Winter 2015
Bringing local business to local people
Come into Aladdin’s Cave!
A treasure trove of everything Haberdashery - fabulous fabrics, sewing essentials, fat quarters, patchwork fabrics, and much more.
Windmill Business Park, Windmill Rd, Saintfield, Co Down, BT24 7DX
Call in and see for yourself!
Custom made Curtains, Cushions & Soft Furnishings
Now taking orders for Christmas Please Book Early -
Tel: 028
9751 9229
Open: Mon - Sat 9:30am - 5pm
Windmill Fabrics have once again been nominated in the 2015 British Sewing Awards for ‘Best Independent Haberdashery Shop’
As k Vo u s a u Ha che bou mp rs t G er & ift s
we don't like to disappoint but we do get very busy in the run up to Christmas
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To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
Sav Sa ve 45% on sending your your Pa Parrcels across Ireland eland across UK & Ir Items Tracked & Traced with Signature 2 & 3 day Delivery Price saving against Royal Mail and other main couriers
ANY SHAPE – ANY SIZE – UP TO 30KG
£6.00
NORTHERNMAIL PARCEL POST DM Services & Northern Mail Unit 15, Lowes Industrial Estate, 31 Ballynahinch Road, Carryduff, Belfast BT8 8EH.
Ideal for relocating students! We can send or collect your luggage to / from anywhere in the UK or Ireland at a very low cost, get in touch for a quote today!
OPENING HOURS
9:00am to 5:00pm Monday-Thursday 9:00am to 4:00pm Friday
TELEPHONE: 028 9081 7776 Simply call in at our depot or call to arrange a collection for £5.00 ALSO AVAILABLE SHIPPING WORLD WIDE AT LOW RATES
Welcome Contents Articles: 6 10 16 28 30
Finance Boost Your Income in time for Christmas
Seasonal Recipe Spiced Winter Vegetable Soup
Pets Dental Problems in Rabbits
Hobbies Felting
Technology Best Tech for Christmas
Puzzles:
14 Crossword 22 Sudoku 24 Codeword 24 Wordwheel 35,38 Solutions
Regulars:
33 Useful Numbers 32-37 Community Pages 38 Index
to your Autumn Winter issue
Hello again everyone,
I hope you’ve had a great Summer! The nights are drawing in and Winter is almost upon us - time to get the chimney swept and stock up on logs for the fire! A wee reminder that the clocks go back at the end of October, and before we know it Hallowe’en will be over and the mad Christmas season will be starting. Actually I think in some shops it has started already. If you’re the sort that likes to plan ahead, we’ve a couple of Christmassy articles you might be interested in - the best tech for Christmas and how to boost your income in time for Christmas. I’ve finally got around to sorting out a Facebook page for the magazines, so please find us on Facebook and be the first to get updates on the next issues, distribution timings and get access to the online versions of the magazines. As this magazine is published twice a year now, please keep and use this issue until the Spring Summer issue arrives in March. Thanks once again to all of you for using the magazine and for supporting our local businesses - I firmly believe we should all ‘shop local’. If you contact any of the advertisers from this issue or visit their premises, please remember to tell them where you saw their ad.
Until next time.... Local Focus Magazines
Deirdre
Local Focus Magazine is published by Local Focus, a totally independent small business. Local Focus cannot be held responsible for any advert content, including errors and omissions. Local Focus does not endorse companies, products or services that appear in this magazine. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that all information given within this magazine is accurate, this cannot always be guaranteed.
Buster
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QUALITY KITCHENS Supplied & fitted from
ÂŁ3,495
ONE STOP SHOP If you require electrical, plumbing, plastering, tiling or minor building works, look no further we can do it all
FREE In-House 3D Design and Callout Service
a&r Interiors CALL 02890 799 664 3 Elesington Court, Bells Bridge Roundabout, Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9JY
WWW.AANDRINTERIORS.CO.UK Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
5
With Christmas fast approaching it’s worthwhile trying to boost your income to cover some of the cost rather than over-using your credit card. So to avoid a huge bill in January and get the New Year off to a good start, try one or two of these ideas and generate some extra cash. Use cashback sites when buying your presents If you like to shop online at Christmas, you might be surprised by just how much cash you can get back when using sites such as Quidco and TopCashBack. There’s no charge to sign up, and depending on the item purchased you can get between 3% and 10% of your money back. Generate extra cash on eBay and Amazon Not only will you declutter and make space for the next influx of presents, selling items online can generate some muchneeded extra money at this time of year. There are hundreds of eBay categories, and once you get into a routine of photographing and describing your items, it’s possible to significantly boost your Christmas budget. Amazon is great for selling books, CDs and DVDs that you no longer want, but they also
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offer hundreds of different item categories within their marketplace. If you have a lot of books to sell it can be quicker to list them on Amazon rather than eBay, as all you need to do is input the ISBN or title. The site then searches for the book and automatically adds postage, so all you need to do is write a short description. Use the popularity of local Facebook pages Many people use Facebook to sell goods locally. It works like a classified ad – you list your item and local people come round to view it before purchasing with cash. The local online groups are run by volunteers, and the listing is free-of-charge which saves you money in comparison with eBay and Amazon. Become a mystery shopper If you’ve got time to spare, this can be a lucrative sideline and offers a great deal of variety. Depending on the mystery shopping company, you could be carrying out a covert visit to a store, ordering a sandwich in Subway or checking out the service in your local bank. You’ll need to fill in a report online following each visit, and photograph or scan your receipts as proof that you’ve carried it out. Make sure that
you read the instructions thoroughly before you set out, however, as you won’t get paid if you don’t follow them to the letter. Turn your hobby into a business The UK arts and crafts scene has risen massively in popularity, and there is a range of websites where you can sell your items. Folksy is one of the biggest of these in the UK, and offers lots of help to set up your account. If you prefer to sell in person, however, try a Christmas craft fair in your local area – there should be lots of trade and it helps that people can see the quality of items first-hand. You’ll probably find that your local school or garden centre hold a craft event leading up to Christmas. Alternatively, bigger venues such as National Trust properties or stately homes in your area are also popular locations for craft fairs all year round. These are just a few ideas for boosting your income – try picking one or two and you might find that you’ve got some money to spare in January. http:// www.moneysavingexpert.com/ family/make-money
To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
Boiler Services
GAS & OIL BOILERS SERVICING & REPAIRS
ma.ke soft furnishings
24-hr Breakdown Service tel: 028 9263 8422 mob: 07710 670363 7 Church Rd, Boardmills, Carryduff BT27 6UP
We are an award-winning local home bakery & caterer based on our own farm between Carryduff and Moneyrea.
