Connect Lifestyle Magazine February 2020

- Get Fit and Healthy For 2020 The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

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Planning your big day

Guide to Fashion and Venues

Aoife Hearne

A REAL APPROACH TO HEALTHY EATING

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2 | Connect Kerry | July 2019

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EDITOR'S NOTE Hello and welcome to Connect January is done and dusted for another year, the evenings are starting to get brighter, so we have lots to entertain you in this issue.

It’s the month of Love and we have ideas for your special day if you are planning a wedding. Wedding dresses, cake, music, the perfect venue and Tonya brings us her A-Z of Irish Weddings which you will find very interesting and speaking of love there are some ideas for those romantics who like to remember Valentines Day. We are also looking at getting the body into shape for spring, and we chat to Aoife Hearne of Operation Transformation who has lots of tips and advice and we welcome more new contributors to Connect to bring you the latest health advice for you and your family. We have some advice to get you off the couch and get you in shape, Nora has once again some recipes that are delicious on the lips and won’t sit on the hips.

The final call is out for nominations for the Annual Connect Kerry Hair and Beauty, if you have someone in the industry that you feel is deserving of an award email us their name and contact details and why you want to nominate them to margaret@ connectpublications.ie So, sit back relax and enjoy your favourite monthly read and don’t forget if there is something happing in your life or your area that you would like to share with us, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Until next time...

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Print: Kingdom Printers Photography: John Walsh Photography 066 7123777 Email: info@johnwalsh.ie | www.johnwalsh.ie Contributors: Marcas Mac Domhnaill, John Canty, Marisa Reidy, Caroline Smith, Lisa Curran, Aine Fitzgerald, Dr Deirdre Fanning.

Beauty Editor: Romy Birdthistle For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

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A Real Approach to Eating Well

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By Marisa Reidy

S

he probably wouldn’t like to admit it to her current Operation Transformation leaders, but RTE’s resident dietician Aoife Hearne is letting Connect readers into a little secret – she is a self-confessed chocoholic!

Mind you, while admitting to indulging in a daily chocolate treat, the mum-of-three jokes that that doesn’t mean she sits down to a Mars Duo every evening.

Refreshingly honest and enlightening on so many levels, Aoife insists that she is 100% anti-diet and prides herself on offering trusted advice on achieving sustainable and manageable healthy eating habits and weight loss goals.

Asked about her path to her now hugely successful career in dietetics and nutrition, Aoife laughs as she recalls some of her early, ‘questionable’ choices. Because she was really focussed on athletics at the time and saw that as all she wanted to do, Aoife took a year out after her Leaving Cert and did a secretarial course – but ‘hated every second’ of it!

“I had also gotten a place in UL studying European Studies – I don’t know what I was thinking,” she laughs, “and then I deferred a place in Brunel University in London in Sports Science, which is probably more likely as I knew it was something sporty and ‘sciencey’ that I was more interested in.”

But during that year out, things took somewhat of an unexpected turn for Aoife when she was offered an Athletics scholarship in the US and decided it was an opportunity she could not turn down.

“So I started doing Business during my first semester there - which again I don’t know what I was thinking - but one of the classes that everyone had to do there was Nutrition 101. The professor there was so inspiring. I can still see him – a small little man with a beard - and from that day I just decided that nutrition was what I wanted to do. That’s where it all started,” Aoife explained “I went to the University of Rhode Island for two years and then I transferred to the University of Tennessee because, at that stage, I still wanted my running and athletics to be better than it was and I felt the change of university might help,” Aoife continued. “I was there for three years and after graduating I did my dietetic internship for a year and when I passed my registration exams I worked in Savannah, Georgia for nine months and then I decided to come home.”

Having seen first-hand pros and cons of working in a US hospital, Aoife felt that working in the same environment in Ireland ‘wasn’t the right fit’ so she took the brave move to open up her own business – in thanks to the wonderful support of her parents in Waterford.

“I felt that working for myself was ultimately what I wanted, so I came home in 2005 [at the age of 25] and literally converted the front room in my parent’s house to a little office and I started from there.” Aoife explained. “I’ll never forget my first two patients, they were a couple, and they both did really well and referred people on, and that’s really how it all started.”

Since then, Aoife has been operating her private practice in Waterford City, where she sees both individuals and corporate clients. She revealed that she also worked with the Tipperary hurlers for almost 10 seasons, which she loved as it allowed her to get back into the competitive side of things which she missed from her Athletics days.

So how does someone like Aoife end up as one of the most recognised dieticians in Ireland, appearing on RTE’s hit show Operation Transformation for almost seven years?

“Dr Eva [Orsmond] was leaving the show and they were looking for a dietician to join and literally they contacted people around the country,” Aoife explained. “A friend of mine, who’s actually a dietician in Kerry, said she had been contacted and wasn’t sure about it and I thought ‘God I’d love that.’ So I chatted to them and went for a screen test and it took off from there.”

4 | Connect Kerry | July 2019

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Connect | Lifestyle always be that someone could have a biscuit or two in a day, enjoy it and get on with it as part of their normal day,” she said. “I mean, I do. Generally, I eat a small amount of chocolate or biscuits every day without fail and I enjoy those, but that said I don’t have a Mars Duo at the same time.

It takes time to be able to trust yourself to get to that point but that really is a point we want to get at."

“A better approach to eating well and weight loss is actually giving yourself permission to eat all foods – that no foods are off limits. Because when we make foods forbidden we give them power and, as is human nature, we want what we can’t have.”

Aoife loves the role, particularly because it gives her such a great platform to offer people proper advice on healthy eating and nutrition.

“We have a really good team and we really enjoy it. It’s great because there are so many non -qualified people talking about nutrition right now that it’s really nice to have a platform to give sensible, nutritional information to the country.”

Aoife admits that she had never watched the show before she became part of the panel of experts, so had no real concept of its enormous impact. With that influence comes huge responsibility.

“It has become so much bigger than I could ever have imagined, so you can have such a big influence in what you say and the language you use,” she said. “I take that responsibility very seriously and because I’m very much anti-diet I hope that that always comes across, I suppose.”

An ‘anti-diet’ dietician may sound something of an oxymoron, but for Aoife, it’s all about balance and knowledge and not denying yourself anything...even chocolate!

“Diet mentality is all around, especially at this time of year and we’re worn out form all the commercial weight loss talk which nearly promises you will lose a stone in a day.

But it’s important to push against that,” she said. “Yes on Operation Transformation they’re probably not eating chocolate and biscuits, but ultimately my goal would 6 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

strongly within you and will stop you eating chocolate cake on the way up to bed. It needs to be a strong reason.”

Aoife insists - and research proves it that very few people who go on a strict diet and deprive themselves actually keep the weight off.

“Three pounds a month is actually a realistic, achievable weight loss. Obviously during the show the leaders will have big losses at first and that’s to be expected because they are going through drastic changes, but realistically three pounds a month is very acceptable. But when I say that to clients they don’t even want to come back and see me.”

In terms of the nations’ overall health, So what advice would Aoife give to Aoife has a major concern about the someone who is determined to make amount of processed food being this year their year, health wise? consumed and the lack of fruit and vegetables in people’s diets. She admits “What I would say is just start small. If it may sound ‘boring’ but it’s a hugely you’re not eating breakfast, start eating serious issue nonetheless. breakfast. If you’re eating Coco Pops move over the porridge, you know? Keep your expectations low but build confidence,” Aoife says.

“Often times the change is unsustainable, so it’s really about changing small things that you can do differently and do them regularly. Also, be realistic about how much weight you can lose. The research will tell us that 10 per cent weight loss is what is realistic and what is maintained.

Of course none of us want that. We want the magic wand and lose weight and be done with it.

“For me it is about making small changes that stick but also thinking about what you’re using food for. So many of us eat to numb the feelings that we don’t want to feel, so it’s important to recognise that.

It’s also vital to ask why you want to lose weight. Why is it actually important? It needs to be a reason that resonates really

“So many people are surviving on highly processed foods all of the time and that is definitely a concern. As boring as it sounds, we’re also just not eating enough fruit and veg or getting enough fibre. We had more fibre in our diet 100 years ago than we do now. If there was any simple advice I could give people it’s to focus more on things they need to bring into their diet than what they need to cut out.”

As a mum of three small children under five, Aoife is also very passionate about children’s eating habits – but, interestingly, not particularly what they’re eating!

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Connect | Lifestyle “My biggest concern with our children today is their relationship with food, not necessarily what they’re actually eating. They’re perceived to be good for eating broccoli and bad for eating a biscuit. So I think moving away from those kind of things is so, so important and we’re not doing that,” she says.

“Even in schools children are still getting rewarded with food and it’s so damaging to a child’s relationship with food when we’re using it as a reward. So for me, the key thing - and what I do with my three children - is having a more mindful and intuitive approach to eating so they eat when they’re hungry, they stop when they’re full. There’s treats, they have them, they enjoy them and we get on with it. We focus too much on only the healthy food when the relationship with food is far more important.”

So for those who feel it’s too late to undo the damage they may have caused by years of unhealthy eating, what is Aoife’s advice?

“Oh God, it’s never, ever too late. And it’s not about weight only.

What we eat has a big effect on our health, irrespective of our weight. What I really encourage people to do is have other measures of success that are not just weight based. Some people focus on scales and scales only and that can make a happy day or a sad day. Of course when trying to lose weight, checking it is important as it keeps a measure on things, but ultimately we need people to trust that they eat as much as they need and know when their clothes are still fitting that’s good. What you do over time is what you become. You don’t change without change.”

For those interested in more of Aoife’s trusted and practical nutrition and weight loss advice, her book ‘The Plan – Eat Weight, Lose Weight, Transform your Life’ is available on her website www.aoifehearne.ie.

Operation Transformation, meanwhile, continues every Wednesday night on RTE 1 at 9.35pm.

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Wedding Venue Guide Every love story is magical but let Ballyroe Heights make yours unique...

Are you looking for style, splendour and a castle to call your own?

Celebrating 20 years in business in 2020, this family owned and run business has been voted Top Wedding Venue in Kerry for seven consecutive years in the WeddingDates Awards and most recently won Top Rated 3* Wedding Venue in Ireland and Top Rated Wedding Venue in Munster. These awards and customer reviews are a testament to the high standard of customer service and quality the team strive to achieve.

The beautifully styled and dressed Gallery and Summit Suites provide the perfect romantic setting to take your vows, leaving you only steps away from the rest of your special day.

