Congrats to Grace Roberts

Grace won a prestigous prize at this year's National Eisteddfod of Wales. A night of celebration will be held on August 26, 7.30 at Capel Bethania, Y Felinheli ( Welsh medium event but Welsh Learners welcome).
See details of story click here.

Summer Book Festival : Y Felin Sgwrsio, Y Felinheli until August 28.

Looking for a book to read over the summer or a rare book for your collection? A Book Fair is being held at Y Felin Sgwrsio, Y Felinheli until August 28 when second hand books will be for sale and when there will be an opportunity to meet some of our local authors.

Mari Emlyn will be at the Festival at 7.30 p.m. July 28, Mary Pampolini Roberts on August 12, Grace Roberts on August 28 and Emily Huws will hold a story hour for the children on August 13 at 10.30 a.m.

During the Festival, some of the secondary school pupils from the village will be showing their work at Y Felin Sgwrsio and there will be an opportunity for a cup of tea or coffee.

Y Felin Sgwrsio will be open as followsuntil August 28 :
Every Saturday 10.30 till 12
Every Mon evening at 7.30 ( apart from August 9)
Every Weds at 10 and at 2.30
Every Friday at 10 with a children's story hour at 10.30.

click for more information

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Message from Ken Brown, Chairman of the Community Council

"I would like to thank villagers who lent me photos of past carnivals over the festival. Also, as Chairman of the Community Council, I would like to congratulate the festival committee for their hard work in once again organising a successful festival. Many thanks to everyone."

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Exhibition : Pictures of Past Carnivals : Y Felin Sgwrsio

Pictures ( different to last years') to be seen at Y Felin Sgwrsio until July 17. Thanks to Ken Brown and Len Williams for their work. Tea or coffee served.Thanks to Rhian Williams for the special artwork in the window. There will be a Book Fair at Y Felin Sgwrsio over the summer : call in with your second hand books.

Times to view the exhibition :

Monday : 3 till 5 ( July 5 and 12 )
Tuesday : 6 till 7.30 ( July 6 and 13)
Weds : 10 till 12 ( July 7 and 14)
Thurs: 4 till 5.30 ( July 8 and 15)
Friday : 10 till 12.30 ( July 9 and 16)
Saturday : 11.30 till 12.30 ( July 10 and 17)

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GOOD RESPONSE TO MÊTS-IAITH - Click here for more information.

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Carnival Day July 3rd.

Gwyl y Felin 2010 : Sweeping success!

Information and photos on www.gwylfelin.org
It's been a brilliant week!

BREAKING ALL RECORDS !

Reaching the target of over 50,000 hits! Thanks for visiting!

June 2010 = 51,825 hits !!!!! wow!!!
May 2010 = 42,770 hits
April 2010 = 25,583 hits
Mar 2010 = 32,960 hits
Feb 2010 = 23,995 hits
Jan 2010 = 28,612 hits

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Thursday afternoon : Good afternoon
Pwdin came home 5 mins ago!

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Neuadd Goffa Y Felinheli

A major scheme to improve youth and community facilities at Y Felinheli got underway last week creating work for local contractors.

The Memorial Hall at the back of Bangor Street is being refurbished with the help of over £200,000 grant money from the Welsh Assembly's Community Facilities Programme and funding from Tir a Mor. Local builders EW and W Roberts won the contract to carry out the work. They are employing 7 local people on site and they are also employing local plumbers, electricians and diggers on the job that started last week.

"It's great to see this scheme getting underway," said Plaid Cymru Y Felinheli councillor, Sian Gwenllian, who submitted the grant application on behalf of the Hall Management Committee.

"The Hall will be greatly improved for the current users such as the Youth, Badminton, Indoor Bowling and Yoga Clubs and the Guides and Brownies. The new facilities will also be very useful for children's football practice, parties, drama, school gymnastics, village Eisteddfod and all sorts of other events.

"The scheme is also beneficial to the local economy with local people being employed. Some of the workers are former members of the youth club, held at the Hall and I'm sure it gives them great pleasure to be part of a scheme that will improve the facilities for future generations, including their own children perhaps."

The scheme is due to be completed in November and the Hall Management Committee wishes to apolgise for any disturbance to neighbours and Hall users whilst the work is in progress. The re-opening of the Hall will be marked with a special photographic exhibition.

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Gwyl y Felin 2010

1) You are all warmly invited to join us as we launch Felinheli Festival 2010 on Friday morning at 10 a.m. Y Felin Sgwrsio.
Ken Brown from the Community Council has been busy putting a photographic exhibition together. The press and local children have been invited to come along.There will be a coffee morning and we will unveil a new colourful window picture by our artist Rhian Williams. Come and support the start of the Festival. More details on www.gwylfelin.org. Fair Trade Tea and Coffee will be for sale for the first time this year. Enjoy all the activities !

2) The Y Felin Sgwrsio committee is collecting items for their stall on Carnival Day, July 3 : small gifts for the children's lucky dip ; bottles of all sorts for the bottle Tombola. This year's Raffle will include a framed picture of Y Felinheli by Len Williams.

3) The Felin dros 70% committee is looking for volunteers for their stall on July 3 and the night of the 10k. Contact Nigel Jones nigeljones@instantemail.t-mobile.co.uk or 07903 824411.

4) Memorial Hall : the work has started and likely to continue until mid Nov. See www.felinheli.org for more on this ... and more village news.

Very smart Felin Sgwrsio!

Felin Sgwrsio has been painted with help from CL Jones Caernarfon (
who donated the paint) and Sky engineers thanks to a community project organised by the company."They spent two days painting inside and out and have done a great job," said Cllr Sian Gwenllian, treasurer of the village venture set up in the old cafe on Bangor Street."

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IMPROVEMENTS :
New car park : a scheme for a new car park for around 20 cars at the back of the Church House is being discussed at the moment.
Improving the Lon Las : Gwynedd Council hope to upgrade the cycle track from Penbryn to Seilo including a new tramac surface, new access gates and ramps.The pavement near the kiosk in Aberpwll will be widened as part of the scheme.
Improve path at Cerrig yr Afon : The Council also intends to install a new surface ( not tarmac) and new acess gates so that cycles can use the path connecting the school and Lon Las Menai opposite the Cerrig yr Afon home. These schemes would be funded by the Mon Menai Welsh Assembly Government initiative.The above matters will be discussed by the Community Council next Tues, June 8 and detailed plans will be shown in the village.

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Gwyl y Felin 2010 Launch : the Festival will open with a coffee morning and stalls at Y Felin Sgwrsio on 11.00 a.m. Friday, June 25th with County Councillor, Sian Gwenllian. Photographs of past Carnivals will be on display again this year starting from June 25th and continuing throughout Carnival week at Y Felin Sgwrsio. These photos are different from those included in last year's popular display and if you have any you would like included, please contact Ken Brown any Friday morning at Y Felin Sgwrsio (before June 18th). Memorabillia including carnival queen dresses, trophies and programmes can also be loaned to Ken.

Memorial Hall : Major internal re-furbishment work is due to start at the Hall on June 14th and will continue until November. This work is made possible with a substantial grant from the Welsh Assembly Government's Community Facilities Programme. When the work is complete, the Hall will contain high-standard modern facilities for youth, sporting and community activities. The re-opening of the Hall will be marked with a special photographic exhibition depicting the history of the Hall over the years.

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The highest figure ever

This website has had 42,770 hits in May : the largest figure since March 2009. See graph.

