Connect Lifestyle Magazine June

- Celebrating Father's Day The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

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PLEASE TAKE ME JUNE 2020

Deirdre Walsh Still Plenty to TALK ABOUT

DAITHÍ Ó SÉ

Garda Mary Gardiner “We are all in this together”

TALKS CAREER, FAMILY AND HIS BELOVED KERRY FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE ....Made in Kerry, for Kerry

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2 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

EDITOR'S NOTE

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Well what can I say… its been a bit of a roller coaster these past months. Sitting in the office on Thursday March 12th hearing on the radio that the schools were to be closed on Friday March 13th was the beginning of the unknown journey for us all. I had just had coffee with a friend and we were discussing life... we hugged and said, ‘see you next week’, did we ever think that would be the last hug as we know it for a long time. Covid 19 took over our lives really, it changed the way we work and for the majority it too work from us, it stopped us seeing our families and loved ones and I feel in particular for the very young and the very old in our society it has taken life from them in a very harsh way.

I know we have lost many lives through all this and each one of those lives is one too many, we join with their families in remembering them as we write this. None of us every want to face the death of a loved one but having to deal with it alone and not being able to share that death with family and friends must be so much harder. I have had many friends who lost loved ones at this time (not only through covid but for other reasons) and they too were subject to the restrictions, I could only send condolence’s through text, phone or card, and lets face it here in Ireland especially we are renowned for our ‘Irish Funeral’ which some countries find hard to understand, a celebration of their life lived, but being honest it does provide some comfort in those times to be able to chat and reminisce of the good times spent with our loved one who has left us. So again, we say to all of you grieving currently ‘we are thinking of you’. School children have had to learn how to work online again this has been difficult and even more difficult for parents juggling working form home and doing all other chores along with this new responsibility of home-schooling. Personally, I feel the emotional side for our children especially the teenagers who are so used to communicating with their peers each day is a huge change to their lives so be patient with them. its new for them so take the time out to talk and listen to them.

Personally, for me it has been a huge curveball. I would at this point be full of excitement about our upcoming Women in Business Awards, looking forward to the night itself as most of the prep work would be completed by now, the judges would be meeting this week to make their final decisions, The Rose Hotel would be shining the gin glasses and Mark and the team would be floating to ensure stocks were in place, and every hairdresser and beautician across the county would be looking to see how they could add a few hours to the day on June 5th to accommodate the appointments for upstyles, curly blow-dries, lashes and lipsticks, it has always been a great event to the economy of the county, but alas this year it has fallen like many more great events, The Rose of Tralee, Puck Fair, Listowel Writers week to name a few, I know there are some fantastic festivals all over the county each year too many to mention but we do recognise you all and we know you will like us be back bigger and better when we get through this. Our Connect Hospitality Awards wont take place either this year, the numbers attending and the controls of social distance won’t allow us so instead we will stand with our friends in the industry and encourage you all to support them in this their time of need. Buy that cup of coffee from the coffee shop, go to lunch or dinner in the restaurant and take that holiday in one of our local beautiful towns around the county, we are spoilt for choice and as they begin to lift the shutters and resume, be there for them and build our economy again.

Where do we go from here, I hear you ask? Well my advice is that we look forward. We look at ways of reinventing our business and our lives, I know for my own business its not an easy one, I rely totally on my advertisers to ensure I have a business. I made the choice to go back to a print issue this month, it certainly wasn’t an easy one and one I know will cost me to ensure I get back on the shelves but its going to cost all businesses in one way or another so I am not writing this looking for sympathy, I guess I am asking you all to consider us in Connect when you are planning your advertising going forward, we are always there to support the business community of Kerry in anyway we can so now we are asking for a little bit of support back, we thank those who support us regularly and we really appreciate it and we would invite those who may never have tried us to give us a go.. if we all do something for each other we will get through this.

2020 will be remembered as a very different year in our life but it will also be remembered as the time we got to spend with each other, life became very simple and for many weeks food on our table and simple things were all we needed, I think it might have made us revalue things too and in the midst of all this I do hope it brought out some of the goodness in all of us. For me I got to spend some valuable time with my son, and we did have lots of fun through it all and made memories that would not often happen due to us all being too busy.

So, while we look forward, we think back, I will leave you with this thought In your rush to get back to normal life, why not use time to consider what parts of your NORMAL LIFE you want back.

Enjoy your favourite read and thank you again for your unending support of Connect.

Until next month Stay safe and mind each other Mags xx

Editor: Margaret Kissane Print: Kingdom Printers For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Connect Kerry | March 2020 | 3 Website: www.connectpublications.ie

DAITHÍ Ó SÉ

TALKS CAREER,FAMILY AND HIS BELOVED KERRY you start talking and that’s the way you want it.”

This August Daithí would have been due to take to the stage as host of the Rose of Tralee Festival for the 11th time. Alas, the festival was one of dozens to fall foul of the Covid19 pandemic – much to the devastation of all involved, not least its famous host.

By Marisa Reidy ANYONE who has the pleasure of knowing Daithí Ó Sé knows one thing is for certain - he doesn’t take himself too seriously. But that being said, the RTE presenter and Rose of Tralee host is the ultimate professional, even if a career in media was the last thing he planned!

Daithí studied Irish and History in Limerick’s Mary Immaculate College, with a view to becoming a teacher, and laughs when he reveals that after 20 years on our TV screens, he has no qualifications to be on television and is still ‘bluffing’ his way along.

“I finished Mary I in 1999 and I had missed out on the HDip [although was offered it the following year in Dublin and Belfast] so I said I’d go sub teaching for the year. At the time I was asked if I’d be interested in working in TG4 at the weekends doing the weather. So I said I’d go up and see what the craic was,” he

tells Connect. “Then I was there and I was like ‘so you want me to go on television’ so I said I’d chance it because when you’re starting out teaching the pay isn’t great so you have to subsidise it. So that’s how it stated –it was more about making a few bob than anything else.”

The following year Daithí was offered a full time job with TG4 and the rest, as they say, is history.

“There was never any plan to be on TV. Like, I still don’t know how I’ve landed in this position. I just don’t have an answer for why I’m still on TV for over 20 years and have presented the Rose of Tralee 10 times. I’d be lying if I told you I had any great scheme or anything like that – I wish I was that calculated. You might as well have asked me if I was going to go to the moon. But we’re all here in this moment and I’m still bluffing my way along.”

After a number of years in TG4, Daithí moved to RTE full time in 2010 with the Daily Show, the Rose of Tralee and now the Today Show – and he’s loving life.

“I love live TV. There are no courses anywhere in the world that will prepare you for it – the only way of getting good at live TV is doing it. Then you just become comfortable,” he said.

“Sure there are days when I don’t know whether we’re on or off – you sit in and

4 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

“To be honest, I was half expecting it because of the sheer scale and size of the event, but I was so disappointed of course,” Daithí explained, “Not just for myself but for the people of Tralee. This is Tralee’s time to shine. People think the festival is about two nights on TV, but it is so much more than that – the weeks, months of planning, the volunteers, the committee - they have been doing this for generations, so it’s devastating for them all.”

Never in his wildest dreams did Daithí envisage being at the helm of the international festival for over a decade, and recalled an hilarious story of being alone in the US when he got a call to say he got the job.

“Ray Darcy hung up his tux and Eddie Doyle from RTE asked me if I’d be interested in presenting it and I said I would yeah, so I met him. I’d been a judge for two years before and I’d been with the Kerry Rose since 2004 and a judge in the regional panels, so I had a good background and knowledge of the whole thing,” Daithí explained. “I was out in America at the time and I was in Portland Maine and my phone rang at 4am. I saw Eddie’s name and I said ‘this is it –it’s a yay or nay - so I answered it and he said the gig is yours. So I was jumping around a Best Western Hotel room on my own at four in the morning after being handed the Rose of Tralee gig.”

