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The Summer just keeps on getting better in Fingal!
The month of August will see lots of events taking place in Fingal and so far, the weather has been playing ball for the most part! Nevertheless, make sure to pack a bag with all the essential gear to and get out to enjoy your local area. Whether its attending events or visiting the many wonderful sights in Fingal, there is plenty to do before the end of summer.
The Fabulous Rush Festival & Air Show is is back once again and it’s sure not to disappoint with something for all the family being provided. From Friday 1st to Monday 4th August the whole village and wider area will be buzzing with activity, and not to mention, in the sky also!
We are so lucky in Fingal to have so much to do on our doorstep; throughout the towns and villages in the county local people are spoiled for choice when it comes to spending their free time in their respective areas. We don’t have very far to travel to find something to make great memories from. We have some of the most beautiful beaches in the country; the sheer number of public parks, castle grounds and gardens accessible all year round is unrivalled; the community centres, state of the art libraries, music venues, cafés, restaurants, bars, the list goes on and on. There is so much to do in such a short distance.
So, no matter what you are planning for the last few weeks of the summer, be sure to reserve some time to take in all the wonderful amenities on your doorstep, we don’t have to hop on a plane every time we want experience something new.
The Locals Team
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STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition
Ancient Alternatives for Arthritis Sufferers
There is not one person who doesn’t know someone who has suffered from this condition.
Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to dispel the pathogenic factors that are the cause of arthritis, we would be helping revitalise your body’s natural qi and blood circulation which will strengthen the body’s internal resistance. This is achieved through a combination of acupuncture (to unblock meridians and promote circulation), herbal medicine (to address both external pathogens and internal imbalances), and most importantly dietary therapy, this will help prevent inflammation within the joints. Foods that can worsen arthritis symptoms, particularly those that promote inflammation, include eating a lot of red meat, processed meats, fried foods, and foods high in refined sugars and carbohydrates. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can
CommunityLocals.ie With Susan
exacerbate arthritis pain.
Depending on your your medical history and medication you may find making Golden Milk can help, anything the has an ‘ITIS’ ie arthritis, sinusitis and gastroenteritis making and taking this daily may help your condition.
Golden Milk
If possible, please make this on either almond, rice, goats or oat milk.
2 cups of the milk being used.
Gently heat your choice of milk over medium heat. As the milk warms, mix in 1 teaspoon of pure turmeric powder and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, a small shake of ground black pepper and to improve the taster you can add 1 teaspoon of maple syrup. Allow the mixture to simmer gently without reaching boiling point for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and enjoy. This has also been seen to help
insomnia.
This specific approach is always individualised based on the patient’s unique pattern of imbalance and the predominant pathogenic factors.
Please always be advised by your doctor and a fully qualified practitioner when making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Next article will be on Facial Rejuvenation the understanding through beauty therapy and Chinese medicine we will include cupping, facial massage techniques, some basic essential oils, plus a herb tea blend that can also help reduce and invigorate the skin.
If you have any specific concerns or conditions please feel free to email; communitylocalseditor@ gmail.com and I will do my best to answer them.
Film Review: Superman Flies High
By Jack Shanley
With James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman hitting cinemas last month, I couldn’t help but do a review. It isn’t just another superhero movie; it’s a vibrant, heartfelt reintroduction to an icon that feels both fresh and deeply reverent. After years of dark, brooding takes on the Man of Steel, Gunn delivers a much-needed dose of hope for Superman, proving that optimism can be just as compelling as grit.
The film wisely sidesteps a lengthy origin story, instead dropping us into a Metropolis. David Corenswet embodies Clark Kent and Superman with remarkable nuance. His Clark is genuinely endearing, a man grappling with his extraordinary abilities while striving for normality, and his Superman radiates a quiet strength and compassionate heroism that feels authentic and inspiring. Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is a revelation – sharp, witty, and independent, she’s a formidable journalist who holds her own against the larger-than-life figures around her. Their chemistry is palpable, forming the emotional core of the film.