Our all inclusive wedding packages comprise of everything from pre-dinner welcome reception to the evening buffet.

At Ballyroe Heights Hotel, the wedding team put a huge emphasis on the wants and needs of all their wedding couples by offering exceptional value wedding packages which include many extras complimentary hair and makeup for the bride the morning after by Beautique at Ballyroe.

At Ballyseede Castle, weddings enjoy old-world elegance, combined with modern day comforts. The castle was awarded Wedding Venue of the year at ‘Connect Kerry – Hospitality Awards’. Also voted Ireland’s Top-Rated Castle Wedding Venue for the third year running by wedding couples on Wedding Dates and Best Place to Stay in Munster at The Gold Medal Awards.

The multi-award winning Ballyroe Heights Hotel is located on the outskirts of Tralee, overlooking magnificent views of the Sliabh Mish Mountains and Tralee Bay. One of Ireland’s most enchanting venues, this landmark hotel is the perfect place for your perfect beginning.

To arrange a viewing with our wedding co-ordinators or request a brochure, please call now on 066 712 6796 or info@ballyroe.com

The magnificent Ballyseede Castle offers an authentic Irish castle wedding experience like no other. Set on a 30-acre estate of manicured gardens and ancient woodlands, it is the perfect backdrop to any couple’s wedding day. The traditional castle is family-owned and run, with 45 en-suite bedrooms.

The elegant surroundings of Ballyseede Castle, coupled with privacy and space, all combine to make a most treasured venue for wedding couples and their guests to celebrate their wedding in style, each wedding is individual and special. At Ballyseede Castle, they understand the importance of a couple’s wedding day better than anyone and have built a reputation based on excellence and meticulous attention to detail.

Enjoy a drinks reception in the Orangery, take family portraits in the gardens with the castle as a backdrop and allow your guests to enjoy every inch of this enchanting castle. Feast on an outstanding meal in the company of your friends and dance the night away.

Ballyseede Castle is a recognised venue for the civil registration of marriage, which allows wedding couples to celebrate their marriage in style in the historic Stone Room surrounded by family and friends.

Alternatively, if a couple would prefer to say their vows amid the great beauty of the outdoors, overlooking the manicured gardens may be the perfect setting to say “I do”.

We Love Weddings and All You Need is Love for the Perfect Wedding Day!

Here at the Kenmare Bay Hotel and in partnership with All You Need is Love Stationery Design & Calligraphy, we are delighted to offer complimentary wedding stationery to our couples who book their wedding with us for select dates between May & October 2021.

As well as an extensive pre-designed collection, All You Need is Love offer a bespoke stationery design & calligraphy service, working closely with you through consultations and mood boards to make your invitation dreams become a reality. Their creative offerings include venue & floral illustration, watercolour art, modern calligraphy and more.

Together with All You Need is Love, we want to make it that bit easier for our couples and what better way than giving them the invitations of their dreams.

For your perfect day, look no further than the Kenmare Bay Hotel. www.kenmarebayhotel.com Contact Sile on 064 66 79300 or sile@kenmarebayhotel.com

10 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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Bespoke Weddings at the Listowel Arms Hotel

The Listowel Arms Hotel has been gaining much deserved recognition from industry experts in the past years for their beautiful weddings, including the treasured Team of The Year recently awarded by Connect Magazine. The boutique hotel has created a unique wedding venue around its Georgian period hotel on the banks of the river in Listowel and helps couples plan bespoke weddings from 50 to 350 guests. “We are delighted with the feedback from our customers says Patrice O’Callaghan, wedding coordinator at the hotel. Wedding couples and guests are very happy with our service and the quality of our food. We put a huge effort into each wedding to make sure it’s exactly as the couple dreamed of, it’s really about listening to each couple’s wish list and making that list a reality. Weddings are all about small details, you don’t have to have a huge budget, a bit of style goes a long way to creating something special. I think the age and history of our hotel with its Georgian features lend itself perfectly to weddings as a period building gives the day an extra touch of class”. … what a fantastic day put on display by Patrice & her team. Every detail was spectacular we were blown away as they continued to exceed all our expectations for our wedding. I cannot recommend Listowel Arms highly enough from the warm welcome, creative design, incredible food, stunning views, spectacular rooms our guests & ourselves were given first class treatment.

From the bottom of our hearts thank you xxx Claire & Cilliaan The Listowel Arms Hotel, Listowel, Co.Kerry: www.listowelarms.com, tel. 068 21500 Photos by WhiteCatStudio.com and the Listowel Arms Hotel

Weddings at Killarney Heights Hotel

The Heights Hotel have over 40 years’ experience in hosting weddings. We know and understand how special of an occasion it is and that you want your day to reflect you both as a couple.

The Heights Hotel runs as a one wedding a day venue meaning you and your guests have that feeling of exclusivity on your wedding day and know that yours will be the sole focus of our attention.

Our experienced and attentive Wedding Team will be there for you as your first point of contact from your initial enquiry until the day you say, ‘I Do’ so you will always have a familiar face at hand that you know & trust. We will guide you every step of the way and make sure your wedding day is memorable for all the right reasons.

Our entire team prides itself on offering warm and professional assistance to you, your family & friends.

No two weddings are the same and yours will be tailor made to reflect you both. The Heights Hotel has two wedding dining areas which can cater for weddings up to 350 guests and provides the perfect wedding setting; spacious, bright & neutral decor with stunning views of the surrounding Torc & Mangerton Mountains.

At The Heights we provide those little extras that really tie everything together. Creating a day bespoke to the two of you is incredibly important to us and we will help bring your vision to light. After all, our motto is ‘Your Wedding, Your Vision, Your Way’. We believe that every wedding is unique and yours will be extraordinary.

The Heights Hotel Killarney, Cork Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland Phone: + 353 (0) 64 663 1158 | events@killarneyheights.ie www.killarneyheights.ie

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Beautiful Weddings at the Earl of Desmond The Earl of Desmond hotel has been a popular wedding venue for years and it’s not difficult to see why. The staff are highly trained and utterly professional, and they have built their reputations on providing countless couples with the wedding day of their dreams.

Norella Mansfield is an example of this. She won the prestigious Brides of Kerry Wedding Coordinator of the Year 2018 Award, and the Brides of Kerry Wedding Personality of the Year 2019 Award, proving once again just how exceptional the service at the Earl of Desmond can be.

Superior service isn’t all the hotel has to offer. There’s its elegant function room, which can cater for all sizes of wedding. It can seat anything from 50 to 380 guests thanks to a partition wall which divides the room in two.

The function room also has mood lighting which can be adapted to suit your needs. “We can change the colour of the lighting to suit your theme or even the colour of the bridesmaids’ dresses,” says Norella. “If you tell us what you want, we will do our best to make it happen for you.”

The hotel’s bridal room is utterly romantic. It’s bright and spacious and was recently refurbished with a modern contemporary feel. You couldn’t imagine a better place to spend your first night as husband and wife.

Photographers are always impressed with the Earl of Desmond as it’s a hotel that offers lots of photo opportunities, inside and out. Inside, there’s the atmospheric Geraldine Room, the bright lobby and the spacious bar area. Outside, there are gardens to the front and rear of the building as well as a wooded walkway leading to the river.

This is a hotel that does everything it can to turn every couple’s dream wedding into a reality. It doesn’t matter if you want a civil ceremony in the company of a small group of family and friends followed by an intimate reception or a huge church wedding followed by a night of feasting, singing and dancing; the Earl of Desmond will make it happen for you. The hotel hosts weddings from 50-380 and for smaller more intimate weddings they offer a package that can be tailor made to suit the couples budgets and needs.

Their most recent wedding offer is one offering exceptional value on an exceptional package. Featuring a 5-course choice meal, including wine for your guests, a stocked candy cart, chocolate fountain, Canapés scones and nibbles for your guests on arrival and an evening buffet to name a few of the many extras that are provided! This package starts from €55 per person, and for weddings booked for 2021, also includes up to €1000 in extras, for weddings with minimum numbers of 150.

Terms and conditions apply, but not many!

Although the Earl is seasonally closed until the beginning of March, Norella is contactable and available to meet you and she will be only delighted to go through package options with you and show you how your wedding day will be the perfect day at

“The Lodge” at Ballygarry House, for the next generation Wedding destination Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa combines rustic charm and elegance with the construction of a new ceremony venue Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa is adding to its fabulous wedding offerings with the addition of “The Lodge at Ballygarry” – a rustic inspired onsite ceremony venue which is due to launch in the Summer 2020. The Lodge is perfect for hosting a Civil, Spiritualist or Humanist ceremony at Ballygarry. The venue ensures an all-encompassing wedding offering for couples looking for a breath-taking and unique celebration. The Lodge will feature a simplistic & rustic standalone building highlighting the backdrop of the Kerry Mountains with a large gable window behind the Altar and a loft

14 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

conversion for Musicians overlooking the main Gallery.

Now Ranked in the top 10 of 950 hotels in Ireland on TripAdvisor & run by the same family for over 60 years, Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa has perfected weddings delivered with both hands on experience and warmth. In 2020 the arrival of “The Lodge at Ballygarry” will combine their long-standing hospitality experience with a progressive approach for onsite ceremonies to create the perfect Wedding destination venue.

A stylish and relaxing country estate, Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa, is situated within six acres of mature gardens with picturesque mountain views providing the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable destination wedding. Offering the complete package for newlyweds and their guests, visitors are treated to a variety of delectable restaurants, breath-taking strolls through the grounds, and a tranquil experience with the blissful Nadur Spa & Thermal Suite, nestled in amongst the towering trees and water fountains in the gardens of Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa.

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GUEST SPEAKERS ON THE DAY

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The A - Z of Getting Wed Our regular blogger Tanya of Style Spy hit the shops of Kerry once again to check out the wedding scene, here are her thoughts.

A

is for Asking “will you marry me”?

With an exquisite ring, down on one knee. Getting engaged is such a life affirming moment. For years to come people will ask, and you will recount the story of where. when and how it enfolded. Upon first becoming a fiancée/fiancé the ring is the thing!

It is much admired and tried on for luck as people clamor to congratulate you on your happy news.

John Ross Jewelers Tralee has a long standing reputation as Kerry’s Finest Jewelers and with just cause, as quality is always remembered and perfection never forgotten. I met Heather for a viewing of engagement ring trends for 2020 and my eyes were literally out on stalks. From modern 3 stone rings, fancy cut diamonds and stacked bridal sets to halo reimagined ( vintage look) and the fab Moi et Toi rings, my ring finger was in its own Havana.

