Balbriggan Local V9I4-FEB 2024 by Irish Media Group

Cllr.Tony

MURPHY INDEPENDENT

086 814 0994

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL Your Community News

E E R F

Volume 9 Issue 4 February 2024

€50 crosswor d competiti on inside

Balbriggan Millfield Shopping Centre Tel: 01 883 4150

St. Brigids’ Weekend Music Events Dinner & Show Tickets €55 plus booking fee Includes: 3 Course Meal Tribute Show DJ until late SCAN QR CODE FOR MORE INFO

Reduced Bedroom rates available for ticket holders BOOK NOW https://www.citynorthhotel.com/en/music-events/ TEL: +353 1 6906666 E: events@citynorthhotel.com

Our Team Local News

Editor E. communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Advertising

Sean Maguire T. 087 915 9052 E. seanmaguire@irishmediagroup.ie

Production

Tim Evans E. communitylocalsdesigner@gmail.com

Balbriggan Local Magazine E: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com Facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal

Designated Pick up Points

Supervalu Balbriggan, Lidl Balbriggan Tesco, Millfield S.C, Balbriggan Dunnes Stores, Castlemill S.C Bank of Ireland, Balbriggan Published by

IRISHMEDIAGROUP publishing | design | print | web

Love is in the air once again this February! There is an old saying that ‘Love makes the world go around,’ and every year in February people seem to be reminded of that as Valentine’s Day comes around. However, love is not only for the individual but also for the community we live in and all the diverse people we live amongst. The old and infirm through age, the young and disabled either mentally or physically. Those who are struggling with making ends meet, those who have lost their jobs, those who have no home and all those who care for them. The love shown to those people, the helping hand and words of encouragement from the voluntary sector right across Fingal and beyond throughout this country cannot be underestimated. The countless hours of planning ad preparation, of logistical pondering and of persuasion and cajoling of the statutory sector to help goes unheralded. That is a fact of life in our society, yet those self-same volunteers across hundreds of groups continue to provide a service that gives love as well as support to help those less fortunate than themselves. Those of us involved in the ‘Local Magazine ‘team come from the voluntary/community sector and appreciate this more than most. We have been to homes which need help and did our best to improve things, we have rolled up our sleeves and sought to improve people’s lot in life. Not through any egotistical notion but through love for other human beings. A love that manifests itself in many ways every day in our community. Through unseen good deeds by our wonderful business community and retailers who quietly without fanfare help those most in need. Through our voluntary/community and sporting groups who raise funds for worthy causes and through those working in the caring sector. So, you see, love is a very small word with a huge meaning, and its impact across our community is immense. I sincerely hope each and every one of you experiences love this St Valentine’s Day and in turn you send love in some way to all of us in our community. Happy Valentine’s Day from the Locals team

Balbriggan Local Disclaimer

Every effort is made by Balbriggan Local Magazine to ensure that the information is correct and will not be held responsible for any advertisement errors. Balbriggan Local reserves the right to decline, suspend or omit any advertisement or article submitted. No liability can be accepted by Balbriggan Local for any printing errors in advertisements or otherwise.

STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition

www.irishmediagroup.ie

Local Solicitor has moved but still a great service! Tel. No.: 01 8438138, Fax. No.: 01 8071957, Web.: www.localsolicitor.ie, Email.: liam@localsolicitor.ie

Top Floor, Town Centre, Lusk, County Dublin. Tel. No.: 01 8438138 Contact us: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Local News

Balbriggan Meals on Wheels - Community Heroes of the Year Balbriggan Meals on Wheels were thrilled to be awarded 2023 Community Heroes of the Year at Balbriggan Town Awards at the end of the year. We would like to extend a huge gratitude to everyone involved in the Town Awards for this recognition. It is a wonderful acknowledgement of the work of our wonderful team of Volunteers who work tirelessly to help us out at all levels within our organisation. Our volunteer directors, drivers, kitchen assistants and our fundraising committee all donate their very valuable time to contribute to the smooth running of Balbriggan Meals on Wheels.We also would like to extend an enormous thank you to all those who, throughout the year, fundraised for us, gave us monetary donations, attended our fundraising events and contributed to our food appeals. To all those local businesses, organisations and individuals who helped us in any way, we are extremely grateful. Without your help we could not keep the service going. We look forward to serving the community of Balbriggan throughout 2024.

