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WHAT’S ON IN

SIAMSA TIRE, HOME TO THE NATIONAL FOLK THEATRE

WED 24TH & THURS 25TH AT 8PM CRISSCORSS

Zyber Theatre

Written by John Fraher, CrissCross, is set in a pub somewhere in Ireland, not very original one could say, but this is no ordinary pub. No indeed. Strong adult themes permeate throughout the play, suitable for 12+

TICKETS: €16/14

SAT 27TH AT 2.30PM CATCH ME

Fidget Feet

The chase is on. Red Riding Hood takes flight in this classic fairy tale with an aerial circus spin.

TICKETS: €9 FAMILY OF 4: €30

SUN 28TH & MON 29TH AT 8PM SPRINGTIME VARIETY SHOW

Churchill Players Drama Group. They promise to exceed all expectations with this variety show, in this, their 26th year...

TICKETS: €17

THURS 3RD MARCH AT 8PM THOSE FRIGHTFUL REBELS

Women and the 1916 Rising with Dr Mary McAuliffe

An insight into the stories of the Women of the Citizen Army, Cumann na mBan.

TICKETS: €5

IN THE GALLERY

SONG OF THE SEA

In association with the Butler Gallery and Cartoon Saloon

An interactive multi-media exhibition of original drawings, prints storyboards and animation...

Officially opens Fri 19th at 6pm, all welcome, Admission Free Runs until Fri 25th March

TRALEE IN HEADLINES THIS

WEEK!

+ Strictly Night in Ballygarry a sell out for Ballymac GAA

+ Bad Weather hinders politicians canvassing

+ Chamber Alliance plan Business networking event on March 2nd in Manor West Hotel

+ Shaws reopen rear entrance as plans for Dennys site evolve

+ Kerry County Council organise free workshops for Kerry festival organisers this month

+ Kerrys Eye St Valentines Weekend 10 mile run attracts over 500 participants

+ Kerry Rose Selection takes place on May 20th in Ballyroe Heights

+ Chain Gang Cycling club to hold information evening tonight in Meadowlands Hotel at 8pm

+ Paddys Day participants sought as Tralee launches "Tralee 800"

+ Search for Kerry Escorts begins as Festival Fever takes off

+ Huge crowd enjoy Spa N.School Eighties Fancy Dress night in Ballyroe

+ Kerry General Hospital renamed University Hospital Kerry

+ Bons Secours head Donna Roche takes up position as CEO of Mater Private in Cork

+ Weather and Pitch conditions plays havoc with local football fixtures

+ Ballyroe Hotel welcomes Mary Black to perform on Feb 26th

+ Top politicians , Martin & Burton show support in Tralee for their candidates

+ Tralee Restaurants enjoy strong trade over 3 days last Valentines Weekend

ARTHUR J. SPRING

SPRING SECURES FUNDING FOR KERRY SPORTS ACADEMY

The government is to provide funding of € 7.5 million towards the construction of the proposed Kerry Sports Academy planned for the North Campus of Tralee IT under the new Capital Plan. This new international centre of excellence will be home to:

UNESCO Chair - Transforming the Lives of People with Disabilities through Physical Education, Sport, Recreation and Fitness

CARA - National Centre for Adapted Physical Activity, facilitating people with disabilities

Health and Leisure Department of the IT, Tralee

Kerry GAA Centre of Excellence

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann

Sports and recreation are a vital part of life in Kerry and the new academy will be an important resource for everyone in the community involved in sports and recreation and supporting people with disabilities.

€3.2 MILLION FOR DENNY SITE

I was delighted to welcome news that funding has been secured from the EU Urban Development Fund through the Minister for the Environment which will transform the old Denny Factory site in Tralee.

The Tralee Town Centre West Urban Development Project involves the development of the ‘Denny Factory Site’, demolishing existing derelict buildings, constructing a linear amenity park and improving the pedestrian links between the site and the town centre. At least 30% of the site will be laid out as a public park and adjoining streets will be upgraded to improve linkages to the rest of the town centre.

Progress on the derelict Denny site which was gifted to the people of Tralee by Kerry Group is very welcome and I look forward to it's development as a significant civic amenity for the town.

PLANNING PERMISSION SOUGHT FOR IDA MANUFACTURING FACILITY

I am pleased to confirm that IDA Ireland has applied to Kerry County Council for planning permission to build an advanced manufacturing facility at the Kerry Technology Park in Tralee. The building will be a purposed designed 25,000 square foot facility and is part of a 20 million euro investment by the government in Tralee.

I believe that this investment will position us as to become a more attractive proposition for investors for the first time in over a decade. The facility will be suitable for pharmaceutical or medical technology, information technology or high value manufacturing.

