Malahide

Malahide GAZET TE FREE

OCTOBER 18, 2012 Find us on

M A L A H I D E • P O R T M A R N O C K • K I N S E A LY • C L A R E H A L L INSIDE: Welcome to a new era with your glorious new-look Gazette

IN PRINT: Fledgling author is helping to celebrate What Truly Matters Page 2

Fabulous taste: A slice of castle cafe culture Hurling:

St Sylvester’s inter hurlers march on Page 31

LOTS OF LOCALS turned up for delicious food at the Malahide Castle’s new Avoca store, foodhall and cafe in the grounds of the beautifully redeveloped castle and grounds recently.

With its official opening set for this week, the castle was welcoming lots of people to the cafe at the courtyard in advance of the big opening day.

Pictured at the event are Emily Dowling, Fiona O’Reilly, Trish Oglesby and Linda Elebert. Picture: Una Williams See Gallery on Pages 6-7

Football:

Malahide Utd undone by late Bluebell strike Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES......................6 DUBLIN LIFE...................11 OUT&ABOUT ..................17 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................27

Planning move may end school’s long wait Permanent building a step closer for Plunkett’s as council gives go-ahead

 NATALIE BURKE

ST OLIVER Plunkett’s National School in Malahide could soon realise a 12-year-old dream after the school came a step closer to

securing a new permanent school building.

Fingal County Council recently granted planning permission for a new replacement school building to be constructed.

Located on Grove Road, the school is one of the largest primary schools in the country.

T he news was welcomed by principal Claire O’Connor.

“We are terribly excited.

We’re really looking forward to a lovely fit for purpose, modern, bright school in the centre of the community. It is what the children deserve.”

Full Story on Page 2

2 malahide Gazette 18 October 2012

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Winner Fledgling author gets into print

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Anne Farrell with author Sheila Flanagan at the launch of Celebrating What Truly Matters Powers Irish Whiskey Short Story Collection

Helping to celebrate What Truly Matters A Malahide author is helping celebrate What Truly Matters this month after she was published as part of an anthology of short stories from around Ireland.

Anne Farrell from Malahide is one of 50 writers from across the country chosen to feature in the collection after her story was selected from thousands of submissions.

Celebrating What Truly Matters is the second anthology of short stories of the same name compiled in aid of the

 natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) by Powers Irish Whiskey.

Through a Pane of Glass is the tale penned

by Anne, which tells the story of the different birds visiting a woman’s back garden as she watches and waits for an important phone call.

The collection of short stories covers an array of subjects, from love lost and won, ties that bind, mellower moments in time and the warmth of family and friendships.

The theme of Celebrating What Truly Matterswas inspired by a popular campaign for Powers which ran in the 1980s, based on conversations and short stories.

The anthology is the first time Anne has been published and, speaking to the Gazette, she said she was delighted to have her story included.

“It was the first time I have ever had anything published, and I was delighted when I heard.

I’ve entered other competitions and got nowhere and, although I don’t do it much, now and again I’ll sit down and write a story.”

Success

After her recent success, Anne says she hopes it will inspire her to write more.

“There’s a book, they say, in everyone, and I wouldn’t mind having a bestseller someday.

It would be hard work but one of these days, maybe.”

Powers ran a nationwide competition with the Irish Times Magazine in spring 2012. The competition attracted over 4,000 entries to feature in the book.

Celebrating What Truly Matters Powers Irish Whiskey Short Story Collection (€9.99) is available to buy from Easons and Dubray books nationwide and online from www.hospicefoundation. ie and www.powerswhiskey.com.

Village water feature gets pebble surround The Village Green in Malahide received some improvements recently when the water around the base of the Village Green statue was replaced with pebbles.

The water quality of

the feature had become a cause of concern to local residents who worried that the lack of clean water could be harmful to children and animals.

The new pebble surround will replace the water at

the statue, making for a more attractive and practical solution for the area.

The improvement was welcomed by Councillor Anthony Lavin (FG), who said the water was

an unattractive feature in the centre of the village.

“If it wasn’t maintained on a regular basis, it would become discoloured and would smell. Litter was being

blown into the water, and it was just filled with rain water. It wasn’t flowing through the statue, it was just stagnant, so I do believe the pebble work will be a huge improvement,” he said.

18 October 2012 malahide Gazette 3

charity

baldoyle: renovation project to help maximise services and space

Students raise €2k

Library to get €125k for works  natalie burke

Next year will see Baldoyle Library receive €125,000 worth of renovations, in a project that will extend both the main library and the children’s area.

The proposed works to the local library are expected to commence during 2013, and the project will be funded from sums accrued in the annual budgets of 2010, 2011 and again this year.

The announcement was made at a recent council meeting, where Fingal County Council confirmed the proposed works would include an

We have 135,000* readers each week *based on standard industry measurements

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enhancement of the junior library, as well as the re-organisation of the internal space.

The announcement was welcomed by Mayor of Fingal, Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), who said he was “delighted” to hear the works would be commencing shortly.

“I’m very aware that it is absolutely necessary, especially in [Baldoyle] library where there is a high number of wheelchair users and in the current situation, there just isn’t enough room, especially around the children’s library section.”

Yvonne O’Brien, senior

executive librarian of the Libraries Division at FCC said the estimated cost of the work involved comes to a total of €125,000.

“In terms of layout, the plan is to link the existing junior library to the offices downstairs and take in what has been a void area. We would probably effectively double the size of the library downstairs.

“I’m currently working with architects to try and maximise the space we have within the resources that we have at the moment. Hopefully, it will be a greater enhancement of the services and the library itself,” she said.

All smiles: Tesco celebrate the best in Ladies Gaelic Football niamh mcevoy of St Sylvester’s Ladies GAA is all smiles as she is presented with a jersey from Paul Healy, Tesco Clarehall store manager, in honour of their player of the match performance in the Tesco Homegrown Dublin Intermediate Championship Final.

Tesco are delighted to again sponsor the Dublin Club Championships this year, alongside their existing sponsorships within Ladies Gaelic Football.

Students from Malahide Community School raised €2,000 for the Dublin Simon Community recently when a group of transition year students took part in the charity’s popular annual fun run.

Forty students from transition year painted their faces and took part in the annual five kilometer fundraising event, which was held on Saturday, October 6.

More than 3,000 participants took part in this year’s run, which is now in its 29th year.

The Dublin Simon Community is a voluntary organisation working with people who are homeless in Dublin. Last year, students from Malahide Community School donated sleeping bags to help the cause.

4 MALAHIDE GAZETTE 18 October 2012

FASTNews

EVENT Castigliano’s collection a first

Team Hope calling on schools to participate in Shoebox Appeal TEAM HOPE is calling on local schools, families and businesses in Malahide to take part in their 2012 Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

Team Hope aim to deliver 195,000 shoeboxes from Ireland into the hands of needy children in Africa and Eastern Europe whose families typically live on less than €1 per day.

“Simply root out a spare shoebox, wrap it with Christmas paper and fill with gifts for a child to write, wash, wear or wow and attach €4 to cover transport costs,” explained Niall Barry, Team Hope executive director.

The closing date for receipt of shoeboxes is November 12.

Visit www.teamhope.ie or ring 01 294 0222 for more information.

Society’s new series begins

Malahide salon wins awards

THE Malahide Historical Society Winter 2012 / Spring 2013 series began last Wednesday, October 10, with a talk on The Poor Harvest of 1946 and the Snow of 1947.

There will be a different talk once a month, with the next one taking place on November 14. For more information, visit www.malahide heritage.com

ALLURE Hands and Feet in Malahide received a brace of awards at this year’s Irish Nail Championships.

The nail salon won in the category of Manicure, as well as in the category of Irish Manicurist of the Year 2012.

The salon came in second place in the category of Permanent Polish.

Susan Craddock with Caroline Castigliano (right), one of Kate Middleton’s shortlisted wedding dress designers. Picture: Una Williams

Royal favourite drops into bridal boutique  NATALIE BURKE

A MALAHIDE bridal boutique recently welcomed one of Kate Middleton’s shortlisted wedding dress designers, when it played host to internationally renowned Caroline Castigliano.

The Courtyard for Brides was the first bridal boutique in the world to host a visit from the acclaimed British designer.

Having opened just 20 months ago, The Courtyard for Brides was also the first-ever store to wholesale the designer’s

collection.

On Saturday, September 29, Caroline Castigliano showcased her 2013 collection, with brides-to-be flocking from across Ireland to take part in the day.

“It was a fantastic event and it was very exciting for us to have Caroline here,” said Susan Craddock, owner of The Courtyard for Brides.

“She is a really highend English designer who has now gone international, and her profile would be very wellknown with Irish brides.

She was even shortlisted

as one of the designers for Kate Middleton’s wedding dress last year.”

“We had an extraordinary turnout of bridesto -be, and we were booked out within 12 hours which was super.

Caroline Castigliano is all about silhouette and luxury fabrics, as well as creating the perfect shape. She just makes a bride look the best that she can be.”

According to Susan, the recent visit was a great event to have in the Malahide store, and is a boost for the growing reputation of the young

boutique.

“I got some fantastic feedback from the guests on the day and most of them bought, so it was terrific. A lot of the brides had already fallen in love with the Castigliano dresses that we had here, so to have her come over and launch her 2013 collection was just fantastic.”

Affordable luxury

“We’ve always tried to [market the boutique as] an affordable luxury so the brides get a full package. We don’t just stock Castigliano designs, we

cater for everybody, but the whole idea is you come in to the store, you feel the luxury whether you pay €1,500 or €4,000 for the dress, you’ll get the same treatment and the same experience.”

Susan opened the boutique just under two years ago, following a career working in retail, fashion and styling, and says the store is growing in its success. “It [grew out of a] talk over coffee. [There was] a niche in the market that really encouraged me to pull it off, and it’s really working.”

Speedpak commends employees’ efforts at their graduation AN enterprise providing employment and retraining for the longterm unemployed across North Dublin last week celebrated the graduation of 17 of its employees.

Minister for Research and Innovation, Sean Sherlock, awarded the employees of Speedpak full FETAC level 4

Awards, the equivalent of the Leaving Certificate, which were obtained through Speedpak’s Workplace Accreditation Model (WAM).

Speedpak provides outsourced contract packing and support services to manufacturing and in 2010 was awarded €100,000 and two years’ business

mentoring through the Arthur Guinness Fund.

Opportunity

Speaking at the event last week, Minister Sherlock commended the initiative saying: “I would like to congratulate all of the people receiving their awards and commend them for their efforts.

Speedpak is an excellent

initiative that provides opportunities for unemployed individuals” “It provides an opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience, relevant knowledge and skills within a working environment and brings people closer to the job market,” he continued.

John Murphy, Chief Executive of Speedpak,

also congratulated the graduates and said that the key aspect of WAM is to provide employment.

“At Speedpak, we don’t employ people to contract, pack and make rosettes; we contract, pack and make rosettes to employ people so that they can develop these vital workplace skills,” he said.

18 October 2012 malahide Gazette 5

council Permission granted for replacement school

Plunkett’s close to new building after long wait  natalie burke

St Oliver Plunkett’s National School in Malahide could soon be realising a 12-year-old dream as the school takes one step closer to securing a new permanent school building.

Fingal County Council recently granted planning permission for a new replacement school building to be constructed.

This decision comes after a 12-year wait, and will be a welcome move for the local community.

Located on Grove

Road, St Oliver Plunkett’s School is one of the largest primary schools in the country, catering for 928 pupils, 50% of which are educated in prefabs.

The proposed plans for the school could see the existing building replaced by a state-of-the-art twostorey facility, with 35 mainstream classrooms, new hard and soft play areas and wheelchair accessible ramps, as well as on-site parking for 60 cars.

The news was welcomed by principal Claire O’Connor, who said the

school body is delighted to see the planning permission passed.

“We are terribly excited. We have been looking for the new school since the year 2000. All our fifth and sixth class children are in substandard prefabs which are in an awful state. They were meant to be temporary but have been there for a long time.