Daithí makes it is very clear that as much as he loves being front and centre of the live TV selection nights, he knows it is not about him.

“Walking out on the stage every year is

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“Not at all, you can’t let it bother you because people will say what they want, online or whatever. If you respond you’re feeding them. So I just ignore them,” he said. “I’ve had everything said to me, said about me online and even posted directly to me, but not at all do I let it bother me. If you put online into reality, it’s bullying, so what do you do with a bully in real life? You ignore them - you exclude them, you cut them out.

I don’t say that flippantly because if I was younger, starting out in the Rose of Tralee, I’d probably feel a lot different, but it’s not about what others say - it‘s what’s important to you and your life that counts.”

always great craic. It’s just brilliant and just where I want to be. It doesn’t get any better than that for me. My main thing is that there are 32 Roses on stage and if they enjoy themselves and they feel safe with me and have good fun, my job is done,” he says. “The key to being the host of the Rose of Tralee is knowing that I’m the least important person in the room and once you get that you get the whole thing. It’s about every Rose and their families and, honestly, winning doesn’t even come into it.

“I’ve 10 years done and the one calculated move I did make is that I decided that if I make it so much my own that it would be very hard to get rid of me,” he laughs.

“As in, you just set a standard, be it good, bad or crazy. I’d be the first to admit that I do bring an unbelievable amount of unprofessionalism to the gig as well, but don’t ever underestimate that.”

So what about the critics of the festival, of which there are plenty?

“There’s nothing to say to the critics because they’ll never watch it – and I don’t care, I really don’t. I just think, you have never been in there so you don’t know. It’s like someone explaining what being in love is if they’ve never kissed someone. So, sorry - everyone is entitled to their opinion - but these women have been through it, they’ve told me it’s empowering to them and they are the ones who matter.”

Daithí says that the same rules apply to the personal criticism and even abuse he receives online. It doesn’t bother him in the slightest.

6 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

Of course The Rose of Tralee was where Daithí met his beautiful wife Rita Talty, who represented New Jersey in the 2008 festival when Daithí was a judge. What began as an online friendship developed into a full blown long distance romance, with the pair tying the knot in 2012. And in a roundabout way, US movie icon Burt Reynolds played an indirect part in helping their romance along....well sort of!

“We were friends before anything else, which was strange. Rita was in the Rose of Tralee in 2008, so she definitely stood out to me then. Then you become friends with everyone on Facebook – that was the thing back then,” he recalls. “I don’t know who messaged who first but it was a kind of a ‘Hi, how’re you doing?’ and there was a message back. Then there was a message maybe the following month, then it was twice a month, then every week and then it was every day and this was going on for about a year.

She was in America at the time.”

He explained that it was while filming in the US for TG4 in 2010 that their relationship became serious.

“I was in America in 2010 doing a show on the east coast and we stopped in New York and we met up and that’s how it all really started,” he explained. “We (TV crew) ended up in Florida drinking tea in Burt Reynold’s kitchen if you don’t mind, and because we got him we didn’t have to do 3 extra days shooing so I went back to New York for six days.

“I went back again after 3 weeks and was going back and over every few weeks for a few months until Rita moved over here and that’s it. We are based in south county Galway now and we love it.”

The couple are parents to six-year-old Mícheál and Daithí insists that being a dad is his best ever achievement. Father’s Day has a new found significance for the famous TV presenter.

“Nothing in the world will ever compare to it. Nothing I’ve ever done brings me more joy than seeing him happy. He has that innocent skip of a six year old, when he’s skipping away going into school – there’s no money in the world that would pay for it,” Daithí says. “He bounces into school and bounces home – he’s just a happy-go-lucky fella. He’ll come in the morning and jump on top of us, it’s just brilliant. Nothing can beat bringing Mícheál to an under 6 hurling training. The TV stuff pays the mortgage, but this is the real stuff.”

Although still working fulltime with RTE through the pandemic, being in lockdown has also meant more quality time with Mícheál at weekends – an experience Daithí is relishing: “Rita does the homeschooling, although I do the Irish, but we have so much time to do the simple things now, which is wonderful,” he said. “Mícheál has learned to ride his bike, we’re out in the garden all the time, and we go off down to the river on adventures together, so we’re using this time really well and I’m loving it.”

Commuting from Galway to RTE’s Cork studios four days a week means that Daithi doesn’t get home to Feothanach that often, but just speaking about his beautiful west Kerry home place brings back some wonderful memories.

“I don’t get home as much as I’d like, but before this (Covid 19) my mother would

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me - and we used to cycle back and cycle home. There was a gang, seven or eight of us - Dara Ó Cinnéide, who went on to captain Kerry, was one of them. We used to be gathered up on the ditch just before it got dark to give us enough time to cycle home. I remember getting 20 pence off my mother so I could buy a bag of Taytos in the shop coming home because we’d always stop there. It was the simplest of times but when you look back, all we did was laugh and skit all the way home.”

come up every month, so that takes the pressure off going home. But feck it I miss it – I miss the lads and meeting them for a few pints and going around Dingle in the evenings or being a back around Slea Head looking out at the Blaskets - it’s great for the soul,” he says.

“We had a great up up-bringing. There was a great freedom back then. We used to go to céilí dances during the summer and people used to come around learning Irish for the weekends,” he recalls fondly. “There was a great freedom and a great innocence back then. We used to go off to a céilí at 12 of 13 and get home at 12 o’clock at night and we’d walk back and walk home in the pitch dark. We used to training back in Gallarus - that’s a five mile drive from

8 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

And speaking of home, earlier this year, Daithí announced that he would be bringing his new stage show ‘Dáithí’s Rhyme with Reason’ to venues in Tralee, Listowel and Dingle this summer.

However, like so many events they too fell victim to the Corona Virus threat and will have to be rescheduled.

Explaining the concept, which he has been working on for years, Daithí tells us that two teams of well-known personalities will battle it out to create the most hilarious Limericks that best describe the crazy news that he and other special guests have just introduced.

In other parts of the show, audiences will meet a surprise celebrity guest, there will be lots of audience participation too, and the shows would finish up with a live performance with some up-and-coming

Kerry talent.

“We’re gutted that we had to postpone the shows, because we had put so much work into them, but look people’s health is the most important thing and sure all is not lost - we’ll just do them at a later date.”

In the meantime, it’s a time to reflect on the simple things and enjoy more quality time with family, with Daithí admitting that he has even succumbed to the baking craze!

“It’s true – I actually made a chocolate biscuit cake the other day because I was sick and tired of looking at all the leftover Easter eggs. It was lovely, but I think for my next attempt I might add a few drops of brandy,” he joked.

Asked finally what he is most looking forward to when all this is over, the west Kerry man was honest to a fault....

“I know I should say meeting up with family again and all that, but the truth is that what I really can’t wait for is heading down to the pub and sitting down having a few pints with the lads,” he said.

“That’s what I’m really looking forward for.”

We hear you Daithi, we hear you!

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 9

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Deirdre Walsh Still Plenty to

TALKABOUT

in these uncertain times

By Marisa Reidy RADIO Kerry listeners will know her as the bubbly presenter who keeps audiences entertained every weekday from 1.30 -3pm, but like so many others in these uncertain times, journalist and broadcaster Deirdre Walsh has had to learn to keep her show on the road in a very different environment.

The renowned host of the station’s hugely popular Talkabout programme for over a decade, Deirdre is adapting to a new way of doing things as the Covid19 pandemic rages on indefinitely.

Like most people, Deirdre misses the personal connection with her colleagues and guests and says that this is undoubtedly what she finds the toughest to deal with, professionally. Being the ultimate ‘people person’ that she is, it’s one of the biggest challenges she faces daily.