The IDA and Enterprise Ireland are confident that a client will be secured for the plant quickly and expressions of interest have been forthcoming. The facility will be capable of employing in the region of 400 high quality jobs. In addition jobs will be provided through the construction process.

The Tralee development is part of a regional jobs and investment strategy for the South West region which is aimed at helping areas that have been slow to benefit from the economic recovery that is now beginning to be seen in the cities.

SPORTS CAPITAL GRANTS FOR TRALEE

Under the Sports Capital Grant 2015 Tralee based clubs received over €350,000 in funding. I was happy to assist a number of Tralee clubs with their applications.

Austin Stacks GAA €65,000, Kerry ETB €90,000

St Brendan’s Park FC €55,000

Kerry Cricket Club €9,000

Tralee Boxing Club €10,000

Tralee Triathlon Club €12,000

Tralee Harriers €44,000

Tralee Gymnastics €50,000

The Sports Capital Programme ensures that clubs and organisations can have the facilities and equipment they need.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: REGISTERING

TO VOTE

Question

I want to vote in the upcoming general election. How do I add my name to the register?

Answer

The Register of Electors is published every year on 1 February. The 2016/17 register comes into effect on 15 February 2016. You can check if you are on the Register at checktheregister.ie or at your local authority, Garda station, post office or public library. The closing date for submitting changes to the Register was 25 November 2015. Changes to the published Register after the closing date are taken into account in a supplement to the Register of Electors. If you are not listed on the register, you can apply be added to the supplement using form RFA2. The form is available online at checktheregister.ie or from your local authority, post office or public library.

You can make this application at any time, but in order to be included in the supplement used at an election, your application must be received by your local authority at least 15 days before polling day (Sundays, public holidays and Good Friday are not counted as days for this purpose). In general you must sign the form in the presence of a member of the Garda Síochána from your local garda station unless you are unable to for certified medical reasons

If you are on the register but your address has changed, you can have your new address added to the supplement by completing form RFA3. This will also remove you from the register for your previous address.

GRACE HAS MENTAL HEALTH TOP OF HER AGENDA.

It’s one of my top priorities and no-one is speaking about it in this election.

I’m talking about mental health services in Kerry.

One in four of us will at some time in our lives suffer from a mental health illness and I am committed to providing care for people who need it and securing faster access to mental health services across the Kingdom. Ireland ranks 4th highest in the European Union for deaths by suicide among 15-19 year-olds and here in Kerry we have the second highest rate of suicide in Ireland. We need to work together to change this. Community mental health teams are central to our vision. We want people to be cared for and receive the support they need in our communities.

Over the past four budgets we have invested an extra €125 million in mental health and we need to go even further. Economic recovery isn’t just about more jobs and money in our pockets. It’s also about better public services for everyone in the country. I will work tirelessly to achieve that for you, the people of Kerry, so we have a range of services including mental health we can be proud of.

FIANNA FÁIL WILL INCREASE THE STATE PENSION BY €30 –BRASSIL

TRALEE CITIZENS

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Tel: 0761 07 7860

Fianna Fáil Kerry general election candidate John Brassil has said that in Government Fianna Fáil will raise the State Pension, both the Contributory & Non-Contributory, by €30 over the lifetime of the Government. Commenting on the issue Cllr. Brassil said: “Older people deserve a decent income in retirement and a decent standard of living. Fianna Fáil will deliver for older people and will increase the State Pension by €30. Furthermore, we will raise the Living Alone Allowance to €15. We will also abolish the waste that is Irish water, scrap water charges and abolish prescription charges which are a huge burden for older people. “Despite their claims to have protected older people, the actions of Fine Gael and Labour tell a very different story. There has been a raft of harsh and regressive cuts and measures that have directly affected the incomes of older people in Kerry. Older people have seen a fivefold increase in prescription fees, changes to the eligibility criteria for medical cards, the axing of the telephone allowance, reductions in the vital Household Benefits Package, the abolition of the Bereavement Grant and the introduction of water charges. “It is a myth pedalled by the Government that older people have been protected. Older people across Kerry know that that is simply not true. No amount of spin can take away from the fact that under Fine Gael and Labour the rate of deprivation for those aged 65 and over has increased from 9.5% in 2009 to 14.3% in 2014. In Government Fianna Fáil will put an end to Fine Gael’s and Labour’s agenda to target those who have the least to give. Fianna Fáil will deliver for older people in Kerry. We will create a fairer society and we will ensure that under our watch older people are given the resources that they need to live full and independent lives. It’s time we established a threshold of decency in our society.”

