Connect Lifestyle Magazine June 2022

The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

Made in Kerry, for Kerry FREEKE ME SE TA

PLEA

JUNE 2022

Sally-Ann Leahy

talks to us about her life as the Kerry Rose and embracing motherhood

O' Sullivans Bakery celebrate 70 years in business

Women in Business Awards Finalists 2022

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EDITOR'S NOTE Hi Everyone So, we have reached the midway mark of the year- June.. you would wonder where the past five months have gone so quickly, teenagers are planning their summer as the holidays have begun, the exams are in full swing for more teenagers, and our smallies are cramming in last minute school tours and teddy bears picnics, but isn’t it great considering this time last year we were all masked up and not allowed attend anything.

Speaking of attending we are busy here in the office planning our Connect Women in Business Awards, it’s all systems go for Friday June 10th we have a list of our finalists in this issue, and we will bring all the fun from the night and of course our winners in the July issue.

This month we speak to two wonderful ladies in the countyHelen O Sullivan Murphy- a lady I greatly admire always, now at the helm of the family business that has spanned over 70 years, she knows everything that happens in her business, she has drive and enthusiasm, but most of all she has a kind heart and great work ethic to all who work with her in any capacity which no doubt is a trait that has run through the business for all time.

And of course she is an amazing mum and is always running to a match or some other activity so truly an amazing lady.

With the Rose of Tralee resuming this year our next wonderful lady is Sally-Anne Leahy. Sally was the Kerry Rose for 2019, little did she think she would hold the title for this long which would see her get married have her first baby and lots lots more. She has loads to tell us about her extended reign as Kerry Rose and family life.

So, lots for you to read, lets get ready for summer and enjoy the freedom of being able to do things again and never take any day for granted Stay safe and mind each other.

Until next month

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Office Enquiries: Cathriona Murphy Print: Kingdom Printers Graphic Design: Yevgen Kalynin Editorial Contributors: Lisa Curran, Romy Birdthistle, John Canty, Mairead McMahon, Pat Harmon, Marcas Mac Domhnaill For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: margaret@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

Dealing with

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS PMS)) What is PMS? It is simply the way your hormones change during your monthly cycle, a combination of symptoms that will usually appear a week or so before your period and linger until the first few days of your period. Type and severity of symptoms do of course vary for every woman but there is no doubt that the impact it has on a women’s day to day life is not pleasant. Each woman with PMS will have her own personal pattern of symptoms some of which may include: cramps, bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, emotional issues, headaches and skin problems. The most effective way to identify if you are suffering from PMS is to keep a diary of any changes you notice coming up to your period, do this for 3 to 4 months, note how severe they are and how long they last as your doctor may need to rule out any other condition before confirming you have PMS. It is worth noting that approx 85% of women will admit to having suffered from PMS at some stage so you are by no means alone!

A lot of women will also admit that they tolerate these symptoms every month as they are not aware of the natural remedies which may help with symptoms and allow them to go about their day effectively during this difficult time. Some of these include: AGNUS CASTUS: effective in dealing with breast tenderness, cramping, headaches and heavy painful periods.

KRILL OIL FOR WOMEN: Take 2 capsules a day to help ease irritability, bloating and tiredness also beneficial for the skin.

EVENING PRIMROSE OIL, MAGNESIUM, B-VITAMINS especially B6 are other products to consider.

There are also some excellent homeopathic remedies which can be very effective, worth asking about!

As always food plays a major role in our hormone and overall health so be smart about your food choices when dealing with PMS, reduce your sugar, salt and caffeine intake as these can lead to bloating, mood swings and anxiousness. Look instead to STEVIA or XYLITOL in place of sugar and try some of the delicious herbal teas available. It is important to remember that insulin sensitivity may be reduced around the time of your period so try not to give into those sugar cravings as this will only make the situation worse. Eat regularly leading up to your period to stabilise blood sugar levels. Include plenty of high fibre and protein rich food such as wholegrain cereals, seeds, nuts, root vegetables and fruits, to keep your digestive system moving and your energy levels steady. Drink plenty of water, rather than causing you to retain more fluid, additional water will stimulate your body to flush away toxins and remove excess fluid in the process.

Remember that stress can have an effect on your blood sugar levels which may lead to cravings so try keep this under control.

Keep a bottle of Rescue Remedy or Emergency Essence handy to help with this.

Exercise helps to release feel-good chemicals known as endorphins, these can help with mood swings and keep stress levels under control and may also help keep your mind off those food cravings!!

Until next time, stay healthy DEIRDRE

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Connect Kerry

Women in Business Awards Finalists 2022

We look forward to welcoming everyone on the night.

Business of Health and Wellenss Ailis Brosnan - Healthy Fit and Vibrant Neasa O Connor - Enhance Wellness Dingle Fiona Costello - Physiotherapist Tralee Deirdre Geaney - D Movement Gym Dingle Marion Godley - Kerryhead/Balltheigue FRC Mairead McMahon - Achieve Fitness Martina Farrell - Move with Martina Ballybunion Jasmin Stallard - New Wave Wild Project Michelle Roche - Senses Wellness Castleisland Madeline Walsh - Mountain Adventure Walks

Business Services

Louise McGillycuddy - The Brand Geeks Emma Larkin - Emma Larkin Books Celene Maloney - Creative Media Fiona Leahy - Local Enterprise Office Teresa O Shea , Lorna Griffin - IPS Kerry

Business of Childcare Services Edel Lawlor - Expressive Play therapy Lorraine Smith Ross - Alanadale Childcare Clodagh O Sullivan - Expressive Play Therapy Donna Griffin - Creative Kids Killarney Margaret Gilbert - Life and Parent Coach Joelene Wallace - Oakview Childcare Services

Community Champion Mary Fitzgerald - Comfort for Chemo Lisa Curran - Autisim Awareness Mary Gardiner - Community Garda Miriam Moriarty Owens - Community worker Patricia Sheehan - Pallative Care Marie Carroll O Sullivan - Community worker killarney 4

Business of Insurance, Law Finance HR Nicola O Sullivan - HR Manager KDYS Mary Gardiner - Community Guard Susan Kelly - HR Manager Rose Hotel Vivian O'Shea - Solicitor

Business of Training and Education Katrina Galvin - Dance Teaher Laura Lee Curtin - Music Teacher Mary Murphy - Lecturer Kerry College Niamh Dywer - My Career Plan Nora Daly - NLN Donna Nelan - Source Training and Development Aoife O Reilly - South Kerry Skillnet Margaret Gilbert - Life and Parent Coach Orla Coughlan - Riasc Partnership

Construction Art/Design and Auctioneering Daire McCann - WHGiles Hillary Donaghy - Sherry Fitzgerald Tralee Majella O Sullivan - Kenmare Properties Tara Horan - Interior Designer