Celebration & Wedding Cakes Our celebration cakes start from £15 and we can provide you with a customised cake that's as individual as you! We also cater for...
Bakery Open...
Coffee Mornings Dinner Parties Kids Parties Family Occasions Afternoon Tea Funeral Tea Office Functions
any Fri or Sat 9-12noon
Sweet and Savoury dishes Sandwich Platters Tray Bakes
Choose from our selection of traybakes, cakes and desserts. Please pre-order if you would like something specific
Order in good time for Christmas!
Mince Pies, Xmas Cakes, Shortbread etc
Mossbrook Farm, 20 Mossbrook Rd, Carryduff. BT8 8AJ
tel: 07912 620 177 e: farmhousetreatsdesserts@yahoo.co.uk
Office Cleaning Regular Domestic Cleaning Specialising in one-off Spring Cleans House Moves / Pre & Post Tenancy / Builders Cleans Offices - Restaurants - Bars - Places of Worship
curtains - blinds - cushions range of headings and linings free, no obligation, measuring, estimate and hanging of curtains.
to discuss your project, contact email: ma.kesoftfurnishings@gmail.com tel: 07786 353769
YOGA CLASSES Experience mind and body harmony with IYENGAR Yoga
Stretch, Strengthen & Simply Relax Private Yoga Classes Morning & Evening Yoga Classes Beginners to Intermediates Ballynahinch & Carryduff
Coming Soon to Saintfield For further information Contact Tel: 07709 523334 angelabeattieyoga@gmail.com
Call Vicki today on 028 9751 0398 2 Laurel Close, Saintfield www.springcleanni.com
Angela Beattie Yoga
Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
7
Boiler Servicing: Has your boiler been serviced recently? Contact us now to book your OFTEC boiler service and carbon monoxide check Wise up to the dangers of Carbon Monoxide website: www.awjthompson.com
All types of Electrical Works: Rewires • Security Lighting Alarms • Garden Lighting Inspection & Testing For your free quotation, contact
Alistair on: 0790 222 0492 or: 028 9187 3777 email: info@awjthompson.com
Down Street Building and Joinery Kitchens Supplied & Fitted Fitting of B&Q & Homebase kitchens Bathroom Refurbs Tiling PVC Panels General Building & Joinery Doors Wooden Flooring Fencing Patios
Chimney Sweeping Cowls, Pots & Caps
Supplied & Fitted Smoke Tests Pressure Washing Guttering Cleaned
Call Darran today:
07772 474 575 and give soot the boot!
Call Today for a free quotation:
Jonathan 07796 405 242 David 07851 643 867 email:
jp1210@hotmail.co.uk
NIACS trained, approved & insured
Find us on 8
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Interior Design Service By Pam Hunter 27 years experience in the design industry
07710 742 612 www.hacd.co.uk pam@hacd.co.uk Tel:
Queensfort Park Sth, Carryduff
Carryduff Design Studio Now Opened
15% off all orders placed before end November
Extensive range of fabrics & wallcoverings to choose from All leading design houses stocked Bespoke upholstery manufacturing service Professional curtain and blind making service
Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
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Spiced Winter
• • • • • • • • •
2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed 2 tsp medium curry paste 300g carrots, peeled and diced 250g swede, peeled and diced 2 large parsnips, peeled and diced 1.4 litre vegetable stock Crème fraîche or natural yoghurt, parsnip crisps (see tip) and crushed coriander seeds, to garnish
To make the parsnip crisps, use a potato peeler to shave long thin strips from one large peeled parsnip. Half fill a large deep frying pan with vegetable oil and heat until a cube of bread dropped in the hot oil browns in 30 seconds. Fry the strips of parsnip in the hot oil for 1-2 minutes until crisp and golden. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain well on kitchen paper.
Heat the oil in a large deep pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and fry for 6-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute then add the diced vegetables and cover and cook gently for 5 minutes. Pour in 900ml of the chicken stock and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Cool for 10 minutes. Puree the soup in a blender or food processor (in batches if necessary) and return to the pan. Stir in another 300ml of the remaining stock and heat through gently. If you prefer a soup with a thinner consistency add the rest of the stock. Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve in warmed bowls garnished with a spoonful of crème fraîche or natural yoghurt, parsnip crisps and crushed coriander seeds.
10 To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
Christmas Party Nights £25.00 Fri / Sat Nights in Dec - 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th & 19th
Super Santa Sunday 20th Dec 12-3pm Bouncy Castle, Face Painting and of course Santa Claus.
