JOB VACANCIES
“We called to Penneys Tralee yesterday to be presented with the proceeds from their recent Christmas jumper day. As always we are extremely grateful for their continued support.” ....(Breda Dyland Kerry Cancer Support Group )
LEGAL MATTERS CORNER
Michelle and Michael are having a baby and are wondering what leave they are entitled to?
For the person who is actually pregnant they are entitled to maternity leave.
The current entitlement is to 26 weeks’ maternity leave which would usually be paid by social welfare together with 16 weeks additional unpaid maternity leave. Employers can top up the social welfare payment of €245 per week to bring it up to normal wages during maternity leave if they so wish. In relation to maternity leave at least 2 weeks have to be taken before the end of the week of the baby’s expected birth and at least 4 weeks after.There is no requirement to be in employment for any particular period of time as maternity leave applies no matter how long you have been in employment.
The Parental Leave Act legislation updated in 2019 entitles each parent to 22 weeks of unpaid parental leave - 26 weeks from 1st September 2020. The leave must be taken before the child is 12 years of age, or 16 years of age in the case of children with disabilities or a long-term illness. This leave is non-transferable between the parents, except where both parents work for the same employer. However, the timing of this leave depends on the agreement of the employer.
The Paternity Leave and Benefit Act 2016 commenced on 1 September 2016. It provides statutory paternity leave and benefit for relevant parents.
A relevant parent is entitled to two continuous weeks’ paid leave in respect of births from September 2016. Payment will be at the rate set by the Department of Employment and Social Protection being €245, subject to a person having the appropriate PRSI contributions. This is the same as the current rate of maternity benefit. Similar to maternity leave, employers can top up paternity benefit if they want.
A relevant parent includes self-employed, same sex couples and those adopting. The definition of relevant parent is set out in the legislation and “relevant parent” is defined as the father of the child, the spouse, civil partner or cohabitant of the mother.
Parents benefit is a new scheme that came in 1st November 2019 and provides for parents to take leave from work in their child’s first year. They have no entitlement to be paid from work but can get paid by social welfare €245 per week. This is in addition to maternity leave and paternity leave and is available to both parents. The leave can be taken as two weeks together or two separate weeks.
Lawquip: “A lie can be halfway round the world before the truth has got its boots on” James Callaghan.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE
Photos by John Cleary
in pictures!
Can your
the
ABOVE: Santa rings the bell and there off for the Christmas day swim at Fenit.
ABOVE:
hear
music as these Hawaii dancers entertain the large crowd attending the Christmas Day swim at Fenit.
ABOVE: RNLI personal supporting the Lifeboat collection at Fenit during the Christmas day swim.
ABOVE: Michael (Fox) O’Connor, made it his 40th swim at Fenit on Christmas day.
ABOVE: Baby Evangeline Marie McClintock, Caragh Lake, Co Kerry, was the only baby born in University Hospital Kerry on New Year’s day at 12.43pm and weighing 8lbs Catherina and Jonathan McClintock, Caragh Lake,CoKerry.
ABOVE: Diana Meriakri and Sean Cannon, both from Tralee, enjoying Mercy Mounthawk Debs dinner dance on Friday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel.
ABOVE: Sophie O’Brien, Blennerville, and Alex Ryan, Manor, arriving for Gaelcholaiste Chairrai Debs dinner dance at Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night.
ABOVE: Debutantes Tara Murphy and on right Kayla Fitzgerald, attending their Gaelcholaiste Chairrai Debs dinner dance at Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night.
ABOVE: Pictured at CBS The Green Debs dinner dance at Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Monday night, from left Maeve Murphy, Cork, Dáire McGovern, Ballymacelligott, Molly Brosnan and Luke De Guzman, both from Tralee.
ABOVE: Mercy Mounthawk Debutantes, pictured on Friday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel, from left Kate O’Keeffe, Tralee, Blessing Ndebeeue and Sophie Neilan, Tralee.
ABOVE: The Bill Kirby Memorial walk in aid of Kerry Hospice Palliative Care Unit at University Hospital Kerry took place in Tralee on St Stephen’s day, seen passing through Rock Street on their 4 mile walk.
Happening In Tralee..
Some lovely words penned by Con Dennehy about the late Christy Murray who passed away before Christmas
“The Late and Much Loved
Christy Murray
The immortal words of the late US President, John F. Kennedy, “Ask not what your country can do for you, rather ask what you can do for your country” was the motto of a much loved and highly respected Tralee native who devoted more than 70 years of his life to the welfare, social interaction and development of athletics in Tralee Town and across Kerry. This week the County will bid a tearful farewell to Christy Murray who passed away on Friday. Involved in athletics since 1949, Christy was a talented athlete, an inspirational coach and an efficient administrator. He was a founder member of St. Johns Athletic Club in 1958 having previously competed in the colours of Kerins O’Rahillys AC and John Mitchells AC in Tralee. His sporting career began in 1949 with Tralee CBS when he won his first Kerry championship medal in the Under 14 220 yds in Killorglin. His rise to fame followed quickly and in 1950 he won his first Kerry NACA championship medal in the Under 18 100 yards in Abbeydorney. Later that year he won his first Kerry senior championship medal in the 440 yds at the County Championships in Kilgarvan leading his club, John Michells to victory in the Quill Cup. In 1954, a magnificent silver cup was presented by
Michael J. Quill, International President of the Transport Workers Union of America and a native of Kilgarvan, to the Kerry NACA County Board. The perpetual cup was first presented at the Kerry Athletic and Cycling championships, run off in Kilgarvan on June 27th 1954, to the club that secured most points in the various championship events. The cup was first presented to John Mitchells AC from Tralee by Mrs. Mary O’Sullivan N.T., a sister of Michael J. Quill. The cup was named “Buan Corn Cuimneachain Seamus Ui Congaile” in memory of the great Irish Labour leader and patriot, James Connolly. In 1957, competing in the colours of Kerins O’Rahillys AC, he won Kerry championship medals in the Long and Triple Jump at the championships in Tarbert.
His greatest success came with St. Johns AC. He won Kerry, Munster and All Ireland titles in a variety of disciplines including 100mts, 200 mts, 400 mts, Long Jump and Triple Jump. He added to these accolades with the introduction of Master Athletics where he was a regular competitor and medal winner in track and field, cross country and road championships.
As an administrator, he was PRO of Kerry BLE from their formation in 1967 to 1971 and was the County Handicapper/
Starter from 1967 to 1978. He was the official starter at many sports meetings in Kerry including Ballymacelligott and Knocknagoshel. He was also manager to numerous Kerry cross country teams over the years and was manager of St. Johns Track and Field Team that won the National League. He was acknowledged for his life time commitment to athletics in 2009 when Kerry AAI presented him with their Hall of Fame Award at a function in the Brandon Hotel Tralee.
Christ Murray dedicated his life to athletics. He was passionate about the sport and its competitors. His pride in St. Johns AC was immeasurable and he celebrated their success, failures and sad days in equal measures. His sad
passing brings down a curtain on a forgotten side of Kerry athletics, a time when sport was sport and a time when athletes travelled the length of Kerry each weekend to a sports meeting.
The words of St. Paul comes to mind at this time when he said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
May the sod rest gently on this lovely, caring and selfless man. His like will not be seen again.” Con Dennehy
The Kerry Senior Hurlers in Austin Stack park last weekend . Kerry
The Kerry Sports Academy at IT Tralee is now open to the public for yearly memberships and Pay as you go visits Come and see us at our Open Day on Saturday January 11th from 12-4pm and enjoy:
FREE access to state-of-the-art gym
FREE fitness classes
Saturday 11th January 12 – 4pm
FREE swim sessions in the 12-metre hydrotherapy pool
Activities will also be taking place throughout the day in our International-size indoor sports hall and tours of the Academy will leave every half hour from 12:15pm from the lobby
Pre-booking for some events is required.
Visit www.kerrysportsacademy.ie for more information.
Kerry Sports Academy, IT Tralee, North Campus T: 066 7144200
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Ladies Celebrating Womens Christmas
Ch Colouring Competition Winners
Great fun at the Christmas Park Run!