Health

Since I entered politics in 1983, I have always given Tralee my top priority and hold a weekly clinic in the Grand Hotel, Denny Street each Monday from 4pm to 6.30pm. My wife, Mary Dowling, grew up in Tralee where her family has been in business for the past 60 years. She teaches in MounthawkSecondary School.

I have been a constant campaigner for improved services at Kerry General Hospital and played a major supportive role in getting the Community Nursing Unit for the town, a facility which I oﬃcially opened in 2014.

I campaigned for a number of years for a new A&E, a Mammography Unit, improved cardiovascular services, the extension of the Palliative Care Unit, and other services at the hospital.

Education

As a former teacher, I have a special interest in education. I am delighted to have been involved directly in the provision of a new Primary school at Blennerville, the extensions to Scoil Eoin NS, Balloonagh, CBS Primary School, and Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School. I was also honoured to have been invited to open the new extension to CBS Secondary School, The Green, Tralee. In the recent Capital Programme for School Building announced by the Government a new school will be provided for Gaelcoláiste Chiarraí in 2017. Also, at primary level, new schools will be provided for Listellick (NS) and Tralee Educate Together. The previous government had made a decision to amalgamate the Kerry Education Service with Limerick Education Service. I was central to getting the decision reversed, as it would have led to a loss of jobs in Kerry and the dismantling of what is a very successful service. I have a long association with Tralee Institute of Technology. As a member of Cabnet, I ensured that Tralee IT will be granted University status, and together with CIT in Cork, will form the new Munster Technological University once speciﬁc performance criteria have been achieved. This will be a signiﬁcant boost for Tralee and Kerry. I have worked closely with the foundation promoting the Centre of Excellence on the IT campus. This will involve an investment of €13 million, and work will commence in 2016. This government provided €7 million in the 2016 Capital Programme for the centre.

OPENING OF COMMUNITY NURSING UNIT, KGH.

“My NUMBER 1 priority is to champion your welfare and the interests of the people of Tralee. I have always worked tirelessly to promote job creation and improve the educational, health and infrastructural services in Tralee as well as promoting the Arts.”

Business and Employment

I was delighted to have played a role in JRI America locating in the Technology Park. JRI now employs 70 highly skilled individuals and will be expanding its workforce in the years ahead. I opened a 14,000 square foot oﬃce for JRI on January 11th. The IDA will also be providing an advance manufacturing unit in the technology park which will improve considerably the probability of attracting new, quality employment to Tralee. I was instrumental in having Tralee included as one of only three locations nationally for this type of facility at a cost of €20 million.

Tralee By-Pass

For years the people of Tralee have suﬀered from traﬃc congestion resulting in delayed commuting times to work.

I was delighted that work on the Tralee by-pass commenced and was completed during the present government’s time in oﬃce and that I had the honour of opening the €75 million project in August 2013 - the biggest investment in any road project to date in the county. I campaigned for the bypass for many years.

Urban Regeneration

The regeneration of the Mitchel’s district in Tralee is recognised as being one of the most successful of its kind in the country. Over €28 million has been spent on the project resulting in the improvement in the quality of life for its residents. I am conﬁdent that further funding for a scheme of 11 houses and environmental works will be provided to complete the re-generation project during 2016.

Sport Capital Programme

Since the formation of this government in 2011 various sporting organisations in Tralee have been successful in getting funding from the Sports Capital Programme. To date, Tralee sporting organisations has been allocated in excess of €850,000.

Siamsa Tire

TRALEE TOWN CENTRE WEST, URBANPROJECTDEVELOPMENT AWARDED A GRANT OF €1.5 MILLION

As Minister for Arts & Heritage and the Gaeltacht I worked very closely with the Board members and Management of Siamsa Tire to ensure its future survival, and to put it on a sustainable ﬁnancial footing.

These are just some of the many initiatives that I have both spearheaded and been associated with as a Minister over the past ﬁve years. I want to continue to work for you, the people of Tralee for another Dáil term. I can only do this with your support on election day and please continue your preference for Grace O’Donnell and Brendan Griﬃn.

