meath herald april 2013

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Irish Dogs for the Disabled Funday in Navan Race Course - page 13

TAX ASSIST ACCOUNTANTS:Giving Tax The Axe! - see page 2

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TRIM HAS been voted as one of the top ten places in the world that can change a child’s life by US news channel CNN. The town was included in the list because of the ongoing ‘community excavations’ at the ruins of the Blackfriary.

CNN says: “Younger children get to play at a camp where they get to pick up heavy stone axes and run in chain mail. Older children will enjoy a tour of nearby Trim Castle, which starred in the movie Braveheart.” In the ongoing digs, visitors can work alongside archaeologists and geologists as part of a crash course in excavation and record their digging findings.”

The top ten comes from a recently-published book by editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveller magazine, titled ‘100 Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life.’ CNN pushed the author to whittle these choices down to his 10 most favourite locations. He said: “Travel can introduce kids to the world’s real-life wonders, changing their perspective on topics they may have only read about in books. Help them learn what interests them and inform how they navigate it as adults. It can literally change their lives.”

“What amazing architects these people were, and how remarkably old this is,” says Bellows

on Trim Castle. “It’s the quintessential castle. It’s knights, bow and arrows and blood on the ground.” Trim alongside London and The Galapagos Islands are the only three on the list outside of the US. The Blackfriary Community Archaeology Project aims to rejuvenate the Black Friary, a four acre site including the ruins of the 13th century Dominical Friary which was once a significant part of the history of the medieval town.

Hundreds of visitors are expected to travel from abroad to the site this summer and the dig was the topic of a lecture at the Smithsonian Centre in the US in January.

Trim - best place in world for kids

http://www.kvisoft.com/pdf-merger/

April 2013 The Meath Herald / www.meathherald.com To Advertise 087 316 7013 or email: [email protected]

A presentation of jerseys was made recently to Slane Wanderers underage coach Graham Gough by Cllr Wayne Harding. Team pic: Slane Wanderers under 8’s with John Troy Cllr Wayne Harding and Graham Gough

www.meathherald.com / The Meath Herald April 2013 To Advertise 087 316 7013 or email: [email protected]


Féile léinn na nÓg – the Children’s Learning Festival will take place in Navan Education Centre, Athlumney on Saturday 18th May from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. It promises to be an exciting family day, going by the large number of schools that have registered to showcase pupils’ project work at the Festival. Schools will organise the pupils on a rota basis during the day to talk about their projects to members of the public visiting their stands.

The 24 exhibiting schools represent large urban and small rural schools from Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, to Dunboyne and from Enfield to Stamullen. There is also a high representation of schools from Navan, Kells, Trim and outlying areas. The exhibitors cover the diversity of primary schools types; Special School, Catholic, Church of Ireland, Educate Together, Gaelscoileanna, a Community primary school run by Co. Meath VEC as well as one VEC post-primary school.

Participating schools to date are: St. Ultan’s Special School, Navan; Headford School, Kells; Gaelscoil na Ríthe, Dunshaughlin; Robinstown NS; St. Joseph’s Mercy NS, Navan; Moynalvey NS, Summerhill; Nobber NS; Kilbride NS, Trim; Ard Rí CNS, Navan; St. Oliver Plunkett NS, Navan; Donore NS; Dunboyne SNS; St. Stephen’s NS, Johnstown; Stamullen NS; Scoil Naomh Eoin, Navan; Gaelscoil Thulach na nÓg, Dún Bóinne; St. Mary’s NS, Enfield; St. Joseph’s NS, Kingscourt, Co. Cavan; Flowerfield NS, Navan; Gaelscoil na Cille, Ashbourne; St. Anne’s Loreto NS, Navan; Yellow Furze NS, Beauparc; Navan Educate Together NS; Beaufort College, Navan.

There will be a wide variety of themes on show, from Science Experiments, Hydraulics and Pneumatics, Energy, the Sun and Planets, Computer Programming, Healthy Eating, Fitness, Animal Habits, Personal Hygiene, Write-a-Book Project, Where we Live, Ireland in Europe, School Life etc. Each participating school will receive a commemorative certificate and plaque.

Expressing her delight at the marvellous response from the schools, Bernadette McHugh, the Director of Navan Education Centre the organisers hosting the festival, said “ we are organising the Children’s Learning festival as one of many different projects forming part of our 40th Anniversary celebrations.”

The organisers plan to have extra attractions also and these will be publicised over the coming weeks. The festival web site is www.celebratelearning.ie. Enquiries to info@celebratelearning or call Seamus at 087 2308320.

living in Baltimore for almost 10 years, the Maryland Blue Crab was king as a staple of the cuisine and a focal point of many social activities. The Irish Brown Crab is very similar to the blue crab in that it has a delicate and sweet flavour profile. Two important rules that I learned during my time in Baltimore have been applied to this Bistro Signature Starter. Firstly, do not mask the crab flavour with too many ingredients and the Golden Rule, which is commonly broken in most restaurants; do not add too much filler i.e. bread crumbs or mashed potatoes to dilute the crab taste. At the Bistro, we serve our Crab Cakes with a Vinegar Slaw and Choron Sauce, which is Bearnaise and a hint of tomato puree. At home, Marie Rose or tartar sauce are easier to prepare and work very well with the crab cakes. You can enjoy them as a starter or on a hamburger bun with the slaw on top. Enjoy.

Crab CakesIngredients:Irish Crab Meat, Steamed and chilled - 300 gramsDijon Mustard - 25 gramsChives, Chopped - ½ BunchSalt and pepper - to tasteWhole Egg, Beaten - 1 eachBread Crumbs - 30 grams (as needed)

PreParation:Add first 4 ingredients in a mixing bowl making • sure not to break up the crab meat.Add the egg then the bread crumbs in increments • till the mixture starts to bind together. Portion the cakes at 40 grams each for starters or 80 • grams for a sandwich then cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.Heat a non-stick frying pan on med-high heat, • drizzle enough cooking oil to coat the pan. Sear each side of the crab cakes until golden brown • and transfer to 180 degree oven for 5 minutes.

vinegar slawIngredients:White Cabbage, Shredded - 150 gramsRed Cabbage, Shredded - 50 gramsCider Vinegar - 20 millilitresCelery Seeds - 10 gramsSalt and pepper - to taste

Preparation:Add all ingredients together in a mixing bowl and • store in refrigerator for up to 30 minutes.

Cross Street Bistro’s Baltimore Style Crab Cakes with Vinegar Slaw

Great Response by Schoolsto Children’s Learning Festival


MEATH CO. Council is to seek funding for a second application for an N2 bypass at Slane. Local Cllr. Wayne Harding has welcomed the ‘unanimous support’ he has received after raising the issue at a recent council meeting.

He said: “In light of the information compiled by both the National Roads Authority (NRA) and Meath Co. Council, I have asked the council to immediately call on the Transport Minister Leo Varadkar to support funding for another bypass application. “A lot of work has been done since the last proposals were refused and further analysis shows that any traffic management plans in the village would just push the problem elsewhere.”

