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Balbriggan Our Christmas message to you all As you, our readers, prepare to tuck into your turkey roast and begin ripping open presents, the staff at Balbriggan Local would like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas. We really appreciate the support your community especially the advertisers have given us over the past 12 months and look forward to your continued support next year. We would also like to thank our wonderful contributors who have made the magazine the success it is. So whether you are a reader, a contributor, or an advertiser we say thank you and hope you have a happy safe and enjoyable Christmas. From all the team at Balbriggan Local.

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BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

‘Ardgillan Castle Revealed’ book launched by Pat Kenny Broadcaster Pat Kenny launched the book Ardgillan Castle Revealed,written by castle tour guide Aidan Herron recently in Ardgillan Castle.The book was financially supported by Fingal County Council who bought Ardgillan Castle in 1982. In attendance of the launch was Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Gráinne Maguire, local councilors and Senior Executive Officer of Fingal County Council’s Economic and Social Development, Mary Godwin. Terence Taylour’s family lived in Ardgillan Castle from the time it was built in 1738. He and his wife Lindy attended the launch as special guests along with many of Ardgillan’s voluntary tour guides. During her speech, Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Gráinne Maguire said: “Ardgillan Castle is one of the County’s most popular destinations among Fingal residents and visitors. Aidan’s book,Ardgillan Castle Revealed,offers invaluable insight to the history of the castle as well as unique details of treasures and collections that reside in the House are currently not on view to the public. This book is a creative and engaging reflection of the Castle, its history and importance in Fingal.” In his speech, Pat Kenny welcomed the book as an important initiative in respecting our history and traditions and described it as “a masterpiece of photography and story-telling.” During his address, Mr Herron said: “Ardgillan

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Photographer Eamon O’Daly, Author Aidan Herron, Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Grainne Maguire and Pat Kenny at Ardgillan Castle.

is a unique place with unique attractions and stories. People need to see that the castle is more than just a panoramic setting as Eamon O’Daly’s sublime photographs illustrate. His images portray Ardgillan in all its former, poignant grandeur The entire proceeds of this publication will be donated to the Board of Ardgillan to kick start the process of developing specific heritage projects that will allow the public to view these valuable artefacts during guided tours of the Castle.

Ardgillan Castle Revealed includes photos taken by photographer Eamon O’Daly. On Saturday, the audience viewed an audio visual presentation of Eamon’s skill and innovation in bringing the scenes and surroundings of the Castle to life. This video will shortly be available on Ardgillan Castle’s website.The book is now on sale in Ardgillan Castle and in local bookshops. You can find out more about Eamon and Christine’s workshops at www.skerriesphotography.com.

Local News

Balbriggan Library events in December Imeachtaí i Leabharlann Baile Brigín Iúil 2018 / Library Events Balbriggan Library Gach Imeachtaí Saor! / All Events are FREE! Fón/Phone: 01 8704401, Ríomhphoist/Email: balbrigganlibrary@fingal.ie

Nollaig Shona Daoibh agus athbhliain faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise ó leabharlann Bhaile Brigín Happy Christmas and a happy New Year from all at Balbriggan Library. Mon 24thClosed, Tues 25thClosed, Wed 26th & Tues 1stJan Closed Thurs 27th,Fri 28th, Sat 29th& Mon 31st.9.45- 1.00 & 1.45 -5.00pm Regular opening hours from Wednesday 2nd January Saturday 15th 2.00-3.00pm - Christmas Stories Come along and listen to a selection of Christmas stories for children. All welcome. Baby Book Club – Wednesdays 10.30 – 11.30 am Join us on the first Wednesday of every month while we read stories for babies & toddlers. All welcome. Scrabble Club

Scrabble club for adults:Mondays at 11am. All are welcome, scrabble boards supplied. Balbriggan Writer’s Group, every Saturday 11am-1pm The Balbriggan Writer’s Group meets every Saturday in the library from 11am until 1pm. New members are always welcome – just come along on the day! Fichille Sóisearach Baile Brigín / Balbriggan Junior Chess Club Wednesdays 3.30-4.30pm Junior Chess club meet every Wednesday in the Young Adult section of the library.