“We’re really looking forward to a lovely fit-for-purpose, modern, bright school in the centre of the community.

It is what the children

schools: dealing with litter

A Green Flag for St Nicholas of Myra

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) welcomed the news of a new permanent buidling for St Oliver Plunkett’s National School in Malahide

deserve,” she said.

“We thank everybody for their support and would continue to look for support for the next stage. This is a dream and we want to realise it.”

Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF) also welcomed the news but said

it is just the first hurdle towards the much needed development.

“The school have been working very hard to get [the plans] to this stage, so we’re really pleased that permission has been granted. However, we understand that this will

now be taken to An Bord Pleanala. It’s a pity, but people have a right to object if they see fit,” he explained.

“The school is badly needed, and anyone who looks at it will see that, but we are taking one hurdle at a time.”

St Nicholas of Myra National School in Kinsealy put their best foot forward earlier this month when their first ever Green Flag for the environment was raised.

The flag was awarded to the primary school by Green Schools Ireland for their achievements in dealing with litter and waste, as part of the An Taisce Green Schools programme.

Mayor of Fingal Cian O’Callaghan (Lab) was on hand to help raise the flag and, during a speech to the pupils, parents and teachers of the school, congratulated the school body for their contribution towards their achievement.

The flag was awarded on Wednesday, October 10, at a special ceremony held in the school, which was also attended by the Green Schools coordinator, Trish Kennedy.

The Green Schools Ireland programme is an international environmental education programme operated and co-ordinated by An Taisce in association with local authorities throughout the country.

The programme provides an award scheme to local schools in an effort to promote long-term, whole-school action in order to help the environment. Once a school is awarded their initial Green Flag, it can then be built upon with new environmental friendly themes which include the subjects of energy, water, travel, biodiversity and climate change, among others.

The theme of litter and waste is chosen as the first project as it encourages a sense of personal pride and responsibility in children.

6 malahide Gazette 18 October 2012

gazetteGALLERIES

Leslie Murry and Sharon King

Emily Dowling, Fiona O’Reilly, Trish Oglesby and Linda Elebert. Pictures: Una Williams

Laoighse Carley and Hugh Dunne

Isabelle Thornton and Stefan Rossini

Sharon Symes and Tracy Corbett

Owner Simon Pratt, with his sisters, Vanessa and Amanda

Lisa Travers and Eileen Fitzgibbon

Mark, Claire and Lauren Cooney

18 October 2012 malahide Gazette 7

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So much choice at the food counter

Pauline Duddy, Malahide Golf Club; Vivienne Cosgrave, lady captain, Castle GC; Rachel Duddy, Malahide GC, and Ciaran Nevin, sponsor

It’s tee time: Enjoying a mother and daughter golf competition

T

he fourth annual Mother And Daughter Open Foursomes competition in Castle Golf Club took place recently, which saw more than 120 ladies gathering to tee off together. Sponsored by Ciaran Nevin Hair and Beauty, the event once again saw impressive competition on the day, with Malahide’s Pauline and Rachel Duddy winning as the Queens of the Castle event, with a first place score of 34 points.

Kathy Smith and Grainne Nangle

heritage: A slice of cafe culture at Malahide Castle

Celebrating the Avoca additions A

S THOUGH Malahide Castle’s reopening wasn’t reason enough to visit, lots of locals turned up for delicious food at the castle’s new Avoca store, foodhall and cafe in the grounds of the beautifully redeveloped castle and grounds recently. With its official opening set for this week, the castle was welcoming lots of people to the cafe at the courtyard in advance of the big opening day. Locals tucked into some delicious snacks and meals to restore energy levels with which to take in the historic environs. All were agreed that the Avoca additions provided yet another reason to visit the popular site.

Regardless of prizes, everyone enjoyed the great day’s sport Chefs Leo, Ger, Claire, Greg, Andy and Andy

8 malahide Gazette 18 October 2012

FastNews

Cullen forced to close Renault dealerships Well-known businessman Bill Cullen was forced to close his Swords-based car dealership last week, after Ulster Bank reportedly claimed back an estimated €12 million from his company, Glencullen Holdings.

Cullen, who has been in the motor industry for 55 years, closed both his Renault dealership at Airside Motor Park in Swords, as well as the dealership at Liffey Valley Motor Mall. Following the announcement of the closures, a statement on behalf of the entrepreneur blamed the “poor state of the motor industry, with customer confidence at an all-time low”.

Glencullen Holdings’ deal with Renault car manufacturers officially ended in August, meaning that the company had lost the right to sell Renault cars and parts.

The Wool Shop An Inspector to offer crochet Calls to classes for Portmarnock The Portmarnock beginners Musical and THE Wool Shop at Malahide Alterations will be hosting crochet classes for beginners in the coming weeks.

The classes, which run for a six-week term, will begin on Wednesday, October 24, from 6.30 to 8pm.

Classes cost €65 per person, and needles and yarn will be supplied. For more information, call 01 845 3346.

Dramatic Society have announced plans for their autumn production, which is set to be staged in the Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre from November 7 to November 10.

An Inspector Calls

by JB Priestly will be performed at 8pm each evening. For more information, visit www. portmarnockmds.net.

A love of the landscape: Fingal launches book on county geological heritage the publication of Islands, Coast and Quarries: The Geological Heritage of Fingal was recently launched by the Mayor of Fingal, Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), in the White Sands Hotel Portmarnock. The book, by Matthew Parkes (above), Aaron Clarke and Sarah Gatley, explores Fingal’s geological heritage using data gathered during a 2007 audit of 21 sites of geological and landscape importance in Fingal.

The book is an Action of the Fingal Heritage Plan 2011 – 2017, and will hopefully open readers’ eyes to the wonders that are right on their doorstep. There was a good turnout of about 80 people, and afterwards Matthew Parkes led those present on a short tour of the nearby coast to see some interesting geological formations. You can get a free copy by emailing heritage@fingalcoco.ie or by telephone on 8905771.

Naomh Mearnog host tea dance  natalie burke

Senior citizens from across Malahide and nearby areas descended on Portmarnock recently, when Naomh Mearnog GAA Clubhouse held an annual afternoon tea dance.

Over 130 senior citizens attended the popular event, which took place earlier this month, seeing groups from Malahide, Portmarnock, Baldoyle, Donabate, Balbriggan and Skerries in attend-

ance.

This year was the third year of the Afternoon Tea Dance, which is organised by Fingal Senior Citizens Forum, and the event runs in various locations across Dublin throughout the year.

The forum’s event saw Mayor of Fingal, Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), stop by, as well as some musical entertainment from Cameo, a band that played old time rockand-roll for the evening, and a raffle.

According to Jim Collier, PRO of Fingal Senior Citizens Forum, the aim of the tea dance was to encourage the older generation of the community to get active.

“We want to get older people out socialising and become more active so it’s great to have the active retirement associations and the senior citizens associations who are affiliated with us involved,” he said.

“It was a great success and was very enjoyable.

All the guests wanted to know when the next event would be. We hope to have another dance in Balbriggan and one in Blanchardstown early next year so we will keep the groups informed,” he concluded.

The Fingal Senior Citizens Forum, which was previously known as the Fingal Senior Citizens Network, is a group of local senior citizens groups who provide social support for Senior citizens in Fingal.

A fashionable Designer Day at Vincent’s

VINCENT’S Malahide will be hosting a Designer Day next Saturday, October 20, from 12pm.

The charity shop has been hosting the Designer Day twice a month since May 2010, and they sell a collection of the best brand new and second hand items which they receive in donations.

All are welcome to attend.

We have adequate supplies of salt for winter – Council  natalie burke

nburke@gazettegroup.com

WITH fears mounting that possible freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall could be on the cards this winter, Fingal County Council (FCC) have confirmed that adequate road gritting supplies are already in place.

In response to a question raised by Fianna Fail councillor Darragh Butler at a recent council meeting, FCC confirmed that there are currently 2,600 tonnes of road-gritting salt in stock for the Fingal area.

These salt supplies are for use on national, primary, regional and local roads. The council also confirmed

there will be access to further supplies, when required, from the National Roads Authority, and that the current stock levels are considered adequate for the 2012/2013 winter season.

Welcoming the response, Cllr Butler said he was pleased to hear the council were prepared in advance of the winter months.

He said: “We never know what the winters we’re going to have will be like, and we’re coming close to that time of year again. I think [FCC] have done an excellent job, all things considered, over the past number of years, so I’m happy with the response.

“It is getting in and out of your estate that causes the problems

and, in the more rural areas, there is always an issue. Councillors have discussed before that if salt could be made available to estates, maybe local volunteers could help out.

“Some business parks have their own salt supplies for use if needs be, and if we could do something similar in estates, it would be great,” he said.

18 October 2012 malahide Gazette 9

commerce Encouraging support for local business

Castle should not overshadow village – chamber  natalie burke

The Malahide Chamber of Commerce has this week called on local residents and visitors to the village to continue to support the efforts of local businesses.

This move follows the recent opening of the redeveloped Malahide Castle and Gardens, which officially opened its gates on Monday, October 15.

The Chamber of Commerce, as well as owners of local businesses in

Malahide Village, have said they are in full support of the recently redeveloped Malahide Castle project, but urge thecommunity not to forget about their village.

“I think the castle is a great addition to Malahide and we’re delighted to see both the castle and Avoca, which gives another dimension to retail in the area,” said Trish Murtagh, president of the Malahide Chamber.

“However, the access roads aren’t ready yet and

the signage isn’t up yet to give equal priority to the village, so I think it’s very important that people realise that in all of the excitement of the castle and of Avoca, that people by all means support it but not to the detriment of their village.

“We’re currently working with Fingal County Council in terms of public measures that will help link the business to the village. Businesses in the village very much support the castle project and I’d like to see that we

The Malahide Chamber of Commerce is urging the community not to forget about their neighbourhood village and to support the efforts of local businesses

are a joint destination for tourism and a joint benefit to each other,” she continued.

“Malahide is unique with a mix of boutiques, cafes, the marina, the beach, the castle and Avoca, but it’s important that the village doesn’t get overshadowed by all

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that we have.”

Local Fine Gael Councillor Anthony Lavin also encouraged residents to support local business, saying it would be “a challenge” over the coming weeks to encourage people to visit both the village and the newlyopened castle and gar-

dens.

“We want people to support the businesses in the village and hope the castle will bring more people to the village so that it is a two-way street.

We hope the castle benefits from the village and the village benefits from the castle,” he said.

food Fest may be annual Following the success of this year’s Flavours of Fingal event, the agriculture and food show could be set to become an annual event.

Fingal County Council has congratulated those involved with the success of this year’s event, which was held at Newbridge House, Donabate, and are currently exploring plans for 2013.

The July festival was attended by 18,000 people over two days and, according to exit surveys, people attending the show were very happy with the event and the programme of activities.

According to the FCC, members of the organising committee are currently exploring methods of funding the show next year.

10 malahide Gazette 18 October 2012

gazetteGALLERY

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Janice Lawlor and Clare Aughney

Models Faye Rooney, Laura Finnegan, Lisa Nolan and Hayley Ryan. Pictures: Patrick O’Leary

Fun fringe festival

T

HERE was a colourful girls’ night out at Movies@Swords last week as local women flocked to catch a romantic film, courtesy of shampoo brand, Herbal Essences.

Having asked women to nominate their favourite romantic movie, The Notebook, starring Ryan Gosling, came out on top, with

Katie Bowers and Larragh Sampson

everyone happy to take notes on what makes a great romance work – on the silver screen, at least.

In a bid to banish the autumn blues, Herbal Essences also invited everyone to say Aloha to a Hawaiian-themed evening, with cocktails and coconuts adding to the upbeat fun.

Joanne Fitzgerald and Jessica Hughes

Katie Wall and Keira Finucane

Aisling Kavanagh and Cindy Flynn

Orla Minehane and Samantha Kinsella

18 October 2012 gazette 11

Schools P14-15

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

asdfsdaf business P27 P16

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Gazette

Diary P12

competition: Students invited to draw for site

Doodle for Google and you could win a €5,000 prize WEB giant Google is offering students the chance to win a €5,000 scholarship towards the cost of their college education, simply by doodling.

