LucanInformer 15,000 copies delivered monthly
September 2010 • Unit 38, Northwood Court, Santry, Dublin 9 • Tel: 01 813 8786 • Email: info@informer.ie • Web: www.informer.ie
Lucan and Palmerstown
Lucan students left out in school places crisis
Lucan students and pupils are being forced to commute out of the area as the severe shortage in local school places continues. This September, the school By Cathy Geagan places crisis in Lucan is once again all too evident. Many young Lucan citizens will once again have to add additional commuting to schools in other areas, and/or substandard classrooms in the form of deteriorating prefabs to the stresses incurred at this challenging transition in their education – a situation which often n Senator Frances Fitzgerald results in additional expenditure they will quite literally have to for their families. walk past the school gates of their Local Senator Frances nearest Second Level School and Fitzgerald has lashed out at the take a bus to a different parish”. Government for its failure to Despite the tripling of the Lucan deliver for the people of Lucan, population in the past ten years, stating that there is: “a real school an increase in school places in the places crisis in Lucan. Parents region as yet to follow. With furfrom right across Lucan have been ther development planned for the in touch with me over the failure Lucan area, most notably in the of this Government to deliver controversial proposed Griffeen adequate local resources for their high rise, the CSO confirmed children. A child living in need for a number of additional Cannonbrook, for example, may schools has never been more be faced with the situation where apparent.
What we should do with Anglo Irish Michael Noonan - Page 3
Despite a wait of several years, development of the new site for Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada is yet to become a reality, while the student's of St. Andrews continue to endure over-crowded pre-fabs as the school struggles to cope with huge demand from the locality. Some progress has been made on the provision of another secondary school for Lucan, but one additional school is not enough to address the scale of the placement crisis. Frances Fitzgerald remains “deeply concerned that the Government will drag the process out as long as they can to delay incurring costs”, noting the government's recent decision to cut the Capital Spend Budget by €1billion. Without a concrete timeline for this new school 'going live', it is not clear how long Lucan's young population will have to wait to feel real progress has been made, she said.
Transylvania Horror! Presenting
star quality
Brian Ormond Interview Page 14
Start re-learning your lines! The show that ran and ran in the movies is now coming to the Grand Canal Theatre stage direct from London's West End. A massive opportunity to dress up in tights beckons, to pay homage to that transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania and to sing along to 1970s rock opera songs. See page 24.
Irish People want aid to keep flowing Hans Zomer of Dóchas - Page 3
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The Informer
The Drift The Informer Poll Yes
no
Are we getting the full facts about the state of Anglo Irish Bank? Dublin Total
84%
16%
Should Tony Blair have been allowed to hold his book signing in Ireland? Dublin Total
8%
92% Santry
Santry
80%
20%
10%
90%
Lucan
Lucan
85%
15%
Blanchardstown
90%
10%
5%
95% Blanchardstown
15%
85%
Raheny
Raheny
75%
25%
10%
90%
Swords
Swords
95%
5% Rathmines
Rathmines
80%
20%
Rathfarnham
70%
Dún Laoghaire
80%
20%
10%
90%
Rathfarnham
30%
Dún Laoghaire
5%
95% Dundrum
80%
15%
85%
Sandyford
5%
5%
95%
Dundrum
20%
0%
100%
Sandyford
95%
100%
0%
Survey carried out on Monday 6th & Tuesday 7th September 2010. This is a “door step” survey. Total number of people interviewed is 200 with 20 residents being interviewed in their homes in each of the areas shown by Informer Newspapers Ltd. Results published do not reflect the views or the opinions of The Informer Newspapers or any of its employees
Dublin by Numbers
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This is the amount of "Unaccounted for Water" supplied in the Dublin City Council area in 2008. In other words, for every 100 litres supplied, 74 litres reach the tap and the rest is "unaccounted for". The situation is better in the other Dublin local authority areas: Dun Laoghaire - 29%; Fingal - 22% and South Dublin 20%. On top of that, users waste some water as well.
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Comment & Debate
Charity begins at home, but Irish people don’t want it to end there
The Government should deliver on its aid promises to the world’s poorest people, according to a recent opinion poll by Ipsos MRBI. The survey, which was commissioned by Dóchas - the umbrella group of Irish development NGOs - found that 81 percent of respondents agreed it was important for Ireland’s reputation that the Government delivered on its aid promises of spending 0.7 per cent of national income on aid by 2015 at the latest. The poll results provide a powerful response to those who argue that Ireland’s current financial difficulties mean that we can no longer afford overseas aid. First of all, Ireland spends a lot less on overseas
aid than we think: the opinion poll revealed that most people think we spend between 2 and 10 percent of national income on aid, whereas the real figure is 0.54% - or just 54 cent in every 100 euro. Secondly, the poll counters the ‘charity begins at home’ slogan, by showing that even those people in Ireland who feel the impact of the economic crisis most, and who are unemployed themselves, continue to support Government funding of overseas aid. The poll revealed that across the country, and across age groups and social strata, the vast majority of people feel that Ireland has an obligation to
What we should do about Anglo Irish Bank Apparently the economy has stabilised. Another corner has been turned and things are looking up. Well, that’s according to Minister Lenihan. Sounds familiar? Well, by my reckoning that’s about the fifth time now, that a corner has been turned and stabilisation is happening. You and I know it's not. That’s the simple, miserable fact of the matter. Unemployment is up to 13.8% and still rising. That translates to 455,000 people on the Live Register, 112,306 of those are from Dublin. Try imagining Croke Park on All Ireland Final day full to the brim with Dublin, Cork, Down, Tipperary or Kilkenny supporters. Now think of 6 Croke Parks like that and you have an idea how many people are looking for work. In the face of all this, more “corner turned”, “worst is over” rhetoric from the two Brians is an insult to the people bearing the brunt of this recession. The corner hasn’t turned and we’re not through the worst. And we’re not through the worst because the Government’s plans are not working. But it’s the two Brian’s approach to Anglo Irish Bank that is truly crippling us. It’s not by chance that the Financial Times in London wrote recently that Irish banks remain on “life support” and that Anglo was “still the rotting corpse in the disaster zone of Irish banking”. The day before the New York Times asked in a headline; “Can one bank bring down a country?”, when considering the impact of the Anglo bailout. One example of the choices made by Fianna Fáil illustrates this point clearly. Over the next four years the Government will cut €18 billion from our capital budget while pumping more than €22 billion to date in to Anglo. Instead of pouring money in to
By Michael Noonan TD Fine Gael Finance Spokesperson useful, job creating capital programmes, our money is going in to the black pit of Anglo. What a sickening waste. Minister Lenihan must now give a definitive figure for the cost of saving Anglo Irish. Taxpayers have a right to know and the information is essential to lower interest rates in the bond markets. He may not be able to give a figure to the nearest euro but I’d accept his estimate to the nearest billion euro. Minister Lenihan must also abandon his misguided policy of bailing out Anglo Irish no matter what the cost and adopt the Fine Gael policy outlined twenty months ago. We called for Anglo Irish Bank to be wound down, in an orderly manner over five to seven years, thus forcing professional investors to share the burden of Anglo’s losses. Fine Gael believes up to €6 billion of taxpayers’ money could still be saved if Minister Lenihan began an orderly wind-down of Anglo Irish. If he doesn’t pursue this course of action, borrowing costs will rise, capital spending will be cut while billions are poured in to a zombie bank and our banking system remains dysfunctional. Our economy can’t afford Anglo. Our people can’t afford Fianna Fáil. Both need to go.