Gunn’s signature blend of humour and heart is evident throughout. The dialogue shines with wit, and there are moments of genuine levity that never undermine the stakes. Yet, when the action kicks in, it’s spectacular. The visual effects are seamless, making Superman’s feats feel weighty and impactful without ever feeling cartoonish. The film’s primary antagonist Lex Luther, played by the brilliant Nicholas Hoult is fantastic. He’s an evil tyrant maniac.
What truly sets Superman apart is its unwavering belief in the character’s ideals. This isn’t a cynical deconstruction; it’s a celebration of what Superman represents: truth, justice, and the American way, reimagined for a modern audience without sacrificing its core principles. Gunn understands that Superman isn’t interesting because of his powers, but because of his humanity. The film explores themes of responsibility, identity, and the power of hope in a way that resonates deeply.
While some might argue the film leans a little too heavily into its earnestness at times, it’s a refreshing change of pace. Superman is a triumphant return for the character, a film that reminds us why he matters, and leaves you with a genuine sense of uplift. It’s a powerful, entertaining, and ultimately hopeful start to a new era for D.C.
I’d recommend checking out ‘Superman’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of FOUR stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today: Director: James Gunn– Rating: 12A – Genre: Action/Sci-fi – Run Time: 2h 9m Language: English. For more film content please follow @ movies4fanatics on Instagram.
Swords Tidy Towns
Article by Ken Duffy
The national Tidy Towns competition judges for 2025 have been and gone, we now wait with bated breath for their awarded points score. Our ambition for this year had only one objective, the retention of our 2024 Gold Medal status.
Our team of dedicated volunteers came out in all kinds of weather over the past year to achieve our objective. It is now a nail-biting waiting game until the results of this year’s judges are published, fingers crossed everyone.
Of course, with all the tension over the past year we had to find a way of releasing it and what better way to do so than to party with your fellow volunteers.
Swords Tidy Towns were invited as guests of honour to the Swords Womenshed Summer Break Party held in St Colmcille’s GAA Club. They pulled out all the stops to make us feel welcome, great food, great music, great moves on the dance floor, great Karaoke singers and great company. A fantastic night was had. Once again, I would like to extend a big thank you to the ladies of Womenshed for a fabulous evening.
Swords Tidy Towns would like to take this opportunity also to thank Paul Barnes from the Events Dept of Fingal County Council for allocating tickets to our group for the Duran Duran concert in Malahide Castle. The tickets were a recognition by FCC of our groups hard work and dedication over the past year, a very enjoyable night it was too, thank you guys very much appreciated.
Remove Stress From Your Financial Planning
By Dave Kavanagh
Everything you eat, wear, live in, travel to or travel in, are all connected to your finances, yet most people don’t take the time to plan them effectively. A couple of reasons for this: If you have a problem that needs a plumber, an electrician or a roofer, you will know about it. If you haven’t reviewed your finances for a while, you may not even be aware that you have a problem. The other reason is that some of the main aspects of financial planning are viewed as “negative”. I mean who wants to spend time considering potential occurrences like the impact of a fatality, or give thought to having sufficient income in your retirement when you haven’t reached 30 yet? This perception of “negative” is often why people subconsciously avoid the topic, often citing “not having enough time” as a reason. The same reason explains why people spend regularly on things like the lotto, believing they can win the jackpot, at odds of 10.7million to 1. The same people’s odds of being diagnosed with one of the specified illnesses covered, is 1 in 4 (before age 65!) yet they say “that’ll never happen to me”. This is a natural desire for something very positive to happen and for something negative not to happen. However, these everyday occurrences will happen whether or not someone has the right planning in place. One hour is 4% of your day. Spending
that much time even once per year can be hugely beneficial. You get the peace of mind that you are up to date with your planning. You get the reassurance that anything you have in place is the most appropriate for your current circumstances. You also get the satisfaction that you are not overpaying for something and are getting the best value. Suddenly, the mystery and uncertainty are removed, along with the stress and anxiety often associated with them. In all my years of doing reviews, I’ve never heard anyone regret taking time to go through their finances, but I’ve heard plenty regret not going through them when something unexpected crops up. Remove “money worries”. Make the time.
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.
Sunday 3rd August
Welcome to the exhilarating annual air display at the Fingal Rush Air display, a truly unique event that brings together aviation enthusiasts from all over. We are thrilled to have some familiar faces returning to the skies over North County Dublin and Fingal. The Rush location, with its breathtaking views, adds to the thrill for both the pilots and the public.