Jimmy Deenihan, T.D., MINISTER FOR DIASPORA AFFAIRS

OFFICIAL OPENING TRALEE BY-PASS WITH THE ROSES

OPENING IRISH TV MUNSTER OFFICE 2015, AT TRALEE IT

JUST POLITICS

THE ELECTION TRAIL ....THE LIGHTER SIDE

as seen by Beatrice Caball

There are few things that define an Irish election more than the canvass: I’ve tagged along with a few for a few, and the interaction and exchanges are always a fantastic barometer of things in themselves, which is why the Irish politician regards it as so important. Of course any that I have ever been on have always been at a more agreeable time of the year. Whilst sunburn was never a risk, being left unconscious by a flying poster was never a hazard either. Fortunately some of my outings have been in bright blue skies anyway! Firstly with John Brassil of Fianna Fail and his party leader, and also with Grace O’Donnell of Fine Gael. Alas Independent Michael Healy Rae’s time in the town weather-wise wasn’t in the same class of warm glow as the feedback, and he confided that it’s the cold that he’s struggled with most. He also admitted when pressed that a few of his posters have ended up casualties! The midterm break has meant a lot of children at home this week, and watching the bewildered gazes makes you wonder at how things can change as we age. Interestingly, all that I’ve been out with have commented on how the receptions that they’re encountering this time are mellowing considerably from more recent outings, and little abuse has been suffered (though Grace was alarmed to be greeted at one door by a man bearing a hatchet – she was relieved when he clarified how he’d been working out back and had simply heard the door!). Michael Healy Rae told me of how he’d received nothing but positive feedback from the town, and even more so since news of his brother running broke. I saw myself the reception that a national figure like Micheal Martin was rece iving from the people of Tralee, and it was entirely polite and civilised. Amusing and bizarre things occur whilst out and about – an d one was the Fianna Fail leader coming face to face with Jimmy Deenihan of Fine Gael as we reached the Grand Hotel. If nothing else, candidates have amazing enthusiasm and energy, and for that alone they need to be commended. Of course there’s the age-old adage to beware of the dog: nobody I’ve spoken to thus far has had any genuine scares, and indeed Michael joked his confidence that there would be a few number ones for the Healy Raes had the dogs a vote themselves. I must confess that my own greatest concern was of walking in to something as I traipsed along about the streets and estates of Tralee…

RENUA ...CUTTING THE COST OF CHILDCARE

Renua Ireland candidate for Kerry, Donal Corcoran has stated that the cost and availability of quality childcare in Kerry is one of the biggest issues facing young families in Kerry. The cost of childcare is the equivalent to a second mortgage in some cases and while there is tax relief in relation to some mortgages there is no tax relief for childcare. Renua Ireland is proposing tax relief for childcare and the establishment of community crèches and have launched their childcare policy recently to address this issue. Their childcare policy centres around 3 key points .

1.AN EXTENSION OF THE PRINCIPLES OF FREE EDUCATION

“We will create of a network of community crèche facilities across the state that provides good quality community care at affordable prices.”

2.TAX RELIEF FOR PARENTS AND PROVIDERS

“We believe that, as an interim measure, an income tax break for childcare is a necessary step to alleviate the burdensome cost of raising children.”

3.REAL EQUALITY FOR PARENTS

“RENUA Ireland will change maternity care provisions so that leave can be deemed ‘parental leave’. For families with a stay-athome mother, this means the working partner can avail of the full amount of parental leave as of right. “

Nothing epitomizes the failure of our childcare model more than the prospect of aspiring parents being priced out of parenthood

Lisa Healy of Garvey’s SuperValu check out meets Micheál Martin leader of Fianna Fáil Party whil on tour in Tralee on Monday

Micheál Martin receiving a submission from Martin and Marie in Rock street post office

Healy-Rae

I want to thank the people of Tralee and North Kerry for the very warm welcome that you gave to me and my canvassers when we called to your homes over the last number of months. I have travelled every road in North Kerry and I have been to every village, parish and community. I really want to serve you and your families in the years ahead in Dail Eireann. The only way this can happen is by you and your families kindly giving me your No.1 Vote or next preference.

I have a history of being a committed and determined hard worker for the people that I have had the privilege to represent over many years. I am now asking you to let me work for YOU.

For over 40 years the Healy-Rae’s have given a sound solid political service to the people of South Kerry and the results are there to be seen. Please let us continue that sound solid work in North Kerry.

I would ask you to continue with your No.2 Vote or next preference for Danny Healy- Rae.

Dear Voter Regards,

Working With:

Danny Healy-Rae MCC: Mobile (087) 231 6055

Johnny Healy-Rae MCC: Mobile (087) 235 4793

Email: johnnyhealyrae@gmail.com Fax: 064 663 7375

LEGAL MATTERS CORNER

MIRIAM MC GILLICUDDY ANSWERS YOUR LEGAL QUERIES

For Richer For Poorer

John was advised by friends shortly after his engagement to seek advice regarding a pre-nuptial agreement in order to protect his family farm “Just in Case”.