assist those who are much less fortunate than we are, and that we must deliver on our aid promise. Ireland has committed – as recently as December last year – to spend 0.7% of our gross national income (GNI) on overseas development aid by 2015. This commitment has received cross-party support in the Dáil, and clearly enjoys public support as well. Irish aid agencies have welcomed the results of the poll, pointing to the fact that – even in an economic downturn – people in Ireland believe that the economic crisis shouldn’t be a reason for us to turn our back on the world’s poorest people. Ireland made promises to the world’s poorest
people, and built a global reputation on the strength of those promises, and we know that that is exactly what people in Ireland want to see happen,” said At the UN Millennium Summit in 2000, the then Taoiseach Bertie Ahern committed Ireland to meeting the UN target for spending 0.7 per cent of national income on overseas aid by 2007. Since then the Government has twice revised the date for achieving that goal, and now says its aim is to reach the UN target by 2015. Hans Zomer is Director of Dóchas, the association of Irish Non-Governmental Development Organisations
4
A new woodland for Wicklow
Beautiful Laragh, in County Wicklow, is the site of the Native Woodland Trusts latest acquisition, 20 acres of land beside the Wicklow Way which will gradual develop into mature native woodland over the next few years. Although it won’t be open to the public until it is fully established there are lots of opportunities to get involved either by funding the planting of trees and native wildflowers or by volunteering to do the hard work. When it is finished passing walkers and cyclists – and even those touring by car – will be able to walk its footpaths and enjoy not only its trees and flowers but the birds, animals and insects that will come to live within its shade. The Trust has already established Farnaght Wood in County Leitrim and has worked with schools around the country, and particularly in the Dublin area, to plant small woodlands in school grounds.
New initiative for school gardens to be launched
The Informer
Green Scene Learn something new this autumn
September is back to school time for children and adults alike and there are a whole lot of new green educational opportunities this autumn. In the Greenhouse – the former home of ENFO on St Andrews Street – Cultivate are offering FETAC courses subjects such as Sustainable Tourism and Green Business, while the Organic Centre in Leitrim has its usual range of courses. Upcoming events at Sonairte include a Natural Health Day on September 12th and on Sunday
September will see the launch of a new initiative for school gardens that will see four of the country’s leading environmental centers coming together to offer packages that will help schools not only build organic food gardens but integrate the natural world into those gardens. The SEED initiative (Schools Environmental Education Development)
September 19th National Organic Week activities, will include free walks and talks in the garden, apple tastings, and free organic tea and coffee. And this year Apple Day has been expanded to Blackberry and Apple Day – a celebration of our wild food heritage along with the garden. Details of the Sonairte events and Autumn courses at www. sonairte.ie You can stay up to date with events at Sonairte and the Organic Centre by friending them on Facebook and Twitter
combines the resources of Sonairte, the Organic Centre, Irish Seed Savers and Kerry Earth Education to turn school gardens into Living Classrooms. Fully compatible with both the Green Schools Programme and the primary science curriculum the initiative will also help families make healthy eating choices. Watch this space for more details.
By Kathy Marsh, Sonairte
Green shoots...
Consultation? What consultation?
Blink and you’ll miss your chance to have your say about Ireland’s Biodiversity Plan. The original document came out in 2002 and there was an interim review in 2005 but this year EU rules say that we have to put a new plan in place. And that there has to be public consultation. But if you want to be consulted you’ll need to get your skates on because the Department of the Environment is going to publish the draft plan on Monday September 13th and your comments have to be in by Friday September 17th. That’s right. You have about four and a half days to read it, think about it, do any research you want to do, and get your comments back to them. Does it matter? Does a biodiversity plan matter to most of us? You might not think it is important, but if you want to drink clean water, breath clean air and live in cities where
the streets don’t flood then biodiversity matters. And that’s before we all get started on whether there’s going to be enough healthy food to go around and the joys of climate change. Our bogs provide some of the finest carbon stores on the planet and yet we go on destroying them. Do you know what an Ecosystem Approach is? It is worth finding out – in fact you might even find yourself taking an ecosystem approach to everyday life. So take a few minutes to think about what we all need to do to make biodiversity central to decision making in Ireland so that we can safeguard not just the birds and the bees but the human beings in the years to come – and maybe start by calling or emailing the Department and asking for more time to send in a considered response. The minister responsible is John Gormley, tel 01 888 2403, minister@environ.ie You can find the draft at http://www.npws.ie/en/ PublicationsLiterature/ NationalBiodiversityPlan/
Non-invasive fat reduction treatment What is iLipo? iLipo™ is the latest in laser lipolysis (the instant breakdown of the fat cells). The iLipo emits low levels of laser energy, the fat cell membranes are disrupted releasing intra-cellular fat. This causes the cell to lose its round shape by changing the permeability of the cell membrane. Triglycerides spill out from the broken cell membranes and are released into the interstitial space, where they are slowly transported through the body’s natural metabolic functions, with no adverse physiological effects and are used by the body as an energy source. How does it work? The treatment incorporates over 32 advanced lasers, which safely penetrate the skin and are absorbed in the fat cells. This stimulation opens pores in the fat cell walls allowing fat to escape through the pores. The fat cells then shrink and collapse and the excess is safely removed by the body’s natural metabolic process. During the treatment, laser pads are placed on the specific areas being targeted for 10 minutes each area with each session lasting just 20 minutes. The treatment is totally painless, completely safe and clinically proven. A pre-treatment questionnaire will be carried out to ensure the treatment is suitable for the client.
What results can I expect to see? Results can be seen immediately, with case studies showing typical losses of 2-4cm from the abdomen circumference following a treatment. How many treatments should I have? 8 treatments are recommended over a 4 week period (2 treatments per week), to achieve maximum results.
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The Informer
Garden Growing
A season to love and dread I both love and dread this time of year. All summer the garden, our outdoor room, has provided us with a vast array of food, gorgeous plants and flowers. This year in particular also gave us lots of great barbeque time. Inevitably this is sadly coming to an end and the garden has already started to wear it’s autumn clothes. Though autumn colours are glorious, we know the end of all that glorious growth is nigh. The morning light comes later and the evenings start to close down more quickly. It’s now that I start to sense winter and as a result I start to think about the months ahead. “Have we any oil, will the old boiler blow up this year, call the chimney sweep, get fuel in” etc. On the other hand, us gardeners know that there’s work to be done and now’s the time to plan ahead. That notion in itself helps to shorten the winter. Here are some autumn essentials.