In Parkers Bar, Kilflynn on Saturday, Mary O’Sullivan,Sharon Locke,, Noreen Murphy and Mary Sheehan. Photo Joe Hanley
Ladies out celebrating Women’s Christmas at Parkers Bar, Kilflynn last Saturday evening, Angela O’Sullivan,Margaret Conway,Helen Boyle,Kay O’Carroll, Eleanor Quilter,Maura O’Connell and Margaret Somers Photo Joe Hanley
Erin Flaherty who was one of the winners of the CH Wishing Upon a Star Colouring Competition with her family after she was presented with her prize at CH The Mall Tralee on Saturday, Sean Kelly, Oran, and Ava Photo Joe Hanley
Esther Tyther and Emma Core winners of the CH The Mall Tralee Wishing Upon a Star CH Colouring Competition with their parents and family, Michael and Noranne Thyther, and Mary Gore Photo Joe Hanley
Jamie Ellard with his family Katie,Ryan and James Ellard and Peter Harty and Kevin Reardon (CH) .James was one of the winners of the CH The Mall Tralee Wishing Upon a Star Colouring competition Photo Joe Hanley
Mark Riordan with his family John and Valerie and Peter Harty (CH) who was one of the winners of the Wishing Upon a Star Christmas Colouring Competition and Peter Harty Presented Mark with his prize. Photo Joe Hanley
Aoibhinn Ferris with her mom Noreen after she was one of the winners of CH The Mall Tralee Wishing Upon a Star Colouring Christmas competition and presenting Aoibhinn with her prize Kevin Reardon (Manager CH) Photo Joe Hanley
Taking part in the Christmas Park Run Mary and Annie McCaffrey and Ross Gallagher and Eevie the St Bernard Photo Joe Hanley
at the Christmas Park Run in Tralee Town Park on Masud Omar,Asad Farah, Eimear Landers,Barry O’Donnell and Tony Higgins Photo Joe Hanley
Just finished the Christmas Park Run in Tralee Town Park on Saturday, Alanna,Deirdre and Ian Moss, Mary Jo Daly and Kathleen Curtin Photo Joe Hanley
Ever think you could become a Samaritan volunteer? How? Come along to our informa�on evening
Time: 7:00pm, Thursday the 16th of January
Loca�on: Rose Hotel, Tralee
To find out more about becoming a Samaritans volunteer
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Even the dogs on the street know the Square is lethal when wet!
(Editorial , Chris Shortt )
As someone who has seen the good the bad and the ugly of the Square in Tralee since Quinnsworth morphed into Tesco in the late 1980’s , the ‘afterthought ‘ redevelopment of the Square in 2004 ( Note this was done after Tesco had departed from the town centre for greener pastures ...a case of ‘after the horse has bolted ‘ so to speak ) involved a full resurface , this surface has proved to be quite lethal when our inclement weather takes hold ...ie when it rains . I deliver the Tralee Advertiser to over 25 business’ each week in that area alone and anytime its wet , I have to be very very careful . And this is reinforced by repeated stories from business owners, their staff and their customers of people falling and slipping on
a regular basis .Unless all our footwear retailers in town have colluded over the past 25 years to sell everyone the same type of shoes , then Tralee Square has a problem , that is finally being listened to , by the Town Council .
Read what reporter Anne Lucy had to say in the Irish Times this week ...
“Tralee town square looks set to be criss-crossed with non-slip pathways to prevent the public from slipping after being described locally as the “most dangerous square” in Ireland.The open space, a trading area since the 1700s, was redeveloped and resurfaced in 2004 at a cost of €2 million as the catalyst for the ongoing regeneration of Tralee, for which an estimated
2020 Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic
€70 million is being invested in public works, housing and streetscapes.The revamp of the town square with grey bollards against a cream French limestone surface was meant to be uplifting but concerns were soon raised about how slippery it became in the wet.Last November, Tralee councillor Norma Foley (FF), who had slipped there herself demanded a fresh report on the resurfacing after a council assessment of the paving found it was slip-resistant.“It’s highly dangerous. I’m aware of several people who have fallen there. I’ve fallen there myself and seen others falling,” Cllr Foley told the November meeting.However, management insisted that tests on the square and on its side streets found nothing wrong with the surface.
Pursuing the matter at Monday’s meeting, in Tralee, Cllr Foley asked what steps had been taken to improve or upgrade the surface to make it safe.She was told that fresh trials had to be postponed because of the “inclement weather” in December. Michael Scannell, director of services for Tralee, again insisted there was nothing technically amiss with the surface of the square, and its grip met requirements. However he accepted there was “an issue identified by the public in Tralee”.New trials would take place, and a feasibility study
The Kingdom Greyhound Stadium are proud to announce Greyhound & Pet World as the sponsors of the 2020 Juvenile Classic. This prestigious event has grown from strength to strength since its inception in 2007. The winner’s prize will again be €15,000 and is sure to attract Ireland’s top trainers and owners to the Oakview venue from where a large number of entrants have gone on to contest all the classics throughout the country. Speaking at the launch, Dominic Magnone of Greyhound & Pet World stated “We are thrilled to be associated with one of Ireland’s top events. It is also great to be sponsoring so close to our home base from where we have a lot customers.”
Declan Dowling Sales, Commercial and Operations Manager said “the stadium is very grateful for Greyhound & Pet World coming on board as 2020 sponsors of the Juvenile Classic. Dominic, Kathleen & Liam are terrific sponsors of our wonderful sport in Munster for many years and would urge all owners/trainers to patronise them in appreciation of their continued support.” Entries for the upcoming Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic which starts on Fri Feb 21st are now being taken. Official and unofficial trials from entrants to the Juvenile will take place on the three Friday evenings preceding the event. Any owners or trainers who wish to trial their dogs in Tralee from here to close of entries on Tue Feb 18th should call the racing office on 061 448057.
for the redesign was also being examined, the meeting was told.“This may involve the subdivision of the open areas within the town square thereby creating desire lines which would ultimately require new paved surfaces,” the council said in a written reply to Cllr Foley.
The councillor welcomed the subdivision but said not just the square but its immediate offshoots – Abbeycourt and Denny Lane – also needed to be examined“It is the most dangerous stretch of area you would find anywhere - not just Tralee,” Cllr Foley said.The surface had been “a problem for many years,” Cllr Pa Daly (SF) said in support of Cllr Foley. He asked the council to supply an estimate, for the March meeting, of how much the local authority had paid out for trips and falls at the square following insurance claims...”.. Anne Locey ...The Irish Times Lets see what happens now .. we’ll be watching ..
Chris Shortt
Pictured at the launch of the 2020 Greyhound & Pet World Juvenile Classic Liam Murphy, Dominic Magnone & Declan Dowling
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Tralee and Killarney both make Top 10 ‘Cleanest Towns‘
Killarney and Tralee are among the cleanest towns in the country, according to the final litter survey of 2019 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Killarney is in 2nd spot and Tralee in 6th in the ranking of 40 towns and cities. The survey showed overall litter levels in Ireland’s towns were up on a year ago.
The An Taisce report for Tralee stated: “There have been enormous strides in Tralee over the last couple of years – resulting in an excellent performance and no seriously littered sites. The very good top ranking sites included The Mall, the Recycle Facility at Super Valu and Rose Garden, (a wonderful gem) which was excellent in terms of presentation and maintenance .A couple of sites just missed getting the top litter grade – Castle Street Lower and Milk Market Lane – there was façade painting at Milk Market Lane which helped to ‘take away the bare look’ of a vacant property.”
The An Taisce report for Killarney stated: “Killarney stands out for its consistent cleanliness - a great tribute to the businesses and community in this busy tourist town. With so many top ranking sites, there were some which deserve a special mention –the shopping streets at New Street, Plunkett Street and College Streets were all very good with regard to litter. Court House & Environs wasn’t just clean but was also very well presented and maintained. It was great to see the Recycle Facility at New Street Car Park so clean and tidy. High Street was moderately littered, as was the connecting road to Limerick.”
Kilkenny topped the IBAL litter rankings for a record 4th time, having last won in 2014. It finished ahead of Killarney, which was 3rd in 2018, and Swords at the top of the table. In all, 21 of the 27 towns inspected were deemed clean, a great result but down on previous years. Galway edged out Waterford to claim
cleanest city as it enters its year as European City of Culture.
Sweet wrappers, chewing gum and cigarette butts remain the most common forms of litter on our streets. “Perhaps no one item illustrates the link between litter and the broader environment better than the cigarette butt,” contends Conor Horgan. “Cigarette filters are essentially singleuse plastic which readily winds its way into our sewers and rivers, adding to the problem
Bike Park to rival best in Europe for Tralee?
Kerry County Council is considering 3 different sites with a view to creating an urban bike park and a Pump track which could rival the best in Europe , similar to facilities in Lisbon and Glasgow, Tralee Wetlands and Bally seedy Woods are 2 of the 3 sites under consideration According to representatives of Mountain Biking Kerry ..”A oneacre site is all that is required for a world-class urban bike park facility for local families as well as tourists, “ MBK have been working with the Council since 2017 on the project .Up to 300 people now participate regularly in mountain biking in Kerry between adult events in Killarney and youth rides to Dingle. However the nearest proper facilities are in Co Cork in Coillte woodlands, representative Anluan Dunne, said.He said an urban bike park would be an ideal place for families and for younger cyclists to learn how to pedal and get to know rules of the road in a safe environment. Kerry hosted three major events in mountain biking in 2019. And while “the explosion in mountain biking”
of plastic pollution, which threatens to see more plastic in our oceans than fish by 2050. Yet every day we see people nonchalantly flicking butts onto our pavements.” IBAL is offering to facilitate the setting up of a pilot programme to recycle butts in Kilkenny, as winner of the League.