He continued: “I would like to compliment the acting county manager Brendan McGrath and the transportation team who have worked tirelessly on this. Their letter seeking a meeting with the Minister is comprehensive and shows a deep understanding of the issues in Slane as well as an empathy with the local residents.

“But I do stress that the Minister must act urgently - all information must be current when lodging another application.”

Funding sought on bypass plansBy Louise Walsh


The ancienT Eastern practice of Reflexology, a manual therapy which focuses on the feet (or hands), has recently enjoyed a surge in popularity as a modern holistic therapy to relieve pain and stress, not to mention a long list of other benefits. Reflexologists believe that different areas of the feet and hands correspond to other parts of the body and massaging them stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to heal itself.

For over 3000 years Chinese practitioners have used Reflexology to re-balance the energy, Chi or Qi, (the life force flowing through energy channels) to treat a number of things. It can work alongside conventional Western medicine to promote healing and to improve wellbeing and vitality, emotional and physical and mental health.So what does this non-intrusive complimentary therapy involve? On your first visit to a Reflexologist, you may be asked a few questions about your medical history, health issues, lifestyle and diet. This is to tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Then you remove your shoes and socks and lie down on a massage couch, plinth, or a reclining chair.

The therapist will examine your feet and then apply painless pressure all over your feet and ankles and sometimes lower legs using the thumbs and fingers. It is very relaxing but occasionally the therapist might find a tender spot which can indicate a disturbance or

blockage of energy flow. This area can be worked on a little longer to ease it out. This spot can represent one area or aspect of your body not functioning properly. One session or treatment is beneficial and a great stress-buster but if you want to work on some specific health problem, it is recommended to take 5 or 6 treatments. Each treatment lasts approximately one hour with children having a shorter session. The first session can take a few minutes longer to do a short consultation.

The foot has reflex zones containing many nerve endings that correspond to all the organs, systems etc. of the body. Reflexology stimulates the body to heal itself, improving circulation, reducing tension, stress and pain and restoring natural balance or homeostasis. It regenerates energy, calms you down, helps sleeping, appetite and many more things including P.M.S., menopause symptoms, back ache and sinus. The list is long and the benefits are many.

If you choose Reflexology, make sure your therapist is fully qualified and insured and is a member of a governing body like the Irish Reflexologists’ Institute or similar, which supports professionally qualified practitioners and aims to increase knowledge, update skills with continuous professional development, proving courses, seminars and such.

Helene Meade, Navan.

REFLEXOLOGY

Order Of Malta fundraiserin the Railway Bar, Kells


Victim attackedfor offering help

New school for Meath? Organic Gardeners

Run, Run

By Louise Walsh

A WOULD-BE helper was punished for his kindness when thieves assaulted and robbed him on Tuesday, March 26. The victim was walking along the Gardenrath Road at 7.35pm when a dark-coloured saloon car pulled-in in front of him. The driver called out, pretending to look for help but as soon as the man bent down to the car window, he was punched in the head and knocked to the ground.

The motorist then got out of the car and robbed a small amount of cash from the victim as he lay on the ground. The car then sped off out of the town. Unfortunately the descriptions of the car and driver are poor and Meath Crime Prevention Officer, Sgt Dean Kerins is appealing to the public for help in the case. Anyone who my have noticed anything suspicious near the entrance to Hermitage Glen estate at that time is asked to contact Kells Garda Station on 046-9280820.

Meantime in a separate incident, a large amount of horse tack was stolen from a stables in the Oristown area, near Kells on Saturday night, March 24. Thieves first broke through a shutter door to gain entry and then took an assorted amount of items such as honey and glucose, cider vinegar and electrolytes. Racing shoes plates, nebulisers, horse covers, head collars and horse meal were also taken. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kells gardai at the above number.

KILDALKEY MAY have a new school building, if plans are given the thumbs-up by Meath Co. Council. The Board of Management of St Dympna’s School has applied for planning permission for a new two-storey 12 classroom development in the village.

KELLS COMMUNITY Growers are looking for unemployed people interested in organic farming to help work on the walled garden at Headfort House with an option of gaining experience and qualifications.

Those interested can contact Patricia on 046-9293736 or [email protected]

THE ROYAL County 5km run will take place on Sunday, April 28 and runners, walkers, joggers and even crawlers are being sought!. Anyone interested in participating in the 2013 Royal County 5km should contact Meath LSP @ 046 9067337 or log onto www.meathsports.ie.


Sunday 21St of April, we see Navan Race Course open its doors to families from across the country, for a day packed with fun for the whole family. Join Baz, Ruth Scott and Bernard Dunne for some Face painting, entertainment, bouncy castles, bungy runs and of course racing, all in aid of Irish Dogs For The Disabled.

All the proceeds from this great day will benefit the work of ‘Irish Dogs for the Disabled’ www.dogsfordisabled.ie. Founded in 2007 as the first and only service in Ireland to provide specially trained assistance dogs to individuals with disabilities, it now plays a critical role in supporting the needs of children and adults, helping them to become more active member are of their community and achieve greater independence. The dogs are trained to assist with everyday tasks that are taken for granted, such as opening doors, turning on and off lights, picking up keys and even taking clothes out of the washing machine.

David Bradley, Managing Director of ‘Irish Dogs For The Disabled’, said “We are overwhelmed by the huge support that the Race Course, local community, celebrities and individuals taking part are putting into this wonderful day. The money raised from everyone involved is funding our Stability program, the only one of its kind in the world, helping children with major mobility issues, to walk independently keeping them mobile into their adult years”.

Irish Dogs for the Disabled provides a much needed service; the current waiting list exceeds three years. It is hoped that this trip will help to reduce waiting lists significantly. Darren Lawlor, General Manager Navan Race & Golf Course said, “We are delighted to be working with David & his team at ‘Irish Dogs for the Disabled’. This promises to be a great day for all the family, the race day is one of the highlights of Navan’s flat season featuring the Salsibil Stakes and there promises to great entertainment on and off the track. There has been a huge effort put into organising this day and not only do we hope it raises some much needed funds for the charity but that it also increases awareness of this great charity. When we were first approached by Linda & Stephen Farrell from Navan about working with the charity we were excited to get involved and support the charity. ”

A day of fun for the whole familyin aid of ‘Irish Dogs For The Disabled’

at Navan Race Course

Local family Linda and Stephen Farrell and son Stephen and Dog Casey pictured with celebrity, Baz Ashmawy, one of the supporters of the Charity


The swings of Irish donation figures from year to year, was highlighted by the Irish Kidney Association at the national launch of Organ Donor Awareness Week attended by the Minister for Health, Dr. James Reilly, T.D. at the Mansion House in Dublin on the 25th March. 2010 was almost a record low for organ donation, 2011 was a record high and 2012, at 17% less than the previous year, was below average. The Irish Kidney Association Chief Executive, Mr. Mark Murphy said, “I don’t know of another European country, even of a similar size population, with such wide swings in deceased donor activity”.

“Unless the required infrastructure and funding is implemented in the Republic, the Organ Donor Consent issue is irrelevant at this time as there is much more to do here before such deliberations take place.”