FEATURING
IRISH PARACHUTE CLUB • TEAM RAVEN
RICH GOODWIN • STRIKEMASTER DISPLAY
AEROSUPERBATICS WINGWALKERS • IRISH AIR
UK
CORPS
GERRY HUMPHREYS • EDDIE GOGGINS
IRISH HISTORIC FLIGHT • IRISH COAST GUARD
All aircraft participation at the Fingal Rush Air Show is subject to technical issues, weather conditions, operational commitments, crew availability, and other factors outside the control of the organisers.
By Dr. Carla Lluch, Veterinary
Practitioner
Protecting Pets, Protecting Us
Vaccines are essential in our pets’ lives. They save lives and prevent serious diseases like parvovirus, canine distemper, feline panleukopenia, or rabbit haemorrhagic disease. Thanks to proper vaccination protocols, these illnesses have significantly declined. But does that mean a vaccinated pet is completely immune? Not quite. Viruses are sneaky and can mutate, but vaccinated pets have a much better chance of fighting off disease than those without protection. And what about the rabies vaccine? Isn’t Ireland rabies-free? Yes, it is! That’s why the rabies vaccine isn’t mandatory unless you’re planning a trip with your furry friend. Luckily, being an island gives us a natural barrier and our ferries do a great job
making sure no sneaky stowaways (like rats, foxes, or bats) make it onboard. These strict controls help keep rabies out, but if we’re taking our pets abroad, it’s our job to make sure they’re protected too, so we can all help Ireland stay rabies-free!
And now, the infamous kennel cough! You know, that raspy, smoker’s cough sound your dog makes like he’s had a rough night out? Most pet hotels require this vaccine. But wait… is kennel cough a virus? Nope! It’s actually caused by a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica.
The vaccine won’t guarantee your dog won’t catch it, but it does help a lot. A vaccinated dog might still cough, but far less no sleepless nights
for them… or you.
For cats, catteries will always ask for vaccination against feline leukaemia virus, which weakens their immune system and leaves them vulnerable to other illnesses.
And yes, there is a disease pets can pass to us: leptospirosis, caused by Leptospira bacteria. It’s rare in Ireland, but the bug lives in soil and stagnant water and let’s face it, Ireland is full of both. We may not drink from puddles, but our dogs do! And how many of us let them lick our hands or faces.
Vaccines protect them and us. If in doubt, speak to your vet. We’re here to help!
Cultural Quarter to Showcase
the very best of Fingal
Ten months after construction commenced, the €40m centre-piece of the Swords Cultural Quarter is taking shape and is on schedule to open its doors in 2027.
Culture House Fingal is an innovative initiative by Fingal County Council which will see a library, theatre, gallery, maker space, arts spaces and a café all housed in an iconic building designed by award-winning architects O’Donnell and Twomey.
Located beside Swords Castle in the centre of the North Dublin town, the large 5,683m2 four storey high building is currently being constructed by Duggan Brothers who are also building 36 new homes on Seatown Road across the road from the new Culture House.
Fingal councillors were given a presentation at the June monthly meeting of the Council by County Architect Fionnuala May and Ciarán Ó
Gaora of Zero-G who explained the reasoning behind the decision to create a Culture House for Fingal.
“We want this to be a confident expression of the future, and we are seeing that come to pass,” Ó Gaora told councillors. “This building reflects the history and it reflects the future.”
He said that Fingal was following a European tradition where many cities have a Culture House and added: “They understand that many different activities can exist under the one roof.”
By calling the building Culture House or Áras Cultúir, the Council was indicating that it would be a welcoming and accessible place using a name that could be understood by everybody, he stated.
“Ultimately this is about a meeting house for everyone, that’s how we want to talk about it. It’s an everyday open house, it is not some ivory tower,” said Ó Gaora.
“In Fingal, culture is all around us, every day, everywhere. It’s what’s brings us together. It’s what makes us stand out. Because in Fingal we have a culture of learning and playing. A culture of imagination and wonder. A culture of making and doing, of being and belonging.”
