The latest news and upcoming events from in and around Clontarf.http://www.clontarf.ie/news/minister-joan-burton-pays-a-visit-to-clontarfHosted by local T.D. Aodhan O'Riordain, Clontarf today had the pleasure of the company of Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton. She was welcomed by Chair of the Clontarf Business Association, Gus O'Hara and she also met members of the CBA committee and others from the business community. Topics for discussion included the upcoming Fiscal Compact Treaty as well as other matters relevant to local business owners.  The Minister had a short walk about and also visited Holy Faith school towards the end of her visit. Some photos of her visit are included in the attached album: http://www.clontarf.ie/gallery/minister-joan-burton-visit-to-clontarfFri, 18 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/latest-report-from-clontarf-historical-societyYet another full house attended the talk at the society's last monthly meeting on Monday 14th May and heard a fascinating account of Clontarf as it was in the mid-18th century, and how it evolved over the next two hundred and fifty years. Professor Colm Lennon used, as his reference, John Rocque's 1756 map of Dublin and its environs to recreate a mental picture of Clontarf as it was at that time. This map was the first detailed survey of the county, and its quality and accuracy are so good that places, roads, coastline, and houses are easily recognisable despite the enormous change that has occurred since. Professor Lennon is an acknowledged expert on Rocque's map and his skill in describing not just how the changes came about but also why they happened made his presentation so enthralling. The Royal Irish Academy is continuing its publications in its Irish Historical Towns Atlas series and to complement Parts 1 & 2 on Dublin, by Howard Clarke and Colm Lennon respectively, publications on County Dublin are planned. The first of these, currently being written by Colm Lennon, will feature Clontarf. Publication date is not expected until the end of 2013, but when it does appear it will be a 'must have' book for every house in Clontarf.  Thu, 17 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/joyced-a-special-performance-at-the-viking-theatre'Joyced!' returns to the Viking Theatre for one night only on the 20th May as a special performance to raise funds to stage this successful show and represent Ireland at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.  This fund raising project has been organised by Breda Cashe, a well known Irish Director, who recently directed 'Tuesdays with Morrie' at the Viking.   The Viking Theatre are particularly delighted to stage this performance given that it was their inaugural performance back in November 2011. Written by renowned Irish writer Donal O'Kelly, directed by Sorcha Fox and performed by Katie O’Kelly the show looks back at 1904 through the eyes of JoJo, a stallholder in Dublin's Rathmines Market, with a dangerous obsession for all things Joycean.  The show has recently enjoyed a very favourable run at the earlier this year at the Bewley's Cafe Theatre, and received positive reviews.  Staging the show at the Assembly Rooms for the Edingburgh festival is a costly business, and this production will rely entirely on contributions from patrons and public donations.  If you are unable to attend but would still like to help support the show in Edinburgh please visit http://www.fundit.ie/project/joyced-by-donal-okelly  where you can make online donations and receive a reward for your generosity.   Tickets for the event are limited and will cost €20.  To book your ticket, or find out more, call Laura or Andy at 087-112 9970.Wed, 16 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/crows-nest-golf-classicThe Dollymount 5th Port Sea Scouts, who are celebrating 100 years of sea scouting on the Bull Island, will be hosting their Annual Golf Classic in the Royal Dublin Golf club on the 29th of June. Morning tee off times are between 10am and 12pm, and afternoon tee off times are 2pm - 4pm.Mon, 14 May 12 12:19:10 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/midsummer-fair-at-st-john-the-baptist-churchA Midsummer Fundraising Fair will be held in the Parish Centre of St John the Baptist Church, Clontarf Road on Saturday the 9th June and Sunday the 10th June. Mon, 14 May 12 12:03:36 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/special-production-of-joyced-at-the-viking-theatre'Joyced' is a one woman show starring Katie O'Kelly. As a special fundraising event to help raise the necessary funds to stage the show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival the Viking Theatre is hosting a one-off performance of this special