Editor
communitylocalseditor@gmail.com
Advertising
Louise Hogan – 0862249299 louise@irishmediagroup.ie
Sean Maguire (Publisher) - 087 915 9052 seanmaguire@irishmediagroup.ie
Production
Tim Evans communitylocalsdesigner@gmail.com
Contact us
Swords Local Magazine www.Facebook.com/SwordsLocal Communitylocalseditor@gmail.com
Designated Pick up Points
Supervalu, Pavilions
JC’s, Swords
Lidl, Rathbeale Road Applgreen, Malahide Rd., Swords
With the embers of Hallowe’en dying out we now look to one of the best times of the year for most people with Christmas just around the corner.
Most people will be busy clearing up the pumpkins and spooky decorations, while some will already be flat out getting their houses Christmas ready and some will be well ahead of the pack with a fair number of lights already set up from the previous years!
Christmas is a time of celebration, and reflection, and for most it is the one time of the year where all the family will get together for a few days and reminisce over their childhood memories of the festive season.
We always return to our childhood memories of Christmas with some remembering their favourite presents they received from the big man in red, and above all we will remember the best times from our childhood Christmases. After all isn’t Christmas all about the kids?
Who can’t say they get great enjoyment from watching the wonderment in children’s eyes when they arrive into the living room on Christmas morning to see what has been left under the Christmas tree for them? The sheer excitement is enough to make us adults feel that magic once again.
There is also great fun to be had all around Fingal with so many events taking place over the next 6-8 weeks on the run up to the festive week. Christmas markets, Light shows, musical events and so much more will be sure to kickstart the festivities for the majority of people.
Christmas time is also a time for remembrance of loved ones who are not with us anymore but their memories live on in the hearts and minds of their loved ones who will always uphold the festive traditions of yesteryear.
So, be sure to get out and about and enjoy the run-in to the biggest holiday of the year btu remember not to get caught up in the panic buying but rather try to take in all what your local area has to offer on your doorstep!
publishing | design | print | web
by www.irishmediagroup.ie
STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 14th for inclusion in next months edition
By Mike Power
Hallowe’en really means ‘the eve of the hallowed (‘holy) Saints Day (November 1st). The ancient Celts in Swords also had a holiday ‘Samhain’ at this time of year celebrating the end of harvest and the beginning of Winter. This feast-day was then adopted by the early Christian church here, becoming the traditional time for lots of spooky fun as we know it today. For much of it’s long life, Swords served a largely agricultural hinterland and many of the local traditions associated with this time of year such as ceasing to pick blackberries (angry spirits); putting out food for roaming spirits; wearing straw hats and lighting bonfires, are all connected with farming.
I can’t do any better in describing Sword’s ancient spooky ‘atmospherics’ of Hallowe’en, than quoting a piece from my forthcoming book ‘Swords: History and Heritage Community Guide’. This imagined historical scene happens up at Killeek to the west of Swords, beside the river Ward there. Killeek is a place with an ancient pagan heritage.
A line of torches led from the river to the sacred ash grove. It was Samhain for the tribe, their world poised between light and dark.. The soft light from a full moon glistened on the beads of frost on the ancient ash tree. A rhythmical, hypnotic chant came from the lines of people waiting to enter the sacred grove. Nearby a clutch of half wild dogs snarled over a wild boar’s head. From the river the Ollamh (Teacher) of the tribe brought a , cup full of water made from holly wood, holding it high in front of him, his pupils walking respectfully behind. The clothes he wore were dyed purple from berry dyes and his cloak draped him from head to toe. On his head he wore a wreath made from oak branches, the magic tree, the antlers from a buck doe on his head. When he entered the grove, a profound hush came on the people nearby. Entering the grove, the Ollamh sprinkled the water on the roots of the ash, a charm to ensure a good harvest in the coming year, and to placate Carnonos, the antler god. The chanting now began again, ringing around the valley’s flanks, louder and more fiercely. Triumphal fires were lit. In the people Hope was born again.
