< Previous© September 2018 The Meath Coaster40Please mention The Meath Coaster when replying to advertisementsTHE VIEW FROM THE KITCHEN TABLE, By Geraldine HughesWell – What a summer that was! Doors and windows have been flung open for a few months now. I went on a two-week holiday and enjoyed the same weather we were having here, and came home to a garden of burnt sticks where my plants once were. We had a hosepipe ban and tar melting on the roads (which I remember hap-pening as a kid) summers spent on Port-marnock beach, and because no one used Sunscreen, frequent uncomfortable nights crying with sunburn. I thought this was all fanciful daydreaming on my part until I heard a guy on the radio one morning who has studied the weather in Ireland for the last 200 years. He says that the last 40 years were the wettest summers we’ve ever had and that this dry hot summer is in fact more typical for Ireland! In fact, drought was a part of life here before and if you’re over 40 and think your summers were great as a kid, you’re probably cor-rect. This does pose some problems though. Our air -con units are woe-fully inadequate to cope with the heat, and working in a hair salon is tropical .It’s hard to maintain a pro-fessional demeanour while perspiration is dripping off the end of your nose.so I did threaten to turn up in my swimsuit and a sarong but thankfully for everyone Oasis Childcare Centre Mornington, Co. Meath Crèche, ECCE, Montessori Playgroup, After School Contact: 041-9888135 Now enrolling for SEPTEMBER 2018 Early booking advisable! DO NOT BE DISSAPPOINTED East Meath’s Leading Childcare Provider for 13 Years www.oasischildcarecentre.com ONE CHILD ONE LIFE ONE PRE-SCHOOL EXPERIENCE Since 2005 our loyal repeat customers & 100% occupancy tells you that we deliver the highest quality, affordable childcare in the East Meath area. We are family run and not part of a chain. Enrol with us and make sure your precious child gets the best! it didn’t quite get to that, but it highlighted how badly equipped we are for high tem-peratures – our fabrics are wrong for it, we have no siestas, we try to keep going at our normal pace, and since its so rare, a lot of us (me) were treating every sunny day as a celebration worthy of cracking open a bottle of white, which had to stop or I’d have been in the Betty Ford clinic by the end of July. So, if this is going to be the new norm, we need to start borrowing ideas from hotter climates. Water butts are an easy way to get around hosepipe bans. Linen is the fabric to wear if you can get away with it. I love it on other people. On me it looks like I fell into my wardrobe, and rolled back out in a shapeless crumpled mess. I wish my family would remind me of this when I decide Linen is lovely and cool and wearable (every year on holidays). It may very well be all of those things but not on me. I think Siestas might catch on but only if we all understand that we have to back to work after them. I know they are blaming Global warming for this heat -same cause as the snow apparently (insert eye roll here) -but hey! maybe it’s just a natural phenomenon. Either way I enjoyed every minute of it and I hope that guy on the radio was correct (or my version of what he said)-and burned up plants and melting roads aside, I hope we get more summers like this one §HOUSEHOLD SERVICESBG PAINTING & DECORATINGInterIor & exterIor25 YEARS EXPERIENCE REFERENCES AVAILABLEFREE CONSULTATIONS & ESTIMATESWALLPAPER ALSO AVAILABLEContact Brian 086 7308449Call Nicky - 041 9887128 087 7734344 A Local BusinessCosmic Cleanwww.cosmicclean.ieT&Cs & Minimum Charge appliesMAJOR DISCOUNTS for Multiple RoomsRug Collection & Delivery Service AvailableProfessional Carpet & Upholstery CleaningSPECIAL OFFER!Noel SavageElectrical Services20 Years Experience • Security LightingFuseboard Upgrades • Rewires, Extra Sockets • Lights, Fully Insured and RegisteredNo Job Too SmallBettystown, Co. MeathMobile: 086 2518898Moloney Boiler MaintenanceBarry Moloney - Heating Engineer• Oil Boilers Services and Repairs• Aga Cookers• Central Heating Power Flush• Installation of Central Heating Filters• All Aspects of Heating & Plumbing - Commercial / ResidentialFree Quotations, All Work GuaranteedMobile: 087 3337488barry@moloneyboilermaintenance.ie