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Litter collection Big Weekend

Around 20 people came to collect rubbish at Faenol on Monday. Everyone had been given a ticket to the Big Weekend. We cleared the whole car park and lots of paths around Parc Menai. Thanks to everyone for turning up at 7.30 a.m! Fantastic!

 
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Photos From Radio One Big Weekend

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Radio One Big Weekend

Radio One will be in the Vaynol this Sat and Sun with 20,000 people per day expected to attend. I attach a statement with the details. Some points to note :
1)The road from the bottom of Nant y Garth to Vaynol roundabout will be CLOSED ALL DAY Sat and Sun, expect for emergency services and buses. Cars out of the village will be directed up Nant y Garth and cars from Bangor will need to use the by-pass and enter from the Plas Menai end. The busiest times will be between 10 and 12 in the morning and after 10 at night.
2)Through traffic will not be allowed from Plas Menai APART from regular and shuttle buses to and from Caernarfon. The shuttles will drop off and pick up near the main Vaynol gates near Vaynol roundabout : this is why the road needs to be shut.There will be a walk up to the site.
3)No chairs, food, alcohol or glass will be allowed. You can take water in small sealed bottles. Under 16s will need to be accompanied by over 18s. You may need ID if you want to be served at the bar and are under 21.
If you are going : enjoy ; if not : please be patient!! - for more information click here

Alicia and North Wales!

Here is the song :

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Let's Keep Felin over 70%

A New community language plan is to be launched in Y Felinheli. The "Cadwn Felin Dros 70%" ( Let's Keep Felin over 70%) campaign will be helped by a £1,600 award from the Park Jones Trust in Caernarfon.

A meeting will be held in Y Felin Sgwrsio a week on Tuesday night( May 18) to discuss the way ahead with representatives of various community groups present to draw up the plan

"The plan aims to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a 70% threshold for Welsh in order to maintain it as the main community language." said Plan co-ordinator Aled G Job. But we also want to provide more opportunities for Welsh learners to use more of their Welsh in the community and provide a one-stop centre to provide a range of information about Welsh language resources and services locally. "

A Launch supper was held in Y Felin Sgwrsio on May 6th, and a research report on the present langugae situation in Felin presented by Elliw Griffiths of the Welsh Language Board.A New community language plan is to be launched in Y Felinheli. The "Cadwn Felin Dros 70%" ( Let's Keep Felin over 70%) campaign will be helped by a £1,600 award from the Park Jones Trust in Caernarfon.

A meeting will be held in Y Felin Sgwrsio a week on Tuesday night( May 18) to discuss the way ahead with representatives of various community groups present to draw up the plan

"The plan aims to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a 70% threshold for Welsh in order to maintain it as the main community language." said Plan co-ordinator Aled G Job. But we also want to provide more opportunities for Welsh learners to use more of their Welsh in the community and provide a one-stop centre to provide a range of information about Welsh language resources and services locally. "

A Launch supper was held in Y Felin Sgwrsio on May 6th, and a research report on the present langugae situation in Felin presented by Elliw Griffiths of the Welsh Language Board.

Yoga

Information about Yoga Lessons for the over 60's at Y Felin Sgwrsio - Click here for more.

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Coffee Morning

17/4/2010 At Berea Newydd chapel, Bangor 10 till 12 : proceeds to 2010 Cerdd Dant Festival which will be held in Bangor, Nov 13.

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Felinheli Festival

Duck Race Results

First: £100 – Christine Griffiths (850)

£ 10 Winners:

358 – Elin Gwyn
779 – Big John
636 - Lennie
814 – Mei Bonc
10 – Bethan Lloyd
498 – Sion Griffiths
321 – Gethin Jones, Rhiwlas
302 – Dave 5x4
683 – Karen a Huw, Bush Rd

Last! - Chay

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Study of A487 Caernarfon to Bontnewydd

There will be a public meeting on March 9 and 10 between 10.00 a.m and 8 p.m. and on March 11 between 10 a 2.00 at the Royal Celt Hotel, Caernarfon.
A number of routes are being considered. One would involve using the Plas Menai roundabout.

Questionnaire - Click here
Study of the A487- Click here

Introduction:

Choices:

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News from Cylch Meithrin Y Felinheli

Sponsored Cycle Ride Ras

Around £200 was raised when the children cycled along the Lon Las. This will be used to set up an internet connection for the Cylch.

Easter Disco (see photos)

The Cylch held a disco for the children on March 25 in the Church Hall to raise money for the Cylch. As well as music, the children were able to have their nails painted, tatoos( not real ones!), take part in a ball kicking competition and a duck game. Some of the children had been busy creating special easter bonnets and others were in great fancy dress costumes.

One Hundred Square

The Cylch intends to run a hundred square scheme to raise money. That is, you can buy a square ( a number between 1 and 100) for £12 a year. One number will be pulled out of the hat every month, to win a prize of £25. To support the Cylch, you can buy a square by contacting Iona on 07770821712.
.
Registering the children for the Cylch Meithrin

Any parent who wishes their child to attend the Cylch Meithrin after the summer holidays is asked to register the child as soon as possible.Ideally, the Cylch would like to have names 6 months in advance. The Cylch Meithrin is held in Caban Clyd, Ysgol y Felinheli every morning: Contact - Iona 07770821712

Cylch Ti a Fi

The Felinheli Cylch Ti a Fi for parents and young children meets every Monday and Friday, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, in Caban Clyd, Ysgol y Felinheli. The Cylch welcomes parents/minders with their children ( from birth until school age). Come along to enjot a chat in a pleasant atmosphere. The children will also be able to enjoy themselves through play, singing, listening to Welsh stories and by making friends. Cost: £1.50 per family.

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More information about grants

Information on the on-line service -GRANTnet
You can also contact :
EmmaLambHelpdesk Administrator / Gweinyddydd y Lein Gymorth
Tel / Ffôn 01970 631 132
LeinGymorth WCVA Helpdesk 0800 288 8329
Fax / Ffacs 01970 631 121
elamb@wcva.org.uk
www.wcva.org.uk
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Message from Debbie and Eilir Evans :
Here is the 2010 Vaynol 10K Entry Form : this can be downloaded from the Festival website soon. We still have a 300 runner limit so early entry is encouraged to avoid disappointment.
Easter - click here

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Events on Easter Monday- Click here

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March 2 2010

1)Planning application: the Planning Committee tomorrow nigh(Weds) will discuss an application to build 7 houses on land opposite the Half Way. They appear to be within the policies but I have asked the officers to discuss placing a “local person only” condition on them. Details in the documents.Click here for more.

2)FAIR TRADE EVENT : at Y Felin Sgwrsio this Saturday. Details from Anwen on ygwas@tiscali.co.uk who is eager to set up a Fair Trade Group in Felin.

3)FREE FIRE SAFETY ADVICE : Officers from the Fire and Rescue Service will be at Y Felin Sgwrsio from 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 11 to give advice to villagers on fire safety in the home. Call in to arrange a check of your house and there will be freebies available! Or call 0808 100 2863.

4)Village Website : if your organisation or business has a website can you please link in to www.felinheli.org. Send us your details to post@felinheli.org and we will include you on ours! An exciting interactive map about footpaths with images and village history is being developed. Let me know if you can help with the website.

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Clear Up

Boxes for the birds. Thanks to Canolfan Brynffynnon for clearing rubbish at Cerrig yr Afon and placing blue boxes on trees on Lon Las Menai.