Floristry/ Horticulture Maura Sheehy - Mauras cottage Flowers Caroline O Connor - Flowers BY Caroline Tina Fitzmaurice - Tinas Flowerstories Jen O Leary Collins - Flowers BY Jen Kerry Brassil - Listowel garden centre

Business of Entertainment

New Business Award

Tania O Sullivan - Singer Lisa Curran - Singer Kathrina Galvin - Singer Grace Foley - Singer Mary Culloty O Sullivan - Singer Miriam, Breeda, Aine Moriarty - Johnnys Cottage Laura Lee Curtin - Singer Cathriona O Sullivan - Singer

Niamh O Carroll - Bakes By Niamh Hollie Lynch - Sugar Hype Lauren Dineen - Baby Deals Ireland Katelyn Barry - Pretty Glam Creations Catherine Casey - The Marketing Club Bernie o Donoghue - Elevate Weddings and Events Tina Fitzmaurice - Tinas Flower Stories Nicola Lawless - Dedannan Engineering Linda Hussey - Bonay Baby and Kids Boutique Orla Coughlan - Dingle Wellness

Business of Fashion Retail Carina O Shea - Carinas Killorglin Sarah Blake - East 73rd Ballybunion Nuala Keane - Blossom Boutique Listowel

Business of Technology Marie Carroll O Sullivan - Killarney Tara o Donoghue - Killarney Angela Stack - Code Stack Caroline Flynn - Caroline Flynn Photography Ciara O Donnell - Ciara O Donnell Photography

Business of Retail Consumer Services Sarah Barron - Dizzy Designs Geraldine Kelly - Very Vintage Occasions Emer Leahy - The Rock Deli, Rock Street Tralee Grainne Ryle - Ryle Pharmacy Ashe Street Sarah O Connor - Listowel Garden Centre Sarah Dineen - Caragh Jewellers Killarney Teresa Lovell Parkinson - Oriflame Cosmetics

Business of Creative Design Lauryn Moore - Twin Flame Apparel Cathy Troth - Deisgner Deirdre DE Burca - De Burca Designs Anushka Wolf - Unique Goldsmith Christine De Vries - House of Kerry Fran Fogarty - Lilymais Reelika Ollo - Reel Designs Castleisland Nina Finn - Kelcey - Izzy and Jules Creations Sarah Barron - Dizzy Designs

Business of Food Production Billy Jo O Connor - Leagh Farm Mary Thea Brosnan - Kerry Kefir Sherly Thornton - Moms Porter Cake Nicola Lynch - Zenergy Juices Niamh O Carroll - Bakes by Niamh Orla Walsh - Ballydonoghue Cookery School Aisling Griffin - Ash Bakes

Business of Marketing and Events

Celene Moloney - Creative Media Anita Michalek - Anita M Digital Emma Gill - Affinity Communications Bernie o Donoghue - Elevate Wedding and Events Nicola O Sullivan - Nicola O Sullivan PR and Events Catherine Casey - The Marketing Club Sharon Devine - Listowel Garden Centre Fallon Moore - Irish Food Awards

Outstanding Manager Mary Fitzgerald - Comfort for Chemo Joelene Wallace - Oakvview Childcare Services Aoife O Reilly - South Kerry Skillnet Siobhan McSweeney - Recovery Haven Kerry Brassil - Listowel Garden Centre Teresa Lovell Parkinson - Oriflame Cosmetics

Young Business Woman Hollie Lynch - Sugar Hype Deirdre Geaney - D Movement Gym Dingle Phillippa Ball - Pippas Pets Katelyn Barry - Pretty Glam Creations Mairead Roberts - Listowel Garden Centre Linda Hussey - Bonay Baby and Kids Boutique

Vetrinary Grooming and Animal Care JO Arbon - Holisitc Hound Lynne Stratton - Muddy Paws Dingle Aine Stack - Muddy Paws Grooming Listowel Karrie Holmes - Holmes Veterinary Dr Carina Mederle - All Creatures Vet Centre Kenmare Dr Aine Murphy - All Care Vets Killarney The Pawpad - The Pawpad Tralee Phillipa Ball - Pippas Pets Kiera Moran - Kieras Grooming Rock Street

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From ball gowns to babies, Sally Sally--Ann Leahy talks to us about her life as the Kerry Rose and embracing motherhood

By Cathriona Murphy In 2019, Sally-Ann Leahy of Causeway, Co Kerry was selected as the Kerry Rose. In shock and in turn delighted to have been given the prestigious title she started to prepare for the next 12 months.

Not anticipating in her wildest dreams that we would enter a global pandemic which would in turn extend her reign to 3 years, Sally-Ann embraced the role in what would be a rollercoaster journey. From the festival to motherhood, Sally-Ann chats to us about it all.

In 2019 Sally-Ann, you became the Kerry Rose, little did you know it would be a three-year reign! How has the experience been for you?

It has been wonderful, I never imagined when I got the Kerry Rose title that I would be holding it for nearly 3 years! 2019 was the best year, it was a busy year and a busy summer. I attended events, festivals, schools, launches of new businesses and then, of course, the festival itself. In the November after the festival, the Roses and Escorts travelled to Germany. We visited the Christmas markets in Frankfurt which was so much fun, just catching up with each other was fantastic. We then had the most beautiful masquerade ball on New Year’s Eve 2019 up in Kildare which seems like a lifetime ago now! The following March we were travelling to Chicago, we had just touched down when I checked the news on my phone to see Donal Trump had announced the St Patricks Day Parade in Chicago was cancelled. We stayed in Chicago for a few days with the hopes that maybe we might be able to walk in the New York parade, but things took a turn for the worse with Covid and everything was cancelled so we travelled home to Ireland. Heading straight into lockdowns, things have been quiet in terms of Rose duties for the last 2 years. Fortunately, in March of this year, I was afforded the opportunity to go to New York with my Fiancé Thomas and my family where I had the honour of walking in the St Patricks Day Parade 2022. It was surreal to say the least, walking down 5th Avenue with my Rose sisters! I am delighted to have gotten the opportunity to do that, it’s just been a wonderful experience.

In addition to holding a three-year reign, you welcomed a beautiful baby girl with your Fiancé Thomas, Molly-Mai. How have you adapted to your new role as a Mother?

It has been the most life changing experience becoming a mother.

It really opened my eyes to motherhood and parenthood! The love you have for your child is just like no other love it really is fabulous to experience it. We truly feel so blessed to have little miss Molly-Mai as we call her! She is just over a year old now and just full of life and energy. She has brought so much happiness and joy into our hearts and into our home, to our family. Sometimes I think back and think how am I a Mother! The last year has just gone by in the blink of an eye.