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

Fingal Libraries secures €711k funding to invest in ICT

County Librarian Betty Boardman

Fingal Libraries has secured a major funding boost of €711,000 to upgrade and improve ICT and digital services throughout its network, which is a key strategic aim of its ambitious Development Plan to be rolled over the next five years. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, has approved an almost €8 million investment for libraries nationwide, with approximately €6 million funded by the Department and a further €2 million contribution from Local Authorities. Fingal Libraries will receive €476,000 from the Department, which was the second highest grant awarded to a local authority by the Department. The remaining €235,000 will come from Fingal County Council itself. Announcing the investment package, Minister Ring said: “This investment will enhance ICT infrastructure, create new meeting spaces with state-of-the-art technology and provide dedicated digital learning suites. The new facilities and services will attract new users of all ages to our public libraries. I have to commend the local authorities for recognising the invaluable service the libraries provide and for committing €2 million to this investment package.”

The funding includes the provision of: • iPads/tablets/smart devices for users and for staff to assist users • Computers and workstations • Meeting space technology • Podcasting equipment and workstations • Mobile LCD screens with audio • Interactive whiteboards • Digital training suites • Maker space equipment County Librarian Betty Boardman, said: “This funding has come at a very good time for Fingal Libraries as it will assist us in achieving two of the main objectives in our Development Plan published earlier this year – to continue to provide high quality, welcoming, accessible spaces which meet the needs of library users and to reinforce the position of libraries in the community as key points of access to information technology and digital services.” The Plan identifies seven key objectives: Workforce, Capital and Infrastructure, Collections and Resources, Programming of events and Activities, Technology, Marketing and Communications and Collaboration and Partnerships. Over a million visits were made to public libraries in Fingal during 2017.

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BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

Foróige Balbriggan going from strength to strength

Christmas party nights

The Bracken Court Hotel is the perfect location to host your shared Christmas party or entertain clients as it captures the true essence and spirit of Christmas. Enjoy a warm festive punch on arrival as you mingle with friends and colleagues old and new before we take you to your table. Hannah, Sarah and Alex attended launch of Dear president letters.

Our specially prepared four course Christmas Menu is sure to delight followed by our favourite mini mince pies. Live band entertainment from 9pm followed by our live DJ Shane Greene from 11.30pm are sure to keep you and your guests dancing the night away into the early hours of the morning.

DATES AVAILABLE

FRIDAY’S CHRISTMAS WITH A TWIST Experience the Ultimate Hits with Kevin O’Sullivan and enjoy an hour of Karaoke if your game? Friday, 30th November Friday, 7th December Friday, 14th December €45 per person SATURDAY’S CHRISTMAS CLASSIC Now that’s what we call Christmas with Shane Butler

Halloween Trip to Haunted Spooktacular.

Foróige relocated from St. Georges square to Castlemill Education Centre in Flemington in May this year. Since then we have run a number of successful summer programmes, a Halloween programme and several clubs and groups that promote active citizenship, healthy bodies and minds, learning and personal development. Youth Cafés have been running on Thursday and Friday nights to give young people a safe place to go and hang out with friends. We are actively taking referrals for young people who may need some additional support in relation to education, family circumstances, peers, drugs and alcohol misuse, anti-social behaviour, social skills, Health or wellbeing. We encourage, parents, guardians, teachers and community agencies to make referrals if a young person needs any additional support. Contact Áine on 086-7710790. In October 6 young people from Balbriggan had their letters published in the Dear president, National project. This publication ensured that young people’s voices were heard even though they couldn’t vote. Young people were invited to write a letter or poem outlining what it is like for them as a young person in Ireland today, their dreams for a future Ireland and how they would like the president to represent them over the next term of office. Three young people from Balbriggan attended the Launch of this Document in NUI Galway. The Staff of Foróige Balbriggan would like to wish the young people volunteers and community of Balbriggan a very happy Christmas. We would like to sincerely thank all the volunteers who have been involved throughout the year, they’re support to young people is invaluable and much appreciated. Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Saturday, 1st December SOLD OUT Saturday, 8th December Saturday, 15th December €45 per person

PARTY & STAY

Let the Bracken Court Hotel be your home away from home this festive season and book one of our beautifully appointed bedrooms for only €40 per person sharing. (€25 Single Supplement Applies) *Terms & Conditions Apply.