Radio 1's Big Weekend

Chris Moyles has announced on Radio 1 that the Big Weekend will come from Bangor in May. This is a statement by the two local councillors:

The news that Gwynedd Council has been succesful in its bid to draw Radio One's Big Weekend to the Faenol near Bangor has been welcomed by local Plaid Cymru politicians.
"It's great that young people......For more Click here

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Councillor’s Report : 09/02/10

These are some of the matters I have been dealing with lately in the village:
1) Tan y Maes/Tyddyn Perthi housing: I am in discussions with the developer. Outline planning will be sought for 32 Affordable Houses. Gwynedd Council has asked for a Flood Assessment Risk. I would like to know what TYPE of houses the village needs and wants: what size and what kind of ownership? Please let me know your views.
2) Llanfairisgaer Church sign: the Welsh Assembly will erect a new sign near Plas Menai round-about
3) Tree cutting bottom of Brynffynnon : The Council has now completed this work and the rubbish will be cleared.
4) Building work Ffordd Caernarfon, near former Menai Gararge: Highways is investigating effect of this on the road.
5) Y Goriad : Alwen Derbyshire and myself are amongst 10 new editors who will edit an edition each.
6) Maes Y Felin : I am still working on dog fouling and parking problems. Enforcement officers are in the area.
7) Multi-purpose field near Lon Las: planning has been approved. I’m working with the Youth Football Team on a financial application.
8) FelinDaclus: the Assembly is using the project as an example of good practice.
9) I have been dealing with problems since the changeover in rubbish/recycling arrangements.
10) Rhyd Y Fenai: I have met officers: work continues
11) Memorial Hall: detailed plans have been produced and builders are due to be appointed early March.
12) Felin Sgwrsio: please call in on Friday mornings if you need to discuss anything. A full programme of events is in place.

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JUNIOR FOOTBALL WEBSITE

This is the address for the new website:
www.cpdiyfelinheli.com

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LOOKING FOR A GRANT?

Details about all sorts of grants for voluntary, sports and community groups are to be found in this document- Click here

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More about Haiti Appeal
Many children at the school had ideas on how to raise money for the Haiti Appeal during the World Citizenship module with Mr Iwan Jones. The idea of "Hats for Haiti" was chosen and £113.46 was raised at the school towards this cause.

In addition to the £150 raised at the quiz on the 19th Billy Hughes Gardd Fôn gave a cheque for £50 and we had a raffle last Tuesday which raised £65

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Thanks for visiting us

These are the stats since we started nearly a year ago. The aim is to reach over 30,000 :
Jan 2010 = 28,612 hits
Dec 2009 = 19,786 hits
Nov 2009 = 27,703 hits !!!
Oct 2009 = 15,305 hits
Sept 2009 = 15,509 hits
Aug 2009 = 12,113 hits
July 2009 = 22,618 hits
June 2009 = 29,839 hits
May 2009 = 27,796 hits
April 2009 = 29,487 hits
Mar 2009 (since 01/03/09 ) 25,385 hits!

2010 Raft Race

The annual raft race from Felin to Menai Bridge will be held on June 6. Full details on:
www.greatstraitraftrun.co.uk

Massive support

 
Hundreds of people took part in the Help Haiti Day at Y Felinheli on Saturday and over £2,500 has already been donated to the Appeal Fund. This includes £232.88 collected in the bucket at the shop.
"The response was overwhelming," said Esyllt Vaughan Jones, who co-ordinated the effort in the village.
"We started in the morning in the Felin Sgwrsio where streams of children bought toys, books, hot dogs, milkshakes and cakes or had their faces painted. We were hepled by the children and young people.
"In the afternoon, the focus moved to the Church House where there were all sorts of stalls - from cakes and raffles to bric-a-brac, clothes and books."
The organisers are now planning to visit a car boot sale with the goods that were left over.
"We aim to reach £3,000 over the next few weeks" said Felinheli Councillor, Sian Gwenllian who also helped organise the event.
"It was amazing to see the whole village pulling together to help the people of Haiti," she added.
"Their plight and their poverty has touched us all. May I thank all those who came along, all those who have donated money and the team of volunteers who put so much effort into the activities."
£190 was raised by the Gardd Fon quiz night.

Felin Sgwrsio is one years old

Around 25 people enjoyed a feast at the Half Way to celebrate Noson Santes Dwynwen and the Felin Sgwrsio's first birthday on Jan 25.
As part of the birthday celebrations, the Felin Fi competition was held for the children. They took pictures of their favourite things about the village. Thanks to Phill Stead for organising and Cwmni Da for the sponsorship. The winner was Cai Hughes with his unusual and effective picture of friends arm in arm. Second was Elin Jones and third Robin Williams.
"It's difficult to believe that twelve months have passed since we set up Y Felin Sgwrsio and its good to see it going from strength to strength," said Dilys Myfanwy, the Events Organiser.

Gwyl Felin 2010 ( June 25 - July 3)

Start rehearsing!
1. Stwr wrth y Dwr (Felin's Got Talent) - children Friday June 25 and adults Sat June 26.
2. Thurs, July 1 - Local produce evening to start 6-6.30, number and e-mail to Bethan Owen (bethanwyn86@hotmail.co.uk)
3. We are still looking for a secretary for the festival. Contact Bethan Owen; (bethanwyn86@hotmail.co.uk)

*Competition for Felin residents only*

News from Felin's Youth Club - 25.01.10
Iwan Owen was successful in the first round
of the Arfon Pool competition. He will be taking
part in the final in Bethesda on March 2. The winner
of that competition will face the best in Gwynedd.
Thanks to the other members for their support
on the night. Good luck Iwan in the next round!
We are busy preparing for Gwynedd Arts Week to
be held next month. We are making a grafiti wall,
cartoons, bird boxes and designing a logo for the
competition - but there's still time for a game of
football! Anyone aged between 12 and 19 are
welcome to join us at Y Felin Sgwrsio on Tuesdays at 7

Haiti Appeal

Books, toys, nearly new, jumble, cafe
home made produce, raffle, fashion stall
and much more
Sale of Work

Sadwrn/Sat , 23 Ionawr/Jan
2 – 4
Neuadd yr Eglwys,Church House,Y Felinheli

KIDS CAFE

Ddydd Sadwrn/Sat , 23 Ionawr/Jan
12.30 – 1.30
Felin Sgwrsio
Book stalls, toys, raffle and more
Milk Shakes

Casino Night

Cwis

Garddfôn Quiz Tuesday 18th January at 9.30 – Charity Quiz and Raffle all proceeds to the Haiti Earthquake Appeal

Dwynwen Celebrations

There are a few tickets left for the Dwynwen Dinner at the Half Way on Monday, 25 Jan. Tickets available from Myfanwy ( 07870688783) for 3 course dinner at £10.50. The dinner also celebatres Felin Sgwrsio's first birthday. Cawl will be served at Felin Sgwrsio at 12 on Tuesday, 26 Jan.
On Saturday, Jan 23, before the Haiti Appeal activities, some of Felin Sgwrsio's clubs will be show-casing their work from 10 a.m. onwards. At 12, the names of the winners of the children's photographic competition, Felin Fi, will be revealed.

