Little Free Library -Rush
Rush Tidy Town is delighted to announce the launch of our Little Free Library. This is located just below St. Joseph’s School on Convent Lane. Take a book or leave a book. This is the latest initiative in our mission to promote the circular economy and addresses several of the sustainable development goals. Big thanks to Diana, Ken and Paula for pulling this together. It now appears on the official little free library map on google. Make sure you make use of this amazing new addition to the town next time you go to South Beach.

Tayto Crisp Packets
Following on from our find of a 50-year-old Tayto crisp bag in August 2021 which news story went viral, in the last two weeks during a beach clean and lobster fishing expedition, Paula and Ben have found two more antique bags in the sand and rocks on the South Beach. One with a 4P price tag from circa 1971 and one costing 7P from 1978. An aluminium lined crisp bag can take up to 100 years to disintegrate so this shows the importance of making sure we dispose of our rubbish correctly.

St. Catherine’s National School is clearly strong with the Force this Star Wars Day as they are preparing for a gathering of both Jedi and Sith for a fun filled day of Star Wars themed activities. Following the extensive use of locations throughout Ireland in the latest Star Wars trilogy, which culminated in 2019’s Rise of Skywalker, and the success of the critically acclaimed series Andor, interest in the Star Wars franchise in Ireland has never been greater. May the Fourth is internationally recognised as Star Wars Day with events taking place in Dublin, throughout Ireland and across the world. St Catherine’s National School think that their event might just possibly be the first Star Wars Day event in the galaxy to be hosted in the Fingal area. St. Catherine’s Parent’s Association Chairperson Matthew Semple said, “St. Catherine’s are inviting children up to 6th class, so primary or national school age, to our Star Wars themed party at 5pm on May Fourth. They can expect party games, a Jedi Master Class and an intergalactic disco featuring a Jedi versus Sith Dance-Off. It’s time to bring a galaxy far far away to Rush so Star Wars outfits are strongly encouraged.” Tickets are now on sale for the event which is just €4 per child. Details of how to buy tickets will be shared on the Parent’s Association Facebook Group and other local Facebook Groups. See you there, we will.

Lusk: Foroige’s young people have recently shown their community spirit, kindness and generosity by completely making over the garden section of the community centre in Lusk. Foroige currently uses the ground in Lusk for our group and cafe sessions for the young people in the local area. The group felt it was important to give back to their community and show their appreciation to the community centre for their continued support in relation to allowing us continued use of the space. We also felt it was important for the community to recognise that the young people are getting involved in pro-social activities that teach them a new skill and allow for them to express themselves in a positive light.
Rush:As well as current groups we have in Rush, Foroige are happy to invite young people to our Rush cafe every Wednesday 7-9pm in Rush community centre for young people aged 14+ .

Due to popular demand, St Catherine’s National School Parents’Association is hosting a multi-cultural day at the school on Friday 23rd May 2024. The last Multi-Cultural day which took place in 2018 was a massive success, was extremely well attended and received attention in the national press. The event celebrates the celebrates the diverse and varied community here in Rush with an opportunity to sample the music, cuisine and national dress of countries from all over the world. This year’s event is supported by Fingal County Council who have kindly agreed to sponsor the Multicultural Day. St. Catherine’s National School Parent’s Association Chairperson Matthew Semple said, “We are delighted to be revivingone of the most successful events that we have ever hosted at St. Catherine’s National School with our upcoming Multi- Cultural Day. Diversity is truly one of the great strengths of our community in Rush and St Catherine’s is proud to be a school with pupils from across the globe. With such diversity in our school we think it is only right that we both embrace it and celebrate it. St Catherine’s would like to extend an invitation to the whole community of Rush to come to our school on Friday 23rd May 2024 where you will find Céad Míle Fáilte!.” More details will be shared on the Parent’s Association Facebook Group and other local Facebook Groups closer to the event. If would like to have your own stall at the event, please feel free to contact St. Catherine’s National School Parent’s Association for more information – email chairpersonPA@stcatherinesns.ie

