Donabate Local Volume 1 Issue 13

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Moving home?

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Call Dave: 087 2272841 Keen Rates

Valentines special feature inside

Active Age-Yoga, Bowling and Men’s Shed (See Page 4)

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Our Team Local News

Editor E. communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Inside This Months Issue Active-Age

What to wear on Valentine’s date

Advertising

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

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Production

Tim Evans T. 086 856 8181 E. communitylocalsdesigner@gmail.com

Crossword & Sudoku

10 Recipe of the Month

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Donabate & Portrane Local Magazine Email: communitylocals@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ DonabatePortraneLocal

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Donabate & Portrane Local Disclaimer

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

STRICT DEADLINE FOR MARCH EDITION: 15th February for inclusion in our March edition.

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Valentines 2018 Romance by the Sea

Treat that someone special in your life this Valentines to an overnight stay and a romantic dinner by the sea. Your special day will start with prosecco on arrival and the loved up couple will be allocated one of our seafront rooms that will be specially decorated with rose petals on the bed. The couple will also enjoy romantic meal with a delicious 5 course candlelit dinner in our restaurant. The sea is right on our doorstep for you to take a romantic walk on the beach.

Valentines Overnight Stay Offer 1 night Bed & Breakfast Prosecco on Arrival, 5 course dinner with bottle of wine Standard seafront room Late check out 1pm Rose petals decoration Any day of the week @ €130 *Subject to Availability

Valentines Dinner Offer 5 Course Dinner + Bottle of Wine for €69.00 for two

Valentines & Tower Bar & Bistro Special Valentines Cocktail and Candlelit setting and romantic music to set up the mood on Valentines weekend *All offers available from the 9th of February until the 18th of February * Booking Required

To book please visit www.watersidehousehotel.ie Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

DONABATE LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2018

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Local News

Active Age-Yoga, Bowling and Men’s Shed Active Age for All was formed 2 years ago with the support of Fingal County Council Community Department. AAfA operates out of the Donabate Portrane Community Centre where the Manager, Jacinta Lowndes, facilitates our activities and the Donabate Library under Alan Dunne also offers space for classes & talks.

At present there are over 200 members from various walks of life. So if you are 55+, join us!

We run a programme of about 20 activities from Yoga to Ukulele, French, Spanish, Photography and Pilates to name but a few! We also have a Men’s Shed Group which meets every Thursday in Café Natural in the Community Centre.

See www.activeageforall.com for all information about us, including discounts that can be availed of with the membership card. The programme is available on the Noticeboard in DPCC as well.

We are privileged to have so many people with such diverse skills and talents willing to offer their services. Together they designed the programme and structure of the organization. One of the aims of AAfA is to promote a spirit of self-help and independence and to encourage members to use their energy and skills for the benefit of each other and their community. It is a great way for people new to the area, or for the newly retired, to

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meet and socialise.

At the end of January members renewed and signed up for the next set of classes but if you want to join us, just contact activeageforall@ gmail.com or text ‘new member’ to 086 880 6808 and we will contact you.

At present we have places available in Fit & Fun (chair based exercises) and Bowls. We are actively looking for bowlers, so come along to the Community Centre Sports Hall on Tuesdays and Thusdays at 3.00-5.00.

Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

If it’s good enough for Neven...

“The beef is superb… it is the best we have ever used” Atthe theCountry CountryCrest CrestFarm Farm Shop proud to sell premium 30 day At Shop wewe areare proud to sell premium 30 day ageddry-aged beef raised

beef raised on our own farm in North County Dublin. We also stock Sheridan’s cheese,

on our own farm in North County Dublin. We also stock Sheridan’s cheese, freshly baked freshly baked cakes and breads, locally-grown vegetables, and the very best of Irish artisan produce. cakes and breads, locally-grown vegatables, and the very best of Irish artisan produce.

Country Crest Farm shop at Jones Garden Centre, JunCtion 4, m1, open 7 days a week. CountryCrestFarmshop.ie Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

DONABATE LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2018

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Local News

Minister Moran addresses coastal erosion Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Flood Relief, Mr Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, TD, visited Portrane to meet with local residents concerned about coastal erosion and flooding in their area on Friday January 26.

The Minister and senior officials from the OPW met with Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid as well as senior staff from the Council’s Planning Department.

During the visit, the Minister expressed his Department’s support of the approach adopted

by Fingal County Council to deal with the very difficult and complex problems of coastal erosion and flooding in the area.

Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid welcomed the Minister’s visit and said: “The Fingal Coastal Liaison Group comprises Elected Councillors and Community Representatives from Fingal’s coastal areas. We have worked closely with them to devise a targeted plan to address coastal flooding concerns around Portrane and Rush. I’m delighted to meet Minister Moran here today and welcome his support.”

While visiting Portrane, Minister Moran met with residents including members of the Fingal Coastal Liaison Group as well as several local representatives.

Raymond Brett of the Liaison Group explained the concerns of the residents particularly around the issue of erosion and emphasised the urgent need for coherent national policies and initiatives to assist the Council and other agencies to deal with coastal erosion.

Welcoming the Minister’s visit, Mayor of Fingal Cllr Mary McCamley said: “The Minister’s visit is significant as it helps to raise awareness of the problems caused by coastal erosion. It also assists Fingal County Council and the Liaison Group in their efforts to adopt a policy to resolve the issue and I look forward to seeing the progress that will be made.”

Cycle Against Suicide Congress at the 3 Arena

By Lara Rooney- a TY student.

Donabate Community College student leaders Jake O’Toole, Kevin Carr, Matthew O’Hagan, John Troy, Moya Smith, Hannah Bryans, Nicole Manning, Nathan O’Rourke, Lara Rooney, Leo Flood, Andreas Grogan, Aaron Long and Emma Moran attended a Student Leaders’ Congress for Cycle Against Suicide on the 18th January 2018 at the 3Arena. The theme of this year’s Student Leaders’ Congress is ‘Empower your Voice.’

We created a video on this theme #empoweryourvoice in which students in our school explain ways in which their voices are empowered during school.

At the 3Arena we showcased the work on wellbeing we are doing here in DCC. Transition Year students helped to organise events such as the Gratitude Tree, No Social 6

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Media Day, Go Orange Day and other fundraising events for the wellbeing fund such as pizza sales and a festive jumper day in December.

There are six classes in TY and each class was in charge of one of these events. In TY we also take wellbeing as a subject and in this class we do different things such as writing positive comments about other people in our classes and writing them on a body cut out which we can hang somewhere at home. We also organise the fundraising events in those classes. We have two new murals which were put up this year one which says ‘We are a Community’ and one that says “This is a safe school”. These are hung up in our main assembly area so everyone can see.

They were put up to celebrate our first Diversity Week to show our school community that we are

a school where we strive to be a place that is safe and welcoming for all members of our school community.

Our library is in the process of being done up

by TY students and staff added bean bags and a couch into the library to make a nicer space for students to read and relax in.

Twenty five staff members in our school are wellbeing mentors and they have colourful jumpers which they wear to support the wellbeing of our students. They are assigned to different year groups and are also tasked with organising a wellbeing event for the year group they are assigned to.

We hope to show that Wellbeing is embedded into our school community and is part of our ethos.

Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Local News

Courses in Donabate Donabate Presbyterian Library in February Church meets every Sunday

Where?

Donabate & Portrane Community Centre When?

Every Sunday, 10:30 am – 11:30 am What?

An hour long church-family gathering

Handyman Service Need Mirrors / Shelves / Curtain Poles hung? Or help with that flatpack?

Beginners Computers Classes for Older People

will begin on Tuesday 6th February, to run for 4 weeks on each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 2.30 – 4.30pm, ending on Thursday 1st March.

Attendance at every class is required.

Places are limited – please book by calling 01 8905609 or by emailing Donabate.library@fingal.ie.

Children’s Internet Safety and Cyberbullying talk for parents/guardians supported by Barnardos Monday 5th of

February @6:30pm, The workshops for parents/guardians on the topic of their children’s internet safety and cyberbullying, including time for questions, and it offers parents an opportunity to consider how they can increase their child’s online safety and what to do if they suspect their child is experiencing cyber-bullying.

Parents are encouraged to focus on how they can monitor their child’s use and online behaviour. Parents are provided with take home information that offers up to date information in relation to the apps their child may be using and associated safety considerations.

All are welcome, but if you wish to attend, please register your interest by calling 01 8905609 or by emailing Donabate.library@ fingal.ie. This will help us to gauge the number of expected attendees, and to provide adequate seating on the evening.

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Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

DONABATE LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2018

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Local News

Donabate Library Events for February 2018 Contact us at 01-8905609 Email: donabate.library@fingal.ie

Ranganna Ríomhaireachta do Dhaoine Scothaosta / Beginners Computers Classes for Older People will begin on Tuesday 6th February, to run for 4 weeks on each Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 2.30 – 4.30pm, ending on Thursday 1st March.