By Dave Kavanagh
Those that rent their accommodation privately, compared to home owners, can be a lot more vulnerable. Apart from the obvious points, like rents being increased or having to move out if a property is being sold, there are other potential events that could prove problematic for renters. As we saw in the early part of the pandemic, where many people’s incomes were drastically reduced, those with mortgages were permitted to avail of “payment breaks” with minimal effort. Unfortunately, those renting do not usually have the flexibility of this option. When someone cannot work due to illness or injury, they may suffer a loss of income, either immediately or after a short period, resulting in the inability to pay rent. This could lead to eviction and all of the problems associated with it. While those renting may not have been exposed to the kind of financial advice as someone going through the mortgage process, there are still safeguards that can be put in place. One option is Income Protection, paying them a portion of their income if they were unable to work due to illness
or injury. This could be the difference between affording rent or being evicted. Something not often considered by renters is Life Cover. If one of a couple renting passed away, this could allow the surviving partner (or family) to purchase their own home immediately without the need for a mortgage. Similarly, Serious Illness Cover could pay out a tax-free lump sum on diagnosis of one of the illnesses covered, giving another layer of financial security. Better to consider these options earlier rather than later.
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 Dave at info@ financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on 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 well being, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
By Jack Shanley
Joker: Folie à Deux hit cinemas last month and was met with mixed reviews upon its release. While some praised its visual style and the performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, others criticized its pacing, narrative, and overall tone. I happened to see it on the day of its release and had my own thoughts on one of the much-anticipated films of the year.
One of the primary criticisms levelled against the film was its lack of a clear narrative direction. While the first Joker film was a character study with a focused plot, Folie à Deux felt more like a series of disconnected vignettes. The film’s pacing was also a point of contention, with some viewers finding it slow and uneven.
Another common complaint was the film’s excessive use of musical numbers. While these sequences were visually striking, some felt that they detracted from the film’s overall tone and disrupted the narrative flow. Additionally, the film’s portrayal of mental illness was a source of debate, with some
arguing that it was insensitive and exploitative.
Despite these criticisms, Joker: Folie à Deux was undoubtedly a visually impressive film. The cinematography was stunning, and the production design was top-notch. Phoenix and Gaga also delivered strong performances, although some felt that their characters were underdeveloped, at times I felt it was just Gaga on screen and not Harley Quinn.
Ultimately, whether or not Joker: Folie à Deux is a successful film is a matter of personal opinion. While it offers a visually striking and thought-provoking experience, its narrative shortcomings and controversial themes may alienate some viewers.
In all truth I’d recommend checking out Joker: Folie à Deux and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of 2 stars. You can watch it today at your local cinema.
Director: Todd Phillips – Rating: 15A – Genre: Musical/Thriller
– Run Time: 2h 18m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.
Affordable Roofers Dublin is a team of highly qualified tradesmen with years of experience serving Dublin customers. They are on 24hours a day, 365 days a year, ready to respond to any type of roof repair work anywhere across Co. Dublin.
We also cover surrounding areas.
Whether it’s a leaking roof that needs to be fixed straight away, guttering that needs to be cleared, repair work to a chimney, or replacing broken tiles, we are here to help.
Our highly skilled tradesmen are available to investigate and pinpoint the cause of any water leak or roof defect and carry out the necessary repair works.
We provide affordable roofing services throughout the whole of Co. Dublin and further if needed.
The 16th Annual Valley walk took place on Saturday 12th October in River Valley, Swords to raise funds for Cancer research. The walk has grown from 30 walkers in the first year to 140 yesterday!
People come from far and wide every year meeting at Peacocks pub car park in River Valley for registration and refreshments provided by Fyffes and the local Daybreak shop. Very quickly the scene 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.
Following more refreshments consisting of Keoghs crisp, Supervalu bars, sweets etc on the Brackenstown road, along with the catch ups and chats, the walkers made their way back by the “Jacko” and finish back upstairs in Peacock’s where they enjoyed much needed coffee and beautiful scones, all donated by Peacock’s.
The walk organiser, Margaret Harris explained, “My A team of ladies continued to sell raffle tickets, and at one stage the queue stretched across the room. We had 43 raffle prizes donated by local businesses in River Valley, Boroimhe and Swords and some walkers donated lovely prizes also. Katie from Irish Cancer Society Research spoke about the latest developments in Cancer research. We finished off with a few words from myself and a hotly anticipated mega raffle. The Microphone etc was kindly set up by Chris Power. This event is very much a community event with our local councillors supporting it every year. Hopefully we can get to do it all again next year.
Between shopping, decorating and planning, Christmas is a busy time of year for Mammies so we’ve got some tips to help!