In addition, a number of trees will be planted courtesy of The Tree Centre in Fermoy.
has been recognised by the Government with a €13.6 million investment in national bike trails, none of the money went to Kerry.
Tralee is the natural location for the facility due to its population size and its
established position as the county’s gateway town for adventure sports,” he said. The proposal is for 3 different experiences for riders , all at different levels consisting of an asphalt surface bike park centred on a competition-
grade pump track with a series of banked corners interlinked with smooth bumps and areas of gravel and drop-offs.Such a facility in Glasgow resulted in a dramatic fall in just one year in vandalism, drug use and crime among bored youth.
“SNAPPED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”
We pick out some great photos posted on social media each week ...if you have any good ones please send them in... email traleeadvertiser@gmail.com or message us on our Facebook page... Enjoy !
Some great Kerry matches coming up .... both home and away!!!
Tralee students taking action on litter!
Over 100 students from the 5 main Secondary Schools in Tralee will be coming together next week to design a plan to tackle litter and waste in their town. #NeatStreets
The students of Mercy Mounthawk, The Green Tralee CBS, Presentation Secondary School, Coláiste Gleann Lí and Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí taking action for the environment! Well done An Taisce, Glan Tralee and NeatStreets!
Tralee Chamber are recruiting!
Tralee Chamber Alliance is currently recruiting for the position of a Membership Executive.
The position will proactively support the Chamber to help generate new membership and ideally is suited to someone with B2B sales experience. Applications are open until close of business Friday 17th of January 2020 For more details follow the link below: https://tralee.ie/membership-executive-position/
Fisherman on Banna Beach on New Year’s Day.(Photo by Michael McCarthy)
Fisherman on Banna Beach on New Year’s Day.(Photo by Michael McCarthy)
This Sunday ....The James Ashe Annual Tractor Run In Aid of Palliative Care Unit ,UHK From The Anvil Bar , Boulteens 12-5pm
QQI Level 5
Start Date: 11th Feb
Delivery: 32 Weeks, 1 evening per week
6.30-9.30pm + webinar Course Fee: €1,395
QQI Level 6 Health Services Supervisory Management Major Award
Start Date: 11th Feb
Delivery: 38 Weeks, 2 evenings per week 6.30-9.30pm Course Fee: €1,745
QQI Level 5 & 6 SNA
Start Date: 12th Feb
Delivery: 20 Weeks, 1 evening per week, 6.30-9.30pm Course Fee: €1,195
QQI Level 6 ECCE with Montessori Major Award
Start Date: 11th Feb
Delivery: 40 Weeks, 2 evenings per week, 6.30pm-9.30pm, Course Fee: €1,595
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Open Day at IT Tralee Kerry Sports Academy Now Open for Public Membership
The Kerry Sports Academy at IT Tralee is now to the public for membership and Pay as you Go visits and will hold an Open Day on Saturday January 11th from 12-4pm.
The Kerry Sports Academy is an 8,400m2 universally accessible sports facility which includes a state of the art gym, 12-metre hydrotherapy pool, aerobics and dance studio and three full size sports halls. Hazel Byrne Manager at the Kerry Sports Academy said, “Kerry Sports Academy opened its doors to students, staff and various groups within the community in September 2019 and we’re delighted to extend that to the general public from January. At our Open Day on January 11th, people will have the opportunity to see and try all of the facilities at the Academy and avail of special open day offers and prizes.”
The Gym at the Kerry Sports Academy has more than 30
pieces of Matrix state of the art cardio equipment including upright/recumbent bikes, spin bikes, treadmills, cross trainers, arc trainers, ski ergs, a wide variety of accessible cardio and strength equipment, lifting platforms, Watt bikes, free weights, kettle bells, and slam balls.
In terms of fitness classes there’s something for everyone with 20 fitness classes a week which range from beginner to advanced levels classes in our Dance/Aerobics studios and exercise laboratory including Zumba, Spinning, Boxercise, Kettlebells, Circuit, HIIT, Fit blast, Sweat & Pump, Spin & Sculpt and many more. All classes are fully inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities.
The 12 metres x 6 metres hydrotherapy pool is also now open for public swim slots, children’s swim lessons, a variety of aqua exercise classes
and personal hydrotherapy programmes. The temperature in the pool is kept at a constant temperature of 32 –34 degrees providing benefits in terms of health, fitness, rehabilitation, mobility and pain relief.
The Sport Hall at the Kerry Sports Academy operates as one large sporting arena or separately as three
Warriors deliver Christmas Cheer!
independent multipurpose courts designed for a wide variety of sports and activities. There is a viewing gallery for approximately 100 spectators. For more information on facilities at the Kerry Sports Academy and the Open Day on Saturday January 11th please visit
www.kerrysportsacademy.ie.
Members of Garvey Tralee Warriors Basketball team who took time out on Christmas morning to visit the Children and nurse of the Children ward UHK to bring Christmas presents Photo Joe Hanley
Members of BTR(Born to Run ) team who launched the 5K Couch run in Tralee Town Park on Saturday morning, Tom Dillon and Hilda Jones. Back Noreen Quirke, Carmel Foran and Michelle O’Sullivan Photo Joe Hanley
Gary O’Neill of Shamrock Rovers winners of the FAI Cup 2019 arrives in the Rose Hotel Tralee on Saturday night with the cup and is presented with special gifts from Chris O’Neill and Amy Quirke Photo Joe Hanley
The Dineens meets Gary O’Neill with the FAI Cup in The Rose Hotel,Tralee on Saturday evening Photo Joe Hanley
Gary O’Neill welcomed to The Rose Hotel Tralee on Saturday evening by friends with the FAI Cup Gary plays with Shamrock Rovers winners of the FAI Cup in 2019
Photo Joe Hanley
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Warriors edge out Éanna in top of the table thriller
Garvey’s Tralee Warriors remain at the head of affairs in Super League after just getting the better of their League rivals DBS Éanna in a dramatic evening of action at the Tralee Sports Complex on Saturday night. The League champions had led at their ease throughout the contest before Éanna conjured up an heroic comeback to turn a 15 point deficit into a 1 point lead midway through final quarter. However the Warriors showed the character of champions by summoning up one final push to wrest back the lead in the final seconds to win out by 80-77. Next up for the Warriors is the semi final of the Cup next Saturday afternoon at Neptune Stadium in Cork where they will again cross swords with DBS Éanna in what is expected to be another thrilling encounter. The prize for the winners is a place in the Hula Hoops Pat Duffy National Cup Final on Saturday 25th January to face either Griffith College Templeogue or Coughlan C&S Neptune. Tip off in Neptune Stadium is 4.00pm. PRO Alan Cantwell ...photos Liam Ryan ..
Awards presented to 7 Fexco Kerry Heroes of 2019
Seven Kerry Heroes of 2019 were announced this morning on Radio Kerry’s Kerry Today programme. The awards, which are supported by Fexco, were presented to Dr Patricia Sheahan and the staff at UHK Palliative Care Unit; the Kerry Senior Football Team and Peter Keane; Jack Fitzpatrick of the St Mary of the Angels Parents’ and Relatives’ Association; Dr Susan Mary Lawlor of State of Mind, the Kerry Camogie Team (Clanmaurice); Margaret and John Quilligan, and Ryan Murphy. The winners were presented with specially commissioned original awards created and sponsored by Louis Mulcahy Pottery.
In a year of challenges for the county on the football pitch, inclement weather, community tragedies, the ongoing threat of Brexit to our economy and more, so many individuals and groups have shown outstanding courage, vision and leadership. Following a call out to listeners to nominate who they felt deserved to be recognised, over 40 submissions were received. The judging panel of Susan McCarthy and Helena Buckley of Fexco along with Fiona Stack and Treasa Murphy of Radio Kerry had the unenviable task of choosing seven to be honoured as the Kerry Heroes of 2019.
Dr Patricia Sheahan and the staff at UHK Palliative Care Unit, were nominated by Haulie and Carol Liston, and by
Denise Murphy. In nominating the Palliative Care Unit, Carol wrote: “My mother Catherine Liston passed away last May. I will never forget the trust that mom placed in Dr Sheahan. The care, kindness and love that was shown to mom under Dr Sheahan’s care was incredible. At the time I was heavily pregnant with twins; they were born two weeks before mom passed away. My family and I will never be able to thank Dr Sheehan and her team for the help they gave our family at the time.”
The Kerry camogie team were nominated by Kathleen Fitzgerald who wrote: “Two All Irelands from this very disciplined and dedicated panel. The final whistle in Croke Park provided memories that will never be forgotten.”