The Balbriggan Town Awards - Community Heroes Award being presented to Alice Davis, Balbriggan Meals on Wheels by Cllr Grainne Maguire. (Photo credit - Balbriggan Tourist Office).

+353 87 187 6646

Brendan.Ryan@cllrs.ﬁngal.ie

@BrendanRyanNo1

Cllr Brendan Ryan In Combined Clubs, Balbriggan Every Saturday at 10 am

Except Bank Holiday Weekends No appointment necessary

Serving The People of Balbriggan 4

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Local News

Balbriggan Feis is coming very soon – are you entering? Balbriggan Feis syllabus and Bracken Court Hotel accommodation offer is now available (please see our attached photo) The Timetable of events will be confirmed on FB when WeFeis entries close on February 2nd 2024. The Organisers have also asked if all perpetual prize winners can please arrange to return their prizes to Damien & Ann before the Feis please? They have also asked that teachers are reminded to pre-enter figure teams.

Council must provide more four bedroom houses in Balbriggan Councillor Brendan Ryan (Labour) has been highlighting the additional problems facing housing applicants with larger families in the Balbriggan area over the last number of months. “It is bad enough having to wait up to ten or twelve years on a waiting list to get to an offer zone before being told that you have to wait several years longer because there are no four bedroom units available” he said. “This is the reality for many housing applicants in Balbriggan today” he added. Cllr Ryan added, “I am pushing for more four bedroom units to be provided in every housing development that is planned for Balbriggan in the near future to ensure that applicants with larger families are not disadvantaged. I have also made the case that three bedroom houses could be offered, at least on a temporary basis, until the bigger houses come on stream.”

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 Contact us: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Finance

How To Avoid Capital Acquisition Tax By Dave Kavanagh

Capital Acquisition Tax includes Inheritance Tax and Gift Tax. In 2022 in Ireland, there was over €600 million collected in Capital Acquisition Tax. It also includes estates that may have been taxed in previous generations. For example, if someone left an estate worth €1,000,000 to an only daughter, she would (in the current tax year) have a tax bill of almost €220,000. After she pays the bill and puts what’s left in the bank, any interest is taxed (DIRT). Guess what happens when she passes and leaves her estate behind? It’s taxed again! Spouses can leave any amount to each other tax free. After that, the three thresholds are, a) Children - €335,000, b) Other close relatives - €32,500 and c) All others (including cohabiting partners) - €16,250. Everything received above these is taxed at 33%. So, is there any way to prevent it? There are two main actions that can either reduce or eradicate such a tax bill. The first is to take the time to plan when making a will. Let’s say a value of €750,000 was being left to 2 adult children. (Not a big estate if you combine a house, savings and a life policy). This would create a tax bill of over €25,000. Instead, if €670,000 of it was left to the 2 children and the balance between a few grandchildren, there is no tax bill. The second thing that can be done is for the person leaving the estate to take out a Section 72 plan. This is a

type of life policy that is allowed to pay any tax liability without adding to the value of the estate. It becomes particularly important for anybody that does not have children to plan things out, as even other relatives can only receive €32,500 before any balance is taxed. These thresholds are particularly important for anybody in the process of planning or making their will.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can of course also be contacted by you by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or you can also use the contact form on www. financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_ advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM, LMFM and TV3.

Working with you for our community CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPY Dedicated & reliable service, inspired & passionate staff.

WE SPECIALISE IN ■ Pre & Post Operation Rehab ■ Sports Medicine &

Musculoskeletal Physio ■ Neck, Back, Shoulder & Knee Pain ■ Acupuncture ■ Pilates www.fingalphysiotherapy.ie

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Michelle Lacey CHARTERED PHYSIOTHERAPIST PDip (Clin L), MSc (Sports Med)

BSc (Physio), BSc (Sports Science)

T: 087 6026521

E: fingalphysiotherapy@outlook.com WeLusk work with allCentre, Irish Health Town insurance providers Market Sq, Lusk, K45 DC85

Cllr. Grainne Maguire Independent 90 Drogheda St., Balbriggan, Co. Dublin 087 9436650 grainne.maguire@cllrs.fingal.ie Contact us: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Local News

What it’s like to be a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs!