show on Sunday 20th May. This show was the The Viking Theatre's inaugural show back in November 2011.Mon, 14 May 12 11:49:26 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/tuesdays-with-morrie-returns-to-the-vikingFollowing a three week run, and due to huge popular demand, this production, directed by Breda Cashe and starring Andrew Murray (theatre director at the Viking) and Terry Byrne, returns for a further two weeks. Adapted from the autobiographical story by Mitch Albom, this story will make you cry, think, feel but above all will make you laugh. Mon, 14 May 12 10:33:11 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/new-photos-of-clontarfMany thanks to Kwan Wanchai who sent us in some photographs that he took in Clontarf over the last year. It's a small but attractive collection with pictures of Dollymount Strand, the seafront in Clontarf and St. Anne's Park. Click here to view: http://www.clontarf.ie/gallery/images-of-clontarf-dublin If you have photos you would like to send in, please email them to us at info@clontarf.ieMon, 14 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/open-day-for-new-pupils-at-belgrove-junior-girls-schoolThere was great excitement at Belgrove Junior Girls school last Friday morning as the pupils due to start in September were invited in for the customary advance visit to the school. There were plenty of nervous faces - and that was just the parents! The morning went very well though with the children getting a chance to meet their teacher and have a sit down in their new classroom. Meanwhile the parents were treated to a short musical show by the existing junior infant class who gave a very polished performance. There were also presentations by Patricia O'Donoghue, Principal of the school and Caitriona Casey, Chairperson of the Parents' Association. A very successful morning all round and it should hopefully make the transition to 'big school' much easier for the pupils involved. Well done to all of the staff at the school and the volunteers from the Parents' Association.Sun, 13 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/the-cathy-durkin-cancer-treatment-fundThis is a story which has touched the hearts of many of us over the last number of weeks.  Cathy Durkin, a Northside woman fighting an aggressive form of cancer has vowed to donate money that was raised for her treatment to charity.  Cathy Durkin (41), needed €85,000 to pay for a ‘miracle drug’ called Ipilimumab, which she was told could not be covered by the HSE or private health insurers.  However, the HSE recently announced that the drug will now be made available to up to 200 patients in Ireland, who fall within a strict criteria, including Cathy. A major fundraising campaign spearheaded by Cathy’s family and friends had collected a staggering €72,000 up until May 4.  On her website, Cathy said "I am overjoyed,...we didn’t think we would get this far with the campaign. We thought that after it got out into the public domain it would just fizzle out.  It goes to show what people power can do.  We haven’t decided yet what charity the money will go to.  It will have to be discussed with the fundraising committee.”  Cathy and her family and friends will continue to fundraise to help other patients in similar situations.  Cathy and her husband Michael, both chefs, have published a book full of tasty recipes called 'The 7 Day Meal Planner'.  Clontarf residents can purchase it in O'Hara's Spar on Vernon Avenue, and also in Jack n' Jill in Clontarf and Malahide. The book costs €5 and all proceeds will go to the Cathy Durkin Cancer Treatment Fund. You can read more about Cathy's story on her website here.   Clontarf.ie wish Cathy and her family all the best in the future.....Thu, 10 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/calling-all-model-cititzenshession-hairdressing-salon-campaign-june-2012Hession Hairdressers, with one of its flagstores on Vernon Avenue, Clontarf, are looking for five new faces for their next salon campaign shoot this June.  The successful entrants will receive €250, a gift card, a complete hair and image makeover, and the chance to have yourphoto taken by Barry McCall, fashion photographer to models and celebrities. Closing date is May 18th, so if you're a guy or a girl, between 18 - 35, and think you have what it takes, read on..... "Have you ever wondered if you were given the chance to work with a professional team of  hairdressers, make-up artists, stylists and photographers that you might have what it takes to be a model? Have you ever dreamed of your name in lights and your face gracing the cover of magazines.... here is your chance to make your dream a reality. Hession Hairdressing; a name that evokes images of glamour and impossibly beautiful hair have an opportunity for you not to miss.... a chance to be the face of this iconic brand and become synonymous with style, elegance, grace and sophistication in Ireland.  