The official launch of Culture House Fingal will take place on Culture Night, Friday, September 19, and will include the latest updates on plans for the new building from the Arts Office and Library Service.
The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “Culture House will be a beacon for everybody in the county. It will provide the community with a state-of-the-art county library and archive, a theatre and a gallery space all under the one roof in the centre in Swords, the county’s capital town.”
Focusing on the positives!
I was 13 when my first period arrived and I panicked as I ran straight to my Mam to tell her something was wrong. She got me the things I needed and settled me on the couch with TLC. The next day, she brought me into town and when we got off the bus at Clerys, I was surpised to see my Nanny and 2 of my aunts there. They enveloped me in hugs and congratulated me on becoming a woman and ‘joining the club’. They said they were there to celebrate me getting my first period, with little gifts and a grown up girls lunch. I had no idea this happened when girls got their first periods and honestly, their positivity and attitide made the whole experience far less daunting than it might have been. It was a wonderful day and I’ve never forgotten it.
It was my Mams clever way to help me feel less nervous and afraid and to turn this milestone into a celebration instead. Since then, she has done the same for my sisters and we have continued the tradition with my own daughters too.
I hope sharing our tradition might inspire some Mammies to create special memories with their own daughters, when the time comes for them.
When it comes to gifts for girls starting ther periods, The First Period Box from Dublin based Glimmer Boxes, is fabulous. It has hot chocolate, face/hair masks, Lil-Lets teen starter pack (best pads and tampons for teens IMO), Glmmer diary, chocolate bars, fluffy socks, sweets and treats. It’s a collection of lovely things – like a hug in a box! We’re giving away a First Period Box on our FB page https://www.facebook.com/mams. ireland
We have lots more competitions and tips on mams.ie at to help with Back to school costs. From My Nametags labels giveaways, to our Ilac SC blog which will help you get most of what you need for Back to school in one place! From colourful Smiggle goodies to The Works stationery to Dunnes Stores and Deaz for uniforms to Regatta for coats. Follow us on mams.ie to keep up to date on all things BTS!
Howth RNLI Water Safety Visit Flavours of Fingal 2025
Members of the RNLI’s Water Safety Team attended Flavours of Fingal 2025 at Newbridge House in Donabate on 5th and 6th July 2025. Volunteers from the charity that saves lives at sea were there to promote water safety and give advice to families and water sports enthusiasts about how best to stay safe while enjoying spending time on the coast. People of all ages visited the RNLI stand to ask for advice and find out how best to respond in the event of an emergency.
The charity celebrated 200 years of its lifesaving work last year, and it is still dedicated to its founding principle of saving lives at sea with its volunteer lifeboat crews based at 46 lifeboat stations around the island of Ireland. Three of those stations are in Dublin at Howth, Dun Laoghaire and Skerries. The RNLI also promotes water safety through its sea safety teams, and education programmes in schools help to raise awareness to children and young adults about how to stay safe when they are at the beach or
participating in water sports activities.
John McKenna, Water Safety Officer with Howth RNLI commented, “It was great to see so many people showing an interest in water safety, there is a greater awareness by the public about the need to be prepared and take precautions when they are heading out to do water sports or spend time at the beach.
It was reassuring that many of the children were aware that if they accidentally fell into water that they should “make like a starfish” – spreading out their arms and legs to float until help could get to them. They were very enthusiastic showing us what they had learned. Hopefully they will pass on the message to their friends and family members too.
Each time we do an event we have people approaching us and telling us of how the RNLI has had a direct impact on them or their families. Sometimes it’s because they’ve been rescued by one of our lifeboat crews, or because some of the water safety advice they received from some
Howth RNLI Water Safety Team were at Flavours of Fingal 2025 advising the public about water safety
of our team has helped them avoid an accident. After about 50 years at sea myself I’m only too aware of the hazards at sea and the importance of the work of lifesaving organisations like the RNLI.
This summer we want beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts to be able to enjoy themselves by the water. We’d encourage people to wear a lifejacket or a buoyancy aid and carry a mobile phone in a water proof case so they can call 112 for help if they have any difficulties. They should also tell family or friends where they are going and when they are expecting to return home. And we do not recommend using inflatables in the sea, they are not designed to be used on open water.”