TREE SURGERY Trees Topped, Trimmed or Removed incl. root destruction and removal. Stump GrindingHEDGE CUTTING & SHAPING. OLD GARDEN SHEDS & FENCING REMOVED All green waste removed, Driveway, Patio, Power-washed, Gutter cleaningSpecial OAP RatesFree Estimates, Fully Insured, Long Experience4 SEASONS GARDEN SERVICESContact Jim 085 1163631-042 6030099No Job Too Big or Too SmallTusla inspected€16 per session(part time place)Ample Car Parking GAA Clubhouse StamullenOpening Times:9am ·12pmWe offer ECCE From 2-8 yearsPart time places from 2-5 yearsOur Montessori staff are qualified, dedicated to providing kind, warm, tentative and a satisfying learning experience to each child 086 2162872 lamhabeagaanmhi@gmail.comCOMPUTER PROBLEM?Contact Oliver 041.988.7526 087.797.0740iPhones Smartphones RepairLaptop/Desktop Repair & UpgradesPlease mention The Meath Coaster when replying to advertisements© September 2018 The Meath Coaster42Drumgoole Financial Services is regulated by The Central Bank of Irelandoran@drumgoolebrokerage.iewww.drumgoolebrokerage.ieUnknowingly Underinsured - Restructuring Mortgage Protection A new study undertaken by a leading life company has found that many families who fell into arrears on their mortgage during the recession may now be underinsured on their mortgage protec-tion policy. The impact of the recession resulted in around 1 in 8 mortgage holders, at its highest in 2013, falling behind on their payments. As mortgage protection policies generally cannot be restructured, in most cases a new policy would need to be put in place to reflect the fact that the mortgage isn’t reducing or to match the revised mortgage agreement.While no one likes to keep considering is-sues relating to their own or loved ones’ mortality, it’s important that policy owners take the time to reassess if their cover is ad-equate especially if they have a family with an ongoing need for a home to consider.The case study looked at a couple who had taken out a €300,000 mortgage for 30 years in 2004, the couple also took out the equivalent amount of mortgage protection. In 2014 their bank agreed to switch them to interest only for 4 years and they then return to full repayment in 2018. Should either pass away the individual left behind would currently have a payout shortfall of €11,569 – that being the difference be-tween what they owe and what a typical mortgage protection policy would cover.When the interest only period ends, the lender will re-establish repayments in one of two ways. They may extend the term sufficiently to ensure that if the homeown-er resumes the monthly repayments at the original amount the loan will clear, usually after an extra couple of years. Or they can increase the regular repayment amount so that the arrears are repaid over the original mortgage term. Either way, there’s likely to be a shortfall. The higher the repay-ment, the quicker the shortfall may reduce.There are a number of situations where mortgage holders in arrears enter into spe-cial agreements with their banks where it would be necessary to review or amend the mortgage protection cover in place to avoid any underinsurance. Some options designed to help the homeowner stay in their home are as follows;1. Interest Only – over one year (probably beyond 2 years) regardless of whether the term is extended or repayments are increased in the remaining years2. Interest Only – up to one year3. Reduced Payment (less than interest only)4. Reduced Payment (greater than interest only)5. Term Extension6. Arrears Capitalisation7. Payment Moratorium8. Deferred Interest Scheme9. Split MortgageHave questions or would like to chat about this topic? Contact Oran on 087 668 6624 or visit www.drumgoolebrokerage.ie for more information. §Mammy Day CareCrèche, Montessori & AfterschoolFull and part-time careECCE Free pre-school yearsAffordable childcare schemeAfter-school careLarge outdoor play area3 months to 12 years of age catered forStamullen, Co. MeathE: info@mammydaycare.com T: 01 690 5333/086 8286927We wish all our past Montessori children the best of luck in Big SchoolClasses Available InPiano, Keyboard, Ukuele, Guitar - Classical, Acoustic, Bass And Electric, Violin - Traditional / Classical, Viola, Tin Whistle, Piano Accordion, Drums, Singing - Voice Coaching - Classical And Musical TheatreJunior And Leaving Cert Music.Private one to one classes also availableTel Olive On 087 2603079 For DetailsEstablished Since 1990.Lessons Based In Drogheda Grammar School, Mornington Road, Drogheda. Toccata House Music School, Drogheda.Re-opening Aug 27thCreative writing classesBarlow house, Drogheda. Starts Mon 17th Sept. 2-4pm. Ardgillan Castle Balbriggan Wed 19th Sept 10.30am-12.30pm www.balbriggan.info/clubs and classesCost €120 for 10 wks. Contact Ros on 085 1395320. E: ros1_@hotmail.com. Tusla inspected€16 per session(part time place)Rural SettingGormanstonOpening Times:9am ·12pmWe offer ECCE From 2-8 yearsPart time places from 2-5 yearsOur Montessori staff are qualified, dedicated to providing kind, warm, tentative and a satisfying learning experience to each child 086 2162872 lamhabeagaanmhi@gmail.com Bettystown AlterationsWedding Alterations and Evening WearPremises located behind the offices in McDonough Caravan Park on Triton Road (Opposite Tesco) Phone: 086 775 3 776Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm Lunch 1:30pm - 2:30pm Close Tue 2pmClothing Alterations•Wedding/Evening Wear • Leather/Suede Repairs •CurtainsSame Day ServiceTesco Fun DaySaturday 22nd SeptemberTesco is holding a funday fundraising for temple street on Saturday 22nd Sep-tember which also marks the 10 year an-niversary of Tesco opening in BettystownAll proceeds will go to Temple Street Hospital. All welcome Saturday 22nd September. See in store for further details.Bridge ClubLaytown and Bettystown Bridge Club will resume on Sept.17th. We look forward to seeing all members back and hope you en-joyed a fabulous summer.We have a few vacancies for New Members who are experienced bridge players. We play on Mondays and Thursdays in the Golf Club at. 7.15.Further details contact secretary at 086 8607413.© September 2018 The Meath Coaster44Heart HealthWith September being Irish Heart month, this is an op-portune time to look at some heart-health statistics:• Heart disease, stroke and other circulatory diseases account for 1/3 of all deaths and 20% of all pre-mature deaths in Ireland. • Heart disease and stroke is the biggest killer of women both in Ireland and internationally. However the good news is that up to 90% of heart disease and stroke is preventable through diet and lifestyle modification.Quit smoking –Smoking damages the ar-teries and is a key risk factor for heart disease, stroke and circulatory diseases.Exercise most days of the week – Exercise improves circulation, lowers blood pressure and conditions the muscles to use oxygen more effectively.Maintain a healthy weight – this reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure and high cholesterol.Learn to manage your stress levels – Chronic stress in particular is a risk fac-tor for the development of heart disease. Find time for enjoyment. Consider partic-ipating in yoga/Pilates which are proven methods of de-stressing.Adopt a “heart-healthy” diet – The fol-lowing are some simple tips on how you can support your heart through diet:• Where possible, elimi-nate trans-fats as they are linked to numerous health conditions, including heart disease.• Reduce saturated fats, particularly from animal sources.• Reduce salt intake to reduce blood-pressure levels. Add herbs and spices to food instead of salt. Beware high salt foods such as processed meats and dried soups/sauces in particular. • Increase soluble fibre which has been shown to lower levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. This fibre is found in foods such as oats, pulses and fruit/vegetables.• Eat more oily fish (e.g. salmon, trout, herring and mackerel) which is a good source of heart-friendly, anti-inflammatory Omega 3 fat. • Eat more fruit and veg-etables. These are a great source of antioxidants and fibre which help reduce ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol.• Opt to grill, bake, steam, boil or poach foods. Vegetables are best lightly steamed to retain their nutrient content.For good health's sake, look after your heart!Anna Ryan, Dip. NT, DC, mNTOIwww.nicanutrition.ienicanutrition@gmail.com §© September 2018 The Meath Coaster45Caption: Jackser Kavanagh and Barry McDonald of St.Colmcille's GAA Club alongside Superintendent Andrew Watters and Cllr Stephen McKee enjoying the FleadhCllr Stephen McKee, Thomas Byrne TD and Jim Curley alongside the legendary jockey Ted Walsh at the launch of the 'Laytown Races - Celebrating 150 Years' book at the Glenside HotelKnow Your Rights European Health Insurance Card Question. My partner and I are plan-ning a holiday in Spain. How do we access public healthcare services if one of us becomes ill when abroad?Answer You and your partner each need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card allows you to ac-cess public healthcare services if you be-come ill or get injured when travelling to or visiting certain European countries. It doesn’t cover private treatment or the cost of repatriation to Ireland if required. The countries covered by the card are the 28 member states of the EU, the three oth-er members of the EEA (Iceland, Liech-tenstein, Norway) and Switzerland. You don’t need the card for a visit to the UK if you can show that you are ordinarily resident in Ireland. In practice, this means showing a driving licence, passport or similar document. If you have a smartphone you can down-load the free EHIC app. This includes emergency phone numbers and informa-tion about treatments and costs covered. The app does not replace the card.If you already have a medical card or Drugs Payment Scheme card, you can ap-ply online for your EHIC at ehic.ie. Otherwise, you can download an appli-cation form from ehic.ie or get one from your Local Health Office. You need to provide your name, address, date of birth and Personal Public Service number (PPS number). You may also need to show proof that you are ordinarily resident in Ireland. If your EHIC has expired you can renew it online at ehic.ie. If your details have changed (for example, your address) you need to contact your Local Health Of-fice to renew the card. If you have concerns about getting a new or renewed card in time, you can get a Temporary Replacement Certificate, ei-ther online or from your Local Health Of-fice. You may also wish to consider taking out private travel insurance for expenses that are not covered by the EHIC (such as the costs of repatriation).Contact InformationAddress: 43 The High Street, Ashbourne, A84FX66, Co. MeathTelephone is 0761 07 6110 and Email : ashbourne@citinfo.iehttp://www.citizensinformation.ieInformation is also available online at citi-zensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000© September 2018 The Meath Coaster46Challenge Your Sense of Helplessness Recovery from PTSD (Trau-ma Shock or Stress) is a gradual, ongoing process. Heal-ing doesn’t happen overnight, nor do memories of the trauma There are many things you can do to cope with symptoms and reduce your anxiety panic or fear. Overcoming your sense of helplessness is the key. Trauma leaves you feeling powerless and vulnerable. It’s important to get Therapy for yourself so you learn strengths and coping skills that can get you through tough times. Positive ways of coping with PTSD: Learn and practice relaxation skills. Spend time with positive people. Get moving. Rhythmic exercise that engages both your arms and legs, such as walking, running, swimming, or dancing. Seek out local organizations that offer teambuilding op-portunities. It’s important to stay connect-ed to life and the people who care about you. The caring support and companion-ship of others is vital to your recovery. Reach out to someone you can connect with for an uninterrupted period of time, someone who will listen when you want to talk without judging, criticizing, or continually being distracted. That is what us Therapists do . Eat a healthy diet. Start your day right with breakfast, and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nu-tritious meals throughout the day. Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can trig-ger anger, irritability, and moodiness. Aim for somewhere between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Develop a relaxing bedtime ritual Getting Professional Help The sooner treated, the easier it is to overcome. Therapy is not a sign of weakness, it’s a way to confront what happened and learn to accept it as a part of your past. Made easy with the guidance and support of an experienced therapist like myself. It’s natural to want to avoid painful mem-ories and feelings. Trying to numb your-self and push your memories away, makes only get worse. You can’t escape your emotions They emerge under stress or whenever you let down your guard—and to do so is exhausting. Treatment and therapy Treatment for PTSD (or Panic Stress Anxiety) helps you deal with the trauma. A therapist will encourage you to recall and process the emotions you felt during the original event to reduce the powerful hold the memory has on your life. During treatment you'll explore those thoughts and feelings, work through feelings of guilt and mistrust, learn how to cope with intrusive memories, and address the prob-lems it has caused in your life Medication is sometimes prescribed to re-lieve secondary symptoms of depression or anxiety, although they do not treat the causes. This is why Therapy is recom-mended for you. For therapy to work, you need to feel comfortable and understood. So start with a consultation . Text or phone me today 0858126677 to arrange yours now. Bernice Mc Kenna (Psychotherapist) (MICHP) §© September 2018 The Meath Coaster47Cllr Stephen McKee & Paula Egan in the newly-reopened Village Hotel, BettystownPLEASE PLEASEHELPKEEP OUR BEACH SAFE AND REPORT SPEEDING OR DANGEROUS DRIVING TO THE GARDAI041 9827074(WHY NOT ENTER THIS NUMBER IN YOUR MOBILE PHONE NOW)If possible try to take a photograph of the offending vehicle to show registration number and the driver, the Gardaí will take action.We, as beach users, must try to protect ourselves by reporting Dangerous Driving and Anti Social Behaviour to the Gardaí.This is the only way we can make our beach safe for all and be able to enjoy this wonderful natural amenity.This notice has been placed by concerned citizens of Laytown, Bettystown and Mornington.LAYTOWN BETTYSTOWN MORNINGTON LAYTOWN BETTYSTOWN MORNINGTONLAYTOWN BETTYSTOWN MORNINGTON MEATH'S GOLD COAST MEATH'S GOLD COAST MEATH'S GOLD COAST MORNINGTON LAYTOWN BETTYSTOWN Ella and Eabha McKee enjoying the Summer daisies.© September 2018 The Meath Coaster48Pictures here from the presentation in August following the Lady Captain's Prize at Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club Laytown & Bettystown Golf ClubLady Captain, Rita O'Connor, presents Eleanor Grimes with the winner's prize in this year's Lady Captain's Prize at Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club.Tríona Mee is presented with the Runners-Up Prize in the Lady Captain's Competition at Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club by Lady Captain, Rita O'Connor.Lady Captain, Rita O'Connor presents Lorraine Lynch with the 3rd prize in the Lady Captain's Competition on July 28th last at Laytown & Bettystown Golf ClubOverall best gross score winner in the Lady Captain's Prize 2018, Carol Wickham, is presented with her prize by Lady Captain, Rita O'Connor.© September 2018 The Meath Coaster49Hospice Fundraising Cheque PresentedAbove is the presentation of two cheques following the Annual Hospice Golf Clas-sic at Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club. In all €18,000 was raised on the day and the beneficiaries were East Meath Hos-pice and Drogheda Hospice Homecare.The photo shows - left to right - Brian Clerkin, Aileen Regan, Bryan Col-lins (Captain Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club), Mena Ball (Treasurer East Meath Hospice), Jennifer Hewson (PRO Drogheda Hospice Homecare), Rita O'Connor (Lady Captain Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club), Rita Lennon, Olive Sheridan and Mi-chael Breheny.East Meath Meals on WheelsThe Committee of East Meath Meals on Wheels would sincerely like to a group of hard working Committee Members of East Meath Meals on Wheelsthank all those who supported their golf classic at Laytown & Bettystown Golf Club on July 20th last. The entire day was a huge success with 44 teams playing, 25 tees sponsored and lots of people contrib-uting generously to the raffle that evening. With the help of players, local businesses and event sponsors, Berna Carthy (Chair-person East Meath Meals on Wheels) was delighted to announce that €9,000 was raised this year to assist in the running of this brilliant service in the local community.Next >