A second generation business, the Hession Hairdressing family secret has been passed down from generation to generation. Hession's pride themselves in" fabulous hair for everyday" and in keeping with this motto Hession Hairdressing are searching the country for 5 people to represent this iconic brand.  Hession Hairdressing are on the lookout for a mix of girls and  guys 3 girls aged between 18 and 35 to become the face of this award winning salon and model in their 2012/2013 campaign. This chance of a life time will see you become an integral part of this award winning salon team and experience behind the scenes of a top photo shoot first hand with professional photographer, Barry McCall. Barry has photographed some of the world's most famous people including, Sophie Dahl, Collin Farrell,Saoirse Ronan,Helena Christensen, Claudia Schiffer, Yasmin Le Bon, Michael Fassbender and Richard Branson to name but a few.  For your exclusive chance to be the face of the cutting edge advertising and PR campaign for this hairdressing magnate simply send 2 digital photographs via email to competitions@publicityloft.com before 5pm, May 18th 2012. One close up shot with hair left down and little or no make-up and a second full length shot both with a plain background. Please title the email HESSION CAMPAIGN COMPETITION and include your name, address and age, along with a contact phone number. Digital entries only will be accepted.  Entries will be short listed and requested to attend a casting the end of May with the finalists shooting the campaign early June. Each person involved will win €250 plus a gift card for a complete hair makeover including colour, cut, treatment, blow dry and home maintenance goodie bags...  For your chance to be part of the Hession Wall of fame simply send in your photos and prepare to be part of this iconic brand! For more details, follow Hession Hairdressing on Facebook www.facebook.com/hessionhairdressing or visit www.hessionhairdressing.ie" You can also find all contact details at Clontarf.ie at this link....  www.clontarf.ie/clontarf-hairdressers/hession-hairdressingWed, 09 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/the-bull-fundraiser-walk-this-saturdayOverdo it at the bank holiday? Come stretch your legs at the Bull Fundraiser Walk this Saturday at 2pm! Get down to the Rugby Club for 12.30 for registration and to drop in your sponsorship card. There are two walks to choose from, a 5k or for those up for a challenge the 10k walk. This will be yet another great day out for the club with all proceeds going towards the refurbishment of both the rugby and cricket clubhouses. Click below for more details and to download a sponsorship card. GO THE TARF! http://www.clontarfrugby.com/news/the-bull-walk/Tue, 08 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/viking-theatre-may-previewAs previously noted on Clontarf.ie, the Viking Theatre has now been open for six months. Their recent show, Tuesdays with Morrie was a huge success and they have a strong upcoming programme for May. Clontarf TV caught up with Theatre Director, Andrew Murray who along with co-director Laura Dowdall has been the driving force behind the success of the theatre. He previews the next 2 plays at the Viking which are 'Hollywood Valhalla' which starts this Wednesday and 'Ergophobia' which starts the following week. He also talks about the possible return in August of 'Tuesdays with Morrie' which he himself starred in alongside another Clontarf man, Terry Byrne. Finally, he reflects on the first 6 months at the new Viking Theatre. You can view the video here (2 minutes 2 seconds)Mon, 07 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/congrats-to-clontarf-under-16s-teamCongrats to Clontarf Under 16's Team who won the Sean Stratton Cup Final last weekend at Kirwan Park, the home of De la Salle Palmerston. 21 teams participated over three weekends from Ulster, Leinster and Connaught in a blitz format competition. Clontarf  under 16's had not played together in the club since under 14 age level when they were runners up in the Leinster Schools Youth League. This tournament was designed to bring Schools Junior Cup players back to their clubs with a view to them playing in under 17's competitions next season.  