John Ross jewelers have the perfect mix of enthusiasm and passion that you want to feel when you are choosing one of the most important pieces of jewelry you will ever wear.

Take a look at these gorgeous rings .

B

is for Booking your perfect wedding venue Where your loved ones will share your big day with you You are spoiled for choice when choosing a venue for your special day in Kerry. We are blessed with an abundance of luxury hotels surrounded by breathtaking scenery and exceptional high standards to make your day run as smoothly as possible.

Check out our wedding venue guide for suggestions

C

is for wedding Cake which symbolizes luck and happiness For the newlywed couple and each and every guest O’ Carroll’s Cakes Killarney make THE most amazing cakes. For weddings they provide a variety of mouth watering themesbuttercream, chocolate, non traditional and my personal favorite the semi-naked wedding cake. Another amazing lady who produces mouth watering cakes is Sherly from 'Moms Porter Cakes' she gives us some top tips later in this feature.

D

is for the Dress that makes you cry happy joyful tears The memory of wearing it will never fade throughout the years and the ladies of Finesse Bridalwear Listowel will guide you in the right direction celebrating 20years in the business this year, they know how their stuff for sure.. I gasped in delight when Liz sent me these photos of their BEAUTIFUL new 2020 collection. Just WOW! At times words fail me, so I will simply let the pictures speak for themselves to all you lucky brides to be. But how on earth will you be able to say yes to just the one dress??

E

is for Entertainment, the craic agus ceol With the siege of Ennis and bursts of rock n roll.

As well as a lively wedding band and a rocking DJ, couples are now throwing on a few more forms of entertainment to make their special day more memorable.

From caricature artists sketching your guests to magicians enchanting one and all , the sky is the limit and totally your choice.

F

is for Flowers to make your marriage bloom The brides bouquet and the buttonhole for the groom Flowers

by Jen is fast becoming one of the most highly sought out florists by brides to be.

Past brides heap endless praise on her style- classic mixed with rustic and how they adored their bridal bouquet so much that they didn’t want to toss it.

Check this lady out!!

G

is for the Groom who looks handsome and debonair Wearing his wedding suit with panache and flair With so much focus on the beautiful bride and her gúna we must not forget the grooms wedding attire. For he is truthfully on show ( at the church) for longer than the bride- depending on how long you keep him waiting. With suits like these ones I’d not let him wait more than 5 minutes!!

Jessica from Ryles Menswear Tralee sent me these fabulous pics. Proving today’s groom is fashionably aware and his personality oozes from his choice of suit.

Ryles Menswear is a go to place for the groom who likes to exude a touch of u n i q u e n e s s in his choice.

Christy Dignam is a big fan and wouldn’t it be a Crazy World if every groom looked the same?

H

is for Hairstyles, will you go all sleek and dressy Or is your style more vintage curls or an updo that’s messy A brides wedding day is one of the most special moments in her life and one where it’s Crucial that she has a good hair day. It’s also a day for her guests to be the best dressed on the day. You have so many amazing hair stylists to choose from- and so many featured here with us make sure you check them out.

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wedding day moments...

To book a wedding consultation, contact Madeleine Doyle at 066 7199100 or email mdoyle@therosehotel.com The Rose Hotel, Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co. Kerry. V92 HKA4.

THE LISTOWEL ARMS HOTEL

Bespoke Weddings on the banks of River Feale WWW.LISTOWELARMS.COM |Â TEL. 068 21500 Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 19

I

is for the Irish Mammies not just the mother of the bride Both will look wonderful as they stand at your side.

The Irish mammy will tie herself in knots as she starts looking for something to wear for her daughter or sons special day. Inevitably she will of course look absolutely stunning when the day arrives. Here are a few outfits from Hannons and MacBees that are simply perfection in their quest for their ensemble H a n n o n s of Castleisland has been dressing the ladies of Kerry and beyond since 1938.

They stock sizes 8-26 and carry a huge array of national and international labels to suit all tastes.

MacBees Killarney has been a fashion house since 1984 They stock sizes 8-20 in their beautiful labels. Included in the pictures are styles from Carla Ruiz and Irish designer Caroline Kilkenny.

Pictures include outfits from Hannons and MacBees for both mammies and female guests to choose from.

With these two stalwart boutique having your back you will find your outfit far quicker than you anticipated ladies.

J

is for Jewelry worm by the bride and the groom too It can be a mix of something very old or something brand new. Of course the ring is the thing on this most special of days. But a girl can never have too much jewellerylike EVER. Heather in John Ross Jewelers Tralee showed me some fabulous pieces and I simply fell head over heels for this gorgeous pendant and earrings.

Isn’t it divine?

And the groom deserves a piece of special day jewelry too.

I really love this 9ct gold tag disc. The back can be engraved with initials and the date he married his soulmate.

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K

is for Kerry, it’s people and our ways Both are sure to make it the most memorable of days Kerry is a magical wedding wedding destination for sooo many reasons.

An array of stunning scenic locations for your photos Kerry does hotels and venues to an exceptionally high standard. 4 and 5 star hotels, castles, lodges and country houses abound in Kerry. The many picturesque churches are endless if a church wedding is your choice Things to see and do. There are a myriad of attractions and amenities to keep your guests entertained The people. Hospitality is part of the DNA of Kerry people and a huge Cèad Mìle Fàilte will he offered freely to all.

L

is for Local suppliers, for we have it all Just pick up the phone and give them a call Shop local for your wedding and not only will you be supporting your own community, you will also receive expert advice from local suppliers who have their fingers on the pulse and are best qualified on all things local. You will also discover that by keeping it local you will save a lot of both time and money.

M

is for Makeup for the bride and her female friends To sit back and let the MUAs apply the latest trends Whether you aim to be a blushing bride , smoky eyed or a touch of the femme fatale, every bride needs her chosen make up artist close at hand on the big day.

The salons of Kerry are ready to please you and answer your questions.

N

is for the Next day as the party’s far from over It’s a relaxed affair with the odd rendition of Wild Rover.

These days the day after the wedding is another important event. It’s a great time to relax with guests, have the chats and hear stories from the previous day. The newlyweds love this day as they can kick back and chill out with family and friends and dance the night away. Enjoy your next day guys but please let everyone sleep in before you kick off.

O P

is for Open bar where....... Ah ok this is an Irish wedding so of course I’m Only joking

is for Photos that will sit on your wall Keepsakes forever to be admired by all Your wedding photographer has the important task of capturing all parts of your day. The bit where you get ready full of butterflies to when you come back down the aisle beaming as a newlywed couple.

Your photographer will catch moments you will miss as you are busy greeting guests and you will be ecstatic to see them afterwards.

JOHN WALSH PHOTOGRAPHY comes very highly recommended for his unique style in wedding photography.

Q

is for Questions for so many will enter your head Keep a pen and paper to hand all day and even next to the bedstead

R

is for Reception where your party will really begin This is where you put your own stamp on every single thing , The gap between the ceremony and the meal need not mean everybody props up the bar and is in dire need of soakage the minute the dinner bell rings! There are so many ways to keep your guests entertained.

Photo booths are a fun way of keeping guests amused and laughing at your reception. They bring everyone together in an atmosphere charged with the craic.... silly props and sillier faces are a must. Check out Team BAWE Kerry if it’s a photo booth you desire.

Handlebars.ie is a new Listowel based business that has fun weddings written all over it. I met Eleanor this week and she showed me their fab vintage bicycles that combine catering for special events. *Disclaimer: Do not hop on the bikes after quaffing their bubbly!!

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S

is for Smile bright with sparkle and pizazz You can with teeth whitening packages and all that Jazz Mac Domhnaill Dental will make sure your pearly whites dazzle on the big day. With their much lauded whitening treatments they are definitely one to put on your to do list. MacDomhnaills also do a special New Skin Rejuvenating Therapy..... the Vampire Facial.

T

is for traditions that go back very very far One of such is tying a horseshoe to the wedding car. There are many ancient Irish customs that you can incorporate into your ceremony.

Have a look at these Tie the knot with rope, ribbon or lace Uilleann pipes Carry a lace handkerchief Have a sixpence ( probably 5c nowadays) in your shoe.

be at hand and watched with love by all for years to come.

Check out Kerry b a s e d videographer E L A I N E PRENDIVILLE VIDEOGRAPHER

W

is for Walk In as a newlywed husband and wife And everybody stands and clinks their glass with their knife, It’s a memorable moment when you and your newly acquired spouse walk in to your reception. The cheers when you are introduced as Mr and Mrs are second to none. Pick a song that’s special

U

is for good Underwear as it is a game changer With the best undergarments there won’t be any slip ups or danger No matter what style of dress you choose it is an unspoken law (of gravity) that you must invest in good quality underwear to showcase both the dress and yourself to the max. Pop into the lovely ladies in Shaw’s and they will talk you through the many options available to you . As you bop the night away you will be so glad that you did.

V

is for Videographer for looking back on your special day Seeing every moment, the love and laughter when you press play. Photos catch what your day LOOKED like, whereas the wedding video will capture what your day FELT like. The joy, the tears ( pure happiness) the feel of your day will forever

22 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

life. MWAH!

Y

is for You, take a break, relax and don’t burn out Everything will be perfect , of that I have no doubt.

With all the running around planning your wedding, be sure to take extra care of yourself.

Pop into HORANS HEALTH STORE and stock up on some of their vitalising supplements and tonics to keep yourself physically and mentally fit and ready for the big day.

Z

is for Zilla for a bridezilla you may sometimes appear to be But just relax and take a breath and count from 1 to 33. If you suspect at some point that you may be bridezillaesque , here’s a tip.

Strike a deal with your bestie and allow her to rein you in. If you are in company she may use a code word.... e.g.

Notions!!

But then again It’s your party etc Z is also for zzzzzzzzzz. .... and RELAX

to you both for your walk-in and stroll, hop or jive your way to the top table.

X

is for all the Kisses you will both get for the whole day long Carry a good lip balm and you won’t go wrong As a newlywed you will receive more kisses in one day than in all your previous years. And that’s not including any from your new spouse. So pucker up and enjoy being at the epicentre of one of the happiest days of your

I’ll finish off with this lovely Irish Blessing that is oft used on wedding days.

May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be always at your back May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rain fall soft upon your fields And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Comhghairdeas le lànúin Shona Tonya X

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H ow to select perfect wedding band...