The Doodle 4 Google competition, launched this week by Dublin 15 native, Clodagh Ryan, is asking students aged from four to 18 to get involved and potentially win some fabulous prizes.

The winning student will have their doodle appear on the Google Ireland homepage for 24 hours and they will receive a €5,000 college scholarship, a €10,000 technology grant for their school, and a laptop for themselves and one for their teacher.

This year’s theme is My Invention..., and Google say they would love to see doodles inspired by

inventions – whether a unique or a novel device, a new method of doing something, or changing an existing process.

The Doodle 4 Google competition is open to all students attending primary or secondary school or Youthreach groups in the Republic of Ireland, and contestants will be divided into five groups, based on school year.

Doodle entries from students will be whittled down to 75 creations that will appear on the Doodle 4 Google website before the top five doodles are chosen, as well as the overall winner, by a judging panel.

The closing date for entries is December 10, and full details of the competition can be found at www.google.ie/ doodle4google.

Dublin 15 native, Clodagh Ryan, is asking students aged from four to 18 to get involved in the Doodle 4 Google competition

Gazette

12 gazette 18 October 2012

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dublinlife

diary

The write way to get George Hook animated

BROADCASTER George Hook this week launched the second annual Tell The Future competition – a story-writing contest encouraging post-primary school students across Ireland to write a short story on how to power the country into the future in a sustainable, environ-

mentally-friendly way.

The Newstalk presenter is spearheading this year’s competition, and has made a special animated video for pupils, parents and teachers to learn more about it. The video can be viewed on the competition website at www.tellthefuture.eu.

Bringing the winner’s stories to life is a key feature of this year’s competition, and the two winners will have the unique opportunity to have their story transformed into a one-of-a-kind animated video narrated by Hooky himself.

The closing date for

entries to the Tell The Future secondary competition is Friday, November 30. For full details, visit www.tellthefuture.eu.

free talk on getting a job in 2012 AS PART of Innovation Dublin, a free talk will be given by CPL Recruitment specialist, Peter Cosgrove, entitled, Tips On How To Find A Job In 2012.

The talk will take place in the Central Library in the Ilac Shopping Centre on Thursday, October 25, from 1 to 2pm.

According to Cosgrave, today’s highly-competitive job market has created a shift in how candidates prepare for job interviews.

Interviewers are asking more unusual questions to assess such matters as self-awareness, as well as traditional skills.

The event is being run

Broadcaster George Hook has launched the second annual Tell The Future competition

as part of Innovation Dublin, which is currently running until October 26, and is part of Dublin City Public Libraries’ Career Direction and Development Programme.

It is free of charge, although booking is recommended.

For booking and further details, contact the Business Information Centre at the Central Library, Ilac Shopping Centre, Henry Street; telephone 01 873 3996, or email businesslibrary@

dublincity.ie.

UNDERGROUND FILM FEST CALL FOR 2013 SUBMISSIONS Underground Cinema, which recently hosted the hugely-successful Underground Film Festival, are now accepting submissions for their new season of monthly screenings.

There are no submission fees and all films selected are considered for nomination for the

Underground Cinema Awards that will take place in the Royal Marine Hotel in September 2013.

You can submit a film to be screened at one of Underground Cinema’s monthly screenings by logging on to www.underground-cinema.com and filling in a submission form.

Once you have submitted your form you can then send your film to Underground Cinema, 3 The Drive, Woodbrook Glen, Bray, Co Wicklow.

editorial: new look, same great newspaper

Gazette regeneration YOU will have noticed by now that your Dublin Gazette Newspaper has a fresh new feel.

The new design is a great achievement by our team and we’re delighted to be able to share it with you after months of hard work on getting everything just right.

The new look and feel of the newspaper is

another statement of our confidence in Dublin Gazette Newspapers.

We have recently increased our print run to 45,000, and now, with an estimated readership of 140,000, we are bucking all current industry trends.

The design may be new, but the values remain the same. The loyalty we see

from the vibrant communities we serve across the city matches our commitment to deliver the best in news, sport and features to our loyal local readers.

There is always the opportunity for you to get involved, and we are always delighted to hear from you with your local stories, photographs and

opinions, and you’ll find all the contact information you need on Page 2.

The changes you see are built on eight years of success in talking to Dublin, and listening to our readers. I look forward to that conversation continuing for many years to come.

ROB HEIGH, news editor rheigh@gazettegroup.com

18 October 2012 gazette 13

Gazette

14 gazette 18 October 2012

dublinlife

schoolLife Get involved with our new Gazette schools pages As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact me at rheigh@ gazettegroup.com, or on 01 601 0240.

Riversdale cc: recent graduates bag president’s awards

Gaisce gold for former students

 Jason nesbitt and ryan higgins

CONGRATULATIONS to Naomi Marie-Rose (19) and Gavin Smullen (20), two students who recently graduated from Riversdale Community College, on receiving their Gold Gaisce Award on September 27 in Dublin Castle from President Michael D Higgins.

Gaisce, the President’s Award is Ireland’s National challenge award for young people. It was set up by the President’s office to encourage and reward young people aged 15 to 25 who give their services to the commu-

nity.

Last year in Riversdale Community College 55 fourth to sixth years achieved their Gaisce targets: 37 students achieved the bronze Gaisce award and eight fifth years received silver Gaisce.

Going for gold There are three levels of Gaisce award: bronze, silver and gold.

Bronze takes six months to complete, silver takes twelve months and gold is rarely completed under three years.

Speaking at the recent awards ceremony, gold recipient Naomi MarieRose said: “Through

Naomi Marie-Rose, Gavin Smullen, President Michael D Higgins and Ms Robinson, Transition Year co-ordinator, Riversdale CC

my par ticipation in the Gaisce Award I learned a lot about the importance of community and new skills, but mostly – I learned a lot about myself.”

Fellow gold achiever,

Gavin Smullen, commented that: “Through par ticipating in the Gaisce bronze, silver and gold award I have gained self-confidence as well as finding a career that I love.”

Principal of Riversdale Community College Mr Tony Barry said that he was “extremely proud of the achievements of all of the Gaisce award participants”.

18 October 2012 gazette 15

Gazette

schools Collinstown Park CC: a trip to munster for geography class

Castles, caves and Cashel on a great day out î Ž Third year geography class

MR REILLY and Ms Coffey organised a geography field trip to Cashel Tipperary for our third year geography classes.

We all met up outside the school as we had to leave at 8am and after a two and a half hour bus journey we made our first stop at Mitchelstown caves.

While on the bus the teachers gave us a work-

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sheet to fill out about the trip.

There, we met our tour guide, Aoife.

Before we went into the cave, Aoife told us all about the history of the site.

When we went into the cave we went down a lot of steps and Aoife told us to watch ourselves as the steps were very steep.

As we went through the cave we filled out our worksheets based

on the information we got from Aoife. Before we left the cave Aoife turned the lights off to show us how dark it was without lights.

W hen we finished our tour of the cave we thanked Aoife.

After that we got on the bus and went to McDonalds or Topaz, we had a choice because they were beside each other.

Afterwards we made our way to the Rock of

The third-year geography class from Collinstown Park CC outside the Rock of Cashel

Cashel on the bus. At the rock we met our tour guide Kevin and he told us the history of the rock.

They were building a roof over the rock to keep it dry. He also showed us the round tower which was very tall.

When the tour was over we walked to the Cashel folk village.

When we got there we got a sheet explaining the history of the folk village.

They had very interesting ar tefacts and

statues.

We all made our way around exploring and looking at different things like a caravan and a wishing well.

After that we walked to the town.

We sat down for a

while and then we went to the Wonka sweet shop.

When we were finished there we got back on our bus and went back to the school and then made our way home.

GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 18 October 2012

DUBLINLIFE

Q&A

BUSINESS

Supported

by AIB

Financial Planning – Part 2 Continued from last week

HILLS HIRE, HILLS CENTRE, JOHNSTOWN RD

Making a sure-hire way in Dublin business HILLS Hire’s motto is “We hire almost everything”, but they are much more than a local hire shop.

Hills is a family run business, run for many years by Heather and Ricky Little before their retirement. It is now in the safe hands of Cara and Carl Fortune.

Hills offer a wide range of serv-

ices to their loyal customer base, including a workshop facility where it maintains a hire fleet and services and repairs most makes of customer machines.

Here, Carl talks about his business, and how the team at Hills Hire manage the challenges of operating a business in the current climate.

How long have you been in business?

Any customers that are pricing jobs are struggling and as result they are seeking more competitive rates. We offer repair and service of customers’ tools and equipment which may save them the cost of replacing essential equipment. We continuously monitor our costs and outgoings. We also have new customers who are new to the DIY market and need more assistance with selecting and operating the correct equipment.

Hills Hire was established in 1968 in Pottery Road. We moved to our new premises in Hills Centre in 1982.

What makes your business successful?

We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, providing the right products at the right prices to a wide customer base. We offer a very diverse range of equipment for hire or sale at the most compeditive rates. We provide an excellent follow-up service for customer machines, servicing and repairing.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

It would be of great benefit if the VAT rate would be reduced.

We listen to our customers and aim to assist them to identify the correct tool/equipment for their job whether they are professional landscapers/builders or enthusiastic DIYers. Our staff have a combined 85 years experience with tools and equipment, which allows us to offer appropriate advice to those who need some direction in selecting the correct tool.

What is your ambition for the business?

How has the recession impacted your business?

We enjoy creating local employment and serving our customers needs. Our business is extremely diverse and every day is different, meaning that each day offers different opportunities. We like to use our experience and skills to assist our customers in making the correct selection of equipment for their job.

As with everyone else in business, we have been affected by the recession. We realise that everybody is in similiar situation and as a result we have maintained our hire rates for many years without an increase and have no increases planned.

We are aiming to keep our doors open through this very difficult time.

We continue to provide an excellent customer service to our many loyal customers, always offering quality tools and equipment at the most competitive rates possible.

What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?

MOST financial products are bought on a one-off basis.

You suddenly need a mortgage, or you fall into the clutches of a life insurance salesman and – bang – you are making major financial decisions before you have time to think.

The result is that you may not get the best product for your needs ... or the best value. Every major financial decision you make should be part of an overall plan.

Thus, a particular product, such as a mortgage, loan, insurance policy or investment, should be judged not just on its individual merits, but also in terms of how it moves you closer to where you want to be.

“Dream, dream, dream, dream, dream, dream”. The Everly Brothers (now called the Elderly Brothers) had a point. Dreaming has a huge role to play in financial planning.

Consider what you’d like to be doing in, say, five years, 10 years and 20 years. Consider what work (if any) you’ll be doing, where you’ll be living and how you’ll be spending your leisure time.

What will your family situation be? What – and this is key – will your financial situation be? Once you have a clear picture of the future life you’d like to have, you can start expressing it in financial terms and working out how to get there.

Once you have an idea of how you want things to turn out, you can start to think about what your precise

financial objectives are. Obviously, these are going to vary according to your age, circumstances and desires.

If you are in your first job, you are going to be thinking rather differently from someone who is approaching retirement.

Therefore, you may find it useful to divide your financial objectives into the short-, medium- and long-term.

Let me give you a simple, real-life example.

Richard, 29, is a teacher. His short-term financial objectives are to get rid of his credit-card debt (left over from university), start building up some savings, and buy a car. His medium-term objective is to buy a home.

His long-term objective is to earn some extra income with which to boost his pension, since he has decided he wants to retire when he is 55.

Setting and prioritising your financial objectives is hardly rocket science, as you can see.

Part Three continues next week ...  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

BOXEVER: LOCALS BEHIND TRAVEL DATA FIRM

High flying start-up secures €800,000 investment CUSTOMER intelligence company, Boxever, has secured €800,000 funding from a syndicate of investors led by Delta Partners, together with Bloom Equity and Enterprise Ireland.