In a heartwarming gesture, Tesco Rush recently visited, bringing not just a generous cheque of €634 from the Blue Token Scheme but also a delightful array of books for the members to enjoy. Gratitude overflowed as the community came together, each token representing a contribution of support. The cheerful generosity extended further as friends from Alone, represented by Gillian and the team, left behind Easter Eggs for the members—a gesture that added a touch of sweetness to the season and warmed many hearts. Amidst the festive spirit, the community Centre hosted a thriving St. Patrick’s Day celebration, replete with tea, sandwiches, and cakes. The event made possible by the dedicated efforts of Brian, Debbie, and their team, showcased not just merriment but also unexpected surprises, such as Brian’s hidden talent as a guitar virtuoso. Laughter and joy filled the air, creating cherished moments of connection and camaraderie. Looking ahead, the community eagerly anticipates upcoming excursions that promise adventure and exploration. Destinations like Dail Eireann, The Botanic Gardens, ALSAA, Newbridge House, and Ardgillan Castle have already been included in the itinerary, with funding assistance from Fingal ensuring the realization of these enriching experiences. The anticipation is palpable as more destinations might be added based on popular demand. The recent addition of valuable information sessions, featuring Citizens Advice, and upcoming sessions with the Garda and Coastguard, continue to enrich the members experiences, providing them with essential knowledge and resources. Encapsulating the spirit of togetherness and support, Monday meetings remain a highlight, offering not just laughter and friendship but also a warm cup of tea to all who attend. For those interested in joining or learning more about the activities, the Community Centre warmly welcomes visitors every Monday between 12 and 3 (excluding Bank Holidays). Contact details are available for further inquiries, ensuring that anyone interested can easily connect and become a part of this vibrant and caring community. Phone/WhatsApp: 0892711406 Email: rushseniorcitizens@gmail.com

The Balbriggan\North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind guidedogs.ie was founded 35 years ago in 1989 approximately 2 years after Tom O’Neill from Balbriggan got his first guide dog Frank. People saw the huge difference the guide dog made in Tom’s personal life and his mobility and began the fundraising and awareness branch of the organization.

Right now, the branch is seeking additional volunteers especially in Rush and Lusk to expand their work there. Guide Dog Day is Friday 24th of May and that day the branch needs every volunteer they can find so please contact the branch by Facebook, telephone, or email with an offer of help or to chat about what way you might be able to get involved in. If you are considering the ladies mini-marathon, Sunday 2nd of June, think of us and give us a shout. A guide dog gives a blind person independence and freedom, and an assistant dog gives a child with Autism confidence and independence in their daily lives.
To contact the Balbriggan\North Co Dublin branch of guide dogs please phone/text 085 7663107, or Email: GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com

Follow us on social media: On Facebook: facebook.com/Balbriggan.Branch.of.Guide.Dogs
On Instagram @Balbrigganbranchguide
On X @BranchGuide or indeed

To watch Tom and his guide dog Gatsby working: youtube.com/watch?v=t9uhWNBiC08

Rush Cricket Club would like to wish Rush Local the best of luck.The cricket season kicks off in April and Rush Cricket Club are always open to new and old players taking part in the sport in our lovely town of Rush. Formed in 1931 and currently based on the Skerries Road we are an inclusive and welcoming club in the town of Rush offering top class cricket facilities along with a fully stocked bar for our supporters and visiting teams. We offer cricket to all from the ages of four up to as long as you can hold a cricket bat. With a range of Juvenile teams (U7 to U17) and six adult teams made up of 4 Men’s teams and 2 Women’s teams playing in the Leinster leagues. Training for ages 4-11 begins in May which take place every Friday evening from 6.30pm – 8.30pm and weather permitting allows for the parents to stay, spectate, and enjoy a BBQ. We are always looking for parents to get involved also to help man the BBQ, assist mentoring a team or play social cricket with other parents. Rush Cricket Club has steep history in Irish cricket and has helped to produce senior Irish Internationals including Eoin Morgan, Fintan McAllister, Neil Rock and Stephen Doheny and no doubt the next one is not far away. Please contact rushcricket@gmail.com or Patrick Monks (Hon Sec) 083 0752197 for further information on getting involved.