2012 was almost an average year for deceased organ donors at 78, down from the record set the previous year at 93, but only 2 donors off the 5 year average of 80 per year. Thanks to the generosity of 78 deceased donors and their families, 206 transplant operations took place in Ireland in 2012. 3 of the deceased donors were non heart-beating donors/cardiac death donors, following from the first one the year before. The 131 deceased donor kidney transplants, were complimented by a further 32 living donor kidney transplants and a further 3 Irish patients received specialist living donor transplants in the UK. The total of 166 kidney transplants, in the year, is above the 5 year average and is due to the increase in living donors. Mr. Mark Murphy commented that, “Replacing deceased donation by living donation is a concern. Living donation needs to remain complimentary to deceased donation - not its replacement”.

At 50, the livers transplanted were slightly less than the 5 year average of 54.2. Heart transplantation was well above average with 10 transplants being performed in 2012, up from 6 in 2011. Lung transplantation showed the greatest increase in the year with a record of 14 transplants for 2012. (10 single and 4 double lungs transplanted). This was 75% more than the 8 transplanted in 2011 and double the 5 year average of 7. A further 6 lung transplants were conducted in the UK on behalf of Irish patients. In total, 20 Irish patients received transplanted lungs last year. There are currently 1828 people in Ireland receiving dialysis treatment. In 2012 the number of patients with End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) grew by 45

or just over 1% in the year. Also presenting at the campaign launch event was Mr. Martin Doody, Chairman of the Irish Kidney Association. The patients’ organisation is celebrating 35 years since its foundation. Mr. Doody welcomed the option for applicants for the new format driving licences to tick a box indicating their willingness to be an organ donor for organ donor. He said that so far the Road Safety Authority data has revealed that 35% of applicants have ticked the box which is represented by the code, 115, on their driving licence. Mr. Doody expressed his optimism that such data collection might pave the way for the beginning of an organ donor registry.

Organ Donor Cards can be obtained by phoning the Irish Kidney Association LoCall 1890 543639 or Freetext the word DONOR to 50050. Visit website www.ika.ie It is now possible to store an organ donor card, the ‘ecard’ on Smart mobile phones. Simply search for ‘Donor ECard’ at the IPhone Store or Android Market Place. Almost 3000 people in Ireland are enjoying extended life away from hospital as a result of receiving organ transplants. There are currently over 600 people in Ireland waiting for life-saving organ transplants including heart, lung, liver, kidney and pancreas. The first successful dialysis treatment in the world took place in the Netherlands on the 17th of March, St. Patrick’s Day in 1943. Now, 70 years later 2.7 million people worldwide are being treated for kidney failure. 2.1 million of them are treated by dialysis and 600,000 of them have a kidney transplant.

Irish Donation figureshighlighted by the

Irish Kidney Association

Matthew Groarke, from Dunderry, Co Meath. His mother Catherine donated a kidney to him in June 2011. Mathew received his first kidney transplant from a deceased donor when he was just five years old. The successful transplant lasted nineteen years before Mathew had to commence dialysis treatment. Mathew is a member of the Louth Meath Branch of the Irish Kidney Association.

Ratoath couple Padraig and Olivia Mangan underwent a living kidney donor transplant operation in Novem-ber 2012. Childhood sweethearts Olivia donated a kidney to Padraig after septicaemia led to Padraig suffering kidney failure. They are pictured with RTE’s Joe Duffy who is fronting Organ Donor Awareness Week.


A mother has spoken of her family’s decision to donate her son’s organs. To help highlight the importance of organ donation, Elizabeth Bennett from Moynalty, Co. Meath shared her poignant story during Organ Donor Awareness Week which came to a close this weekend. Elizabeth said, “I cannot express the immense consolation which my family has derived from knowing that the loss of our oldest son has not been in vain as he has given the gift of renewed life to seven people”.

Elizabeth’s late son, Paul, was just 22 and a young father to Danielle (now 13) when he met his untimely death after a fall inflicted a fatal head injury in November 2001. At this time of great tragedy, Elizabeth, her husband Aidan and their children Ann, Bernard and Aideen made the selfless decision to donate Paul’s organs. He had just qualified as an electrician with the ESB and after his death, his work colleagues all decided to carry organ donor cards. Paul’s lungs, liver, heart valves, kidneys and pancreas were donated with a total of five people receiving life saving transplants and his corneas restored sight to two more people.

Elizabeth explained, “There are so many people in Ireland with organ failure who need transplants urgently. I would encourage everyone to think about organ donation as it’s a wonderful legacy not just for people who are awaiting transplants but for their families also. We took great comfort when we received letters from grateful recipients and that they are saying masses for their donor, Paul.” Elizabeth said, “I would like to give praise to the staff in the intensive care unit at Our Lady’s Hospital Navan for all their kindness and sensitivity when they cared for Paul and helped us through this difficult time and the process of donating his organs”.

Elizabeth and Aidan’s altruism and magnanimity continues to this day as both were regular blood donors and are now regular platelet donors. They also fundraise for various worthy causes and charities including the Irish Kidney Association and the Intensive Care Unit at Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan. Elizabeth and Aidan continue to spread the word about the importance of organ donation

and Elizabeth has given talks on this important topic to transition year students in a number of schools. Organ Donor Awareness Week ended this weekend. RTE Liveline presenter Joe Duffy fronted the campaign which aims to increase the number of organ donors. The annual organ donor awareness campaign is organised by the Irish Kidney Association and supported by the Irish Donor Network.

Almost 3000 people in Ireland are enjoying extended life away from hospital as a result of receiving organ transplants. There are currently over 600 people in Ireland waiting for life-saving organ transplants including heart, lung, liver, kidney and pancreas. 2012 was almost an average year for deceased organ donors at 78, down from the record set the previous year at 93, but only 2 donors off the 5 year average of 80 per year. Thanks to the generosity of 78 deceased donors and their families, 206 transplant operations took place in Ireland in 2012. 3 of the deceased donors were non heart-beating donors/cardiac death donors, following from the first one the year before.

Organ Donor Awareness Week also serves as a fundraising exercise for the Irish Kidney Association. Throughout the Week (30th March- 6th April, 2013), the Association’s volunteers were on the streets, and in shopping centres throughout the country, selling ‘forget me not flower’ emblems (the symbol of transplantation), brooches, pens and shopping trolley discs. All proceeds will go towards the Irish Kidney Association’s aid for patients on dialysis and those patients fortunate enough to have received a kidney transplant. 75% of the IKA’s funding is from non-statutory fundraising and donations. The programme includes the management of a 10 double room free accommodation facility for patients and their families in the grounds of Beaumont Hospital and holiday centres located in Tramore and Kerry, together with patient advocacy, advice, financial aid and rehabilitative work placement, health promotion and the provision of kidney patient information and education. Applicants for the new format driving licences can now tick a box indicating their willingness to be an organ donor

which is represented by code 115 on their driving licence. The Irish Kidney Association is the organisation charged

with the promotion and distribution of the organ donor card in Ireland. The patients’ organisation is celebrating 35 years since its foundation. Organ Donor Cards can also be obtained by phoning the Irish Kidney Association LoCall 1890 543639 or Freetext the word DONOR to 50050. Visit website www.ika.ie It is now possible to store an organ donor card, the ‘ecard’ on Smart mobile phones. Simply search for ‘Donor ECard’ at the IPhone Store or Android Market Place.