Anne Mulligan with puppy in training Cosmo

One of our fantastic Balbriggan North County Dublin Guide Dogs volunteers, Anne Mulligan who has puppy raised multiple times, explains that “In 2010, having taken early retirement from the Civil Service I began volunteering with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind as a Puppy Raiser.” Anne said, “Puppies arrive with the raiser at 9 weeks old and stay until they are 12-14 months old at which time return to Cork for further training. Puppy raising comprises socialisation and taking the pup anywhere they would be going with a Visually Impaired Person or child with Autism. Support is provided through a Puppy Walking Supervisor.” Anne went on and discussed the first pup, she puppy raised, stating, “The first pup I took on was Zak, followed in no particular order by Cinders, Genna, Oscar, Gabbie, Zabbie, Coby, William, Adel, Yarrow and most recently Cosmo. It can sometimes happen that dogs, for various reasons are found to be unsuitable and are withdrawn from the programme. This was the case with Zak, William and Coby who were rehomed as family pets. Zabbie was part of the breeding programme. All of the others became Assistance Dogs for children with Autism. Cosmo, my most recent pup, returned to Cork on 18th September and will be starting her advanced training as an Assistance Dog in early January.” Anne noted that, “Another

aspect of volunteering is temporary boarding. Naturally, there are times Puppy Raisers, Guide Dog or Assistance Dog Owners will be going on holidays or for other reasons will need their dogs looked after for short periods. This is where I come in handy. Sometimes, I take a friend’s Guide Dog for a free run in Ardgillan which is very enjoyable both for the human and the dog.” Anne finished by saying that “While puppy raising is hard work, it is also very enjoyable and rewarding especially when you see your pup helping a Visually Impaired Person or a child with Autism. I have made many friends over the years and would certainly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about volunteering.” Also, just to note that the Annual Feis in Naul GAA club is on Saturday 10th /11th February if you would like to attend. The Feis is a fantastic event which has brought in over €25,000 for our branch over the years and for that a massive thank you! If you would like to get involved or are interested in volunteering, please feel free to contact us: Balbriggan/North County Dublin branch of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. Phone or text us on 085 7663107. Email us at GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs. You can visit GuideDogs. ie to find out more about puppy raising.

Community Climate Action Launched in Fingal Community Climate Action Fingal was launched on Wednesday, 6th December during a three-hour period, from 4 – 7 pm in the County Hall Swords. The public from all over Fingal were invited to learn about grants for Tidy Towns groups, community groups, sports clubs and not-for-profit organisations. Above all it was a networking and information evening about applications and grant funding. Light refreshments were served. If you could not attend on the night visit ow.ly/8SXc50Qb1ZK for information and details of other public sessions for this grant funding.

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Film Review

The package to make your debts manageable. LOANS CAR LOANS

CREDIT CARD LOANS

FILM REVIEW Maestro (2023) - A Harmonious Symphony of Emotion and Brilliance

EDUCATION LOANS

By Jack Shanley

DEBT CONSOLIDATION LOAN

COMBINE YOUR LOANS INTO ONE REPAYMENT

Tel (01) 844 5187 aviatecu.ie WARNING: This new loan may take longer to pay off than your previous loans. This means you may pay more than if you paid over a shorter term. WARNING: If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating, which may limit your ability to access credit in the future. Aviate Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms and conditions apply. Must be an Aviate Credit Union member.

Maestro, directed by acclaimed Actor and filmmaker Bradley Cooper is a captivating cinematic experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional 2023, the film delves into the tumultuous life of renowned conductor Leonard Bernstein, storytelling. Released in portrayed with brilliance by Oscar nominated actor Bradley Cooper. Maestro not only provides an intimate glimpse into the world of classical music but also explores the beautiful relationship Leonard had with Chilean-Costa Rican actress Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan). The film unfolds as a seamless blend of flashbacks and present-day sequences, unravelling Bernstein’s journey from a prodigious young musician to a maestro whose genius is matched only by the shadows of his past. Coopers’ performance is nothing short of fantastic, as he navigates the character’s highs and lows with a nuanced grace that elevates the film to new heights. His portrayal of Leonard Bernstein’s passion for music, coupled with the internal struggles that threaten to consume him, creates an amazing yet emotional narrative. Bradley Coopers direction is a testament to his skilful storytelling, as he weaves together the threads of Leonard Bernstein’s life with a delicate touch. The film’s pacing is masterfully orchestrated, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the life of a great Composer. From the grandeur of concert halls to the quiet moments of introspection,