In the heart of Fingal, Rush Boxing Club stands as a testament to the dedication, skill, and triumphs within the world of combat sports. Offering a diverse range of disciplines including Boxing, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), this club has become a breeding ground for champions. Among the notable recent success stories are Ellie and Chloe Lawrence, who etched their names in history as Rush Boxing Club’s first female league champions. Their journey symbolizes the club’s commitment to fostering male and female talent. Carson McCarthy’s recent victory in the Dublin championship not only adds another feather to the club’s cap but also propels him into the prestigious All Ireland competition. His success underscores the high-calibre training and coaching provided at Rush Boxing Club, positioning it as a force to be reckoned with in the national boxing scene. The club’s structured class schedule caters to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Junior boxing classes are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5:15 to 6:15 pm, ensuring a nurturing environment for young enthusiasts to learn the fundamentals of the sport. For Seniors, the training intensifies from 6:30 to 8:00 pm on the same days, providing a platform for aspiring fighters to hone their skills and compete at higher levels.Rush Boxing Club not only focuses on physical conditioning and technique but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and discipline among its members. The atmosphere is one of mutual support and encouragement, creating a community that goes beyond the confines of the training mats.As Rush Boxing Club continues to produce champions it solidifies its standing where passion, dedication, and skill converge to create a legacy of excellence. Whether you are a beginner looking to embark on a boxing journey or an experienced fighter aiming for championship glory, Rush Boxing Club welcomes all with open arms.New members welcome to join, contact Paul at 086 379 9603.

Ball Busters women’s football club was formed by Amanda Bracken and Tanya Christie, two friends from Lusk with a passion to play competitive football without the restrictions of playing on an actual team. Two mammies that still wanted the buzz of winning a game but having the craic at the same time. One afternoon after chatting through one of their many notions they decided to start up Ball Busters, a social indoor soccer group, and so it began, February 2023, the beginning of something special. On night one, we thought we would have loads of girls but 6 turned up, we thought all we had to do was organise it and people would show but that was not the case. Through hours of hard work and dedication, we have built a WhatsApp group of over 80 ladies, we rent 3 out of the 5 astros in the Soccer Dome in Santry, with upwards of 40 ladies coming each week. We organise outings, have nights away, we have been to Wexford to play Courtown Hibs and have just come back from Bangor where we played 2 teams and won both matches, we have also done a bungee fitness class, we are very much a social group. We have built something that the ladies look forward to each week and keep coming back. For women in sports week, we will have 60+ ladies in the Dome, who all came together for the same reason, play ball, and have fun. We have built a very supportive environment for everyone, all levels are welcome, if you miss a goal no one is going to shout at you. We are so lucky with the mixture of girls we have, they are such a lovely bunch, there is never a cross word between any of us. It has given us all an outlet, something we can do for ourselves. So why not come and join us.

Our first feature this month is about Marram Grass planting on our Sand Dunes. On Sunday the 3rd of March 30 volunteers from Rush Clean Coasts group and from further afield planted Marram grass on part of the Sand Dunes on South Beach in Rush. Coastal Erosion is a constant issue, with the sand dunes disappearing bit by bit. The Marram grass however helps tie the sand together and provides at least some form of barrier to erosion. Aine Lawless from Clean Coast Ireland oversaw the planting process with the volunteers transplanting the grass from densely populated areas to the bare section of dunes. Rush Clean Coasts plan to have a further event later in Spring.

Next is a timely reminder regarding our very popular seed swap event. That is: we will be holding the first of our community seed and plant swap events for 2024 in early April. See our Seed Event flyer for details. Also we remind you of our Sunday Morning Litter Picking - Thank you to Rush Sailing Club for doing a super clean up around their area, and to our usual Sunday morning litter picking volunteers who cover the town. We also had some of the Tiny Towns gang out and about litter picking in the sunshine. If you would like to get involved in any of the above activities or have any questions in general, please drop us a line on tidytownsrush@gmail.com.