Open Christmas Day Full Christmas Fayre to include Champagne Reception
Boxing Day Full A La Carte menu and live music
New Year’s Eve Champagne Reception, fork supper, piper and live music - only £15 per person Don’t miss our Steak Night every Friday 2 8oz steaks, trimmings, a bottle of wine £29.95
Our St Andrews Suite is available for all parties, weddings, christenings etc
Telephone: 028 9263 9213
Great Deals on Golf too!
email: info@templegolf.com ALL GOLF
OPEN TO NON SOCIETY ENQUIRIES MEMBERS! WELCOME Temple Golf & Country Club 60 Church Road, Boardmills, BT27 6UP www.templegolf.com
Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
11
The Gallery p12
12 To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
We are just launching our Therapies at Core Health Studio, Carryduff
Are you stressed? Don’t suffer in silence! Tension Headaches & Stress? Anxiety & Depression? Low Immune System? Lymphedema? Learning Disorders?
Opening Offer -
£10.00 off
all therapies booked during October 2015
We can help with these and lots more…
Our TherapistsLiz Elliott
07977 511 561 Mary Jane Burns
07749 031255 Jimmy Smyth
Jimmy
07734 685 297
Also -
Ring TODAY For an appointment
Gift Vouchers are available for that special person Wellbeing days available at your workplace Lunch Time therapies available for 6 or more staff.
Liz
Mary-Jane
For therapist profiles visit our website: www.thehealthandwellbeingcompany.org For an appointment, contact us directly or by email: business.wellbeing@gmail.com Core Health Studio, Unit 6 McKibbin House, Eastbank Road, Belfast, BT8 8BD
Jo Jingles p13
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13
Quick Crossword 25 Ruin (7)
Across
1
2
3
Solution on page 35 4
5
6
7
20
21
1 Brass instrument (7) Down 5 Two wheeled transport (5)
1
Informs (5)
2
Male relative (5)
8 More fortunate (7)
3
Artist (7)
4
Flung (6)
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Seat (5)
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Fasteners (7)
7
Gets away (7)
9 Room under the eaves (5) 10 Not sour (5) 11 Adore, revere (7) 12 Come to an end (6) 14 Irritates, annoys (6) 17 Used for cigarettes (7)
13 Small stones (7)
22 Regulations (5)
18 Supports for broken bones (5)
spine (5)
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15 Accompanies (7) 16 Compelled (6)
24 Found in the
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12 Went into (7)
19 Seashell (5) 23 Holiday home (7)
8
20 Not ever (5)
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21 Useful (5)
For Christmas Decorations... Indoor & Outdoor
Shop Local this Xmas
For Christmas Trees & Holly Wreaths...
Visit us this Christmas for lots of Gift & Decorating ideas! 88 Belfast Road, Saintfield e:info@saintfieldnurserycentre.co.uk
Tel: 028 90 814331 www.saintfieldnurserycentre.co.uk
14 To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
Jackie’s Unisex Salon Opening Hours: Tues 9am-5pm Fri 8:30am-6pm
Thurs 9am-7pm Sat 8:30am-3pm
Closed Mon & Wed
Parking at Door Low Level Entrance for Elderly
Tel: 028 44 830 191 87b Manse Road, Raffrey (half a mile from Darragh Cross)
A.R.M. LOCKSMITHS Master Locksmiths • Domestic & Commercial
Emergency Locksmiths 24/7 Service Non-Destructive Entry Complete Lock Changes UPVC Doors and Window locks
repaired and replaced All locks supplied and fitted meeting insurance requirements On Site Key Cutting Facility Burglary Repair & Boarding Up Work & Locks Guaranteed All calls dealt with in confidence
Tel: 07934 663337 Store this number for Emergencies
Classes in:
Carryduff Lough Moss Leisure Centre
Wednesdays 9.45am & 6.00pm For men and women Tel: Anne Marie 028 4062 4879
Jim lost 6st 10lbs 028 9042 6812 www.weightwatchers.ie
Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
15
What are the Signs of Dental Problems in Your Rabbit? It’s not necessarily tooth decay that causes dental problems in a rabbit. Teeth that grow at a rate of 2mm per week, combined with the wrong type of diet, are more likely to be at fault. Rabbits’ teeth should be ground down by their food, and if this doesn’t happen they can develop overgrown molars or spurs of enamel that cut into the soft tissue in their mouth. Foods rich in
fibre that also wear down the teeth, such as hay and dark green leafy vegetables, will stop incisors becoming too long. To help spot the telltale signs of trouble, and deal effectively with your rabbit’s dental health, here are some signs to look out for. Lack of grooming Rabbits naturally groom themselves, and if yours has stopped grooming it can lead to a range of other problems including fly strike, a potentially fatal disease. Rabbits use their teeth during the grooming process, so lack of cleanliness on their part could mean that their teeth are sore.
Loss of weight It may be painful for them to eat, resulting in a rapid loss of weight. The abrasive nature of hay in particular could be causing them pain. Drooling If your rabbit has started to drool, it might be due to dental problems. Also look out for wetness on their front paws. Your vet should be able to smooth any enamel spurs, and keeping an eye on your rabbit’s general behaviour can also help to pinpoint problems. http://www.rabbitawarenessweek. co.uk/health/dental/ By Ann Haldon
NOW delivering Quality Heating Oil at competitive prices in your area
Domestic Heating Oil ▪ Farm Fuels ▪ Commercial Fuels Mini Tanker Available All major credit cards accepted ▪ Prompt Delivery Service Mon-Sat
Oilways Dependable!