Meeting friends or family? Bracken Court Hotel’s ‘Winter Rose Afternoon Tea’ is a lovely way to enjoy a catch up. They also have fab shared Christmas party nights for dancing the night away.
Christmas day can be stressful, and it is wonderful to let someone else do all the hard work. Farnham Estate in Cavan has a fantastic Christmas package where you can enjoy festive Christmas Eve & Christmas Day dining without having to step into the kitchen! Ideal for family get togethers.
Love 90’s music? Pillo Hotel Ashbourne throwback Christmas party nights are jam packed with classic hits. Dance your cares away and check out their B&B offers. Much nicer to ‘Get the lift
home’ upstairs than worrying about taxis!
For those who are tricky to buy for, we love Hampers & Co. Their hampers start at €14 and there’s a huge range like wellness, wine, picnic, baby & more Literally something for everyone!
Looking for a winter getaway? The Four Seasons in Carlingford is within walking distance to gorgeous Carlingford Village and close to Dundalk. Lovely food, beautiful scenery, great shopping. They have wonderful winter packages available, and their gift vouchers make wonderful gifts.
For skincare lovers www.ziajashop.ie has gorgeous products. Available online and in Dunnes, Tesco & Chemist Warehouse. I love the Baltic Spa range for pampering. They have wonderful baby & kid’s products too, like bath jelly and cookies & cream toothpaste. Fun and
By Jon Kavanagh
Back in the early 80s we watched in wonderment when KITT the talking car appeared in the TV series Knight Rider. Today, KITT’s descendants all talk, as a disembodied voice guides us to our destination in air-conditioned luxury. But have we lost the driving experience? In years gone by motoring was hands on and problematic. Scarcely a day would pass without hearing the call for help “Will you give us a push?” The powerless steering on an uncooperative car carrying its own body weight in rust would have challenged the muscles of The Incredible Hulk himself.
Before embarking on a journey preparation was essential, with extra time added for the almost inevitable breakdown. Essential equipment included a large container of water for the radiator, that overheated more often than John McEnroe on the tennis court; a length of rope to secure any parts that came loose and a pair of ladies’ nylon stockings that were regularly called upon to serve their country as an emergency fan belt. If
affordable.
Looking for somewhere different for shop & stay break? The Silken Thomas, in the grounds of Kildare Castle is unique. Close to Kildare Village, it has beautiful accommodation, plus award winning bar & dining.
Mrs Claus Gingerbread Christmas experience at Casino Model Railway Museum Malahide is back this year and is open for bookings.
Santas Magical Cabin at Ilac SC & Kilnamanagh is also back. Book at Santaexperience.ie
Elf Town Dublin at RDS is now taking bookings too. After the huge success last year, The Lark Panto is back. This year it’s Cinderella and runs from 5th December. Tickets are on sale now! Follow us on mams.ie for more tips & giveaways!
cars were performing below par, so too were many of their drivers. Prior to the introduction of the driving test in 1964, people simply went to the post office and brought a licence that entitled them to drive anything from a mini to a bus – a situation that led to some interesting characters finding themselves behind the wheel.
A couple of ‘eccentric’ drivers that come to mind include a district health nurse who would exit her black Morris Minor, walk a distance to a crossroads, look both ways, leisurely return to the car and drive through, with a misplaced confidence that made Russian roulette look like a game of snakes and ladders, and a North County Dublin farmer who took up driving somewhat late in life. Following a spate of near misses, a well-meaning friend advised him to use his indicators, so people would know where he was going. In response he sharply retorted “It’s none of their (“!”) business where I’m going!” Today we are disconnected from our cars. We no longer “go for a spin” with no particular purpose in mind. A professional with a laptop is required to make even minor adjustments. The days of clutching an oily rag and a heavy hammer, known affectionally as “the persuader” are well and truly in the rear-view mirror.
By Jon Kavanagh
Like many great ideas it all started more or less by accident. Back in 1999 a few friends were socialising in the village of Ballyboughal when someone said, “Wouldn’t it be nice to go for a walk?” They began a fortnightly walk around the surrounding area. Word spread quickly and the idea literally gained legs, as more and more people joined the now weekly event. The meeting points expanded to cover the entire Fingal area and beyond. The members see hidden gems and pick up a bit of local history as they cast their shadow on just about every nook and cranny, from Newbridge House to Oldbridge House, from Balbriggan to Blessington and everywhere in
between.