“I’ve found it hard not having guests in studio with me for the show as we can’t bring anyone into the building at the moment, obviously. It’s more challenging to interview people over the phone for a radio show – you miss out on body language and eye contact and stuff like that. Plus a lot of my work colleagues are working remotely now and I miss them,” Deirdre explained.

“I’m very lucky to still be working and to have structure in my day.

I love what I do but it’s challenging not being able to see people.

I miss the craic with people like Dr Eamon Shanahan and Mary O’Donnell, who are regular contributors to the show but have also become good friends.”

Married to Traleetoday. ie founder Dermot Crean and mum to Olivia, who turns 10 this summer, Deidre is as family-orientated as they come – and is particularly close to her mum Collette who lives in Ballybunion.

This time of year would normally see 10 | |C June 2020 38 Connect onnect K Kerry erry | |F eb 2020

Deirdre and her family spend every spare minute in the seaside town where she grew up, so that too is proving very difficult at the moment.

“In general I think I’m coping ok, but the big one for me is missing my family and my mum in particular. I live in Tralee but this time of year we’d be in Ballybunion every weekend with the extended family. I’m really pining for BallyB at the moment,” Deirdre tells Connect.

But like so many other families in the same boat, Deirdre is learning to make the most of our ‘remote connections’ and the family has embraced it too.

“Family wise, we have our bad days but generally speaking, we’re keeping busy and trying to stay upbeat. We have a weekly Walsh family quiz on a Friday night via Zoom and it’s great craic and very competitive,” she jokes.

As for home schooling Olivia, who is in third class, Deirdre concedes that hubby Dermot is the one who deserves the credit in that regard.

“Oh you’d have to ask my husband about that – he’s the one working from home so he’s doing it,” she admits.

Asked if she would like to be at home more while he daughter is off school, Deirdre – as always – is as pragmatic as she is honest.

“Work is a great distraction, but yeah, I am a small bit envious of people who get to be at home with their kids. But I’m lucky to have a job I love, especially given the amount of people losing theirs.”

But with more time on her hands at evenings and weekend, Deirdre admits that she, like half of the population it seems, has been binging on Netflix phenomenon Tiger King!

While admitting that she loves being able to continue to present her show on Radio Kerry every day, the remoteness of so many people has been a bit of an eye opener...and something that makes her realise just how lucky she really is.

“Certain stories have made me sad during all this,” Deirdre reveals. “Just this week I had an email from a lovely woman in North Kerry about how lonely she was and how much she missed being able to hug people. A lot of us are really struggling

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 11

Connect | Lifestyle with this strange new world.”

But like so many people, being in such a restricted and vulnerable position has encouraged Deirdre to not take things for granted and look at the positives that have come from what is a truly unprecedented situation.

“The community spirit in Kerry is phenomenal and it’s really come to the fore during the pandemic. The St Vincent de Paul in Tralee is particular have been amazing, as have the Tralee Soup Kitchen, helping out those who’re often left behind by society,” Deirdre said.

A Advertising dvertising |C |Connect onnect could all benefit from hearing: “I follow the lead of my 82-year-old mother who has been a rock of sense through all this, despite the challenge of having to cocoon for so long,” Deirdre admits. “She says, take one day at a time and try not to think too much about the future. And if you find yourself thinking of breaking the rules, think about an elderly person or vulnerable person in your life and how you’d feel if they got the virus, because someone broke the rules.”

Food for thought for all of us!

“I’m completely in awe of the frontline staff. Not just the people in the medical profession but workers like supermarket staff who often get the brunt of people’s frustrations. A huge thank to you to all of them - and the Gardaí as well, who’ve been brilliant to the elderly of the community.”

Relishing the idea of getting back to some semblance of normality once restrictions begin to lift, the always straighttalking radio host had no hesitation in revealing what will be top of her to-do list after a much needed hug from her mom.

“It sounds shallow, but I’m dying to get my hair done – the roots are very neglected,” she laughed. “And a nice meal out with my husband when the restaurants re-open. The things I really have taken for granted are my hairdresser and being able to drive anywhere at any time, without having to have a good reason.”

But as this pandemic continues to disrupt our everyday lives for now, Deirdre again seeks comfort and inspiration from her mom, who never fails to offer sound advice. Advice that we

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 13

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Pregnancy :

WHAT IS OK AND WHAT’S NOT

In these uncertain times I am sure lots of expectant mothers have many questions so we catch up with Dr Mary McCaffrey of the Scotia Clinic to try and put those minds at ease.

PREGNANCY: WHAT IS OK AND WHAT’S NOT Pregnancy is normally a time of excitement and anticipation for couples. Meeting with friends and family would usually be a time to exchange stories, advice and tips. Coffee mornings, outpatient clinic waiting rooms and attending antenatal / exercise or breastfeeding classes were a great opportunity to meet other mothers and health professionals. Unfortunately, the present restrictions mean that many women do not get out and about to meet people so let’s look at common queries we come across.

What should be the pattern of baby movements? Your first baby movements can be anything from a flutter, a swish or an actual kick. For first time moms this may not be until the 20-week mark or so. Moms on their second or third pregnancies may feel movements a bit earlier. Nowadays there is no set number of movements we recommend but rather a pattern of movement. It is not true that movements slow down at the end of the pregnancy; if you are ever worried your midwife or doctor are only a phone call away for advice.

that fake tan, colouring your hair and doing manicures / pedicures are harmful.

But do use safe products. If someone is going to the operating theatre, we put a pulse oximeter on your finger or toe to measure your oxygen levels- nail polishes can interfere with this. Waxing is another area that can cause concerns. Your skin may bruise more easily. I would also recommend that women doing bikini waxes or shaving close to the time of their C Section or delivery get it done a week ahead of schedule to allow the hair follicles to heal and avoid infection.

Are vaccines safe in pregnancy?

People are always worried about vaccines. However, pregnancy is one of the situations that vaccines can be important to protect both you and you baby. Be guided by your GP and hospital doctor. In particular, the whooping cough vaccine is important to protect your baby from a very unpleasant condition.

Everything to do with Covid is making me anxious for the safety of myself and my family, what can I do?

It is impossible to turn on a TV, computer or read a paper without reading horror stories. However, there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. The restrictions have been tough on everyone. They are there to protect everyone. By minimising the numbers of visitors to clinics and hospitals we avoid having asymptomatic carriers bringing COVID to a vulnerable population.

As you follow all the guidelines on hand hygiene, social distancing and cough etiquette you can keep yourself safe.

What is safe to do for beauty, skin and hair care?

Most women love to look their best coming to hospital during their pregnancy and for their delivery.

However, as all our hair and beauty salons remain closed people will be doing their own beauty works. There is no evidence 14 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

There is no need to wear gloves out and about, hand hygiene is way more important. The jury is out on wearing masks but in my opinion it is helpful. Cloth masks must be washed and steamed each day.

hospitals and ultrasound scans. Hopefully, people can get lots of scan pictures and short video clips as momentoes.

Hopefully, the time is getting closer when tests can be done prior to C Sections to facilitate fathers seeing their babies being born.

What can we do to make your journey easier?

Both the HSE and The Scotia Clinic have on line classes to provide comprehensive antenatal and breastfeeding education.

These can be accessed on our website www.scotiaclinic.ie. We are also keeping our website and social media regularly updated with pregnancy tips.

Mums can video their scans at The Scotia Clinic or we can email some video clips afterwards.

We will have a ZOOM mother and baby group starting in June- watch our social media for details.

Our consultations are now being provided by new software called T-Pro. It won’t be suitable in all cases but it will avoid unnecessary travelling.

We are very conscious that mental health problems may become an issue for many people and we can help to find the right resources for you.

It is a strange time to be pregnant but this a storm we can weather by helping each other and minding ourselves.

Stay Safe.