Attendance at every class is required.

Places are limited – please book by calling 01 8905609 or by emailing Donabate.library@fingal.ie.

Leanaí Sábháilteacht Idirlín / Children’s Internet Safety and Cyberbullying talk for parents/guardians support by Barnardos takes place on Monday 5th of February @6:30pm, The workshops for parents/guardians on the topic of their children’s internet safety and cyberbullying, including time for questions and offer parents an opportunity to consider how they can increase their child’s online safety and what to do if they suspect their child is experiencing cyber-bullying. Parents are encouraged to focus on how they can monitor their child’s use and online behaviour. Parents are provided with take home information that offers up to date information in relation to the apps their child may be using and associated safety considerations.

All are welcome.

Ionad Oibrithe Deonacha Fhine Gall / Fingal Volunteer Centre will have an information stand in the library on Monday 19th

February from 6.00 – 7.30pm. Thinking of volunteering? Fingal Volunteer Centre is your starting point!

Buailpháistí Leanaí / Bully-Proof Kids: Practical tools to help your child grow up confident resilient and strong with psychotherapist Stella O’ Malley takes place on Monday 19th of

This talk is targeted at dog owners, Parents and Grand Parents of Primary School Children. It gives advice on why dogs bite, signs dogs exhibit to show they are stressed and other useful tips and hints on how to be keep our children safe around dogs. It is not just for families who have dogs of their own, as every child will come into contact with dogs at some stage, whether in another house, or out and about in the community.

Places are limited – please book by calling 01 8905609 or by emailing Donabate.library@fingal.ie

Grúpa Tuismitheoir agus Páistí/ The Parent & Toddler Group meet every Tuesday morning at 10.30am. Drop in and meet with

other parents & toddlers.

Na Ceardaíochta Ciorcal / The Crafting Circle meets every Thursday in the library at 11.00am - everyone is welcome to join - just bring along whatever craft you are working on!

Grúpa Scríbhneoireacht Chruthaitheach /The Adult Creative Writing Group meets every second Saturday in the Library at 11.00am.

Club Leabhar na Leanbhai / The Toddler Book Club takes place on Wednesday 20th February at 11.30am. All are welcome to attend with babies and toddlers for stories and music.

February @6:30pm.

We can’t always be there to protect our kids as they make their way in the world. What we can do is equip them with the tools they need to ensure they have a positive social experience. Based on many years’ experience counselling bullies and targets, Stella O’Malley offers concrete strategies to empower children and teenagers to deal confidently with bullying and dominant characters. She identifies effective ways for families to cope when bullying occurs, including approaching the school authorities, communicating with the bully’s parents and tips to tackle cyberbullying.

Stella’s common-sense approach will help your child, tween or teen to develop their emotional intelligence and will provide relief for families navigating the rapidly changing social environment, both online and in school.

All are welcome.

Bricks do Leanaí Ceardlann Lego / Bricks4Kidz Lego Workshop for ages 8 – 11 years, takes place on Saturday 24th February,

from 2.30 – 4.30 pm.

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This workshop involves a learning experience, followed by a building challenge, and then children are encouraged to apply their creativity through playing. Programmes are built around Lego proprietary model plans, designed by engineers and architects, with exciting themes such as space, construction, and amusement parks.

Places are limited – please book by calling 01 8905609 or by emailing Donabate.library@fingal.ie.

Pléadh Iontaobhas Madraí do Dhaoine Fásta / Dogs’ Trust Talk for Adults takes place on Tuesday 27th February from 10.30 am –

11.30 am.

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Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

St Valentine’s relics are in Dublin

Lena Vemealone

Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Hidden away in a beautiful church with a drab, grey exterior in the heart of Dublin are the remains of Valentinus, (St Valentine) patron saint of love. As you pass through the main entrance of the Whitefriar Street Carmelite Church, on the right hand side lies The Shrine to St Valentine. The statue above the casket, of St. Valentine dressed in red, was carved in the 1960s

by Dublin sculptor Irene Broe (1923 - 1992), who also carved the statue of St. Clare in the Church of St. Adam and Eve, Dublin.

In the mid 19th century, Irish Carmelite Father John Spratt was gaining much admiration in the Church for his work among the poor and less fortunate people of Dublin.

Between December 1835 and April 1836, Fr. Pratt visited Rome, for both health and business reasons.