AwArd-winning chef, Neven Maguire, will present his renowned cookery demonstration at Dunboyne Castle Hotel on Tuesday, May 7th. The hotel is hosting the demonstration to help raise funds for local charities Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, helping children with cancer and their families, and the local Youth Suicide Prevention. With his current RTÉ TV series ‘Home Chef’ breaking viewing records for a cookery show with over 480,000 viewers, Neven is one of Ireland’s most popular chefs and has achieved numerous accolades for his skills in the kitchen as well as for MacNean House & Restaurant.

Those attending Neven’s upcoming demonstration at Dunboyne Castle Hotel will learn how to create a host of delicious dishes including Sweet Potato and Coconut Soup and Grilled Rib Eye Steak with Smoked Paprika and Red Pepper Butter. Neven will also demonstrate some his most popular desserts - his White Chocolate Coole Swane Liqueur and Lemon Cheesecake with poached berries. With a focus on using the best of Ireland’s quality, seasonal ingredients, Neven provides a host a insider cookery tips and hints throughout the evening. “I have been presenting cookery demonstrations around Ireland for many years and really enjoy it. It’s a great opportunity to teach simple, practical and delicious recipes that can be recreated at home. I am really looking forward to presenting

this demonstration in Dunboyne Castle Hotel which will benefit two excellent local charities” said Neven Maguire.

Dunboyne Castle Hotel has launched a special accommodation package for Neven’s demo which includes demo tickets, dinner at the hotel’s restaurant The Ivy and overnight with breakfast from €89.50 pps. Neven Maguire’s demonstration at Dunboyne Castle Hotel is on Tuesday, May 7th at 8 pm. Tickets, €20, available from the hotel. Call 01 801 3500 or visit www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

Mother takes consolation out of late son’s organ donation as seven people benefit

Elizabeth Bennett wearing the forget-me-not flower (the symbol of transplantation) on sale throughout the country during Organ Donor Awareness Week

Dunboyne Castle Hotel hosts demonstration by award-winning chef

to raise funds for local charities


EstablishEd in 2001, Kells People’s Resource Centre (KPRC) has served the community of Kells for the past 12 years. The resource centre is managed by a Voluntary Board of Management drawn from the local community and together with Co-ordinator Angela Murphy, they have brought the resource centre from strength to strength despite the economic downturn and funding cuts.. The centre, which is funded under the Family and Community Services Resource Centre Programme, aims to support the individual and enhance family and community life in Kells. The resource centre provides a range of support services and runs programmes in response to local needs.

There are also many social and community events provided such as tea dances, children’s art & family summer activities to encourage and support participation in community life. The resource centre often participates in awareness campaigns to highlight issues that may lead to social exclusion and isolation. The Drop-in Support Service operates on weekdays from 9.30am to 1pm dealing with upwards of 50 queries per week responding to the broad range of expressed support needs of local individuals and families. Practical support includes access to office and communication equipment, computer and internet access as well as various referrals, job seeking support and resources.

As well as a counselling service, KPRC also facilitates a wide range of outreach services including: Employment Rights Support and Information Service, Citizen’s Information Service, MABS Outreach

Service, Domestic Abuse Outreach Support Service and Jobseekers Support Service. Over the years, Kells People’s Resource Centre has supported individuals and families in the community to identify their family and local needs to collectively develop holistic responses and enhance participation in wider community life. To this end, KPRC have recently conducted a community consultation to ascertain the local concerns and needs.

Feedback from the community indicated widespread concerns around the level of local unemployment and the negative impact it is having on the wellbeing of the individual and on family life. Other issues which were of concern to local people included isolation, anti social behaviour and the misuse of alcohol and drugs and their impact on mental health. The support services of the resource centre will support the local community in addressing these issues focusing on family support and wellbeing. The recent development of a walking group has been a great addition as local people have come together to step out for their own health and wellbeing but also reporting back that the social aspect and opportunity to meet new people is a added benefit so we would encourage everyone to join. Membership is free and walks take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 9.30am and on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 8pm always starting and finishing at the resource centre.

Kells People’s Resource Centre will host a public information meeting

on Wednesday 17 April at 8pm on the issue of suicide and exploring some of the risk factors such as alcohol, drug misuse, unemployment and mental health. This is an open meeting and all are welcome. If you would like know more about the resource centre or to get involved, then come along to the Annual General Meeting on Monday 29 April 2013 at 8pm in the Resource Centre or call 046 9247161 if you are in a position to support the work of the resource centre.

Kells People’s Resource Centre12 Years of Serviceto the Community

Walk in My Shoes, supporting Mental Health fundraiser at The Central Navan

The CardiaC and Health Promotion Departments at Our Lady’s Hospital Navan which is part of the Louth Meath Hospital Group, in association with the Irish Heart Foundation, are holding a Help your Heart information evening on Thursday 2nd May 2013 at 4pm in the Ardboyne Hotel, Navan.

This is a free event and is open to the public as well as healthcare workers and voluntary agencies working with victims of stroke/heart disease. Heart disease and stroke affect almost one in three

people and there are steps that can be followed to reduce the risks. A wide range of topics will be covered during the evening including: being aware of your risks, what you can do to prevent a heart attack or stroke, update of treatments and recovery programmes, smoking cessation information/advice and healthy eating. Also how to recognise the warning signs of a stroke in your own home or workplace.

Meath Red Cross will be available to check people’s blood pressures and Meath Local Sports Partnership will have information on exercise facilities in your area. Speakers on the evening are from the hospital staff and include,

Dr K Mc Garry, Consultant Physician. (Chair •for the evening) Dr B Bourke, Consultant Physician. Dr R •Schofield,MedicalRegistrar.Ms D Gamis, Cardiac Rehabilitation •Specialist Nurse. Ms J Meredith Lynch, Smoking Cessation Specialist Nurse. Ms M Flanagan, Stroke Care Specialist Nurse and Ms J Morrissey, Dietitian, Irish Heart Foundation.

For more information please contact the Cardiac Department at Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan on 046 9078598 or the Health Promotion Coordinator on 046 9078524.


Kells loCal Heroes have issued an appeal forvolunteers for thefirstof their ‘paintingandcleaning day’ events for 2013. The voluntary group, which was established in December 2011 to give the North Meath town a facelift, will be out with tins of paint, brushes and ladders on Saturday April 20th next when it targets a number of properties on Kenlis Place also known locally as Back Street.

“Our plans to brighten up certain buildings this year has been given greater emphasis as thousands of people are expected to visit Kells on the last weekend of June for the Hay-on Wye books Festival,” said Kells Local Heroes Chairman Ken Murray. “People are expected to visit the Town who have never been here before and we want them to go away with a positive impression of Kells,” said Ken.