To book your Christmas Party, contact our dedicated Christmas Party Team on (01) 841 3333 or e-mail events@brackencourt.ie

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BRACKENCOURT.IE BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

Signs for thought-dogs under control by Claire Stauber ‘It’s the law - all dogs must be leashed’ – from parks to lake beaches, escaping this message on a recent Chicago trip was a no go. There, canine public outings are made easy. It is clear where, if and how dogs can explore the city. Dog owners seem to pay attention, too. Would these notices have made me bat an eyelid before I had a toddler? No. But these posts made me sigh with relief when I took my young son to visit Lincoln Park. Not only that, but back home and having dogs off leash has become a hot topic with local mums in Fingal and it is starting to bug me too. It all started on a summer’s day shell hunting at Malahide Beach. My son and I got to work with buckets in hand and buried our eyes in the washed-up sea bed. Then, out of nowhere, a ball of black fluff charges at my son, spins him around until he ends up face down on a pile of wet rocks and soggy seaweed. What seemed like minutes later, the owner saunters over and tries to wrestle the tearaway from us. Classic lines rolled from her tongue – “he is usually great with kids”, “he just wants to play” and “he wouldn’t hurt a fly”. Still in shock, I blurt out that the dog shouldn’t be out of her sight. And with that, the lead was whipped around his neck. Bizarrely the same incident, given not as dramatic, happened weeks later at

Portmarnock Beach. Friends have similar stories, mostly from Paddy’s Hill, ironically near Robs Wall playground. Was I just in the wrong place at the wrong time? Fingal County Council introduced ByeLaws which provide some guidance: Dogs can be off lead at certain times of day, months of the year and if ‘under adequate control’. Someone has got the wrong end of the stick when it comes to what this all means.

Avoiding places in fear of rogue dogs or my son growing up scared senseless of pooches isn’t an option. At the same time, I don’t want to put him in a position where he has a reason to. Perhaps we need to take a leaf out of the Windy City’s book and be more upfront about when and where loving dog owners can let their four-legged companions free. Maybe then, we would all feel safe to enjoy the open spaces Malahide and Fingal in general offers.

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Local News

Balbriggan Historical Society Photo Exhibition

Ronnie Norton Brian Howley BDHS Dep Mayor Cllr Grainne Maguire Anne Collins Chair BDHS

Balbriggan: People and Places 1893 Photographic Exhibition Balbriggan & District Historical Society was proud to host a unique photographic exhibition of the people and places of Balbriggan taken in the year of 1893. The exhibition was launched by Deputy Mayor of Fingal Cllr Gráinne Maguire in the Bracken Court Hotel on Friday October 19th in front of a huge enthusiastic crowd with many more attending on the Saturday. Brian Howley spoke at the launch about how in 2016, the Society acquired a collection of photographs taken by Mr. Lewis Whyte, amateur photographer and Managing Director at Smyco factory on Railway Street. The photographs were in two albums and were tiny in size. Since acquiring these photographs we have got them digitised and a selection of them printed, and it is amazing to see the finished product. Brian also shared some of the research he had done into the people who featured in the photographs. At the exhibition we were delighted to gain more insight into the photographs from the enthralled audience who recognised the people and places in the photos, many of which were taken on a single day and capture the people and familiar places of our town. We felt that the conservation and exhibition of these albums was an important contribution by our society to the cultural heritage of our town and we are delighted with how

skillfully Ronnie Norton set about the task of restoration and digitisation. Speaking after the exhibition Ronnie said “Combine the staggering detail of the original negatives and the subsequent prints .... and you get absolute wonderment on the faces of all that attended the Bracken Court opening of the exhibition” We are delighted that the exhibition was such a success and don’t worry if you missed it as and we will be arranging further exhibitions in the future. If you want information on our Society visit www.Balbrigganhistory.com

Killian Harford Secretary BDHS Anne Collins Chair BHHS Dep Mayor of Fingal Cllr Grainne Maguire Brian Howley BDHS Ronnie Norton

www.facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal 10 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