Ryan Murphy, aged 10, was nominated by Joanne Morgan who praised the Ballyduff boy for raising money for Kerry Hospice and Palliative Care “to the tune of €8,000 and still counting. He wanted to honour his late dad, Jim, who spent his last weeks in palliative care.”
The Kerry Senior Football Team and Peter Keane were nominated for uniting the county, giving us belief and making everybody proud to wear the Kerry jersey.
Laura Fitzpatrick nominated her father Jack because he “spearheaded a campaign to stop the closure of St Mary of the Angels residential facilities, so his son, my brother Bernard, and other residents could stay in their home. He formed a parents’ and relatives’ association which helped raise over €400,000 to improve and maintain St Mary of the Angels.”
Sylvia Coffey nominated her aunt and uncle, Margaret and John Quilligan, who became her and her siblings’ parents
when their own father and mother were killed in a crash. Sylvia wrote: “When I was 10, my parents were killed in a crash leaving five of us, from the age of 12 down to nine months old orphaned. My aunt and uncle took us in, they wouldn’t allow the family be broken up. I can’t begin to tell you the happiness and love we felt in that small house because of them.”
The State of Mind mental health organisation nominated its co-founder in Ireland, Dr Susan Mary Lawlor for her continuous efforts to help raise awareness of mental fitness throughout GAA clubs in Kerry and in the county’s community at large. Dr Lawlor co-founded the organisation in Ireland with her late brother Dr Martin Lawlor.
Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
Symptoms of ear wax buildup:
• Itchy Ears
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears)
• Dizziness
• Earache
• Hearing Loss
Don’t wait weeks. Microsuction ear wax removal is a safe and non-invasive procedure, suitable for most people including hearing aid users.
Adults €50 for both ears (normal price €80)
Invest in the quality of your life
Giving you back the gift of hearing
SPECIAL OFFERS FOR JANUARY ONLY
Children €80 for both ears (normal price €100)
FREE ADULT HEARING SCREENING TEST - BOOK TODAY
COMMUNITY BUSINESS ACCELERATOR PROGRAMME FOR COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS AND NOT FOR PROFIT ENTERPRISES
The Community Business Accelerator Programme is being run by NEWKD in association with O’Leary & Associates Training & Consultancy Ltd. The programme is designed for community & voluntary and not-for-profit organisations that are generating revenue or are in receipt of public funding. The Programme will be delivered over 2 phases and will assist participating organisations in developing strategies and plans which will lead to improved services, better governance and management and improved finances. The first phase will involve 5 half day workshops and one to one mentoring with Tom O’Leary of O’Leary & Associates.
The following modules will be covered over the first 5 weeks:
1. Organisational Health Check – review of services, structures and financing.
2. Review of policies and procedures and identify gaps.
3. Review of structures and governance – advice on strengthening and improving board and operational structures.
4. Financial Review – Budgeting, Cost Analysis, Revenue Analysis.
5. Needs Analysis – What services are needed, market research within the community.
Workshop Dates: February 5th, February 12th, February 19th, February 26th and March 4th
Time: 10am to 1pm
Location: HQ Tralee
To book your place on the programme, please email Ger Brosnan gerbrosnan@newkd.ie before Friday 24th of
Programme
Bon Secours Hospital, Tralee The Scotia Clinic, Tralee
What’s Happening In Tralee..
Tralee’s Chinese New Year Festival takes place in late January
It only seems like days (because it was) since the Christmas events finished in Tralee, but the muchanticipated line up of events for the inaugural Chinese New Year Festival in Tralee were announced this morning through the events team in Tralee Chamber Alliance.The first Festival of the New Year in Tralee celebrates Chinese and Irish Communities and Culture and promises to deliver a spectacle of events from the 24th of January right through to the 2nd of February next.
Chinese New Year is the Chinese festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional Chinese calendar and the festival is usually referred to as the Spring Festival in mainland China. The event organisers are embracing this concept and are creating a series of immersive and spectacular activities throughout the festival, including the traditional Lions and Dragon Dances in the town centre, a 1000 Lights Ceremony and a taste of Asia food market to name but a few of the highlights.As 2020 is the Year of the Rat the organisers are looking for ‘Rat Pack’ Volunteers to help out at a number of events. People interested in volunteering are asked to contact Bryan Carr at bryancarr7@live.com for details.
Bryan Carr of Shannonstar Entertainment has been drafted in to support the Chamber in organising the festival, he stated “It’s quite exciting being involved in the inaugural Chinese New Year Festival in Tralee, and we want to set a very high standard to make this an annual event”.
In advance of the festival, the organisers are hosting a ‘Day of Cleaning’ event in the town centre on Saturday 18th of January from 1 to 4pm. In Chinese culture it is tradition to clean the dust away to welcome in new things, and much like in our own culture we undertake a big clean in advance of welcoming visitors to our home. Tralee Tidy Towns, Tidy Tralee Together & Team Bramble, together with the support of the Chamber’s Glan team are welcoming everyone from Tralee to come in on Saturday the 18th, even for a half hour during the ‘Day of Cleaning’ to give the town centre a quick dusting in advance of the events. Ken Tobin, CE of Tralee Chamber Alliance said “Going forward we want to ensure that all events held in Tralee have a positive impact on our environment, and are as sustainable as possible, so each event we are involved with will have a clean-up day as part of their plan”
The festival kicks off with an opening ceremony on Friday 24th of January in the Mall, where traditional Chinese Lanterns, which will be adorning the town centre, will be switched on to the sights and sounds of a traditional Chinese Dragon, as Tralee welcomes in the Lunar New Year.
One key event for the Festival will be the Red Envelope and Dumpling Day. The town square will feature some traditional Chinese cooking and dumpling making with Chinese music and activities. In Chinese culture the colour Red symbolises energy, happiness and good luck, and
on Red Envelope Day gifts and money are shared in these Red Envelopes to share even more happiness. Red Envelope Day will take place in Tralee on Saturday 25th as part of Red Envelope and Dumpling Day in the square. The aptly named ‘Rat Pack’ (as 2020 is the Year of the Rat) will be around Tralee handing out information on the festival and directing you to where you can get a red envelope. Red Envelopes will be available from selected restaurants and cafes in Tralee with each purchase, as long as stock lasts. Each Red Envelope will contain something different, from big discounts in local shops, Tralee Shopping Vouchers and some will contain prizes from shops in Tralee town. Kevin McCarthy, President of Tralee Chamber Alliance stated “it’s important that each event held in Tralee has an economic impact on the town, and the Red Envelope day will directly support spending in Tralee”. Midweek from the 27th to the 31st primary school
kids throughout Tralee will be hosting a series of workshops that will bring the culture and traditions of China to life in the classroom, all building up to the big CNYTralee festival weekend in Tralee on the 1st and 2nd of February in Tralee. On the first weekend of February Tralee becomes a real ‘China Town’ with a series of events throughout the weekend in town, including the famed Chinese Dragon performance in the town square, the 1000 lights ceremony, workshops and events in businesses throughout Tralee, a ‘Taste of Asia’ food fair, and a ‘sights and sounds’ of China with Chinese music and dress. The event is developed by Tralee Chamber Alliance with support from NEWKD and Kerry County Council, and assistance from Failte Ireland, the Tralee Chinese Community and local businesses.Full details and times of all events will be available online at Tralee.ie and in local press.
Mayor of #Tralee Jim Finucane with TCA President Kevin McCarthy along with Chinese community members & business representatives at the launch of #CNYTralee at the Tamarind Restaurant , Tralee
Our group fitness has it all and for every level whether you want aqua aerobics, strength, high intensity, low impact or dance we’ve got the moves that will energise and tone you.
Get ready to party yourself into shape! This exhilarating easy to follow Latin inspired calorie burning dance fitness party will move you! If you are looking for fun and an effective danced based workout Zumba® is for you.
Splash your way into shape with an invigorating low-impact aquatic exercise. Known as the Zumba®”pool party,” the Aqua Zumba® program gives new meaning to the idea of a refreshing workout. Blend it all together into a workout that’s cardio-conditioning & body-toning. Just add water and shake!
Stop counting the reps. Start training to the beat. STRONG by Zumba® combines body weight, muscle conditioning, cardio and plyometric training moves synced to original music that has been specifically designed to match every single move. If you enjoy the party atmosphere and good vibes that a Zumba dance class offers but want to incorporate more strength and interval training into your routine, this is for you. STRONG by Zumba® instructors change up the music and moves frequently to make sure you’re always challenged to the max.
Focuses on optimising musculoskeletal performancestrength, flexibility and endurance - without risking injury or building bulk. With a focus on core stability, including pelvic and shoulder girdle stabilisation, neutral alignment and breathing, the STOTT PILATES method of exercise alsohelps restore the natural curves of the spine, relieve tension and promotes a more balanced and aligned body.