During his stay he was invited to preach in the principal church of the Jesuits, as a guest of Cardinal Weld. Weld was Pope Gregory XVI’s adviser on affairs in Ireland and England.

The Pope was so taken with Fr. Pratt’s oration that he sent him a token of his esteem -- the remains of Saint Valentine.

On the morning of November 10, 1836, the remains arrived in Dublin in a container for relics, known as a reliquary. They were received at Whitefriar street by Archbishop Murray of Dublin, who said a special High Mass, at which Fr. Spratt preached.

The reliquary came with a letter from the Pope, outlining its contents. The outer casket, which has only been opened a few times, houses a container.

Inside the container is a small wooden box, covered in painted paper, tied with a red silk ribbon and sealed with wax seals. This box has never been opened.

According to the papal letter that came with the reliquary, the inner box contains: ... “the blessed body of St Valentine, martyr, which we ourselves by the command of the most Holy Father Pope Gregory XVI on the 27th day of December 1835, have taken out of the cemetery of St Hippolytus in the Tibur tine Way, together with a small vessel tinged with his blood”. “The blessed body” is believed to refer to the remains -- presumably some bones -- of St Valentine.

On Valentine’s Day each year, the reliquary is placed on the main altar for a special mass.

However, this is also the busiest day of the year to visit the church. Please be respectful. If you notice that mass is ongoing, and you don’t want to partake, wait until it is finished before visiting the relic. Mass usually lasts an hour or so.

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Lena Vemealone

By Fashion Editor - Carina Cunningham

Dress to impress on your Valentine’s date As we approach Valentine’s Day this 14th of February 2018, how does it make you feel? If you’re not a fashion addict like myself, that’s okay. Maybe you have your own style. It certainly doesn’t have to be magazine current trends. You match your look to suit your personality. And inner happiness really is the answer. There are no rules. You are individual. And cool to quirky is all okay!

The Girls.

For the girls, what we all love is any reason to glam up; get the hair done, makeup, lippy (as in lipstick, not liposuction... although if that was on offer I would be the first in the queue), shellac nails, stockings, stilettos, over the knee boots.. the lot!

Looking good really does make you feel good.

And if you feel bad about your image, don’t despair please. Very little changes, one by one, really help with self- confidence building. I will be working and helping you all in the future as Fashion Editor to look and feel happy, when you just follow my monthly articles.

For some inspiration, this month’s fashion shoot is all about love. We have the runner up of Top Model Ireland, Oana Covasa who is wearing the most stunning Audrey Hepburn black lace dress with red underskirt. Truly romantic, with a vintage twist. Colours are so important, as this is the one day of the year that you really can impress your lover/ partner and look like a vogue model.

Our photoshoot is here to inspire you all to get into action. It’s been a long cold winter, but spring is on the way. Dress up! Get rid of the chunky jumper, and fleecy tracksuits that we have all been hibernating in. And bag them or bin them or donate to your favourite charity ASAP. Every January, I try to reinvent my look, following the festive season, as I look forward to a New Year, you should too.

The Guys.

Somehow I feel the balance for the guys is a little bit unfair. It’s so quick and instant for the boys. You’re talking the slick hair, the trendy treads, the facial grooming and now luckily ladies 10

DONABATE LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2018

some guys do body grooming! A bit of deodorant and aftershave and they are finished. Gents please don’t be upstaged by your supermodel girlfriend.

Guys come on and put a bit of thought on

coordinating your appearance! You also need to dress to impress. Your lady or your partner will really appreciate this effort however small or big that is.

Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

The Date So where are you going on your Valentine’s date?

Here are some ideas for your romantic evening.

Eating out romantically is always a winner and there are some fantastic restaurants in the Fingal area.

So, book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment as demand will be great.

A good music gig in any of the great local venues puts anyone in a happy mood and is a very acceptable and fun way to get close to your lover/partner.

The movies is still a great date, once the film is agreed upon before.

Or simply stay at home. A romantic homemade meal and Netflix and chill!

Alternatively, you can cuddle up and listen to the music you used to listen to when you first met. Music is such an inexpensive way to change your moods, no doubt it can change you instantly just after listening to a few songs.

The Gifts Of course gifts for Valentine’s Day can range from as little as a red rose, to jewellery, perfume, champagne, chocolate and flowers. Oh and do not forget the cards! For the guys it’s nice to get them something funny or interesting. A photo on a mug, underwear, tickets to a gig or sports event, or for the dreaded golf addicts- a lesson or two. However, if you are minted, sure guys always love sport cars!