Monika Reder photography exhibition launched

Monika Reder has been creating uniquely beautiful photographs for almost a decade. Her passion for portrait photography clearly shines through in her joyful and reflective images. Her favourite subject matters are children, maternity photography and any special human relationships from the bonds between generations to couples in love. The relaxed atmosphere she is able to establish with each client allows her to capture the rarest, special moments, from the fun and warmth of family togetherness to a compelling and new vision of oneself. Monika says that she is essentially self-taught. She has a degree in economics but photography is her passion and, gradually, it has become more than just a hobby to her. She started practicing her artistic eye and skills using her two young daughters as her first portrait subjects. She now works from her home studio in Balbriggan and at outdoor locations chosen by her or recommended by her clients. An exhibition of atmospheric photographs, capturing a summer in the Polish countryside, was held in Balbriggan Library in late October – early November. The exhibition was open by the Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Grainne Maguire. Monika, originally from Poland, commented: ‘These images are a bit different from my usual work. They are a flashback to this year’s hot summer. I just wanted to show the laid-back and simple summer days in the country, when you can relax and walk barefoot with the warm ground under your feet and no modern-day distractions, social media or glaring screens in sight.’ Monika’s motto, ‘Simplicity is the Ultimate Sophistication’, (Leonardo da Vinci), radiates unmistakably from her beautifully lit and styled images.See more of Monika’s work on: http://monikarederphotography.comhttp:// monikarederphotography.com 12 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local News

Get involved in shaping the future of ‘Our Balbriggan’ An initial €20million+rejuvenation scheme represents the start of Our Balbriggan a three-year vision for the future of the town which you can help shape over the next few weeks. A Balbriggan Leadership Group was established in May 2018 to formulate ambitious improvements for the area that will be delivered upon.Real money is being put behind a comprehensive rejuvenation scheme for the area - and the Our Balbriggan survey will allow the people of the town to have a say in prioritising a range of improvements.From Monday November 26th onwards, you can view the proposed plans and vision for Balbriggan at a number of venues in the area or maybe attend one of the planned World Café events. Most importantly, make sure that you fill in the survey either in person at the above events, in Balbriggan Library, or online at Balbriggan.ie. Keep an eye out on social media for the survey link.

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Balbriggan is a seaside area of natural beauty that will shine over the next few years - and you can see an example of the possibilities with the accompanying image. It is fitting that next year will see Balbriggan star as the featured town in RTE TV’s Operation Transformation, as 2019 will also be the start of a positive programme of change for the town. The proposals include a large event/market space off Quay Street which will contain a linear park at the heart of Balbriggan alongside the Bracken River. It will feature tiered seating for events and stall structures for weekly markets, with the historical stone structure of the Railway Viaduct and Balbriggan Harbour as a spectacular backdrop. Please get involved, have your say, take our survey and imagine the possibilities.

CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations!! Justin Kealy, The links Donabate, Co. Dublin

YOU ARE OUR CROSSWORD COMPETITION WINNER THIS MONTH THE HIDDEN WORD WAS – Donabate

Call John Kelly Office - (041) 984 5205 Mobile – 086 6073315 www.turbodrain.ie Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Fashion