Get into the pool for this wicked water workout!. After a warm up in the water you’ll ease into the exercise using your own body weight and water.
Lunchtime Express Classes
Boost your lunch hour with these 30 minute efficient and effective classes. Ab Attack and B.L.T are primarily mat based classes, utilising your body weight and mini bands to tone and shape the abdominals, thighs and posterior chain (bums, hamstrings and erector spinae). Suitable for everyone.
AM Mobility
AM Mobility is for everyone. AM Mobility involves targeting specific joints in your body to improve your joint range of motion, and muscular flexibility. Your lack of joint mobility may be holding you back and may be a contributing factor to experiencing a host of aches and pains. Our fitness professionals will take you through some simple and effective mobilisation exercises that you can work on at home, the office or integrate into your gym routine.
Body HIIT is suitable for both men and women of all levels of fitness. A combination of body weight, free weight, and cardio exercises to keep you having fun while getting fit. Body HIIT involves exercises with high intensity intervals with breaks in-between, making sure you get the full benefit of your workout. The diversity of the class means it stays interesting and challenging for all involved.
Spinnning is a dynamic, energetic, and highly enjoyable class. Lively music gets your heart pumping, and keeps you motivated to just keep riding hard. Go on, put your foot down!
GROUP FITNESS CLASSES
PRICES
new year classes 2020
AQUA AEROBICS/MOBILITY
10:30am - 11:00am Aqua Mobility (Members Only) - Members Free
5:45pm - 6:15pm Aqua Aerobics (Members Only) - Members Free
10:30am - 11:00am Aqua Mobility (Members Only) - Members Free
11:30am - 12:15pm Aqua Zumba
6:00pm - 6:30pm Aqua Aerobics - Members Free
ZUMBA
10:15am - 11:00am Zumba Fitness
6:45pm - 7:30pm Strong by Zumba
11:30am - 12:15pm Aqua Zumba
Prices please enquire with External Instructor
6:45pm - 7:45pm Yin Yang Yoga Level 1
8:00pm - 9:15pm Aerial Yoga Level 2
10:00am - 11:15am Vinyasa Mixed Level 1
7:45pm - 9:00pm Vinyasa Yoga Level 3
1:00pm - 1:45pm Aerial Yoga Level 1
SPINNING
5:45pm - 6:30pm Post work Spin 8:00pm - 8:45pm Midweek Spin
STOTT PILATES
*Pilates Course ONLY
7:45pm - 8:45pm Level 2 Pilates 6:45pm - 7:45pm Level 1 Pilates 9:30am - 10:30am 5:45pm - 6:45pm 11:00am - 12:00pm Pilates Mixed Level 1 & 2 Wednesday
Rebecca Sh tt Beauty
HELLO BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope you’re all having an amazing week
I want to start 2020 off with all the positive vibes! I don’t really have a title or a way to phrase it. But I’ll just jump in and hopefully you’ll get what I’m talking about…
As a woman, the beauty industry can be a number of thingsAmazing, Interesting, A Hobby, A Career… but also - Stressful, Confusing, Pressurizing. There’s SO many products being thrown at us EVERYDAY to make us look “perfect”, “flawless”, “snatched”. There are hundreds of thousands of Instagram accounts of Makeup Artists who look this way. Many women “won’t leave the house” without some form of makeup on. Not because they want to do their makeup, but because they don’t want others to see them without it.
I’ve realised many things, that Makeup shouldn’t be a mask or something you NEED to wear. For me it’s something I love doing. I put it on if I feel like putting it on, but I also have no problem going ANYWHERE bare faced. I didn’t always have this mindset, remember, I grew up with acne - my life goal was covering that all up!
I realised also that photos you see… ANYWHERE, are art, not a representation of being “Perfect” or “Flawless”, because nowadays, photos are taken with professional cameras in good lighting and most of the time there’s at least 1 if not 47 filters or edits on that photo.
I also realised, on the total flip side - that makeup shaming is a thing… “She wears too much”, “she’s not natural”, “she doesn’t look like that without makeup”... WHO CARES!! If someone wants to put time and effort into there face, who are you to judge it? Maybe Makeup is their way of expressing themselves? Maybe putting on their makeup with music blaring is their form of relaxing, blocking out the world. Or maybe they’re insanely talented? Why is that a bad thing?
Just do whatever feels right for you, do a full glam if you want, go bare faced if you feel like it. Just try not to get down in yourself about someone who looks “flawless” on Instagram.
My point is… nobody should be made feel they can’t go somewhere without makeup or that they wear too much of it.
If you spend your time worrying about someone else’s face, you need to find a hobby.
Confidence is literally one of the most beautiful qualities a person can have. So once you’re doing whatever you’re doing because YOU want to and it makes YOU feel good, you’re doing it right!
BE YOUR OWN BIGGEST FAN IN 2020.
BEXBLAHFITNESS!
Hello my strong friends, HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Hope you’re all having a great week
This time of year is where EVERYONE is talking about their diet/fitness plan after Christmas and why it’s so amazing and that you should do it and it can be very overwhelming. What you should do is focus on YOU, what YOUR goals are and what YOU want. Don’t focus on anyone else’s food plan, workout plan or whatever. Just focus on what you know you should be doing for yourself. If you don’t know what that is… seek the help of a professional to see what you need to be doing. Be it a personal trainer, online coach, whatever. Just be sure they’re reputable and know what they’re doing.
Don’t feel pressured to do the latest diet craze or kill yourself running in the gym. I think it’s really important to workout because you want to and because it makes you feel good!
I’m so happy to be in a consistent routine again after Christmas because working out almost everyday is something that I do for myself. I’m lucky to be a member of The Tralee Arena, and they had fantastic opening hours over the Christmas period. U
Also, a great thing to do for yourself is to read. Reading develops the mind and gives you new things to think about. One of my goals for January is to read as much as possible, I got a few books for Christmas and I’m really getting stuck into them. I like non fiction books, some of the books I have on my list at the moment are…
Rebecca
What I know for sure - Oprah Winfrey Atomic Habits
The Chimp Paradox
I didn’t make any big goals bar one, to make more daily, weekly and monthly goals. By focusing on what you want on a daily, monthly or weekly basis you’re more likely to achieve what you want and stay on track.
Change How You Eat, Change How You FEEL!
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CLINIC
Are you struggling to lose weight?
Do you feel you have tried everything to no avail, losing weight only to regain it again? If so, we can help you!
Cooper MediCare is now running a structured and detailed five-week individually tailored, life-changing,metabolism-boosting, long-lasting, weight blasting, Nutrition Plan.
‘When followed correctly, you will enjoy unbelievable results without feeling hungry!’ Dr. Cooper’s Weight Management Clinic includes:
• Dietary Analysis
• Body Mass Index Analysis
• Body Composition analysis
• Recipe Book
‘This is a lifestyle change, not a diet. Awaken your body and mind with nutritious whole foods which will boost your metabolism and shift weight like you have never seen before!’
This is a classic dish either served as a starter or can be served as a lunch or main course .
Though frittatas are often served cooled as a first course, they make an equally good main dish, either warm or at room temperature. Here ricotta mellows the bite of broccoli rabe...Not too hard a recipe to accomplish but wait til you taste it!
BROCCOLI-RABE AND RICOTTA FRITTATA
Serves 4
INGREDIENTS
• 3/4 pound broccoli rabe, tough stems removed
• 9 eggs
• 3/4 cup ricotta (about 1/3 pound)I use once upon a cheese
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
METHOD
Heat the oven to 160c. In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the broccoli rabe until almost tender, about 3 minutes. Drain. Rinse the broccoli rabe with cold water and drain thoroughly. Cut the broccoli rabe into 2-inch lengths and set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the ricotta and 1/4 teaspoon each of the salt and the pepper
In a medium cast-iron or ovenproof nonstick frying pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the blanched broccoli rabe and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Evenly distribute the broccoli rabe in the pan and then add the egg mixture. Cook the frittata, without stirring, until the edges start to set, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle the Parmesan over the top and bake until firm, about 25 minutes
IT’S ONLY A JOKE
AN EIGHTY-FIVE YEAR OLD COUPLE, MARRIED FOR ALMOST SIXTY YEARS, DIED IN A CAR CRASH AND WENT TO THE PEARLY GATES.
They had been in good health for the last ten years, mainly as a result of the wife’s interest in healthy diets and exercise.St. Peter welcomed them into Heaven and took them to their small palace in heaven- complete with a large bedroom, Jacuzzi, full kitchen, and billiards table. “How much will this cost us?” asked the husband. “Nothing,” St. Peter responded. “This is Heaven- everything is free!” Next, he took them to the Championship golf course just minutes away from their mansion.”This is... stupendous,” the wife asked. “What are the green fees?” Again, St. Peter said “Nothing. This is Heaven- everything is taken care of.” Next, he took them to the equivalence of a five-star restaurant next to the course. Wagyu beef, prime rib, lobster, veal, salmon, rare vegetables and spices- all one could eat.”How much-”
“Again, free,” St. Peter responded to the wife. “This is Heaven.”The husband paused. “Well... this is all nice, but... do you have any low cholesterol, low-fat options...?”
