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Community Coming Together for Christmas

As the crisp November air settles over Fingal, locals in the towns and villages begin to glow with anticipation for the festive season. From the bustling streets of Swords and Balbriggan to picturesque Malahide, Donabate, Rush&Lusk, local businesses and community groups are already gearing up to make this Christmas one to remember.

In towns across Fingal, shopfronts are dressing up with twinkling lights, while markets and craft fairs offer the perfect opportunity to find locally made gifts. Supporting these local traders not only keeps the area’s economy thriving but also strengthens the sense of community that makes Fingal so special.

November is also a time for connection and giving back. Fingal County Council and local community centres host a variety of volunteer and charity initiatives — from food bank collections to Christmas tree planting and tidy-town efforts. Residents are encouraged to get involved, whether by joining a local clean-up, helping decorate village greens, or donating to local causes.

Cultural events add extra sparkle, with choir performances, winter markets, and family-friendly gatherings filling calendars throughout the month. Libraries and arts centres across Fingal also offer festive workshops, story times, and craft sessions, bringing people together in creativity and celebration.

As Fingal prepares for Christmas, the focus remains on community spirit — on neighbours supporting one another, businesses helping local causes, and everyone doing their part to make the season bright. November in Fingal is more than just a prelude to Christmas; it’s a reminder that the heart of the holidays lies in coming together.

The Locals Team

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STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 15th for inclusion in next months edition

How to treat Sinus

problems

with Traditional Chinese Medicine

Sinus issues in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are understood as imbalances of the body’s vital energy (Qi), often influenced by both internal and external factors, rather than just local infections or blockages as in Western medicine.

Body & Environment Interaction

Environmental Influence: Common triggers include weather changes, pollution, allergens, and seasonal shifts, which TCM interprets as invasions of Wind, Damp, or Heat. The body’s constitution (tendency toward heat, cold, etc.) affects how it responds to these influences.

Emotions: Emotional states can affect organ function—worry may weaken the spleen (affecting mucus), sadness may injure the lungs (reducing defence), and anger can trap Qi, leading to head and facial pressure. Typical Symptoms & Patterns from a Chinese medicine perspective Heat: Thick, yellow discharge, redness, swelling. Cold: Clear, watery mucus, congestion, and pain. Dampness: Heavy sensation, swollen sinuses, sticky mucus. Chronic Sinusitis: Usually involves “Dampness” and “Phlegm,” overlapping with Western ideas of persistent congestion and inflammation.

TCM Treatment Basics Herbal Formulas expel pathogens (like Heat or Dampness), drain mucus, and strengthen underlying organ weaknesses. If symptoms are severe, recurrent, or not improving,

consult a qualified TCM practitioner for individualised assessment and herbal guidance. Many TCM herbs can interact with medications or cause allergic reactions if used inappropriately; professional guidance is strongly recommended. Acupuncture Acupuncture targets specific points to open sinuses, clear blockages in energy channels, and restore balance. *Acupressure* on points like Bi Tong, Large intestine 20 (beside the nostrils), and Yin Tang (midway between eyebrows) using fingertips may offer home relief. Lifestyle and dietary advice are often given to support spleen and lung health, such as avoiding cold or damp foods. This approach emphasises restoring the body’s overall balance and resilience, not just treating the local sinus symptoms.

Foods that can trigger Sinus Excessive dairy products, refined sugars, alcohol, gluten, processed foods, and foods high in saturated fats do create problems for your sinuses. If you phase out or reduce these you will notice a major improvement.

Essential Oils Several essential oils are commonly used to help relieve sinus infection symptoms, particularly congestion, inflammation, and sinus pressure. Essential oils should be used as complementary approaches, not a replacement for medical therapy in cases of persistent or severe sinus infections. Some oils, especially tea tree, should not be inhaled directly and must always be diluted. Please do a skin patch test before first use and consult with a healthcare professional if you have allergies, asthma, or chronic sinus problems The most frequently recommended oils and their

With Susan

properties include: Eucalyptus oil: Contains Cineole, which acts as a decongestant, helps clear mucus, and may have antimicrobial properties. Peppermint oil: The menthol in peppermint oil provides a cooling effect, soothes sinus pressure and headaches, acts as an expectorant, and offers mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Tea tree oil: Valued for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. It may reduce swelling but should not be inhaled directly due to safety concerns. Rosemary oil: May offer anti-inflammatory effects and support respiratory health.