The Christmas season is behind us and for couples who got engaged in 2019, now is the time to select a sparkling set of weddings bands as a symbol of their love for the rest of their lives. The 2020 wedding season is well under way, so what should brides and grooms look out for when selecting their rings? We asked Heather O’Sullivan at John Ross Jewellers, Tralee:

There is a huge array of wedding band styles out there, so your first step should be to visit your local jeweller as a couple for a consultation. Make sure to decide a budget in advance and let the jeweller know. Then they can select the best quality to suit the amount you want to spend.

The jeweller will examine your engagement ring to establish if it is platinum, white gold, yellow gold, etc.

You will have to match the metal. Mixing different metals is not advised.

The groom will also need to try on rings.

He should carefully consider the metal he would like, what kind of design he prefers and the comfort of the ring. Wedding rings are generally made to order, so shop early. If you leave it until the last minute, you may not have sufficient time to get the ring of your

dreams made.

Once you have selected your wedding bands you can add to the symbolism of the rings by personalising them with engraving. Also, for some ceremonies you will need a wedding coin for the Exchange of Gifts. Most jewellers will provide these extras free of charge.

Four Key Wedding Band Trends for 2020 The trends for this year apply equally to wedding bands for women and men.

Artivism Once you know which metal is right for you, the next important decision is the style of ring. Do you want a diamond set wedding band? Or a plain one? Or maybe your engagement ring has an unusual shape and you will need to have a custom-made ring to fit in next to it?

2020 marks the 100th anniversary of Art Deco, one of the most influential style periods in the history of jewellery and certainly the source of some of the most beloved modern-day designs. This celebration is having a huge renewed influence on jewellery styles and wedding bands are no exception. Look out for delicate mill grain edges, fancy cut

diamonds and intricate designs. They look stunning with halo style engagement rings.

Vintage Qualities

You may have already spotted that yellow gold is returning as a major trend again.

The rich beauty of gold embodies the desire connect in a more meaningful way in these digitally dominated times. Think of beautiful engraved icons with glowing gold details. Yellow gold wedding bands for 2020 are either classic plain or twotone intricate designs. Matching wedding bands are making a return.

Nature & Mystery

Floral motifs, spirals, circles, unity and eternity are all themes. These ideas are inspiring wedding band design through hidden diamonds, detailed gallery settings, curved shapes and surface patterns. They translate easily to bridal and bridesmaid jewellery too.

Sustainability

If you want to source your wedding bands in an ethical and sustainable way, then you might like to explore our Fair Trade and Canadian gold options. Why not consider using a wedding band passed down to you by a relative? This option can be so special and meaningful. If this is your preferred choice, we can help you to get your heirloom ring wedding-ready with cleaning, repolishing and engraving. Alternatively, we can assist you in remodelling the heirloom ring into a contemporary design to your own taste.

Ceremony Music

The music at your drinks reception should have something for everyone - regardless of age. This will break the ice and help guests feel relaxed and included. When you arrive, your guests will be mingling, chatting and ready to celebrate your big day. Having the right live music at your drinks reception will set the tone for the rest of your special day and create the right ambience for you and your guests.

John Collins is a saxophonist with a modern rich tone and high quality sound. Tralee born John is an experienced, trained musician. He played in London for wedding receptions, social events and functions for many years. He now plays regularly at venues throughout Kerry and the neighbouring counties.

John has over 1500 tunes to suit all tastes, ranging from contemporary to classic songs. He will create the perfect atmosphere on your wedding day.

John played the final slot at The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival in October 2019 as part of the main lineout in The River Lee Hotel, Cork.

Check out a sample of John’s music on YouTube (john collins sax player kerry), Facebook (john collins sax player tralee), Email (johncollins.saxplayer@gmail.com) or contact John on 086 2282117 24 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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THE ASHE HOTEL Maine St, Tralee, Kerry, V92 W56F Tel 066 7106300 info@theashehotel.ie www.theashehotel.ie C Connect onnect K Kerry erry | | JFuly eb 2019 2020 | 25

WEDDING CAKES •Design of your Cake

Wedding cakes come in all styles, designs shapes and sizes nowadays and there is a much wider choice that when your Aunty Kathleen made you a royal iced 3 tier fruit cake. Couples choose every style from multicoloured towers of buttercream to novelty themed cakes, from vintage style naked cakes to dessert tables and cupcake displays. Choose a style that ties in with your wedding theme or your colour scheme.

•Budget...how much do you want to spend

Have realistic expectations when deciding your cake budget.

Most cake makers will have prices for basic wedding cakes and then prices will vary according to ingredients, Labour, design, consultations and other overheads. The more elaborate your cake design the more expensive it will be. Sometimes less will cost more depending on your design.

only allow products from HSE approved suppliers.

• Cake flavours

Some couples like to choose just one flavour but I always feel you should have a selection. But then I love cake and loving having a choice. There’s a huge variety of flavours available nowadays and almost every drink, sweet and biscuit is available as a cake flavour. Your cake maker will be able to provide you with flavour samples on request

•Cake Decoration

Don’t leaving the booking of your cake until the last minute.

The earlier you book your cake the more choice of cake makers you have. Popular dates fill very quickly so even if your not sure of design, book in your date.

A wedding cake needs to not only taste amazing but look amazing also. You're going to be looking at the photos for a lifetime. There are endless options to styling and decorating your cake. You may have your own definite ideas or Google and Pinterest are great go to sites. Fresh flowers are a very popular choice of deco and your florist will be able to supply flowers to match your colour theme. .

•Who will create our cake

•Delivery and set up

•When do we book our cake

Once you have an idea of your cake and a budget decided, the next step is choosing a cake maker. Word of mouth is always a good judge, plus social media pages and reviews. You’re cake maker is the best person to advise on portion numbers, tier sizes, icings, styles, delivery etc.

Ensure that whoever you choose is a HSE approved business.

Along with the obvious food safety reasons, some venues will

When ordering your cake make sure to make arrangements with your supplier for delivery and set up. It’s always safer to leave this job to the professionals, unless you can 100 percent trust a family member or friend to complete this task.

by Sherly Thornton Moms Porter cake.

Listowel | Tralee North Kerry & beyond Tel: 087 241 9234 www.momsportercake.com

Pearly Whites and Wedding Bells An. Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill Fáilte Romhaibh Isteach.

People always want to look their best on their wedding day. This needs some planning when it comes to teeth. While some people may need scaling (cleaning) of their teeth, other cases are more complicated, especially if they do not attend a dentist on a regular basis.

Initially, a treatment plan will be made for them. Fillings or extractions may be needed, or even root fillings. These may need time to settle down afterwards. Crowns (porcelain or metal covers for teeth) are sometimes necessary to protect teeth. They are also used on occasions to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth.

Orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth can be spread over a period of months or sometimes years. Therefore, long term planning is essential so that you can get the best result before your wedding day. Otherwise, some of the treatment should be postponed until after your big day. Remember to enjoy you big day.

So smile on!

49 Upper Rock St, Gallowsfields, Tralee, Co. Kerry 26 |C Connect Kerry |Feb 2020 26 | onnect Kerry | July 2019

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Your Dream H oneymoon

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So, you thought choosing the wedding attire was difficult, or deciding which cousins should receive an afters invitation… wait until you sit down to plan your dream honeymoon!!!!

We know how busy couples are in the run up to the wedding so our job is to take the stress and time out of organising your special trip.

Our team have travelled all over the world and have first-hand experience of the top destinations and hotels from South Africa to California and everywhere in between.

There are a couple of questions that you will need to answer in order to find the perfect destination for you to enjoy after your wedding.

How long can you spend abroad?

What is your budget?

What time of the year are you hoping to travel? Some couples prefer to take off straight after their wedding, others will wait until the rainy season in Thailand has passed!!

A few handy tips :

on consequences at worst.

If you are booking travel in advance, do it under your maiden name and wait until after your honeymoon to change your passport. You should also check that both passports are in date for your trip - bearing in mind that some destinations, like Dubai, Cuba, Turkey and Thailand, require six months validity.

Here at KC Travel we specialise in tailor making Honeymoons to suit your requirements whether it is a Road trip or a City Break, a Cruise or a Safari, the Caribbean or the Canary Islands.

All of our itineraries are fully flexible in terms of content, route and duration.

Leave it to the experts at KC Travel Tralee and we can arrange every aspect of your trip.

We thrive on organising a honeymoon that is bespoke, unique and personalised just for you and your partner.

Contact Caroline and Tracy on 066 7124934 or email us on kctraveltralee@gmail.com Or pop into us – Unit 9, Tralee Shopping Centre, Tralee.

Plan and book your honeymoon as far ahead as possible. Late bookings will make you worry, and any savings will be tempered by limited choice of rooms, next-best resorts or really long layovers. That goes double for peak travel periods like July, August and Christmas.

It sounds obvious, but the name on your passport must match the name on your travel documents. If it doesn't, you can expect name change charges at best, and delays that have nasty knock-

Pre-Wedding Parties.

The all-important hen/ stag party!!!!

It’s a time long tradition that the bridal party will arrange a little final farewell for the one who is taking the plunge and saying ‘ I DO’ . In recent years it has become customary for this to be a short break away the sun or a city break. This can take time and planning and organising buses to get you to your flight but with the new route just announced from Kerry Airport it is going to make things much easier. Kerry Airport Ireland have confirmed a new route to Manchester which will commence in late March heralding a great start to 2020 for passengers.

Operating twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays from the 29th of March 2020, Kerry to Manchester will suit passengers travelling for business or pleasure for weekends and midweek breaks.

The news of the new route came less than 24 hours after Kerry Airport announced an increase of 1.2% in passenger numbers in 2019, despite some challenging conditions, compared to 2018 whilst Ryanair is increasing the frequency of its Kerry-Alicante route this summer.

If you are planning a trip to Spain’s sunny Costa Blanca you will have three flights to choose from in June, July and August – a 50% increase on 2019 – in addition to the scheduled flights during April, May, September and October, so all these flights make it far more convenient to plan that last bash.