Established in September 2011, Boxever has created a cloud-based big data platform that enables airlines and travel companies to gather and analyse customer data in real-time and increase revenue through personalised marketing and merchandising.

T he company has already secured its first contract with Nordicbased Atlantic Airways, and is confident of its ability to attract more airlines in the coming months.

Founded by David O’Flanagan, Leixlip man Alan Giles and Portmarnock native Dermot O’Connor, the company currently employs six people and is an Enterprise Ireland High Potential Start Up (HPSU) client company.

Boxever emerged from the NDRC Launchpad accelerator programme last year and is now based in Dogpatch Labs on Barrow Street.

Speaking about the investment, O’Flanagan said: “We are delighted with this funding and anticipate that the capital will enable us to increase sales and marketing activities as well as expand our R&D team in Dublin.

“Travel today is the third biggest e-commerce

Boxever’s chief executives

market in the world. It generates over $100 billion in online sales but only a very small percentage of companies capitalise on the goldmine of data that they have about their customers. This presents a huge opportunity for Boxever.”

This deal is among the 12 investments made by venture capitalist Delta Partners during the last

year and follows their most recent announcements of funding.

Frank Kenny from Delta Partners said: “Boxever is yet another example of the great travel technology companies to come out of Ireland in the past 10 years. The team brings together the right combination of skills and assets to build a large Ireland-based company.”

18 October 2012 gazette 17

MOTORS P22

asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

MUSIC P19

Theatre THE peacock THEATRE 01 878 7222 Shibari

Aardman’s Merlin Crossingham, left, with Dr Annie Doona, President of IADT, and head of animation, Keith Foran, together with Wallace, Gromit and The Pirate Captain

animation: aardman’s creative director comes to blackrock for festival

Merlin, a wizard of arts  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

Blackrock Animation Film Festival welcomed some very special guests last week. They were about eight inches tall, and are two of the most famous characters in the world.

Wallace and Gromit were accompanied by Merlin Crossingham, creative director at Aardman Studios in Bristol, who was guest of honour at the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT), where he led animation workshops and spoke to students last week.

Crossingham has worked on numerous Wallace and Gromit productions as well as motion pictures Chicken Run, Flushed Away and the last Aardman stop-motion feature, The Pirates! In an

Adventure with Scientists.

Speaking to the Gazette after visiting a nearby school with the dynamic duo, Crossingham spoke about his career to date.

“I gatecrashed a lecture with a friend of mine when I was studying for my A-levels given by Ray Fields, who was head of animation in Liverpool. I was studying photography and it was amazing when I discovered animation. I realised it was simply the magic of movement, making something that couldn’t move come to life.”

Asked about what it is like to work at one of the world’s most renowned studios, with Oscar-winner Nick Park, Crossingham gave an insight into his progression in the company: “I was a senior animator on The Curse Of The

Were-Rabbit, and the guys just had too much to do. They asked me if I’d be an assistant director on it. It was my first experience of directing, and Nick took me under his wing throughout the whole film. It was fascinating.

“It’s amazing to work with Nick Park.

He’s an extraordinarily creative mind, he never stops surprising me all the time, the amount of funny ideas he has, and he’s extremely generous.”

Merlin has a favourite character, both to watch and to work with. “Gromit is my favourite. It’s because of his loyalty, his dedication and because he’s the hardest to animate. You have to get everything across with very little, everything he’s thinking and feeling. The animators know what good acting is and they use that knowledge to animate Gromit.”

On computer-generated animation, as opposed to the laborious process of stop-motion, Crossingham spoke about Aardman’s notional rivals, Pixar: “John Lassiter and Nick are great friends. They launched Pixar in 1989 at the same time as Wallace and Gromit, so it’s like we’re two simultaneous branches of animation. A company like Pixar can bankroll plenty of artistic development that we couldn’t, as we just don’t have that kind of money. Having said that, necessity is the mother of invention.”

Speaking about the Blackrock Animation Film Festival, he said: “Festivals like this are vitally important for the industry and its the future. It’s a great opportunity for young filmmakers to have their work seen and get feedback from industry professionals.”

SHIBARI marks the Abbey debut of both writer Gary Duggan and director Tom Creed and is one of those terms that you probably shouldn’t Google in work.

Inspired by the art of Japanese rope bondage, Shibari is a story of loose connections, the ties that bind and the messy tangles we find ourselves in.

Weaving a story of cosmopolitan Dublin, family and loss, Duggan’s play relies on a series of two-handed scenes as the characters navigate their way through relationships, families and grief.

In order for the play to work, therefore, the characters have to be well-drawn and the performances strong.

Luckily, that is the least of the concerns here. Orion Lee’s Hideo is a standout, giving an understated, nuanced performance as Hideo, a Japanese florist.

Michael Yare is another who gives a star turn, infusing his English movie star Nick with warmth and vulnerability.

Ultimately, the play moves well, but the ending is rather unfulfilling, with too many strands left unexplored and the audience left to imagine just what has happened to the majority of characters.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 18 October 2012

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE

BEAUTY news Get moisturising and rehydrate your skin this winter

Heatons €25

 LAURA WEBB

Marks & Spencer €54 WINTER warmers are being dusted from closets as temperatures begin to drop, so that can only mean one thing – dry skin.

To tackle this problem this winter the one thing we need to include in our daily routine is that simple lotion called moisturiser.

Yes we all know what it is, but how often do we us it?

During the winter, those with more dry skin than others should use it more regularly than those with normal or oily skin. The best time to moisturise is after a shower or bath, after exfoliating a n d a l s o a f te r shaving.

Here are some Ga zette Style recommendations. Zia ja’s latest moisturising range using three different natural oil types - argan oil (Quench) which has revolutionised hair care, is used to reinforce the skin’s lipid barrier and improve skin texture and offer thirsty skin a burst of hydration. Avocado Oil (Nourish) a nutrient packed super foods and vitamins is ideal for anyone suffering from dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis as it absorbs quickly into deep tissue.

Finally, grape seed oil (Protects) encourages the production of elastin to keep the skin elastic, and a variety of vitamins that protect against damage.

Each body lotion from the range come with a RRP of €5.99 and is available to selected pharmacies nationwide or on www.originalbeauty.ie. Each range is also available in a face-cream (€6.99) and hand-cream (€3.99).

Meanwhile, Aveeno have unleashed the power of oats with their Dermexa products that contains oat extracts which help to relieve those little itches that can come with dry skin. It soothes and moisturises dry irritated skin. The soothing emollient cream is suitable for everyone in the family and is available at leading pharmacies nationwide.

S C I H P A R G T GRE A

ing up on ever y th g in p p o p e ar is great graphic prints g is in - like th in st ra nt co d ashing an Penneys this season, cl ir t, €13 from sk d an 15 € graphic shir t, Debenhams €93

Debenhams €85

Next €60

Heatons €25

Next €43

Penneys €25 Next €36

18 October 2012 gazette 19

Gazette

MUSIC FASTtunes

Ethneos’ blend of styles creating a new power folk Dublin-based grunge-folk band Entheos have just released their latest EP, Where Creatures Meet, and the first single from the EP, Tend the Dark Flame, is available for free download through the band’s Facebook page.

Over the past few years, Entheos have made a name for themselves as an energetic and impressive live act. They have played regular sets in Dublin, and have played in venues around Ireland, with a few select dates in Europe. They have played support to some of the biggest names in Irish music, including Damien Dempsey and Kila. For more information, see facebook.com/ entheosirl.

Husker Du and Sugar founder Bob Mould with current bandmates Jason Narducy and Jon Wurster

MUSIC REVIEW: legend’s return to power-pop perfection

Sweet like Sugar SOME things simply get better with age. Fine wines. Cheese. Me. One of the other things is Bob Mould, founder member and driving force behind the best band of the eighties, Husker Du, the second best thing to ever come out of Minneapolis after Prince.

If you look at any interview with the biggest acts of the nineties - The Pixies, Nirvana, and so on - they all cite Husker Du and Mould’s velocity-and-vertigo guitar style as major influences.

Now 51, Mould is back on the road and is effortlessly hitting the heights he scaled with Husker Du and his second

 ROB HEIGH news@gazettegroup.com

band, Sugar, as well as the peaks he has scaled time and again throughout his solo career.

The driver this time is the release of Silver Age, his tenth solo release, and what an utterly convincing return to what he does best — propellent-based melodic rock — it is.

Opener Star Machine is a statement of intent – tubthumping drums and rolling bass before a torrent of guitar rips

the song clean open as the chorus arrives. It is a perfect introduction to the ten brief tracks on Silver Age, which lasts all of 38 minutes, a comet of a record that leaves a glorious trail in its wake.

It’s also the most Husker thing on the record. The power-trio format that defined Mould as a genre-defining artist is back in place — Jason Narducy on bass and Superchunk’s Jon Wurster on drums — and is the perfect fuel that the guitarist-singer sets alight.

The title of the album is clearly reflective of Mould’s awareness of his own position in the rock firmament - he might be

51, but he remains utterly committed and relevant.

With Foo Fighters and No Fear both heralding his gift to melodic rock over the years, the vigour with which every track is attacked by the trio is a reminder who did it first, and in many cases, who did and still continues to do it best.

The title track contains the lyric, “Never too old to contain my rage”, and it’s interesting to hear him sing, “I didn’t want to sing the song that gave people so much hope” on the magnificent track that follows it, The Descent.

Mould has seen it all and still has the fire in his belly to fight anything that might be percieved

as a dying of the light. In fact, he’s burning brighter than ever. And if you need proof of that, watch him melt the speakers and destroy the level meters on Late Night With David Letterman recently - youtube.com/ watch?v=Ieb_T9ylY4o To say Silver Age is a return to form would be a bit of an understatement.

This is an artist with a purpose and intent and a drive to create noise pop havoc that has always been tweaking at the corners of his more considered solo material, but has never been so perfectly expressed as it is here since the release of Copper Blue with Sugar 20 years ago.

Gazette

20 gazette 18 October 2012

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

more

theatre THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 Brendan Grace

THE greatest family comedian of his generation proudly presents 40 years in the comedy business.

Brendan’s new show features some brand new material and some old favourites from his vast repertoire, including all-time favourite parodies such as Father of the Bride and Chinese Takeaway. As always, it is advisable to secure your ticket early. Grace is playing two shows on October 19 and 20.

Tickets are priced at €31.

mill theatre 01 296 9340 Sylvia’s Quest

THIS innovative promenade show uses cutting-edge radio technology, which empowers you to listen to the sounds, voices and worlds which only Sylvia can usually see and hear on headphones.

Sylvia’s Quest invites you to take to Dundrum and follow Sylvia on her thrilling quest through the centre’s labyrinth.

Sylvia shares her multiple worlds with you, her new friend, as she guides you through her secret streets and time portals.

The show runs from October 17-21 and tickets are priced at €12/€10.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477 Ride On

A Honda 50 bike-run forms the background of a hilarious new play by writer Seamus O’Rourke.

Five members of the Drumkarren Honda Club are sitting in a run-down shed in Co Cavan, ready to embark on a bike-ride, awaiting the other 20 members (seemingly “stuck” in a pub in Killeshandra).

Running from November 6-10 at 8pm, tickets are €20/€16.

The five teens at the heart of The Perks of Being a Wallflower take some time to contemplate their changing lives

cinema: Stephen Chbosky brings his iconic 1990s novel to the screen

Young love blooms ALLOWING your book to be adapted for the big screen must a terrifying experience for modern writers.

The constant secondguessing of screenwriter, director and cast on forums, chatrooms and social media must make many writers wonder why they bother.

When your book is as loved as The Perks of Being a Wallflower, the challenge is obviously multiplied.

Could a modern audience connect with a lead character who essentially watches what happens, rarely participating?

Could any actress capture the allure and fragility of the character Sam? Would Patrick be reduced to a gay caricature, all sass and no depth?

 paul hosford

phosford@gazettegroup.com

With these questions hanging over the film, writer Stephen Chbosky decided that the only man to capture the book was...the man who captured the book.