Application methods: Steam inhalation: Add a few drops (typically 20) of essential oil to 2 litres hot water, drape a towel over your head, and inhale the vapours while keeping your eyes closed for 10 minutes. Sinus Saline rise Using a saline Sinus rise morning and evening can also prevent the accumulation of mucus and airborne dust particles, when you have cleared the nasal cavity make sure to dry the inner part of the nose to ensure the wet area is dried properly. A Zinc Deficiency can also cause problems in the mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. Exposure to air borne allergies such as dust mites, pollens, moulds, perfumes, aerosols, chemicals, animal dander and natural feathers. Warm compresses applied gently over the sinus areas may alleviate discomfort, particularly if the condition is due to “cold.

In Wellness

Susan

Small Benefit Exemption For Your Staff

By Dave Kavanagh

From 1st January 2025, employers can provide up to five, small, non-cash benefits per employee per year, with a combined value of up to €1,500, free of PAYE, PRSI and USC. To qualify, benefits must not be in cash, must not be redeemable (in part or full) for cash, and must be something used to buy goods or services.

So, what type of options/cards qualify to be used for this? Store-specific or multi-store gift vouchers/cards that are used to buy goods/ services and cannot be exchanged for cash. E.g. a gift card for a department store, or supermarket, or a retailer. Closed-loop gift cards (cards valid in certain stores or groups of stores) used only to purchase goods/services. Tangible non-cash gifts (e.g. objects, hampers, items) which are similar in value to vouchers, again provided they are used to buy goods/services or are themselves goods. Non-cash benefit cards such as gift cards that are structured so that they are not redeemable for cash or usable like a debit card with direct cash extraction capability.

Options that do not qualify include cards that are redeemable for cash (or partially usable as cash). For example, any gift or “card” that allows the holder to withdraw cash, or exchange for cash. Prepaid debit cards or “spend anywhere” cards if their terms allow the card to be used like

cash / cash-equivalent (e.g. ATM withdrawals etc.). If the card is effectively redeemable for or convertible into cash, the revenue rules treat it as a cash benefit and it loses the exemption. Any bonus or benefit provided via payroll or via salary sacrifice. These must be provided outside payroll and not deducted from salary.

With the recent budget not being exceptionally generous to workers, this is a great way to both reward employees without having to tax them further and also benefit employers as gifts are tax deductible.

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.

Getting ready for winter!

November is a great time for a clear out and Oxigen has a wide range of skips for getting rid of old Halloween decorations, junk from around the house, and debris from the garden. Ideal for getting your home Christmas decorating ready.

Small accessories like lamps, decorative cushions and rugs can transform a room and we’re very impressed with the colourfully decorative rugs from RugShop.ie An Irish company, they have a huge range of rugs and underlays. We got new rugs for our daughters’ bedrooms and the quality is exceptional. The underlays are brilliant too. The old rugs got bunched up and stuck in the vacuum and under beds but these new ones are gorgeous, and they stay put, ensuring no slipping and sliding! Check them out at www.rugshop.ie

Did you know The Gem Treatery in Balbriggan is not just an ice cream shop? They have delicious coffee, pancakes, crepes, sandwiches. Download their QR code to get every 10th coffee free. Enjoy their weekly parent & baby mornings. Their gift vouchers make excellent gifts for Christmas, perfect for treating teachers!

Adventure Light at Skypark is now open for 2025! Discover the maze, see the dazzling light displays, toast smores and enjoy a fabulous family

night out. Book at www.skypark.ie

Wicklow on Ice, the spectacular ice rink at Avondale House opens 14th November and bookings are now open. You can also enjoy twinkly tree top walks at Avondale, a beautiful location for making family memories

Looking for ideas for Christmas party night ideas? Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan is now taking bookings for their wonderful party packages and fab festive menu.

Thinking of a winter mini break? Farnham Estate in Cavan is glorious at this time of year – the warm outdoor pool in wintertime is truly special. Their gift vouchers are wonderful for Christmas.

Kids illnesses are rampant at this time of year, and we recommend Tonstix; lollipops kids suck to soothe their sore throats. So clever, so easy and they’re an Irish brand too! See www.tonstix,com

For adults, Sentro Labs customers can save 20% on every order of gut and immune support supplements and get free delivery. Use code MAMS15 for an additional 15% off the first subscription. See https://www.sentrolabs.com/ collections/bundle-save

Stay well this winter!

Swords Tidy Towns at the Heart of the Community

By Ken Duffy

Swords Tidy Towns have been up and running for over twenty years now, in that time the face of Swords has changed dramatically. This change is due in no small part to the hard work put in by our volunteers over that twentyyear period who contributed their time and energy to that change. Many volunteers have passed through our doors in that time and many the longtime friendships blossomed.