48 Saintfield Road, Crossgar. BT30 9H4
16 To advertise t: 02890 817579 e: info@localfocusmags.co.uk www.localfocusmags.co.uk
Handsome Hounds Exclusive Dog Grooming Service www.handsomehoundsni.com
One to One personal attention by fully trained groomer Nail, ear and gland treatment Premium products used for each coat type Full choice of styles and trims ~ Fully Qualified ~ No dog too big or small ~ All breeds welcome ~ Excellent Service Pick up and drop off service available in Ballygowan, Comber, Carryduff & Saintfield areas
Open seven days a week All cars PSV and DOE registered Male and Female drivers available Airport runs pre-bookable 24/7 NO SURCHARGING
Tel 028 9752 8105 Mob: 07899 967725
...you can trust us to get you there
Beechill Pet Supplies Pet supplies and great advice We Supply:
Pet Food ♦ Pet Health Pet Toys ♦ Pet Bedding Goldfish ♦ Fish tanks Kennels ♦ Hutches ♦ Cages
Tel: 028 9751 9291
CALL IN TO SEE OUR NEWLY REFURBISHED SHOP NOW BIGGER and BETTER! Find us on
Sign up to our mailing list for the latest special offers!!! Simply send us your contact details through our new website:
www.beechillpetsupplies.co.uk e: beechillpetsupplies@hotmail.co.uk
Visit our pet shop at: 4 Main Street Saintfield BT24 7AA Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
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Walk-In Wardrobes
FUSION ROBeS
Angled/Slanted Wardrobes
amazing sliding wardrobes
Sliding Wardrobes
Quality Affordable Stylish
FUSION ROBeS
amazing sliding wardrobes
Showroom at 6 - 8 Castlereagh Road, Belfast, BT5 5FP Contact
028 9008 0068
info@fusionrobes.co.uk www.fusionrobes.co.uk Contact us to arrange a free design consultation or to request a brochure
WHY CHOOSE GARETH McAULEY? I DO THE JOB RIGHT ! Over 20 years industry experience Fully Insured Professional & Reliable Very high quality workmanship Clean, tidy, affordable & trustworthy
Hand Painted Kitchens & Furniture Professional Wallpaper Hanging Window and Door restorations Interior & exterior decorating Period Properties and Listed Buildings
100% Customer Satisfaction
or the job is not complete
CONTACT ME TODAY FOR A PROFESSIONAL QUOTE: Mob: 07946 469085 Tel: 028 9751 9673 Email: garethmcauley67@googlemail.com Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
19
Sudoku
For solutions, see page 38
How to Play Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9, with no repetition. That's all there is to it! You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic there’s no maths involved and no adding up.
.’
PVC Fascia, Soffit & Guttering Full Bathroom Refurbishments Oil Boiler Services Garden Fences
also All Plumbing Jobs
Landlord Services
For your free estimate, call David: 07512 730603 22
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1 Sheets + Overs LOC95436 Magazine Sig 3 Front
Garden and Paving Designs Planting Lawns Sown/Turfed Brick Paving/Driveways, Patios Garden Walls/Pillars Fencing/Decking
Tree Services Conifers Topped & Trimmed Tree Felling Pruning Stump Grinding
Contact Stephen on: Tel: 028 9263 9276 Mob: 07803 960007 Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
23
Codeword
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Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.
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Solution on page 38
3
5
16
11 6
24 15
3
5
26 17
2 3
O
3
16
L
2
10
1 Sheets + Overs LOC95436 Magazine Sig 3 Back
1
1
20
1
15
15
1
17
10
9 8
3
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15
2
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4
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3 1
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18 16
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23 3
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16 2
16 3
18 22
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10 5
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1 13
20
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10 5
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N
20
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L
21 6
3 24
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22 10
17 7
3
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3 20
19
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WEDNESDAY Ballygowan
Kyle Reid 028 9061 6656
Roundabout Bar (Gourley’s), 2-3 The Square, 5:30pm & 7:30pm Tel: Esther 07804 095 409
kyle@tlcni.com www.tlcni.com
WORDWHEEL Using only the letters in the Wordwheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must be of three letters or more, all must contain the central letter and letters can only be used once in every word. There is at least one word that uses all of the letters in the wheel.
TARGET
Excellent: 35 or more words Good: 28 words Fair: 21 words Solution on page 38 24
P I
E A
T U
T D
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Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
25
Tel: 028 90827172
Email: lisa@rjspatterson.com
Website: www.rjspatterson.com - AND BEYOND
Based in Belfast and covering: BELFAST - LISBURN - BANGOR - HOLYWOOD - CARRICKFERGUS
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PLANTATION SHUTTERS NOW AVAILABLE
FREE Measuring FREE Fitting Call now to arrange your FREE, no obligation quotation Classic Blinds Belfast Ltd Ring to arrange a visit from one of our sales reps
Tel: 028 9081 4197
Showroom at: Unit 6 Millennium Court, William Street, Portadown
Tel: 028 3833 2323
NOW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
www.classicblindsni.co.uk e: classicblinds@btconnect.com
Up to 50% reduced fees over Winter! Book early! Gutters Cleaned from just £20 Logs for Sale Free delivery Ton Sack £45 Power Washing Fencing & Decking Snow Clearance Tree Pruning
Contact Graeme for your free quote: Tel: 02890 448744 or Mob: 07510 998 801 8 Ilford Road, Crossnacreevy, Belfast BT6 9SN
Need some new customers? No need to break the bank! Just advertise your business in the next
Local Focus!