The celebration weekend included a dinner dance and a special walk, led by David O’Connor, former Mayor of Fingal, and sadly the sole survivor of the founder members. Dave retraced the steps of the first walk from Naul village to the Four Knocks Passage Tomb, which incidentally has a larger interior than New Grange. Lockdown was difficult but thankfully the gregarious lot managed to keep in touch on social media. As soon as restrictions were lifted the club sprang back bigger than ever. On an average Sunday morning around forty turn out to walk and talk whilst getting a bit of fresh air and exercise. The club has a strong social aspect and many longlasting friendships have been formed over the years.
Due to increasing demand for space in our magazine could all contributors please note OUR STRICT DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES AND PICS IS THE 14TH OF THE MONTH PRIOR TO PUBLICATION ** Thank you.
Celebrating 20 years next January, experience TradFest everywhere you go, from the Mountains of South Dublin across Dublin City and to the castles and coastline of historic Fingal.
Now in its third year in Fingal the festival will return to the many unique and historic venues across the region: Malahide Castle, Swords Castle Chapel, The Millbank Theatre, Skerries Mill, Draíocht Theatre and the iconic Seamus Ennis Arts Centre, while increasing its musical footprint in additional new venues: The Lark, Ardgillan Castle, The Abbey Tavern and Donabate Community Centre.
Fingal Acts for 2025 include: Karen CaseyThe Women we will rise, Jacqui Martin & Derek Hickey, Tara Breen, Eoghan ó’Ceannabhaín, Mike Hanrahan and Eleanor Shanley, Luka Bloom, Ines Khai, Molly O’Mahony, Paudie O’Connor &
Aoife Ni Chaoimh, Emma Langford, Stockton’s Wing -Voices from Fingal Mick Hanly with Anto Drennan and Eoin O’Neill, The Henry Girls, Bernadette Nic Gabhann, Frank, O’Rourke & John Feely, Molly Donnery, Brídín, Sorcha Costello, Evelyn Kallansee & Declan Sinnott
There will also be a special celebration of the actor, local resident and TradFest patron Stephen Rea. The Oscar-nominated and multi awardwinning actor has for long had a global reputation for his exceptional skills on both stage and screen. Over four nights in The Lark Theatre, Balbriggan, TradFest will honour Stephen through words and music. Joining Stephen over the 4 nights will be poet Paul Muldoon and musicians Neil Martin, Louise Mulcahy, Matt Molloy, Maighread Ní Dhomnaill, Paddy Glackin and Derek Hickey.
TradFest in Fingal will also celebrate the life of Barney McKenna, original member of the Irish band The Dubliners and Fingal resident across two days and nights in The Abbey Tavern, Howth in January 2025.
Mike Hanrahan and Stockton’s Wing will give a special concert in Donabate Community Centre where they will be joined on stage by the voices of Fingal Choir
In line with its audience development objectives, TradFest also will deliver an expanded community programme later this year which will outline a series of new exciting, free communityled events in Fingal.
Whether you’re a fan of live music, or just looking for a night of Irish culture and craic, TradFest is where you want to be in January 2025.
A new exhibit that showcases experiences faced by people from marginalised communities across Ireland has been opened in Swords, as Fingal County Council looks to continue its efforts to combat racist attitudes and behaviours.
The “Building Bridges: Forging Pathways Beyond Prejudice” exhibition is the fourth and final phase of the SALAAM project which was developed in partnership with Fingal County Council and the University of Limerick, Doras, the Immigrant Council of Ireland and the Irish Network Against Racism.
Opening the exhibition, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Brian McDonagh, said: “Fingal is a county that not only celebrates its rich diversity but actively fosters inclusion and social cohesion. We take pride in our role as leaders in delivering on our Public Sector Duty obligations. This commitment isn’t just outlined in our strategic plans and policies—it is embedded in the very heart of everything we do. Our goal is to ensure that all who live, work, and visit Fingal feel welcomed and safe”.
Fingal is amongst the most diverse and dynamically growing populations in Ireland and Fingal County Council is committed to social integration and enhancing the quality of life for
all the residents as it continues to grow.
Minister Joe O’Brien emphasised: “Fingal continues to ensure that it meets the needs of one of the country’s most diverse populations. In doing so it looks to recognise the vital contributions that non-Irish communities make to our lives every day and reminds us all of the importance of providing welcome & supports to all Fingal residents so that we can continue to build successful & thriving communities that benefit all of us living and working in the Fingal area.”