Felin helping Haiti

Activities are being planned to raise money for the Haiti Earthquake Disaster. Please come along to the Felin Sgwrsio and Church House on Saturday, Jan 23. Any donations you have (bric a brac, cakes and jams, unwanted gifts, books, etc) can be left at Y Felin Sgwrsio on Weds,Thurs or Friday morning or phone Esyllt ( 07967163276) to arrange collection. The Church Hall will also be open 11 to 1 on Saturday for you to bring your items.
Caffi Plant will be open at Y Felin Sgwrsio between 12.30 and 1.30 on Saturday when members of Clwb Capel Bethania will be serving fresh milkshakes. There will be a toy and children's book stall and tea and coffee from 10 onwards, organised by the Felin Sgwrsio committee.
Between 2 and 4, a sale in aid of Haiti will be held at the Church House with all sorts of stalls - from homemade cakes to bric a brac. Or you can donate money. Please support in whatever way you can.

WINE CLUB
Thursday night 14th January 2010
7.30 o’clock
at Y Felin Sgwrsio
£3 a session plus membership fee
07870688783

Celebration of Saint Dwynwen
and the first anniversary of the Felin Sgwrsio
Monday night 25th January 2010
7 o’clock at the Halfway House
3 course dinner - £10.50

SOUP CLUB

Celabrating Saint Dwynwen’s Day and Y Felin Sgwrsio’s
First Anniversary
Tuesday 26/01/2010
Y Felin Sgwrsio,
Bangor Street
at Y Felin Sgwrs
12.00pm
£2.00 each
Tabletop Sale and Raffle

Here are details about two events in Felin over the holidays. Please visit www.felinheli.org to see the pictures and events of 2009.

It has been a difficult year for us as a village with a number of losses and tradegies but I hope that we can celebrate the fact that we can come together as a community to face grief and unhappiness. We should be celebrating this fact over Christmas. Nadolig Llawen iawn i bawb a Blwyddyn Newydd dda!

Boxing Day Football:

A 5 a-side football tournament for local players will be held at Cae Seilo at 11.30 (KO). Then Curry and Lobsgows will be available at the Fic and a Quiz will be held. All welcome. Proceeds to Felinheli Youth Football Team.

New Year's Day Walk:

Graham Fitch, Hen Gei Llechi, has offered to lead a 5 mile walk around Felin on New Year's Day, January 1st. To start from Y Felin Sgwrsio at 11.30. All welcome.

Lead language will be English, but Graham is learning Welsh and would welcome the opportunity to practice the language with Welsh speakers as we go along.

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Winner !

Congrats to Ieuan Roberts, Argoed for winning the www.felinheli.org competition and the £10 prize ! The names of the two houses in the picture are Bronfa and Gwynfryn. Thanks to all who entered the competition.

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More using the web-site !

These are the latest stats :

Nov 2009 = 27,703 hits !!!
Oct 2009 = 15,305 hits
Sept 2009 = 15,509 hits
Aug 2009 = 12,113 hits
July 2009 = 22,618 hits
June 2009 = 29,839 hits
May 2009 = 27,796 hits
April 2009 = 29,487 hits
Mar 2009 (since 01/03/09 only ) 25,385 hits!

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CAWL AND CAROL SINGING

Everyone is welcome to call by Y Felin Sgwrsio next Saturday ( Dec 12) for Cawl and Carol singing between 12 and 2. There will be stalls and raffles.

There will be no Councillors' session on Friday morning over the coming weeks. They will re-commence on Jan 8. If you need to discuss anything, please contact Councillor Sian Gwenllian :
01248 670866 07775642202 siangwenllian@yahoo.com

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TREE PLANTING

Volunteers at Y Felinheli planted 39 trees near the mid-village Community Car Park on Saturday. They are members of the FelinDaclus, a local group formed to improve the look of the village and make it a healthier place to live. The trees were donated by the Focus DIY store in Bangor.

They were taking part in the BBC's Breathing Places project. Groups all over Wales planted trees in the Tree O'Clock scheme.

"We are always on the look out for ways to improve the village and saw the BBC project as another opportunity to make a difference," said Councillor Sian Gwenllian, one of the organisers.

To see more photos ... click here

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TREE PLANTING

Can you spare an hour this Saturday morning, Dec 5 ( 11 - 12) so that we can plant some trees near the community car park in the village centre?

Anwen Roberts has managed to get some free trees from FOCUS in Bangor as part of the BBC's "Breathing Places" project.

The aim is to plant the trees on the small piece of land directly behind the car park and near the Cycle Track that runs from the Old Station to the bottom of Pen y Bryn.

Please wear appropriate clothes and bring a spade if you can ! Meet at the bottom of Pen y Bryn at 10.45 a.m.

For more information, click here...

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CANCELLED : We have to cancel the evening that was due to be held at Y Felin Sgwrsio tomorrow night (Dec 3). Apologies for this.

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MEMORIAL HALL : Around 30 people came together to see the new plan. Many thanks for all your valuable comments which will now be passed on to the architect. Its hoped to complete the work March - August next year.

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COMMUNITY GANG : The Council workers will be in the village over the next few days. Let me know if anything needs attention after the stormy weather.

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felinheli.org COMPETITION

This ia an old photo taken from the Menai Straits at the bottom of Snowdon Street.(courtesy of Emyr Owen). QUESTION : What are the names of the two houses in the background at the top of the hill?

Answers to post@felinheli.org by December 14 please. Remember to include your name and phone number.
PRIZE of £10 to the first correct answer out of the hat. The winner's name will apppear on the website on Dec 15.

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Congrats to Dylan a Neil ( Wedi 7, S4C last night) All the best with the new CD.

felinheli.org COMPETITION

This ia an old photo taken from the Menai Straits at the bottom of Snowdon Street.(courtesy of Emyr Owen). QUESTION : What are the names of the two houses in the background at the top of the hill?

Answers to post@felinheli.org by December 14 please. Remember to include your name and phone number.
PRIZE of £10 to the first correct answer out of the hat. The winner's name will apppear on the website on Dec 15.

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Christmas in Felin

1)Thurs, Dec 3 : Felin Sgwrsio celebrates Christmas at 7.30 p.m.
2) Gwyl Felin- Santa / Carol singing Sunday, Dec 20 at 6.00 on the Beach
3) Service at Capel Bethania : Christmas morning 9.30
4) Dec 20 – Christmas with Clwb Capel, Capel Bethania at 4.00
5)You are welcome to attend the Ysgol Pendalar Christmas service at St Mary's Church Y Felinheli on Tuesday, Dec 15 at 10.00.