Scotia Clinic

What should have been a really happy time for couples has meant certain exclusions for partners from appointments at

Scotia House, Manor West, Tralee, Co. Kerry (066) 7181100

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 15

Connect | Lifestyle

Garda Mary Gardiner “We are all in this together”

By Marisa Reidy SHE’S probably one of the most recognisable and best l o v e d members of An Garda Síochána here in Kerry, having featured in feelgood videos that appeared everywhere from the local press, to RTE News to the USA’s renowned Late Late Show with James Cordon But Blennerville’s Mary Gadiner genuinely takes her new-found fame in her stride, telling CONNECT that if she can help put a smile on even one person’s face during these extraordinary times, then she is proud and privileged to do that.

A member of the force for the past 20 years, Cork city native Mary explains that her route to Templemore wasn’t exactly straight forward.

“I did my Leaving Cert at 16 and from that went on to study marketing,” she explained. “When I completed my twoyear course I started all over again and did a diploma in health and leisure business management. The aptitude test for the Gardaí came up the year I was finishing my diploma and I decided to do that just to see how I’d get on - and here I am, 20 years later.”

“There are many neighbourhoods where people have really got to know their neighbours during this crisis and that can only be a positive.”

On the flip side, of course, there are times when Mary just wished she could do more.

“Unfortunately, I have also found that there are more people than we realise are very lonely and this makes me sad.

It makes me sad that there are so many more out there that we haven’t called to yet and they have absolutely nobody.”

Asked if she finds it difficult to ‘switch off’ from the downside of things once the uniform comes off, Mary says she wished it was that easy.

“It’s something that you have to learn over the years and some days it’s easier than others,” Mary says. “If you have dealt with a particularly hard situation it can stay with you. I know over the years, not just with the current situation, I have dealt with tragic cases and they linger with you. We are human - contrary to popular belief.”

During these extraordinary times, when so many vulnerable people are finding it particularly tough, Mary and her colleagues continue to play a huge part in helping, supporting and uplift them – be it through house visits, birthday drive-bys and of course feel good videos.

Married to fellow Garda Tom Bourke, Mary has spent all of her service in Kerry – stationed in Listowel and Ballybunion before joining the Community Policing team in Tralee in 2017.

Being a community Garda during the current Covid 19 pandemic has meant that Mary and her colleagues are doing even more than normal to help support the most vulnerable – a role which undoubtedly brings huge pride, but equally has its challenges.

“I have to say that in my role with An Garda Síochána during this pandemic people have been fantastic. I have been so impressed with people’s gratitude and people’s willingness to help,” she said.

16 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

d i f fe re n ce,” she said. “No matter how hard your day has been, to be able to turn around half an hour later and do a surprise drive through for a birthday or whatever and see the joy on someone’s face – that’s fantastic.”

When not helping the people of Kerry on the ground through her role as a community Garda, Mary has built up something of a sideline gig – starring front and centre of some amazing videos for charity!

What began as a bit of craic with her neighbours in Tonevane has now reached phenomenal heights and worldwide attention that even Mary herself has been blown away by.

“I think people are sick of seeing my face at this stage,” Mary jokes. “I never thought it would gain the reaction that it did.

We had done a Mama Mia video for the Radio Kerry day and then we decided to do the Formal Friday charity day. So we did that with a twist and came up with the Amarillo video. We wanted to do something for the frontline staff and the ‘Do It For Dan’ campaign, and cest la vie.

People seemed to really enjoy it - I know I did anyways.”

Fronting an online video campaign can be a brilliant laugh, of course, but how are Mary’s children feeling about the whole thing? Jamie (23), Aoife (15) and three and a half year old Oisín are, thankfully, all taking their mom’s new found fame in their stride, she says.

Mary says that being able to contribute in any way to lifting a person’s spirits is a huge privilege.

“That makes me extremely proud as a member of An Garda Síochána. It’s a privilege being able to put a smile on someone’s face and it makes all the

“My kids, thank God, take no notice - sure they know I’m half cracked anyways so nothing surprises them,” she laughs. “My daughter Aoife is in the videos as well so she enjoyed the craic too. Oisín is still going around the house singing ‘Sha La La La La La La La’ and it’s so funny to hear him. I suppose they probably are mortified but won’t tell me.”

14 | Connect Kerry | June 2019

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 17

Connect | Lifestyle Of course, being a working mom does have its challenges, particularly when working on the frontline – so Mary is very conscious of trying to make the most of what family time she gets. That poses an even harder challenge, however, when her husband Tom is also a member of the Gardaí.

“The biggest challenge I have found, personally, is deciding how to entertain the lads on my days off. The poor dog shuns away now when he sees the lead he’s so sick of walking. I suppose we are very lucky where we live that we can walk in the most beautiful places such at Tonevane Mountain,” Mary tells Connect.

lads. We just try and manage the same as everyone else really. It’s hard but we have to do it. I’m glad to be still working though - in fairness there are many people who can’t work due to restrictions and that’s tough. I have never not worked since I’ve been 16, so I honestly don’t know how I would have coped if I had been off these last few months. “ What Mary is looking forward to, however, when all this is over, is seeing her beloved family again – all of whom are still living in Cork.

“I’m so looking forward to seeing my mam and my brothers and sisters. I

“Myself and Tom are both members of An Garda Síochána and we work opposite shifts so one of us is always here with the

haven’t seen any of them since March as they are all in Cork.

I miss my little nephew Tommy.

He’s the same age as Oisin and I can’t wait to see him. “ Asked what advice she would give to anyone who is feeling frustrated and losing patience with the restrictions, Mary offers the same sound advice as she gives to the U12 basketball team she trains: “It’s what I always tell my under 12 girls about the word TEAM. Together Everyone Achieves More. We can do this,” Mary says.

“Of course it’s frustrating, but I have to say I think our government have done a fantastic job so far. These restrictions are there for a reason. It isn’t as strict as other European countries who weren’t allowed outside their doors - so we should count ourselves fortunate. Pardon the cliché, but we are all in this together, and together we can overcome this.”

RECOVERY HAVEN

Recovery Haven 10th Anniversary Art & Photography Competition

categories – with awards for first, second and third place.

While most of Recovery Haven Kerry’s 10th anniversary plans have unfortunately been put on hold for the time being, one initiative that hasn’t been affected is the cancer support charity’s inaugural ‘Haven’ Art and Photography competition.

On board to judge the completion are award-winning photographers Valerie O’Sullivan and Domnick Walsh in the photography category, along with renowned artists Pauline Bewick and daughter Poppy Melia, who will choose the winning art work.

Focussing on the fact that Recovery Haven Kerry has been a place of support, hope and practical advice through their services for a decade, the competition aims to have people demonstrate the hope and support they find in their own, personal ‘haven’ through photography and art.

The winners and second and third placed entries in all categories will be acknowledged at a prize-giving ceremony as soon as it is safe, and their photos and prints will be used for promotional purposes by Recovery Haven Kerry, including our 2020 Christmas cards..

Based on this idea of a ‘haven,’ adults and children alike are being asked to capture creative images or draw or paint a picture that highlights their haven or place of solace – that place where they find hope on their journey. This can be their home, friends, family or their favourite go-to place, activities or interactions – but the charity is stressing how vital it is that this done in line with new, strict Covid-19 guidelines.

All entries - photographs and drawings – must be initially submitted via email, (along with the relevant entry form) to: marisa@ recoveryhavenkerry.com. The entry form, as well as full competition details and Ts&Cs can be found at www.recoveryhavenkerry.com.

The competition is an acknowledgement of the 10 years of support Recovery Haven Kerry has provided to cancer patients and their families since its foundation in 2010 - now with locations in Tralee, Killarney and Killorglin.

The competition, which is aimed at amateur artists and photographers only, will run from now until the end of July 2020.

