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It’s hard to believe that we are at the end of another summer season, and thankfully we have had plenty to be happy about when it comes to the weather this year! We have been very lucky over the past three months to have had so many wonderful events and festivals to attend throughout the county. There was something to do for all ages and all of it taking place on our doorsteps.

We now are looking to Autumn, and it is the season that aways has something in store, and more times than not we are treated to some decent weather! It’s the season where everything jumps back into life after a well-earned break and let’s face it, it’s good to get into the swing of things again.

School is back, and so are the early mornings of school runs and the daily commute, and while it can take some time getting used to the routine, we in Fingal are at a significantly higher advantage of having fantastic transport services and routes on our doorsteps that can relieve a lot of that stress.

There’s never a better time of year to get try something new with so many local sporting clubs and social groups reopening after the Summer and once again, we are spoilt for choice in what is on offer right on our doorstep. We once again have the vast number of local people who volunteer to ensure that these services are available to us.

We love seeing more for us to do in our communities and are always looking for something new and exciting; just remember there would hardly be anything to do without these voluntary organisations and their volunteers. There is always room for more people to get involved with their local voluntary organisations and the help is always appreciated.

The Locals Team

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Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition

Additional Schools must be prioritised in Donabate – Cllr Johnston

Labour Party’s Duncan Smith TD and Cllr Corina Johnston are calling for the provision of additional schools to be prioritised in Donabate.

In a recent response to a Parliamentary Question raised by Deputy Smith, the Minister for Education confirmed that 132 Primary School Children from the Donabate peninsula travelled to primary school outside the area in the 2023/2024 academic year with 339 Secondary School children travelling to schools outside the area during the same period.

Deputy Smith said; “over the last 18 months my office has received an increased number of calls from parents of school going children who were unsuccessful in securing a primary school place in Donabate. While some parents choose to send their children to the schools of their choice outside of their area it is obvious from the many parents that have contacted myself and Cllr Corina Johnston that many primary school children from Donabate have to travel to Swords, Lusk and elsewhere to go to school. This is completely unacceptable especially

given the level of planned development in the area.”

Johnston said: “I have been contacted by many parents of school going children who have recently moved to Donabate who were unsuccessful in securing a school place for their children locally. In some cases families with a number of children were able to secure places for some of their children locally with others having to travel outside of the area. This is a logistical nightmare for parents and causing huge stress for many families.”

Johnston added: “The Donabate Local Area Plan provides for almost 4000 additional housing units with planning permission for 90% already granted with many homes under construction. The Plan also includes the provision of 4 designated school sites in Donabate, 3 primary and 1 secondary, however it seems the provision of the much needed schools is years away. The Area Plan was adopted by FCC and then elected representatives in 2016 with no progress on the provision of permanent schools since then.”

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Commnuity News

Active Age for All Fun Croquet Day in Newbridge Park

On the 16th July Active Age for All ran their annual fun croquet day in Newbridge Park and were joined by members of Newbridge House Croquet Club and Mens Shed.

We are very fortunate to play in beautiful surroundings on the ground of Cyril Corbally the reknowned prewar international croquet champion, one of the ‘Irish Terrors’. The Irish Terrors were a group of skilled players from Ireland who dominated the sport in the early 20th century. They were known for their innovative playing styles and flamboyant personalities which

brought a new level of excitement to the game. Cyril established the lawn in Newbridge House in the early 1920s and the estate became a hub for competitive play.

However the theme for our day was FUN which was had by all with some competitive play plus games such as the wobbly ball and shoot the hoop. To finish we had a thrilling play-off between three teams of two that had fought off all previous challengers. Congratulations to Paula and Rosaleen the winners and well done to runners up Mary and Noel in second place and

Ger and Oliver in third.

The day had started fine and warm but the breeze grew a lot cooler as the day progressed which had everyone going for coats and sweaters begged or borrowed. This did not manage to spoil the fun or cool the enthusiasm and everyone enjoyed the day. Many thanks to all who helped out, especially Bernie, and all who brought donations of all sorts to the day. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the FCC grounds staff who keep the lawns in such magnificent condition.