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• Leaves are starting to fall and must be cleared from lawns • Now is the best time to take hardwood cuttings from your established shrubs • Trees, shrubs, climbers etc should be planted now to help root establishment • Perennials should now be divided which gives you two plants where there was one. • Sow grass seed on tired lawns as now is a growth spurt time • Start planning where you want to plant bulbs to flower next spring, but there’s no hurry
• • •
•
Tip of the month
Give yourself a pat on the back and take a bow for all your work and efforts his year. Whatever you have enjoyed from your perennial borders or your veg patch has required a lot of work. (Now get ready to start the process all over again). Life just keeps longing for itself…
• • •
just yet to plant. This can we done right up to the middle of November Have a look at your bird feeders. If they need re-placing, get new ones. Reduce feeding and watering Start to scarify the lawn if you have a moss problem. Do it in stages as it's very hard work. Mark an area and finish it before you move on to the next area Keep a good eye on any of your tender plants. Many were lost last year due to the extreme frost, including Fuchsia, for example, that were considered hardy. Horticultural fleece is cheap and easy to use if you don’t have a green house Take seeds for perennials that still have seed heads Empty and clean containers that were planted with summer bedding plants Divide oxygenating plants in ponds as they can get too big at this time of year
With
Gerry Norton Finally folks, if you need any information on gardening or if you have any tips or suggestions which I can pass on, please send them to me at livinglandescapes@eircom.net. I would be delighted to quote for any/all of your garden requirements from set-up organic vegetable plots to restoration of neglected gardens, design, planting and maintenance. No charge for initial visit and I will travel within reason.
Gerry Norton, Living Landescapes, 97 Church Avenue, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 Tel: 087-2462724 or email
livinglandescapes@eircom.net
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The Informer
Health Feature
Tired of being tired? Q10 can restore the energy of your youth
As we grow older, our energy levels drop. Some resort to ginseng, guarana and other energy boosters, but there is a far better alternative: a vitamin-like compound called coenzyme Q10. Have you lost the energy you had when you were younger? Do you tire more easily now, and do you find it difficult to motivate yourself to do go for your morning jog or work in the garden? Don’t fret, this physical decline is only natural. The good thing is you can do something about it. Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like compound that is the key to the energy production that takes place inside our cells. Decreasing levels of Q10 is what causes our energy levels to drop with age, a logical explanation to why age steals away our strength and stamina. Here is the good news: You can take a Q10 supplement and restore the energy levels you had years earlier. More than just energy The really intriguing part is that Q10 not only makes you feel more alert and restores that physical surplus you need to maintain an active lifestyle. A daily Q10 supplement even leads to changes such as: • Improved heart function • Lower blood pressure • Healthier sperm cells • Improved gum health These improvements clearly show that all parts of the body require energy in order to function properly. To put this in an even clearer context, cardiologists refer to chronic heart failure as an “energy-starved heart”, showing how important an adequate energy output is for undertaking proper functioning of the heart muscle. Q10 has actually been integrated in the medical treatment of chronic heart failure in hospitals all over the world, and in
some countries the compound is approved as a medical remedy for this purpose. A cure for gum disease? Another area where Q10 has gained a lot of attention is dentistry. Of course, proper oral hygiene and regular checkups is always first priority when it comes to preventing gum disease, but because of the positive results many dentists recommend supplements of Q10 to patients with infected gums. In many cases, the substance stops the bleeding and is also reported to make red, swollen and inflamed gums turn healthy and pink again in a matter of weeks or months. It may be taking it too far to call Q10 a cure for gum disease, but is most certainly seems to have an important role in the overall prevention of this common disease. Like being young again Those who are most likely to benefit from a Q10 supplement are those who may lack the substance, in the first place. Elderly people typically lack Q10, just as those with certain chronic illnesses like heart disease have a need for extra Q10. As soon as they start taking a daily supplement that can compensate for the loss, they will feel more energetic. That change often occurs within weeks. Even top-notch athletes who are not very old may use Q10 to boost their performance. One Finnish study conducted on cross-country skiers showed that they could train more intensively, compete better, and recover in a shorter amount of time when they were given Q10 supplements.
Natural energy
Q10 is – literally speaking - the most natural energy source you can find. It supports the body, improving virtually every imaginable function. In contrast, stimulants like ginseng tend to “stress” the body by giving it a kick. You grow accustomed to ginseng and may have to increase your intake to get the same effect. Consumers are normally advised to take a pause from ginseng every few months, especially if they experience problems like hypertension and increased heart rate that may occur as a result of the increased intake.
Statin users benefit from Q10 Q10 is of particular importance to people who take statin drugs to lower their cholesterol. Statins do not only lower synthesis of cholesterol, but at the same time they inhibit the production of Q10. Since role of Q10 in regulation of energetic metabolism and muscle metabolism is so vital, a deficit of Q10 is associated with increased risk of myopathy and other adverse effect.
Several clinical studies have shown benefit of Q10 supplementation in prevention or therapy of these adverse effects - especially in patients using higher doses of statins for longer period or in patients presenting with symptoms of statin associated myopathy (muscle pain, fatigue etc.)
Q10, on the other hand, does not cause such side effects. On the contrary, studies have actually demonstrated that Q10 supplements help to reduce hypertension and also support the heart muscle function. Another thing that is worth underlining is that Q10 supplementation does not affect the body’s own ability to produce the substance. Researchers looked in this by giving study participants Q10 capsules daily for nine months followed by a three-month withdrawal period. After the three months had passed, the body’s Q10 levels returned to their pre-supplementation level.
How to find the right Q10 preparation The formula that seems to be the most effective for optimal absorption and which has managed to document its efficacy to the point that international Q10 research has chosen this as their scientific reference is featured by: • Q10 dissolved in a vegetable oil matrix • A special heating of the mixture that allows the Q10 molecules to dissolve completely (in the body) at room temperature • Encapsulation in soft, light-protected gel capsules
10
All About Dublin (1)
The Informer Edited by Zoz
First hand History
Poverty and Potatoes!
John Adams visited Dublin sometime around 1815 as part of a world tour. His impressions of the city ('Flowers of Modern Travels') were published in 1816 in Boston ... From the general badness of the streets of Dublin, hackney coaches are more frequent in proportion than in London, and sedan chairs are every where as common as about St. James's. In the year 1749, it was computed, that in the city and liberties there were 2,000 ale-houses, 300 taverns and 12,000 brandyshops. At present, in this extensive place, there are but seven or eight coffeehouses, and they are resorted to for tea and coffee only, not like those in London, where dinners and suppers make a very convenient addition; nor are there above half a dozen chop-houses (serving steaks and chops); such accommodations being novel in Dublin. It is very extraordinary, that in this large and populous city, there should be such an almost total want of good inns for the entertainment of strangers and travellers. This defect obliges every body, who is acquainted with the place, to get into private lodgings as soon as he arrives, or to use the hotels lately set up; some of which are elegant. During my stay here, I was frequently presented with the picture of a late tourist, at the bottom of the chamber-vessels, with his mouth and eyes open, ready to receive the libation; and on enquiry
found, that even the utensil now is more frequently called by the name of a Twiss than any other, in contempt of the illiberal reflections of that gentleman, who was so hospitably received here: indeed hospitality holds its residence here; for it is customary for almost every gentleman, who dines with your friend, to ask you for a day; nay, they will sometimes invite the whole company to be of your party. This social custom is still very prevalent, though not so much, I am told, as it has been. With respect to drinking, I have been happily disappointed. The bottle is circulated freely, but not to the excess we have heard it was, and I of course dreaded to find. Common sense is resuming her empire. The practice of cramming guests is already exploded, and that of gorging them is daily losing ground. Wherever I have yet been, I was always desired to do just as I would choose; nay, I have been at some tables where the practice of drinking healths at dinner was entirely laid aside. In general, the outskirts of Dublin consist chiefly of huts, or cabins, constructed of dried mud, and mostly without either chimney or window; and in these miserable kind of dwellings, for the greater part of Ireland linger out a wretched existence. A small piece of ground is generally annexed to each, whose chief produce is potatoes; and on these roots and milk the common Irish subsist all the year round, without tasting either bread or meat, except perhaps at Christmas once or twice. What little the men can earn by their labour, or the women by their spinning, is generally con-
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Door To Door Delivery: The Sedan Chair consisted of a covered box carried on two poles, the entrances to grand houses were made large enough to enable chairs to be carried right up to the door.