The Irish Constitution recognises the family as a natural and primary unit of society. The Constitution has promised to guard the sanctity of marriage and Prenuptial Agreements can be seen to be an attack on the institution of marriage and that the Courts are not bound to divide the assets according to these Agreements However these agreements are becoming increasingly popular among many couples, especially, property owning women in their 30s who are close to the top of their careers and farmers who have inherited the land from their parents and wish to pass it onto the next generation. Legal recognition of pre-nups would go a long way to easing these concerns

The Irish Farmers’ Association is lobbying to have pre-nuptial agreements legalised as it wants to protect family farms. Although pre-nuptial agreements are not as yet legally enforceable in Irish law neither are they illegal and it has been recognised by the Irish Courts that such agreements will be looked at in the context of Separation/Divorce Proceedings in deciding the distribution of Assets, determined by the Courts on a case to case basis. The fact that prenuptial agreements are merely persuasive as opposed to binding in Irish family law courts does not inspire confidence given their non- binding status. However, couples still opt for them in the hope that it will provide fair and reasonable provision for each party in the event of a breakup. In fact the fairer the agreement the more likely it is to be applied.

The Department of Justice and Equality has begun a policy analysis of this issue, with a view to assessing the implications of such a proposal for families in the context of marital breakdown.

Any couple considering a prenuptial agreement should be advised by their Solicitor. Both sides need independent advice and couples considering a pre-nuptial agreement should understand that the agreement has no legal basis and may not be enforceable. The agreement must be in writing, signed and witnessed made after each party has obtained independent legal advice. Both parties must be happy and not feel pressurised into signing the agreement. Each side must have time to consider the proposals prior to signing and practitioners feel that three months before marriage is the optimum time period for such consideration. That is it should not be too close to the actual wedding date. There should be full disclosure of all assets by both sides and both parties must formally acknowledge that the agreement is intended to be legally binding now and at any time in the future. It is considered advisable to insert a provision that the agreement should have periodic reviews for any fundamental change in circumstances e.g. arrival of children.

Lawquip: “To keep your marriage brimming with love in the marriage cup Whenever you are wrong admit it and whenever you are right shut up.” Ogden Nash If you have a legal query or need further information on any item addressed in this column please send in your query to mirs@gofree. indigo.ie

McGillycuddy - Solicitors and Mediators, Derryana, Ballyard, Tralee

ROUNDYS BAR ...ONLY

MONKEYING AROUND!!!

Roundys bar are celebrating the Chinese year of the monkey, which began on February 8th, in the way they like best, by inventing a cocktail. The cocktail has vodka, freshly squeezed lime , homemade ginger syrup and homemade candied ginger but best of all is served in a Chinese takeaway container. “ They are proving a big hit and are even big enough to share “ said Stewart Lyons We have it on good authority that no monkeys were harmed in the making of this cocktail

An Tanaiste Joan Burton TD leader of the Labour Party her her visit to St Brendan’s NS Blennerville met up with Terry O’Brien’s children who are pupils of St Brendan’s NS Blennerville at the school on Tuesday also in pic is Arthur Spring TD

Miriam

GROOMING TIPS FROM THE BARBER...

M: 0873931388

Beards and Facial Hair

In the last few years men’s facial hair has gone from being refined to untidy men, to being a fashion statement for males from all walks of life. We will discuss different beard options and how to keep them clean and prim.

The shorter long beard

This ‘shorter long beard’ is for those who want to maintain a long beard but with a shape to it. We taper down the sideburns into the beard and shape out the edges to the length you wish. The lines on the cheek are sharp in order to contrast with the full, naturel and unpredictable growth below. This style only works if you have extensive facial hair growth. It’s a good way of concealing a smaller chin, a double chin or elongating a rounder face.

The short beard

If your looking for something that sits between a full beard and stubble then you should opt for a short beard. Short beards are easy to care for. It is a versatile look that can suit most haircuts and appear smart and rugged at the same time. The shape follows your facial angles. The hair is kept close to the cheek about 1cm long and let a small bit longer around the chin area, to give a more masculine shape. This beard shape doesn’t require a crazy amount of hair growth although you’ll need ample coverage. This is a style of beard that suits most face shapes and is easily achieved.

How to mind your beard

In order to maintain a desirable beard you should brush and wash it with shampoo daily. We would recommend the Doctor K Beard Company beard tonic and shampoo.

GADGET CORNER with Jason from the

COOL GADGETS

Cocoon 600 headphones

These are a great set of wireless bluetooth head phones which pair automatically with all Bluetooth devices. Sound Quality is excellent for headphones with no leads. They come with a built in mic for calls and gaming and are available in a wide range of colours

Trident Covers

These have just been launched and give high end device protection for your iPhone 6; 6s; 5;& 5s.These covers are slimline and colourful but are high grade Robust covers that also have a charging port and button protection

KEEP YOUR

DEVICES SAFE!