Writing and directing his semi-autobiographical epistolary novel, Chbosky rarely bows to the pressures of commercial film-making and turns in a film that is touching, funny and heartwarming.

Centred around Charlie, a teen about to embark on his first day of high school, Perks,

shows the world of an “island of misfit toys” as they attempt to navigate their way through highschool in early 90’s suburban Pittsburgh.

At high school, Charlie meets step-brother and sister Patrick and Sam, with whom Charlie finally feels at home.

On this side of the water, there will naturally be a huge interest in the performance of Emma Watson, post-Hermione, Harry and Hogwarts.

The truth is that when the announcement was made that she would play Sam, many, this reviewer included, wondered if she had the acting chops to take on the role.

This is not a typical nerdy-girl love interest, Sam is one of those frightfully rare creatures,

Film of the Week: The Perks of Being a Wallflower h h h h h (12A) 103mins Director: Stephen Chbosky Starring: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller, Mae Whitman, Paul Rudd, Kate Walsh, Dylan McDermott, Nina Dobrev

OUR VERDICT: FOR fans of the book, this is about as perfect as cinema gets.

Chbosky not only wrote the adaptation of his seminal novel, but also sat in the directors chair. With that comes the transfer of the warmth, the affection and the heart of the book’s trio of misfit leads to the silver screen. Lerman, born a year after the film’s 1991 setting, is stellar as Charlie.

a female character who is both likable, layered and well-written.

As the object of Charlie’s affection, it would be easy to relegate her to simply eye-candy or your basic template of teen romantic interest, but Chbosky makes her much, much more than that.

Fragile yet confident, optimistic yet tortured, desirable yet grounded, Sam essentially inhab-

its the Venn diagram of all things that teenage boys want, but carries the emotional baggage that makes grown men scared.

Watson, for her part, turns in a brilliant, surprising performance, full of nuance and charm.

On the boys side, Logan Lerman anchors the film without ever really saying much. His Charlie is not a character fond of expression or

participation.

Instead, he observes, he notices and, above all, he cares.

Even his mis-steps are charming enough to keep the audience onside and as he learns to live with his own demons, both new and old, it is impossible not to root for him.

Ezra Miller takes on the role of gay best friend but his intense portrayal of Patrick’s lower moments lift him above gay pastiche.

Arrested Development fans will enjoy Mae Whitman as part of the group that welcomes Charlie into their bosom and Paul Rudd sparkles as Charlie’s confidant and English teacher.

This is an honest, affectionate look at the teenagers we all wish we were.

18 October 2012 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

GAMING

BYTES&PIECES A MINI SOLUTION

Latest Pokemon are released into the retail wilds SEEING as I pointed out PETA’s take on Pokemon, below left, I should also point out that Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 are now out on the usual DS platforms, and should send Pokemon’s legions of fans into, well, a happy mood indeed.

Although the likes of Skylanders on the “bigger” consoles have grabbed a lot of attention in recent times, Pokemon still keeps an awful lot of fans happy, and Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 should be a lot of fun.

STILL CATCHIN’ ’EM ALL

Is Apple about to tackle the Kindle?

Welcome to Dunwall – a city best described as a curious blend of Victorian London’s slums with a dash of America’s frontier spirit. With a murdered empress, a mysterious plague, a totalitarian crack-down and all manner of untrustworthy characters (right), it’s an interesting time to be on the run in the city ...

DISHONOURED: A ROYALLY ENTERTAINING TITLE

Reclaim your honour WITH Christmas around the corner, gamers are about to be spoilt for choice as some heavyweight titles lumber into view on all platforms.

First up, we have a new release, Dishonoured; a cross-platform title that oozes just as much flair and style as its grim streets drip and slip with nefarious goings-on – in the best possible way, of course.

Stepping into the wrongfully-accused shoes of Corvo (basically, something of a cross between a soldier, an assassin, and a supernaturalist), you begin the game languishing in prison, wrongly accused of murdering the Empress.

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com

What’s a self-respecting former bodyguard with his name to clear and vengeance on his mind to do?

That’s right – it’s up to you to escape, romp about the mean city streets of Dunwall, uncover secrets and conspiracies, track down the cads responsible for the murder, and ensure that they face a lot more than tears before bedtime ...

Although it’s obsten-

ANOTHERWEEBYTE

PETA’S NEW MISSION: TO FREE POKEMON

sibly “just” another first-person-perspective game, Dishonoured shoots, carves and slices out its very own genre (for mature gamers), as it blends several genres together to create a singularly striking game.

That’s “striking” as in visually striking, yet also in that Corvo can strike at his enemies with a vareity of weaponry – including displaying an aristocrat’s skill with blades – as well as using his special, dark powers to do everything from slowing down time to, umm, possessing rats, to scraper and scamper about with ease.

Although it’s not a particularly long title to play through, there’s

much to enjoy, with a game world that adapts and reacts to the gamer’s style of playing, with subtle consequences to some of the player’s broad strokes.

For example, those who fancy themselves as dashing blades with Zorro’s skill will find Dunwall becoming even dingier – all those dispatched throughout the city having a tendency to attract ever more rats to her already plague-ridden streets, you see.

It’s up to you to decide how to play through the game – some may enjoy sneaking around, eavesdropping on conversations and piecing together a larger story,

while others will simply tear around like a bull in a china shop.

However, regardless of your playing style, Dishonoured rewards exploration and experimentation, with a richer than usual world, and story, to experience.

Special mention must be made of the game’s art style, with legendary Half Life 2 designer Viktor Antonov once again creating a tangible sense of place and identity, with every last corner of Dunhall’s slums, warehouses, homes and palaces created in style.

Fusing together such a wide range of contents, it’s an honourable game from Arkane Studios.

I LOVE this story! Game sites around the world pricked up their furry yellow ears at the news that PETA has once again set its sights on Pokemon, comparing the plight of Pokemon to “elephants chained up in train carts, waiting to perform” (as written on its website).

Of course, animal cruelty is no laughing matter, and is nothing to joke about, and all animal charities are to be rightfully lauded for their tireless work for our fellow creatures. However ... Pokemon? Perhaps Pikachu looks so happy here at the thought of finally leaving Ash – and no more fighting!

THIS is probably the 24,562,786th story about Apple in the papers – today – but all signs point to an imminent launch of the iPad Mini (working title); a portable tablet that Apple are expected to use to tackle rival tablets, such as Amazon’s Kindle.

Expected to be a wifi-only model, and with an “affordable” pricing point (rumoured to be about $200), the iPad Mini would be a practical solution to stop other big rivals, such as Amazon, from cornerning the increasingly lucrative tablet (and e-book reader) market.

Although the late Steve Jobs was against entering the tablet market, the slow but steady rise of e-readers, the opening up of new markets, and shifting consumer markets could make a new Apple tablet (that’s more portable than the larger iPad models) a lucrative move.

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GAZETTE

& OUT ABOUT road

MOTORS

NOISE

Grand Cherokee S Limited on the way THE exclusive new Jeep Grand Cherokee S Limited is set for its Irish debut in early 2013.

It combines the aggressive looks of the SRT8, courtesy of its exclusive body kit, 20-inch wheels and unique black detailing (grilles, headlamps, tinted glass, etc.) with the frugal refinement of the diesel-powered Limited and Overland models.

The interior of the S Limited has been reworked to match the sporty exterior revisions, with a heated sports steering wheel, leather and suede SRT8-style seats, carbon fibre door and dashboard inserts and special aluminium pedals, all as standard.

Final specification and pricing for the Jeep Grand Cherokee S Limited will be announced closer to the vehicle’s expected launch in Ireland in early 2013, pending the announcement of the Government’s vehicle-taxation policy for next year.

Grand Cherokee S

TOYOTA TAKES TOP SPOT IN GLOBAL BRANDS: TOYOTA was again named the world’s most valuable automotive brand in the recently published report Best Global Brands 2012 by Interbrand.

This year’s report sees Toyota’s brand valuation by Interbrand surge 9% and secure an overall top 10 spot across all industries.

According to Interbrand, Toyota’s success is due largely to continued customer loyalty, an impressive line-up of environmentally friendly products such as the Toyota Prius, and a strengthening appeal with younger customers.

In June this year, Toyota also emerged on top for the second

year running as the Best Global Green Brand.

Interbrand highlighted Toyota’s continued determination to maintain environmental sustainability as a top management priority as a key part of the company’s success story.

Interbrand looks at the on-going investment and management of the brand as a business asset when compiling the Best Global Brands report.

The methodology of the report takes into account a multitude of ways in which a brand connects and adds value to the organisation.

The 2012 edition of the Toyota European Sustainability Report is now available online: http://toyota. eu/sustainability/

The Mondeo’s CO2 emissions put the car firmly in the tax band A, costing a mere €104 per year

FORD: THE MONDEO TITANIUM ECO DESERVES ITS REPUTATION

An accomplished and comfortable saloon

 CORMAC CURTIS

I WAS pleasantly surprised with Ford on a number of occasions this year.

Specifically, the joy of family driving with the Ford C-Max, and also, the excitement when I got to try the Focus with Ford’s extraordinary new Ecoboost engine.

This month, I was treated to a week with Ford’s flagship saloon, the Mondeo Titanium ECO. The days of petrol heads trying to out-do each other in terms of engine size are long gone.

No longer do you see a line of 2.5 and 3.0-litre engines in the office car park, the real bragging rights belong to those with a car that brings the

most comfortable driving, the smallest engine, the lowest emissions and best performance.

If you can get all this with a boot big enough to hold the Leinster front row – so much the better.

No prizes for guessing what saloon offers all of this in one very attractive package – yes indeed, the Focus Titanium ECO. I don’t like to get too bogged down in figures and specs, but it is difficult to get away from just how much is on offer here.

For starters, the engine itself is the 1.6 TDCi producing 115PS with just 114 g/km in CO2 emissions. This puts the car firmly in tax band A, costing a mere €104 per year.

This motor will take

the Mondeo to 190km/h where it is legal to do so, and will take you from 0-100 km/hr in 11.9 seconds.

OK, so the acceleration won’t get your heart beating too fast, but for a comfortable saloon, the rest of the equation works out perfectly. A quick cruising speed, modest engine size, low tax, and with a combined fuel consumption rate of just 4.3 litres/100 km means this package is attractive before you even begin to consider the comfort and style on offer.

At this stage, I must point out that there is a new Mondeo due to be launched next year, but that might just give you a little leverage when you’re at a Ford dealer haggling over the price of

one of these babies.

The look speaks for itself. The Mondeo has long since shaken the reputation of a dull saloon – far from it, nowadays this is a car that grabs attention with a striking style statement and an incredibly attractive body shape.

The front end boasts a gaping grille and attractive chrome highlights, which are really set off against the dark body colour of my test model.

The lighting clusters give the car a strong expression, with the front fogs enjoying a split effect that lifts the lower section nicely.

The Mondeo comes in three spec levels, Modeo, Zetec and Titanium, with the Titanium spec certainly putting the driver

in the lap of luxury.

The stylish alloys are 17 inches and have 15 spokes, while the interior offers luxurious Alcantara leather–trim sports style seats.

Entertainment and communication is via the Sony stereo radio/CD with USB connection for iPod/MP3 devices.

For safety, the car has LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

All in all, the Mondeo deserves all the credit and praise it has enjoyed in recent years. It is a most accomplished and comfortable saloon that is practical and economical to run, as well as enjoying a luxurious spec.

18 October 2012 malahide gazette 23

adoption: help the dspca rehouse abandoned and mistreated animals

Make room for a new furry friend  ROB HEIGH

The Dublin Society For The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA), Ireland’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity was founded in 1840, and takes in stray, sick, injured and cruelly treated animals.

Every day in their centre in Rathfarnham, there are pets looking for new and loving homes. Each dog and cat is microchipped, wormed, deflea-ed, and has received its first vaccination. They also currently have rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, degus, goats and birds seeking new homes.