To be in our next issue, ring Deirdre - 028 90 817579 Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
27
Once viewed as a functional and slightly dull material, felt’s image has been transformed by textile artists who have used felt to make artworks, clothing and fashion accessories. Felt can be made from all types of wool fibre as well as alpaca, cashmere and angora. It’s not possible to turn synthetic fibres into felt on their own, but some synthetics can be combined with wool to give more resilience and longevity. Felting is a simple process and the fabric can be used to make a wide range of items, (sculptures, wall hangings, rugs, slippers, cushion covers and even quirky items of jewellery). Wet felting This is a method of creating a flat piece of felt. All you need to get started is some wool fibres, a mat made of thin bamboo strands (like a sushi mat), a bar of soap, a piece of bubble wrap and a length of nylon netting, plus warm water and detergent in a spray bottle. Lay out the bamboo mat and place even layers of fibres along its surface, each layer set at a 90 degree angle from the one underneath. Then cover with nylon netting, spray with a water and detergent mix until soaked through and agitate and compress the fibres beneath the netting (using
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soapy bubble wrap) until they hook together to create a single piece of fabric. When the material has matted together use the bamboo mat to roll and squeeze the water out before leaving it to dry. If creating a picture or wall hanging, you can lay different coloured fibres onto the final layer to create a visual image before squeezing out the water and drying the artwork. Needle felting This is a popular technique for creating 2D and 3D shapes, in which special notched needles are used to tangle and compress a mass of fibres in order to create a sculpture or piece of jewellery. Nuno felting This is a technique developed by Australian fibre artist Polly Stirling, who bonds wool fibres onto a thin background fabric such as silk gauze or muslin to create anything from a delicate scarf to a thick winter coat. There are some easy-to-follow, free “how to” guides online, supported by three ebooks on creating felt artworks (see http://rosiepink.typepad.co.uk). If you ever felt like learning a new skill, felting just might be for you.
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Ballygowan Community Pre-School & Playgroup Open Night
Everyone Welcome
Thurs 3rd December 2015 7pm-8:30pm Alexander Dickson Primary School will also be open on the same night
Pre-School sessions: Mon- Fri for children in their pre-school year.
Playgroup: Monday and Wednesday afternoons for children aged 2 years and 10 months. Registering now for 2016 - 2017 Ballygowan Community Pre-School and Playgroup are proud to share with you the outcome from the recent ETI Inspection carried out in October 2014 -
"The quality of education provided is Very Good" The inspection report stated:
"....the enriched programme provides more opportunities for the children to engage in purposeful and productive play...." and "....staff have developed a collegial approach ......which contributes to the very positive ethos of the playgroup...."
Outdoor play area, shared with Alexander Dickson PS
For further information, tel: 028 9752 0800
email: ballygowancommunityplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk
Please mention the Local Focus Magazine when contacting advertisers
29
Christmas is coming, and that means it’s shopping time - but what do you buy a gadget-crazy friend or relative? These are the best tech gifts for Christmas. 1. A TV streamer - Whether it’s Amazon’s £35 Fire TV stick or Google’s £30 Chromecast, a TV streamer can turn a flat screen TV into a smart TV. Amazon’s version gives you Amazon Prime Instant Video while Chromecast offers Netflix (if you subscribe). Both devices have a range of free services too. 2. FishHunter - Buying for a fisherman or woman? The £149 FishHunter is a sonar fish-finder that connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and can find fish at depths of up to 120 feet - or you could buy the £100 WaterWolf HD fishing camera, which can record up to four hours of fishy footage at depths of up to 100m. 3. Windows 10 - If you didn’t like Windows 8 very much you’re not alone - but Windows 10 is much, much better and comes on a dizzying range of good quality, affordable laptops - for example, the superb HP Stream is £180. 4. TomTom Spark - Fitness trackers are everywhere, but the £189 TomTom Spark stands out from the crowd by offering music storage for 500 songs as well as
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sleep and activity tracking. Too pricey? The excellent Fitbit Flex is £55. 5. Parrot drone - You can spend hundreds or even thousands of pounds on a drone quadricopter, but for £69 the Parrot Rolling Spider delivers an awful lot of fun for a relatively low price. It’s a flying drone, of course, but it can also roll along on removable wheels to perform acrobatics. 6. iPad Mini - The iPad Mini is the cheapest way to get the iPad experience, and its Retina display is a pleasure to look at. Prices start at £319. If that’s a bit steep, Tesco’s £99 Android-powered Hudl 2 and Amazon’s £79 Kindle Fire HD are great value for money. 7. ZX Spectrum - The iconic eighties home computer is back for 2015 in two forms: the £100 Vega, which is designed purely for games and only has a few buttons, and the Remastered, £89, which is a bluetooth keyboard that can play old Spectrum programs. The Vega comes preloaded with hundreds of games, while the Remastered can potentially access 10,000 Spectrum titles. 8. Skylanders, Disney Infinity or Minecraft anything - The big games for children this year are
Skylanders Superchargers and Disney Infinity 3.0, both of which are available for all major consoles and which use interchangeable toys to unlock ingame characters. And then there’s Minecraft, the global phenomenon: the children probably have the game already but there’s a huge range of officially licensed merchandise to choose from including action figures, books and soft toys. 9. Smartwatch - It isn’t cheap prices start at £299 - but Apple’s watch is the prettiest and most desirable smartwatch around, although it’s useless without an iPhone. If your recipient has an Android phone the Moto 360 2 (£229) is the best-looking Android Wear, while the £95 Pebble Steel works with Apple and Android and has garnered rave reviews. 10. Gift cards - Not strictly tech, but if you’re buying for someone who already has everything then iTunes, Google Play or Amazon gift cards are a good bet. iTunes cards are often sold with big discounts of up to 20%, so it’s worth hanging on for the deals before you buy.