Mobile unlocking

Did you know that when you purchase a handset from a provider, that handset is locked to that particular network and if you try to put in a sim from a new provider it will not accept the sim and may lock the phone .We have access to the latest software which allows our unlocking technician unlock 90 percent of phones in less than an hour and thus hand back control of your device to you.

Laptop of Virus

Did you that UK police are looking for 'Source a Virus' which infected Thousands of Laptops PC across the UK and harvested people's Bank details and stole 20 million pounds sterling from people's bank accounts. As we do more and more online it's very important to check your laptop and get good virus protection. Don't skimp when it comes to this . Good tech stores will be able to provide a service to add virus protection to most devices , to suit your needs and pocket and remove all threats. from your Laptop Tablet or PC.

All items mentioned above are available in our Store or visit us online www.phonedepot.ie

Screen repairs and new batteries available for all devices

ARE YOUR KIDS STRUGGLING WITH LANGUAGES?

Grappling with Gaeilge!

Failing at French!

Grinding out German!

Struggling with Spanish!

Indifferent to Italian!

GIVE YOUR TEENAGER AN ADVANTAGE WITH GREENVIEW LANGUAGE GRINDS!

We deliver..

• A focussed environment

• Small class sizes

• Excellent teachers

• Choice of class styles to suit all budgets (Group, small group , Buddy or Private)

Contact Alison or Anne with your Language Queries:

Landline: +353 (0)66 7180088

Mobile (Anne): +353 (0)87 2275677

Mobile (Alison): +353 (0)87 9341613 Website: www.greenviewlanguages.com

Opening 21st of March

Embroidery Special 350 75

Embroidery is a method whereby fine strokes are penetrated into the skin for a hair-like finish. The appearance is completely natural and blends with or without hair along the brow bone.

Embroidery only penetrates the very top layer of the skin – only hand tool is used. The tool is placed on the surface of the skin and gently moved forward and up to flow pigment into the skin – various lining and shading techniques are used.

Monday 9.30am - 6.00pm - Tuesday / Wednesday 8.00am - 7.00pm

Thursday / Friday 8.00am - 8.00pm - Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm

Bexblah Beauty

This page is sponsored by Munster Robes & Kitchens

Hello my beautiful friends! I hope you’re all having a great week! This week I will be talking about my fabulous new nails by Inga and also my current makeup must haves.

GLAM NAILS BY INGA

I haven’t got my nails done in AGES, between living in Dublin, having such a busy Christmas, being in Toronto and job hunting I have barely had any free time at home in Tralee, until now. I finally had time to get my nails done by the amazing Inga at Nails By Inga in Sean Taaffe Tralee.

I’m so indecisive when it comes to choosing what I want on my nails, but Inga always has so many ideas and is SO creative so I mostly just tell her what I kind of want, listen to her ideas and let her do her thing and as you can see, my nails turned out GORGE. Inga puts such effort and care into each nail and does all the designs by hand. I didn’t want too much colour and I absolutely love the mermaid effect on the nails. So yeah, if you want to feel amazing about yourself, go treat yourself and get your nails done! Also if you’re stuck for a Mother’s Day gift, why not get her a voucher to get her nails done.

CURRENT MAKEUP FAVOURITES

When it comes to my makeup sometimes I can be a creature of habit but I like to switch it up now and again, my newest thing is red lips, I am obsessed with a good red lip. I actually was lucky enough to get my hands on one of Kylie Jenner’s Lip Kits and I got the shade Mary Jo K, which is a red colour. It hasn’t been delivered yet but when it is and I use it a bit I will have a full review up!

THE BEAUTY BLENDER:

If you haven’t used an actual Beauty Blender, like the actual branded beauty blender, you’re living a lie. And no I am not being dramatic, it’s amazing. It makes my makeup go on so flawlessly and it literally looks airbrushed. You can get one on Beauty Bay online for €20 and you get free delivery. When/If you do get it, dampen the sponge and then apply your foundation, thank me later!

BECCA COSMETICS ‘Champagne Pop’ HIGHLIGHTER BY JACLYN HILL:

First of all if you don’t know who Jaclyn Hill is, go onto YouTube, type in her name and prepare to be amazed. Back to the highlighter, I love love loveeeeee highlighter, as well as red lipstick, it’s my new thing. I got this in Sephora in Toronto but you can get it in Space NK in Dublin too.

NYX SOFT MATTE LIP CREAMS: They come in fab colours, they stay on so well, they’re so cheap, they are a matte finish and you need at least three in your life. My favourite colours are Stockholm, Copenhagen, Cannes and Amsterdam. You can get them in CH. I can’t tell you the last time I used a Mac Lipstick because I use these so much, and that’s saying something!