For more information on flights check out www. KerryAirport.ie 28 | |C Connect onnect Kerry |Feb 2020 28 Kerry | July 2019

Connect | Women in Business AWARDS|C SPECIAL Advertising onnect

Connect onnect K Kerry erry | | JFuly eb 2020 C 2019 | | 29 29

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Romy Birdthistle, makeup hoarder, beauty enthusiast and owner of New Salon Paradise Beauty Tralee. With over 12 years in the beauty industry. I'm here to share my best tips and tricks when it comes to beauty makeup and skincare. For any questions, information or news on my fun makeup classes just email me makeupbyromyb@gmail.com

Wonderful Wedding Products

My Facebook news feed was full of newly engaged people this Christmas and new year season so I was inspired to make a list of my must have wedding makeup products. There are some fabulous wedding trends coming for 2020, from fluffy brows to glowing skin and understated eye makeup.

bPerfect X Makeup by Jah Clientelle Palette

I tried to talk myself out of buying this palette as I have so many already and I just thought I wouldn't get use out of it and boy was I wrong! This is a palette that should be in everyone’s collection. For bridal looks there are both warm and cool tones and the pinks are perfect for anyone wanting to add a splash of colour to the lid which will be huge for brides this year. This Palette is good value too at €39.95, you would definitely be reaching for it every time you do your makeup! Available in CH Chemist, Sam McCauley’s and other bPerfect Stockists.

IT Cosmetics CC Cream

This CC Cream acts as a medium coverage foundation and it is without a doubt one of my favourite products. It leaves skin looking so healthy and radiant, it really can't be beaten. A little goes a long way and it's sure to stay in place if you choose this as your foundation for your wedding day. It also comes in 3 consistencies, there's one with a radiant finish, a mattifying and a standard one for normal skin types. Available now in CH Chemist.

Luna by Lisa Lip Products

I have mentioned these products a million times before but I really can't help it. My current favourite combo is the honeymoon lip liner and the precious Topaz Lip-gloss from the lip vault, I adore it and have chosen it for my own wedding later this year. I find all of her lip products really moisturising and long lasting so they're perfect for your wedding day. They are available in loads of good Pharmacies and online. With the lip pencils starting at €8.

L'Oréal Paris False Lash X Fiber Xtreme Resist Waterproof

You will have to decide whether or not you are going to wear false lashes on your wedding day, if you haven't worn them before then definitely as for them during you make trial to make sure you feel comfortable with them on, you could also go down the lash extensions route and these can be a great option too as they will still be in place for your honeymoon. If neither of these appeals then a great Mascara will be your best friend. Love this fibre one from Loreal as it adds great length to the lashes too. Available in Pharmacies and usually as part of a 3 for 2 in boots.

30 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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BON JOVI TRIBUTE BAND

Live at SAT 15TH FEBRUARY 2020 IN AID OF

Action for Amber

The line up: 9.30pm

Kingdom Dancers Open the night

10.00pm

Seamus Harty

10.30pm

80S Disco With Dj Botty

11.00pm

Bon Jovi Tribute Show

Followed afterwards until late 80s disco with dj Botty Fantastic prizes to be won on the night Tickets available in Paco Tralee, & all Horans Health Stores Tralee

Tickets

SPONSORED BY THE BRANDON HOTEL

Mc on the night the great

ELAINE KINSELLA Radio Kerry

€20 Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 31

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32 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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ORAL HEALTH... NATURALLY! HORANS Healthstores

100% Irish Owned

Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is a vital step towards good overall health. Good oral hygiene includes visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and the hygienist every 6 months for cleaning.

Ensure you are taking the time to brush and floss properly. There are also some other steps which you need to consider to maintain good oral health such as looking at your dietary habits. Replace sugar with a natural alternative such as XYLITOL. This is a natural sweetener extracted from the bark of birch trees and it may help reduce the ability of bacteria to multiply in the mouth and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Chewing helps to stimulate saliva build-up which also helps to fight tooth damage. Go for whole fruit rather than juice and chew on crunchy vegetables.

Stress can of course have a negative effect on your immune system and as a result may, in some people, cause a breakout of mouth ulcers. Burning the candle at both ends may also affect your gums and oral health.

If you experience reoccurring mouth ulcers,

bad breath, sore gums or oral thrush it may be a sign that you are run down or simply not absorbing enough of the vital nutrients needed for good overall health. As well as maintaining good oral hygiene practices there are also some natural products and essential nutrients available in store, some of which include: B-VITAMINS: If stress is a factor, these will help support the central nervous system.

VITAMIN C: may help to kill of bad bacteria in the mouth.

effect on each other so it is important to keep your immune system strong and stress levels under control. If you need help and support with this some products which may help include: GARLIC CAPSULES, BLACK ELDERBERY, DR WOLZ IMMUNEKOMPLEX AND ECHINACEA. Don’t forget to top up your gut bacteria regularly with a good quality probiotic.

Some probiotics contain different strains of bacteria so always ask us in-store and we will ensure you are getting the most effective one for your needs.

You will also find a large selection of natural, paraben free toothpastes in store.

With or without fluoride, sensitive or whitening, so check these out also.

VITAMIN D: helps you to absorb vitamin C and keep teeth strong.

CALCIUM: essential mineral to help keep teeth strong and healthy.

PROBIOTICS: UDO’S super 5 is a lozenge probiotic which will help build the good bacteria needed for a healthy mouth.

CO Q 10: research has shown it may help with bleeding and inflamed gums (always discuss these symptoms with your dentist)..

Until next time, Stay healthy and keep smiling!!!

Deirdre Email: horansmanor@gmail.com Tel: (066) 718 0690 Manor West Retail, Tralee , Kerry

Remember your oral health and your general health and wellbeing have an

Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 33

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34 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

Suggested Valentine Treats

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Its February, it’s the month of love, Christmas is over Easter is not yet here, but it would be nice to get a little break away for valentines with a loved one wouldn’t it? it’s a Friday so why not. we had a look to see what was available around the county.

The Moorings Portmagee, the ideal break away in one of the loveliest villages in Ireland, great fun, cosy atmosphere, delicious food and lively entertainment it’s the ideal break for you and yours to recharge this valentine.

Dingle Skellig Hotel- with its newly refurbished rooms now is the time to show your loved one how much they mean to you with a mini overnight with dinner and a late check out is just what you need,

The Brehon Hotel are doing a fantastic valentine offer of overnight dinner b+b for just 189 per night, and you can avail of the fabulous facilities of the Angsana spa.

Dining out is always a treat so why not check out the great valentine menus available in the various eateries around the county If all that fails there is always the local shop with a vast array of chocolates, scratch cards and if you’re lucky the odd last-minute bunch of flowers. Remember its not about the biggest gift or the most expensive restaurant, it’s the little things your loved one can do for you daily means a lot more.

Enjoy the day no matter what you do xxxx Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 35

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What a great day was had recently at the annual Ladies Lunch, Fashion, Health and Beauty Afternoon. Ladies were treated to a welcome Gin on arrival courtesy of Skellig Six 18 Distillery, Kerry’s newest distillery, where they enjoyed a mini shopping village with everything from jewellery to hand made soaps and oils to tempting food treats.

This was followed by a delicious 5 course lunch with fine wines, ladies got to see a sneak of what’s arriving for the spring from our mini fashion show and this was followed by a host of experts giving advice and tips on health wellness and getting fit and healthy for 2020.

The afternoon was ably hosted

by Dr Mary McCaffrey and ladies retired to the old market bar at the hotel for more gin and the infamous afterparty where the guests danced t he evening away to Sean Crowley with the final few festive tunes. All in all, it was a fantastic day out and we look forward to seeing everyone again very soon.

The raffle was supporting our Charity partner for the year Tralee CBS Primary School and would like to thank the businesses who supported us with amazing prizes.

we

Thanks To Our Sponsors On The Day For The Raffle Prizes

TWITTER: lizzieraisin

36 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

FACEBOOK: Tralee Music Services

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Nora's Kitchen Recipes

A few quick and handy recipes this month to keep you on track for 2020 Chicken Chasseur Serves 4 Ready in 30

1

Place a frying pan sprayed with Fry Light over a medium heat.

Add the chicken & onion & stir-fry for 5 minutes until the chicken is browned.

Ingredients: - Low Calorie Spray - 6 boneless chicken thighs , skinned & halved Add the garlic, stock, tomato - 1 onion, roughly chopped puree & tarragon, then season.

- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped Bring to the boil, cover & simmer - 9fl oz/255ml chicken stock (I use chicken bovril) for 20 minutes or until the chicken - 1 level tbsp tomato puree is cooked through.

- 3 sprigs of fresh tarragon, plus an extra sprig to garnish Discard the sprigs of tarragon - Salt & Pepper & stir in the mushrooms & - 2 tomatoes, deseeded & roughly chopped tomatoes.

Simmer for 10 minutes.

- 4oz/ 113g button mushrooms Cook the rice according to the - 10oz/ 283g dried long grain rice, to serve packet instructions & drain well.

Meanwhile, finely chop half the extra tarragon & serve.

2

3

Cooking TIP: Cook on a really low heat to prevent the sauce from being boiled away before the chicken is cooked. If this does happen just add another 125mls of chicken stock. I would personally serve this with a huge pile of green beans to optimise the dish!

The Chasseur can be frozen

Marghita Melt

Greek Omelette

Serves 1 Ready in 10

Serves 1 Ready in 10

1.Split and toast a 60g wholemeal roll 2. Then top each half with tomato puree and sliced red onion, Divide 40g of grated reduced fat cheddar cheese and grill until melted.

3. Feel free to add additional toppings to this to make it more substantial or flavourful.

Serve with a side salad.

1. Beat a few eggs with a pinch of dried oregano and fry in low calorie cooking spray.

2. Top half of the omelette with baby spinach leaves and 65g of reduced feta cheese 3. Then fold over the other half to cover serve with halved cherry tomatoes.

Prawn Tabbouleh Serves 4 Ready in 15 minutes

1. Put 250g of dried bulgar wheat in a large heatproof bowl and pour in 400ml of boiling water.

2. Cover it and set aside for 10-12 mins. Fluff up the grains, season to taste, add in prawns and vegtables. Serve cold or at room temp.

NORAS'S SLIMMING WORLD Takes place every Wednesday at Austin Stacks Club house Connolly Park Tralee.

9:30am, 11:30am, 3:30pm, 5:30 pm & 7:30 pm.

Search: Noras Slimming World Tralee on facebook or @NoraButlerSW on instagram. Contact Nora: 0872489838

Connect Kerry | July 2019 | 39 Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 37

Connect | Lifestyle

Benign Prostate Bother Explained By the age of 65 years, 50% of men will experience benign enlargement of the prostate. At the age of 90, 90% of men have prostatic enlargement. As such enlargement of the prostate is a natural part of growing older for men. An enlarged prostate alone does not always cause symptoms. It is important to note also that an enlarged prostate gland does not mean that a man has prostate cancer or indeed mean that they have to a higher risk of prostate cancer.