Last year Kells Local Heroes targeted over 30 buildings in the Town and picked up three awards

for their work. Among the buildings targeted were Fitzsimons Bakery and neighbouring building Ulster Bank on John St., Crosby’s former sweetshop on Farrell St. and various other properties on Carrick St. and Maudlin St. “The reaction we got last year in painting a number of unsightly buildings prior to the visit of actress Maureen O’Hara was fantastic.

“Such was the impact of our efforts, property owners were inspired to paint their own buildings who hitherto might not have worked on them at all,” Ken said. Next Saturday’s painting day on Kenlis Place gets underway at 9am and volunteers who wish to get involved can contact Kells Local Heroes by telephone, email, Facebook, Twitter, or by visiting the office. Kells Local Heroes,3 Church St., Kells. Tel: Ann Ryan/Michelle McCabe at 087-137-1508.Email: [email protected],Twitter: @kellsheroes.

allie MurTagh isjust18yrsoldfromNavan.Thisbravegirlisfighingcancerforthesecondtime.ShewasfirstdiagnosedshortlybeforeherLeavingcert,shegot12monthscancerfree,butsadlyayearto the day it had returned.

Treatment and travel costs a lot and the stress on Allie and her family is huge. “Fight like a girl” is a fundraiser for Allie to help with the cost of travel to and from hospital for the ongoing treatment she is getting and future operations and treatments that she may be facing. It is hoped there will be enough left to send Allie and her Family tovisit Our Lady’s House in Ephesus,Turkey.

Everyone wants to show Allie how proud of her they are 100% behind her. She still managed to sit and pass her Leaving Cert last year after going through chemo/radiotheraphy and an operation 1st time round, she’s an inspiration to everyone so please support in anyway you can.

The event is in the Palace Night club on the 18th April with lots of fun things happening, Candy Corner, Games corner, Live Music, Head shaving, Waxing and lot of great spot prizes and a weekend breakaway and anIPADisgoingtoberaffledonthenight. Tickets can be bought from The Ivy Cafe Johnstown, Energie Fitness Navan and Lilly coogans Boutique, and the Piano Bar @ the palace or at the door on the night.

Kells Local Heroesseeks volunteers

Help your HeartInformation Evening

Allie MurtaghBenefit Night

The dinner plates from the set were really big, so we started eating our dinner off the side plates instead, that way it always looked likewehad loads andwe feltmore satisfied after ourmeal. We started to cook a lot more low fat meals using more vegetables, like stir fries and things. The kids have mini portions of what we eat so it’s been great for them too. I’m really enjoying buying new clothes and not having to go for baggy things anymore. Now I can buy a nice pair of jeans and a tight top and not have to worry about buying a cardigan to cover all mylumpsandbumps. I feelfitterandhavea lotmoreenergywhich means that I can walk quicker and I’m better able to keep up with the kids.

Kevin says of his weight loss “I knew for a while that I needed to lose weight, my double chin was getting a bit more noticeable! I had tried a couple of times to do it on my own buy cutting down, but it never lasted long. Then my brother Gary who had already been to Weight Watchers, suggested that we try the‘MenOnly’classinNavan.Karenwantedtoloseweight

changeinattitude.Thefirstchangeformewasswitchingtodietsoft drinks and then myself and Karen look at what we were cooking. We made some changes and after a couple of weeks weboth found thatwe feltmoresatisfiedafterourmeals.Wedidn’t cut out everything though, we still had a few luxuries! I always enjoyed playing soccer on Monday night, so I kept that up and I also go for a cycle when I can.Since losing the weight, Ifeelalotfitterandplayingfootballismucheasier;Icangoalot longer before feeling puffed. Since losing weight I feel a lot moreconfident.Before,whenIwentoutatnight;evenifIwaswearing nice clothes I never felt really comfortable in them, now all thathas changed. I cannowwear shirts thathaven’tfittedsince college!

Both Kevin and Karen attend the Weight Watchers class in the Ardboyne Hotel in Navan. There are 2 new classes in Navan, Friday at 12.30 with Ger and Sat @ 11.00 with Linda, both in the function room in Ryans on Trimgate Street.

NAME: Karen Lusk FROM: Johnstown, NavanWAS: 9 st 13 ½ lbs / 63kg NOW: 8 st 4 ½ lbs /52.8kgLOST: 1 st 9 lbs / 10.4kg

NAME: Kevin LuskFROM: Johnstown, NavanWAS: 13 st ½ lb / 82.6kgNOW: 11 st ½ lb / 69.9kgLOST: 2 st / 12.7kg

Karen Before Kevin Before

After

Karen says “It was after myself and Kevin had been to a friend’s thirtieth birthday that I felt I needed to do something about my weight. We were looking back at the photos – I thought I looked great on the night, but when I saw the photos I thought I looked dreadful! Myself, Kevin and Kevin’s brother, Gary, all got talking about it and we decided we’d lose weight together. We joined in June 2008 just before the Bank Holiday. It suited me right from the start because it was more about cutting back on certain foods rather than completely cutting them out.

Before we joined Weight Watchers, we had just bought a new set of crockery.

so we all decided to give it a go.We planned to join the June Bank Holiday weekend but I wasn’t too keen. Meath were playing a match and I had a BBQ planned with some friends, so we had a big weekend ahead. Aside from all that I felt really sceptical about the whole thing; I really wasn’t sure it wouldwork for me. My brother practically had to push me through the door! When I went back after the firstweek,Ihadstayedthesameweight,butthatwas after a full weekend of drinking and eating, so I began to wonder how much I would’ve put on had I not followed the programme for the rest of the week. This made me think that I could really make it work, so it was a complete


THE ovErsEas property market was badly hit by the economic crisis leaving many Irish investors with apartments and villas that are now costing more than they can afford. But despite the continuing slump in Europe there’s still a demand for good properties in prime locations from cash-rich Russians looking to develop their portfolios in sun drenched countries like Bulgaria, Spain and Turkey.

Up to now, the difficulty has been matching up these potential buyers with the property owners. After all, for most of the year the apartments and villas are either lying empty or being rented out and the owners are thousands of miles away in Ireland, blissfully unaware that there may be a solution to their dilemma. But an Irish owned firm has come up with an answer to the problem. Extra Sales is one of the few companies involved in property that has actually grown during the recession, and the secret of its success is its expertise in Russia.

Extra Sales has a developing network of Russian agents connected with investors looking to put their money in bricks and mortar in good European destinations. They’ve already sold dozens of properties owned by Irish investors who could no longer afford their upkeep or the mortgage payments. It’s been a Godsend for those who thought that it was impossible to offload their overseas investment in the current climate.

And the good news is that there’s no sign of this potential lifeline ending anytime soon. Extra Sales are now looking for more Irish owned properties in holiday destinations like Bulgaria, Spain, Turkey and Portugal for Russian buyers. In 2010 Russians were responsible for close to

half of all foreign property sales in Bulgaria, spending a mind-boggling €5.7 billion euro. And prices are holding up surprisingly well in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, where there’s now a shortage of properties for Russian investors.The attraction to overseas property is exactly the same as it was for Irish investors a decade ago. Russian buyers are looking for good summer and winter holiday resorts, beaches, culture and a relaxed lifestyle.