Many previous Rose’s talk about the close bonds they made with their fellow Rose’s, have you kept in contact with any of the women you met in 2019?

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I am still friends with so many of the 2019 Rose’s, the WhatsApp groups are going daily with notifications and updates. A lot of the Roses are handing over their sashes in the next few weeks so we’ve been doing up little videos for each of the Rose’s just to show on the night of the selections. It’s a lovely little memory for them to have and of course for the next rose coming along its lovely for them to see all the opportunities coming to them.

There are so many doors’ open to all of us all over the world now, which is incredible for me to know that I would be extremely welcome in any of their homes and likewise, they are welcome in mine. I would say, even the girls that were involved in the selection the year I went for it, I have remained great friends with some of them too so it’s just a wonderful opportunity. It’s an amazing community of very accomplished women with overflowing CV’s that build a sisterhood through the Rose of Tralee.

Taking on such a demanding, time consuming role cannot be easy, how supportive and understanding was Thomas and your family during the process?

We are together since 2009 and he has always been so incredibly supportive as have my family. They always encouraged me to go for the Kerry Rose but I never thought I would actually get selected? From the moment I applied, the support was phenomenal. Thomas was with me every step of the way supporting me in every way that he could. It can’t have been easy to see another man hanging off my arm for a number of

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weeks but he genuinely supported me and encouraged me at every moment. To see him grow over the last year into the role as a Father has been an absolute pleasure, he is amazing at it.

Can you tell our readers about some of the highlights and stand out moments for you personally?

It’s a very difficult question because there has been so many highlights over the last few years. One highlight was definitely walking down 5th avenue in the parade last March, it was surreal, a real pinch me moment! The Rose Ball was another that really stood out to me with it being just an incredible night. We were treated like princesses the entire night. The energy and the excitement in the dome that night was just incredible, if I could only just bottle up that feeling! Another standout moment for me was when we visited a primary school, all the little girls were standing there with their notebooks asking for my autograph, it was a little surreal, I couldn’t believe it. I remember also, when we were driving into Kerry the week of the festival having been touring Ireland, we were just coming into Tralee by the John Mitchells GAA. The bus driver asked me to come up to the front to welcome all the Rose’s into Kerry, little did I know he did it for a reason. My family and friends had gathered at the side of the road with banners and posters welcoming me home to Kerry, I got so emotional, I even get teary eyed now just thinking about it! Throughout the entire festival, I can’t explain the feeling of just meeting and greeting everyone, seeing the support that I received from the people of Kerry was just unbelievable. My house was like a florist for a few weeks!

From flowers, to cards, being gifted some beautiful products and kindly being given beautiful dresses to wear, I am so thankful for that support. I honestly can’t say it enough just how supportive the people in Kerry were, I could not have done it without them all behind me, cheering me on. Knowing what the next Kerry rose is going to experience makes me want to do it all over again, but you move on with all that you learned through the process and be as supportive to the next Rose as I can be.

The festival has drawn criticism over the years, what would you say to anyone who is critical of it?

I would say you really need to go and experience the festival for yourself, get involved in it. Whether it’s going as a spectator or attending the Rose Ball even applying to be a Rose, just get involved. Whatever it may be, just experience it for yourself because it’s certainly far from being a “lovely girls” competition. I mean, we are all lovely girls, but highly accomplished, educated, motivated young women. Why not support young women? We are so lucky as Kerry people and should be so proud to have a highly recognised, respected, international festival in the heart of our County and local town.

It’s a festival that supports women all over the world, brings their families together and what other festival does that? I know from speaking to people who would have been involved in the festival down through the years, there is a sparkle in their eye when they reminisce on it. So, I really think if you are 8

going to be negative about the festival, then you really don’t understand it or know anything about it so just get involved. Be positive about it, support women and that is the spirit of the festival, women supporting women.

With that said, the festival organisers have announced changes to the application process, do you feel those changes are welcomed and perhaps overdue?

Absolutely I feel the changes are very welcome. We have some girls who would have wanted to apply but perhaps were a year or two too old to apply but now they can. Why not have a married woman as a Rose? Why not have a Mother apply? Why not let a transgender woman apply? Of course they should be entitled to apply and I think it’s just wonderful that the entry requirements have changed to allow them to. I think it has definitely broadened the amount of women that can apply and each and every one of them will be welcomed with open arms. At the end of the day, we are an ever changing society that needs to accept women in all shapes and forms.

What are you hoping for your own life in the next few years?

My motto in life is to stay positive, keep smiling and just keep my health. There are only two things I ever wish for in life and that is my health and happiness for my family and my friends. If I can ever do any good or support anyone or any charities, I am always willing to do so.

And finally, to any young lady reading this and perhaps always dreamed of applying, what would you tell them to encourage them?

I would say absolutely apply, fill out the application form and fulfil that dream of yours. There is only one person that can go through, so why not let it be you? When I met all the wonderful women that I was up against, I never thought I had a chance of winning. Even if you don’t get selected as the Kerry Rose, you will have an experience that will retain with you for the rest of your life. I always tell people; you have nothing to lose only always something to gain. In terms of opportunity, I just wanted to experience as much as I could. When I became the Kerry Rose back in 2019, I really encompassed the ethos of saying yes to every opportunity and I genuinely don’t think there was one event that I was asked to that I didn’t go too? I just wanted to say yes to every opportunity and experience as much as I could.

I would also just like to finish by saying a huge thank you to each and every person I met along the way who supported me in any way that they could. It has been a fabulous reign and experience that I am so proud of, so thankful for having the opportunity and I am so excited for the next Kerry Rose to experience it all for herself.

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Kerry's favorite family bakery, O' Sullivans

celebrate 70 years in business

By Cathriona Murphy

Nestled in the heart of Killorglin, O' Sullivans family bakery has been providing award winning products for an amazingly successful 70 years. Recently I sat with proprietor, Helen O' Sullivan who is the third generation at the helm, leading the business into the future for the next generation.

Helen, firstly congratulations on 70 years in business! Can you tell us a little about how it started and how you became involved in it?

My Grandparents, Thomas and Margaret O’ Sullivan, they set it up in April of 1952 in Langford Street, Killorglin. My Grandfather had previously been managing a local public house, however, that was sold off and led him to getting into the bakery trade. They set up the original bakery in their garage area at the back of their house. My Father always had a keen interest in baking so he went off to college in England to study bakery, all of his siblings would have been involved in the bakery along the years but in the end it was my Grandfather driving the delivery van and 2 bakers. When I came along, I decided when I grew up I was going to go into the food business. My Dad would have always been insistent that I had something to fall back on, so he encouraged me to go and get a degree which I did. In 1999 I joined the family business permanently after I returned from a year of travels in Australia. I’ve been there since, making me the third generation of our family business. I have three daughters myself who all like baking, but whether or not they want to be self-employed and manage people remains to be seen!