The prostate gland lies just beneath the bladder and is normally about the size of a walnut. The urethra, which is the drainage tube of the bladder, runs through the middle of the prostate. The main function of the prostate is during your reproductive life. It produces fluid containing chemicals which nourish sperms to help with fertilisation.

Dr. Deirdre Fanning, MD, FRCS (Urology) Consultant Urologist Bon Secours Hospital Tralee & Limerick Secretary: Sandra 066-7164532 Appointments available via GP referral. tube of the bladder as it runs through the prostate. These medications act quickly, so within a short number of days a man should see an improvement in the speed and strength of urination, a reduction in dribble at the end of urination and hopefully reduction in urinary frequency. They may cause low blood pressure, a stuffy nose, skin rashes and impaired ejaculation.

The second group of medicines are called 5 Alpha Reductase Inhibitors. These medications act slowly to shrink the prostate gland and are used men where the prostate gland exceeds 40 grams. The effect of these medications will not be quickly apparent to patients. This group of medications can also cause ejaculatory problems and also reduce your PSA level by up to 50%.

The two types of medicine can be taken together in a combined form in men with larger prostates.

If symptoms are severe, if there is no response to medical treatment or if there are complications of prostatic enlargement, referral to a urologist is recommended as surgery may be needed.

There are a range of symptoms which are attributable to the prostate. A man may have difficulty starting or stopping their urine flow, a weak urinary stream or a feeling that they do not empty their bladder completely.

The severity of the symptoms is not related to the size of the prostate. 1 in 3 men will suffer prostatic symptoms during their life. 1 in 10 men will require surgical treatment for their symptoms.

The risk of suddenly being unable to pass urine with assocaited pain in the region of the bladder is small (approximately 1%). This situation called acute urinary retention is not always preceded by prostatic symptoms. Acute retention usually requires surgery.

Generally minimally invasive surgery is performed by passing a camera down through the penis, to core away the central aspect of the prostate, which tends to be the part that causes a blockage to the flow of urine and the above mentioned bothersome symptoms. This form of surgery is called a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Not all urinary symptoms in men are due to an enlarged prostate - incontinence, pain or blood in the urine may be due to other conditions. The risk of prostate cancer is not increased by having benign enlargement of the prostate. 30-40% of men with prostatic symptoms do not experience worsening of their condition with time and may require no treatment whatsoever.

T r e a t m e n t Measures

In cases where treatment is needed, it is generally in the form of a medicine to start with. There are two types of medicine that are used. The first group of medicines are called Alpha Blockers.

Alpha blockers relax the muscle in and around the drainage 36 | |C Connect onnect Kerry | July 2019 38 Kerry |Feb 2020

It is the most commonly performed operation to improve urine flow and most men get good relief of their symptoms.

The take home message from this brief summary should be that the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland can have a significant adverse effect on a man’s quality of life but that they can generally be effectively treated with appropriate medical or surgical treatment.

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e s i c r e x E s s e n l l & We

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there is so much free information at your fingertips, shopping lists, recipes, allergen advice, I would advise everyone to use this as much as possible to make the small changes they need to help achieve long term goals.

And at the end of the day in 2025 we won’t remember the extra 4 lbs we had after Christmas in January 2020, we will remember the fun with family & friends, the new restaurant we tried

Hi all Áine of AfitBody Gym here again to tackle all your questions in regards to exercise and wellness.

etc. So if you do feel you overdid it, and do feel you have stepped deeper into the weight pit, Just breathe, brush it off and make your choice today to make changes going forward.

What’s the Definition of Insanity ….

Doing the same thing over and over and expecting to see a different result….

Everyday is a new opportunity to take the path we desire

Another January down another start to a new year, No doubt here we all are again grabbing at the latest fast track weight Loss idea. Starting crash diets, making ourselves miserable with restrictive unstainable diet plans… all sound familiar?

If you have any food or exercise questions please feel free to drop me an email and I will respond.

We don’t diet & exercise, we train & fuel A healthy & happy body starts with the choices you make each and every day Happy Training.. and Fueling

Let’s just STOP, take a breath and take the time to sit down and work out something that will actually work for us, picking a few things in out diet we can change immediately:

Áine x

· Having a good breakfast with proteins, carbs & good fats · Reducing sugar & saturated Fats · Eat a variety of Foods · Cutting down on soft drinks · Drinking more water · The list goes on

- 15 Minute HIIT - 30 Secs Plank Jacks - 1. A. KB Swings B. Squats

The main message in is as follows Calories in V’s Calories out = Weight Loss/ Gain I feel like a broken record, but regardless of the diet we pick it all boils down to the above to lose weight you simply need to eat less than you burn, and to have a sustainable diet and to maintain heathy eating long term we need to find a food plan that we enjoy and that is not a chore and simply fits with our Lifestyle. Start today by looking at where you diet is now and pick two things each week you know you can correct and keep that way.

If you really struggle with portions and calculating the calories in foods, download a free Food tracker and use it for a few weeks to teach yourself how to manage your food portions as well as your overall calorie intake.

Food is there to be enjoyed, nothing you love should be on the banned never eat list, but we have to accept that certain foods need to be on every now and again list and not the every day list. So for example if a croissant is your go to breakfast.. this needs to become your weekend treat breakfast and eventually the maybe once or twice a month breakfast As with everything the key to success is PREP, you need to take time out to look at your overall week, to plan and prep your meals and food choices, with the likes of Operation Transformation etc 40 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

This Month’s workout

- (In a Full Tabata round you will get 4 sets of Burpees and 4 sets of Plank completed) - 2. A. Push Ups B. Burpees - 3 A. Lunges B. Knee to Elbow - 4 A. Mountain Climbers B. Russian Twists - 30 Secs Plank Jacks Beginner - 1 Sets of Tabata – 1 Set of Each of the Exercises listed above – 4 minute workout Intermediate 2-3 Sets Pick 2 or 3 of the rounds listed above do 1 round of each Advanced – 1 round of each of the above Tabata rounds – 15 Minutes – Repeat if you dare!

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Connect Kerry | July 2019 | 35 Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 41

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Starting Your Fitness Journey

It’s the new year and we all think about getting a little healthier, so we are delighted to introduce Shane Guthrie to you all Shane is a Personal Trainer and Strength and Conditioning coach.

Shane will be our resident advice coach in Connect Business for 2020 so we wanted start by introducing him to you here in Connect, if you have any questions please email us on info@connectpublications.ie or if you wish to book a session contact Shane direct and he will be happy to put a program together for you.

Conditioning, to aerobics. Most classes also have different levels to suit the level you are at i.e.beginner,intermediate, advanced.

Classes are usually nota that expensive and range from €5 to €15. Another benefit of classes is the social aspect as you get to know new people very quickly.

Shane Guthrie Personal Trainer Strength and Conditioning Coach Email: shaneguthriefitness@gmail.com Instagram: shane_g_fitness Have you decided to start your fitness journey and don’t exactly know where to start?

You might be asking yourself “Do I go to the gym? What gym will i go to? Will i like it?

How will I know what to do when I get there?

There are many questions that fitness newbies ask themselves before starting and this can delay when they start or can lead to some not even starting at all! If you've never been to the gym before it may be a bit overwhelming at the beginning, especially if you start in January during the New Years resolution rush. Here I have put together some options for people who want to start:

Go with a friend:

Gyms can be very daunting places. During January the majority of gyms are very busy. For someone that has never stepped foot inside a gym, this can be ner ve -racking.

Something that might make the transition easier is going with a friend. Going with someone you know will result in you being less nervous as you can share the experience together.

But, If you can find someone you know that's an experienced gym goer,then that's an extra bonus!

Try an exercise class:

Classes are a great way to start your fitness journey. There is such a wide variety of classes to choose from to suit everyone's needs or preference. Classes range from yoga, to Strength and

42 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

Ask for assistance:

If it's your first time in a gym setting don't be afraid to ask for help. I see this plenty of times where a new person in the gym will walk around the gym, not know how to use anything and end up on the treadmill or bike for 5/10 mins and then go home.

The gym instructors are more than happy to show you around the gym and how to use the equipment. At the end of the day it's their job! So don't be too shy to ask.

Invest in a PT:

Investing in a Personal Trainer might be the best way if you are just starting your fitness journey. They can provide you with structure to your workouts while also helping you to set personal goals. Having a PT is also great for accountability. Being accountable to someone increases the chances of sustaining your fitness journey and not quitting come February or March, or EVER. A PT will give you extra motivation to push yourself even when you feel like you can't. Some might think a Personal Trainer is too expensive, but, would you rather join a gym for 6 months, use it 4 times and quit or invest in a Personal Trainer to give you the structure, knowledge and accountability to eventually be able to do it on your own for the rest of your life? I know which one makes more sense!

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A Qi~Light~Full Qigong Retreat with

In the Alpujarras at Las Chemineas, Mairena, Southern Spain 12th - 19th SEPTEMBER 2020 Contact: Pauline Russell T: 00 353 87 947 9461

E: paulinefrussell@gmail.com / info@laschimeneas.com

Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 43

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GETTING BACK TO FITNESS Benefits of Acupuncture in Sport We chat to Eithne Griffin of Red Lotus Clinic on the benefits of acupuncture What causes injury and recurring injury?

Yes we may hurt ourselves, have a fall or suffer a heavy tackle on the sports field but why are some people more prone to injury than others? The answer is the energy.

In treating injury using the Chinese Model one can also treat any underlying imbalance in energy that may make one more susceptible to injury in the first place and to recurring injuries.

Acupuncture treatment is very effective and safe for sport injury and all other injuries, repetitive strain and overwork.

In treating a footballer that came to me recently complaining of recurring quad injury it was very interesting to note that all his discomfort and tender points were along the stomach meridian (or path of energy) which travels along the front of the thigh. On further enquiry I found he also had stomach problems and was always very anxious before a game and could not eat for hours beforehand, he also had a knot in his stomach for the whole game. He was very surprised to hear of the connection between them. So the procedure for treatment was to work on not only the quad injury but also the stomach energy that supplied the energy to the meridian on the quad area. As well as that also treating the underlying anxiety therefore by getting to the root of the problem we treated the symptom while at the same time addressing the cause which brought about relief to the symptoms and longer lasting healing.

At my Red Lotus Clinic I use a combination of acupuncture, deep tissue massage, tens machine, electromagnet heat and cupping to treat injuries to great effect along with Cranio-Sacral therapy and homeopathy medicine.