Featuring eight comics, the collection of heartfelt stories aims to share the often-harsh experiences faced by non-Irish nationals and open up a dialogue that champions diversity, equality and inclusion.
The project lead, Dr. James Carr from University of Limerick, says: “The ‘Building Bridges: Forging Pathways Beyond Prejudice’ exhibition is a poignant testament to the power of visual art as a tool for creating an understanding of our changing environment. It serves as a platform for the unheard by amplifying the narratives and lived experiences of our diverse communities through visual storytelling”.
The Club has been busy the last few weeks. Along with regular training four members of the club participated in the ONAKAI National Kata Championships. Boasting competitors from all over Ireland, our club members did fantastic taking home three medals and title of National Kata Champion. Sophia Guildea, Amelia Miller, and Lilia Beaumont had a clean sweep in the Cadet Female Brown & Black Belt category with Lilia taking Bronze, Amelia taking Silver and Sophia taking the Gold and National Kata Champion title for the category. The girls train hard, and it is great to see these results coming through at National level. Also competing on the day was Harrison Beaumont who unfortunately got knocked out just before the medal rounds in his category Boys Under 12 Brown & Black Belt.
We were privileged to host Yamaguchi Sensei 7th Dan JKS for a two-day seminar recently. Yamaguchi Sensei is one of the top Instructors in the JKS and he did not disappoint over the two days. On the Friday evening members of JKS Swords along with JKS members from around the country gathered to train in the Fingal Liam Rodgers Community Centre with this dynamic Instructor. Taking the attendees through kihon, kumite and kata, Yamaguchi Sensei inspired everyone with his fantastic karate and superb instruction.
On Saturday morning in Applewood Community Centre Yamaguchi Sensei delivered a stunning 3-hour seminar for the participants. He covered Heian Katas and Bassai Dai for junior members and then the kata Suishu for the senior grades. Over 70 JKS Ireland members were in attendance on the Saturday and JKS Swords was proud to host the event in their home club.
Next on the calendar is a 1-day visit from Watanabe Sensei, JKS Honbu Dojo Instructor. A seasoned competitor and very capable instructor, it promises to be an excellent Seminar.
Our Club is always looking for new members (Children, Young People & Adults). Contact Dermot on 087-8073885 for details on how to join our club. You can also contact us on Facebook: JKS Swords Karate Club or on Instagram: @jks_swords_karate_club
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
1. Felt a powerful desire for something. (6)
5. The world’s second largest country by area. (6)
10. Capable of resuming original shape after stretching. (7)
11. Pedal driven vehicle. (7)
12. Thin and fit. (4)
13. Sweet food from nectar. (5)
15. Send via the postal service. (4)
17. Scrape as if to relieve itching. (3)
19. A word or phrase that particular people use in particular situations. (6)
21. Not often. (6)
22. Previously, before now. (7)
23. Country which achieved independence from Sweden in 1905. (6)
25. Ancient Greek oracle. (6)
28. A short day! (3)
30. Youthful males. (4)
31. Take a husband or a wife. (5)
32. An inclined surface connecting two levels. (4)
35. Bring something to a destination. (7)
36. Relating to an area beside the sea. (7)
37. Produced by crossbreeding. (6)
38. Delievered a sharp blow. (6)
2. The state of the world as it really is rather than as you might want it to be. (7)
3. Express one’s preference for a candidate in an election. (4)
4. A licensed medical practitioner. (6)
5. Evidence of a spider. (6)
6. Long part of a guitar or banjo. (4)
7. State emphatically and authoritatively. (7)
8. Beds on a ship or train; usually in tiers. (6)
9. Expression of doubtful interest or surprise. (6)
14. Questionable energy source. (7)
16. A person who is regarded as underhanded and furtive. (5)
18. Challenged to do something. (5)
20. Bright and pleasant; promoting a feeling of cheer. (3)
21. The colour of the Left. (3)
23. A person of little influence. (6)
24. Payment to a copyright holder for use of their work. (7)
26. Generic name for a credit card. (7)
27. African antelope with ridged curved horns. (6)
28. The opposite of profane and ungodly. (6)
29. Rough paths and roads. (6)
33. Finished in cricket. (4)
34. A poker hand with two cards of the same value. (4)