“They want good quality properties in decent locations, like the ones bought by Irish investors during the boom,” Lynch explains. “Many Irish owners now need to sell as they can’t afford to maintain their property or they’re stuck with an unaffordable mortgage. “Russia offers the best prospect of finding a buyer and we have the contacts and experience that can find them, and get the best price available.” Over the past five years, the changing overseas property landscape has seen Extra Sales move from sales to Irish and British buyers to an intense focus on the Russian market.

The company has developed an expert, multi-lingual network operating in several countries and works with strategic partners throughout all of Russia. There’s now also signs of an emerging demand from Scandinavian countries and Extra Sales has established links into that market too. It could all amount to a lifeline at last for overseas property owners in Ireland, struggling to offload their overseas property and faced with an increasingly shrinking pool of potential buyers.

• Extra Sales can be contacted on 01-4847033 or visit the company’s new website at www.extrasales.ie for more information.

Extra Sales - Providing Unrivalled Access To Russia’s Overseas Property Market

Extra Sales staff - John Lynch and Colin Horan

Podge McNamee from Kells on guitar


HamsandwicH have made wonderful progress over the past 10 years but to be selected to perform with Bon Jovi at Slane Castle in June really is an amazing achievement!

Yes we really are over the moon about it! It’s an awesome way to celebrate our tenth anniversary as a band.Sometimes I feel like pinching myself to check if it really is true! When my dad showed me his T-shirt from the very first Slane concert in 1982,with bands such as Thin Lizzy and U2 on the bill, it began to sink in!

It really is all happening for HamsandwicH at the moment with your song “Models” being chosen as the soundtrack for Discover Ireland’s TV and Radio campaign for The Gathering 2013! A band as big as The Cranberries were chosen for previous publicity!

We were thrilled that our song was chosen and it will be great exposure for the band..”Models” is also a personal favourite of mine.

The band’s roots are in Kells and Meath but you speak with a soft Dublin accent!

Yes I have to admit that I’m the only one not from Meath but I’m told I drift into the Kells accent a lot (so I do!!)! For the record Podge McNamee and Ollie Murphy are from the town of Kells while Brian Darcy is from Dunderry and David McEnroe is from Ballinlough.

How did it come about that Bono gave his opinion on the band’s name?

Our drummer, Ollie Murphy,bumped into him at the Chilli Peppers gig and was telling him about our band. Bono seemed really interested at first but couldn’t stop laughing at the name and told Ollie that we might be better off changing it !

Your annual Christmas concert at The Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells has become the gig of the year for many people!

Yes it’s always deadly in Kells-it feels like a real homecoming gig.We’ve always got a great reaction playing the Headfort and we usually create a bit of mayhem by the end

of the night!What other venues do you prefer to play?We’ve played Whelan’s so many times that it feels like our

second home !Then playing the Academy a few times has been so cool. Playing festivals like the Electric Picnic, Glastonbury, Reading, Leeds (and last year Banicassim in Spain supporting Florence and The Machine) are equally memorable, but The Popkomm Festival in Berlin would stand out for me as the coolest of all the festivals..

You always look like you really enjoy playing live! That pic of Podge crowd surfing says it all!

Yeah we really do have a blast playing live.Apart from the songs, we love to have a bit of banter on stage!

Do you ever get nervous playing in front of such huge audiences at festivals etc?

Yes always, but the nervousness soon changes into such amazing energy and it works in our favour after a short while!

You played a high profile gig for New Year’s Eve in College Green in Dublin, alongside Imelda May.

The crowd was fantastic but I’ll probably remember just how cold it was more than anything!

The band have received many awards,including “Ones to Watch”by The Sunday Times and The Meteors Hope for 2008. How was that one chosen?

The 2 FM (RTE) listeners voted for us ahead of four other Irish bands for the award.

You’ ve released two albums so far “Carry the Meek” in 2008 and “White Fox” in 2010, have you any plans to record a third?

Yes we are currently writing new songs and will release a single for the summer and our third album in September this year. www.hamsandwichmusic.net

Kells Band “HamsandwicH”to support Bon Jovi at Slane!

*Band’s Song “Models” chosen for 2013 Discover Ireland Campaign *Bono once suggested an immediate change of name for the band!!

INTERVIEW WITH LEAD SINGER NIAMH FARRELL

HamsandwicH Live at the Academy in Dublin

Band feature in Hot Press

HamSandwich ‘s Podge crowd surfing at the Electric PicnicCheck out Meath Herald Facebook Page for

competition to win both HamsandwicH albums.


Section ‘A’ Boys (33 small schools entered)Winners Rathkenny NS

Runners-Up Drumconrath NS

Section ‘A’ Girls(41 small/medium sized schools )

Winners Skryne NSRunners-Up Gaelscoil Éanna (Navan)

Section ‘B’ Boys(56 teams from medium sized schools)

Winners KilcloonRunners-Up Boyerstown

Section ‘B’ Girls(35 teams from large schools )

Winners St.Seachnall’s DunshaughlinRunners-Up O’Growney NS Athboy

Section C Boys(35 teams from large schools)Winners St.Michael’s TrimRunners-Up Laytown NS

21st Anniversary of FAI Schools Meath Record 200 teams play in Biggest 5-a-side in Ireland

Drogheda Utd player Cathal Brady (from Dunboyne) presents trophy to Aaron Lynch, captain St.Michael’s Trim

Kilcloon captain Ross Banahan receives trophy from Cathal Brady

Meath Runners-Up in Section A for medium sized schools Gaelscoil Eanna with Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath)

Meath Champions, Girls from St.Seachnall’s (Dunshaughlin),Winners of Large schools section with Mark Scanlon(FAI) teacher Catherine McCormack, Cathal Brady & Paul Holland

Meath Runners-Up Laytown in Section C for Large School with L to R Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath) Cathal Brady (Drogheda Utd) teacher Orla Sheridan & Paul Holland

Meath Runners-Up in Section B for medium sized schools, Boyerstown NS, with Mark Scanon (FAI Meath) and Cathal Brady (Drogheda Utd)

Meath Champions Rathkenny NS Winners Section A Boys for small schools with Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath) Cathal Brady (Drogheda) & Paul Holland (FAI Schools Meath Co-ordinator)

Meath Runners-Up, Girls from O’Growney NS Athboy with Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath) & Cathal Brady (Drogheda Utd)

Meath Champions St.Colmcille’s NS Skryne with manager Martin Kennedy (left) & Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath)

Meath Runners -Up (Small Schools Section A) Drumconrath NS with Cathal Brady (Drogheda Utd)

Meath Winners Section C Boys for Large Schools, St.Michael’s Trim, with Mark Scanlon (FAI Meath), teacher Eoin Joyce & Drogheda Utd Player Cathal Brady

Meath Champions Kilcloon NS Winners of Section B Boys for medium-sized schools with L to R Mark Scanlon, coach Eoghan Kiernan, Cathal Brady & Paul Holland

AVIVA HEALTH FAI PRIMARY SCHOOLS 5s 2013


A CO. Meath town has gone into the wine business in a joint intitiative which will also see the export of Navan furniture to Canada. Navan and its namesake in Ontario will boost each other’s products in the novel project which was launched at the weekend. The Navan2Navan group is planning to import ten different types of wine from the Canadian town of Navan to sell in local shops in Meath. The Domaine Perrault winery is sited on the Trim Road in Navan, Canada and is owned by Denis and Lyse Perrault.