Prizes will be awarded in three age groups: Primary school children, Secondary school children and Adults, in both Art and Photography 18 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

The deadline for entries is Friday, July 31st after which the chosen winners and runners up will be asked to provide hard copies of their entries for the exhibition.

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 19

Booking Your Appointment We know that looking for your wedding dress is one of the most important moments and decisions in a woman´s life and it is just natural that you are nervous and excited. Our dedicated team will be there for you to make this an unforgettable day for you and your bridal party and assist you with all our experience and passion to find the wedding dress you´ve dreamed of.

In our luxurious vintage-style boutique, we´ve created a romantic and homely setting that will make you feel most welcome and comfortable. The open design and our spacious fitting room will give you a lot of space to walk around freely in your gown and give you the “here-comes-the-bride” feeling.

Welcome to The White Ivy Bridal Boutique!

Situated in the heart of Kenmare, we´re proud to be Kerry´s latest bridal boutique, bringing even more stunning wedding dresses to the lovely Munster brides… and gladly beyond!

Our vintage- inspired boutique will wrap you in a warm and romantic atmosphere that will relax you and put you in the right mood to find your dream dress for your happily ever after.

Thanks to a beautiful room layout, our store is flooded with light to let our gowns and you sparkle while our spacious fitting and show area will give you room to unfold and get comfortable with your dress.

We carry a wide range of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, accessories and shoes designed by leading bridal wear brands.

We invite you to have a look at all our dresses and let us know if you think you might have found “The One”.

We know that every bride is different and special in her own way. Our dedicated team will make you feel most welcome and assist you with all their passion and experience to find your perfect dress. You deserve an unforgettable experience, as this will sure be a once-in-a-lifetime moment, emotional, exciting and full of joy, surrounded by your loved ones.

We can´t wait to share it with you and your bridal party and make the magic happen.

Our exclusive appointment policy will give you all the privacy, undivided attention and calm you need to pick “the one” and enjoy this moment with your loved ones. Our boutique is exclusive to you and your party to browse through our beautiful selection of stunning dresses and accessories.

We also offer appointments for bridesmaid shopping call our team for full details.

Looking forward to seeing you soon Love, The White Ivy- Team

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Connect Kerry | Feb 2020 | 21

Connect | Lifestyle

HOMEOPATHY AND FERTILITY DURING LOCKDOWN With the cancellation of fertility clinics during lockdown many couples are feeling the strain.

Time is of the essence. Every month that goes by is a chance missed. Many women feel that a few months from now may be too late for them to conceive or have IVF treatment and unfortunately you can’t put your biological clock on hold.

Homeopathy offers an excellent option to couples who wish to boost their fertility naturally. It can be used as a stand-alone medicine or as a support physically and emotionally for those undergoing IVF and other fertility treatments. It is also drug free and easy to take.

Homeopathy takes a holistic personalised approach, taking into account any underlying health issues, emotional support, history of miscarriage etc, grief, stress in conceiving, pressures of work or within a relationship as well as looking at the woman’s menstrual pattern, polycystic ovarian syndrome, hormonal imbalance and for male infertility we also look at sperm count and motility, genetic or autoimmune dysfunction. And for both male and female we look at their lifestyle, stress at work as well as their energy in general and diet and exercise.

I also offer Fertility Meditation CD that I recorded and have for sale.

And as the main reason for lockdown is to restrict the spread of Covid 19 so it is also very important to address that alongside any fertility treatment. I have some excellent Homeopathy medication to help boost immunity to prevent the virus and this can be taken along with your Homeopathy Fertility Prescription.

As my clinics are closed during lockdown I am taking consultations over the phone and can put medication in the post. So please contact me: www.redlotusclinic.com, eithnegriffin@gmail.com or phone 0866066865.

22 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

THE SECRET TO A HEALTHY GUT A local Castleisland girl, MaryThea Brosnan, returned to her homestead to start a new business producing Kefir- a natural, fermented, probiotic, yoghurt-like beverage that packs a powerful punch.

“My journey with kefir started in the summer of 2017 after years of struggling with the symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). A nutritionist in Dublin was advocating milk kefir so I ordered the kefir grains and began cultivating my own. I have taken kefir almost every day since and my IBS has never been better!

I have noticed other improvements too such as a stronger immune system, better mood, brighter skin and more energy. In October 2018 I moved home to promote this gut-healing superfood and so Kerry Kefir was born.”

Kerry Kefir is packed full of good bacteria and yeast, which are essential for optimal gut health. It incorporates all the time tested benefits of traditional kefir, which has existed for over 2000 years.

Kerry Kefir is available in the following supermarkets: Garvey’s SuperValu Tralee Garvey’s SuperValu Listowel Garvey’s SuperValu Castleisland Kerry Kefir is also available in The Little Cheese Shop, Tralee.

Mary won the ONE TO WATCH category in last years Connect Women in Business Awards and she certainly is living up to her title.

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Beauty Tips By Romy Romy Birdthistle, makeup hoarder, beauty enthusiast and owner of Paradise Beauty Tralee.

With over 15 years in the beauty industry. I'm here to share my best tips and tricks when it comes to beauty makeup and skincare.

Some at home facial tips and Tricks I have been talking this time in isolation to give my skin a refresh and a boost, I have so much more time at the moment that it felt a shame not to focus on something that will benefit me once all of this craziness has passed, i have picked up a few intersting tips over the last couple of weeks and have found them great so I want to pass them along

Tip 1: Its an oldy but probably one of the most important things you can do and that's to drink enough water, We're all guilty of skipping the water when we're busy and reaching for teas, coffees or fizzy drinks but at the moment there's no excuse for skipping the water. Aim for 8 glasses a day for optimal hydration

Tip 2: I came across this next tip in on online article by one of the top facial specialists in New York. Within 60 seconds of stepping 0ut of the shower get a product on your face that is going to moisturise your skin.

I have been using the Yon KA invigorating mist - Dry Skin Toner and I have found a huge difference in my skin from making this one change . You can purchase this toner in CH Chemist in Tralee, if not available on their website then you can call our send a message to them on social media to order, it's a great service and means you're supporting a local business too.

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Tip 3 I'm a big fan of products with Hyaluronic Acid as i think it's the ultimate ingerdient for hydration but what I didn't know is that to maximise your results that you should be applying it to wet skin. This is because it the molecules in Hyaluronic Acid actually draw water to it so if your skin is wet then applying any products with this ingredient are going to give your hydration levels a massive boost I have been using The Ordinary Hyaluronic 2% plus B5. Again this is a product that I have found has really been helping my skin stay hydrated. You can buy this on beautybay.com

Tip 4 I have touched on this before so I'm sure people are sick of hearing about it but I cannot stress how important the next product is and that's sun screen! I speak from experience as I have a lot of pigmentation from years of not heading this advice. I use SPF that is specifically deisgned for the face (l love the La RochePosay Anthelios Pocket Sun Cream SPF50+) but I also use products when I'm wearing makeup that contain SPF such as the IT Cosmetics CC Cream (contains SPF 50) or the Sculpted by Aimee Connolly beauty base (contains SPF30. I actually love this base on it's own too, again it has one of my faveourite ingredients, Hyaluronic Acid so it moisturises, protect and perfects

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Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 25

Connect | Lifestyle

TAKING CARE OF YOUR NAILS

Hello everyone I hope you are all well, Unfortunately COVID19 has forced us all to take a long break from our normal lives including getting your nails done.

Here are some tips and advice from “Nails by Daniela” on how to remove your gel nails at home safely.

All you need is a clippers, a file and cuticle oil.

Step 1:

If your nails are long use the clippers to shorten them by cutting a few mm away from the tips of your fingers, because it is a hard gel you want to prevent the nails cracking to close to your natural nail.