Read the full story on the Clontarf Rugby Club websiteSat, 05 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/simon-open-door-reminderDon't forget that the Simon Open Door event is on next weekend. So, if you're dreaming of a few changes about the house then don't forget to make an appointment with one of your the local architects who are participating in the event. This initiative is organised by The Simon Community and the Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland. This is the 8th year of the event and it takes place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May. A donation of €50 buys a 1 hour consultation with an architect of your choice. Clontarf.ie is pleased to note that a number of the local Clontarf practices are volunteering their time to participate in this event and they would appreciate your support for them and for the charity. So far 3RRR Architects, Davey + Smith, Gareth Brennan Architects and Ailbhe Cullen have all signed up.  You can find out more about what's involved and how to register at http://simonopendoor.ie/  Fri, 04 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/the-ossia-youth-choir-summer-concert-The Ossia Youth Choir are holding their Summer concert on Wednesday, 30th May at 7:30pm in the Clasac Theatre. The choir is made up of children from 9 - 16 years old who have a passion for singing together. They will be performing a selection of the repertoire rehearsed throughout the year including songs by Adele, Coldplay, Kings of Leon, Florence Thu, 03 May 12 12:12:33 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/bark-in-the-park-sponsored-dog-walk-in-aid-of-the-irish-blue-cross-The Irish Blue Cross animal welfare charity is holding its first of three annual 'Bark in the Park' Sponsored Dog Walks on Sunday 27th May at 3pm in St Anne’s Park in Clontarf. Hundreds of participants are expected to turn out for this hugely popular family day out and fundraising event. Last year, the total raised over the three events was €12,500 towards a new mobile veterinary clinic for the charity’s services for sick pets. On the day there will be goody bags with canine and human treats, prizes for the dogs, and a raffle with some great prizes. Thu, 03 May 12 11:10:24 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/battle-for-the-bay-kitesurfing-and-suping-competitionCelebrating the 6th anniversary of Pure Magic Kitesurfing, the Battle for the Bay returns Saturday May 26th and Sunday May 27th. Riders and spectators all welcome and the promise is fun, wind, water…and more fun!!! The best riders in the country and also riders from around the globe, will come and compete in one of Ireland's best kitesurfing locations. Thu, 03 May 12 10:46:39 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/battle-of-the-bay-summer-2012 Battle for the Bay - Could you be the new Kitesurfing King or Queen? The 6th annual Puremagic Kitesurfing and SUPing competition takes place this May on the 26th & 27th on Dollymount Strand.  This sport has seen a big increase in popularity in the last few years, and this event is sure to draw a large crowd, whatever the weather. This a great visual feast - right on your doorstep! The best riders from all over the country will be competing in this event at what is rated one of the best spots in Ireland, and there will be something for everyone including demonstrations of new equipment on the beach, a freestyle show, kite introductions for novices, bbq and a beach party later on that night. The event will also feature Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUPing), the new sport trend which originates from Hawaii, and Puremagic will be on hand to give demonstrations and offer free trials. The competition will be broken down into mini contests and entrants can compete for a any or all stages of the competition and possibly win points.  For every point won, a raffle ticket is awarded, and this will increase your chance of winning in a number of raffles held at the end of competition.   But there will be one serious battle for the extreme title, and only one King and one Queen will return to take those trophies.  Daytime will be hardcore competition, and nightime is set to be hardcore partying, so staying power and stamina levels will be tested in both ! Dollymount Strand is one of the two beaches used by IKSA in Dublin and on any given weekend, a large gathering of kites can be seen flying over the water, as a testament to how popular this sport has become.  Puremagic have been training and supplying kitesurfers from all over the county for 6 years from their shop on the Clontarf Road.   