In 70 years you have been sure to have seen some hardships in the world as business owners, how as a business have you navigated the difficulties?

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We have gone through some very strange times in the last while. We have seen recessions, extreme weather conditions and lockdowns in a pandemic but it has really made people more reliant on local business. The beast from the east weather event for example, how it affected Kerry was that the national players were unable to come to Kerry due to the extreme road conditions. So, because the supply was reduced, they created the demand within Kerry. That has become one of our selling points, that we can deliver locally.

Have you had to make changes along the years to how you operate the business?

We do modernise, but not through production. We still have six bakers because we feel there is a lot of craft involved with it. Our deliveries have changed with technology which has really sped up the administrations side of things. It’s not easy to implement change, our staff have been with us for a very long time. One staff member that retired 6 years ago, he had been with us for and incredible 51 years.

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When some businesses are currently finding it hard to retain staff, you have successfully built a model where you retain staff for decades at times, all the while never losing customer loyalty, how do you manage it?

We have grown up with a lot of the staff, they really are like family to us. All of the staff were guests at my wedding. Even customers have become good, close friends. I would have previously been on the road a lot delivering and it gave me the opportunity to really get to know our customers and form good, lasting, relationships and friendships. I think every business goes through cycles, you have good cycles and bad cycles. But my management style is that I try to be as accommodating as possible and I get stuck in myself. The staff see that I’m not afraid to do the job myself, I wouldn’t ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. The hours aren’t very long and it allows them time to do their own thing outside of the bakery. For example, one of the bakers has his own farm and he finishes at 1am in the bakery, that still gives him time to get a good sleep and be up for 9am. Its offering them flexibility in the times they work and the social aspect of it. This past year was particularly difficult with absences due to covid and injuries sustained outside of work but we got through it thankfully.

We are very lucky that the people here in Kerry are very loyal to local products and local producers, but with that said, we would have always had good quality. People know that about our product, its good quality bread, real bread that isn’t full of preservatives or additives. That’s why our bread is best on day 1.

What plans do you have for the business for the next 12 months and do you see yourselves delving into the gluten free market?

This year actually we have a good few plans! We will be doing a renovation on the bakery to make it a little bit more flexible with different ovens which will hopefully lead to new products and new developments. So, we have a few ideas of different things that we will do and hopefully working with some fantastic local Kerry suppliers. At the moment we do sliced pans, soda bread and wholemeal bread which would a high fibre product. We have a range of spelt bread, we were actually one of the first bakeries in the country to use spelt flour, having a lot of other companies then follow our lead. We featured in the European Baker at the time for our spelt bread when we first brought it out. Our barn brack is one of our most popular products, we have won a lot of awards for it. There are no current plans for gluten free because if you want to produce a gluten free product you need to have a separate area, machines, staff and storage to ensure there is no cross contamination with gluten products. If we were ever to go down that line we would realistically have to build a second bakery, it’s not something I would rule out but at the moment it’s just not a part of our plans.

Have you any celebrations in mind to mark your 70 years in business and celebrating 70 years of a strong family working relationship?

Yes, 70 years can you believe it! I will have a party including family and staff, past and present, I just have to organise myself! We are

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very lucky that all my Father’s siblings are still with us so they will be there which will be amazing because they are the ones that will have the old stories of the business, along with staff members of past. Mom and Dad still pop into the bakery whether it’s for a cup of tea or for dad to calculate the baking.

I have a brother who works in the slicing section but I have remained the sole owner of the company. I am fortunate to have a great relationship with both my father and my brother, I have always said that the personal relationship finishes at the door and it becomes an employee situation, it’s the easiest way to do it.

You have three daughters yourself, have you found it difficult to raise a family whilst running a successful business?

My husband is also self-employed in a completely different industry so for the two of us it’s certainly not easy. I have 3 daughters and they would have all come to work with me from 5 weeks old. We got them christened very young and they were in the bakery every day, they know all the staff, all the drivers and all their routes, they know it all! I can do a lot of my work remotely but if I need to go in, I have a room set up for them upstairs that they can do their homework if needs be. I remember, Orla was 5 weeks old and I needed to get a van serviced in Castleisland but Orla also needed her BCG. I dropped off the van, brought her to get her injection and back down to collect the van, so really you could catch me doing any kind of work!

Finally, Helen, what would you like to say to our readers today?

For anyone that has ever bought from us, be it an individual or a shop, to all our staff past and present, we are so extremely grateful for the years of loyalty. We are so thankful that we are still here, there has been a number of family bakeries across Kerry who have unfortunately had to close their doors. It’s not easy to be selfemployed and run your own business so we are forever grateful to everyone who supports us in any little way and hope to be around for another 70 years!

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Ask the Pharmacist In this instalment of our Ask The Pharmacist series, Mounthawk Allcare’s Pat and Maria discuss how to survive the stress of exam season.

“June is here and as always this month heralds the onset of the dreaded state exams.

We all remember the stress of this period of our lives, cramming the night before an exam in the hope that this will make up for 2 years of not listening in class (unfortunately this tactic did not work out so well for us). For those of you preparing to sit exams, we feel your pain. It is a time of high emotions, the culmination of years of state schooling and you no doubt will want to perform to the best of your ability. To this end we have compiled a list of some of the products available to you to assist you in reaching your goals.

Revive Teen Active is a super supplement, manufactured in Ireland, that contains a wealth of ingredients deigned to fuel a teenagers’s active lifestyle. It is a sachet that you dissolve in water and take on schooldays to give you the boost you need to get through the horrors of the school day. It contains 22 ingredients including Zinc for improved cognitive function, numerous B vitamins which are essential for energy production and Panothenic Acid which is proven to improve mental performance. It also contains a blend of beneficial bacteria to keep the gut healthy. We have had really good feedback from people who have used this product.

Also from the Revive Active crew, we stock Mastermind which is a super supplement containing 11 active ingredients proven to support the brain, including Choline, Uridine and Omega 3 DHA. This supplement is only licensed for teenagers 14 years and over and is proving to be very popular among students. Of course it can be used for adults as well so college students also would find it of benefit. This product will help you to keep your focus and reduce fatigue.

Zenflore is a capsule containing a patented probiotic culture as well as various B vitamins.

This creation comes from the same people who developed the Alflorex probiotic which has been a real game changer in the management of IBS symptoms.

Again, this is a really popular product for all those who may

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suffer from digestive upset brought on by the stress of exam time.

Pharmaton is a product that has been around for a long time and contains a unique blend of vitamins and minerals and also Ginseng which is proven to improve alertness. This product is more for adults who need a boost and increase in energy levels and is a must for college students.