And now the football season is also kicking off and overtraining is becoming a major health issue. You wouldn't run a racehorse more than

44 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

once a week yet we think this poor auld body of ours can endure anything and go on forever. It seems that "to win at all costs" is what it’s all about regardless of the side effects and the long lasting damage on the physical body.

I can also advise you on good nutrition and probiotic as the flu is rampant at the moment it is important to take your immune system into account.

Adequate fluid intake is also essential as 80% of muscle is made up of fluid and it is also very important to replace the fluids lost through perspiration.

Eithne says that: "having a few "top up" acupuncture treatments with the change of the seasons is of tremendous benefit not only for to sport performance, for accident or surgery recovery but also for our general health�.

It helps maintain balance of energy and prevent tiredness and fatigue which can make you more susceptible to injury because if you feel tired and lacking energy then your organs and digestion will be sluggish, your joints will lack energy supply and your muscles will lack nourishment.

I have noticed that in the case of hip pain and sciatica there is a deficiency along the centre in the core area and an imbalance between the inside and the outside of the leg, the spleen and gallbladder meridians. Energy is like an elastic band that travels along the body so if the elastic band has shortened along the medial side of the leg thus putting greater strain on the energy running down along the lateral side can create a drag or a pull on the hip area which is the gateway for the energy supply to the leg. This in turn can pull the knee inwards to the medial side and cause knee pain, then down the road there may be problems with the ankle and toes and so on it goes. By addressing the blockage and deficiency of energy in the hip area in the first place may not only heal the sciatica but prevent the knock-on effects later.

It is not always through sport or a fall that one can suffer injury, for instance women who have had hysterectomy often suffer neck and upper back problems and are very vulnerable to whiplash injury. This often happens as the core muscles in the abdomen have been damaged and weakened and too tender to use after surgery so that the woman diverts her attention and uses the shoulders and neck to hold her up.

The lack of oestrogen also has an affect on calcium distribution to the joints.

Eithne also advises having a daily balance between work, rest and play. Nowadays it is a fashion to be extremely busy and stressed out with little or no regard for physical and emotional rest. It is not just about getting adequate sleep but also to consciously sit and relax and meditate for some few minutes every day. Taking 5 minutes for meditation is equivalent to one hours sleep.

As I suffered many injuries and health issues myself which forced me to give up my cushy office job I personally know that the journey back to health can be a very scary time. For me it was also very healing and lead me down a different path to training in acupuncture and other powerful therapies. I learned the hard way and appreciate the benefits of slowing down and taking time out to look after number one.

So for January 2020 make it a time to not just get fit but also get healthy then give me a call. Red Lotus Clinic is available on a weekly basis in Scotia Health Clinic, Tralee and in Castlegregory and on a monthly basis in Dingle and Cork City.

Contact Eithne 086 6066865, eithnegriffin@gmail.com www. redlotusclinic.com for appointment.

Shoe Trends for Spring 2020 Hello, lovely readers,

John Dowlings

Having had a look around the shops at the minute one thing is clear, For Spring the theme for casual is very strong and we are delighted to tell you that a stylish runner style look is the order of the day for all looks in everyday wear.

We are delighted here in HQ, not being a fan of the 6 inch heel, its refreshing to see the amazing collection available, with the focus on getting fit and healthy for this issue we thought it would be nice to see Walsh Brothers the alternatives to your typical trainer. If you love going for your morning walk but you need to meet someone for a coffee, or you need to pop to the shops these beauties will get you on your way for the day. Comfy to do your 3k in the morning and stylish enough to get you through your shopping and your coffee catch up with the girls and still good to do the school run on the way home.

Minx Wild Pair

You are spoilt for choice with colour styles and sizes so if check out your local stores today for the collection available.

Let me start by wishing you all a Happy New Year, yes I know its February but it is the first month Connect has issue going to print. Another year to look forward to and to make all our dreams and wishes come true …. The year in Fashion Accessories is broken up in to events within seasons . In February the Confirmations start, they continue into late March, we then have Easter and which is closely followed by Communion season and Races and weddings and then it’s the Rose of Tralee, Halloween and Christmas , wow 2020 doesn’t seem that long now.

Confirmations aren’t really an occasion to go overboard with dressing up, if you have a Trouser suit, a smart casual dress, or a jumpsuit that you have worn before but felt and looked well in it, change it up a bit by putting a different belt, scarf or item of jewellery with it, my motto for 2020 is feel good in what you are wearing do not dress to impress other people and most people know This is just a few that what suits them and if you are unsure about deciding what caught our eye on our trip to wear for an occasion please round town… don’t hesitate to bring in your outfit and we will give you our very honest opinion on what you could do with it to make it look different This time of the year is always exciting for our business because the shop gets

Minx Wild Pair

transformed from the Autumn / Winter colours and stock to the Spring/Summer stock and it literally is like working in a different shop.

John Dowlings

Finally I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the very generous people who have donated to The Action Lesotho Charity Bric A Brac shop recently opened in Tralee Shopping Centre and if you want to know more about our charity click on www. actionlesotho.ie Until next month Keep smiling and be kind to each other, CARMEL XX Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 45

Connect | Lifestyle Election Fever is crossing the country and some of the politicians going forward for election wanted to bring your their vision on what they feel is important in our country. Feb 8th you will have your say but in the meantime here is what they have to say.

Mike Kennelly

My name is Mike Kennelly and I am a proud North Kerry man, I am married to Colette with three children. I am a volunteer and active member of the GAA, my family has a long tradition of involvement in the Kerry GAA, through my late brother Timmy.

I am running in this election because I believe I can be a strong and vibrant candidate for you and our county.

Kerry needs a fresh start and I am asking you for your number one vote, in order to help achieve that new start for our county. Moreover, we need a new approach to deal with the day-to-day problems facing our county, issues of rural isolation not only in the terms of physical location and where we live but in terms of service delivery.

I have the experience required to serve the people of Kerry, with ten years working solely as a public representative first on Listowel Town Council and now on Kerry County Council, I have worked tirelessly to deliver for North Kerry in relation to: - Infrastructural projects including roads and rural broadband.

- Healthcare including provision of primary care centres.

- Housing for all - Farming and agricultural issues.

- Local policing and issues of anti-social behaviour - Planning including provision of facilities for future industrial development.

- Improvements in recreation and sporting facilities for all town and villages.

I want to continue that work and build on it at National Level.

My focus remains on building and delivering top quality services for hard working tax payers and the most vulnerable people in our society. I look forward to meeting with you over the next number of weeks, having the opportunity to listen to your concerns and also outline further my views on effective representation.

We deserve nothing less in the Kingdom of Kerry. Put your trust in me and I will deliver.

Michael Healy-Rae Health

Our health service at present is falling far short of what people deserve and need if they or their family members suffer from illness, accidents or in need of medical treatment. Our hospital staff, our local GP’S, our nurses all do their level best to help people in their time of need. As I have stated in the past a root and branch approach needs to be taken when dealing with the health crisis. The whole admissions policy in hospitals in kerry and beyond needs to be changed.

In other words there are other ways of addressing the delays when it comes to people waiting on trolleys and having to wait for a long time before been admitted to actual wards. The system that is there at present was not there in the past and I believe the older systems were better than what is there now. I have spoken extensively to people working in our hospital service and they really believe that management and administration do not have a clue when it comes to running a proper heath service and that is why they should be listened to.

Housing

It makes so sense to me that when a local authority house becomes available that there seems to be extraordinary delays in turning those houses around and getting them ready for use again. I believe there are actually 100’s of houses which is an awful shame and an awful waste lying idle today that could be occupied with individuals and young families. I have also proposed to Government but they simply will not listen that there is an awful lot of idle properties that are privately owned and if incentives were put in place could be renovated and made suitable for people to live in. This would also strengthen our communities, villages and help our local businesses by having people living in those centres. The present Minister for Housing in my honest opinion has failed us miserably, there seems to be no work ethic whatsoever. We need a Minister for housing that will listen and that will work more closely with our local authorities.

Family Farm Income

Our beef sector is in crisis and has been now for a long time in that it is quiet simply not possible at present for Farmer’s to make a fair income from producing beef. This has led to many protests on this issue and what I have always said is that the farmer’s that are protesting would far more like to continue with their work but they have to voice their concerns to Government and there is definitely a monopoly which is very unfair in our beef sector in that prices are totally unfair and farmer’s are not been paid properly for producing beef. Young Farmer’s are getting no encouragement whatsoever in getting into farming and it is of paramount importance that the tradition of passing on family farms from one generation to the other is continued. Monopoly’s will have to be broken up and incomes will have to be protected and it is frightening to think that farmer’s tell me now and I know it myself that 30 years ago they were getting paid a fairer price than they are today.

46 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

VOTE HEALY-RAE TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE A FULL AND COMPLETE POLITICAL SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF KERRY

MICHAEL HEALY-RAE and DANNY HEALY-RAE REQUEST YOUR VOTE If you support us please cast your vote in accordance with your location as shown on this map.

It is only with your support that we can get elected.

Vote No 1

MICHAEL

BALLYBUNION

Vote Vote No No 22 DANNY DANNY Healy-Rae Healy-Rae

CAUSEWAY BALLYHEIG E R551

R553

Brand n Point CASTLEGREGORY

DUAGH

R556

ABBEYDORNEY

N21

KNOCKNAGOSHEL

ANNASCAUL

DINGLE

BROSNA

TRALEE N21

CAMP

BALLYFERRITER

N70

Cordal

MILLTOWN

Laharn FIRIES FIRIES Lissavane West N22 R563 Kilcummin Listry FAHA

N70

VALENTIA IS.

SNEEM

N70 Kenmare River

Barradubh

Muckross

Shrone

N22

N71

Rossacroo

Clonkeen

MOLLS GAP

R569

R568

KILGARVAN

N70

PORTMAGEE

CAHERDANIEL

RATHMORE

GLENFLESK

GLENCAR CAHERSIVEEN

Gneeveguilla

KILLARNEY N72

BEAUFORT CARAGH LAKE

GLENBEIGH

R557

FARRANFORE

KILLORGLIN N72Ballymalis

WATERVILLE

SCARTAGLIN Currow

CASTLEMAINE R561

DUNQUIN

Dingle Bay

CASTLEISLAND

N22 Currans

INCH

R555

N69

BARROW G.C. SPA R558 FENIT

N86

Vote Vote No No 22 MICHAEL MICHAEL Healy-Rae Healy-Rae

LISTOWEL

LIXNAW

R551

ARDFERT Tralee Bay

HEALY-RAE

N69

R552

BALLYDUFF

BALLINSKELLIGS

DANNY

ASDEE R551

HEALY-RAE

IGHTS TOWN

Vote No 1

TARBERT

R571

TUOSIST

KENMARE N71

Vote No. 1 & No. 2

HEALY-RAE in order of your choice

Connect | Lifestyle

John Brassil Healthcare

Problem - Lengthy wait times for appointments and procedures and overcrowding.