By Fashion Editor Carina Cunningham

Beautifully small and elegantly tall ladies day out As the Christmas Rush soon approaches I’m looking in all the big brand shop windows in awe of all that sparkles and shines.Christmas Office party’s, Christmas dinners, socializing- pub to club ! This is that season ! Like it or not it’s going ahead as always ! ‘Tis the season to be jolly’ and sure we all make an extra effort this time of the year. I would like to introduce you to both our lovely models , Denisa Guinan in her early forties , Tall and strikingly attractive and Yvonne O’Reilly mid fifties our sallow skinned Petit beauty. Both up for a day of Christmas styling head to toe. We started our mornings make over in Peter Marks hair salon.Main St Swords Nikolai Krivoluski stylist gave both our ladies a stunning look. Nikolai came third in Social and Personal magazine last year in their Photographic Award category and this year he’s representing Peter Marks for the Color Trophy at The Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge -best of luck to him with this.It was a real treat to have Nikolai style both my ladies.Nikolai was using this really cool curler. It’s called The GHD Oricle Curler retails at €199 and has been launched here in Ireland before any other country. Exclusively a Peter Marks product that first straightens and then curls the hair ! Very cool. It can be bought on line at www.petermark.ie and nationwide in their salons. After our ladies had their hair styled we went to Inglot in The Pavilions where i had booked my two ladies with the lovely Inglot make up artists. Sophie O’Kelly had been assigned to Yvonne and Roisin Agnew worked on Denisa. The MUA’s did a superb job with stunning results. The products in Inglot are very well known for extremely good coverage. Their foundation make up was flawless plus their eye shadows have excellent pigment resulting in strong fabulous eyes. Their blushers and conturing products are fantastic quality plus they have stunning highlighters. They have a Christmas gift guide , sets starting at €32 right up to €130 for the quality Brush Collection. These are super presents for any age. The staff are so helpful and friendly and you can see this is their passion. So we have two beautiful ladies hair done make up done. Where’s next I hear you ask? At this stage I felt the right place to take my ladies shopping was CoCo Belle Boutique in Donabate. Owner Amanda Ni Tuathaill, of this gem of a Boutique, has the most amazing style. Colorful luxury collections of designs,shoes, boots, costume jewellery,and accessories. Lots of bling bling and definitely something there for everyone at the most affordable prices ! Yes she’s got the balance right. I bought a top when we were doing the shoot plus one of my ladies bought two jumpsuits. We all went home with shopping bags bulging. We had great fun doing our photo shoot inside CoCo Belle.Amanda has also dabbled in furniture, mirrors and lanterns also at fantastic prices. Yvonne is pictured here wearing a Spanish / boo hoo style red devine dress costing €69.99 and neck piece €30.00. 14 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Denisa is wearing a gold and black Versace inspired long dress costing €79.99 and shoes €20.00. Unreal prices for such stunning designs. If you haven’t been to this shop really it’s a must. My 23 yr old daughter also buys in here plus I have bought three tops , boots and fashion jewellery, as the prices are outstanding. I Hope you enjoyed this feature and my articles from last January to December. I have enjoyed our little journey in Community Local Magazines- it’s been great fun. I must thank my photographer’s Taz Smith who shot the first six month issues and Abe Neihum who finished the last six months these guys really are fantastic. Plus my Mua Momi Kay and Virginijia Vitkauskiene for hair who helped me earlier in the year with our fabulous photo shoots. Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a happy new year. Carina Cunningham.

Fashion

Style Warriors hand over €4.900 cheque to NECRET

Carina presents a cheque from The Style Warriors fundraiser to NECRET

Well we finally did it. ! Hand over Cheque day to NECRET Cancer Research. We were so excited to visit Professor Bryan Hennessy at Beaumont Hospital to hand over the cheque for €4,900 fund raised from our fabulous show. Bryan introduced us to his two leading ladies who work along side him Angela Farrelly PHD and Sinead Toomey PHD are Clinical Cancer Researchers. They both assured me that this money will go to very good use. We were in the new Smurfit Building it was actually amazing to see. The most educated people there learning and teaching all about Cancer. However Bryan nowtells me they are progressing much much quicker with successful treatments than in years past regarding Cancer and all its various connected.strains and illnesses He is one amazing person, very young to actually be a professor and such a normal kind respectful gent it was an honor to meet him. I met him at the show as he did a few minutes speech. On the night his wife also attended and she walked the catwalk and she was fantastic. They stayed for the Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

entire show which I was so delighted to see. This was a special night to remember. As for my super models I could not have done this without your very generous time not only for the show but for the fundraiser shoot I did in Ardgillan Castle. You guys and girls are so amazing and I thank each and every single one of you. I would never take you for granted your simply fantastic and I thank you all. Thanks too to the make up artists and hair stylists for giving both your time and your products. Seriously you are so so kind and I did explain to the Cancer team how lucky I was to have you all donate your time and products free. When you all could have earned a wage that fashion show day. We all did this in our own little way to help the fight against Cancer. Designers you and your models looked fantastic. Amazingly for some it was your first time, so big stage shock, but you all did it and did it so well, take a bow. To the shops, you and your models were fantastic and professional and what a balance of interesting collections. Thank you for being part of my show.