Know Exactly What You Pay For

By Dave Kavanagh

During recent claims I have processed for clients (death claims, serious illness claims and income protection claims) there was something that they all had in common. None of them knew what cover they actually had in place. Some were unsure whether there was sufficient cover in place to clear their mortgage (which is often the case. Consider all of the people that took 6 months’ payment breaks during Covid. Their mortgage protection cover continued to reduce while their mortgage balances slightly increased.) Some thought they had serious illness cover because we had discussed it a couple of years back, but they never actually got around to commencing it. It was yet another reminder that most people do not know the important details of plans that they pay regularly for. As people’s circumstances change, it’s important to be up to date with knowing what you are actually paying for. Here is the very least that you should know about any protection plans that you have in place:

Life Cover: How much cover is there? When does it expire? Is it dual or joint? Does it have a conversion option? Is it level, increasing or decreasing? How much does it cost?

Income Protection: What is the deferred period? (The length of time you have to be off work due to illness or injury before payments

commence). What level of cover do I have? Up to what age will payments continue if I could never return to work again? How much does it cost? Have I claimed my tax relief? (I.P. premiums are tax deductible).

Serious Illness Cover: A.K.A. Critical Illness Cover or Specified Illness Cover. What level of cover do I have? Is it stand alone or accelerated cover? Is it dual or joint? When does it expire? Do I have the option to extend cover without further medical evidence? If you don’t know those details, it’s time to get out the paperwork and find out. You’ll be glad you did.

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

F1 (2025) — A Heart Fuelled Underdog Story

By Jack Shanley

Joseph Kosinski’s F1, delivers a visceral journey steeped in adrenaline, emotion, and cinematic grandeur. With a screenplay by Ehren Kruger and a soaring score cocomposed by Hans Zimmer, the film revs up into one of the most ambitious crossovers between Hollywood and the hyper-technical world of Formula 1 racing. ‘F1’ is not just a movie about a sport; it’s an immersive sprint through the adrenaline-soaked nerves of modern racing. This film understands that Formula 1 is as much about psychology, strategy, and sibling-like rivalries as it is about horsepower.

At its core, ‘F1’ is a familiar yet effective underdog story, a legendary driver returns from a decades long absence to save a struggling fictional team, APXGP, and find redemption behind the wheel. While the storyline has been pretty much done before, Pitt and Idris bring a strong chemistry and emotional dept that keep the journey engaging, even if it’s somewhat predictable at times.

Visually, the film is fantastic. Filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends with real-world teams, drivers, and circuits, the racing sequences strike a rare balance between spectacle and realism. The

cinematography immerses you in every gear shift and tire squeal, while Hans Zimmer’s hybrid orchestral-electronic score underscores both the human drama and the mechanical fury of ‘F1’. It’s a real striking piece of modern sport filmmaking, that even without being an ‘F1’ fan or having any knowledge of the sport, you’ll still be vastly entertained.

That said, the film isn’t without its flaws. Some may argue that certain race moments bend realism, with unrealistic manoeuvres and overly convenient engineering breakthroughs. While general audiences often find it exhilarating, the plot’s sentimen-tality and paralleled character arcs may feel monotonous. ‘F1’ compensates with a rejuvenated sense of optimism: a belief that teamwork can outpace ego. Still, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with the film breaking box office records for Apple Studios.

I’d recommend checking out ‘F1’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of THREE stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today: Director: Joseph Kosinski–Rating: PG – Genre: Sport/Action – Run Time: 2h 35m Language: English. For more film content please follow @ movies4fanatics on Instagram.

NEW Farmers Market on Green at Parish Church

In August, Farmers Markets ran for some Saturdays these will now continue into September - check poster for the dates. It is a perfect central outdoor location for this type of market with a variety of products on sale. … Stands have a combination of artisan food producers from Fingal Food Circle, organic & local fresh producers … There will also be some eg hand crafts and trucks for refreshments on site. An initiative by Fingal County Council brought the Farmers Market to the grounds of the Parish Church in

Donabate. Please support this your Local Farmers Market. The Parish Hall will be in full swing again - with a variety of classes, activities & events taking place - Irish Dancing & Music, Bridge, Senior Citizens, Drama, Creche, Youth Groups and Political Clinics! There are still some limited slots available to rent a space - so if you or your organisation need a place to be - please give the Parish Office a call on 01 8434574as soon as possible.

Time for some self-care Mammies

And breathe…the kids are back in school and parents can enjoy a little space as we settle back into a regular routine. If you’ve been a busy Mammy, rushed off your feet getting ready for school, try to carve out a little ‘me time’ now. Fabulous West Cork company Be Cosy has gorgeous goodies to indulge in a little self-care this Autumn. Hot chocolate, snuggly slippers, thick wool socks and calming incense sticks are our favourites. Glimmerboxes has added to their range with some beautiful new boxes, including the Hot Mess and Gamer boxes, perfect for a little self-indulgence. For busy mornings, Irish brand GuGo has comfy, easy to wear clothing, perfect for the school run. I love the Peach and Green sweatshirts, perfect for dopamine dressing. Pair with their comfy leggings (I love the Navy ones) and finish with a baseball cap to cover the hair you haven’t had time to style and you’re ready to go! Check them out at https://gugo.ie/ and sign up to their newsletter for 10% off your first order.