Animals over six

months old are neutered before being re-homed.

Dogs, cats, horses, birds and many other small companion animals brought to the Dublin SPCA are found new caring homes while some others remain in the care of the Dublin SPCA for the rest of their days.

The DSPCA has a set of adoption policies that they ask all potential adoptees to go through, and there is a small fee involved in adopting a new pet through the centre.

“Our adoption fees do not cover the full cost of the treatment and care your chosen pet may have received whilst at our rescue and rehoming centre.

PEt of the week Meet Timber, a big teddy bear of a dog I’m Timber, a four-year-old male Malamute cross. I am strong on the lead so would be best suited to a home with experienced owners who will continue my training with me. I get on pretty well with most other dogs but I would love to find a new home where I am the only dog. I need a special home with people who will give me a lot of time and who will be patient with me. If you would be interested in giving me the home, I deserve then please make an appointment to meet me by calling DSPCA Adoptions on 01 4994700.

“Fees are necessary if we are to continue helping the sick, injured and cruelly treated animals in need and we always welcome additional donations” You can see more of the animals looking for home and the DSPCA’s adoption policies by visiting www.dspca.ie/ AdoptaPet. However, due to the numbers of animals they receive each week, it is not possible to feature them all, so the staff are asking potential adoptees to visit the shelter in Rathfarnham on Monday to Friday from 11am to 4.30pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 4pm.

The staff at the centre

are currently advising pet owners to get their pets microchipped or, if they are already microchipped, check that they are registered to you and that all your details are up to date. Many pets go missing at this time of the year and it is important that they are reunited as quickly as possible with their owners.

As a charity, the DSPCA raises muchneeded funds through a number of different initiatives. The DSPCA Veterinar y Hospital, located at the main gates of the DSPCA, is just one of these where all profits go back to helping rescue animals. To find out more visit www.vetclinicdspca.ie

Gazette

PETS

24 MALAHIDE gazette 18 October 2012

Gazette

& OUT ABOUT fast TRAVEL

Wing your way to a superb Turkey break

HAVING been crowned Destination Of The Year 2012 at the recent Food and Travel Reader Awards, Istanbul is now regarded as one of Europe’s top city-break destinations, with more than eight million visitors annually.

To celebrate, Turkish Airlines have released some great offers on flights from Dublin to Istanbul, offering Irish tourists the perfect excuse to experience the wonder of Turkey’s largest city, with flights from just €179 return, including taxes and charges.

The offer is available for a limited time only, and is valid until November 30.

Travel must be undertaken between November 1 and April 30, 2013, with the offer not valid between December 28 and January 13.

For further information or to make a booking, see www.turkishairlines.com.

Uniquely, Istanbul straddles two continents

It’s all plain sailing on a delightful cruise FOR anyone who fancies a bit of sunshine rather than bracing themselves for the Irish winter weather, perhaps a pre-Christmas cruise could be just the thing to warm your spirits?

Thomas Cook offers the perfect getaway in the run up to the festive season, with five-star cruise experiences to exotic destinations around the world.

For example, why not avail of a 13-night cruise around the Canary Islands, from €1,099 per person, departing on November 22? Ports of call include Southampton, Madeira, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Lisbon and Vigo.

Alternatively, you could take a seven-night Mediterranean Cruise on board the MSC Splendida, from just €469, calling on Barcelona, La Goulette, Palermo, Civitavecchia, Genoa, Marseille and returning to Barcelona.

Prices are based on two adults sharing, with all taxes, charges and flights included.

To book, call Thomas Cook Cruise at 01 514 0337, visit your nearest travel agent, or see www. thomascookcruise.ie.

dubai: something for everyone in this glittering arabian jewel

Desert your blues with a spectacular city’s charm THERE seems to be a common misconception when it comes to traveling to Dubai – any Irish tourists under the illusion that they’re in for a hectic, long-haul journey to a purely Vegasstyle destination could be pleasantly disappointed.

In fact, discovering Dubai has become more popular as not just a romantic honeymoon spot, a shopping mecca and modern business hub, but as a universal draw and an ideal spot for families looking for the perfect destination.

 natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

There aren’t too many places in the world where you can ski in the middle of the desert, or take a stroll through a city made for, and by, children.

Whether it’s taking a camel ride in the desert, riding a water-rapid at one of the world’s best waterparks, or sharing dinner with a local fam-

ily, Dubai is one destination that combines fun, culture and relaxation.

For example, you could take the kids to visit Aquaventure – a 42-acre waterpark overflowing with speed-slides, river rapids and lush tropical landscapes, or enjoy one of life’s most memorable moments by swimming with a dolphin at Dolphin Bay. If it’s adrenaline and a bit of adventure you’re seeking, explore the mysterious ruins of the Lost Chambers, or visit the first ever SEGA Repub-

From desert treks to state-of-the-art aquariums and indoor skiing, Dubai has utterly transformed its desert location into an area that’s full of diverse activities

At 321m, the iconic, five-star luxury hotel Burj Al Arab

lic theme park, with nine heart-stopping attractions and 250 amusement games.

To immerse yourself in a bit of culture, discover the “real” Dubai on an Arabic desert safari by taking a camel ride, or speed through the dunes in a 4X4, or take the chance to learn about the Emerati culture and religion with a visit to the Jumeirah Mosque – the only mosque open to the public in Dubai.

Children (and you) will love the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo – the largest suspended aquarium in the world, housing more than 33,000 aquatic animals – while a visit to see KidZania (a city made for children) will let your kids live their grown-up dreams.

Take one of the world’s fastest elevators to the 124th floor of the Burj

Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, to steal the city’s greatest view, and be sure to catch sight of the world’s largest dancing fountain at the Burj Khalifa Lake.

With more than 6,000 superlights, the fountain is visible from more than 20 miles away, making it the brightest spot in the Middle East.

Rising from the Arabian Gulf on the crescent of the iconic Palm Island is the spectacular resort of Atlantis, one of Dubai’s most soughtafter hotels.

Inspired by the ocean, everything about Atlantis is larger than life.

Designed to exhilarate, the resort is a luxurious but family-friendly holiday haven.

The resort’s stunning beach invites guests to relax in the sunshine, whilst the spa promises complete rejuvena-

18 October 2012 MALAHIDE gazette 25

fast

Gazette

Travel

TRAVEL

Parknasilla Resort and Spa, Sneem, Co Kerry

families: relax with a spa getaway in co kerry

(Tower of the Arabs) is just one of the architectural marvels that Dubai boasts, attracting visitors from

tion. Atlantis is a place where an exotic marine landscape is combined with luxury guest rooms, diverse restaurants and stylish boutiques.

The resort also encompasses the water park Aquaventure, as well as a massive open-air marine habitat.

Considered Dubai’s most stylish beach resort, the One&Only Royal Mirage is a second resort that promises to live up to its name.

In a city renowned for its soaring skyscrapers, the One&Only Royal Mirage instead recalls the romance of Old Arabia, with 65 acres of lush, green lawns and immaculate flower beds, set along a kilometre of private beachfront.

The resort offers three hotels including The Palace, along the beachfront; the Arabian Court, and the Residence & Spa

– an intimate sanctuary in the heart of Dubai.

For details on the Royal Mirage, see www. oneandonlyresorts.com; for Atlantis, and The Palm, see www.atlantisthepalm.com.

Getting there With approximately six and a half hours’ flight time, and a direct route now transporting people from Dublin Airport to Abu Dhabi on a daily basis, is it any wonder Etihad Airways have something to shout about?

As the airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad has in just eight years established itself as one of the world’s best airlines, being named as the World’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards in recent years.

In 2012 alone, Etihad has transported almost seven million passengers

worldwide, to date.

Etihad takes great pride in giving its customers a five-star experience in the sky, and promises a unique service for all passengers traveling in Diamond First Class, Pearl Business Class or Coral Economy Class.

With one of the most comfortable and ergonomically-designed economy options in the sky, Etihad has more than 600 hours of ondemand entertainment on their in-flight system, and a varied menu and cafe service.

Flying from Dublin, you will land at Terminal 3 at Abu Dhabi Airport, Etihad Airways’ elegant and purpose-built terminal, and be transported by bus to Dubai, just an hour away.

For further details of Etihad flights and options, see www.etihadairways.com.

all over the world

The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, invites visitors to the 124th floor to take in some of the city’s many diverse sights and activities for all the family

FROM treasure hunts and outdoor adventures to luxury bedrooms and all-weather hot tubs, Parknasilla Resort and Spa in the beautiful county of Kerry has everything a family needs to indulge in a relaxing break this autumn.

Located in Sneem, Co Kerry, the five-star resort stands with spectacular views over Kenmare Bay and the Kerry mountains, and provides the ideal location for any family break.

Spend two nights’ bed and breakfast in one of the hotel’s many luxury bedrooms, and explore the beautiful surroundings with a choice of seven mapped walks, a round of golf and an archery lesson, as well as a Fairy Trail, where the kids can search for Parknasilla’s infamous mythical fairies.

Fun outdoor activities include tennis and fishing, treasure hunts and walking trails, while guests also enjoy complimentary access to the hotel’s pool.

While the children are enjoying the adventure and fresh air of Parknasilla’s great outdoors, mum and dad can make the most of the spa’s thermal suite and outdoor hot tubs.

Parknasilla features the great tradition of Irish hospitality that has always appealed to families, and this tradition is sure to be passed on to a new generation of guests.

The great facilities and activities for children, spacious villas and lodges that provide comfort for all the family, and its thermal spa treats and nights off for mum and dad, make this an ideal family holiday.

Enjoy two nights’ B&B with dinner on one evening for adults from €199 PPS. Children under the age of four stay for free at the resort, with children aged from four to 12 charged at a rate of €30 for bed and breakfast.

To book your family break this autumn, visit www.parknasillahotel.ie, or call 064 667 5600.

26 Malahide gazette 18 October 2012

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18 October 2012 MALAHIDE gazette 27

soccer P28

asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

kite-surfing P29

FastSport Clubs’ social media seminar:

Ronan Gormley, the first Irish player on the left, will hope his side can continue their rise up the world rankings as they received last-gasp funding Picture: Adrian Boehm

hockey: Irish men’s team raise €60,000 in five days to fund trip to Argentina

‘Remarkable’ support gives Gormley massive motivation CLONSKEA man Ronan Gormley said that he was truly inspired by fundraising efforts that raised over €60,000 in five days to help the Ireland’s men’s hockey team travel to the world ranking Champions Challenge tournament in Argentina next month.

Speaking about the fundraising drive, he said: “What has taken place over the last week is simply remarkable.

“On behalf of the Irish Men’s team, I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart all those who have contributed.

We have been told that we have inspired people through our performances…right

now we are truly inspired by them.”

The situation arose in the wake of the Irish Hockey Association (IHA) board’s decision to withdraw the side from the competition, initially due to the lack of a coach but subsequently announced as a result of a budget shortfall.

It was a move that would have seen a hefty fine imposed by the International Hockey Federation and a large world ranking points deduction. The manner of the communication saw a backlash from senior players and the hockey public and forced an about-face last Friday from the IHA.

They set a target of €45,000 to be raised by yesterday’s deadline, a figure which was surpassed via over 380 online donations as well as contributions from businesses.

While the final numbers remain to be finalised, the surplus has been ringfenced for events in 2013.

Speaking about the outcome, the IHA chairman of the board Dennis Millar said: “The board are thrilled that through a team effort and support from the community and benefactors that the team is now partaking in the Champions Challenge. We look forward to supporting

them at this upcoming ranking event.”

Speaking on RTE, meanwhile, IHA chief executive Angus Kirkland said the IHA board “under-estimated the depth of feeling and support for the men’s national team” adding: “the strength of feeling around the hockey community has enabled us to change that decision.”

In the short term, it allows Ireland to travel to the Champions Challenge which gets underway on November 24 in Quilmes with Ireland grouped with the hosts Argentina, Japan and South Africa in the initial phase of the competition.