sumed in whisky. Shoes and stockings are seldom worn by these beings, who seem to form a different race from the rest of mankind. Their poverty is far greater than that of the Spanish, Portuguese, or even the Scotch peasants, notwithstanding which, they wear the appearance of content. The indigence of the middling class of people is visible even in Dublin; yet from the most attentive and minute inquiries, I am confident that the produce of this kingdom, either of corn or of cattle is not above two thirds, at most, of what by good cultivation it might yield; notwithstanding which, the landed gentlemen, I believe, make as much, or
more of their estates, than any in the three kingdoms, while the lands, for equal goodness, produce the least. The consequences of this, with respect to the different classes, are obvious; - the landlords first get all that is made of the land; and the tenants for their labour, get poverty and potatocs.
This page was researched with the help of
12
All About Dublin (2)
The Informer Edited by Zoz
News from 1725... News reports from the Dublin Weekly Journal of 1725. Some of the spelling has been modernised and one or two items shortened but this is the news as it was read in Dublin's coffee houses nearly 300 years ago. Cobbs, half-Cobbs and Moidores were Spanish coins which were widely available in Ireland then.
On Wednesday last three men stood in the Pillory, one of them Mr. White had his ears cropped for forgery. The same day Elinor Sils was executed near St. Stephens Green, according to Law for the Murder of her Child - she confessed the fact at the place of execution and died a member of the Church of Ireland. (May 22 1725) Last week was exported from our Custom House aboard the William and James for London, seven Casks of Wood's Halfpence
and Farthings. (May 29)
On Wednesday last was executed, near St. Stephen's Green, William Molloy, for a Robbery in Golden Lane of Cloths to the value of 30 or 40 pounds. He confessed the fact at the place of execution. He was 19 years of age. (June 5)
On Tuesday last John Prat Esq., Deputy Vice Treasurer and Paymaster General of this Kingdom, was committed to the Four Courts Marshalsea, by order of the Government, on account, as 'tis said, of considerable deficiencies in the public money. (June 12)
A soldier in the Honourable Colonel Anstruther's Regiment of Foot, having been condemned by a Court Martial to be shot for desertion, was carried to the place of execution at Oxmantown
$
Green, but was pardoned and received into the regiment. (June 19) Lost at the Churn Inn in St. Thomas Court, a pair of Saddle Bags, in which were 13 Cobbs, 11 Half Cobbs, 6 ounces of burnt silver, 28 3 penny pieces, 2 gross of buttons, 3 or 4 Scotch shillings, and several other things. Whoever has found the said bags and goods and returns when to William Ashley at the Church aforesaid, shall have a Moidores reward. (June 26)
Last Monday the Corporation of Journeymen Tailors met at their Hall, and went in solemn Procession to St. John's Church, where they had a Sermon, after the Conclusion of which, they went two and two, to the King's Inns, where they had a splendid entertainment. The same night a gentleman of the aforementioned Honourable Society, was drinking at the Sign of the Bear in Winetavern Street, where some words happened to arise between the Drawer, and 'tis said, the woman of the house, another woman, and him, which soon created blows. Three to one, being great odds, they beat and bruised the Tailor in so barbarous a manner, that he died the next day. The three aforementioned were immediately apprehended, and carried before a Justice of the Peace, who committed two of 'em to Newgate, but let the woman of the house go, having got a sufficient bail for her appearance. (July 31) Whereas Bridget Mooley, alias Fitzwilliams, has eloped from her Husband on the 13th of this month. Now I Christopher Mooley do hereby give Notice to all persons whatsoever, that if they trust the said Bridget Mooley, on my Account, that I will not be answerable for any thing she shall contract; whereof all Person are, at their peril to take notice. Christopher Mooley. (Aug. 21) The Rev. Dean Swift is recovered of his late indisposition, and on Thursday last returned to this city. Yesterday morning as they were emptying a bog-house in Dame Street, an infant was found dead in it. (Oct. 9) On Wednesday last John McCoy, Thomas Barnett, Owen Gaughegan and John Smith were executed at St. Stephen's Green for the robbing of the Lord Chancellor's servant in Grafton Street some time ago. They all confess'd the robbery for which they were to suffer. (Oct 16) Cornet Poe, who robbed the Frize Monger's near Tallow Hill, was executed at Kilmainham. Great interest was made to save his life, but to no effect. There was also another executed with him for stealing 5 cows. (Oct. 23) Last week Capt. Jones, and one Mr. Nugent, son to the Hon. Col. Nugent, fought at Lucas's Coffee House, the latter was killed on the spot. (Capt. Jones was found guilty of Manslaughter a week later.) (Nov. 13) Stolen from Samuel Boyse, Esq., on Thursday the 11th of this month, one large round Silver Tea Pot, holding about a quart, with his Arms engraved thereon, which is 3 Scollop Shells and Bars underneath them, and on the lid is also engraved his crest, which is two snakes twisted together; one silver saucepan for cream, and the above-mentioned crest thereon. Whoever secures the said pot and saucepan, and brings them to the aforesaid Boyse in Chequer Lane, next door to Col. Titchburn's, shall have 2 Guineas Reward and no Questions asked. And all Goldsmiths and others are desired to stop the same. (Nov. 20) A Proclamation is published by the Lord Mayor of this City, giving licence to all persons, as well Foreigners as Freemen, to make and sell Bread, the Bakers having for some time past neglected to furnish the city. (Dec 11) On Tuesday morning a Chandlers Worke House in Dames Street took fire, by the carelessness of one of the servants, who left a candle burning, it was burnt to the ground, with a considerable quantity of soap, candles and tallow. (Dec 13) On Tuesday at the Bull and Bear Bating on the Strand, they both got loose and hurt several persons. The Bear seized one man by the leg and tore it to pieces. (January 1)
14
Informer Interview
The Informer
Presenting star quality Brian Ormond Where were you born? I was born in the Rotunda hospital in Dublin on the 16th of Aug 1979 Fondest childhood memory? I will always remember our family holidays to Connemara. All of the family would pack up the cars and head west. We used to rent small cottages that were part of a hotel. We spent our days fishing, playing football, tennis and, if the weather was good, we’d go swimming. I still love to head back there, beautiful part of the world. Are you in a relationship? I am engaged to the beautiful Pippa O’Connor. We got engaged last Christmas and plan to marry next June. What got you interested in the entertainment business? I remember sitting at home one day watching 'Neighbours', I turned to my mother and said that I would love to try acting. The following week I started in The Performing Arts School in Digges Lane. Do you remember your first time to appear on TV, explain? I think the first time I appeared on TV was in a short film called - The Barber Shop. It starred David Kelly and Peadar Lamb. I was a paper boy, and the only line I had was 'paper mister'. So funny looking back now. You reached Final 5 of RTE’s 'You’re A Star', how did that feel? It was amazing to get as far as I did in YAS. It was such a big show and to get that far was a great achievement. I learned so much during my time on the show, but to come back five years later and present the main show was even better. You were the only Irish act ever to reach the last ten acts in the UK’s 'Pop Idol'. How did you find Simon Cowell as a judge? I loved Simon and still think he’s great. I remember Pete Waterman not being that impressed by one of my performances but Simon disagreed with him and said “that performance was better than the original, I could sell a million records with you”. I couldn’t believe it, and I’m still waiting on the million records to sell!! Did Louis Walsh discuss managing you or asking you to get involved in any of his pop acts? Louis and I go way back, to the days of Popstars. I came 7th in the race to form the pop group Six. I’ll never forget the day Louis had to come and tell me I never made the band; he left me waiting two hours. I found it really hard to get over but it was character building and luckily I was his wild card the