Step 2: File down the gel ! It is important to LEAVE a very thin layer of gel on the nail so you don’t touch your natural nail bed and you won’t damage it.

Step 3: Apply clear gel polish or strengthener. Allow a few minutes to

fully dry and apply cuticle oil to keep the skin around the nails hydrated.

I hope this helps and I am so looking forward to being back to work taking care of your nails with Emma at Brush n Blush in the near future. Until then keep safe.

All my love. Daniela, Nails by Daniela x Brush n Blush Market Gate House, Milk Market Lane, Tralee

26 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

| Lifestyle Connect C | onnect Lifestyle

Hi to all our lovely readers, It is a new month and a new way of living our lives. We are reopening on the 8th fingers , toes and everything crossed, and if I said there wasn't a little bit of worry in my mind I would be telling a little white lie, but I am sure I won't be the only one but our motto always has been onwards and upwards.

As a lot of functions have been postponed it is up to each and everyone of us to find new ways to celebrate in smaller groups and for instance have an evening that a group of friends zoom call and have a competition for best use of a scarf, nicest brooch or nicest statement piece of jewellery, This of course is where That's Perfect is the solution to winning the prize. I have always made myself available for any of my customers no matter how big or small the query is and now more than ever I am at the end of the phone or on our Facebook page or Twitter .

At the moment we are putting the finishing touches to our restyled shop to make sure it is a safe place for all of you to shop but rest assured, I may not be able to give any one of ye my familiar hugs but I can promise ye all ye will get the very best of smiles, laughter and of course stock, Keep safe lovely readers and to any one who has had someone go to heaven during this sad time a candle has been lit for ye all.

Be kind and remember we can beat this but we need each other Keep smiling Carmel xxx

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Dealing with Hayfever

We are all trying to adjust to our new Covid lifestyles and the changes it has brought to our daily lives. While we do our best to get our heads around Covid, for some people some everyday health challenges still need to be dealt with. HAYFEVER is something a lot of people are trying to deal with at the moment.

While we all welcome the longer brighter evenings and it may encourage us to enjoy a little time outdoors in the fresh air, unfortunately, it can cause misery for the 15-20% of hayfever suffers in Ireland. Also known as Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, hayfever is an allergic reaction to airborne substances, such as tree, flower and grass pollen that gets into the upper respiratory passages, nose, sinus, throat and also the eyes.

The pollen that enters the bloodstream through the tissue of the throat, lungs and gut, is regarded by our immune systems as foreign and potentially dangerous, so it rushes to defend it, resulting in the release of lots of histamines. Histamine irritates the respiratory passage causing swelling and inflammation that produce typical hayfever symptoms, including itchy watery eyes, a bunged up or runny nose, frequent sneezing and coughing.

Many people take anti-histamines and other medications which offer relief, alternatively there are plenty of natural remedies available, which can help to ease the unpleasant symptoms of hayfever.

SALT PIPE – can bring wonderful relief for hayfever suffers. It contains micron-sized particles of salt sources from the Praid mines in Romania. When these tiny salt particles are inhaled they penetrate the respiratory system to achieve beneficial effects. Safe for both adults and children, is best used for 15-25minutes daily POLLINOSAN – The anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine action of this complex usually kicks in within 20-30 minutes to ease the uncomfortable hayfever symptoms QUERCITIN – shown to possess anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, and is an ideal supplement to combat allergies such as Hayfever.

PLANTAGO - Ideal for symptoms of catarrh and congestion which may helps clear build up of excess mucous.

EUPHRASIA – homeopathic remedy for watery, streaming eyes.

HAY-BAND – Using ancient Chinese principles of acupressure the hay-band has been used for centuries to help with the symptoms of allergies including hayfever. It is drug free, fast acting and reusable. Suitable for adults and children over 3years.

Vitamin C also helps as a natural antihistamine, so ensure you are taking 1000mg twice a day to help alleviate hayfever symptoms.

Some of my personal favourites include... MACANTA, ZOOKI OR ALTRIENT Until Next Time, Stay Healthy, Deirdre X

HORANS Healthstores

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Pearly Whites: Dr Marcas Mac Domhnaill Fáilte Romhaibh thar nais!

Covid-19 has brought a huge change to the way that we work and live. Dentistry is not immune to these changes. As a society we will all have to act differently from now on.

Dental patients will now be asked a series of questions regarding their health status when booking an appointment. Many practices will now take a temperature reading and ask you to rinse out with mouthwash on your arrival and a medical update will be done.

Don’t be alarmed by the new uniform that the dental practice staff must wear e.g. gowns, goggles, masks. They are wearing it for your protection.

Please remember to do a few things before your dental appointment. Leave head and neck jewellery at home, along with handbags etc. Brush your teeth, use the toilet before you leave home and bring a pen with you in case you need to sign forms. Use the hand sanitiser provided on entering and exiting the practice.

Only come at your appointed time, to minimise the numbers of patients waiting. Obviously, update your dental practice if your health changes between the time of booking your appointment and the day of your appointment.

Dentistry is back. Contact your dentist for further advice.

Beir Bua An Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill BDS (NUI), Dip. Cons Sed (DUBL) An Dr. Róisín Boyle BDS (QUB) An Dr. Aoife Ní Chonchubhair BDS (NUI) 49, Sráid na Carraige Uachtarach, Trá Lí, Co. Chiarraí 49 Upper Rock Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry (066) 712 1457 . www.macdomhnailldental.ie .fiacloir@gmail.com Connect Kerry | June 2020 | 27 Connect Kerry | July 2019 | 27

THE HOUSEBOUND BOOKHOUND

Connect | Lifestyle

Hello Everyone I’ve been an avid reader since my mam read my First Ladybird book to me in the Olsen days. I was hooked and she was tormented until I could happily read by myself. Along came the delights of Enid Blython and the rest is history. I was never without my head in a book and was regularly shooed out of my perch on a summer’s day to get a bit of fresh air. I’d then be found reading late into the night to make up for the missed hours of delicious escapism. To this day I take great comfort from the written word and am rarely without a lèabhair in my làmh. I never throw out or give away books.... if my house caught fire it’d be The End!! I’ve read a lot during lockdown ( much more than I’d normally have time for). If you are looking for a good read here are a few reviews of favorites I’ve recently enjoyed.

DIANE CHAMBERLAIN is a firm favorite of mine. Many of her books are set in North Carolina and this sense of continuity and familiarity draws me back to her time after time. It’s almost akin to meeting up with a dear friend.

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- Brass Ring Full of raw emotion and endless twists, thus book whilst at times was extremely upsetting also had me reading it in one day. It highlights the damage that can be done to people, especially children and the long term consequences. Featuring two estranged sisters with very different memories of their childhood it explores suppressed memories and psychological damage and really is compelling from start to finish

- Keeper of The Light Classic Diane Chamberlain. Jam packed with deceit, secrets and heartache this is a tangled web of giant proportions. The story of a betrayed wife, a grief stricken adulterous husband and a dead mistress. Read it to see the depths the scorned wife will go to in her attempt to understand who this perfect woman was.

LIZ NUGENT is new to me.... and I LOVE her!!!

She is a psychological crime writer supreme and each of her four books are page turning, one-sitting beauties. Here are two....

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- Unravelling Oliver The opening line “I expected more of a reaction the first time I hit her” gripped me from the start and made it difficult to put it down for a second. It follows the story of a deeply disturbed man who to the outside world appears successful and content in both his career and his long standing marriage.

All of this changes one night when Oliver Ryan beats his wife so viciously that she ends up comatose. What could have happened to have caused such rage???Read it and discover!!

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- Skin Deep This novel by Liz Nugent is a dark, twisted and wholly shocking story of what takes Cordelia from an isolated island childhood in Ireland to debauchery, violence and murder in Nice. It is undeniably her darkest book to date and the sociopathic character that is Cordelia is impossible to warm to throughout. I ADORED this book soooo much.