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Community Council matters :
Traffic and Parking –
Reported that the Church Hall Committee have agreed in principle to transfer a parcel of land at the rear of the Hall for the purpose of creating a car park for the village. The Committee are awaiting the decision of the Church on this matter. If confirmation is forthcoming, there is need to further discuss with the Local Committee before any attempt is made to seek financial assistance by way of grants.
A scheme by Gwynedd Council to change the parking restrictions on part of Bangor Street (the parking bay from Maes Elim to beyond Felin Sgwrsio) to two hours with no restrictions over the weekend, was discussed. The Officer of Gwynedd Council was of the opinion that it would not be appropriate to change the restriction on that part of Bangor Street opposite Central Garage as this was in close proximity to other local businesses.
Gardd Fon Corner: Reported that Gwynedd Council wanted to extend the yellow lines around the corner to improve safety and visibility for pedestrians and road users alike. A map was produced to show the intention. The Chairman has been discussion with the two property owners on whom it would have the greatest effect and there was no objection at the time. There is one objection from a resident on Beach Road on the basis that parking spaces would be reduced. It was decided to request Gwynedd Council to produce a plan to extend the pavement by the toilet so as to create an obstruction to traffic. Decided that the matter be left until the next meeting. Attention ws also drawn to a complaint of beer casks on the pavement by Gardd Fon. Cllr Daniel Williams agreed to discuss the matter and at the same time discuss the possibility of using land behind the public toilets for this purpose.
Lease of 3 metres of the old railway line land near Caernarfon Road: the Clerk to write to the Council’s Solicitor in order to proceed with the legal aspect.
FELIN DACLUS -
Volunteers were requested to clear rubbish from a parcel of land near the Church Bus Stop. Agreed that the work be undertaken on Sunday, 15th November. The Chairman has requested a new bin by the bus stop where previously there was none in that part of the village.
Cerrig yr Afon : reported that grant money had been earmarked by Gwynedd Council to create an improvement scheme to the fencing, and entrance to the woodland and public footpath.
Youth Club – Bird boxes project : one of the boxes was shown and it was reported that the scheme is progressing well.
Private footpath between Uwch Menai/Penceunant, Menai Street. A request for assistance to clear the path had been received. It was agreed to visit the site and collect the names of residents living close to and discuss the application at the next meeting.
Rowen Health Centre : Reported that the Local Health Board had approved the
plans.
Affordable Housing : Reported that a planning application had been lodged by Snowdon Developments for 32 affordable houses (a mixture of 2,3 and 4 bedroomed houses) on a site between Y Wern and Tan y Maes and on part of Tyddyn Perthi land. There will be an opportunity for the Community Council to closely inspect the plans.
Work within the Village : Reported that work had been done outside the houses at Maes y Felin and Rhyd y Fenai at the request of the County Councillor and obvious improvement was to be seen. There is some work outstanding and the Councillor will ensure that this will be happening.
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HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE - reported that consultations have taken place with hall users’ groups and a public meeting will be arranged to show the plans. Reported that £83,000 Assembly grant is available before the end of March 2010 and the remainder before the end of the 2011 financial year. A meeting of the Hall Management Committee was held following the Community Council meeting to detail the work.

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Decided that a sum of £200 be donated to Friends of the School, to purchase a shed to store playing equipment. This followed an applciation made in May that was deferred in order for Friends of the School to submit details of their application.
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Footpaths – the Clerk was requested to contact the local Rural Development Officer to arrange a joint meeting with other community councils who wish to proceed with a pamphlet of their local footpaths. It was considered that collaboration was the best way forward with this project.
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Footpaths Survey : the Clerk was to consult with Gwynedd Council to see what work has been organised in light of problems noted by the Community Council and related through the survey.

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A written report was produced:
A pamphlet was distributed to every councillor outlining the serious financial problems faced by Gwynedd Council and the cost cutting measures being discussed at the moment. Councillors were asked to discuss its contents with local residents and to convey their observations / concerns, to the County Councillor. Final decisions will be made in December and the Councillor is anxious to hear any comment before then. Two meetings have been held with the nursery school that are apprehensive of the effect that one measure will have on the service they are offering to young children.
Details were related of plans afoot by the Football Club to develop land near the industrial units near the Old Railway Station (Penningtons). They wish to develop a multi purpose sports area for the village incorporating a parking area and changing rooms. This is dependant on grant money being available. It also means securing a lease on the land from Gwynedd Council. There will still be sufficient room for allotments – on land nearer Caernarfon.

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Further matters reported on verbally:

Reported that the Councillor had been in discussion with the owner of
Pink Palace and that he had agreed to move the old car and the brown container by the bridge crossing to the Marina. He has also agreed to move the kerbing that is on the public footpath towards the Menai near the red and white barrier so that wheeled chairs are able to gain access.

Reported that an application had been made for a ‘No Parking’ sign on a piece of land near the entrance to Lon Las at the bottom of Penybryn hill as a car that parks there is preventing ambulances and large vehicles from going up the hill.
Reported that Gwynedd Council will be cutting the overgrowth at the bottom of Brynffynnon (on both sides) following a request from the Councillor.
Reported that the Councillor is leaning on Gwynedd Council to act following a complaint of noise from 9 Caernarfon Road.

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Invitation - MEMORIAL HALL Y FELINHELI

An Open Meeting to view the proposed plans for the Felinheli Memorial Hall is to take place on Monday 30 November 2009 at 7.p.m. in the upper level of the Memorial Hall.
A warm welcome is extended to all.

YOUTH CLUB LADS WIN PRIZE

Congratulations to Bryn Owen, Ashley Japheth and Daniel Hughes from Clwb Ieuenctid Y Felinheli (Youth Club) for winning a prize as part of Gwynedd's week for Children and Young People, Wythnos Ni. The three gained OCN Team Building through Experiential Learning Awards. They had arranged and cooked a meal for three at the Felinheli under very difficult circumstances as the Hall has no kitchen at the moment.Thanks to Nia Owen, Bangor Schools Youth Worker and Naomi Boyle and Sarah Roberts, Youth Club Leaders for their support.

The certificates were presented to the lads by Councillor Sian Gwenllian who had received trhem on behalf of the Club at a Prize Giving Ceremony at Bangor on November 17. Well done boys for putting the Felin Youth Club on the map and for taking part in the competition.The Club is open to young people from Year 8 onwards at Y Felin Sgwrsio and Memorial Hall every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. The Hall will be refurbished next year and will provide excellent facilities for the Youth Club.

IN THE PICTURE : Bryn Owen and Ashley Japheth

Memorial Hall, Y Felinheli : major re-haul

An evening to view the plans for the Hall will be held in the upper part of the Hall on Monday, November 30 at 7p.m. The plans will be explained in full. Consulation has been taking place with the user groups over the past weeks. The work is scheduled to begin next year and is being funded by a substantial grant from the Welsh Assembly government's Community Facilities Programme. All welcome to view the plans for this exciting refurbishment scheme.

A Christmas celebration

There will be a special evening at Y Felin Sgwrsio on Dec 3 (Thurs ) to celebrate Christmas. Tickets available from Y Felin Sgwrsio. There will be a stall and crafts for sale and also entertainment. Please bring anything you wish to donate to the Felin Sgwrsio over the next few weeks.

The Clwb Cawl will meet at lunch time November 24 and there will a Christmas tea for members of Cymeithas yr Henoed on Novemeber 27.

No Felin Sgwrsio session next Friday.

As a sign of respect to the late Marcia Williams and her family and friends, there will be no councillor's drop-in-session next Friday ( Nov 20).

The area is still in shock after hearing the sad news about her untimely death. Marcia had worked as a cleaner at the local school for over 20 years and was well-know to all the local children.

CLEARING RUBBISH

Community Councillors Daniel Williams and Carolyn Pritchard join County Councillor Sian Gwenllian to clear an area of rubbish in Felinheli last weekend. They are members of FelinDaclus, the local group that campaigns on rubbish and dog fouling matters in the village.

	"We cleared a small area that was strewn with old cans, broken bottles and general rubbish," said Sian Gwenllian. "It is near the bus stop near St Mary's Church at the Caernarfon end of the village. It's obvious that people have been chucking rubbish over the wall onto private property which we have now cleared.   The smell here was disgusting and we even found an old mouldy nappy amongst the rotting rubbish. "I have asked Gwynedd Council for a bin to be placed near the bus stop as there aren't any bins in this part of the village. "In the meantime , I hope that people will take their rubbish home. I'm grateful to Councillors Daniel Williams and Carolyn Pritchard for their help in clearing the rubbish."