Kevin O'Brien talks to one of the leading faces in Irish TV, Brian Ormond, about his life and what the future holds for him
following year in YAS. I also wish I auditioned for Westlife. I never would have left like Brian McFadden did! Delighted for the lads though, they work hard and are still very down to earth. Most embarrassing moment in your life? I was away on holiday with a few friends and Mark Sheen (The Script) was there also. I had one too many drinks and Mark brought me back to the hotel to sober up. Little did I know he had taken a few photos of me, and when we arrived back from holiday I went into Digges Lane Dance Studios and he had the pictures pinned to the walls of the building! So embarrassing. What type of music do you listen to on your IPod? I listen to everything! From pop to rock, country to old classics. It all depends on the mood I’m in. But when I find a song I like, I’ll play it over and over again. If you were not in the entertainment business what career path would you have taken? I was an electrician before I ever sang so I think I would have stayed with that. I left school after my junior cert to work for Kirwan Electrical. I loved it, but don’t think I’d ever go back to it. Do you think the public are bombarded now with too much reality TV show’s? TV changes all the time and I think once people watch the reality shows, they’ll always be there. So many people have their own show in the States. Pippa and I were asked if we would like to do a reality show for the lead up to our wedding, not sure if we will, but the fee could twist my arm. Pippa would love to do it but I’m not so sure. Who is the most famous person you have met to date? I have met a lot of famous people, Bono, Mickey Harte (have to say him as he’s my best man!!) but when I appeared on Top Of The Pops during my time in Pop Idol, I met Victoria Beckham, she was lovely. But I think Simon Cowell has become the biggest star! Who is the best celebrity you have worked with and why, explain? I think it has to be Keith Duffy, when I was presenting YAS and he was a judge - he was always up
By Kevin O'Brien for a laugh. I remember when I did YAS plus we dressed up as two women as the theme was 'sex change week'. Not everyone would do that but fair play to Keith, he did it for a laugh. Something tells me he enjoyed it too much!! Name three things you would take with you if you were to spend a month alone on a desert island? My mobile phone, my mobile phone and my mobile phone. I never go anywhere without it. Pippa always gives out as I’m always on it. Vodafone love me as my bills are always so high! I would be lost without it. If you could choose to have lunch with any three people (past or present) who would they be and why? I would love to meet Michael Buble; I think he is a fantastic act and an amazing singer. I think he comes across as a genuine guy and good fun. Angelina Jolie has to be another! She’s not a bad actress and if she had no personality, sure I could just look at her!
I would also like to have lunch with Donald Trump. I would get some advice on how to become a millionnaire and maybe convince him to back a few show ideas that I have. As one of Ireland’s most successful TV presenters, what does the future hold for you? A new set of teeth! I have just recovered from an operation on my gums and I have temporary teeth in at the moment, so hopefully in the next few months the new ones can go in and I’ll have the perfect smile! Thanks to Barry Buckley at Dental Options in Clane, amazing work! Work wise, I have just signed with an agency in London and I hope to get some work over there. I have meetings at the end of the month so, fingers crossed, you’ll see me on TV in the UK in the near future. What advice would you give anybody thinking of getting into the entertainment business today? I would say make sure you have great support from family and friends. It’s such a tough business but when and if you get the breaks, it’s the best business in the world. As the saying goes - 'there’s no business like show business'!!
(Depending on application)
16
Lesser known Dubs Robert James Graves was born in 1796 at Harcourt Street, Dublin. After a successful stint at Trinity College he spend three years travelling across Europe - studying from time to time at various schools. He was a skilled linguist, a fact which got him arrested for 10 days in Austria as a suspected German spy - they simply did not believe a foreigner could speak the language so well. While travelling to Sicily from Genoa the crew were preparing to abandon ship during a gale, when Graves took an axe to the lifeboat, declaring ""Let us all be drowned together. It is a pity to part good company". He then proceeded to repair the pumps with leather from his own shoes. On his return to Dublin in 1821 he set up his own medical practice and introduced some of the new treatments he had learned. This included 'bedside teaching', of which he said "mere walking the hospital must go. Students must examine patients for themselves under the guidance of their teachers, they must make suggestions as to diagnosis, morbid anatomy and treatment to their teacher who will discuss the cases with them." By all accounts Graves was a talented and forward-thinking teacher - giving his lectures in English rather than in Latin. He was president of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland in 1843 and 1844, was elected a fellow of the Royal Society of London in 1849.
All About Dublin (3) Robert James Graves
He introduced the practice of giving food and liquids to patients with fever instead of withholding nourishment - prompting him to suggest "Lest when I am gone you may be at a loss for an epitaph for me, let me give you one - He Fed Fevers." A statue of Robert James Graves stands in the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, erected in 1878. Robert James Graves died at his home at Merrion Square, Dublin, on 20 March 1853 and was buried in Mount Jerome Cemetery. Graves Disease is named after him. He invented, but did not patent, the second hand for watches.
A place in the city The coastal town of Malahide, situated on a shallow inlet of the Irish Sea, between Lambay Island to the north, and Ireland's Eye to the south, is one of the most pleasing places on the east coast. The town is admired for its attractive shop fronts, marina, hanging baskets and array of top class shops and restaurants. It is not surprising that it was designated a heritage town by Bord Failte. The name Malahide in Irish is Mullach Ide, 'Ide's Hilltop.' According to the Book of Invasions the earliest settlers in Malahide was a tribe called the Fir Domhnainn. Prior to the fifth century there was a small settlement here as excavations have unearthed tools, flint axes and arrowheads. St. Patrick is reputed to have addressed a large crowd in the locality in 432. Saint Paddy's Hill, near the town, is believed to have been named in memory of the occasion. Like so many other coastal areas of Dublin, Malahide was attacked by the Vikings in the tenth century. They developed a small settlemcnt here to strengthen their control of the Dublin coastline. The Vikings laid claim to the valuable fishing rights along the coast. In 1176, following the Anglo-Norman invasion, King Henry II rewarded many of his knights with large tracts of land. He granted 250 acres of land at Malahide to Sir Richard Talbot, for services to the Crown. Prince John, later King of England, confirmed this grant to Talbot and also conferred on him various privileges.