Gifts are not really essential, but they do help to set the scene however you in close contact is. Hugs, kisses and holding hands are worth more than anything money can buy. If you have lost a little of that, due to demands of your hectic lifestyles, try to reap that back again this Valentine’s Day. Make a change, change is good. Try it, you might just even like yourself more for it. Oh and have a wonderfully romantic Valentine’s Day!

Credits: Styling: Carina Cunningham Photography: Taz Smith Photography Makeup: by Momi Kay Female runner up Top Model Ireland: Oana Covasa Dress: from ‘Coco Belle’, Donabate, Town Centre 0876600268 Male model winner Top Model Ireland: Sebastian Pawlik Jacket and jeans: from ‘Sensational Clothing’ (unisex shop) unit 10, Swords, town centre 0870613590 Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

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Style Warriors show for Cancer Charity

By Fashion Editor - Carina Cunningham Hi readers. I would like to introduce myself to you all. My name is Carina Cunningham and I am the new Fashion Editor of Community Locals Magazines. In the time ahead, I hope to bring you something interesting to look at and read each month.

I am teaming up with well know photographer Taz Smith and wonderful make up artist Momi Kay to get the perfect shots for your enjoyment.

I style and co-ordinate shoots, pick a theme, location, and models then make it all happen with the team assisting me. I design my own clothing vintage gothic burlesque style. However, the articles I will feature here will be clothing from local shops and boutiques.

I also produce my own fashion show -Style Warriors Fashion and Entertainment Show.

This has proved a great success with two very successful shows already and I am currently working in my third. I produce the shows to raise funds for different charities and this year’s show will take place on Saturday 6th October in Wrights Venue, thanks to owner Michael Wright.

This year’s charity of choice to benefit from the show is NECRET (North East Cancer Research and Education Trust). So I will be looking for young girls and guys who would like to try out

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Rebecca Tallon De Havilland

modelling and I will have two casting dates to be confirmed at a later date. Mr Ray Quinn Owner of Bathstore and More Metro Point BusIness Park has kindly sponsored my last two shows and once again is our main sponsor. However, I will also be looking for local businesses to sponsor

Noel Cunningham

some of the production costs. Any young aspiring sponsors or models can contact me on Facebook.

Contact me at carinacunningham@gmail.com.

NECRET are delighted with the opportunity to fundraise and said, “We in NECRET would like to thank Carina Cunningham for kindly offering to run this show as a fundraising event for our cause. Thanks you also to the show’s co-hosts Noel Cunningham and Rebecca Tallon De Havilland who along with photographer Taz Smith have offered their services without charge.

And finally a Message from Noel Cunningham:.. “ I am so excited to be part of Style Warriors … What to wear! A huge amount of work goes into this massive amazing production spearheaded by the wonderful Carina Cunningham … and several most gifted talented individuals. I am also delighted that cancer … a cause close to me heart will benefit through NECRET .. a greatorganisation doing fabulous work. Roll on October … now I must call Claire Garvey ..because the style will be amazing and I need to be noticed !!

That’s it for now. Next month I will be adding to this information as the show progresses. in the meantime thanks for your time. Carina Cunningham –Cherie Styling Studio.

Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Valentines Day in the USA

Most people agree that North Americans tend to do things bigger and better than other countries and Valentine’s Day is no exception.

Here are some facts that will really astound you.

Just over half of Americans -- 54 percent -- are expected to celebrate the holiday this year. Total spending for the holiday in the USA is expected to top $18.2 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. That’s an average of $136.57 per person.

Jewellery is the most popular Valentine’s Day gift in the US: 20 percent of consumers are

expected to buy jewellery, spending a total of $4.3 billion.

Lovers are also expected to spend $2 billion on flowers. The most popular Valentine’s Day flowers are, naturally, roses; 250 million roses are produced for the holiday, according to the Society of American Florists.

However, Valentines Day cards are still a very popular form of showing your love if you’re an American and couples will exchange 190 million greeting cards during Valentine’s Day, spending $1 billion on cards, according to the Greeting

Card Association.

6 million -- The number of people who expect or are planning a marriage proposal $4.52 -- The average amount pet owners spent on their pets on Valentine’s Day in 2012.

Add to those these percentages of the overall population of the USA. 40.7% -- The percentage of people who will use their Smartphone to purchase Valentine’s gifts.

29% -- The percentage of people who will type a romantic text message.