Bach Rescue Remedy is a handy antidote to periods of stress in your life. It comes in a spray form or liquid melt form that will dissolve in your tongue. These tried and trusted products have been around for nearly 100 years and are so handy for overcoming stressful times in your life. This could be if you had to give a presentation in class, before your driving test etc. Here in Mounthawk Pharmacy, every staff member swallows half the bottle every time we need to go the gym to try and lose weight.

It really does work and is a natural product, derived from flowers and we recommend it for anyone to try for themselves.

The above is just a quick summary of some of the products we sell in Mounthawk that can help you to stay physically and mentally on top of your game. However, as with all things in life there is no substitute for hard work. You can take as many supplements as you like but you must put in the hard graft too. Look on exam time as an opportunity to show what you do know, not what you don’t. The Junior and Leaving certificate exams are important but the results will not define the person you are or what you will end up doing in life. There are many ways of becoming an accountant or a doctor these days and not all of them start with a student needing 7 H1’s in their Leaving to do so. Whether you take the direct route or the scenic route, once you end up at the same end point nobody will care how you got there. Remember to eat well and take plenty of study breaks.

Meet up with friends and go for walks to clear your head. Don’t stay up all night the night before an exam in the hope you will magically cram everything in. There is no substitute for a good night’s sleep.

The staff of Mounthawk Allcare Pharmacy would like to wish all the students of Kerry success in the Junior and Leaving Certificate examinations this June. Do your best and then you will have no regrets. Best of luck!”

E: mounthawk@allcarepharmacy.ie Ph: (066) 712 8989 mounthawkallcarepharmacy

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Summer Holiday Essentials

A Guide to Packing Light!

When I told my husband I was writing this article, he was visibly amused! I am that person that wants to check in a bag for a two-night city break…

So perhaps this article is more for me than you guys… perhaps… With Kerry Airport on our doorstep, (best airport in the world IMO!) so many destinations available to us AND the summer holidays, just around the corner - I thought my June article would be perfect timing to write this article.

The boring stuff but absolutely essential.. .

Let’s get this stuff out of the way first - Passport, travel insurance, any covid related documentation, boarding pass, sunglasses, charger, adapters, wallet, earphones, face masks and disinfectant wipes. Check? Done…now let’s get packing!

Just the Ticket pouch from the Kilkenny Store

Carry - on 'handbag' - The MVP..

I always push this to the absolute max and bring the biggest ‘handbag’ I own. I pack all the above essentials in a mini pouch and place in this bag. It 16

just means you are not fishing around frantically looking for your boarding pass at check in, after a glass or two of vino at the airport bar! I pack a large neutral scarf, usually beige, that can work also as a mini blanket on the plane and perfect to throw over your shoulders on cooler summer evenings. I sometimes pack one or two Hobbs bag. other handbags and anything Avail able at hobbs.com heavy/valuable that will weigh down your carry-on luggage in this bag. I recently bought this big basket bag from Hobbs and I absolutely adore it. The quality is amazing, it fits a ton and looks so chic.

Mini's..

Not to state the obvious, but toiletries weigh a ton.

I buy mini empty bottles in Penney’s or Boots and fill them up with all Caudalie Sunscreen my favourites beauty favourites. I have quite sensitive skin, so I either get minis of my sunscreen or fill up the mini bottles. I absolutely adore Caudalie, as its gentle on my skin, water-resistant, respects the marine ecosystems and smells amazing!

Airport Chic. . I like to look stylish and put

together at the airport, yet practical and comfy. If I’m trying to pack light, I will generally wear this outfit on the way home too, with maybe a different top. I will wear my sunhat to the airport and heaviest shoes, to keep space in my luggage.

you can wear from day to night! Also, a nice flowy dress is super handy for those hot and sticky days (or when you are feeling bloated towards the end of the holiday ).

Shoes, glorious shoes!

Like most women, I adore shoes and have quite the collection. But really when you are up against Ryanair and their strict weight rules, you really only need three A classic airport ootd is a pair pairs max! Trainers Louise Cooney of trainers, bicycle shorts or for the airport and via Instagram leggings, tee and oversized blazer. also walking and The blazer can be then worn on exploring whilst nights out, thrown over your pretty summer dress. away, a neutral Castañer wedges via net-a-porter.com pair of flip flips and wedges/high You want to be comfy on sandals. Think tan, black or any holidays, so I would always pack metallics so you are guaranteed Zara slides some relaxed layers and loose they will go with every outfit. from zara.com cuts. Choose a colour palette for your holiday wardrobe, so you can mix and match with other outfits. Warm shades of brown Swim suits don’t take up a ton of space, but I try to and orange are the perfect pack two or three suits in total. One bikini for tanning partner to blue skies. Or keep in and one or two one-pieces that can double up as neutral with beige, cream and tops with shorts. khaki. I love navy and white stripes Next - shorts in summer and classic staples in So, if you are lucky enough to be going out foreign cream or white are my absolute as they say, I hope you find the above guide helpful. favourites for a fresh take.

We have all gone a bit rusty when it comes to travel in a post Covid world. Enjoy yourself, make memories Definitely pack a pair of denim and linen shorts. I love and have a drink for me! Cheers to Summer Holidays this denim pair from Next, as they are high waisted, 2022! Keep an eye on my Facebook and Instagram and wide on the leg, so ultra-flattering. Of course, to see how I style my outfits. For any fashion or beauty pack a couple of light tanks and tee’s to go with the queries, please email laurahollystylist1@gmail.com aforementioned shorts.

Back to basics..

Swimwear..

All of theLinen Linen. . is the ultimate summer vibe!

H&M linen shirt

Pack at least two linen shirts, one semi fitted and one more relaxed or oversized. They will probably be your most worn summer items on your holiday and can be worn so many ways. Pair your relaxed white linen shirt over your bathing suit, as a chic cover up or knot it up with a pair of linen or denim shorts. The high street do amazing linen at really affordable prices.

Laura xxx @laurahollystyle Laura Holly

Pretty Dresses..

This is where I fall down! I tend to pack a pretty dress for each night! They are light, so see what you can fit in. I’d recommend a LBD, a maxi and one or two shorts dresses

! ! s r e Che

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HOLIDAYS Firstly holidays are a time to relax, unwind, and enjoy and that's what you should do. If you have just begun your healthy lifestyle or a fat loss journey, you may be worried that you will regress while holidaying. We need to remember that this journey is not just for the short term - this is our new norm and holidays and celebrations are an important part of it.