Images left to right: Parrot Rolling Spider drone; ZX Spectrum Vega console; officially licensed Minecraft mug; TomTom Spark fitness watch
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ACADEMY PRIMARY AND NURSERY SCHOOL
Nursery Primary
13:00 – 15:00 for children & parents; 18:30 for parents 18:30 for parents
Parents of any pupils (aged 4-11) wishing to attend Academy Primary or Nursery can contact the school for further details:
194 Listooder Road, Saintfield, BT24 7JA Tel: 028 9751 0407 email: smoore560@c2kni.net www.academyprimary.com ETI INSPECTION REPORT MARCH 2014
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You are warmly invited to Our Open Day on Wednesday 9th Dec 2015.
Community Pages
Free for non profit making organisations
RAVARA OBEDIENCE AND AGILITY DOG TRAINING CLUB is run by John Templeton in Ballygowan primarily for dog owners of all ages to have fun while giving their dogs both mental and physical stimulation through training. The annual Obedience and Agility competitions were held on Saturday 12th September 2015 at the training venue on the Ravara Road, Ballygowan and a large number of the club members participated; 12 in the obedience and 20 in the agility. Remarkably, the competitions bring out the competitive edge in many of the members which lies dormant generally until trophies are produced. Top dog ‘Shelby’ a three year old Jack Russell Terrier handled by Sarah Patterson, Ballygowan, assistant trainer at the Club, took top prizes for the third year running, winning the Best Obedience Dog, Best Overall Agility Dog and Best Small Dog trophies.
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Scarlett Burnside from Saintfield with ‘Guinness’ a three year old Rottweiler was clearly the best young handler on the day winning Best Young Sarah with Handler Obedience, Best Junior Handler and Clear Shelby and Marley Round rosette in the Agility. Gillian Murray with’ Dylan’ a four year old black Labrador Retriever won the Best Large Dog and the Clear Round rosette in Agility. At just age seven, the club’s youngest member, Charlton Young from Castlereagh, won a Scarlett with Guinness Clear Round rosette, third place in Best Junior Handler and third Best Small Dog in Agility with ‘Holly’ a four year old Labrador Retriever. Although there were a few disappointments on the day with some dogs failing to achieve a Clear Round rosette for agility, congratulations should be given to three of our members who competed for the first time; Angie Moore with Herbie a two year old Lhasa Apso, Louise Hamiliton with Cally, a nine month of Jackpoo and Ellie Cairns with Lola, a three year old yellow Labrador Retriever all of which won a clear round rosette. For any further information about the club and courses that we offer please visit our website: www.templetontraining.com.
Charlton with Holly
Sasha
Herbie 32
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EMMA BARR, recently appointed Drum Major of Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band, pictured right at the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Pipe Band Championships in Moira on Saturday 1st August. Congratulations to Ballygowan girl Emma who was crowned Juvenile Grade Drum Major ‘Champion of Champions’ at the World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green on Saturday 15th August. Emma also won the third place Juvenile Grade Drum Major trophy.
MONEYREA PRIMARY SCHOOL Our school Open Day for prospective parents and pupils is scheduled for Wednesday 2nd December, from 2.00pm – 4.00pm and 7.00pm – 9.00pm. We are also hosting an Open Morning on Wednesday 6th January from 10.00am midday (principal's address at 10.30am). We are an all-inclusive school welcoming pupils from all communities and backgrounds. MONEYREAGH MUMS & TOTS GROUP Mondays 10:15am to 12 noon, at Moneyreagh Community Centre. Find us on facebook Contact 07738 933 835
Local Useful Numbers : HEALTH AMBULANCE 999 Saintfield Health Centre 97 510575 Lisbane Medical Centre 97 521333 GP Out of Hours 92 602204 Chemist, Saintfield 97 510277 Ballygowan Pharmacy 97 528249 Saintfield Dental Care 97 446060 Downe Hospital 44 613311 Ards Hospital 91 812661 Lagan Valley Hospital 92 665141 Royal Group of Hospitals 90 240503 City Hospital 90 329241 Ulster Hospital 90 484511 EMERGENCY FIRE/POLICE 999 Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 NIE 08457 643 643 Phoenix Gas 0800 002 001 Water Service 08457 440 088 Down District Council 44 610800 Ards & N Down B Council 91 824000 Police (Non-Emergency) 0845 600 8000 Lifeline 0808 808 8000 Samaritans 08457 90 90 90 PIPS (Suicide Prevention) 90 755070 TRANSPORT Saintfield Taxis Translink (Ulsterbus)
97 511446 90 666630
EDUCATION Academy Primary 97 510407 Alexander Dickson Primary 97 528651 Carrickmannon Primary 97 528651 Millennium Primary 90 813688 St Caolan’s Primary 97 510757 St Mary’s Primary (S’field) 97 510758 LEISURE Ballynahinch Leisure Centre Saintfield Library The Oaks Bar Darragh Cross White Horse Inn
97 561950 97 510550 9751 9167 97 511143
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Community Pages
Free for non profit making organisations
SAINTFIELD HERITAGE PROGRAMME 15-16 All talks will be held in the Woodrow Room of Saintfield Parish Church Hall at 8:00pm 12th November 2015 THE IRISH NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL GARDENS, ISLANDBRIDGE These gardens, dedicated to the memory of World War I Irish soldiers, were designed by Sir Edward Lutyens. Our guide to these gardens will be Dr John McCullen, who has been involved with their restoration and management. 14th January 2016 HEROES, BANSHEES AND FAIRY TREES: ASPECTS OF THE IRISH FOLK TRADITION Roise ni Bhaoill will explore various aspects of storytelling and folklore with particular reference to heroic figures such as Cuchulainn and the multifarious activities of the “little people”. 11th February 2016 CAPTURING NORTHERN IRELAND’S PAST IN FILM Francis Jones, Archive Education Officer for Northern Ireland Screen, will introduce a number of short films from the Digital Film Archive documenting various facets of NI life over the last 100 years. 10th March 2016 THE BUILDING OF THE MOURNE WALL Ernie Wilson will tell the story of the building of this famous granite wall over a period of eighteen years, from 1904 until 1922.