Valentines Day Poems Roses are red, Violets are blue Sugar is sweet, and so are you!

Happy Valentine’s day xx --My love is like a cabbage Divided into two The leaves I give to others but The heart I give to you Happy Valentine’s Day xx --If apples were pears and peaches were plums And the rose had a different name If tigers were bears and fingers were thumbs

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I’d love you just the same.

Happy Valentine’s Day xx --Love Hearts and Candy Can never be as sweet as my love for you Happy Valentine’s day xx --Loved you yesterday, love you still, Always did and always will Happy Valentine’s day xx --Daisies are Yellow Violets are blue

Cookies are sweet And so are you Happy Valentine’s Day xx --You’re the sun in my morning, the moon in my night And everything about you feels just right You’re the reason I hurry home at the end of the day A love that is strong and always true And I will forever and always love you

Happy Valentine’s day xx Your kiss makes me linger, Your smile makes me sing I love you forever Whatever life brings Happy Valentine’s day xx --You’re the stars in the sky And the reason the cow jumped over the moon When you are near I smile and I coo That is why I truly love you Happy Valentine’s Day xx

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Local News

Adam reaches half century Adam Butler started doing the Rush junior parkrun in July 2016 and achieved the 50 mark on the 31st December. Junior park runs are held on Sunday mornings at 9.30am and are for juniors aged from 4 to 14 years. We are very lucky in Fingal to have excellent Junior park runs in Rush, Balbriggan and a new one that started in Holywell (Swords) just before Christmas.

Park runs are a social event as well as a great way to keep fit. All are welcome, every Saturday morning at 9.30am. Parkrun organise free, weekly, 5km timed runs all around the world and in north County Dublin we are lucky to have River Valley (Swords), Newbridge House (Donabate), Malahide Castle and Ardgillan Castle. They are free, open to everyone and are safe and easy to take part in. Runners, walkers and volunteers are welcome to join the parkrun family. Register for free, print out your bar-code and you are good to go!

Adam has completed all 3 on his quest to get to 50 and I would strongly recommend junior parkruns to all. As hard as it can be to get up some Sunday mornings, it is really great to see young children out with their families, running or walking the two kilometres, it really is fantastic and a great start hopefully to a lifetime of keeping fit and taking exercise for many young children.

Any interest in a book/film club?

Any interest in a book/film club?

Donabate Library would just like to gauge interest among our public as regards the library hosting a book club or a film club, constituted of members of the local public.

As regards a proposed book club, we would envisage a club that would meet once a month, probably on a weekday, during the daytime. The library would be able to source the required copies of the book for the members, and for

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the first few meetings, a staff member would be able to sit in and guide the discussion, until the group was confident and comfortable enough to continue on their own.

As regards a film club, the library has a Quiet Room, which can comfortably hold 8 - 9 people, containing a screen, where, if desired, a film can be viewed. As with the book club, the library could source dvd copies of the film for the club members, and the library could host

their regular meetings for discussion of the films.

Again, for the first few meetings, a staff member would be able to sit in and guide the discussion, until the group was confident and comfortable enough to continue on their own.

If you feel you would be interested in being part of a book or a film club, please let me know by emailing alan.dunne@fingal.ie, and if there is sufficient interest, we will get back in touch, and get the ball rolling.

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Local News

How to avoid a potential tax liability for unmarried couples Considering that the 2016 Census showed that there are over 152,000 cohabiting, unmarried couples in Ireland, it’s worth making sure that any cover is set up correctly to avoid potentially large tax liabilities. Let’s take “John” & “Mary” who live together but are not married. If they have a life policy that covers both of them for €300,000, in the event of a claim, depending on how the premiums were paid, there could be a sizeable tax liability.

If John passes away and the premiums were paid from a joint account that both contributed to, then Mary is deemed to have inherited 50% of the proceeds (€150,000). Not being married, she is only entitled to the “Stranger’s” tax-free threshold of €16,250, so she is liable to pay tax on the balance (€133,750 x 33% = €44,137.50 tax bill!) If John paid the premiums, Mary is deemed to have inherited all of the proceeds, leaving her with a tax bill of €93,637.50. If Mary paid all of the premiums herself, then there is no tax liability.

It is important that couples in this situation set up their cover accordingly, by doing 2 x “life of another” plans. This way, each pays for the cover on their partner and then there would not be a tax liability in the event of a claim. This can often be done at no more cost than they pay for a joint plan.