FELINHELI CRAFT FAIR

At the Pinc Palas

November 12th

7.00pm – 9.00pm

£1 at the door

Profit to Ysgol Y Felinheli

Do your Christmas shopping and support local craft artists.

All kinds of stalls: food, T shirts and cards.

Tuesday November 10th

The Annual General Meeting of the Felinheli Festival Committee will take place on Tuesday evening November 10th at 8.15 at Y Felin Sgwrsio. A warm welcome to anyone who wishes to attend the General Meeting.

Fireworks Display, Beach Road, Thursday, Nov 5 at 7p.m

NEWS FROM Y FELIN SGWRSIO
There are all sorts of activities - including three new clubs.
Y Felin Sgwrsio : Every Week
Mondays : Spanish conversation ( 7.30);
Wednesdays ( 10 -12 ) Computer Clinic ;
Thursdays (10 - 12) Felin ers Talwm ( history group) ;
Fridays ( 10 - 12) Councillors' drop-in-session ;
Saturday ( 11 - 12.30) Welsh Learners Club.

Felin Stori childrens' reading club continues to meet every Thursday at 5.30 p.m. The Youth Club is there on Tuesday nights. Three new clubs meet once a month : Do you take Sugar ( for those with Diabetes) - third Wednesday of the month at 7 ; Film Club ( please check, usually last Sunday of the month) and Wine Club ( second Thurs of the month at 7.30). Further details from Myfanwy : 07870688783

FELIN SGWRSIO DATES TO NOTE : Nov 27 Clwb yr Henoed Christmas Tea (3.30); Dec 3 Blas y Nadolig

COUNCIL CUT-BACKS
Over the next three years Gwynedd Council has to make millions of pounds worth of cuts in services.
The councillors are looking at the options at the moment and decisions will be taken in December. We must choose from the following list and I would like your opinions. My work will be to weigh up the different options and try to decide which ones will be cause the least harm. Some very difficult decisions need to be taken but I will try to prioritise the most vulnerable in our community - especially amongst children, young people, those with disabilities and older people. I hope you agree with this as a basic principle.
Here I try to summarise the least acceptable options:
1)Less work to road surfaces
2)Decrease the level of service to adults with learning disabilites (communication skills) under the Person Centred Scheme.
3)No supplementary support for children in Women's Aid Refuges, They will continue to receive the support of social workers if needed.
4)Decrease number of staff needed to supervise in swimming pools.
5)Close finance offices including Caernarfon and Bangor
6)Raise fees for using most popular public toliets and close some ( does not include Beach Road toilet at present).
7)Reduce budget to special schools including Pendalar
8)Turn off street lights between 1 and 5 a.m. expect in mid-towns and class 1 roads.
9)Close leisure centres at least busy times
10)Re-vamp residential and nursing care which will mean less residential homes and more Extra Care housing, more nursing beds and more beds for those will memory problems.
11)Change entrance criteria for adult services which will mean less older people and less people with learning disabilities will be able to get help for home and residential care
12)Reduce number of teachers in secondary schools
13)Reduce provision for pupils with behavioural and emotional probelms - including closing Canolfan Brynffynnon. The children would remain in main-stream schools and be supported there.
14)Raise primary school dinner to £2.80 a meal ( from £1.80 ). There would be less demand and less kitchen staff.
15)Introduce fee of £5 per week for transport for those over 16 who live more than 3 miles from school or college.
16)Less accomodation for adults with learning disabilities and promote "living in the community".
17)Less staff to work on food safety etc ( Public Protection).
18)Reduce staff in primary schools - teachers, class assistants
19)Cuts to some bus services
20) 3 year old children to get their education (2 hours) in the schools rather than in nursery groups ( children accepted 3 times a year rather than once) The Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin would lose their grant and this could affect the Cylch Ti a Fi and it would be difficult to provide a Cylch Meithrin for children between 2 and a half and 3 years old.
21)Less support for schools by reducding the grant to CYNNAL ( fall in standards).
22)Get rid of the Arfon Area Planning Committee and create one committee for Gwynedd.
23)Reduce the improvement work on less used public footpaths.
24)Reduce size of grants to Stroke Association,Age Concern, Citizens Advice Bureau, GISDA.
25)Get rid of Penrallt offices. Move jobs to south of county.
26)Reduce Free Swim programme.
27)Close language therapy units e.g. Coed Mawr and provide the service in the schools through training.
28)Less visits to schools by the Library Service.
29)More use of volunteers with day service for adults with learning disabilities (comparative low needs) and less centres.
30)Less grants for community halls like the Memorial Hall (Youth Club will continue to get grant).
31)Empty community recycling centre less often e.g. near Half Way
32)Delete fiancial package to those with mental illness and in hardship ( extra to benefits)
33)Decrease grants to arts
34)Reduce budget for equipment for those who need occupational therapy by working with other agencies.
35)Raise fees for matters such as pest control and planning applications.

These are some of the most controversial options These do not include the cutbacks that can be made by better co-operation ; staff re-structuring and selling property ( the Industrial units near Penningtons will be offered for sale to the tenants.) More details an all this at www.gwynedd.gov.uk
I would like to hear your views if you have a minute to spare - which options do you favour most and which least.? Thanks for your attention.

Councillors' Report
1)PLANNING MATTERS
a)Bron Menai : the Inspector has approved the application for a second house after the matter went to appeal.
b)11 Ffordd Caernarfon: permission to demolish the house and build 4 flats has been given. The parking bay will be marked.
c)Application for 7 two-bedroomed houses opposite the Half Way : this is being discussed by officers and the developer at the moment. According to officers, the arguments against the development are weak but a clause could be included to ensure that these are houses for local people. The application can be seem on the Council website (gwynedd.gov.uk)
2)PARKING : the Community Council is conducting a survey to find out the extent of the problem mid-village. There may be an opportunity to create a parking area at the back of the Church House ( discussions have started with the Church). Another idea being discussed is allowing people to park for 2 hours instead of 30 mins on the part of Bangor Street opposite Cut Above- with no restriction at the weekend. Contact me if you don't agree!
30MEMORIAL HALL : the architect is working on a major improvement scheme. There will be a chance for villagers to view the scheme soon.
4)FELIN IN BLOOM evening : Thanks to Councillor Pat White for arranging again this year. See www.felinheli.org
5)YOUTH CLUB : i have been working with the Youth leaders on a bird boxes project. The Club meets at Y Felin Sgwrsio and at the Memorial Hall and has attracted a number of new members.
6)FELIN SGWRSIO : a full programme of events is underway. I am available ther most Friday mornings. Call and see us.
7)RUBBISH : a new bin has been placed in the playing field on Beach Road and the broken bin has been replaced near the swings. There is a new bin on Bangor Street and Chans have agreed to place a bin outside. There was a rubbish collection event at Rowen and Lan Mor with school children (lpictures on ar www.felinheli.org)
8)COMMUNITY GANG : I discuss the work schedule on a regular basis. It includes grass cutting, weeding, and minor work around the village. The village has improved as a result. Let me know of anything that needs attention. A lot of work has happened at Maes y Felin and work is due to be carried out at Rhyd Y Fenai.
9)COMMUNITY POLICE : Gethin Edwards has been appointed as the PCSO and we have a new CBM at last Andy Jackson is available on 07896 170116 or andrew.jackson@nthwales.pnn.police.uk I am working with Andy to tackle the dog fouling problem in the village.
10)COUNTY LEVEL WORK : I continue to be a member of the Schools re-organisation Panel and Chair of the Youth Service re-organisation group and a member of the Skills Working group. I am also a member of Ysgol Felinheli and Ysgol Syr Hugh ( on the Buildings, Finance and Curriculum panels). There are some cut-backs on the way that will affect council services. Matters that can have a direct effect on Felin - cut in the grant to the Cylch Meithrin, the future of Canolfan Brynffynnon, staffing levels in the schools, selling industrial units etc. No decisions have been taken yet.
11)FERODO : following the decision not to proceed with the prison, the Council is discussing other options for the site.
12)OLD RAILWAY LAND : part of the land near some houses on Ffordd Caernarfon will be offered for sale but 3 metres of the track will be retained for a path/cycle track for the future. The land is to be offered on lease to the Community Council.
13)CARAVAN near the public footpath to Dinas. This is on Gwynedd Council land and the matter is in the hands of the legal department.
14)ROAD SAFETY : a new hump will be placed on Ffordd Brynffynnon near the school entrance ( Canolfan Brynffynnon) and new signs will be placed. ARAF/SLOW will be placed near the Gardd Fon. The Council also wishes to extend the double yellow lines around the corner outside the Gardd Fon . 3 parking spaces would be lost. I am discussing with the landlord and next door neighbours. Comments please ! The matter will be discussed at the next Community Council.
15)OLD RAILWAY LAND near PENNINGTONS: a grant may be possible to build a synthetic pitch on the land near the industrial units. It's early days and this will be discussed by the Community Council.

