in Pudden Hill onThursdays @ 10:30am! Free tea for parents andjuice for kids! €5 per child, €3 for additional.l Bingo every Thursday night at 9pm in Whyte’sof Stamullen. Resumes 5 February. Jackpot €200l Ballet, dance, yoga classes ongoing in SeamusEnnis Centre, The Naul, every week.l Knitting & crochet group meets on Thursdaymornings in Sonairte from 10.30-12. Call Eileenon 086-7347789 or Margaret on 086-8093711.l Duleek Toddler Group Wednesdays 10am-12noon in Duleek parish centre. To book086-8818587 / 086-8483844/ 087-1208038.l Pilates classes in Bellewstown Hall everyTuesday & Thursday 7- 8pm. Costs €7 per hour.l Wednesday afternoon club in The Old PostCafe, Main Street, Duleek 2.30pm – 4.00pm.Relax, swap stories and make friends. l Bowling in Duleek Parish Centre every Tuesdayat 2.30pm. Other activities with Active Retirementin Centre on the 3rd Wed. of the month at 2.30pm. l Whist Drive in Bennet’s Lounge, Ardcath, at8.30pm Monday nights.l Duleek Women’s Forum meets every Tuesdayfrom 10.30am to 12 noon in Duleek PrayerRooms.l Kenpo karate classes in Duleek Parish centreon Wednesday and Friday nights.l A no-cost 5k run takes place every Saturdaymorning in Oldbridge Estate, Donore, at 9.30am.l Duleek AC Fit4Youth (12-16yrs) LourdesTrack, Drogheda Mondays 8-9pm. InformationMaria at 086-3361849 or marial@duleekac.ie l Soccer Club Academy catering for 4 - 7 yearolds Sunday morning on the Astro Pitch atCarranstown, Duleek 11am-12 noon.l Stamullen Tidy Towns meet 11am-12 everySaturday. Volunteers needed.l Craft classes for creative children aged 3-12 inTobersuil Craft Centre on Mondays 4-5.30. Irishdancing on Tues. 5.15-6.15pm. Ann 087-6698428.

l Cushinstown Athletic Club Under 9s trainingevery Thursday. Adult Fit For Life with NicolaLeech Wednesday 7pm.l Golden Girls meet in The Parish Rooms,Stamullen every Monday morning 11am.l Kick boxing classes for children in JulianstownCommunity Centre Wednesday and Friday 7-8pm. Stephen 087-1186750.l St Mary’s Baton Twirlers Training Wednesday6-8pm in St Pats GAA Sports Hall, Stamullen.Children 4+. Contact 086-3270636.l Yoga in parish rooms Julianstown on Tuesdays10.30am for relaxing yoga, and Hatha yogaThursdays 7.15pm. Margaret: 087-6948715.l Bingo Thursdays in Bellewstown Inn 9.30pm.l Irish dance classes Bellewstown HallWednesday 4.30pm. Girls and boys from 4 years.Orla Nic Conuladh 086-3619169l Duleek Bridge club meets at 8pm everyWednesday in Carranstown Lodgel Irish dancing Duleek classes Mondays with theWynne School of Irish Dancing at 7pm Tuesdayswith the Campbell Academy of Irish Dancingfrom 6-7 (Wed 5-6 in Donore) and with CorriganWhite school of Irish dancing Wednesdays at5.45pm.l Ballet for the little ones (aged 2 ½ -6 years) inDuleek Mondays. Contact 087-7192545.l Glee Club for singing and dancing in Duleek onSaturdays 10.30-12 Kentstown Wed 4-5.30l Lego Club in Duleek parish hall on Mondaysfrom 3-4 and 4-5pm. Rebecca on 087-1341736.every Wednesday in Carranstown Lodge.l Irish dancing classes with Lennon-Mc Loughlinschool of Irish Dancing Tuesdays in JulianstownCommunity Centre. Age 4+ welcome!l Stamullen Bowls Club Tuesdays andThursdays 8-10pm in St Patrick’s GAAStamullen.l Mother and Toddler group on WednesdaysJulianstown community centre from 9.30-11.30.l Badminton club plays every Tuesday night at7.30pm in Julianstown community centre. l Tai Chi classes in Lung Ying academyRosnaree. All levels. Tues. 9.30-10.30am, Wed. 10-11am & 7-9pm and Saturdays 11am- 12pm. KungFu classs Tuesday 7.30-8pm (kids) 8-9pm (adults),Thurs. 7.30-9pm and Sun. 11am-1pm. Tel: 086-8065064l Ardcath Choir: To join contact Bernie on 086-8354000. Practice on Tuesday evenings at 8pm.Choir sings at 6.30pm on Saturday evening.l Bingo every Thursday night in the BellewstownInn at 9.30p.m. Saturday nights Darts at 9.30pm.l Pilates @ Bangla Therapy Centre, Balrath.Mondays 9.45am mixed levels, 7pmbeginner/improver, 8pm intermediate/advanced.l Pilates by Denise Mondays in Duleek ParishCentre. Pilates high intensity class for Weightlossand toning10-11am and Tuesday eveningStamullen parish hall 7-8pm. All classes are forbeginners and improvers. 7euros. Bring towel andwaterl St Colmcille’s GFC, Pilltown, hold a range ofclasses in the clubrooms. Tuesdsays Mindfulness& Relaxation 10am-12. Wednesdays ballroomdancing 3-5pm. Thursdays Fitness & nutrition10am-12. Fridays Mens’ Shed 10am-12. ContactMarian on 089-4349545/Sr Angela 086-8802410.l Gormanston Beach Cleaning Committee meetup 1st Sat. of the month to clean strand. Februaryonwards they will also meet every 2nd Mon.evening also.l Pilates in Skryne on Tuesdays 10am -beginner/improver. Thursday 7pm -beginner/improver. 8pm - intermediate/advanced.Bookings Andrea 085-8285200.