Cooper captures the essence of each scene with a visual finesse that mirrors the elegance of classical music. Maestro’s supporting cast is equally commendable, with standout performances from Carey Mulligan who at times steals the show as Bernstein’s devoted but conflicted wife. The chemistry between the actors enhances the film’s emotional depth, adding layers to the intricate web of relationships that shape Bernstein’s world. The film’s cinematography, helmed by the visionary lens of Matthew Libatique, is a visual symphony that complements the musical narrative. Each frame is a work of art, capturing the sweeping grandeur of concert performances and the intimate moments of vulnerability with equal finesse. The use of light and shadow enhances the emotional feel for the story, creating a visual language that speaks volumes alongside the musical score. Speaking of the score, Maestro’s soundtrack, is beautifully composed and is a character in itself. The classical compositions evoke a range of emotions from melancholy to triumph. The wonderful score becomes the heartbeat of the film, underscoring the highs and lows of Bernstein’s journey with a sublime elegance. In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Maestro’ on Netflix and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four stars. Director: Bradley Cooper– Rating: 15 – Genre: Romance/Musical – Run Time: 2h 9m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram. BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Features

Childhood Memories - The heady days of television By Jon Kavanagh These days we hardly notice the gigantic TV screens occupying an entire wall in our living rooms. Yesteryear, sitting down to watch a program was a planned event, shared by the whole community. TV sets are few and far between. Two sisters living locally are running a defecto cinema; opening the door of their cottage to anyone who wants to view their newfangled googlebox. My father is among the patrons, visiting there twice a week to see The Virginian and The Fugitive. A debate opens up between my mother and father - now that we have electricity in the new house should we rent our own television? He is for, she is sitting firmly on the fence. Perhaps swayed by her growing suspicion that the sisters’ abode is a flea distribution centre, she capitulates. Ecstatic, my father heads to Paddy Weston’s television shop on the main street in Swords to arrange delivery. Paddy duly arrives in his Citroen DS, hauls in the heavy apparatus, connects a rabbit ears antenna, tweaks various knobs and hey presto a black and white picture flickers into life. My mother allocates herself the role of censor; issuing regular dictates: “TURN THAT OFF!” at the first hint of anything she deems inappropriate. I am mesmerised by the cartoons: The Flintstones, Bugs Bunny, Mr Magoo, and the famous duo Barney and Beany who are advertising a well-known brand of baked beans. Detectives including McCloud (who propels my normally serious father into convulsive laughter as he gallops his horse through the streets of New York), lolly pop addict Kojak, and the well disguised genius Columbo who always has “Just one more thing” to ask the culprit, chase the bad guys across our screen. Garda Patrol alerts us to real crime happening locally whilst Frank Hall shines a satirical torch on the

not so fictional townland of Ballymacash. Bunny Carr “Stops the lights” on Quicksilver, as he doles out prizes ranging from shillings and pence to the jackpot of ten pounds. We see ourselves when we visit the microcosm of Leestown where The Riordans, and their eclectic friends and neighbours reflect our own daily lives. Real reality TV.

facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal www.facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal

Goodbye to dreary January and welcome to Valentine’s Day! By Siobhan O’Neill White January is done and dusted and February is here. Goodbye to the dreariest month of the year and welcome the month of love! The growing popularity of Galentine’s day on February 13th means you can choose to celebrate with your girlfriends that day and the 14th can be a romantic day with your partner or if you are single, a day to treat yourself to some self-love and self-care. Last year my daughters and I spent Galentine’s day at an anniversary screening of Titanic at The Arc in Drogheda and then headed for dinner at Yeah Burger. If you haven’t been yet and you love a good burger, highly recommend, they have the best burgers! This year we’re planning to do that again. It’s a nice low-key way to spend an evening with my girls. I am also planning a Galentine’s get together with my Mam and sisters at City North for Afternoon tea with a few glasses of Prosecco thrown in! As for Valentine’s Day; often the most appreciated gifts are the personal 10 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