Gardening Competition - Y Felinheli in Bloom

Results:
In the business category the winners were Tafarn y Fic, with Hotel Plas Dinorwic second and Halfway House third.
Hanging Baskets - 1st Mr M. Edwards, Four Crosses, Siloh; 2nd Mr Bryan Ward, Bryn Rhedyn, Brynffynnon.
Window Boxes/Patios - 1st Mr and Mrs Parry, 1 Bush Road, 2nd Mr and Mrs D. Coates, Sycharth, Bangor Street, 3rd Mr and Mrs K.F. Williams, 23 Trem y Foel.
Small Garden - 1st Mrs A. Oxton, Siloh, 2nd Mr and Mrs Harrison, 44 Caernarfon Road, 3rd Mr and Mrs G. Owen, Elim Cottages, Siloh
Large Garden - 1st Mr and Mrs D. Jones, Craig y Don, 2nd Mr and Mrs J.H. Owen, Tan'rallt, Brynffynnon, 3rd Mr and Mrs Pepper, Beechwood, Siloh.
The overall winner - Mr and Mrs D. Jones, Craig y Don.

A presentation evening was held at the Hotel Plas Dinorwic on 29th September chaired by County Councillor Sian Gwenllian and attended by Hywel Williams MP who presented the prizes.

NEWS FROM Y FELIN SGWRSIO

There are all sorts of activities - including three new clubs:

BODY SHOP : At Y Felin Sgwrsio on Wednesday Oct 28, 7.30 p.m. Tickets from Pat Jones 01248 670646
CAWL : At Y Felin Sgwrsio, Tuesday, Oct 27 12 - 2. Tickets from Myfanwy : 07870688783
COFFEE MORNING : At Y Felin Sgwrsio, Friday, October 30 11 a.m.

Y Felin Sgwrsio : Every Week ( apart from school holidays) Mondays : Spanish conversation ( 7.30); Wednesdays ( 10 -12 ) Computer Clinic ; Thursdays (10 - 12) Felin ers Talwm ( history group) ; Fridays ( 10 - 12) Councillors' drop-in-session ; Saturday ( 11 - 12.30) Welsh Learners Club. Felin Stori childrens' reading club continues to meet every Thursday at 5.30 p.m. The Youth Club is there on Tuesday nights. Three new clubs meet once a month : Do you take Sugar ( for those with Diabetes) - third Wednesday of the month at 7 ; Film Club ( please check, usually last Sunday of the month) and Wine Club ( second Thurs of the month at 7.30). Further details from Myfanwy : 07870688783

FELIN SGWRSIO DATES TO NOTE : Nov 27 Clwb yr Henoed Christmas Tea (3.30); Dec 3 Blas y Nadolig ; Dec 11 : Christmas coffee morning.

Cynghorydd / Councillor Sian Gwenllian (Plaid Cymru)
gwefan y pentref/village website : felinheli.org
01248 670866 07775642202
Awelfryn, Pen y Bryn, Y Felinheli, Gwynedd LL56 4YQ
Felin Sgwrsio, Stryd Bangor : Gwener/Friday 10 - 12

Celebrating the lives of two famous Welsh poets
This could be of interest to pupils studying for their GCSEs or A-level Welsh. Click here to view a poster promoting activities during the T.H.Parry-Williams and R.Williams Parry Festival, held on the weekend of October 31st-November 1st. The festival will celebrate the vast contribution of these two poets to the Welsh culture, celebrating especially the way they were inspired by the landscape of Snowdonia. The festival is organized in partnership by the Academi, Gwynedd Council and Bwrlwm Eryri.

On Saturday, October 31st at 2pm, Twm Elias will lead a Rhyd Ddu History and Nature Trail, with refreshments and a talk by the Chief poet Iwan Llwyd to follow at Ty’r Ysgol, Rhyd Ddu.

Also, on the Saturday night, at 7,30pm, a Talwrn (Poetic Contest) will be held at Caffi Gwynant, Nant Gwynant. Adjudicating, will be the Chief poet, Mei Mac .

On Sunday, November 1st, at 2pm, Dr Gwynfor Pierce Jones and Dr David Gwyn will be leading a Talysarn History Trail, will refreshments and a talk by the poet Karen Owen to follow at the Bandstand, Talysarn.

(* Please note that all festival activities will be held through the medium of Welsh *).

LITTER PICK

In the picture are children from Canolfan Brynffynnon who helped clear rubbish during Keep Wales Tidy Week

Many thanks to all who helped with the litter pick on Sept 25 at Rowen and Beach Road.

Children from Ysgol y Felinheli, Canolfan Brynffynnon and Ysgol Dyffryn Ogwen were helped by County Councillor Sian Gwenllian, MP Hywel Williams, teachers, Keep Wales Tidy and Gwynedd Council staff. - click here to view photos

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NO PRISON ON FERODO SITE

This was how the government announced that there will be no prison on the old Ferodo site in Caernarfon
MoJ statement: Prison in Caernarfon
Prisons Minister Maria Eagle said:

"After careful consideration, the Ministry of Justice has decided to withdraw its interest in acquiring the former Dynamex site near Caernarfon in North Wales .

"We have a responsibility to ensure we get best value for the taxpayer. We were aware of potential issues with this site, and our due diligence procedures established that it is not suitable for prison development.

"As part of our new site search process, which we intend to be open and consultative, we will work with the Wales Office, Welsh Assembly Government and others to identify any potential new sites in Wales .

"The decision to withdraw does not affect our plans to sell the site of the former police training college at Cwmbran, nor does it affect our commitment to provide 96,000 prison places by 2014, which we are still on target to achieve."

This was the statement issued by Councillor Sian Gwenllian ( Ferodo is in the Felinheli ward) :
"This is sad news for all those who had hoped to gain employment at the new prison. Although I had my doubts about the scheme, I could see that a small-scale prison would have been beneficial for the local economy and for the families of Welsh prisoners.
It now seems the Ministry is looking for a much larger prison but I would be totally opposed to a large scheme at Ferodo.
The needs of North Wales seem to be of extemely low priority for the government at Westminster - both in economic and justice terms. The sooner we have our own justice service in Wales and more powers ior the Assembly, the better."