All that said here are some simple tips that will help keep us on our path: Eat a healthy breakfast - fruit, natural yogurt, eggs - avoid greasy frys or too much bread Salads with a Protein source or omlette are a great lunch option and they always taste better on holidays Enjoy your evening meal - make sure of a Protein source Fish is a stable of the Mediterranean diet and a great option Drink plenty of water - aim for at least 2-3 L per day Opt for ice pops instead of ice cream- ice pops are much lower in calories.

Eg a magnum classic has 250 calories while a calippo has just 90 calories.

Walk - keep your steps up. Avoid sitting by the pool all day. Get up and active.

A walk on the beach or Promenade, a nice stroll after eating.

Aim to swim every day or even get in the pool and walk around Go on day trips or sightseeing tours Drink water between alcoholic drinks. You will keep hydrated and consume less.

Avoid high calorie cocktails- choose wisely

Enjoy, relax and straight back into your routine when you get back.

We offer affordable options for all your fitness needs.

Services - Building Strength - Losing weight - Personal Training - Fitness Classes 18

Monavalley Tralee 085 2689880

@Achievefitnessirl

BABY & KIDS CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

bonaybabyandkids bonaybabyandkids

FOLLOW US TO VIEW OUR FULL RANGE 19

Romy Birdthistle, Makeup Aritst, Educator and Owner of Paradise Salon & Academy

Hopefully the good weather is on its way so let have a look at how to summer proof your makeup

Get the right Moisturiser

Getting your skincare right is as important as getting your foundation right! Use an Oil free moisturiser as it will be less likely to leave your face greasy throughout the day, especially in the warmer weather.

Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Water Gel Daily Face Moisturizer by Nutrogena ticks all the boxes for a great summer option

Layer on the Sunscreen and Wear a lighter foundation So the next reccomended steps can actually be covered with one of my absolute hero products which is the IT Cosmetics CC cream. IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+. provides a full coverage, sun damagedeflecting, brightening and hydrating finish. There's an option for every skin type too - Cream is for Normal of dryer skin tones, the illuminating option adds a beautiful glow and radiance and the mattifying option is great for oily skin types. You can get the full IT cosmetics range in CH Chemist Tralee

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Invest in a great Primer A great Primer will make all the difference to how long your makeup lasts and how it sits on your skin. The Sculpted by Aimee Beauty Base is an all-in-one moisturising primer that preps, protects and perfects in one simple application. The Beauty Base features light-reflecting microparticles that create a subtle golden glow. Available in select Pharmacies and Dunnes Stores

Give your shadow staying power For longer-lasting eyeshadow, avoid using eye cream on your lids and smooth on an eye primer instead. The bPerfect Perfect Prime eyeshadow Primer is versatile with a lightweight cream formula gives ultimate staying power for vibrant and long lasting colour. It's Crease-proof and long wearing.

Always finish with a setting Spray The final step in getting your makeup to last all day and night is to spritz on a makeup setting spray to seal in your look. I have a couple that are staples in my Makeup kit. My two favourites are the Urban Decay All Nighter and the Iconic London Prep, Set & Glow

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...Annbury's

By Cathriona Murphy

This month, in our Style Focus, we popped into Annbury’s to chat with one of Tralee’s most beloved characters, Danny Leane. With women’s fashion for every shape and size at the heart of Danny’s business, Annbury’s has long been hailed as one of Tralee’s most stylishly inclusive store’s. Danny met with me to chat about why Annbury’s has been such a success story.

Danny, it’s a pleasure to chat to you! Can you tell our readers who may not be familiar with Annbury’s a small bit about yourself and the business?

I always had a real love for fashion and was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to work with Sainsbury’s in their fashion department.

Leading on from that, I had the opportunity to open my own boutique in 1999 so I just went for it and opened the doors in Church St, Tralee. Moving to Ashe St, I eventually settled the store in one of Tralee’s most fashionable areas, Abbey Court.

I’ve always been very passionate about women being entitled to fashionable clothing no matter what size they are, so that’s why I stocked from size 18 to 28/30 although we now stock sizes 12-30.

How do you feel attitudes have changed towards the plus size market? There is a lot of conversation online but are the changes tangible?

It is getting a bit better but there is still a long way to go, with a lot of high-street stores it’s only some of their stores that stock the bigger sizes. I believe, every lady is entitled to walk into a store and try on clothing in their size, no matter what their size may be. They should never feel uncomfortable or belittled by staff. I’ve had customers in the past where it might have taken them a few attempts to walk through my doors never mind even going into the dressing room. We try our best to give every customer a good experience, make them feel relaxed in a light hearted way but by still giving them the most expert advice that will keep them in good stead for everyday life.

As one of the most recognised voices of fashion in Kerry, what trends and styles do you foresee for Autumn/Winter?

What I see coming in the next few months is clothing that is very versatile and very practical. Even with dresses you are going to see a huge shift to designs that can be dressed up or dressed down so that people will get the value out of it. Blazers are going to go nowhere; you can just do so many things with a well fitted blazer. We are moving into high summer so colours are going to get brighter and fresher like that beautiful bright orange that’s around? That orange will slowly

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deepen into Autumn into a beautiful rich, burnt orange. Similarly, the khaki green will deepen into deeper, earthier shades of khaki green. Prints will still be very big with colours such as rich teal going through them that will complement the earthy tones.

It can be daunting and intimidating going into a boutique for some people, to ask for that help in styling. What would you say to someone who is thinking of coming to your store but maybe feels like they cannot ask for the help?

You need to leave your mind open.

Take a blazer for example, you can get a blazer with a broader back, shorter lengths, ¾ blazers etc. It’s all about proportion when it comes to styling, you have to style for your shape. Like I always say, there is a dress for every woman, it’s just about finding the right shape and keeping everything in proportion.

Always try things on, you can be very surprised what clothing will look like on the body as opposed to the 2d shape on the hanger. No matter where you go shopping, shop with an open mind and say no to nothing. With myself and the girls in the shop, you are getting the best advice and years of expertise to get the very best look for yourself. Being trendy isn’t the most important thing because current trends won't suit every shape and size. A trend is only for a short period, style is forever.

Finally, Danny, can you tell us about any exciting new labels in your store and what to expect?

We recently introduced a new label to the store called Ora, it has become very popular because it’s just one of those labels you will never be underdressed or overdressed in it. If you are a person who never knows what to wear, there will be something in Ora that you will feel good in and comfortable wearing. The label themselves are getting the cuts just so right at the moment, each piece they produce is just stunning. The minute I get in a new delivery from Ora, everything is gone within a few days, it is just going to get better and better as a label as the seasons go on. So, whether you are a new customer or a client of old, do pop in to myself and the girls if you are passing. We are always on hand to help you find what you need or even for a chat, we are always delighted to see everyone.

For more information contact Annbury’s on 066 7117117

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What is The Early Years Support Centre (EYSC)?