So that’s it for this week! I hope you all enjoyed my current mascara favourites. Have a great weekend and I’ll be back here next week with more beauty related goodness! If you want to contact me for an event, collaboration or just to say hi you can email me at Bexblahbeauty@gmail.com or through any social media, FACEBOOK: Bexblah Beauty, TWITTER: @Bexblah, INSTAGRAM: @Bexblah.

Rebecca We provide an exclusive range of Slide Robes while you design the interior

design & quotation)

Stop Wishing... Start Doing

ADVANCED FACIAL TREATMENTS

JET PEEL FACIAL

(non-invasive deep exfoliation via micro jet technology) Buy 4 Get 1 More! (Save €85 euro)

PRIMALUCE COSMETIC PEEL

LIPOFIRM PLUS (inch loss, contouring, sculpting) Buy 8 Get 2 Free (Save €200) at

The Sanctuary Clinic in the Square, Tralee

ADVANCED BODY TREATMENTS

ENDERMOLOGIE (FDA approved treatment for permanent reduction of cellulite – 8 treatments required) Buy 7 Get 1 free (Save €80)

(AHA/PHA Peel – no downtime required, course of 6 ‘shock therapy’ recommended) Buy 5 Get 1 Free (Save €90)

LIPOFIRM RADIOFREQUENCY FACIAL

(Award winning skin tightening facial treatment – For best results 8 treatments recommended) Buy 6 Get 2 Free (Save €200)

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(wrinkle reduction, acne scarring, pigmentation, cellulite, stretch mark) Buy 3 get 1 Free (Save between €150-€190 depending on area to be treated)

IPL PHOTO-REJUVENATION

(pigmentation, uneven skintone, skin brightening) Buy 5 Get 1 Free (Save €150)

ELLIPSE LASER FOR ONYCHOMYCOSIS

(Fungal Nail Infection) Buy 4 get 1 Free (Save €100)*This offer is available from 2nd treatment onwards only

T & C’s: To avail of any of these offers, payment is required before 29 Feb. All purchases are valid for 1 year from date of purchase and are non-transferable and non-refundable

BALANCING YOUR HORMONES NATURALLY

Hardly a day passes that we don’t have a woman in store pleading with us for a “miracle” answer to her hot flushes and night sweats. As a rule we don’t do “miracles” but we can advise on some very effective herbal and homeopathic remedies that can really help to alleviate these dreaded symptoms! Along with flushes and night sweats some of the other symptoms that may need attention are mood swings, hair loss or thinning, low energy levels, low libido and of course the bones need to be looked after. Severity of symptoms of course vary from woman to woman but there are some excellent natural remedies available, just a question of finding the right one for u!!!! (With our help of course!)

As I mentioned earlier we spend a lot of time in store discussing different needs and symptoms. Some of the more successful remedies we recommend are:

• SAGE: known to help with hot flushes and night sweats.

• AGNUS CASTUS: This herb is an adaptogenic and has a balancing effect on the body and hormones.

• SHATAVARI: Traditionally used in Indian medicine for hundreds of years as a hormone balancer. Effective in dealing with mood swings, flushes and night sweats.

• VALERIAN: has a sedative effect on the body so if disturbed sleep (waking with night sweats) is leaving you feeling drained try taking this.

It is also vitally important to maintain the correct balance of essential vitamins and minerals during this time, such as B VITAMINS, CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS and VITAMIN C. There are some excellent multivitamin complexes available which have been specially formulated for use during and after the menopause, such as NHP by Marilyn Glenville, definitely worth checking these out.

There are also some homeopathic remedies available in store that we have been recommending for years with very good results so just call in and we will be happy to discuss these with you.

If you have hormone related health issues or osteoporosis, the UK’s leading Nutritionist Dr. Marilyn Glenville PhD will be in Manor West Hotel Tralee, on Tuesday 1st March at 7pm, covering topics such as increase you energy, eliminate mood swings, improve your memory, reduce stress and lose weight without dieting. Tickets available at all Horan’s Health Stores.

Until next time, stay healthy.

STRESS IS A MAJOR CAUSE OF HORMONE IMBALANCE SO IT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP YOUR STRESS LEVELS IN CHECK.

Bexblah Fitness!

HELLO MY STRONG FRIENDS! I HOPE YOU’RE ALL HAVING A GREAT WEEK. THIS WEEK I SAID I WOULD TALK ABOUT MY CURRENT FAVOURITE FITNESS YOUTUBERS AND MY FAVOURITE GREEN TEA!

I love YouTube, I watch it more than I do TV. I think watching fitness YouTuber’s can be both informative and motivational. So here’s a list of my favourites.

NIKKI BLACKKETTER.

American YouTuber who has an amazing bum and has lots of workout videos on how to get one!