St. Peter chuckled. “In Heaven, you don’t have to worry about Earthly problems. You will never get fat and you will never get sick.”Suddenly, the husband grew angry, and screamed toward the sky. St. Peter and the man’s wife tried calming him down, but he kept getting angrier.
“What’s the matter???” the wife asked. “Why aren’t you happy here???”
The man responded, “This is all YOUR fault!!! If it weren’t for your bloody ‘bran muffins’ and ‘paleo chicken’ recipes, we would have been here 10 years ago!!!”
I SAW A MAN WITH ONE ARM SHOPPING AT A SECOND
HAND STORE.
I told him “you’re not going to find what you’re looking for.”
THIS GUY GOT REALLY DRUNK.
So drunk that his friends had to carry hi Next morning he wakes up in his own bed, clean, in his pyjamas, his wife gone.Groggy as hell, he gets up and starts looking around. In the kitchen he finds an immaculate breakfast, eggs, bacon, coffee and 50 bucks. He finds a note from his wife:”Dearest beloved husband. I hope that my note finds you well. I have prepared this loving breakfast for you and I’ve left you 50 bucks to go and have a drink with your mates later. Lots of love.” Stunned, the guy runs back upstairs and shakes his son awake.”What happened, boy? What’s all this?” “Well dad, you came home , drunk as a skunk and mum was furious. We carried you up to your bedroom and when she started undressing your smelly clothes you began to push her and yell: Leave me alone you scank! I’m a married man!”
A PRIEST IS DRUNK AND DRIVING HOME
His disorderly driving reaches the attention of cops and they pull him over.
When they saw that it was a priest driving they were shocked and said “woah father how much have you been drinking?”
The priest looked at his water bottles and replied “Ah he’s done it again”
BLONDE BURGERS
A husband and wife were driving through Louisiana. As they approached the town called ‘Natchitoches,’ they started arguing about the pronunciation of the town. They argued back and forth, then they stopped for lunch. At the counter, the husband asked the blonde waitress, “Before we order, could you please settle an argument for us? Would you please pronounce where we are very slowly?” She leaned over the counter and said, “Burrr-gerrr Kiiing.”
EATING OUT IN TRALEE
Now is the time to apply for a CARA CREDIT Debit Card
Cara Credit Unions have recently introduced a new full-service Current Account. The new Current Account includes the globally accepted Mastercard Debit Card with Contactless Payments, Standing Orders, Direct Debits, and the option of an Overdraft facility. Cara Credit Union members can open a Current Account online or in your local Credit Union in Tralee, Castleisland and Killorglin. This is good news for Credit Union members and for consumers in general who have limited choice at present. Cara Credit Union is seen to offer something different to the major banks in terms of their personal touch and are considered trustworthy.
Speaking at the launch, Pa Laide, CEO of Cara Credit Union said:
“This is a watershed moment in the credit unions history. It means credit union members with savings and loans will now be able to get a competitive Current Account from their trusted Credit Union, and they will no longer need to go to a bank to get this service. For the first time, we will be able to provide our members with a real choice for their day-to-day financial needs. And this service, which will be accessible globally and digitally, will enable us to become even more relevant to our members in the ever-increasing digital world. This means that while you may live away from Kerry you can now access funds in your local credit union” For more information on the new Current Account and Debit Card see www.caracreditunion.ie
• ALL APPLE PRODUCTS FIXED IPHONES; IPADS; IPODS... INCLUDING LATEST MODELS
• OTHER MAKES TOO... SAMSUNG, NOKIA, HTC & MORE
• WE ONLY USE GENUINE PARTS... NOT COPIES!
• ASK ABOUT OUR 1 HOUR SERVICE
• WE CAN REPAIR & UNLOCK 99% OF ALL PHONES
• SCREEN REPLACEMENT, WATER DAMAGE, PHONE REFURBISHMENT, IPAD REPAIRS.. YOU NAME IT!
Tralee by Night...
Paddy Mac’s Pub
JACK MAC'S JACK MAC'S
A Great Place to Meet!!!
Tralee comes together for Siobhan (Bubbles )
Please support this event.Siobhan Maher recently suffered a Stroke and Aneurysm at her home in France. Siobhan has a long road ahead with her recovery... our thoughts are with her, and her family.
40 PREMIUM ADVERTISING
TORQUING CARS!
FORD V FERRARI ...THE MOVIE ....WHAT’S THE STORY?
In FORD V FERRARI, race car driver Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) wins the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans race but is forced to retire due to a heart condition. Meanwhile, at the Ford Motor Company, Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal) proposes that the company start making race cars as a way to improve their image with younger drivers. An attempt to partner with Ferrari goes south, so Ford hires Shelby to build their car. Shelby, in turn, hires Ken Miles (Christian Bale), a talented but volatile driver, to help work out the bugs. Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) puts executive Leo Beebe (Josh Lucas) in charge of the racing division, and Beebe immediately sets out to get rid of Miles. But Miles and Shelby have an ace up their sleeve: They actually have the talent to win races and have their sights set on the 1966 Le Mans. Nevertheless, Beebe has one last weaselly plan. This enjoyable fact-based racing movie runs a little long, but it manages to keep up a good, breezy pace, focusing more on pure entertainment than on trying to be dutifully “important.” At the heart of Ford v Ferrari are two fine performances by Damon and Bale, whose characters forge a touching friendship that’s based more on small gestures than on big demonstrations. Miles is a show-off, but Bale makes him seem real, with relatable worries and outrages. And Damon clearly enjoys his clever, quick-witted character, who still somehow makes genuine connections. At the wheel, director James Mangold gives Ford v Ferrari the crisp, confident energy of his best genre films, Logan and 3:10 to Yuma (the latter of which also starred Bale), without letting it drift into the stodgy, awards-bait seriousness of his previous biopic Walk the Line. Ford v Ferrari is so simple and classic that it could have been sent here directly from the early 1960s. Perhaps its most niggling flaw is Lucas’ slimy, one-dimensional villain character, who acts out of pure selfishness. But the racing sequences are impeccably timed, with thundering, thrilling sound design that could convert newbies into hard-core racing fans. Still, the movie’s best achievement is the sly way it depicts the central friendship, largely unspoken but still surprisingly tender.
FIAT 500 AND FIAT PANDA FIRST ELECTRIFIED MODELS IN THE FIAT LINE-UP,
The pair of updated city cars, due to launch in February and March respectively, use a mild hybrid powertrain that Fiat claims reduces CO2 emissions by up to 30%.Replacing the 1.2-litre engine, the new setup comprises a 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, a 12-volt belt-driven electric motor and a lithium ion battery. It produces 69bhp and 69lb ft of torque. The belt-integrated starter motor system is mounted on the engine and recovers energy during braking and deceleration, which is then used to restart the engine in stop/start mode and to assist acceleration. It also allows the engine to switch off by shifting the gearbox into neutral at speeds below 18mph.The models use a six-speed manual gearbox that’s “aimed at improving fuel economy in out-of-town driving” and lowers the power unit by 45mm. Fiat says this allows the cars to “behave better on the road, thanks to the lower centre of gravity”.The arrival of the mild hybrid 500 and Panda will begin with Launch Edition models. These feature an ‘H’ logo, green paint and Seaqual recycled plastic upholstery, of which 90% originates from land and 10% from the sea.Fiat has been slow to adopt electrification but plans to bounce back this year with the 500e. The plan is to continue selling the existing 500 – which was launched 13 years ago – alongside it.Other Fiat models on the way include the 500 Giardiniera estate, a new 500X compact SUV and a Tipo replacement that’s likely to be an SUV.
MOTORING SHORTCUTS
Renault has just announced pricing and spec for the new Captur. Prices start from €21,995.There are three trim levels - Play, Iconic and S-Edition - and a good mix of engines.You can pick from 11 exterior colours and four roof finishes with a total of 90 colour combinations.
* A few strange elements stand out in a new report on Irish car buying.Among them is the fact that one-third (36pc) of the population are not aware of the Government’s plan that all new cars - stress ‘new’ - sold in 2030 will be electric only.I thought everyone knew; there has been such foment about it. How does Minister Richard Bruton feel about that huge gap in awareness, I wonder?It has been splattered all over the media for more than a year, and reheated dramatically only recently. Strange.And of those who are aware and took part in the Carzone Motoring Report survey, only 16pc believe the 2030 deadline is achievable.That is a fair reflection of attitudes generally. Lots more work for the minister, I think.