A town is much more than bricks and mortar, it’s the community that thrives within, they are its heart and soul, they breathe life into it, they give it it’s character. It is their willingness to volunteer and contribute to the betterment of their community that pushes our town forward.

Swords has come a long way since it was designated a litter black spot in 2003, today it is a 2024 national Gold Medal winner. This speaks volumes

about the commitment of our Swords Tidy Towns volunteers, and the many other community volunteer organisations who strive to do their best for Swords.

Swords Tidy Towns waits with bated breath for this year’s National Tidy Towns medal results, did we or did we not once again achieve Gold Medal status. All we can do, is keep our fingers crossed.

Swords Tidy Towns offers a friendly welcome to new volunteers, a nice cuppa with biscuits and a chat after each Saturday morning work. We are very well taken care of by Willie and his wonderful team at the Old Schoolhouse.

We meet each Saturday at 10am in the car park of Cove & Co previously known as Colourtrend which is opposite the Swords Garda Station, we would love to see you there, just turn up. If you require any further info contact me Ken Duffy Chairperson on 086-6008313

Annual Valley Walk Raises Vital Funds for Irish Cancer Society

The 18th Annual Valley Walk in aid of Irish Cancer Society took place on Saturday and within just a few days over €8,000 was already raised!

People come from far and wide every year meeting at Peacocks pub car park in River Valley for registration and refreshments, and the scene quickly became a sea of yellow with the walkers’ Irish Cancer Society t-shirts as they started the 5km walk around the lovely park and woods. The total raised so far since 2008 is 130 thousand. Further details are available from Margaret Harris on 087 221 3605.

By Mike Power

The Arch Pub Swords Main Street

With it’s different names over time, the presentday Arch pub has always played a pivotal role in the social life of Swords. Burnt by the Black and Tans in 1920, it’s granite facade still features some bullet-holes dating from that troubled era of Swords history.

The earlier photo shows that another business, a harness-makers shop, was originally attached to the main building, as well as a ‘jostle-stone’ to stop cartwheels striking and damaging its wall. These vertical stones can be found in many of the

back lanes of Swords. These particular structures were removed when Chapel Lane was widened for modern traffic.

The eponymous star above gave it’s name to this business in the modern age.In the 80s and 90s, many older Swords folk looked forward to their Sunday roast carried home to them from the Star!

The ad in the left window is for DWD, the Dublin Whiskey Distillery, a famous distiller

founded by master distiller John Brannick in 1872.His distillery was located on Jone’s Road and ushered in a golden age of Irish whiskey making. Amazingly, this venerable business was revived in 2017, some 71 years later, continuing a long and honerable tradition of distilling in Dublin.

The modern business here continues Sword’s long and proud tradition of hospitality and friendliness to all customers. Cheers!!

From the roadside pump to designer water bottles

Whilst walking around Swords recently a passerby asked, “Do you have the time?”. Once a common question but something seldom heard since we evolved to grow that appendage known as the smart phone. The random encounter with the time seeker got me thinking about how much daily life has changed since we Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964) cast a youthful shadow upon the earth. Not everyone had a watch and those who did had to wind them on a regular basis. The local phone box was our digital hub. To use the facility, the speed of an Olympian runner and the cunning of a wise old fox were mandatory in order to reach its door before a certain neighbour. Should she cross the finish line before you, a battle of the irresistible force and immovable object ensued, as she attempted to break the world record for the longest phone call in history. We didn’t get a landline till the early nineties. Years earlier when my father was in hospital, I rang to enquire how he was doing. Instead of the stock reply “As well as can be expected”, a helpful nurse put him on to me. As he had never heard my voice on the phone before, it took all my diplomatic skills

to convince him I wasn’t an imposter.

Today shopping is a leisure activity. Back then it was a necessary chore to replenish the basics. Before self-service, we queued at a high counter and timidly asked the shopkeeper (some could be grumpy and hadn’t the customer is always right) for what we wanted. Food hygiene was not in their vocabulary, as cooked and uncooked meats were cut on the same slicer. School lunches are in the news at the moment. Our mothers sent us forth with jam or soggy tomato sandwiches accompanied by a Tupperware beaker of milk to wash them down. We didn’t carry designer water bottles (that other modern day appendage) and survived drinking water of dubious quality water from the roadside pump. We learned to write with a nib pen and ink, and became highly skilled in the art of ducking - a crucial skill to avoid the incoming blackboard duster on a collision course for our heads.

Perhaps the real answer to the passerby is -A very different time!