My lovely Uncle Tom was also a hugely enthusiastic reader. His books of choice were generally far more highbrow than mine, but we shared many books over the years. Tom greatly enjoyed the award winning Run with the Wind series by TOM MCCAUGHREN and would pass them on to me.

- Run with the wind - Run to the Ark This is a fun book about a group of foxes trying to overcome Set in Ireland a group of foxes, a pair of badgers and an their natural instincts to fight each other, and instead work otter go on a journey to the “edge of the world “ in search of together to overcome much more powerful enemies whilst a safe place to live after Man starts killing vast numbers of seeking out new lands for the secret of survival. The characters their kind to protect his livelihood. Tom McCaughrens magical are very endearing especially Old Sage Brush and the writing is way of describing these animal characters is nothing short of playful and touching all at once. The saying ‘As cunning as a fox bewitching. ‘ becomes clear in this great read.

- Run to Earth So there you are!! I hope a few of these piqued your interest and This sequel to Run with the wind shows the foxes banding appealed to you. I for one cannot wait for the local bookshops together to stop the construction of a dam which would flood to reopen as I’ve really missed them more than any other shop. their homeland, the Irish valley of Glensinna.

- Run Swift Run Free Fanacht Sábhailte gach It’s summer in the land of Sinna and Black Tip and Vickeys duine Cubs are growing up. They need to learn the ways of the wild Tonya xx and how to outsmart the hunters and the trapper. With the help of Old Sage Brush will these babies be able to fend for themselves?

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HIVES IN CHILDREN

Dr Fergus Leahy FRCPCH(Lond), FRCP (Can), FCCP (USA), FRCP (Irl) D.C.H. (Lond), M.Sc (Paeds) Consultant Paediatrician, available appointment at the Scotia Clinic

Hives are red raised swellings, associated with either itching or burning sensation. In most cases these are transient and only last 20 – 30 minutes. Sometimes they may last 24 hours.

In acute hives which are called Urticaria, which occur on a daily basis and may persist for up to six weeks. Often one may find a food allergy or an inhaled trigger.

Chronic hives or Urticaria, hives can last longer than six weeks and can occur daily or intermittently.

effecting learning.

Chronic Urticaria can may lead to poor quality of life and school absence and concentration

There are two types of Chronic Urticaria, one is inducible – can be brought on by:

· Very hot or cold air · Cold wind · Strong sunshine · Hot bathes or showers · Minor Injury · Exercise · Emotional Stress · Tight clothing · Vibrating tools The second is spontaneous Urticaria that is non-inducible. Often allergic conditions are associated with this, such as hay fever and asthma. Triggers are:

· Stress · Brufen · Infections The majority of children with chronic spontaneous Urticaria have no identifiable cause.

Hives must be differentiated from insect bites, fleas and scabies. All these must be considered in Chronic Urticaria. You may see burrows in scabies in between fingers and toes, may see evidence of flea bites in the centre of the hives.

Treatment Symptom diaries may be useful in the trying to determine the cause or the trigger.

If a trigger is found then avoidance advise is the best, for example, not to enter cold water and those with cold induced Urticaria.

This can be serious as it can cause an anaphylactic like reaction so one shouldn’t enter cold water on ones own. Drug treatment is the main and it involves antihistamine such as Piriton and if not responding increase the dose and later may have to add a different antihistamine and later still Singular. In very resistant cases there is a new treatment called Anti IGE which is very expensive.

30 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

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Fathers Day

June 21st is normally recognised as mid summers day or the longest day of the year but this year it’s also Father’s day so its extra special, we all love our dads so dearly, those of you who are lucky enough to still have him with you give him an extra hug today, we all take things for granted in life but our parents are so precious so appreciate them while they are with us. This year is a different father’s day as there won’t be the usual scramble to the local eatery to get a nice meal together, shopping for nice gifts is that extra tough this year so with that in mind we asked a few well known local Kerry people to share their thoughts on their dads with us..

My father Sean was born on the 13th of June in 1949, the first born of the late Billy and Madge Hurley. Last year we had a great celebration for his 70th birthday where we surprised him with a ‘This Is Your Life’ tribute. It was amazing as a family to recognise what he has done and achieved so far. Some notable memories from the night included his affection for our mom Breeda, evidently by the fact they had eight children and are still happily together! He entertained so many people as a musician from the old days of playing with the Hamilton Folk Group to his solo gigs around Tralee and Kerry. I estimated that throughout his four plus decades of music he entertained around half a million people albeit a lot of repeat punters. Other highlights were his early football playing days with John Mitchels and his unfaltering work ethic that has been instrumental in the success of the family business. As children, many of us look up to our fathers and I am happy to say, even as an adult, I still do and always will. Love you dad and Happy Father’s Day. from Brian Hurley

Current Kerry Rose Sally Anne Leahy tells us about her amazing dad- For me, father’s day is a special one. It allows me to reflect and appreciate my wonderful dad, Timmy. He is my best friend. He has taught me so much in life and I would not be where I am today only for him. He has been such a wonderful support to me all through my life, especially when my mother Mary passed away, as he had to take on the role of two parents. He is so positive, a rock ofsense and no matter what problem I go to him with, he always has a solution.

In the words of George Herbert, “One father is more than a hundred schoolmasters” and that is certainly true for my dad. Appreciate your loved ones and all that they do for you. Thinking of those especially who may not have a father with them today.

Don O Neill Ballyheigue Born Designer to the stars checked in with us to say some lovely words about his dad for fathers day- Dear Dad, wishing you a very happy Fathers Days .. we were supposed to be home In Ireland to celebrate you on June 21st, but alas not meant to be this year . You are our inspiration , a guiding light our entire lives, loving and teaching us by example with your strong unshakable faith , with your hard work ethic, and many many sleepless nights spent to make sure you could always provide for your family, always endeavoring to make life better for us. With Mom at your side, building a love filled home and providing everything we ever needed. You Love us unconditionally, You succeeded as an extraordinary, exceptional father and we love you with all our hearts.

Huge big love and light filled hugs Don and your Son-in-law , Pascal

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Advertising |Connect Sean Hurley – better known to most in Kerry and beyond as the voice of the Kingdom – has worked in radio since the early 70’s and was extremely happy when Radio Kerry launched in 1990. This is where he is happiest, out and about – the art of conversation and taking time to get to know people. Taking someone’s words and editing a program to air on his weekly Sunday evening show - compiling music to match the shows topic to produce an evening of memories for his listeners. When walking through town with him he practically lights up when he is stopped, and they mention ‘’ The show was good Sunday I listen every week Sean ‘’. I think what we all brought from our Dad is his work ethic and giving 100% to achieving what we want and if we do not it was not from lack of trying or pushing ourselves. Love from all the family

My Dad Michael o Donnell instilled in me my love of Tralee, and the importance of community. Growing up Dad always made sure we were kind to people and that we always did what we could to help others. He thought me the importance of saying Thank You. As siblings we were fortunate to have a dad that supported us and encouraged us to succeed in whatever we decided to do and if you are going to do something put in the work and do it well. I am blessed to have a Dad like mine, although as a daughter I am sure over the years, he has wanted to bury me under the patio!!

Paul Hanrahan business man and founder of the charity Action Lesotho which helps build communities who have had devastating effects of HIV and the chronic lack of food security.

Anyone who has met Paul Hanrahan knows what an exceptional person he is. My siblings and I couldn’t have asked for a better dad; he is kind, loving, and supportive.

He looks for joy in life by telling jokes, creating games, bringing people together, and of course getting everyone singing. He always thinks of others more than himself and has had a positive impact on so many people’s lives. We are so lucky to have him as a father and a friend.