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EXTENDED FAMILY MODEL OFFERS NEW HOPE

The model of the extended family is at the heart of changes
to be introduced in religious service in Y Felinheli.

From next Sunday( September 13), the Clwb Capel and service
at Bethania/Elim will join forces at a new time of 10.30.

"The idea is to re-establish a pattern where children,
young people and adults can worship together and create a
sense of an extended family which can sustain each other
and reach out to the wider community" said Aled G. Job , one
of the officers.

"The clwb capel and traditional service tended to operate
as two completely different entities and the hope is that
this union can make us stronger."

He added that this initial change could also herald further
changes in the nature of the service itself.

"We have to make the service more relevant to the needs of
today and that means opening the door to new ways of doing
things."

"We share our faith with millions of people throughout the
world and we have to draw on this strength in communicating
our message locally!"

Parti llefaru Parti'r Heulyn

Sefydlwyd y parti llefaru pan gynhaliwyd yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol yn y Faenol yn 2005. Ers hynny mae'r parti wedi cystadlu 4 gwaith gan gynnwys Eisteddfod y Bala o dan arweiniad Sian Mair sydd gyda phrofiad eang o lefaru. Mae Sian yn un o enillwyr Llwyd o'r Bryn.

Mae'r parti wedi bod yn cyfarfod ar ol y Nadolig i baratoi ar gyfer yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol. Mae'r sesiynnau ymarfer wedi bod yn cael eu cynnal yng Nghapel Bethania ar nos Lun.

Cysylltwch gyda Nerys John ar 670634

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FFILM Y FELIN KICKS OFF

A new film Club, FFILM Y FELIN will be launched in Y Felin Sgwrsio next Sunday night, August 2.

FFILM Y FELIN will show world cinema films once a month, and the first film to be show is the acclaimed Gaelig language film SEACHT(2008) which has received several film awards over the past year.

SEACHT( The Inaccessible Pinnacle) will be presented by Jonathan Ervine, A French lecturer at Bangor University, who is also a member of Clwb y Dysgwyr at y Felin Sgwrsio.

"Seacht is a film which takes a look at contemporary Scottish life along with Scottish mythology by means of the relationship between a grand-father and his grand-son."

"It is a very powerful film and I think people who come along will really enjoy it" said Jonathan.

Cheese and wine will be served at the launch, and there will also be an opportunity for people to join the Ffilm y Felin during the evening.

The evening will start at 7.00. More details from Aled G Job ( Chair of Y Felin Sgwrsio) 07818 068 205.

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SUMMER 2009

Second hand Welsh and English books will be for sale at Y Felin Sgwrsio throughout the summer holidays. There's a good selection of all kinds of books - with more books arriving as others are sold. Please bring your books along ( must be in good condition). The centre will be open at the following times ALL SUMMER with committee members present to offer tea and coffee.

Monday evening : 7 - 8.30 p.m. (The group who meet to chat in Spanish will also meet.)
Wednesday 10 - 12
Friday 10 - 12
Saturday 11 - 12.30 (The Welsh learners group will also continue to meet.)

The usual Club activities will continue in September - with the welcome addition of the Youth Club on Tuesdays on a regular basis. The venue is usually available for meetings on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and at other times - please contact Sian Gwenllian to book. £5 per session with room for up to 25 people.

Other events are planned for the autumn - and please pass on any suggestions to committee members.

We have had a very full and successful first year - see what's been happening on www.felinheli.org.

Many thanks to everyone for their support.

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Councillors Report

June/July 2009

1. Off-street Parking : the Community Council is holding a survey to find out the extent of the problem in the mid-village area and discussing possible solutions. Maes y Felin : can you please note that parking is for tenants only.
   
2. Caernarfon Road Bus Stop : whilst appreciating that not all local residents are happy, we now have a permanent location for the bus stop in this area. This was the location suggested by Gwynedd Council as being the best compromise under the circumstances.
   
3. I have been discussing ways of developing the Youth Club with the Leader and with Gwynedd officers. From September onwards the Club will use the Felin Sgwrsio (7 till 8) and the Memorial Hall (8 till 9) on Tuesday evenings. When work on the Hall has been completed, there will be first-class facilities available. In the meantime, the Leader felt that sharing both venues opened up more opportunities for the members. An outdoor project to build bird boxes and a broadwalk in the small woodland at the back of the Community Car Park will take place from September onwards with the help of a grant from FelinDaclus (environmental group) who have been working with Tidy Towns and Gwynedd Council on a number of projects. The Youth Club is open to all village young people from Year 8 onwards.
   
4. A grant of £1,000 has been received by FelinDaclus to research the idea of allotments for the village. I have had a meeting with Gwynedd Council and Tidy Towns and a project scheme will be drawn up. FelinDaclus members will visit other areas in the autumn to gather information. There has been a lot of interest in this idea. The land near the Lon Las at the back of Arvonia is being considered as the best location.
   
5. Lon Las : a new bridge has been installed at Seilo. The tree that had fallen on the path near Tai Hen Stesion was promptly moved.
   
6. Footpaths : I have asked Gwynedd Council to carry out maintenance work off the three paths running off Caernarfon Road.
   
7. The Community Gang was at work in the village again last week carrying out a list of work agreed between the Council and myself. They cut back vegetation in a number of places, repainted the bench at the end of Terfyn Terrace and repaired the wall. They will return next month.
   
8. Homes for local people : A developer is considering submitting a planning application for a mixed development of up to 30 new homes near Y Wern.
   
9. Dwr Cymru have been asked to investigate the water that collects near properties on Caernarfon Road. A burst pipe that was affecting the Lon Las near Tafarngrisiau has been repaired. The problem of bad odour coming from the sewerage pipe on the Lon Las behind Arvonia has still not been resolved.
   
10. Felin in Bloom : gardens are being inspected and judged over the next two weeks and there will be an award ceremony in September. Thanks to Councillor Pat White (07765411475) for arranging the event.
    
11. Lon Inclein : new signs prohibiting large vehicles have been erected by Gwynedd Council in an effort to prevent further damage to the walls either side of this narrow road.
    
12. Rhyd Y Fenai : I have had a site meeting with a Gwynedd officer. I am still concerned about the untidy land around the houses.
    
13. Many thanks to the organisers of this year's Gwyl Y Felin for a highly successful event. The newspaper report following the incidents that happened hours after the official end of the Carnival was highly exaggerated and we must keep things in perspective. I witnessed one incident when a youngster was put into a police car and pepper spray was used inside the car, and another incident when two youths from outside the village started fighting outside the public toilets on Beach Road. However, these incidents must not be taken lightly and I will be working with the Gwyl Committee and the police to prevent similar problems next year.
    
14. Dog Foul - continues to be a problem in some parts and I am working with the local police officer. Persistent offenders are being recognised and will be targeted. Some of the worst areas include around the bus stop at Aberpwll, the back of Bangor Street, Bangor Street itself, the Lon Las behind Arvonia, the Community Car Park. Most dog owners are very responsible.
    
15. Japanese Knotweed : this is becoming a major problem in the village. It needs to be sprayed systematically by a licenced operator. For more infromation, contact Community Council Clerk, Wynne Barton on 01286 673036.
    
16. Here to Help scheme was launched in Felin. Private house owners can get help with insulation and energy saving measures. Please contact Adrian Roberts at Gwynedd Council

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