Thank you to Sponsor Ray Quinn Bathstore and More, his €1000 donation really went a long way to stage the production. Last but not least a huge thank you to my team of fantastic photographers led by Taz Smith and Co. Taz came to casting days and rounded up models nationwide who modelled on the catwalk and a huge thank you also to Aerial Martin camera man from Go Production who filmed the show from start to finish. Anna Waters here in the photo also helped so much with producing and stage management on the day with Gordon Flynn from London as stage manager. Also I must also say a huge huge thank you to one of my favorite gents in the public eye Mr Noel Cunningham who hosted the show for the second time. He has devoted his time to helping many many charities and in my eyes he’s right up there at the top. Thank you Noel. Ok that’s it folks. We did it and we did it to help others for all the right reasons. And all should be very proud of yourselves and what you all helped to achieve. Smile on and be happy. Thank you All Carina. BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Features

Thank you from Balbriggan/North Dublin Guide Dogs

Balbriggan\north county Dublin branch of guide dogs had some very successful events for the forthcoming festive season. They received great support at all of the following venues: Christmas Merchandise Sale - Millfield S.C. - which took place on 02/03 November Christmas Merchandise Sale - Supervalu Balbriggan – which took place on 22/23 November. Christmas Merchandise Sale - Tesco Rush – which took place on 24 Nov. and finally Skerries Day Care Centre on Friday 30 Nov. The branch are very grateful for your support. All of us involved in fundraising for guide dogs are total volunteers and all moneys collected goes straight to head office of guide dogs Cork to train more guide dogs for blind people and more assistance dogs for families who have a child with autism To contact the branch-become a volunteer with us send an email to guidedogsbalbriggan@gmail.com or phone-text 0857663107 The picture shows a group of guide dogs volunteers with their merchandise stand at a recent event and this is the kind of table to look out for at all of our events.The other picture is of Tom O’Neill with his guide dog Gatsby and the owner of Cuddles Pet store Balbriggan a great supporter of Irish guide dogs for the blind. 16 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Healt

Home Cook Recipes

Nuttily Nutritious Christmas Pudding!! “This is a tasty twist on the traditional Christmas pudding. It is packed full of ‘nuttylicious’ nutrition and because it is quite rich and decadent, you will find yourself feeling satisfied after 1 slice! Don’t forget to be active over the festive season too, whether it’s dancing, walking, running or ice-skating that floats your boat, be sure to fit in the fitness as much as the food!

Nuttily nutritious Christmas pudding!! Ingredients:

Makes 8x100g servings

• 200g Almonds • 100g Pecan nuts • 100g Dates • 100g Sultanas • 80g Dried figs • 150g almond butter (or just use 18 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

whatever nut butter you have, better if it is smooth) • 30g honey • 50g cocoa powder • Juice of 1 large orange • 100g dark chocolate Tip: for some added festive flavour add 1 teaspoon of each of the following spices to the dried fruit mixture to soak in overnight with the orange juice: cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg.

Method 1.Soak the dried fruit (dates, sultanas and figs) overnight in the juice from the squeezed orange. 2. Blitz the nuts using a powerful blender/bullet until all nuts are in a fine mixture. 3.Blitz the dried fruit in a food processor/blender and add into a

mixing bowl with the nut mix. 4.Add the almond butter, cocoa powder and honey into the dried fruit/ nut mixture in the bowl and mix to combine all of the ingredients together. 5.Place the mixture into a dome shaped container/mould and leave in the fridge for 3 hours. 6.Before serving, melt the dark chocolate. Turn the mould upside down on your serving plate and gently tap the top and sides in order to ease the pudding out. Then pour the melted chocolate all over the top and sides. Wishing you all a magical, merry Christmas and a fabulous, fun new year! For 1:1 clinical consultations, public health talks or workshops in preschools, primary or secondary schools and workplaces, please email: niamh@ biabites.net See my ‘Fun food’ and ‘Recipes’ albums on ‘Biabites’ Facebook for other food ideas. Niamh Arthurs, Public Health and Clinical Nutritionist” Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Local Sports

Irish Vikings Basketball Club Balbriggan

Balbriggan Basketball (Irish Vikings Club) was established in 2009 as a non profit organisation advocating integration and inclusion through sport.to the community of Balbriggan. .Initially we started out with 25 Juvenile members and are proud to say we have grown to over 200 members from ages 5 up senor mens and ladies teams from

32 nationalities. In 2017 one our U20s team won the Balbriggan Team of the Year Awards for the participation and 2nd place win in an International Tournament in Spain. Our Senior men’s team are currently top of

their leagues and juvenile teams are advancing. We welcome players for teams in the following age categories U8’s 10’s,12’s,14’s, 16;s, 18,s 20;s 3 x Senior Mens and 1 x Senior Ladies. Our training takes place in Flemington Community Centre.