He is the perfect partner for our wonderful mother, Caroline, and an outstanding grandfather to Sam, Zoe, Ruby, and Tom Óg. Happy Fathers Day xx

So there you have it some lovely messages for some wonderful Dads of course none as special as your own dad, speaking of which I want to include some words for those of us who have had to say goodbye a bit too soon to our lovely dads, they may not be with us in body but they are always there in our hearts every day so we will sign off with the thought.

Remembering you is easy, I do it every day Missing you is the heartache that never goes away.

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How to support the music industry in lockdown.

I hope you are all keeping safe and well in these crazy times!

The music industry is feeling the pinch at the moment but with support, patience and adapting to our new reality we will make a comeback!

Can you imagine the pubs opening with no live music? Can you imagine the summer ahead with no buskers, events, concerts?

It is very hard to imagine but for now it is our reality. Most,as an audience see the performer only,possibly a band too,and that is the sign of a well run show! There are teams of people behind the event, the venue workers, the crew for the artist/band, the sound and light technicians, the promoters, the coaches, security staff and so much more that are now out of work and are bursting with knowledge and experience to share with you and are very willing to do so during these times!

lit area and internet connection! That is it! I recommend anyone to try these!

If you are not quiet ready to dive into improving a music skill or indeed learning a new one there are many other options to choose from too! Online academies are offering masterclasses on Facebook and Instagram live too, for example the cork opera house and the irish youth musical theatre academy are doing workshops with well known west end stars twice a day in vocals, music and dance throughout the summer, the royal Irish academy of music and cork school of music are hosting workshops with their tutors online all for free! My best advice for finding the ones you like are to follow the pages of schools, artists and companies you enjoy on social media and get involved. If you’re not in you can’t win!

If you are a budding artist, industry worker or just curious about the music industry please do reach out to those you admire and you may be met with an amazing wealth of knowledge that you can use yourself in the future. Now is the time to make more personal connections and grow in your chosen music industry field.

Take online lessons from the comfort of your own home! The main response I have gotten in kerry is....

What is a music lesson like online? I don’t think it’s for me!

Music lessons online are absolutely wonderful, I personally have adored seeing people sing in their comfortable surroundings of home, occasionally meeting siblings, kids, partners and pets in the midst of a lesson and of course some guest appearances on my side too!for the more shy students it has given them an opportunity to feel more in control and for the more confident it has given them an opportunity to show their home set up and get some tips and tricks to improve.

Most coaches in all areas are giving lessons now online using zoom, FaceTime or what’s app video at a reduced rate and with no long term commitment so if there is an instrument you have been trying to learn by yourself at home why not take advantage of these opportunities from the comfort of your own couch? It is an amazing outlet for any stress,anxiety or worry that we all undoubtedly have in these times. If you have kids why not do a lesson together? It can be a bonding experience and a much needed creative outlet!

What do you need for online lessons? Your smart phone/laptop and a seperate device to play any tracks etc on near you, a well 36 | Connect Kerry | June 2020

Remember that your favourite artists are at home too at the moment, most artists I personally follow and enjoy have been very active on social media giving free acoustic gigs, duetting with other artists and doing question and answer sessions to help those interested in the music industry.

Maybe the silence of the next few months will make the music industry come back stronger and even more loved and appreciated than before but one thing is for sure, like every other industry at the moment, it can’t make a comeback without the support and help needed to do so, and that’s where we all come in, help by tuning in to the talks, gigs, workshops and lessons if you can and when the music is back the craic,I am Sure, will be mighty!

Stay safe.

Lisa

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Business Survival & Growth

Covid 19 has left businesses staring into the abyss, with few answers. The key to the future is assessing where your business fits in the current social distancing environment. While some will fail, most businesses will adapt and some will even thrive in the new environment.

Business Failure

Unfortunately some businesses will not survive and it is imperative to make an active decision about your business.

Closing a business is an extremely personal and difficult decision, but continuing an unviable business is shortsighted and will only create revenue difficulties and debt accumulation. It is important to remember that the best entrepreneurs have closed businesses and reinvented themselves.

Revenue - Debt Warehousing

The Revenue has taken a huge step back in the short term, to allow businesses the space to breath. Debt Warehousing will allow deferral of VAT and PAYE incurred during the crisis, to be deferred for 12 months.

NB: It is imperative not to build up revenue debts, which cannot be paid, even if normal trading resumes.

Local Enterprise Office

Schemes are rolling out quickly and some of the key ones are as follows: • Trading Online Voucher Scheme - Grant of up to €2,500 available to SME's to develop and/or grow online presence including website, digital marketing, social media for business and search engine optimization • Flexible Low Interest Business Loans - Up to 6 months interest free and moratorium for first 6 months of loans.

• Mentoring and Online Webinars Look After Your Clients

Positivity

We are all guilty of being negative and despite always preaching the importance of looking forward, I have to admit the current crisis initially left me a bit bewildered. But let’s stop trying to change the world and take each step forward together, whether that is with or without social distancing, as long as its together we will all thrive into the future.

John Canty

Most businesses are currently experiencing some level of difficulties and patience with customers will be required, so that we can all thrive in the future. There is a long road ahead and make sure to look after those who have helped you getting this far, as they too are going through difficult times. In the

NEW BUSINESS SUPPORTS FROM KERRY COLLEGE A new Business Support Unit has been established at Kerry College’s Monavalley Campus in Tralee in partnership with Kerry County Council. The primary goal of this new unit is to support the local business community through the exit phase of the COVID-19 shutdown.

The Kerry College campus at Monavalley has been at the heart of training and business supports for decades – as Kerry’s centre of Apprenticeship training, skills training day courses and professional development evening courses.

The Business Support Unit will initially offer a suite of four online/flexible delivery programmes. There are two courses focused on infection control: “Principles of Hygiene & PPE” and “Infection Prevention & Control”. A new programme entitled “Safe Stay – for the hospitality sector” was designed to assist this sector reassure guests and staff that all necessary and relevant hygiene protocols are in place. The Safe Stay programme is formally endorsed by the Irish Hotels Federation. The final course is “Managing Compliance for COVID-19” which trains key staff in each business are compliant with all relevant legislation.

Claire Yildiz

last recession builders were the most badly hit, yet they are now key to creating economic activity, while many other businesses are closed.

Due to the impact of COCID-19 on the tourism and hospitality sector in the county, it is expected that much of the initial activity will focus in this area and the wider services sector. The new unit will be led by Simon Regan, who has a significant background in culinary and hospitality, known to many as former Executive Chef at Killarney Hotel Europe Resort.

All programmes are free of charge and will be either delivered online, on-campus at Monavalley, on-location at the business premises – or a mix of the three approaches.

If you feel Kerry College’s new Business Support Unit can assist you, contact Claire Yildiz on 066-714 96 90 or email: business@ kerrycollege.ie

Simon Regan (Business Support Lead) Claire Yildiz (Business Support Administrator)

NOW ENROLLING BORD OIDEACHAIS AGUS OILIÚNA CHIARRAÍ KERRY EDUCATION AND TRAINING BOARD

FOR AUTUMN 2020

Clash Road Campus | Denny Street Campus | Listowel Campus | Monavalley Campus

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NEW APPLICATIONS We are now taking applications for Autumn 2020 for all courses at www.kerrycollege.ie Start dates to be confirmed shortly. Apply early as places on many courses are limited.

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EXISTING STUDENTS & APPRENTICES If you have any questions regarding your course, give us a call: Clash Road Campus: 066 712 1741 | clashroad@kerrycollege.ie Denny Street Campus: 066 712 1741 | clashroad@kerrycollege.ie Listowel Campus: 068 21023 | listowel@kerrycollege.ie Monavalley Campus: 066 714 9600 | monavalley@kerrycollege.ie

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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 5 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 EUROPEAN UNION

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