The Informer Edited by Zoz
Malahide
In 1649 during the parliamentary wars, Oliver Cromwell and his force attacked Malahide. For a period Cromwell resided at the castle and declared Lord Talbot an outlaw. Before departing Ireland, Cromwell gave the castle and estate to Miles Corbet, who resided there for seven years. With the Restoration the Talbots were granted repossession of the estate. Over the centuries Malahide developed into a medium sized fishing village, particularly noted for oysters. Up to the eighteenth century the town was still referred to as a small fishing port. The principal trade was the export of flour and meal and about 15,000 tons of foodstuffs were imported annually from Scotland. An excerpt from "Dublin's North Coast Drumcondra, Clontarf, Howth, Malahide", , with text by Arthur Flynn, and paintings by Margaret Flynn. Published by Cottage Publications, Price â‚Ź24.95.
18
Family Focus
The Informer
Ireland's Pregnancy The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide and Baby Fair
When Dubliners Jennifer Shaw and Claire Finnan car-pooled together to work every morning they used to listen to the radio, but when it broke they decided not to get it fixed but to spend the time brainstorming ways to make money instead. In late 2009 they came up with the idea of Buggy Bloom Enterprises ltd and earlier this year went on RTE’s Dragons’ Den and got four investors to help fund Ireland's Pregnancy and Baby Fair which takes place from October 9-10 in Dublin’s RDS. The show aims to bring the biggest names in the baby and family business all under one roof. On the day you can expect discounts on top products, special offers, free advice, competition prizes and a few surprise appearances! Jennifer and Claire’s top 10 reasons to visit the show are: 1 Your fairy godmothers have collected all the best, safest
By Lucy Taylor and most innovative products and services for you and your baby and put them under one roof. 2 Expert Advice from Ireland's leading professionals in maternity, paediatrics and baby products. 3 Demonstrations from the leading providers in the marketplace. 4 Entertainment for the whole family – from mammies and daddies to grandparents and older brothers and sisters. 5 Celebrity appearances. 6 Discounts and special offers from all our exhibitors. 7 Competitions for all the family. 8 Ample car parking. 9 Goodie bags. 10 Only €10 per adult and children go free! For more information check out www.pregnancyandbabyfair. ie
1 in 4 babies are currently born by caesarean in Ireland and experts say this figure is higher than it should be. A must-read for all expectant mothers, Tracy Donegan’s latest guide to birth in Ireland, The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide, explores the surge in the number of surgical births in Ireland and the growing number of women choosing VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean). The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide provides answers to the many overwhelming questions associated with caesarean birth and VBAC. “The World Health Organisation recommends a caesarean rate of no higher than 15%,” says Donegan, “but we’re seeing rates as high as 30% in some areas without improved outcomes for mothers and babies and at significant financial cost to the HSE. We also know that VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) is the healthiest option for mothers and babies without
health complications, but with medical claims sky-rocketing consultants are recommending repeat caesareans as the easy option.” The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide critically examines the risks and benefits of surgical birth and VBAC in an easy-to-read format for all expectant parents to consider when making informed decisions about their care. When surgical birth is unavoidable couples will learn what to expect during a caesarean, emotional and physical recovery tips, breastfeeding information and planning the next pregnancy. Couples trying for VBAC will learn how to navigate the mountains of research and ‘mis-information’ about normal birth after a caesarean. The Irish Caesarean and VBAC Guide is available to order from www.originalwriting.ie at e15.
One day antenatal class available in Dublin
A new one day antenatal class is available from Help Me To Parent and it covers the last trimester, labour and delivery, caring for baby after birth, your postnatal care and
when you get home. All courses are held in The Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin. They are a full day (Saturday) from 9.30am to 4.30pm and cost
is €180 per couple and includes parking, course material, refreshments and a light lunch. Check out http://www.antenatal-class.ie/
20
The Informer
Health Issues
Why you should not take Aspirin every day Q: I have heard that everyone should take an aspirin a day to help prevent heart attacks. Can I just take something available without prescription, like Disprin? A: Although this was advice often given in the past, there are a number of reason why you should not take aspirin every day on your own initiative. Aspirin affects the body in many ways. Most people are familiar with over the counter medicines like Anadin or Disprin, which are used to treat pain, inflammation and fever. Aspirin also has the effect of reducing blood clotting and so can help to prevent heart attacks and strokes in susceptible people (e.g. People who have already had a heart attack or stroke, or those with angina). However, the dose of aspirin usually used for the heart is substantially lower than that used as a painkiller. Taking aspirin every day is also quite harsh on the stomach and makes it considerably more like that the person taking it will develop bleeding in the stomach. For someone who has a high likelihood of a heart attack or stroke, the benefits of aspirin will usually outweigh the risks, but for most people, taking aspirin every day is more likely to be harmful. All over the counter aspirin drugs are only licensed for short term use for the treatment of pain or fever. If you would like to discuss daily aspirin therapy you should consult your doctor who will be able to prescribe it if it is appropriate for you.
Q: I have a rather embarrassing problem. I am a 26 year old woman and over the past few weeks I have developed a burning, itching sensation in my vagina. There is also quite a strong smelling discharge and it is painful when I go to the toilet. I think it may be thrush, but I'm embarrassed to ask about it in the pharmacy and I would prefer not to visit the doctor. I am on the pill, but I am not currently sexually active. Does this sound like thrush and if so, how could I have picked it up? I am not on any other medication although I was on a course a antibiotics a few weeks ago for a chest infection. What can I do to treat it? A: From what you have told me, it sounds like it is probably thrush that you have. However, there are some other conditions that can resemble thrush, so if you are unsure if it is thrush I would suggest that you visit your GP to have the diagnosis confirmed. Thrush is a fungal infection
caused by a yeast called Candida albicans. This yeast lives naturally in the vagina where it doesn't usually cause any problems. The body can generally keep its growth under control, but sometimes this control mechanism breaks down. So thrush isn't something that you “pick up”, but rather something that occurs naturally inside you that sometimes manages to grow out of control. Although this can occur for no apparent reason there are some situations that make this more likely to happen. Among these are stress, poor diet, antibiotics, the contraceptive pill, diabetes or a weakened immune system. The fact that you are on the pill and have recently taken antibiotics would tend to support a diagnosis of thrush. But like I said, some other conditions can resemble thrush and so if you are at all unsure you should visit your doctor. You mention you have a strong smelling discharge. Although thrush can increase the normal odour of the vagina, if this is unu-
sually unpleasant it may indicate a condition called bacterial vaginosis which needs to be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Thrush can generally be easily treated using over the counter medicines. I usually recommend Canesten Combi. Although most of the symptoms of thrush occur on the outside of the vagina, the infection is primarily on the inside surface. Canesten Combi contains an antifungal cream to help with the external symptoms and an anti-fungal pessary (like a tablet for the vagina) which is inserted to kill the yeast inside the body. Thrush can also be treated with tablets taken by mouth although at present these are only available with a prescription. An uncomplicated thrush infection should generally clear up after a few days treatment, although I generally recommend continuing to use the cream for about 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared. If there is no improvement within about 4 – 5 days you will definitely need to visit the doctor.