Solution - Increase number of consultants and increase funding for the National Treatment Purchase Fund to get those on wait lists longest seen to asap. Increase bed capacity and increase budget to employ more nurses.

Problem - Not taking care of our most vulnerable.

Solution - Develop a statutory home care scheme for older people, tackling long delays in accessing disability services especially for children.

Key point of concern for John is in ensuring that UHK maintains its status as a Category 3 hospital this requires proper staffing and making sure Consultant posts are filled.

Rural Ireland

Problem - Two tier recovery, rural Ireland and Kerry is not seeing the same benefits as the East of the Country Solution - John lobbying IDA CEO to appoint a Senior Executive with special responsibility for Kerry, this would help to attract business and enterprise to the county.

Solution - Increased service provision – make Kerry an attractive place to do business and want to work by ensuring schools are properly funded, Garda stations are reopened and resourced and implement the NBP as digital connectivity is essential.

Solution - Support small businesses and start-up companies – Reduce rate bands and tackle the cost of business insurance.

Solution – Better supports for our tourism and agriculture sectors, the biggest employers in the County.

Cost of living

Problem - Working families are finding it harder to meet costs of daily living.

Solution - Reduce the USC rates Solution- Increase entry point to the 40% income tax rate.

Solution - Reform childcare system which currently ignores middle income families.

Solution - Tackle insurance costs on motor and business insurance.

Solution - New direct build affordable housing scheme on sate own lands to deliver homes for families who are above social housing thresholds but unable to reasonably afford buying a new home.

Ted Cronin about Animals.

Firstly let me tell you a bit about myself.

I am originally from Rathmore but have been in Tralee in College or working since 1982. I am married to Mary Horan.

A Rock Woman. Mary is my Rock and inspiration in my life.

I met Mary in 1988. Mary was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1991. Mary has progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

But she is the most positive, bubbly and beautiful person I know. I am Mary's Carer and I'm so blessed to be. Mary encouraged me to run in this Election because she has a great love of Animals and she knows how passionate I am

I am Deputy Leader for Party For Animal Welfare, a new Political Party in Ireland. We will be registered in the next few week. Therefore I have to run as an Independent Candidate in this Election, on behalf of Animals. I want to end all Animal cruelty in Kerry and Ireland. I want to end Hare coursing, Fox hunting, Greyhound racing, Deer culling, Protected Grey Seals culling, Puppy farms, live Animal exports, Animal experimentation.

I want to educate our Children on the importance of Animals. And how to love and care for them. The kid who loves Animals will end up to be a loving adult. I want to make people aware of the Environmental damage we are doing by how we treat Animals. And to educate them on moving to a plant based diet, and to research and educate our Farmers on moving to plant based Farms.

To make people aware about the important role Animals have to play in our mental and physical health. How we can use Animals for ADHD, autism, depression, loneliness, suicidal, less abled, schools, prisons etc. I would explore wind power to generate electricity. We are surrounded by Seas, and wind. I would ban cigarettes in all Town centres and walkways and parks.

According to a 2016 census, Kerry has almost 12,000 vacant homes. And this doesn't include Holiday Homes. Surely we can do something to help our people looking for Homes.

A lot of people are not aware that the National Digital Skills Centre of Ireland is based in......Tralee. Therefore we train people here, and them send them out of the County. I, and others, have been calling out to help these skilled people. We have been calling for a Film Studio and creative hub to be built in Kerry. We have the buildings in Tralee. We have the beauty, the coast's, the film history, the golf courses, the hotels, the People. A film studio would create thousands of jobs. It would make Kerry.

Ghandi said that a Nation can be judged by how it treats its Animals.

We treat our Animals very poorly in this County and Country.

Please help me to give a Voice to Animals.

Please Vote Number One Ted Cronin.

A Vote for care and compassion.

48 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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50 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

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Dates For Your Diary

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) Tralee Branch are delighted to announce that their annual dance will be held on Friday 14th February in The Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. Given that the dance will be taking place on Valentine’s night, this year’s theme of ‘Puppy Love’ is most appropriate.

Who doesn’t love puppies, especially those that go on to become superheroes? There are several volunteers in the area doing great work raising puppies for IGDB and we look forward to some of the puppies-in-training and other IGDB breeding dogs, ambassador dogs and working dogs being present on the night. It’s a wonderful chance to see these superheroes at work.

For those planning to make Valentine’s 2020 extra special, The Meadowlands Hotel Tralee have put together an unmissable offer which includes dinner in An Móinéar Restaurant, entry to Irish Guide Dogs Puppy Love Fundraiser Dance plus one night’s accommodation including full Irish Breakfast at only €89 per person sharing.

Come along and join us for this exciting fundraiser. Tickets €15 available at the door on the night. For more information or to prebook tickets contact guidedogstralee@gmail.com. Doors open 8.30pm.

Teen Beauty, Mindset & Confidence Workshop The Beyond Beauty workshop’s aim is to help teens in a few specific areas including skincare, health & wellbeing, makeup application, confidence building, and how to positively use social media.

Throughout the week the teens will also be creating a vision board in the workshop that displays who they are and what makes them feel beautiful, confident and happy.

Topics that will be covered throughout the week include Discovering your skin type Cleansing, toning and moisturising Why having acne isn’t your fault or identity Glowy skin Foundation matching 101 Makeup brushes Eyelash application How to be more confident Positive mentality talks How to benefit positively from using social media How to be more self aware Vision board creating “There will be a lot more topics covered and I always like to chat to the group and see what topics they are most interested in learning. From doing the last workshop I saw the teens really enjoy themselves and make new friends! As well as becoming more comfortable in their own individuality.”

“I am so so excited to be bringing the second Beyond Beauty

52 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

A Glamourous Evening at Caherleaheen Parents Association Gourmet Spring Grill supporting Hugh’s House Caherleaheen NS and Parents Association are delighted to announce that they shall be hosting their Gourmet Spring Grill fundraiser supporting Hugh’s House on Friday, March 13th in the delightful setting of the Pavilion at Ballygarry House Hotel, Tralee.

Hugh’s House charity, located on the doorsteps of both Temple Street and The Rotunda hospitals, provides free accommodation for the families of children requiring long-term hospital care. The Parents Association’s commitment to raising funds for Hugh’s House comes from their wish to show their heartfelt support for the wonderful parents of a pupil in the school who have stayed at Hugh’s House for over a year now. Jenny & Alex are parents to Sadie who is in senior infants and since the birth of their son Jake in 2018, they have never left his side in Temple Street. Jake was born with Omphalocele which means most of his internal organs were outside his body at birth.

A glamorous evening with drinks reception, full barbecue, live entertainment and amazing prizes, this is an occasion to get together in support of their charity and school fundraiser and revel in the acoustic sounds of Seamus Harty, followed by live band Arklight and DJ. The evening commences at 7.30pm . Tickets €45 per person. Admission over 18s. Visit Caherleaheen Parents Association facebook page to buy tickets online via eventbrite. ie.. Tickets also available via gourmetspringgrill@gmail.com. To donate visit idonate.ie.

Workshop to Meadowlands Hotel Tralee! I think workshops like this are really helpful for teens to learn and express themselves in a safe and supervised enviornment.

Everyone is welcome and at the last workshop there were plenty of teens who attended alone, others attended with friends.”

Rebecca has held numerous Masterclasses, A Teenage Workshop, and most recently has done a full day workshop in Presentation Secondary School Killarney with the 4th & 5th Year students.

After a sell out during the summer, Rebecca Shortt is bringing the Beyond Beauty Workshop for 1st, 2nd & 3rd years to Meadowlands Hotel Tralee during the February Midterm break.

Monday 17th - Friday 21st February from 12-3pm.

If you have any further questions you can email Rebecca at rebecca.shortt94@gmail. com.

Tickets are available on EVENTBRITE. IE, just search ‘Beyond Beauty Teenage Workshop’

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Promoting Heath in the Workplace As there is increased focus on health in the New Year, it is important for businesses to encourage and promote healthy lifestyles for their teams in the workplace.

Promoting Healthy Food

This is obviously easier to implement in staff canteens, where menus can be influenced, however, it is not limited to larger businesses. When I worked at Ernst & Young, they provided complementary healthy food options at various locations in-office. I was amazed at the positive impact this had and fruit was always snapped up.

A competition for who has the heathiest diet at work over the course of a week, might encourage positive competition.

Exercise

classes, Zumba or similar should be considered. This could encourage positive interaction between employees in a nonwork environment without work pressures.

Positivity

As technology is ever present, there is a trend to email a colleague in place of a conversation in the modern workplace.

It’s a great time for team building, but try something different such as half hour staff coffee, think-tank session once a month.

Productively & Profit

It is a proven fact that happy employees are more productive and take less leave of absence due to ill health. The focus needs to be on creating a positive work environment for all, which ultimately increases productivity and profits.

John Canty & Co. Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors 3 Denny Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry. | T: 0667127802 | M: 087 9431998 E: info@jcantyaccountants.ie | www.jcantyaccountants.ie

Although Yoga at the office is probably impractical, getting staff discounts and/or subsidising gym membership, Pilates

Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 53

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- The qualification where you earn and learn.

Enrolment for 2020/21 is Now Open

CLASH ROAD CAMPUS, Tralee & DENNY STREET CAMPUS, Tralee 066 7121 741 | LISTOWEL CAMPUS 068 21023 | MONAVALLEY CAMPUS, Tralee 066 7149 600

OPEN WEEK MONDAY 2nd - FRIDAY 6th MARCH

4 C A M P U S L O C AT I O N S | 1 8 0 C O U R S E S | 3 0 0 0 S T U D E N T S | U N L I M I T E D P O S S I B I L I T I E S

Browse/Apply www.kerrycollege.ie info@kerrycollege.ie

EUROPEAN UNION Investing in your future European Social Fund

Courses are offered subject to demand. Limited places available on certain courses.

Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 55

Kerry to Manchester

...just opened up!

Every Thursday & Sunday from March 29th #wildatlantickerry

BOOK NOW www.kerryairport.ie