ones. Making someone a romantic dinner, running them a bubble bath, giving them a massage – are all nice things you can do that won’t cost much. To make dinner at home extra special, pop a tablecloth on, sprinkle a few rose petals around and set out your nicest glasses, cutlery and plates. Or treat your loved one to their favourite takeaway and snuggle up to watch a movie together with a bowl of popcorn and warm blanket. As Valentine’s night is so busy, sometimes its nicer to stay home on the 14th and head out for a romantic dinner another night instead, when it’s less busy. Whatever you get up to on 13th and 14th February, try to make time to do something nice for yourself. It could be sitting down with a good book. Going for a walk on the beach followed by coffee and cake at your favourite café. Relaxing in a warm bath. Remember, we have to look after ourselves first before we can look after others. Happy Valentine’s Day everyone. And make sure to pop over to mams.ie for our fab competitions! Contact us: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Large choice of Dog and Cat Beds, treats and toys for Dogs, Cats, Hamsters, Rabbits and Guinea Pigs, Aquariums and all Reptile Accessories

20% Off Selected Dog Toys

Catwalk Collection llars Designer Co Reduced to €5.99

Eco Line Hooded Cat Litter Tray Reduced to €23.99

Selected Whiskas k Kitten 12 Pac r Pouches 4 fo €16.00

Royal Canin Cat xes Pouches Bo of 12 from €12 .40

Rosewood House Train ing Mats 30 Pa cks €9.99

Pedigree 12 Pack Pouches €6.50

Sheba Craft 12 Pack r Pouches 4 fo €20.00

Unit C1 Millfield Shopping Centre, Balbriggan, Co Dublin Tel: 01 6904422, Email: cuddlespetstore@gmail.com web: www.cuddlespetstore.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Local News

Balbriggan Community Council news from the area!

Balbriggan Youth Theatre is looking for facilitators. Do you have a theatre related talent and are interested in forming part of a creative team? Location will be Balbriggan Library. Email Raquel.MurilloDiestro@fingal.ie for more information.

12 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

FIAT PRO IS THE REAL DEAL! GET 4.9% APR* ACROSS THE RANGE OR 2 YEAR EXTENDED WARRANTY.* *Offer applies across the range and T&C’s will apply with an offer expiry

NEARYS LUSK Contact us: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Local Sports

Balbriggan Rugby youngsters and Stingers do the club proud

Well done to Balbriggan men’s youth players Conor O’Grady, Max Downey and Seamus Whelan who represented Leinster North East in the Shane Horgan Cup against Leinster South East at Energia Park recently. It was a cracking match which saw both sides level, 22 v 22 with just minutes to go. A penalty kick saw the North East take the lead 25 v 22. And with seconds on the clock, the North East went over for their final try of the day, which, with the

conversion added, brought the full-time score to 32 v 22 for the North East. Well done to the North East Squad and their coaches and the Balbriggan players on a great performance. Not to be outdone the U18AB girls played their first match of the 23/24 league recently with a win on the road against a strong Barnhall side. A very competitive game with strong carries, defensive lines and great communication. The girls kept their heads, worked very hard for each other and

secured the well-deserved win. Special mention to Fiona Odige who went off injured in the last 10 minutes after a stand-out performance and we wish her a speedy recovery. Congratulations girls and keep up the good work. Last but definitely never least, congratulations to The Stingers Tag Team who lined out at half time at the Aviva Stadium recently. Many of the Stingers team also are members of Remember Us Balbriggan and are very special players within the club.

facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal www.facebook.com/BalbrigganLocal 14 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Local Sports

Balbriggan FC hosted wonderful Irish Women’s International player

Recently Balbriggan FC had the pleasure of hosting Balbriggan native Diane Caldwell, the talented and experienced Republic of Ireland and FC Zürich Frauen defender. Diane generously shared her knowledge and expertise with the players, providing invaluable insights and tips on the game. She also took the time to take pictures and sign autographs. It was fantastic to have such an outstanding player visit the club and a memorable experience for all of us.