Taking a few minutes to review what you have in place for something as important as this can make a huge difference. If you have friends or family that this may apply to, make a suggestion for them to read this to see if there is anything that needs adjusting.

For similar information regarding joint ownership of a house, read the “Unfair tax treatment of Cohabiting Couples” blog on www. financialcompanion.ie Dave Kavanagh QFA from Financialcompanion.ie has been a Financial Advisor for over 20 years (and a Gym Instructor/Nutrition Advisor before that!) He has done advice slots on on RTE 2FM and on TV3 and does the “Ask the Expert” Financial Advice section on Mumstown.ie.

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Local Sports

Portrane Athletic Christmas Day swim

Portrane Athletic FC organised a highly successful charity ‘Baltic Dip’ on Christmas Day. The proceeds went towards the “Donabate Portrane Educate Together school Autism unit”. In total the hardy souls who braved the icy sea raised €2,465.00. Well done to the lads, ladies and children who took the dip!

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Local Sports

Donabate-Portrane Tennis Club receives Silver Clubmark

Congratulations to Donabate-Portrane Tennis Club for achieving the Tennis Ireland Silver Clubmark Accreditation.

The club is less than two years old and was also successful in their Sports Capital Grant Application allowing them to secure €144,000 which will be used to develop a further two courts.The club’s committee staged a highly impressive presentation of their Tennis Ireland Clubmark application which was described by Tennis Ireland and Fingal County Council Regional Development Officer Tara Congdon as, “ delivered in style and wrapped in a spirit of passion, pride and people power. The creation of a club, tenderly nurtured by an ambitious and dedicated group of people. DonabatePortrane Tennis Club has showcased a decidedly accomplished level of achievement and prosperity in all aspects of club development. It is a proud moment for all in the club and community to see such progress and rightly recognised through the Tennis Ireland Silver Clubmark.”

They now join Celbridge and Portmarnock as the third Leinster Club to achieve the Tennis Ireland Clubmark Status and the fifth club in the Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Republic.

Also congratulating the club, Principal Sports Officer for Fingal County Council, Marion Brown said: “This is a tremendous achievement for the club. It is a testament to their dedication and hard work over such a short period of time.

IT proves what can be done when a small group of people who are dedicated in achieving their goals as well as surpassing them to achieve excellence in the club.”

The club has four all weather floodlit courts located on the stunning landscaped grounds of Donabate Golf Club with the full use of the clubhouse facilities for their vibrant and active members.

There are a wide range of activities available from Social Tennis, Coaching for Adults and Juniors, Camps, Club Competitions and Organised Play, League tennis and much more.

A full Calendar of Events can be viewed on their website. http://donabatetennis.com/ Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid said: “I’m delighted to see that this recreational space is being recognised with a Silver Clubmark accreditation as well as receiving funds

to develop its existing facilities. The presence of sports clubs like the Donabate-Portrane Tennis club creates a space for communities to meet and engage while allowing them to pursue a hobby and develop a skill.”

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley also offered her congratulations: “This is a fantastic achievement for a club that has been operating for just two years. The addition of this accreditation and the Sports Capital Grant funding will allow the club to continue with the development of what is an extremely valuable facility to residents in the Donabate-Portrane area.”

Photo caption: Tennis Ireland Fingal Regional Development Officer Tara Congdon and Club Development Convener Leinster Tennis Eugene Bergin presenting the award to the club Chairperson Robbie Harold and Honorary Secretary Anna Kiernan, along with the club’s committee members and head coach Hugh O’Loughlin.

(More on Tennis Ireland Clubmark here: https://www.tennisireland.ie/clubs/tennis-irelandclubmark/)

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Crossword & Sudoku

Across

Down

1. Very enthusiastic and dedicated.

(4,2) 5. An old story about mythical events. (6) 10. There’s no time like it. (7) 11. The place to go for a play. (7) 12. Abruptly terminated. (4) 13. The path of the Earth around the Sun. (5) 15. An examination conducted by word of mouth. (4) 17. A large body of salt water. (3) 19. A period of instruction. (6) 21. Commonly combined with fever, canary and belly. (6) 22. Obscured by protection. (7) 23. A line that suspends the harness from the canopy of a parachute. (6) 25. Salvation Army magazine and slogan used to rally support for a cause. (3,3) 28. Be of service, help. (3) 30. Cut the herd in size to remove the sick animals. (4) 31. Place in a grave, a short exam. (5) 32. Object used on the set of a play.