In the coming weeks, furniture makers ‘Dancing Don’ from the Canadian town will also travel to Ireland to assess buying goods made here. The move has developed from links forged between the two places through Navan2Navan in recent years. The Ontario village was named and established in the 1800s by Meath emigrant Michael O’Meara. Alike Navan in Co. Meath, it also the place names of Trim Road, Fair Green and even a St Mary’s Church. Residents of the two Navans have travelled to each other on regular visits and the Irish group were guests of honour at their Canadian sibling’s 150th anniversary.

In the coming months, the Meath town is expecting to welcome at least 40 Canadians to the town in relation to this joint trading venture. Navan2Navan hopes to further develop cultural, enterprise and social links between the two places

in the coming times. According to Navan2Navan’s chief organiser Paddy Pryle, the group also hope to import maple syrup and export Meath’s Lir Chocolates at a later date. “This is great news and what it’s all about. Over the years, Navan2Navan has formed great friendships with the people in Canada and now we’re going to help each other out. “We’re starting off with wine and furniture and hopefully this will be extended to maple syrup and chocolates at a later date.”

It is hoped the wine will be on sale in Meath before the end of the summer.

MEATH’S PRESENT Co. manager Brendan McGrath has been offered the position of the new Galway city manager. Members of the council are expected to officially ratify Mr McGrath at a meeting on Monday. He has already been recommended for the job by the public appointments service and is believed to have accepted the post.

Mr McGrath took up the role of Meath Co. Manager after the retirement of Tom Dowling last year. It is expected that this job will now be filled by current Leitrim Co. Manager and Meath native Jackie Maguire. Before coming to Meath, Mr McGrath worked in Kildare, Roscommon and Wexford Co. Councils as well as Ballinasloe town council. He was also the town and area manager of Kells as well as director of services within Meath Co. Council.

A DOUBLE lung transplant, just weeks before the birth of his first child! – Paul Wynne doesn’t do monumental life-changing moments by halves! It’s only two months since the Laytown man underwent the eight-hour surgery and he is already looking forward to chasing his little girl around the house – when the 5 week old learns to walk, that is.

Only 28, Paul had been waiting for the operation for 13 years as his lungs gradually deteriorated due to Cystic Fibrosis. In recent times, he couldn’t travel even small distances without an oxygen supply and taking a small flight of stairs would leave him breathless. He said: “If I had to be out of the house at 7am, I had to get up at 5.30am. Even putting on a pair of socks took time and a huge effort and there was no way I could run for a train.” The operation proved an emotional whirlwind for Paul and his first clear breath left him overwhelmed.

“A little over 24 hours after the operation and the medical staff had me out by the bed and marching on the spot. “The fact that I could breathe was overwhelming and I just started crying.” However, it wasn’t the only emotional event Paul had to face. Just 18 days after the operation, his wife Ciara gave birth to their first daughter Ella. “I had been in St Vincent’s Hospital since November so Ciara had to travel up and down to the hospital from Laytown while heavily pregnant. She’s great. “I’m still a bit apprehensive of running at the minute but hopefully this will pass and I’ll be running around after Ella, who is just beautiful.”After the operation, Paul still has to be careful and has to wear a face mask in crowds, in case of picking up infection. He also has to follow a stringent diet.

He will never know the circumstances of his donor’s death and believes he will only be told their first name, gender and age. “Someone had to make that tough

decision to donate a loved one’s organs so that someone else could go on and I’m mindful of that and thankful to those people.” However Paul is now all about looking forward to his new life with his new daughter and wife. The Organ Donor Awareness Week runs until April 6 and is organised by the Irish Kidney Association (IKA) and supported by the Irish Donor Network.

Donation figures have swung from one extreme to the other in recent years. 2010 was almost a record low, 2011 was a record high (93 donations) and last year was below average with a drop of 17pc on the previous year. This resulted in 78 donations; According to the IKA: “The willingness of the Irish public to donate is not the problem when it comes to organ donation. It is the lack of the required infrastructure, an organ donor registry and the employment of fully-trained organ donor co-ordinators in all our hospitals.” “Thanks to the generosity of 78 deceased donors and their families, 206 transplant operations took place in Ireland in 2012.

Last year, there were 166 kidney transplants, 60 liver transplants, 10 heart transplants and a record 14 lung transplants. Six more Irish patients received new lungs in the UK. There are currently 1828 people in Ireland receiving dialysis treatment. There are also 600 people waiting for life-saving organ transplants including heart, lung, liver, kidney and pancreas at present. All groups involved welcomed the option for applicants I the new format driving licences to tick a box indicating their willingness to be an organ donor. During the coming week, the Irish Kidney Association will be selling ‘forget me not’ brooches, pens and shopping trolley discs at numerous locations throughout the country.

Organ donor cards can be obtained by phoning the IKA at 1890 543 639 or free text the work DONOR to 50050.

Paul Wynne (right) and his wife Ciara and baby Ella with Joe DuffyPaul Wynne has suffered from Cystic Fibrosis all through his childhood.

His long awaited double lung transplant came in January this year. Soon after this happy event another joyful event took place when his wife Ciara gave birth to their first child, Ella.

Co. Meath to tradeWine for furniture

Paul breathes new life - twice

Meath Co. Manager on way to Galway

By Louise Walsh By Louise Walsh

By Louise Walsh

His Excellency Loyola Hearn Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Frank Harrington (Vice-Chair Navan Chamber of Commerce)

JACkSONS BARBERS is one of the most established in Navan and is synmominous with quality when it comes to mens hair care. The business is owned and managed by Lynn Jackson. This year sees Jacksons celebrate a major milestone with 10 years of business in the town. Lynn is pictured with her staff at a party to mark the event.


Over the last twelve months we have covered pretty much everything in the needs of a bride and groom. What they need for their big day to make it that extra bit special and a day that Family and friends will remember. I have been privileged to be involved in setting up a local wedding referral Suppliers group. The purpose of this group is to put together a local group of professional wedding suppliers who can refer business to each other and in doing so offer a discount to the bride and groom.

We have called the wedding suppliers group elite wedding wrapped up. This group can offer you a photographer, Professional make-up, hair dressing, live music, DJ, Cakes, flowers and most importantly the wedding dress. They also have contacts for car hire and rental of grooms suits. We live in a world where everything is very expensive, so this group have joined forces, refer business to each other from their enquires and also offer a discount. So much so that if you use all the suppliers in the group you can achieve a massive 40% discount for your wedding supplies.

Let me introduce the group whom I know you will find very useful if you are getting married soon.