Wishing our players, management and members ... A very happy and enjoyable season. :Laimingas ir malonus sezonas laimīgs un patīkams sezona szczęśliwy i przyjemny sezon

séasúr sona agus taitneamhach a dun ati igbadun akoko una temporada feliz y agradable onnellinen ja hauska kausi

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local Sports

Portrane’s Moynihan secures his place in the promised land That’s right – Mount Juliet’s Gavin Moynihan has earned his shot at redemption after grinding his way to Main Tour status right on the number at Final Stage European Tour Qualifying School in Spain.It was never going to be easy but 14 holes through his sixth and final round he was coasting with two birdies on the card before nerves inevitably took hold. Bogeys on 15 and 17 made for an anxious finale, but needing a par to win, the Dubliner duly obliged by knocking in a testing four-footer to ensure his Main Tour return. Moynihan finished qualifying on 16-under-par for the week, good enough for a share of 20th spot, with the top-25 and ties earning promotion to the Promised Land. No surprise then that relief was the overriding emotion for Gavin having come through ‘Hell Week’ unscathed. “I just had a four-footer there and it was the most nervous I’ve ever been in my life,” admitted Moynihan of the putt that secured his golden ticket to a tour that proved fruitless in his rookie season this year. There had been a noticeable upturn in Moynihan’s form coming into the Final Stage examination at Lumine Golf Club. “The last three months have been very good,” Moynihan reflected. “The first three or four months of this year I was just missing cuts by one and two and it got to me. But Valderrama

was a big turning point, a top-10 there and it was nice to keep that going here.It’s one of the most demanding golf courses I’ve ever played [Valderrama]. I finished three-under and I was top-10. There’s not many courses in the world that produce that. It was a decent field as well.But I’ve

been enjoying the game recently. I went back to the Challenge Tour hoping to find a bit of form and I did so it’s been a very positive second half of the year.” (Copy and pic courtesy of IrishGolfer.ie)

Balbriggan Rugby in the running for honours Balbriggan RFC is a long-established club serving all members of the local community. Alongside men’s and women’s teams, Balbriggan RFC has youth boys teams, youth girls team, minis, and a team for children and young adults with special needs. There is quite literally a team for everyone at the club. This season has been a very exciting one in the club. On the playing front, the men’s 1st XV have a new coaching ticket which includes new head coach, former Samoan 7’s International, Henry Bryce. The men’s team have had a great opening half to the season and currently sit on top of their Division in the Leinster League. Meanwhile, Balbriggan RFC’s women’s team, who are newly promoted to Leinster League Div 2, following their League (& Cup) win last season, are faring well lying in third place in the league table. Balbriggan’s Youths are progressing well. The Club fields teams at U13’s, U14’s, U15’s and U17’s. The U17’s who are the flagship team in the Youths set-up are already into the Leinster North East Cup Final. This year they beat Boyne A for the first time on their way to the final. The mini’s section, which caters for players from U6’s through to U12’s has has seen huge growth in numbers. In October, the clubs U12’s enjoyed playing a half-time match in the RDS, during the Leinster v Wasps match. This was an incredible opportunity for the team, and an experience that they and their families will remember for a long time to come. New players are always welcome at the club. Men’s & Women’s training, & U17’s training takes place each Tuesday & Thursday at 7.30pm Youth Boys & Girls training is every Wednesday from 7.15pm Mini’s training is every Thursday from 7pm-8pm All enquiries to info@balbrigganrfc.com 20 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Local Sports

A real sporting gem in the heart of Balbriggan!