DUBLIN local sports partnerships are calling on sports clubs to sign up for the 2012 Social Media Seminar for Sports Clubs at the Red Cow Inn on Saturday, November 17.

This year’s event will run from 9.30am to 1.30pm followed by lunch and a chance to network with other local clubs.

The main speaker will be Liam Horan (ex-journalist at the Irish Independent and RTE).

For more information or to register, log onto www.eventelephant.com/socialmediaforclubs.

Clubs can register online for a fee of €20 per person (and an online registration fee of €1.70) which includes lunch, parking, and an information pack.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 malahide gazette 18 October 2012

SPORT

FastSport FINGAL set for road to rio: THE FAI and Fingal County Council, in conjunction with Swords Pavilions, have announced the launch of the new Road to Rio after-school football programme.

The Road to Rio, which will coincide with the Republic of Ireland’s bid to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, is aimed at increasing participation in football in Fingal.

A number of different programmes will take place in schools, clubs and community centres in the region.

The competition begins this week in Skerries and Balbriggan and will provide primary-school kids with an opportunity to test their skills in an eight-week smallsided-games competition.

Also part of the programme are a number of after-school clubs, in which qualified FAI coaches will deliver fun coaching sessions to boys and girls aged five to 10. For further information, please contact Paul Keogh at paul.keogh@fai.ie.

Soccer: strong local contingent receives representative call-ups

Leinster interpros edged out  sport@gazettegroup.com

PALMERSTOWN CS’ Jamie Gooner y captained a Leinster schools squad that came up just short in their bid to continue the province’s brilliant run of results in the FAI Schools U18 Boys’ Interprovincials.

He was part of a team that also featured Clonkeen College’s Steven Byrne, St Kilian’s DSD’s Nika Arevadze, Malahide’s CS’ Dylan Cashin and Clayton Stafford of Collinstown Park Community College.

They just missed out on Leinster’s sixth successive title, having won 10 of the last 11 tournaments, playing out

a scoreless draw with Munster in the decisive match that saw the silverware make its way south.

Leinster’s opening encounter saw them pit their wits against Ulster’s best schoolboys and it was a good start for their attempted title defence although they conceded first with Aidan Sweeney scoring first for the northerners. However, Wexford man Kevin O’Connor was on hand with a brace to cancel out Sweeney’s earlier attempt.

With a win meaning two points in the tournament format, Munster and Leinster were deadlocked at the top with

two points, with Ulster and Connacht yet to bank points after the Friday fixtures.

John McShane’s defending champions could perhaps have taken the westerners a bit lightly in the penultimate games played on the Saturday, the Connacht side scored the only goal of the encounter with Portumna’s Conor Barry giving Tom Byrne’s side their first victory of the weekend.

Leinster may have noticed the title slipping away when Ulster banked another point from their clash with Munster, leaving them on top of the table and with Connacht seeing off

Leinster captain Jamie Goonery with Sean Carr at the tournament presentations

the reigning champions, that left the west equal with Leinster.

Therefore, Leinster not only needed to win their own game against the unbeaten Munster men, but they would also need Connacht to lose or draw. Munster certainly made it tough for the Leinster men as they aimed to become the first province to claim six FAI Schools U18 Boys’ Interprovincial title in a row.

They battened down

the hatches and effectively parked the bus knowing that a draw from the encounter would see them lift the trophy.

Connacht did everything they needed to do in their closing game against Ulster, scoring the only goal of the last day’s play, and putting themselves on top of the league table via youngster Liam Flatley who pounced on an opportunity in the dying embers of the game.

With the situation the way it was, Connacht then needed Leinster to find a winner against Munster, although they would have been level with McShane’s side on four points.

They would have taken the tournament lead on the head to head result, having seen off the Leinster men the day before.

The goal would not come, however, and Munster were crowned champions.

Dublin ladies turn on the style at Wright Venue  sport@gazettegroup.com

Dublin stars Fiona Hudson, Emma Colgan, Paul Flynn, Siobhan Woods and Niamh McEvoy. Picture: Peter Hickey

DUBLIN Ladies GAA will be showing another side of themselves as they take to the catwalk for the biggest event in the players’ social calendar.

The world’s of sport and style will collide at their annual fashion show, which takes place in the Wright Venue, Swords, on Saturday, October 27.

GAA heroes Bernard Brogan, Paul Flynn, David Curtin and Shane Durkin will strut their stuff, alongside players from the Dublin Ladies U-14s, U-16s,

minor and senior teams as part of the fundraising event.

Hosting the event is St Brigid’s Joanne Cantwell, herself a former Dublin footballer and face of RTE Sport.

Styling the Dublin Ladies GAA is fashionista Catherine Condell who will be showcasing the latest looks for the season at the show.

Another Irish fashion icon and presenter of RTE’s Off the Rails Live, Sonya Lennon, will head up a guest panel of judges to find the winner of Dublin’s Next Top Model and will also secretly scan the audience for Best Dressed

during the event. The show will feature sportswear and party wear with brands such as Elverys, O’Neills, Debenhams, Penneys, Cari’s Closet, Louis Copeland and Peter Mark hair stylists.

Dublin’s dynamic half-forward and All-Star in 2011, Paul Flynn is one of the GAA stars lining out on the night: “I’m used to a very different kind of stage, though I’m really looking forward to taking part in the show. It will be a great night”.

Speaking on behalf of the Dublin Ladies Association, chairperson Maureen King said: “This

event will raise funds to support and invest in the development of Dublin Ladies GAA, ensuring that the inter-county players of today and the future have access to the best in class coaches, equipment, structures and practices to compete and enjoy playing at the highest level.Come along and support the girls - there’s more to Dublin Ladies GAA than what you see on the pitch!”

Tickets are priced €20 (€15 for U-18s). Visit www.dublinladiesgaelic.ie to find out more details or contact the ticket office on 086 0285539.

18 October 2012 MALAHIDE gazette 29

Gazette

Achill invitation has Jade high as a kite Jade O’Connor is making big waves on the world kite-surfing scene, one which was given major recognition with Olympic inclusion for Rio de Janeiro in 2016 confirmed in April this year DUBLINER Jade O’Connor has been included among an elite list of just 33 riders to compete at the prestigious Aer Lingus Kite Surf Pro (KSP) championships in Achill Island.

The event runs from October 19 to 28 and is the first time a world-level event of this ilk will come to these shores.

Following a 14th place finish at a European championship event in La Baule, France, and 34th in the worlds in Sardinia in the past month, O’Connor is delighted to have been offered the chance to take on the challenge.

The arrival of the tour adds another boost for

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

the growth of the sport in Ireland coming a few months after kite-surfing was named among the Olympic disciplines for 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.

For O’Connor, this is the ultimate aim after a number of years making her name on the pro tour, something that would not have been possible up to now.

“I’m in the process of putting together a campaign to represent Ireland

in 2016. It’s made a substantial difference,” she told GazetteSport.

“Now that nationalities are on the line rather than people if you like for podium places, there’s a huge injection of support in terms of coaching, equipment and sponsorship. It’s ramping up left, right and centre which is really awesome. Previously, a pro career would be a very difficult one.”

The sport combines elements of wake-boarding and surfing with the aid of a kite acting as a sail, making for a physicallydemanding three-dimensional challenge.

O’Connor got into the sport after a life on the water, her earliest memo-

Jade O’Connor is Achill-bound this weekend for on the Kite Surf Pro tour

ries going to the Shannon while she started sailing when just five years of age.

She rose to international level in both mirrors and catamarans, competing at world championship level in her college days.

regularly at international level. If there is an event in Australia or Miami, you have to be there.

“Particularly for Ireland, because we don’t have that many athletes for us to train among ourselves, we always have to go abroad. That just

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‘It doesn’t matter what sport you compete in, you have to compete regularly at international level. If there is an event in Australia or Miami, have to be there’ --------------------------------------------------------

She has since become not just a sailing instructor but also can teach surfing and wind-surfing but the kite version has become her over-riding passion.

With that Olympic inclusion, it is now something she hopes to pursue full-time if she can get the funds together with a three-year programmer likely to cost in the region of €250,000.

“With the Olympics on board, our outlook has to be professional even though it’s called an amateur game. I have sponsors on board – Cabrinha and Pure Magic - but ultimately, it is all hinging on getting a benefactor until next May when the Sports Council will come on board.

“It doesn’t matter what sport you compete in; you have to compete

makes it expensive.”

The event in Achill offers the perfect chance to showcase her talent. Ireland was hand selected as one of just four tour stops as a result of its exposed Atlantic seaboard on the west coast and extended reefs. It has long made Ireland a hidden gem in the surfing community, known colloquially as the “cold water Hawaii”.

“We’re lucky top have the KSP arriving which is a world invitational tour.

They have four events a year and only invite the best riders and only use the best locations at the best time. These guys do not sell out.

“I’m just really happy to be out on the water every day, pursuing my passion but to get recognition and to be able to compete at that level is a huge honour.”

FastSport

Shillington honoured with Cricket Writer’s award MALAHIDE and Ireland batswoman Clare Shillington was presented with a special Cricket Writer’s of Ireland (CWI) award for Outstanding Performance last week following her exploits over a glittering career.

She became the first woman to win 100 caps for Ireland in September when she also scored fifties against Pakistan and Bangladesh and her maiden international century against the Netherlands.

The event took place on home turf in Malahide cricket club and was the last one to be presided over by chairman Robin Walsh, who steps down from the CWI when he becomes Cricket Ireland president in 2013.

The occasion was tinged with sadness too, as Walsh recalled the great former secretary of Cricket Ireland John Wright, another Malahide man whose 70th birthday would have been last week.

George Dockrell collected his second notable award of the 2012 season as he was named Russell Court Hotel player of the year, his second award from CWI too, having previously won an ICC associate player of the year award.

The gala evening was graced by the presence of Ireland players Gary Wilson and William Porterfield, who arrived in Dublin earlier in the evening on the third leg of their marathon charity cycle around Ireland.

They told the attendance of their exploits on the road and were heartened by the great reception and support they have been getting throughout the country.

They were joined in Malahide by team-mates Trent Johnston, Ed Joyce, John Mooney, Paul Stirling, Max Sorenson, Kevin O’Brien, George Dockrell and James Shannon. A raffle for a signed shirt and VIP tickets to next season’s game against England yielded takings of €590 which were then passed on to Wilson by the cricket writers for the appeal fund.

Ginger O’Brien – father of internationals Niall and Kevin and a top drawer player in his own right – and Gerry Duffy were inducted into the RSA Hall of Fame which has been a popular segment of the CWI dinner for several years.

Gazette

30 malahide gazette 18 October 2012

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: perth left frustrated by missed United chances

Malahide make pressure pay in second half show MALAHIDE picked up their second win from three outings in Leinster League division 2A as they ran out 19-3 winners at Portlaoise last weekend.

The home side were relegated from division 1B last season and have high hopes for an immediate return to the higher level.

However, it was Malahide who started the stronger, dominating early possession and spending much of the game in the Portlaoise half. A few final passes went astray to keep the sides locked at 0-0 before Portlaoise gained a foothold in Malahide territory.

The half ended with Malahide attacking. They thought they had broken the deadlock only for the final pass to right wing Eoin Barber to be judged forward just before he touched down.

But they finally broke through 15 minutes into the second half after some clever kicking from Brendan Carpenter, Dave Williams and Colin Corkery ensured that Portlaoise again spent much of the time on the back foot.

Carpenter converted a straight forward penalty and extended the margin in similar fashion soon after.

In this golden spell, a Niall Crookes offload gave Ger Mullarkey the opportunity to make big inroads into the Portlaoise defence. Mullarkey’s pass found skipper Eamonn Gleeson who dived in at the corner for the game’s first try.

Portlaoise responded with a three-pointer of their own and came close to adding a try, requiring some great fringe defence work from Keith Harrell, Crookes and Eoin Cannon to keep their line intact.