SAINTFIELD LIBRARY
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RAVARA PRODUCTIONS Are recruiting new members for their Christmas 2015 production on 22nd December – ‘An evening of festive music, song and dance‘ (above). See pictures from previous performances right. To get involved, sign up at
www.ravaraproductions.com
For more information on any library events ring Emma 028 9751 0550
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Community Pages
Free for non profit making organisations
BALLYGOWAN SENIORS invite you to join them in a night of Caberet Cinema in the Village Hall, Ballygowan on Monday 2nd November starting at 7:30pm sharp. Audience participation encouraged at this Andre Rieu sing-a-long or dance-a-long on with the words to the songs on a 10ft screen. Light Refreshments provided afterwards. Price £5, ballots 50p each.
SAINTFIELD HARFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL is being staged again this year, for the 3rd time, from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October. Organised by the Events Committee of the Saintfield Development Association, the HarFest weekend will provide a feast of music, song and dance across all genres in the pubs, cafes, churches and even the main street, with most of the musicians from Saintfield itself. Events include “Ivan Black In Concert”; “Saturday night Family Ceilidh”; “Children’s Percussion Workshops”; “Toddlers’ Music Morning”; “Classics by Candlelight” as well as music in cafes and pubs. This year there will also be Art Exhibitions and competitions. Follow HarFest on facebook for more details. Most of the events will be free of charge, although a few formal performances will have a small entrance fee.
ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL We are a warm and friendly school with a kind, caring and welcoming, Catholic ethos who recognise that children are at the heart of both our community and school. The school is particularly proud of the vast array of musical talents the children bring to the community festivals of Saintfield. There are a wealth of exciting additions to the learning facilities at St. Mary’s, including 20 new Ipad Airs which allow the children to fully explore and showcase their ICT knowledge and know how! The playground markings are colourful and fun, comprising a junior obstacle course; a triple hop scotch, twister and an alphabet dragon! Come along to the Open evening on 3rd December and find out a little more about St. Mary’s Primary School, in Saintfield.
SAINTFIELD PLAYGROUP
Ravara Productions
Puzzle Solutions
Meets at Saintfield Parish Church Hall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays from 9.15am - 12 noon All enquiries to Hon Secretary 028 9263 9013
Crossword solution from p14:
Across: 1 Trumpet, 5 Cycle, 8 Luckier, 9 Attic, 10 Sweet, 11 Worship, 12 Expire, 14 Teases, 17 Tobacco, 19 Conch, 22 Rules, 23 Caravan, 24 Discs, 25 Destroy. Down: 1 Tells, 2 Uncle, 3 Painter, 4 Thrown, 5 Chair, 6 Catches, 7 Escapes, 12 Entered, 13 Pebbles, 15 Escorts, 16 Forced, 18 Casts, 20 Never, 21 Handy.
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Community Pages
Free for non profit making organisations
First Saintfield Presbyterian Church Sunday Services:
Church of Mary, Mother of the Church e: parishbulletin1@btinternet.com
11am & 6:30pm
Vigil Masses (Sat and Eve of Holy days): 6:30pm
Minister: Rev Jonathan Currie 21 Main Street, Saintfield Tel: 9751 9883 email: firstsaintfield@presbyterianireland.org
Ballygowan Presbyterian Church Sunday Services: 11:30am & 6:45pm Minister: Rev Brian Black Tel: 028 9752 1096 email: bblack@presbyterianireland.org Sunday School & Bible Classes 10:15-11:15am (ages 3-18) Youth Fellowship Alternate Sundays 8:15pm - 9:30pm (Sec School years 8-11) Boys Brigade Friday Evenings 6:30-7:45pm and 7:30 to 10:30pm (year 8+) Girls Brigade Weds and Sat, ring for details Youth Club 3rd Sat of month 7:30-9:30pm www.ballygowanpc.co.uk
St Joseph’s Carrickmannon Sunday Mass: 9am Holy Days: 10am Weekday Masses: Tues 10am Parish Priest: Very Rev Anthony McHugh Tel: 028 9751 0237 email: parishbulletin1@btinternet.com
Second Saintfield Presbyterian Church Sunday Services 11am Minister: Rev Dr Graham Connor Tel: 028 9751 0249 email: gconnor12@btinternet.com Ballynahinch Road, Saintfield 36
Sundays: 11am Holy Days: 8:30am & 7:30pm Weekday Masses: Mon, Wed 10am & Fri 7:30pm Parish Priest: Very Rev Anthony McHugh Tel: 028 9751 0237 or 07737 198 966 Crossgar Road, Saintfield
Saintfield Baptist Church Sundays: Sunday School 10:30am Morning Meeting & Breaking of Bread 11:30am Gospel Service 7pm Wednesdays: Searchers 6:45pm Bible Study & Prayer Meeting 8pm Youth Fellowship 1st & 3rd Sunday each month 8.30pm Friendly Hour 1st Thurs each month 10.45am Tel: 07977 645996 51 Crossgar Road, Saintfield www.saintfieldbaptist.org.uk