Anyone who unexpectedly finds themselves in water is urged to follow the RNLI’s Float to Live advice – firstly float on your back, then call for help and communicate your location. Try to stay calm and keep your moral up until the emergency services reach you. More water safety advice is available on www.rnli.org/safety .
Join us for a spectacular Family Fun Day!
A Day Full of Laughter, Games & Great Memories! Date: 23rd August 2025 - Time: 2-5pm - Location: Balheary Swords K67H996. Join us for an unforgettable day with: Exciting Games & Challenges; DIY Crafts & Face Painting; Music, Dancing & Entertainment; Delicious Food & Treats and so much more! Free Entry – All Ages Welcome! Bring the whole family and celebrate our GAA community. Don’t miss out on the fun – mark your calendar & spread the word
Nursery Academy Returns!
We are delighted to announce our new sponsorship of our Nursery program Glenveagh Homes. The ‘Cilles Cubs’ GAA training returns on Saturday August 30th at St Colmcille’s, Balheary, Swords (K67H996)
Open to boys and girls aged 4-7 of all skill levels – whether you’re brand new to Gaelic games or already a budding star, there’s fun, fitness, and skill-building for everyone.
Let’s get the kids active, having fun, and enjoying our great games. Spread the word and we’ll see you on the pitch!
Contact Cora, for more information 083-3741305.
Along with our Nursery, we also offer GAA too all age groups- if you are looking to get involved, joining up is easily done! Just contact the relevant person.
Adult Men’s Football: Call Patsy 0857362992
Gaelic for Mothers and Others : Call Deirdre 0879309962
Juvenile Football: (All Ages): Call Marian 0876819540 or email secretary.stcolmcilles. dublin@gaa.ie
Gaelic Football is a great way for you to get involved with the community, team building, learning new skills, all the while keeping fit and healthy. Come along, get involved and get behind your local club
WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!!
WE WANT YOUR LOCAL NEWS!!
• Do you run a Local Sports Club or Team?
• Are you a new business or a business celebrating an anniversary?
• Are you running or hosting a Local event or Fundraiser? • Do you have a story to tell?
• A Special Birthday, Christening, Communion.. Send us your pics.. We Want it ALL.. Contact us today: communitylocalseditor@gmail.com Be Part of Your Community News
This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@ gmail.com before 5pm on the 16th of this month. The first correct entry to be drawn will win €50..Good luck
Across
1. Capital of Lebanon. (6)
5. The fish of knowledge. (6)
10. Folding fun with paper. (7)
11. A sketchy summary. (7)
12. A small secluded or sheltered place. (4)
13. Move effortlessly through life. (5)
15. Uneven manner of walking. (4)
17. The last thing you’ll do. (3)
19. Lances removes dirt. (6)
21. A human being. (6)
22. Part of a novel. (7)
23. VW insect. (6)
25. Ship stopper. (6)
28. Cook on a hot surface using fat. (3)
30. You sow wild ones when you’re young. (4)
31. Microsoft founder. (5)
32. A hard cross-grained round piece of wood in a board. (4)
35. A Merlin is neither animal or vegetable. (7)
36. Tanned animal skin. (7)
37. Things to clutch in desperation. (6)
38. Type of foreign pastry. (6)
SUDOKU ANSWERS
Down
2. A part of a broadcast serial (7)
3. A deep sound from a crowd or lion. (4)
4. Camera support. (6)
5. A person’s partner in marriage. (6)
6. After the expected time. (4)
7. Beginnings. (7)
8. High quality brandy from France. (6)
9. Instrument for fighting or hunting. (6)
14. Plane place. (7)
16. The brother or your father or mother. (5)
18. Jules ..., French sci-fi writer. (5)
20. Female pronoun. (3)
21. Can be sweet, chick and blackeyed. (3)
23. Flowers for James Joyce. (6)
24. Dead as the dodo. (7)
26. Strong intuitive feelings. (7)
27. Go back to a place. (6)
28. Short stories from Aesop. (6)
29. Uttered a sudden loud cry. (6)
33. A subject of study. (4)
34. Farm building. (4)