I thought insurance costs had levelled off or fallen but the report says nearly half of all motorists report their premiums have increased in the past year.I wonder are people shopping around much at all?And forgive my ignorance, but I thought people usually borrowed to buy a car; the report suggests otherwise.It found the main option considered is personal savings.There must be a good few euro squirrelled away all the same. Partly explaining that phenomenon, I suspect, is a lack of understanding about, and a genuine fear of, finance.
The Carzone report says a quarter of motorists do not have a good understanding of car-finance options.Regardless of expertise or knowledge of the 2030 cut-off mark, many (70pc) plan to buy an electric or hybrid car in the near future. Exactly how near that ‘future’ is remains to be seen, but 2030 isn’t that far away.Other findings in the fact-filled report include the revelation that 31pc of motorists change their car every 2-3 years and a fifth of commuters would consider using an e-Scooter for their travel to work.The report is compiled from data from the 80-million-plus car views on Carzone last year, as well as an in-depth survey of more than 1,500 Irish drivers.It puts some flesh on the bones of the bare statistics.The main reason for buying a car is wanting a newer model (30pc), need for a more reliable motor (21pc) or a larger car for a growing family (16pc). More than half (55pc) are concerned about getting into debt.
* Best wishes to Moyagh Murdock, chief executive of the Road Safety Authority, who is moving on to take up a new role as chief executive with Insurance Ireland.She oversaw a lot of change and was never afraid to speak her mind. I hope she can help bring about as much change in the insurance industry.
(Eddie Cunningham ..Indo Motoring )
TRADE & SERVICES
EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSES! TALKING SPORT WITH THE TRALEE ADVERTISER
IT’S MID-JANUARY BUT IT’S ONE OF THE BIGGEST WEEKENDS OF THE YEAR:
While we are only in the second week of the year there will hardly be a bigger one for Tralee in the next 50. That is because two clubs from the town are just one game away from the biggest date in their sport.
NA GAEIL IN ENNIS TO TAKE ON MAYO OPPOSITION IN JUNIOR SEMI-FINAL:
On the football field Na Gaeil are taking on Kilmaine from Mayo in the AIB All Ireland Junior Club Championship semi-finals. The game will take place this Saturday at 1.30pm in Cusack Park in Ennis. The Tralee side have been very impressive in the run that sees them move to within one step of an All Ireland final. In the Munster quarter final they defeated Kilshannig from Cork 2-11 to 2-03 and then saw off an out-of-theirdepth Michael Cusacks from Clare 3-20 to 0-02.
They were even more clinical in the Munster final putting Tipperary’s Mullinahone to the sword 3-13 to 1-01 with those two scores coming in the dying embers of the game. This game had to be brought forward as it was the day of the storm warning but that didn’t deter Na Gaeil who took control from the throw-in.
Speaking after that game the Na Gaeil manager Donal Rooney said that his side has learned from their tough loss in the 2018 County final. “We lost a County final by a point in a game that many said was one of the best games they have seen. However we lost and after that game said we would not be defeated in a shoot-out again. We focused on our defence and these have been the backbone of our run this season. But we have a strong panel all over the field led by our Kerry players and we believe we are a match for any team.” Kilmaine are in the unusual position of not being their counties champions but are still contesting the All Ireland championship. That is because they lost out to Castlebar Mitchels B in the Mayo final. However B teams are by rule not permitted to a county in the provincial championships So Kilmaine havr a second chance and that makes them dangerous. Since then they have put in have good performances to defeat Ballinameen and then St Michael’s of Sligo in the Connacht final and will not lack for belief that they can keep the run going. However Na Gaeil certainly have
the squad to continue to make club history. Led by players like Jack Barry and Dara Devine I think they will have too much fire power for their Mayo opposition and as already said they have a mean defence which is certainly a recipe for success.
In the other semi-final Rathgarogue-Cushinstown from Wexford take on Monaghan’s Blackhill in Newbridge. The final has been pencilled in as a curtain raiser to the Kerry / Dublin National League game on January 25th. The Intermediate final is also set for the same day so there could be three Kerry sides in headquarters on the same day.
GARVEY’S AND EANNA MEET AGAIN WITH PLACE IN THE FINAL ON THE LINE: Basketball fans will also be on the road on Saturday as Garvey’s Tralee Warriors renew rivalries with DBS Eanna for the second weekend in a row. This time is in the Hula Hoops Pat Duffy Men’s Cup semi-final. The game tips off in the Neptune Stadium at 4pm. Griffith College Templeogue take on Coughlan C&S Neptune in the other Last 4 encounter.
In a nice twist by the sporting gods Garvey’s and Eanna met in a cracking SuperLeague game in Tralee last Saturday night. The Warriors were in scintillating form in the early stages of the game and jumped out to a 20 point lead at one stage and at the half led 51-33. Indeed going into the last quarter the Tralee boys led 65-50 and looked be set for a comfortable win. However the drama was only just beginning and Eanna hit back and actually led with four minutes to play.
While there were many big moments in the game there were three that stood out and probably were vital in the Warriors win. Paul Dick drained a three pointer from just inside his own half, Kieran Donaghy grabbed a rebound from the skies and then newcomer Andre Berry, who was immense under both boards all night, made two vital free throws late-on. The win was vital as it leaves the Warriors joint top of the table on 10 wins from their 14 games while DBS Eanna are now on 9 wins from their 13 games in another very tight SuperLeague race.
So will this have a bearing on the Cup game, which tips off in the Neptune Stadium on Saturday at 4pm? After Eanna had beaten the Warriors home in the early stages of the season it was vital for the Warriors to prove to themselves
that they could beat the Dublin side. The fact that they did this will send them into the Cup semi-final full of confidence but from an Eanna point of view the fact that they were able to come back from a big deficit and almost took the win on the Warriors will also give them plenty of encouragement ahead of Saturday’s game.
Looking at their runs to the semifinal the Warriors beat Keanes Killorglin and Pyrobel Killester while Eanna had a bye in Round 1 and then were very impressive in their away win at Belfast Star. The Cup is the only gap in the Warriors CV and add to this the hurt from last year’s semi-final, I think, give them the edge in experience. With a squad that coach Pat Price can go deep into my belief is that they will reach the biggest day in the sport – the televised Hula Hoops Pat Duffy Men’s Cup final in the National Basketball Arena at the end of the month. The winner of the Warriors / Eanna clash will take on either Griffith College Templeogue or Coughlan C&S Neptune in the final. Best of luck to the other two Kerry sides in action: As sports fans we all support every Kerry side that goes out to represent the county so we also be cheering on Templenoe in their Intermediate All Ireland semi-final and Team Tom McCarthy’s St Mary’s as they face Portlaoise Panthers for a place in the Women’s Division 1 Cup final.
FIRST SOCCER TROPHY OF THE SEASON UP FOR GRABS:
SPORTING LANDSCAPE OF TRALEE TO CHANGE FOR THE BETTER:
Urban Bike Park: There was great news for Tralee this week with the new of two new sporting facilities. The first one is an Urban Bike Park. This will provide the facilities for all ages to ride on different types of tracks. Mountain biking is very popular in Kerry with the Tralee and Killarney clubs having great numbers, especially at underage level.
In cities like Lisbon and Leeds as well as in a number of areas around the country mountain bikes tracks are very popular with the nearest being in Cork. There were plans for a major track in Killarney but this did not come to fruition.
To make this happen a one-acre site will be required and the three possible sites in the town have been earmarked for further exploration as to their suitability. One aspect the planners will look at is how this can link up with other pathways in the town allowing people to cycle to the Bike Park without going on the public roads. The Urban Bike Park would have an rubber based track with jumps and dips while there would also be other tracks in the complex including one simulation a road way with roundabouts and junctions and would be perfect for training riders.
The first Kerry District League trophy of the season is up for grabs on Sunday at Mounthawk Park. It’s the Munster Junior Cup Kerry Area final where Tralee Dynamos will take on Killarney Athletic with a place in the open draw also for the winner. Tralee Dynamos beat Dingle Bay Rovers, Classic FC and then in what was probably an upset Killarney Celtic. Athletic have knocked out Castleisland and Listowel Celtic to reach the final. Dynamos have not been setting the Denny Premier Division alight and are on one win from 5 games while Athletic are doing a bit better winning 2 from 3. A win and a trophy plus the chance to represent Kerry will mean this will be a hotly contested game. Athletic were double winners a few seasons ago while Dynamos have been re-building in recent years but did reach a Cup final. It all kicks-off in Mounthawk Park at 3.30 on Sunday.