Ask the Pharmacist With Eoin Meany
Eoin Meany works as a pharmacist in McCabe's Pharmacy, Ridgewood Avenue, Swords. If you have a question you would like answered for next issue, please send it by email to eoin@mccabespharmacy.com or by post to McCabe's Pharmacy, Ridgewood, Swords, Co. Dublin.
Disclaimer: The advice you have been given by the pharmacist should not be regarded as a clinically accurate diagnosis of any disease or a guarantee that a particular medicine is safe for you to take. The advice given is based solely on the limited amount of information provided and so should not be regarded as a substitute for a face to face consultation with a pharmacist, doctor or other health professional who is personally familiar with your medical history.
Ask for Jane!
22
The Informer
Health & Beauty
Have younger looking hands! A lot of us take care of our faces, but forget about our aging hands. Next to your face, your hands are probably the most visible parts of your body. The earliest signs of aging will show on your hands. The skin on
the back of your hands is extremely delicate. This skin is very, very thin, as there is almost no fat under it at all, which is why the veins are so visible. As we grow older, any fat that is there lessens and the skin
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becomes dry and loose, exposing the veins even more. As if that’s not enough, we begin to develop ugly age spots and sunspots (also known as liver spots). Your hands need extra care because they’re always doing so much for us and, unfortunately, so often taken for granted. As pictures of Madonna (52) show, you may have the body and face of someone ten years younger, but neglected hands are a dead age giveaway! But it's not just Madonna with ageing hands. Take a look at the hands of 'A list 'stars that have also neglected their hands - Angelina Jolie, Cameron Diaz, Terri Hatcher to name just a few. It's never too late to start caring for your hands as they respond quickly to a little TLC,' So young women - start taking care of your hands now! Older women - It is never too late to stop the damage and make your hands look younger. Knowing how to maintain your hands as you age is the best way
to make sure they look their best and that you, in turn, look your youngest. Wear a high SPF sunscreen or sun block on the back of your hands, The sun causes 90% to 95% of the wrinkles, lines, discolorations and more to our bodies and hands. Wear rubber gloves lined with cotton when your hands are in contact with harsh soaps, detergents, or chemicals.
Use a mild pH soap, like Dove, when washing your hands. Exfoliate. Use a grainy scrub on backs of hands twice a week to reveal glowing skin. Moisturize the hands, cuticles, and nails. Have a salon treatment specifically for ageing hands like the Collagen Remodeling for hands. This is a Microdermabrasion and Laser Photo Skin Rejuvenation
treatment to help give your hands a youthful glow! Next month I will be answering any beauty questions you may have, just email Linda@ rathgarlaserandbeauty.ie with your question and I will answer as many I can! Linda, Senior Therapist Rathgar Laser & Beauty Clinic 01-4976434 www.rathgarlaserandbeauty.ie
A free app that saves you money! Have you ever spent countless hours online trying to get the best deal?. Have you ever purchased something online and wondered if you really got the best price?. MyShoppingGenie will search the internet and compare prices for you to find the best deals available at the time. The MyShoppingGenie application is an easy-to-use, FREE tool. Once you have downloaded it, simply go to your favourite search engine to search and shop the way you normally would and the app will automatically begin searching the internet to find the lowest prices. A tool bar will appear, organising and displaying all the links to the websites with best prices for you to quickly and easily view and choose from. The MyShoppingGenie toolbar only appears while you are searching for products to buy and stays hidden otherwise. It does an amazing job of locating the best deals so that you don't have to spend all of your time searching and comparing prices for yourself. Remember you can download this app for free at www. myshoppinggenie.com/frosty
e your hands
Make sure your finances are fit for purpose
l be answerestions you mail Linda@ uty.ie with will answerIt is important that we are regu-
larly reviewing our personal finances and insurances to ensure they remain fit for purpose herapist and value for money. eauty Clinic There are three main areas where we believe individuals 34 ndbeauty.ie should consider reviewing cover to ensure they are comprehensively insured against unexpected and are planning for life after working Pensions Many individuals have not made sufficient provision for their retirement. Also those who have existing pension arrangements may not be aware of the charges they are paying. Charges of in excess of 5% of contributions made are not uncommon. For individuals who have recently left employment it is important to be aware of your pension entitlements when leaving. Pension benefits can be transferred into pension vehicles in your own name where you can track and review performance without having to contact your old employer. This includes Pensions from the UK Income Protection How would you cope financially if you were unable to work due to illness or injury?. Most of us need to work to pay the bills. The mortgage, credit cards, electric, phone, loan repayments, school costs and the rest. The bills don't stop arriving - even if we are very sick. Without a regular income, most of us would struggle to get by. If you are ill for a short period, you may be able to cope by dipping into your savings. When you think of insuring your largest assets the main things that come to mind will be your Life, Home and Car however one of your greatest asset is your ability to earn an income. With state benefits at â‚Ź10,192 per annum a lot of sacrifices
would have to be made if you lost the ability to earn an income. A common misconception is that my employer will look after me! Is that really the case? Certain employers may pay some sick pay for a time but after that you could be on your own. If you are self-employed, then no work means no income. Few of us could cope with being off work for more than 6 or 9 months. An individual earning â‚Ź40,000 will earn over â‚Ź1,700,000 million in their lifetime. Now that is your greatest asset. Life Assurance/Mortgage Protection Life Assurance has come down signficantly in recent years due to competition in the market. Life Assurance rates have come down in the last number of years due to a more competitive marketplace. In addition to this individuals who took out life cover through their banks when taking out their mortgage may not have received the most competitive product on the market. It is important to ensure then when reviewing your cover that you use an advisor who can research all providers on the market to ensure you are getting best value for money. In these recessionary times it can be possible to save significant amounts on the costs of the above products without compromising on the level of cover. SmartQuotes.ie research all market providers and will offer up to a 70% discount on the monthly cost for the first twelve months for certain protection products and offer low cost pension solutions. Why not call us today on 016853813 or go online to www. smartquotes.ie for further details
24
The Informer
Entertainment
The Rocky Horror Show comes to the Grand Canal Theatre
Richard O’Brien’s outrageous classic The Rocky Horror Show is continuing to thrust its way across an extensive tour this year with Olivier Award winner David Bedella starring as the celebrated Frank ‘n’ Furter. The Grand Canal Theatre are proud to announce its arrival on 11th – 16th October. During the Irish shows, the Narrator will be played by Christopher Biggins, who won the heart of the nation on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. It's a riot!