A: The Early Years Support Centre (EYSC) is a state-of-the-art Centre founded in 2016 and based in Oakview Village, Tralee.

What does the EYSC provide?

A: We provide a variety of services for Children & Adolescents in Tralee and the wider Kerry Area with the aim of offering families access to an inclusive and holistic approach to their child’s learning, development, and wellbeing. We offer families access to services such as Play Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy and Family Coaching services.

What type of Assessments and Therapy can the EYSC offer?

A: We offer Occupational Therapy by way of the following Assessments – Full AgeAppropriate Assessments, Sensory Integration, Play Based, Handwriting, and Review Assessments followed by tailored Therapy Plans to suit the Clients’ individual needs if required.

Occupational Therapy Room

Apart from Occupational Therapy, what other Services does the EYSC provide?

A: We also provide Play Therapy, Parent & Adolescent Coaching with Family Support Referrals, and Educational Psychology Referrals.

Is there somewhere Parents can wait: Yes, absolutely. If the Parent/s choose their Child attend the Assessment/Therapy without their presence, we have a Waiting Area with Tea & Coffee making facilities available.

Play Therapy Room

If the Child cannot attend the Early Years Support Centre for an OT Assessment, can the Therapist conduct the Assessment in the Child’s own home?

Yes, We will make the necessary arrangements so the OT can make a Home-visit.

Our Waiting Area

We are aware that there is a huge need for this Service, especially as we emerge from the pandemic, therefore, we are trying to increase our visibility so Families in the local areas know that we are open and are providing these Services.

The Team also makes outreach calls to Schools, Preschools and Local Family Resource Centres.

Family Support / Visits can be arranged for the Therapists to come and talk to Parents / Teachers / Staff either 1:1 Counselling Room or group workshops on sensory integration, DCD, gross and fine motor skills. During these visits, the Therapists will share information about the Early Intervention and School-aged supports available and the key areas to look out for and support when working with Children and Adolescents.

For further information or to book an Assessment, please call 086 138 2126 or email us at: eysc@oakviewhouse.ie Our Therapist will be happy to call you to discuss your options and ensure that you avail of the correct services.

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One of Dingle’s hidden gems, Dingle wellness One of Dingle’s hidden gems, Dingle wellness is nestled in the heart of Ballydavid with spectacular view of Smerwick Harbour.

A calm and inviting location in the West of Kerry, Dingle Wellness first opened their doors in August 2021. Clients are invited to avail of the wide range of seaweed based holistic treatments such as Seaweed Baths, Massage, Reflexology and Reiki in a beautifully decorated spa inspired by local surroundings.

Led by Orla Coughlan, and her business partner Sean TP O’ Conchuir, the team passionately believes in the restorative power of Wild Atlantic Seaweed, designing a broad range of Wellness Treatments on health principles dating back hundreds of years.

Speaking to Orla, she told us ‘We believe each client has a unique story and many of our clients have suffered physical or mental health impacts from Covid 19. We pride ourselves on tailoring unique packages for each client’s needs. We listen to their story; we respect their budget, (seaweed baths start at e35 pp) and we aim for everyone to leave feeling less stressed and detoxified’.

Orla explained how one of the key early learnings was that Seaweed which is freshy harvested every day, is subject to weather conditions, not something more conventional spas have to worry about. Each client that enters the spa, can be sure that every product used is fresh and of the best quality to insure maximum results. Orla is currently creating retreat packages for individuals

and corporate clients, which encompass partnerships with BEO Fitness, and Reiltin Yoga Retreats.

As a co-founder of the ‘Baile Bathers’ swimming group and a daily sea swimmer, Orla encourages clients to start their visit to Dingle Wellness with a dip in the sea right outside the front door. ‘We love what we do & that reflects in our work and how we relate to each client. In addition to our own services, Dingle Wellness is built on a philosophy of partnership and collaboration. Myself and my team have sourced products from Ri Na Mara, another Gaeltacht/Wild Atlantic Way company based in Spideal, and many of our interiors are from the Coachhouse in Dingle’.

Accommodation can also be arranged onsite for those who wish to stay a night or two in Ballydavid, including budget family style rooms in the Coastguard Lodge and more luxurious rooms overlooking the sea which have a private entrance to the spa. For further inquiries please contact 086 0621591 or email hello@ dinglewellness.com

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The Phoenix Womens Centre provides supports, guidance, counselling, advocacy and signposts women to specialist agencies depending on their needs and difficulties. We aim to Empower women to build resilience and effect meaningful positive change in their lives.

A large part of our work is devoted to preventative strategies, workshops and training. Our aim is to prevent women from being excluded from participation in learning, upskilling, jobs, self employment, social events and importantly preventing women from experiencing a lack of confidence to speak up on their own behalf.

We also believe in the importance of networking and peer support; we organise walks, outings and social activities.

QUIZ NIGHT

Friday 24th June 2022 Please join us for a fun night – win some raffle prizes ! (including three original pieces of Art donated by local artists)

Test your trivia knowledge The Klub Gastro Bar, Kerin's O'Rahilly's GAA Club,Tralee 7.30 for 8.00p.m. start

Raffle Prizes!

Prizes for winners!

Teams of 4, €5 per person Phoenix Women’s Centre, Market Place, Maine Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry.

Tel 066 9130430 Email: info@phoenixwomenscentre.ie www.phoenixwomenscentre.ie www.facebook.com/PhoenixWomensCentre 26

Oral Hygiene

by Dr Roisin Boyle

When we brush our teeth, we are only cleaning approximately 60% of the surfaces of our teeth. Interdental cleaning aids can clean the 40% missed by toothbrushing alone.

There are different methods that we can use to reach the areas between the teeth. These include using dental floss, interdental brushes, flossettes, dental sticks, superfloss or water flossers.

Using these mechanical methods to remove the plaque is much more effective than using mouthwashes. The most effective option is using interdental brushes between the teeth for example, TePe brushes. These should be used daily, rinsed after use and discarded when filaments are worn. The brushes come in different sizes. The correct size should fit easily but snugly between the teeth. Never force it into the space. They are ideal for cleaning difficult to reach areas at the back of the mouth.

Water flossers can be a convenient alternative to interdental brushes for people who find it too difficult to use the interdental brushes or floss. However, they are not as effective as the other options. They are, however, better that not using anything between the teeth.

49, Sráid na Carraige Uachtarach, Trá Lí, Co. Chiarraí 49 Upper Rock Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry Ph: (066) 712 1457 | | fiacloir@gmail.com www.macdomhnailldental.ie

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Connecting with our Health in our Secound Spring A few Sundays ago CONNECT provided an amazing forum for us ladies to “Connect with our Health”. Our MC for the day was Deirdre Walsh, the perfect person for the job as she talks about health every week on Radio Kerry.