Balbriggan Cricket Club is located at the Jack Harper Memorial Cricket Ground in Balbriggan Town park, behind St Peter and Paul’s church Balbriggan. With a thriving youth section, the club provides first class coaching and training sessions, helping every child to grow in confidence as they learn the skills of cricket in a fun, family environment. Cricket is growing at a fast pace in Ireland and is already one of the most popular sports worldwide, this bat and ball game has some unique aspects that make it especially beneficial for kids! Although the sport is mainly played in the Spring and Summer months, Balbriggan Cricket Club are committed to keeping our Youth section active and involved throughout the winter months with planned indoor training sessions.

So here’s some reasons why you should get your child involved; 1. Cricket helps boost stamina, balance and coordination Players develop good hand-eye coordination when bowling and throwing the ball and with lots of sprinting and running involved your child will gain fitness. Encouraging them to play sports, especially cricket is a great way to keep them active. In this age where gaming and entertainment can be achieved on a mobile device, children are becoming less physically active than ever before. Sadly, such behaviour is setting them up for a sedentary lifestyle later in adulthood, which can be dangerous to physical and mental well-being. 2. Playing cricket keeps your child’s brain in shape What separates cricket from many other sports is that it requires players to have impressive focus and strategic skills. So not only does it help keep your child’s body fit, it also helps keep their minds well too. 3. Cricket instils sportsmanship and discipline

The spirit of cricket makes it perfect for teaching kids the value of sportsmanship and discipline – two things that are not easily taught and appreciated in everyday situations. Players must behave properly on the field and observe fair play at all times. Exposing your child to this kind of environment will help him or her grow up as a better person, someone who respects others and conforms to the rules. 4. Cricket helps your child build social connections Balbriggan Cricket club prides itself on being an all-inclusive, welcoming, warm and friendly club, a sports club that will help your children make friends for life!

We are an all-inclusive club and welcome each and every child and parent into our club! We’d love to hear from you, contact us on Facebook: Balbriggan Cricket Club or check out our website www.balbriggancricketclub.com E:balbriggancricketclub@gmail.com or Ph. 0852218789

Balbriggan Local Magazine NEEDS YOU!

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

PHOTOGRAPHERS , LOCAL WRITERS, LOCAL REPORTERS NEEDED!! If you’re a Local and have some free time please email us on: communitylocals@gmail.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@ gmail.com before 5pm on December 16. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win €50..Good luck

22 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2018

Down

1. A place of refuge from danger or hardship. (6) 5. A poor densely populated city district. (6) 10. Landlocked Central European country. (7) 11. Even more absurd. (7) 12. A metal piece of money. (4) 13. North and South country. (5) 15. Oven for a potter. (4) 17. A short day to be married. (3) 19. Substance which separates milk into solids and liquids. (6) 21. Great birds of prey. (6) 22. Quickly, speedily. (7) 23. Woven container with handles. (6) 25. Lacking physical strength or vitality. (6) 28. A state of matter. (3) 30. Dry like a desert. (4) 31. Slippers with no fitting around the heel. (5) 32. Popular Indonesian island. (4) 35. Just the place for sport and concerts. (7) 36. Trace the shape, as of bodies at crime scenes. (7) 37. No longer frozen solid. (6) 38. Change for the worse. (6)

2. A meeting of musicians. (7) 3. Boisterous songbird. (4) 4. A field where grass is grown to be made into hay. (6) 5. Breathed noisily, as if exhausted. (6) 6. Long fish. (4) 7. A pursuit of little importance. (7) 8. Craned at the performer. (6) 9. Swimwear for men. (6) 14. A performance of music especially by a soloist. (7) 16. A cap for the French. (5) 18. A hen kept for her eggs. (5) 20. A cheap and vulgar item. (3) 21. A mischievous fairy. (3) 23. Slowly cook food with a small amount of liquid in a tightly covered pan. (6) 24. Vegetable mistakenly known for iron content. (7) 26. The sort of exercise that sets you up for the day. (7) 27. Expelled from your own country. (6) 28. Treated with adhesive, like an envelope. (6) 29. A good with faults, usually sold at a reduced price. (6) 33. A personal belief not based on proof. (4) 34. Flower supporter. (4)

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