TWO BIG GAMES:
The Green CBS have been training hard over Christmas for their Munster Colleges Senior Championship – Corn Ui Mhuiri – quarter final which will take place next Wednesday January 15th. They will face Hamilton High School from Bandon. On the basketball court on January 21st there is an all Kerry clash in the u19A Boys All Ireland Cup final in the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght. Mercy Mounthawk will face St Pats Castleisland in the decider with the Tralee boys having seen off St Malachy’s of Belfast in a hard fought semi-final 74-63.
It is thought that a budget of around e250,000 is required but when you see that the Government invested over e13 million into national bike trails and none of it in Kerry then you would expect the right proposal to be perfect for funding.
Backers of the project have said that, “Tralee is the natural location for the facility due to its population size and its established position as the county’s gateway town for adventure sports,”
NEW HOME FOR TRALEE BOXING:
The Tralee Boxing Club is one of the most successful in the sport and its members have brought many Munster and National titles to the town. The club has had various homes over the years but will soon be able to move into a purpose built facility.
It emerged from the Council meeting on Monday that plans are being finalised for a new boxing gym and gym hall and related facilities on a brownfield site which is part of the Mitchel’s area of regeneration at Cloonmore.
Tralee Advertiser Sports spoke to Donie Jack Griffin from the Tralee Boxing club and he was obviously delighted with the news.
“Of course a massive boost for us and please God it won’t be long more waiting since 1936 with 17 different addresses over our 84 years. It will be a great facility for
with “The Voice” Pat Harnett
TALKING SPORT WITH THE TRALEE ADVERTISER
our present and future members and we will hope to bring down all the big clubs which will also be great for our boxers to challenge ourselves against them.
I have also spoken to Bernard Dunne in his role as High Performance Director and he said he will be delighted to bring down the Irish squads to train. Our coaches will be in a great position to learn from Zaur Antia and his team of top coaches so all in all it’s great news for boxing in Tralee.”
In the ring the Tralee BC are heading to Togher in Cork this Sunday with 16 young boxers aged from 11 to 17. This is part of the build-up to the Kerry County Championships that will take place ahead of the Munster and All Ireland championships over the next two months.
A FEW EARLY DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES:
As this is our first issue of 2020 here are a few sporting dates for the year to come to mark in your diary:
From a Kerry point of view they will open their Allianz League in Croke Park at 7.15pm on January 25th. The National Hurling League for Kerry also begins on the same day as Kerry are away to Mayo. The Ladies begin their League campaign the following day with Kerry away to Cavan.
The Kerry camogie side travel to Galway and Down in February while the u20 footballers play their Munster semi- final on Thursday the 19th when they will be at home to either Clare / Waterford. If they qualify the Munster final will be on Thursday February 26th.
The following month will see the Kerry League of Ireland sides begin their campaigns at u13, u15, u17 and u19’s.
In cycling the Ras Mumhan will again take place over the Easter weekend while there are indications that Castleisland will host a stage end of the Ras Tailtean.
On the international front the first few months will see the usual big sporting events including the 6 Nations beginning with Ireland v Scotland on February 1st. Cheltenham takes place from March 12th to 15th while the F1 season opens in Melbourne on March 15th.
And of course later in the summer we have the Euro 2020 championships with the big question as to whether we will be there being answered in March. And then starting on July it’s the Summer Olympics from Toyko.
ACTION AT THE TRACK:
There is racing on two nights this week at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium with no racing on Saturday night.
On Friday it’s the final of the Kingdom Stadium ON3 525 yards plus the semi-finals of the ON2 525 yards. Also taking place are the semi-finals of the KGOBA/ KGSSC stakes with the final of this competition being the centre piece of the Awards Night on Saturday January 18th. Sunday night see the regular SIS meeting take place. The track is currently taking entries for the Greyhound and Pet World Juvenile Classic which starts on February 21st with a winner’s prize of e15,000.
PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD WITH BORN TO RUN’S COACH TO 5K:
If you are looking for a way to put your best foot forward this New Year in terms of fitness, getting active and making new friends, then the Tralee Born to Run Couchto-5k is just for you. The hugely popular training programme that transforms people with no running experience into fully-fledged 5k runners is back. While everyone will have their own personal goals, and each runner will take their own enjoyment from running, the first step forward for the new recruits begins next Tuesday, January 14th, at 6.30pm at the Aqua Dome car park. Training will run every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evening at the same time over the following eight weeks, with sessions lasting roughly 30 minutes.
The Born to Run Couch-to-5k programme is free but people are asked to register at www.active. com. Participants must be over 18 and for safety reasons, must wear a high-vis vest.
More information, including the link to register, is available from the Born to Run Tralee Marathon Club facebook page or www.borntorun.ie.
PARNELL’S NEWS:
Tralee Parnells Hurling & Camogie Club would like to wish all its players, mentors, supporters and families a peaceful and successful 2020. We look forward to seeing everyone back on the training pitches soon. Mentors from each age group will be in touch with their respective groups very soon regarding when training will commence for the season. Depending on the age groups, training will start indoors or on Astroturf, before moving to Caherslee in early April.
Code of Conduct: To register a child as a member of Tralee Parnell’s, it is required to accept and agree to abide by the Tralee Parnell’s Codes of Conduct. In addition, it is now a requirement that all players, coaches and parents sign that they have read and understand the Tralee Parnell’s Codes of Behaviour.
AUSTIN STACKS NEWS:
The club’s plans are well underway for the New Year with team trips and return visits from clubs being planned while the teams will also take part in all the usual competitions. The club is delighted to over football for every player that wants to join and be part of the 102 year old GAA club which has seen members win 90 senior All Ireland medals.
The u6 coaching programme will begin in Mounthawk School Hall from 10am on Sunday next, January 12th. All the former club members will hopefully be back while new members are always welcome. The u8’s will be in action in the same venue from 11am where the club will also welcome new members.
The Green CBS is the venue for the first part of the u10 footballers training and that also begins next Sunday.This will be on the astroturf. A very well attended and fruitful juvenile AGM took part this week where a wide ranging discussion on all aspects of the club activities took place. Everyone under the leadership of Tim McMahon is looking forward to the new season. Members buying Lotto tickets at the Rock Street Post Office are asked to remeber that the competiton to become the only tickets sold in their continues. Please let the staff in the Post Office know that you are a Rockie. Tickets for the National Club Draw are on sale and all club members are asked to sell or buy tickets with a Renault Clio the main prize for the e10 tickets as well as lots of other prizes including All Ireland tickets.
Scor na bPaisti – anyone wishing to represent the club in the youngest version of Scor should let any officer know.
The Ladies Club will be holding their annual Clothes Recycling Fundraiser in early spring and are asking all households to being collecting up their donations including men’s/women’s/children’s clothing, shoes, handbags, belts, soft toys and household textiles such as curtains and towels. Duvets or pillows cannot be accepted. All items must be clean and dry.
SCOR NA NOG: Kerry will be represented by three clubs in the All Ireland Scor Finals that will be held in the INCE in Killarney in February. Finuge (Music Group), Glenflesk (Ballad Group) and Spa Killarney (Quiz) all qualified from Sunday’s Munster final in Cork last weekend.
ST PAT’S NEWS: In the Lotto there was one winner, Pat Beale, of the jackpot from the numbers drawn 4,9,23 and 28. The next jackpot will be e2000 with the draw on Sunday night in O’Dwyer’s Bar.
St Pats GAA Club, Blennerville are seeking a management team for their senior team for the coming year. Interested applicants should apply with CV to the club secretary. The Jimmy Duffy Memorial Cycle takes place on this Saturday January 11th starting at the club at 11am with refreshments in Quanes Bar when the riders return from Castleisland. Entry fee to cover expenses is e7. There will be Mass on the night and then music in Quanes later on.
In conjunction with Operation Transformation & Get Ireland Walking, we will be hosting a series of community walks under lights over the next 7 Tuesday evenings.
KERINS O’RAHILLYS NEWS: The club is delighted to confirm that our senior team management for 2020 will consist of Milltown native, William Harmon as team manager and he will be joined by selectors, Willie Power, Johnno Connor and Paul Hayes. Frank O Connor (tiler) will handle logistics. Thanks to all those in our club who helped get this strong management team in place.
The club will begin the 2020 Credit Union County League Division 1 with a home game on March 8th against Kilcummin.
All club members are reminded that the Rock Street Post Office completion for the sole rights to sell our tickets there continues. The club congratulates all its members who have been representing Kerry recently. The Kerins O’Rahillys 10k takes place on Sunday January 26th with more details to come.
ON THE GREENS:
Castleisland GC: Kevin McNamara won the 18 hole stableford from Tone Brosnan and Jonathan Kelliher.
Tralee GC: The Tralee Person Scramble was won by Joe Rogers, Donagh Shanahan and Breda Shanahan. Second were Anthony O’Connor, Wayne Guthrie and Eoghan Galvin with the trio of Maurice G O’Connor, Maurice M O’Connor and Max Benner in third.