The day provided so much advice and tips. The most important “Take Home Message” for me was that physical health and emotional wellbeing are intricately intertwined.

There was a lovely informal atmosphere and people interacted so well with the speakers.

First up we met David O’ Brien who is an international expert on fitness and wellness. He pointed out how we need to pace ourselves and make sensible, gradual changes for our wellbeing. The fabulous Dee Keogh also motivated women about how to make the best of life; her upbeat “yes we can” attitude is always great for instilling motivation in us!

Erina McSweeney is an amazing nutritionist who introduced the concept of low carb and how to do intermittent fasting.

We learned that if we overload our bodies with carbohydrates constantly we run the risk of

developing diabetes. I found Erina very motivational and can see how her approach would work well for women. Not only does she provide advice she also runs small group cookery demonstrations. We found out all about the right foods for getting calcium, iron and Vitamin D. Being vegan or vegetarian doesn’t stop you getting healthy food.

Ailis Brosnan is a Personal Trainer who looked at various ways of incorporating exercise into our lives. Exercise is important for our protecting our bones and also a great destresser. Ailis certainly made it possible for any woman to find an exercise that suits them. Not everyone understands the value of strength training to stop our bones, muscles and collagen from depleting in later life. We reach our peak bone mass in our 20’s; minding our bones is important for preventing osteoporosis.

Avoiding hip fractures is so important as a lot of women do not return full independent living after such falls.

It was great to hear Susan Lawlor talk about how to she survived a major tragedy in her life. Pauline Russell, who is an amazing Qigong and Tai Chi instructor put us through our paces; this really showed us the power of mindfulness.

We learned about acupuncture, homeopathy and supplements as well as the value of HRT for menopause.

Grainne Ryle highlighted how valuable your pharmacist can be; not every ailment needs a trip to the doctor.

And of course no day out would be complete without talking about beauty.

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At menopause we lose 40% of our collagen and this can cause sagginess, jowls. Mary O’Donoghue pointed out that we hide our bodies behind clothes but our face and hair is always on display. When we are not happy with how our skin and hair looks it affects our confidence at any age.

Mary stressed the need for the right skin products as we get older. We heard about dermarolling (my dermaroller is still in its box!!!), microneedling, hyaluronic acid. Definitely the phrase “No pain no Gain” springs to mind.

And of course the CHRC Bon Secours Clinic got all the up-todate information from Mary O’Donnell on managing hair loss and we heard about the amazing machines they have for body treatments.

Seabody products were introduced by Helena McMahon.

Seaweed based but the science behind them was amazing.

There were so many new products showcased- RELIFE skincare, JuicePlus. The amazing ZENERGY juice detoxes “an apple a

day…….could make me the doctor surplus to requirement”.

Seabody supplements from our local seaweed. We found out that there are so many specialists on our doorstep in Kerry.

So this was CONNECT’s first health event but I am sure it won’t be the last. Definitely a great concept for a health fair. And I am sure the next one will be even bigger and better

by Dr Mary McCaffrey

Register your interest for our next Connect With your Health which will be held in Early October Email us on Margaret@connectpublications.ie

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c i s u M

m o d g n i in the K

l l i e N ' O Megan

By Lisa Curran

Hello Megan! I have to admit that speaking to you makes me feel so old! I remember you being such a beautiful little girl singing and now you are such an accomplished and qualified young woman!

Lets clue everyone in on how you started your music journey here in Kerry.

Was music always your first choice as a career?

Not always! I always enjoyed music growing up. I played a lot of traditional music when I was young and I really enjoyed singing and music. I always wanted to be a primary school teacher! However, music became a huge part of my life in secondary school. When it came to making a decision on what I wanted to do in college, it was only then that I decided I wanted to study music. And to be honest, I’m so glad I made that choice! Sharon Reidy, my teacher in Kerry, played a massive role in helping me decide on what I wanted to do with my future, and I am forever grateful for all of her guidance and her incredible knowledge on vocal technique and teaching. She gave me a great start!

What further education have you achieved and how was that journey for you?

So I did music at Maynooth University, which was more academic based rather than performance based. I did a lot of choral singing and Gregorian chant in Maynooth, which was so enjoyable. I was also part-time at The Royal Irish Academy of Music at this point, studying with Mary Brennan. At the end of my Degree in Maynooth, I decided I wanted to focus more on opera, and so I auditioned for the Masters in Music Performance Degree at the Royal Irish Academy of Music. I was accepted into this course, and I worked really hard to catch up on everything that I had missed. I haven’t looked back since starting this Degree, it really helped me to become the singer that I am today. Currently, I am in second year of the Doctor in Music Performance Degree at the RIAM, where I

am really focusing on my vocal technique and getting more experience performing.

I am having such a brilliant time! Both the RIAM and Maynooth are incredible colleges and I am really enjoying this journey.

You have won multiple awards,especially lately and they are so well deserved! Tell everyone how they came about and what they mean to you, what opportunities they bring to you and your career.

This year has been amazing! I moved back to Dublin in August, and since then, I have been working non-stop. The Feis Ceoil went very well for me this year. I won the German Government Cup, and the Gervase Elwes Memorial Cup, which was honestly just amazing.

And to add to that, I was then eligible to apply for the RDS bursary, which I won! I was awarded 15,000euro and an engagement with the National Symphony Orchestra and a recital at the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris are part of this award. I’m still in shock, it’s honestly incredible. As well as this, I filmed a short opera with Irish National Opera and Dumbworld Production Company called ‘Scorched Earth Trilogy’ which was released in March, and I also played the role of Signora Avoglio in ‘All the Angels’ by Nick Drake.

It was amazing to perform live as well as record and film an opera, and I learnt so much from these experiences.

What is the next move? What’s the dream journey from here?

I will be playing the role of Cinderella at Wexford Opera Festival in November, which is so exciting. It has always been a dream of mine to be a part of this festival, so I’m delighted! I am also playing the lead role of Jane in the film opera ‘DreamCatchr’ by Kevin O’Connell. This has been filmed and will be released in due course.

I am a member of the company chorus with Irish National Opera, and so I will be involved in their upcoming projects. The dream is to always be singing as my job! Being on stage brings me such joy, nothing will ever compare to that feeling. I would love to sing in opera houses in Europe, such as Stuttgart and Munich, but I have another bit to go! I am enjoying every second of my musical journey.

How has the support been from those here in the kingdom and where can people watch your journey and see you perform?

First and foremost, my family has been absolutely incredible. I wouldn’t be in this career without their guidance and help. They will always be my number one supporters! My friends and neighbours have also been brilliant, and I appreciate all the support!

My Twitter: MeganONeill_1 and my Instagram: meganoneill_soprano is where I post all of my updates.

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