1) Serendipity Style- The perfect fit, Irelands leading bridal boutique. They stock all leading designer gowns and accessories for all your wedding party. Tel:049 8547213www.serendipty-style.com.

2) Bouquets 2 Banquets, Suppliers of bridal Flowers, Church flowers,receptionFlowers,Button holes and wedding Cakes: John Hoyne 087 9946974www.bouquets2banquets.ie

3) Lighting strikes band are an experienced, established and professional wedding band with male and female vocals and an exciting stage show. Tel: 087 2590925www.lightingstrikesband.ie

4) Stevie dee, wedding dj,Irelands Premier wedding dj, pre wedding meet, Playlists include bride, groom and guests favourites, professional sound and lightingwww.djsteviedee.com

5) Sandra McQuade, Hairdressing, She will ensure that you look your very best on your wedding day. Her high level of expertise will Guarantee that your hair complements the overall Look. Tel: 0861720422.

6) Clare Cooney, Professional make-up artist, creates a natural, flawlesslook in the comfort of the brides, own environment that lasts the whole wedding dayTel: 087 7929694

7) Finbar O’Donoghue Photography-Professional photography and video-Contempory Casual and posed. Recommeded by top hotels- Required by discerning Couples: Contact 049 4361027

All of the above suppliers are professional and offer an elite service to all their clients. Don’t be afraid to give any of them a call, let them know you seen the article in the Meath Herald And they will offer you a discount. We hope to see more of these guys in next month’s herald.

Our wedding supplement next month promises to be special.Stevie Dee Wedding Planner and Dj 086 2504212.

Stevie Dee, Wedding Planner & DJTel: 086 250 4212


At the Traditional Music night on 16th March, organised by Frankie Bruton and held at the Village Inn in Slane, the St Erc’s Conference of the SVP raised €235 thanks to the very kind generosity of those present on the night. We hope that everyone enjoyed the evening as much as we did ! These proceeds of the Raffle and donations will be used to help those in need in the local area. To contact St Erc’s Conference SVP, phone 086-0339800 and be assured that all contacts and requests are dealt with in the strictest of confidence.

Traditional Music night on 16th March 2013, organised by Frankie Bruton in aid of St Erc’s Conference SVP

held at the Village Inn in Slane

Cultural Companions Meath:Grow Happy!

To coincide with the 2013 Bealtaine Festival, Solstice Arts Centre, Meath County Council Arts Office and Meath Library Service will launch the first ‘Cultural Companions’ initiative for County Meath. All are welcome to attend the Afternoon Tea Launch on Wednesday, 24th April at 2pm in Solstice Arts Centre, Navan. The initiative will be opened by Leas Cathaoirleach, Cllr Jimmy Fegan and there will be music from cellist Grainne Hope.

Many of us would probably go to a lot more plays, films, concerts and exhibitions if only we had someone with the know-how, transport or shared interest to get us going! That’s where ‘Cultural Companions’ comes in. Based on Age & Opportunity’s highly successful Cultural Companions initiative in Dublin, Cultural Companions Meath aims to provide increased opportunities for older people to engage with the county’s vibrant cultural scene. The initiative will create a local network of like-minded people with an interest in the arts. There is an emphasis on peer support and independence, so Cultural Companions can sign up to become part of the larger network and attend Cultural Companions events throughout the year, or just socialise independently through the Cultural Companions Directory!

The Launch at Solstice will provide an opportunity to socialise over tea, discuss which free Bealtaine events you will attend, and learn what other ticketed events are coming up at Solstice and other venues throughout the year! Bealtaine Festival events include several free performances from 24th April – 22nd May. What does it cost to join up Cultural Companions Meath? Nothing! You can simply sign up, socialise, attend free Bealtaine Festival events and keep abreast of other ticketed events throughout the year! If you are interested in attending the Launch on 24th April or signing up to become a Cultural Companion please contact [email protected] or Solstice Box Office on 0469092300.


One wOrd, wow! Once again the IYMAs Meath area has done more than simply impress a pleasing and supportive crowd. The talent that is witnessed at the IYMAs each year never ceases to amaze...if anything, it only gets better! And the April 4thAcoustic – Open Mic Night session, at the Meet & Eat Youth Café, Navan, was no exception. With admission to the gig only €3, the Youth Café filled out its seats quickly. There was a buzz of excitement, both from the crowd and the musicians themselves, not to mention the anticipation that began to build during the sound checking.

Each act had 3-5 songs to play. The first act on was “Rhyino” on vocals and acoustic guitar. With a charismatic introduction to each song Rhyino really interacted with the crowd. Later on in the evening “Rhyino” performed a duet with Aaron Murray, whose first time it was to perform in front of a crowd. Well done guys. A powerful performance was given by “Roses from Rhea”. With Tara on vocals, Mark on drums, Gary on guitar and Eanna playing bass. The female fronted band opted to replace their usual line up of bass and electric guitar for the more appropriate set of two acoustic guitars, however sticking with the drums therefore giving the band their usual effective, dynamic sound.

A different set-up but good performance was given to us by the two boys, Luke Kelly and Christian Keane, from Beasty and the Sugar. With Luke on bass and Christian on guitar and vocals, the boys jammed out covers along with a couple of their own original songs. After “Beastie and the Sugar” we had Lee, Jay, Alan and Cormac as Recovery taking the stage. The lads really gave a tenacious performance considering that two of the songs they performed as a band, they hadn’t jammed them out together before! “Recovery” also performed their well-known original “Rise Again”, but this time they swapped the heavy dynamics of the song for an acoustic ambience quality instead.

“Cancel Tomorrow” took the stage opening with with an acoustic cover of “Always Attract” with Jay on acoustic guitar and us both on vocals for the duet. Then the current line-up of myself on lead vocals, Alan on drums, Cormac and Andrew on guitar, with Jay also on bass and backing/shared vocals

followed with the usual Pop-Punk attainment. Ending the night was “Red Riot” with Jessica Halford on lead vocals and guitar, Darren on drums, Andrew on lead guitar and Greg Halford on bass. The group won ‘best song’ in the recent Swan Lane gig, which Niamh Crowter (who won ‘best act’) will be performing in the IYMAs Dublin gig which will take place April 27th. The band put on a strong performance and, as always, had an indubitable reaction from the crowd.

All-in-all it was an absolutelyrocking night enjoyed by everyone. A special thanks to those that participated and attended on the night. To staff and volunteers at Meath Youth Federation, who have ensured that this event is accessible to young acts for the past five years and continue to support the development of the IYMAs in Meath.

Looking forward to the next one which takes place on Thursday 18th April from 7pm to 9.30pm at the Meet & Eat Youth Café in Navan, Entry at door €3. For further details contact Mark or Jimmy on 046 9022707 or email [email protected]

MY Fed Music acts prepare for build up to Irish Youth Music Awards

Out & About in Peters Bar Dunshaughlin

Rebekah and Jay from “Cancel Tomorrow” Ryan “Rhyino” Farrell.

meath herald april 2013

Documents

exhibiting schools

trim best place

meath herald

tour of nearby trim

large number of schools

small rural schools

high representation

navan race course page