This irresistible riot has seduced audiences all over the world for more than thirty years - so whether you’re a die-hard fan or a Rocky Virgin, it’s time to celebrate this infamous adventure like never before. Brush up on those pelvic thrusts, squeeze into that corset and slip back into those killer stilettos because the world’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll musical is
back with a vengeance! The worldwide phenomenon continues with productions now in preparation as far afield as Iceland and Korea! The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of engaged sweethearts Brad and Janet who are forced to seek refuge in a castle full of the
maddest, baddest and sexiest group the world has ever seen. Featuring the timeless classics ‘Sweet Transvestite’, ‘Dammit Janet’ and ‘The Time Warp’, this is the craziest party you’ll ever go to, so select your seats, dress to impress and get ready for Rocky!
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Graham Connor's Movie Advice Legion HHHHH
Scott Pilgrim Vs The World
HHHHH Starring Paul Bethany, Tyrese Gibson, Adriane Palicki, Lucas Black and Denis Quaid.
Starring: Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Rory Kulkin
My my my, what could have been. A random bunch of strangers find themselves caught in an isolated roadside diner as Armageddon unfolds the day before Christmas Eve. All hope seems lost until a heavily armed stranger emerges from the desert. Legion came with one of the slickest trailers you will ever see but unfortunately the promise of a kick-ass biblical shoot ‘em up falls completely flat in a vacuous 90 minutes. Legion’s concept is strong, it’s the end of the world and an army of angels storm earth but, here’s the twist, the angels are the bad guys. It seems this was director, Scott Parker’s, only idea and hoped that with some shoddy action sequences the audience wouldn’t notice the lack of plot. The cast battle valiantly and would make you wonder if the movie they thought they were making was the one that hit our DVD store shelves. Advice: Avoid.
Scott Pilgrim Vs The World is a visually stunning and often hilarious film that zooms and zings from one quirky set piece to another with great gusto and imagination. Of the great films this year, Scott Pilgrim has stolen a march and raced to the top of the table. Scott Pilgrim is a 23-year old guitarist with a band going nowhere. Scott falls for Ramona Flowers, a mysterious new girl in town, without realising that, to date her, he must defeat her seven evil ex-boyfriends. Cue all kinds of raucous action and hilarity. Scott Pilgrim Vs The World is an amazing, inventive film, based heavily on the Japanese style of comic book and videogame that influenced the graphic novel of its origins. Michael Cera is at his quirky best and his central performance, along with Rory Culkin’s entertaining turn; make this the best film of the year so far. Advice: Go see it…twice!
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The Informer
Dublin Distractions
Are Ya Havin' A Laff? Talking clock While proudly showing off his new apartment to friends, a college student led the way into the den. "What is the big brass gong and hammer for?" one of his friends asked. "That is the talking clock," the man replied. "How's it work?" "Watch," the man said and gave the gong an ear shattering bang with the hammer. Suddenly, someone screamed from the other side of the wall, "Knock it off, you idiot! It's two o'clock in the morning!" Wait for it... A man comes home from an exhausting day at work, plops down on the couch in front of the television, and tells his wife, "Get me a beer before it starts." The wife sighs and gets him a beer. Fifteen minutes later, he says, "Get me another beer before it starts." She looks cross, but fetches another beer and slams it down next to him. He finishes that beer and a few minutes later says, "Quick, get me another beer, it's going to start any minute." The wife is furious. She yells at him "Is that all you're going to do tonight? Drink beer and sit in front of that TV? You're nothing but a lazy, drunken, fat slob, and furthermore ..." The man sighs and says, "It's started ..."
Misunderstanding Two old men, one a retired professor of psychology and the other a retired professor of history are talking. The history professor said to the psychology professor, "Have you read Marx?" To which the professor of psychology said, "Yes, I think it's the wicker chairs." Good news? An artist asked the gallery owner if there had been any interest in his paintings. "I've got good news and bad news," the owner replied. "The good news is that a gentleman inquired about your work and wondered if it would appreciate in value after your death. When I told him it would, he bought all fifteen of your paintings." "That's wonderful!" the artist exclaimed, "What's the bad news?". With concern, the gallery owner replied, "The guy was your doctor." Too much trouble Two bachelors sat talking, their conversation drifted to cooking. "I got a cookbook once," said one, "but I could never do anything with it." "Too much fancy work in it, eh?" asked the other. "You said it. Every one of the recipes began the same: 'Take a clean dish."
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Lucan News
A date for the diary – Lucan Festival 2010
This year's Lucan Festival is set to be bigger and better than ever, with a wide range of activities to suit all ages and all interests from Saturday September 18th right through to Sunday September 26th. The majority of events are free, while support for paid events would be greatly appreciated to ensure that the festival continues to go from strength to strength. Music lovers are in for a treat over the week, with a fundraising ceili night in Westmanstown Sports Complex at 8pm on the 18th kicking off the festival. A Battle of the Bands event on the 20th, a performance by Lucan Electro-Acoustic Orchestra at
The Informer
Sarsfield GAA on the 25th, and gig marquee on main street with a wide variety of acts on the 26th are just some of the musical events on offer, with choral performances and recitals also taking place. There will be an on-going exhibition by local artists at Festival Gallery in the Douglas Newman Good building on main street throughout the week, and a wide variety of talks and walks of historical interest. Culture vultures Culture vultures can also look forward to poetry recitals, an evening of storytelling, and performances by the Lucan Dramatic
Society throughout the week. The Cinemobile will show feel-good favourites such as 'Mamma Mia!' and ' The Commitments', while the Junior Treasure Hunt, the Family Day on the 26th, and the return of last year's hit Wildlife and Reptile Zoo in the Village green are sure to keep younger festival goers entertained. Expanding The programme of events has been consistently expanding in the run up to the festival, check out the timetable of confirmed events and times here: http://lucanfestival.wordpress.com/
By Cathy Geagan
Lucan In Brief... Celebrate 10 Years of Lucan Disability Action Group
To celebrate ten years of the excellent service provided by the Lucan Disability Action Group, a dinner and dance event will take place on October 16th at the Lucan Spa Hotel. For a great night out, come along and enjoy a three course meal, a trivia competition, live band and music to dance the night away to – with tickets costing just €25, this is a recession busting deal as well as a wonderful anniversary celebration! LDAG are a wonderful local resource (with free membership) providing: • An affordable and accessible transport service for people with disabilities 7 days a week • Self drive cars to be driven by wheelchair users or their families • Maintenance help– light DIY help around the home • Personal Assistants and Note-takers for students in third level education. Contact on 01 610-047, by email at info@ldag.ie, or visit their website www.ldag.ie.
Lucan Active Retirement
The Lucan Active Retirement Club, fresh back from their summer break, meet in St. Andrew’s Parish Centre, Lucan village, every Thursday from 11.30am to 2.30pm. New members always welcome (male and female).
Masterpieces on show at St Mary's
A look at the wonder, context and creators of some of the Western World's greatest art works. At 8pm in St. Mary's Parish Centre, on the last Thursday of each month, starting on Thursday 30th Sept 2010.
Lucan Meals on Wheels - Drivers Wanted
If you can spare 2 – 3 hours every 2nd week to deliver lunches, please contact the group on 085-1548264.
AA Meetings
St. Mary’s Parish Centre, Lucan Road, Friday Nights 8.30pm. For further information contact 01-8420700, or email gso@alcoholicsanonymous.ie
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news@informer.ie