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

Healt

Home Cook Recipes

Valentine’s Day Romantic Rawlos Try these for a tasty, romantic Valentine’s day or an any day treat. Blitzing up dates in a little bit of water turns them into a melt in the mouth healthier caramel!!! Add nut butter and you’re packing in protein and healthy fats (which we need in small amounts!) Smoother them in dark chocolate and you’re reaping all those beautiful cocoa benefits!! The great thing is even though they are so delicious, they are very filling so you won’t scoff them down as you might do with a normal pack of Rolo’s.Plus they are SOOO simples to make!

Ingredients

(Makes 12 ‘Rawlos’) • 60g Dates in 1-2 tablespoons water • 140g Almond butter (or a nut/seed butter of your choice!) • 50g Dark chocolate (AT least 70% cocoa)

Method 1. Having soaked the dates in a small amount of water overnight, mash them up. If they don’t mash up easily, heat them gently in the microwave/hob. 2.Add the nut/seed butter to the mashed dates and mix well. 3. Roll into balls and freeze for 1 hour.

4.Melt dark chocolate. Coat the balls in the dark chocolate and freeze for 20minutes. See how long they can last melting in your mouth without you gobbling up their gooey centre and crisp chocolate shell!!!!

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”

SERVICING ALL VEHICLES

GENERAL SERVICE

BRAKES/TYRES

VALET & A/C

EXHAUSTS/CLUTCH

GEARBOXES

BODY REPAIR

THE BEST SERVICE PERFORMANCE (01) 8437100

BOOK NOW

www.nearyslusk.ie

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 the 16th of this mnoth. The first correct entry to be drawn will win €50..Good luck Across

Down

1. The largest German city. (6) 5. Not harmful to the environment. (6) 10. Ostentatiously costly and luxurious. (7) 11. This Leonardo painted the Mona Lisa. (2,5) 12. Old stringed musical instrument. (4) 13. A numbers game. (5) 15. Soft cheese named after a French region. (4) 17. Type of graffiti and a chasing game for children. (3) 19. Type of quickly flashing light. (6) 21. They hold up trousers. (6) 22. Difficult to do or needing a lot of effort. (7) 23. The solid surface of the earth. (6) 25. People who roam from place to place. (6) 28. The movement of the tide out to sea. (3) 30. More than enough. (4) 31. The anguish experienced after significant loss. (5) 32. The extent of a surface or a piece of land. (4) 35. North African country. (7) 36. Half man, half horse. (7) 37. Shot someone from a hidden position, often at a distance. (6) 38. Rest yourself in a warm, comfortable and protected position. (6)

2. Imaginary line around the Earth. (7) 3. An emblem of Wales. (4) 4. A silly or stupid person. (6) 5. Someone who is dishonest or unreliable. (3,3) 6. Colour and maritime force. (4) 7. Drugs that are produced by many companies. (7) 8. French ball game. (6) 9. Muscles of the arms. (6) 14. The capital of Kenya. (7) 16. A dark brown hardwood. (5) 18. The criminal act of deliberately setting fire to property. (5) 20. Conclusion, finish, complete. (3) 21. A small cake. (3) 23. The City of the Tribes. (6) 24. An eight-sided figure. (7) 26. Flying messages. (7) 27. Ascenders. (6) 28. A short journey to deliver or collect something. (6) 29. A fire or light in a high position as a warning or a signal. (6) 33. Catch one’s foot and stumble or fall. (4) 34. Small insects that live in underground colonies. (4)

• Do you run a Local Sports Club or Team? • Are you a new business or a business celebrating an anniversary? • Are you running or hosting a Local event or Fundraiser? • Do you have a story to tell? • A Special Birthday, Christening, Communion..

Send us your pics.. We Want it ALL..

SUDOKU ANSWERS

WE WANT YOUR LOCAL NEWS!!

18 BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2024

VALENTINES SHOW: THAT’S AMORE DATE: FEB 11, 2024

in the Morning...

Afternoon

FRANKIE GAVIN & CATHERINE MCHUGH DATE: FEB 18, 2024

THE AMY WINEHOUSE BAND DATE: FEB 22, 2024