A great success story....keep the magic happening in Clontarf!Thu, 03 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/news/dart-disruption-for-may-bank-holidayDisappointing news for Northside travellers this Bank holiday weekend....if you were planning on a jaunt out to or from Clontarf on the DART this weekend, you will have to make alternative plans.... Irish Rail have announced that they have scheduled works for this Bank Holiday weekend which will result in there being no train service between Connolly-Malahide and Connolly-Howth stations, on Saturday 5th, Sunday 6th and Monday 7th May, 2012. These resignalling works will mean that the following stations will be closed over the weekend:  Portmarnock/Clongriffin/Howth/Sutton/Bayside/Howth Junction & Donaghmede/Kilbarrack/Raheny/Harmonstown/Killester and Clontarf Road. Irish Rail have stated that Dublin Bus will accept all valid DART tickets for this affected period. The full details of how the DART and commuter services are affected can be found at this link.  Wed, 02 May 12 00:00:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/the-parting-glass-at-the-viking-theatre A story of love, family, friendship, turbulent economic times and Thierry Henry’s left hand! Where were you when our World Cup dreams were dashed? Eoin was at the heart of the drama in Stade de France, Nov 18th 2009. Reunited with Mick and Shane, the three amigos on that fateful night… After emigrating to Germany to find work during the 80’s, Eoin made a new life for himself with the help of his wife Frieda and son Dieter. Now he returns to an Ireland that has boomed and bust. Tue, 01 May 12 10:30:00 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/red-stables-art-exhibitionRunning for six days, the Prospect Art Group will be holding an Art exhibition in the Red Stables Gallery from 11am - 6pm each day.Tue, 01 May 12 10:01:37 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/art-mcgann-memorial-golf-classic-in-aid-of-crcThe CRC Art McGann Memorial Golf Classic will be held on Friday, June 22nd 2012. Entry fee of €600 per fourball will secure your time slot. The format will be a four ball stableford, and morning and afternoon tee times will be available. Wonderful prizes, superb four course dinner served in the members Dining Room and a golfers goody bags for each player. Mon, 30 Apr 12 12:19:21 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/date-for-your-diaryWe've received confirmation that the Clontarf Summer Festival 2012 will be held on Saturday, 9th June and will run from 1pmn till 7pm. We'll update you with further details as they come to hand, but we do know that this year is going to be even bigger than last year so keep the date free!Tue, 24 Apr 12 11:42:56 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/bull-island-action-group-litter-pick-up-6Bull Island Action Group are an organisation that get volunteers together to clean beaches and sand dunes on Dollymount Strand, the Bull Wall, parts of the causeway and the inner shore of North Bull Island. Mon, 02 Apr 12 12:41:42 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/bull-island-action-group-litter-pick-up-5Bull Island Action Group are an organisation that get volunteers together to clean beaches and sand dunes on Dollymount Strand, the Bull Wall, parts of the causeway and the inner shore of North Bull Island. Mon, 02 Apr 12 12:40:09 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/bull-island-action-group-litter-pick-up-4Bull Island Action Group are an organisation that get volunteers together to clean beaches and sand dunes on Dollymount Strand, the Bull Wall, parts of the causeway and the inner shore of North Bull Island. Mon, 02 Apr 12 12:38:51 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/bull-island-action-group-litter-pick-up-3BBull Island Action Group are an organisation that get volunteers together to clean beaches and sand dunes on Dollymount Strand, the Bull Wall, parts of the causeway and the inner shore of North Bull Island. Mon, 02 Apr 12 12:37:25 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/crc-burma-challenge-2012The Central Remedial are recruiting now for its’ 2012 Challenge to the Golden land of Burma. Mon, 02 Apr 12 10:47:25 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/the-central-remedial-clinics-annual-sale-of-workLots of fun for all the family. Pick your way through a selection of jewellery, accessories, art, household goods, toys Mon, 02 Apr 12 10:42:11 +0100http://www.clontarf.ie/events/gothic-and-ghostly-readingsJoin in an evening with the Dracula Stoker Organisation who have invited guests to read favourite pieces from the collection of Bram Stokers' works in the Viking Theatre at 7:30pm.Wed, 14 Mar 12 11:25:58 +0000http://www.clontarf.ie/events/international-cricket-ireland-vs-afghanistan-Two World Cricket League Championship matches will be held in Clontarf between Ireland and AfghanistanFri, 02 Mar 12 13:22:28 +0000http://www.clontarf.ie/events/clontarf-historical-talk-by-barbara-walsh‘When the shopping was good – Woolworths and the Irish main street’, by Barbara Walsh.Wed, 01 Feb 12 12:42:25 +0000