The build up to September can be full on and as the weather turns cooler,

colds and bugs start swirling around. It’s a good idea to invest in some decent vitamins and mineral supplements to give your health a boost. Sentro Labs is an Irish company with a range of immune supports for good health and gut performance, as well as supplements to aid sleep and help with perimenopause and men’s health. See https://www.sentrolabs.com/

Even though the weather is getting colder, it is still very important to put SPF on your face. I wear Elave SPF all year round, it moisturises beautifully, is ideal for sensitive skin and goes great under make-up. We are big fans of the Elave ranges, from baby and junior skincare to adult skincare and shaving sets. And they’re an Irish company, which we love.

Even though school is back, there are still lots of fun events at weekends. The National Concert Hall is hosting family concert, Rithmí agus Scéalta –Rhythms and Stories, on Saturday 13th September as well as a host of Mini Music sessions for kids throughout September. Check them out at https:// www.nch.ie/ and keep an eye on mams.ie for NCH competitions!

CommunityLocals.ie

Men’s Shed enjoys trips to Portrane Green, Turvey Allotments and Howth

Last month, there was a happy marriage of two of Donabate Portrane Men’s’ Shed’s interests – music and allotments. Gerry and the Plonkers provided the entertainment at Turvey Allotments Association’s AGM and family bar-b-que on a sunny August Sunday afternoon. This marked the second anniversary of the Plonkers’ debut, which coincidentally was at this same function in 2023.

Despite the frenetic schedule of watering, weeding, feeding and other jobs at the allotments, work there was abandoned for the day by all, not just by Men’s’ Shed’s members, The sun shone, and once the business of the AGM was completed, the bar-b-que was fired up, the music was enjoyed, and

everyone had a great day out. We also have a photo from the Plonkers’ gig at Fingallians’ Memory Café, which took place at the end of July, too late to include a photo in last month’s article.

Our members have made the most of the recent summer weather with an impromptu gathering on Portrane Green for fish ‘n’ chips and Pipers’ and a pitch and putt outing to Deer Park in Howth…and we still found time for our regular Tuesday croquet sessions in Newbridge Park and our weekly Thursday get-togethers in the Sea Scouts’ Den on the Portrane Road.

If you, or someone you know, would like to join us, please contact our PRO, Jim, on 086-3694316.

Shedders on Portrane Green

Shedders at Work at Turvey Allotments

Plonkers at Turvey Allotments

Plonkers at Fingallians Memory Café

By Dr. Carla Lluch, Veterinary Practitioner

Being a Vet: More Than Just a Dream Job

Becoming a vet is a childhood dream for many, but what really happens inside a veterinary clinic?

On Saturday, 6th September, you can find out during our Opening Day!

Our clinic is a team effort, with many people working together to keep your pets healthy.

Here in our Lusk clinic, the first person you’ll meet is Ewa, our wonderful receptionist. She books appointments, answers your questions, and can even advise you on your pet’s diet. She also supports the team behind the scenes, while making sure your wait is as pleasant as possible, especially during difficult moments.

We also have two fantastic nurses: Skye and Rebecca. They prepare patients for surgery, monitor recovery, and are always ready to cuddle a new puppy. They’ll give you great advice to help your pet grow healthy and confident, and they can help with diets or dental care. Vets rely on them for everything, from lab work to anaesthesia.

And then there are the vets: Peter and myself, Carla. You’ll find us in consultations, surgeries, or hospital care (and sometimes joking about hiding in the X-ray room!). We both have years of experience, just look at our grey hairs!

Peter is an outstanding surgeon, operating from nose to tail. Though new to Dublin, clients follow him from Dundalk to Lusk.

I love consultations, talking with owners, involving them in treatment plans, and understanding their personal situations to offer the best options for their pets.

Together, we make a great team, and we’d love to show you what goes on behind the scenes. If you’d like to learn more about our work or the veterinary profession, come visit us on Opening Day!