(4) 35. An inscription on a tombstone in memory of the person buried. (7) 36. A device that displays words for people to read. (7) 37. Expression used for shock, dismay, sympathy, etc. (2,4) 38. Large birds of prey. (6)

2. Not helpful at all. (7) 3. The natural colour of aged hair. (4) 4. Freshwater carnivorous mammals.

(6) 5. Baltic Republic, capital is Riga. (6) 6. A narrow secluded valley. (4) 7. Not artificial or imitation. (7) 8. Sit or lie with one’s limbs spread out. (6) 9. Either of a pair; a mate. (6) 14. A performance to raise money for a charitable cause. (7) 16. Bring camera image into sharp detail. (5) 18. Metal piece to mark distinguished service. (5) 20. Lower and raise the head to indicate agreement. (3) 21. Wood used for archery bows. (3) 23. Information that is not to be passed on. (6) 24. He’s said to have planted the first potatoes in Ireland. (7) 26. A small rounded boat made of hides stretched over a wicker frame.

(7) 27. Expression of exuberant delight or triumph. (6) 28. Ship stopper. (6) 29. A formal discussion in a public meeting. (6) 33. Ornamental mineral, often green.

(4) 34. Boys night out with a male deer.

(4)

CROSWORD ANSWERS

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SUDOKU ANSWERS

Across: 1. Gung ho, 5. Legend, 10. Present, 11. Theatre, 12. Axed, 13. Orbit, 15. Oral, 17. Sea, 19. Lesson, 21. Yellow, 22. Covered, 23. Shroud, 25. War cry, 28. Aid, 30. Cull, 31. Inter, 32. Prop, 35.

Epitaph, 36. Autocue, 37. Oh dear, 38. Eagles.

Down: 2. Useless, 3. Grey, 4. Otters, 5. Latvia, 6. Glen, 7.

Natural, 8. Sprawl, 9. Fellow, 14. Benefit, 16. Focus, 18. Medal, 20. Nod, 21. Yew, 23. Secret, 24. Raleigh, 26. Coracle, 27. Yippee, 28. Anchor, 29. Debate, 33. Jade, 34. Stag.

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Healt

hy

Ingredients • 200g ground almonds (Could also use almonds and blitz up finely in a powerful blender/ bullet) • 30 dates soaked in 2 tablespoons water overnight • 2 eggs • 100g dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) • 100g raspberries (fresh or frozen) Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

Home Cook Recipes

Method

Sweetheart Torte

What better way to show someone how much you appreciate them than by making and in this case baking for them! This delicious decadent and rich torte has a nice health twist with no refined sugar and instead gets a natural sweetness from the raspberries and dates. Dark chocolate, almonds and eggs are also nutritious ingredients and it is so simples to create so even if you say you can’t bake, give this recipe a go and you’re putting in spoonfuls more effort than if you bought one!

“It doesn’t have to be a romantic partner that you make the effort for; a parent, sibling, grandparent or friend would all delight in receiving something thoughtful like this. It makes 8 slices and stores for up to 1 week in an airtight container or can be frozen so savour it!

And: “Workplace Well-being week is coming up in April and having a nutrition talk/workshop is an ideal way to mark the week and learn something that can benefit you and your families health and help you to achieve a healthy work-life balance 1. Preheat oven to 180’c and line an 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or use a Tupperware mould for the oven.

A heart shape mould/pan would be ideal, otherwise you can just cut the heart shape after the torte is baked.

2. Blitz up the dates in a blender/bullet.

3. Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl and add the almonds and dates.

4. Melt dark chocolate and add to the other ingredients in the mixing bowl. Mix together.

5. Add the raspberries to the mixture and gently fold the mixture over itself so that the raspberries are spread throughout.

6. Pour the mixture into a pre-lined baking tray/mould and place in oven at 180’c for 25 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 160’c for another 10 minutes (total baking time in oven is 35 minutes).

7. Allow the torte to cool and cut into a heart shape using a sharp knife. The texture will be soft and moist inside and it will look quite dark due to the dark chocolate and dates. Perhaps crush and sprinkle some frozen raspberries over the top to brighten it up....after all red is the colour of love!

Workplace Well-being week is coming up next month in March and having a nutrition talk/workshop is an ideal way to mark the week and learn something that can benefit you and your families health and help you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. For information on the talks and workshops that I provide, please contact me: niamh@biabites.net and follow me on Twitter/Facebook: Biabites

Happy Valentine’s Day! DONABATE LOCAL-FEBRUARY 2018

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