Ravara Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church Sunday Services: Last Sunday of each month at 3:30pm Rev. Chris Wilson The Manse Church Rd, Moneyreagh Tel: 07729 178093
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Sunday School & Bible Classes: Sundays 10am (preschool age upwards) Sunday Services: Family Worship 11:30am Prayer Mtgs at 11am & 6:30pm Gospel Service 7pm Mondays: 10-11:30am Little Sunbeams Mums and Toddlers (Term Time only) Tel: 0799085 3541 6:45 - 8pm A.W.A.N.A. Club (Year 1 to Year 10) Term Time Tuesdays: 7pm Children’s meeting (Pre-school to Year 7). 8pm Bible Study & Prayer Meeting Fridays: 8pm Youth Fellowship Saturdays: 7:30 to 9:15pm Youth Reach from Sat 17th October. Minister: Rev Alan Smylie You will be made welcome 'it is time to seek the lord.' (Hosea 10 verse 12) All enquiries: 07789 756054 or email: alsmylie@aol.com or go to Ballygowan Free Presbyterian Church on Facebook 36 Belfast Road, Ballygowan
Community Page and Church notices are FREE in the Local Focus, for all nonprofit making groups. Just email Deirdre with the details you want to include in the next issue - info@localfocusmags.co.uk
Moneyreagh Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church A friendly Church - where all are truly welcome
Sunday Service 11.30am Sunday School 10.15am (except 3rd Sunday and in months of July and August) Bible Study & Discussion Group monthly; details from the Minister. Ladybirds (Women's Fellowship) Mums and Babies, Coffee & Cake club Details for all the above from the Minister.
Minister: Rev Chris Wilson Tel: 07729 178093 email: cjwilson63@aol.com
Saintfield Parish Church Holy Communion every Sunday 8:30am and every Wednesday 10am. Sunday Services: 10:30am 1st Sunday: Holy Communion 2nd & 4th Sunday: Morning Worship Praise (with music), prayer and teaching for everyone. 3rd Sunday: All Age Worship in Parish Hall Crèche (pre P2), Sunday Club (P3-P7), Jigsaw (Form 1+) runs Sept to June. Sunday Evening Worship: Every 2nd Sunday: 7pm Sponge (Form 4+) 2nd Sunday of each month: 7.30pm DEEPER A relaxed, informal and a sharing type of worship.
Vicar: Rev Chris Pollock Office Tel: 028 97 519653 www.saintfieldparish.org.uk email:saintfieldparish@btconnect.com 45 Main Street, Saintfield
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1 Sheets + Overs LOC95436 Magazine Sig 1 Front
Ballygowan Free Presbyterian Church
Index of Advertisers Bathrooms
Garden Centre
RJS Patterson
26 Saintfield Nursery Centre
Blinds
Pet Shop 15 Beechill Pet Supplies
Garden Maintenance
Classic Blinds
Playgroups
27 Johnston’s Gardening
Boiler Servicing
27 Ballygowan Community Pre-School and Playgroup 29
Golf Club
AW Boiler Services AWJ Thompson WA Boiler Services
7 8 Back
Temple Golf Club
11
Jackie’s Unisex Salon The Gallery
Down Street Building and Joinery 8
David’s Handyman Services
22
1 Sheets + Overs LOC95436 Magazine Sig 1 Back
Farmhouse Treats
7
Children’s Activities
Angela Beattie Yoga 13 The Health and Wellbeing Company
Jo Jingles
Chimney Sweep
Health & Fitness 7
Cleaning 7
5
AWJ Thompson
ARM Locksmiths
Estate Agent Tim Martin & Co
16
DM Services
Fabrics & Curtains
25
Tree Maintenance 23
Fusion Robes
18
Yoga Classes
Painting
Quoile Fuels
2
Wardrobes
Complete Community Care
Fuel Supplies
BSD Training Kirkpatrick Tree & Landscaping
3
Optician
7 Front
17
Training
Mailing Services
20, 21
Ma.ke Soft Furnishings Windmill Fabrics
23 Saintfield Taxis 24
Locksmith
8
16 23 11
Taxi
17 Kirkpatrick Tree & Landscaping The Landscape Company
Electrician
7 Front
Eight South Lucky Boat Temple Golf Club
Landscaping
Handsome Hounds
24 16
Restaurant
9
A&R Interiors
Dog Grooming
Slimming World Weight Watchers
Soft Furnishings
Kitchens
Spring Clean
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Slimming Clubs
13 Ma.ke Soft Furnishings Windmill Fabrics
28 Interior Design 8 Home and Contract Design
Jim Chimney Sweep Sweeps Away
12
18 School 12 Academy Primary School
Handyman
Cakes & Catering
Podiatrist Mark Lowe
Hairdresser
Builders
17
16 Gareth McAuley
Puzzle Solutions
19
Angela Beattie Yoga
7
Su Doku from p22
(right)
Wordwheel solution from p24:
Answer: APTITUDE Codeword from p24, (below): 1
I
14
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A
15
R
3
E
16
L
4
C
17
G
5
6
7
19
20
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18
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8
X
21
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9
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22
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10
11
12
13
23
24
25
26
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M D
F Z
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