Facial Rejuvenation Alternatives for Glowing Skin

Facial rejuvenation in acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the face and body. This process aims to improve blood flow, stimulate collagen production, and enhance skin elasticity. The treatment may help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and improve overall skin tone and texture. Sessions often include body acupuncture to address underlying health issues that may affect skin appearance, promoting a holistic balance. Results typically require multiple sessions for noticeable effects.

Facial Massage Cupping is a gentle therapy that uses small suction cups on the face to stimulate the skin and muscles. Facial cupping uses soft silicone or glass cups designed for delicate facial tissue. The gentle suction promotes Qi and increases blood circulation, boosts collagen production, reduces puffiness, and may help improve skin tone and elasticity. This natural technique is often used to achieve a brighter, firmer, and more youthful appearance. Follow the directions on the diagram for facial cupping 3 repetitions of 10 strokes on each area of the diagram. Ensure you do not use too much suction or there is a possibility of bruising.

With Susan

Finish with using a Jade roller to cool the skin. Essential oils can be a great addition to your skincare routine—but only when used properly and diluted with a carrier oil, ( typically 1–2% dilution: about 2 drops to 10 ml of carrier oil for facial use ).

Do a patch test before using any essential oil, especially on sensitive skin.

Here’s a brief guide to essential oils best suited for each skin type:

*Avoid citrus oils before sun exposure. Consult a specialist if pregnant, nursing, or have any medical conditions.*

Important Notes:

Using Essential facial oils 2–3 times per week is recommended for most people to achieve the benefits and avoid overstimulating the skin. Essential oils, when properly diluted with a carrier oil, can be used daily for facial massage if your skin can tolerate it, but many experts suggest starting with 2–3 times weekly and adjusting as needed.

If you choose to massage daily, keep sessions brief (5–10 minutes) and always monitor for irritation.

Skin Type Best Oils Best Carrier Oils

Oily/Acne-Prone: Tea tree, lavender, clary sage, lemongrass, geranium

Jojoba, grape-seed.

Dry: Sandalwood, chamomile, lavender, myrrh, rose, Sweet almond, avocado.

Sensitive: German/Roman chamomile, lavender, rose, helichrysum Calendula, rosehip,

jojoba.

Combination: Geranium, ylang-ylang, frankincense, lavender

Jojoba, grape-seed.

Mature/Aging Frankincense, rose, sandalwood, carrot seed, neroli

Rosehip, evening primrose

Inexpensive Beauty Tea (Morning Glow Recipe)

Morning Tea for Glowing Skin: Turmeric & Ginger Infusion

Starting your day with the right tea can do wonders for your skin. Morning tea for glowing skin is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce blemishes and brighten your complexion naturally.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup hot water

• ½ tsp turmeric powder (or fresh turmeric

• 1-inch ginger, grated

• ½ tsp honey (optional)

• Few drops of lemon juice

Method:

Boil water, add turmeric and ginger, simmer 5–7 minutes, strain, then add honey and lemon juice. Drink each morning for clearer, brighter skin.

Next month’s issue will look at the condition ‘Sinusitis’

In Wellness

Susan www.susangrahamcoaching.com

CommunityLocals.ie

Cupping

Essenital Oils

Carrier Oils

LSA Finishes Summer with a Bang!

Wow, what a summer it’s been for the LSA sports group! The athletes have been super busy, and their hard work really paid off in August. It was a month full of amazing achievements, with everyone giving their best.

One of the biggest highlights was our very own Sinead Farrell. Sinead represented Ireland at the World Youth Skyrunning Championships in Italy! Sinead had to run in the mountains against some of the best young runners from all over the world. It was a huge honour for her and for our whole club to see her compete at such a high level. Sinead has been selected to represent Ireland in the World Junior Championships in Canfranc, France in September.

But Sinead wasn’t the only one having a great month. Anna Gavigan won Silver in the National Discus U23, and also qualified to compete for Ireland in thU23 and an U23’s in Discus too.

The rest of the LSA team was also busy training and racing. Lots of our members were out at local races, like the weekly Parkruns in Newbridge Park, where they pushed themselves to get new personal bests. Whether they were running a short race or getting ready for the Dublin Marathon in the Autumn, everyone was cheering each other on.

The best part about LSA is that it’s a place for everyone. From experienced runners to people just starting out, the team is always there to support each other. With all this energy and success in August, we’re off to a fantastic start for the new season!

Adult membership queries; lambaysportsathletics@gmail.com

Little Athletics & Juvenile Athletics (7-18); lsajuvenilereg@gmail.com

Find us on Instagram lsadonabateportrane

WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!!

This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@ gmail.com before 5pm on September 16. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win €50..Good luck