It proved Portlaoise’s last meaningful assault on the Malahide line as a rehearsed backline move almost saw Colin Corkery get in for a score. But when the ball was recycled, replacement Sean Power found space in the left hand corner to increase the Malahide advantage to 16-3. As Malahide continued to keep the pressure on a further penalty within kicking range allowed Carpenter to bring the score to 19-3.

Portlaoise looked out on their feet at this stage and although they tried they could not breach the Malahide defensive line. The win moves Malahide into third place in the table going into next week’s crunch tie at home to league leaders Roscrea.

The Malahide United LSL Sunday Senior team prior to their league tie with Bluebell United last Sunday at Red Cow

’Bell tolls for Malahide lsl sunday senior Bluebell United Malahide United  Carl Duffy

2 1

sport@gazettegroup.com

TWO well-taken goals either side of half time prevented Malahide Utd extending their unbeaten run to six games and moved Bluebell Utd into second place in the LSL Sunday Senior.

In an evenly contested match throughout, Malahide had the first real chance of the game on the 25-minute mark when some good link up play with the midfield and the forwards resulted

in Gareth Logan finding space 25 yards out, where he was able to turn and shoot, forcing Carl Coleman into a good save, tipping the ball over the crossbar.

The visitors continued to press and create chances with captain Barry Slattery and Mark Logan leading the charge but a counter-attack from Bluebell nearly resulted in them taking the lead.

A long ball played in from their defence, was met by Shane Stritch who did well to turn his marker and drive in a low shot, forcing Stephen Trimble to dive to his left

football for all United youngsters enjoy Special day members of Malahide United Special

Olympics club, pictured with Shamrock Rovers mascot Hooperman, recently took part in the inaugural, FAI-hosted naugural Football For All national club festival.

The event showcased the talents of children with disabilities, representing over 20 FFA clubs across Ireland and was proudly supported by the National Dairy Council.

Picture: Jason Clarke Photography

and put the ball out for a throw-in.

The opening goal eventually came when the ball was controlled on the half way line by Mark Higgins who took the ball around his marker and hit a good finish past the outstretched keeper that went in off the inside of the post, putting the visitors up 1-0.

Bluebell equalised just before the break when Darragh Killeen knocked the ball past his marker and drilled in a low cross into the six-yard box which was met by Stritch who placed the ball into the top corner.

Bluebell continued in the second half in the same manner that they completed the first and duly took the lead in the opening minutes. A defensive lapse by Malahide led to a well taken goal by Darragh Satelle to put the home team ahead.

Bluebell could have stretched their lead further in the second half but were thwarted by the goalkeeping attributes of Trimble, who made a string of great saves to deny Robert Douglas attempts on goal.

Malahide finished the game the strongest and

will feel unlucky not to have equalised as they had a number of chances created by substitute Gary Murphy but were unable to get the elusive goal as Bluebell held on for the win.

Malahide manager, Vinnie Perth was “very disappointed” with the end result of the game as he felt his side had “done enough, particularly in the first half, to win the game” but just lacked the “killer instinct” at times. He feels that his team will learn from their mistakes and continue to aim for a top three finish this season.

18 October 2012 MALAHIDE gazette 31

 sport@gazettegroup.com

ST Sylvester’s ladies moved a step closer to Leinster glory as they beat Wicklow’s Tinahely 1-16 to 3-6 in Broomfield last weekend, setting up a provincial semi-final date against Kildare’s St Laurence’s.

It was not one of their smoother performances

of the year but Sinead Aherne’s 1-7 along with five Niamh McEvoy points and four from Katy Slattery saw them over the line.

In the first half they squandered a lot of possesion, especially in the first half when they missed three shots at goal, including one rocket from Slattery that crashed off the

crossbar and rebounded 20m, along with half a dozen point efforts that went wide But the second half brought an improvement in score conversion with Aherne in particular returning to her best form and McEvoy making some strong runs that led to excellent points.

Having trailed for most

of the match, Syl’s went ahead with around 10 minutes to go, got to what seemed like a safe lead of four points only for Tinahely to pull it back to a point with a third goal.

With a minute to go, Syl’s got back to four points with a classic Aherne goal made by an inch-perfect pass from Anne Clarke.

hurling: maynooth in the syl’s crosshairs

Gazette

ASDFASDSAF Aherne’s late goal sees Syl’s through Club Noticeboard st sylvester’s LEINSTER intermediate club championship semi-final: St Sylvester’s 1–16 Tinahely 3–6.

relief.

Minor football A championship: St Sylvester’s 2-5 Ballyboden 1-8.

The ladies took a step closer to

Sylvester’s didn’t score for the

Leinster glory by beating Tinahely

first 20 minutes but they managed

of Wicklow in a nail-biting encoun-

to level the scores by half time at

ter at Broomfield on Sunday after-

five points each.

noon.

The game could have gone either

Having trailed for much of the

way in the second half with both

game and, with a minute to go, Syl-

teams showing great spirit and

vester’s got back to four points

determination.

with a classic Aherne goal made

The big game this week is the sen-

by an inch-perfect pass from Anne

ior football championship quarter-

Clarke.

final against Kilmacud Crokes in

The final whistle came as a great

Parnell Park on Wednesday evening.

naomh mearnog ON Saturday, we host the annual

12 and 13 teams. The camogie girls

Gaelic4Mothers tournament. The

kept the flag flying high also.

usual helpers will be required. Contact Frank Lynch.

All pitches at the clubhouse will be

Both sides can now look forward to

occupied with the tournament all

finals. Well done to all our mentors

day. This is a great day’s entertain-

and players.

ment. All are invited to come along and admission is free.

Also on Saturday at 4.45pm, our senior footballers have a vital league game away to Erin’s Isle. Support is needed so please come along.

Clubhouse manager, Eamon Cosgrove is running in the Dublin City Marathon in aid of Crumlin Children’s Following a successful Dublin intermediate hurling championship campaign, St Sylvester’s now take on Leinster

Naughton’s charges step into new realm  peter carroll sport@gazettegroup.com

TOMMY Naughton’s intermediate hurlers have set their crosshairs on a Leinster junior championship clash with Maynooth, a team that the former Dubs manager insists will pose a “very interesting” test.

They closed out their league campaign with a draw against St Jude’s last weekend, missing out on promotion.

But Naughton believes that earning a place in senior hurling is more than enough recompense.

“I think we were unlucky,” said Naughton.

“We had a big slump at one point and that took our momentum away.

“We were more focused on the championship, I think everyone is and the fact that we have senior hurling for next year has made it a very successful year already and now we have the Leinster championship to look forward to.”

Having seen off Round Tower of Clondalkin in the intermediate championship final, 2-9 to 1-8, he believes his men have enjoyed a big boost in confidence, something

that will help them in their Leinster clash.

“It’s a brilliant atmosphere to have in the dressing room; the lads are very confident in their hurling at the moment and that can only have a positive result when it comes to the Maynooth game.

“We have a lot of minors that are ready to come through for next year – the work that has been done with that side is absolutely unbelievable – so that should help us as far as legs are concerned.”

With the Maynooth showdown scheduled for Saturday, October 21, he

says his team will rise to the occasion but stressed that the experience that the side will get from playing opposition that they aren’t familiar with is the key bonus from this run.

“A lot of teams we have played, we would be quite familiar with on the Dublin circuit so it will be interesting for the lads to pit their skills against a side they don’t know.

“Maynooth are a good side. Leonard O’Carroll went out and had a look at them and he was impressed. I hope the lads can get a win and continue on in the tournament,” he finished.

The Under-16s defeated Raheny and the Under-13s overcame Ballyboden.

With the dark winter night’s approaching, we would like to remind all members that the clubhouse is a continous hive of social activity.

On Monday nights we have one of the best traditional Irish nights around.

Our card players do their stuff on Wednesdays.

Hospital. There are sponsorship

We have our monthly ceili. We have

cards in the bar. Please support this

keep fit classses, drama, chess and

very worthy cause.

lots more.

Our Under-16 footballers put in a fine performance to defeat St Mark’s and qualify for the league semi-final.

We had wins also for our Under-10,

All ma jor spor ting events are shown on our big screens.

Food is served all day. Our function rooms and our bar can be hired for a variety of functions.

Fingallians INTERMEDIATE championship foot-

matches are on the main pitch and

ball final: Fingallians v Cuala, this

the cost for entry is €5 per child.

Saturday, October 20 in Parnell Park at 6pm.

For those who did not receive their Kellogg’s Cul camp bags dur-

The last seven days saw the club in

ing the camp they are now ready

four championship semi-finals. We

for collection on Saturday morn-

advanced to the finals in the inter

ings from the club shop. Please

after extra time and U-15C champi-

present your voucher in order to

onship finals but our U-12A girls and

obtain your bag.

U-15A boys were defeated.

Please contact our office if you

The 2012 Coaching Conference will

wish to book the hall or bar for a

take place on Saturday, October

Christmas party on 01 8400125 or

27 in the main hall. Speakers will

email fingallians@gmail.com.

include George O’Connor and Sean Kelly - Leinster master tutors.

The rescheduled hurling mini allIreland will take place this week on

The club will host a Bric a Brac sale on Saturday, November 24. Each team will host/manage/organise one table.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

For those teams interested in

The U-7 and U-8s are on at 6pm,

fundraising, please contact Deir-

U-9 and U-10s are on at 7pm and

dre at dfinn@cisco.com (further

the U-11 and U-12s are on at 8pm. All

details to follow).

GazetteSPORT all of your malahide sports coverage from page 27-31

united feel the blues: Malahide undone by Bluebell at the Red Cow by late Satelle strike P30

October 18, 2012

scaling new heights: Jade O’Connor on how kitesurfing is taking off P29

Niamh McEvoy, left, burst into life to score five points in St Sylvester’s victory over Tinahely in the Leinster ladies football club championship semi-final Picture: Peter Hickey/GAApics.com

Syl’s perfect preparation Malahide ladies just one step away from back-to-back Leinster titles after making it through to the provincial club semi-final  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

ST Sylvester’s are looking forward to a rematch of their junior Leinster final from last year when they face St Laurence’s this weekend off the back of one of their toughest tests on their epic run of the past few years.

It comes hot on the heels of a closely fought semi-final that stood out to many as one of the games of the year, getting the better of Wicklow’s Tinahely.

Brian Sullivan claims that although the semifinal may have taken the wind out of the team’s sails for a few days, they couldn’t have had a better game to keep them focused on the task

at hand come Sunday at 2.45pm in Athy when they meet Kildare’s St Laurence’s.

“It was a fantastic game,” Sullivan started, “it was so evenly matched we took a slight lead early on but Lucy Mulhall showed her intercounty prowess for Tinahely all day and they went in at the break with a lead.

“Sinead Aherne, Niamh McEvoy and Katie Slattery came alive for us in the second half and Aimee Hazley and Anne Clarke grafted very well. We thought we had the job done when we were leading by four points coming up to the final whistle.

“The referee added on four minutes and Mulhall went straight for us and scored a fantastic goal. When Sinead came back with a goal of our

own we were ecstatic, it was a real roller coaster of emotions for the spectator.

“It definitely had a few of the girls tired the next day but, as far as intensity goes, it was the perfect preparation for the final,” said Sullivan.

Sullivan remembers the St Laurence’s team of last year to be a very skilful bunch of players with a fantastic ability for point scoring. The Kildare club have recently amalgamated with another local club, a move that has increased their inter county representation and depth of squad which should make the game an extremely tight affair.

“I think with the newly amalgamated team they have about six intercounty players in the team, they were already a fantastic team when we played them and they have apparently

improved a significant amount since then.

“We prepared for the semi-final with Tinahely with a challenge match against DCU and the All Ireland 7s; we’ve had to slightly tone it down for this one after such a tough semi, but we’ve had a game against St Anne’s to get us ready for this one.

“We know we have to challenge for every ball and work for every minute of the final and the girls couldn’t have asked for a better character builder than the semi-final.

“I’ve said it before: if any side want to beat us they will have to show up on the top of their games. It comes down to one game and it’s a very close one to call, but I have every confidence in my team,” finished Sullivan.