The Lark at The Irish Institute of Music & Song: Enriching the Community Through Music

In just a few short years, the Irish Institute of Music & Song (IIMS) has transformed Balbriggan into one of Ireland’s most exciting cultural hubs. As a not-for-profit organisation, the IIMS is dedicated to making high-quality music education and experiences accessible to everyone of all ages and from beginner to professional. The mission of the IIMS is simple - to enrich lives through music while celebrating creativity, inclusion and community.

At the heart of the IIMS campus is the multi award-winning Lark Concert Hall, which was voted Ireland’s Favourite New Building of 2024.

Since opening in November 2023, The Lark has become a beacon for the arts in Fingal. Through concerts, workshops, and events, it connects local audiences with world-class performers while supporting educational programmes for local and international students.

Each year, the IIMS delivers over 100,000 hours of music tuition and welcomes tens of thousands of visitors through performances, school programmes, and community initiatives. From early-years classes and intergenerational events to the innovative Traditional Music Access

Illegal waste collectors and illegal dumping awareness campaign Launched

Fingal County Council Waste Enforcement Section has initiated a campaign to help raise awareness about illegal waste collectors and illegal dumping.

Illegal waste collectors use social media and advertising sites to offer cheap waste removal services with the waste ending up being dumped in remote areas causing environmental pollution. Every year Local Authorities spend thousands of euro on clean up costs to remove illegally dumped waste, money which could be better spent on improving public services within local communities. Before handing over your

waste, always ask for ID and to see a copy of their waste collection permit which can be checked on the National Waste Collection Permit Office website at www.nwcpo.ie. No permit, then they’re not authorised to collect waste. Don’t risk getting a €150 fine or a criminal conviction if found guilty in Court.

As part of this awareness campaign a short advert has been developed which is being shown across 5 different cinemas over these months (Swords, Balbriggan, Charlestown, Blanchardstown and Santry) to highlight the issues around illegal waste collectors and the damage that’s

caused by illegal dumping.

We all have a responsibility to manage our waste and to protect the environment for future generations. Our key aim is to encourage and educate individuals to make the right choices regarding their waste and to participate in authorised waste collection services.

If householders know of anyone offering these ‘Man in a Van’ services, please contact environment@fingal.ie or Tel: 01 8906799.

Programme, the IIMS strives for music education accessibility.

The Lark’s events play a vital role in sustaining the not-for-profit model of the IIMS, enabling income to fund community outreach, scholarships, and artist residencies. The IIMS has a vibrant vision for arts within the region, a place where music education, performance, and inclusion come together to create lasting cultural and social harmony.

www.irishinstituteofmusic.com www.thelark.ie

Illegal dumping is costly. It threatens our environment. Let’s all take responsibility. #StopIllegalDumping Report Illegal Dumping Call: 01 890 5000 Email: environment@fingal.ie YOUR COUNTY. YOUR WASTE?

The videos are available on Youtube - https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=H_Hi1hhzPFE and will form part of a Social Media Campaign.

Saying Goodbye: One of the Hardest Decisions By Dr. Carla Lluch, Veterinary Practitioner

One of the hardest decisions we face as pet parents is knowing when it’s time to let them go. As a veterinary professional who has also gone through this personally, I can tell you: there is no universal answer. Every case, every family, and every pet is different. What matters is that the decision is made in the best interest of the animal. We’re here to guide you through that moment, to help you make the most compassionate and informed choice. So don’t hesitate to reach out once, twice, or 300 times if you need to. We understand how difficult it is, and we are here to help.

Watching our pets grow old is a privilege. And having the power to decide when it’s time to say goodbye is a final act of love.

When we make that decision, it’s for them, but also for us. To be at peace with ourselves, knowing we did everything possible to make their time with us joyful.

We often ask the same questions, but the answers are unique to every animal:

Do they still enjoy walks?

If your dog never really liked walks and preferred the sofa, that’s not a good measure. But if they used to run happily through the park and now refuse to go out, that’s a sign something’s wrong.

Do they still seek affection and company?

Wanting cuddles is a sign of well-being. A cat who hides and wants to be alone may be telling us that something has changed.

Do they still have an appetite?

Food is often a great indicator. At a certain age, and if their health allows, we can bend the rules a bit. If your dog wants fries from McDonald’s and it makes them happy, that’s okay. But if they’re no longer even smelling their food, maybe their body is telling us it’s time.

It’s not just about age or a diagnosis, it’s about their quality of life.

Veterinarians, nurses, and every member of the clinic team are both professionally and personally prepared to support you through this. Please, don’t hesitate to reach out as many times as it takes. We’re here to help you make the most compassionate decision possible.

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