ROB LIPSETT.

An Irish YouTuber taking the fitness world by storm. He busts fitness and diet myths and shows that it doesn’t cost a fortune or have to be boring to eat well!

SIOBHAN OH FITNESS.

New to YouTube, Siobhan does lots of Q&A’s which are very informative!

GEORGIA’S FIT LIFE.

Another Irish lady who is a strong advocate of balance and counting your macros, her videos are SO informative!

MEGSQUATS.

An American lady who has a sweet tooth and a killer figure! GREEN TEA

If you’re an avid reader of my page you know I love Green Tea. It has SO many benefits and I have found one that really does taste good, because I know a lot of them just taste plain vile.

The Barrys Green Tea with Mint is literally the only Green Tea I will drink.

It is still made with 100% natural green tea leaves but the mint just makes it taste that much better. If you don’t already, here’s why you should be drinking Green Tea.

It contains caffeine and can replace coffee.

• It increases fat burning and improves physical performance.

• It improves your dental health.

• It can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

• It can lower your cholesterol.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE...

THE VERSATILE SHOP THAT REALLY FITS YOU

SINCE opening its doors in May of 2011 The Zip Yard Tralee has grown to be one of the top garment alterations location in the region. Apart from providing the very important repair and mend service used by us all,

The Zip Yard Tralee has also concentrated and developed a speci alised bespoke service which brings individual designs and styles to life for the one off fashion i tem. The Zip Yard Tralee staff are accredited and trained by Julie Cobbe of stylefish.ie to understand body shapes and to advise on how you can maximise to your advantage the best way to present your dress which will compliment your body shape. As your weeding day is one of the most important days in your l ife, The Zip Yard Tralee operates on an appointment basis so as to ensure you and your entourage have lots of time, total privacy (no one getting a sneak peek in advance!) and most of all a dedicated and highly experienced seamstress who will be with you from the first day you meet to the day you collect your dress to wear on your big day! The Zip Yard Tralee wants to ensure that you will: Look your very best Feel totally comfortable and confident in your dress And most importantly---“WOW” your husband to be, families and guests as you walk up the aisle! It’s your day; we would love to be a small but important part of it! The Zip Yard -2 Denny Street-Tralee - 066 7185684 www.thezipyard.ie

THE SEARCH IS ON FOR THE 2016 KERRY

ROSE!

It was all smiles and laughter this Valentines Day as the 2015 Kerry Rose Julette Culloty joined forces with Rose of Tralee Elysha Brennan & Escort of the Year Shane Kenny to launch the search for the 2016 Kerry Rose, which takes place on the 20th of May at the Kerry Rose Selection sponsor hotel - The Ballyroe Heights Hotel

Taking place from 17th to 23rd August, the 2016 Rose of Tralee International Festival will run for seven days this year featuring almost 70 Roses, more entertainment and an extra night’s TV coverage.

For the past 11 years Roses from all over the world had to travel to Portlaoise

try and make it through to the televised stages of Ireland’s top festival.

at the end of May to take part in a qualifying event to

Only 32 Roses can be accommodated on live TV and, until

Easter Camps

Where Children will Achieve a HigherStandard of Swimming

Please Note: This is a Training Course

This is a great opportunity for your Child to Learn to Swim or Improve their Swimming Ability. Giving your Child the Lifetime. Skill of Swimming which will help develop their Social Skills, Give them Con dence and may even Save their Lives.

CLASS DATES

Commencing Saturday March 26th to Friday April 1st (inclusive) 7 x 45mins and 1 Hour 30

Minute Classes

Level 1 & 2: €30.00 per Chil

Level 3 & 4: €40.00 per Child

Classes for Children between the Ages of 5 to 15 Years

Opens at 8.00am on Monday March 7th

Clounalour, Oakpark, Tralee, Co. Kerry

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE IN PICTURES!

: Members of ‘Our Lady and St. Brendan’s’ Fund Raising committee , who presented Fr Padraig Walsh PP with a cheque for 33,135 EURO proceeds of the Silver Circle. Sitting left Bernie Conway, Cornelia Casey, Fr. Padraig Walsh PP, and Paddy Brosnan presenting the cheque, and Bobby Boylan, back left Joe McKenna, Noreen Guerin, Joan Broderick, Bryan

and Kitty Collins.

ABOVE

Kearney, Pauline Comerford,

ABOVE: Attending the Table Quiz at the Brogue Inn on Friday night, fundraising for the Kerry School of Music, left Shelia Wells, Killian Parker, and Maria O’Donovan, Banna.

ABOVE: Alys Griffin, Lixnaw, and Ri Galway, Firies, celbrating Valentines Day at the Grand Hotel.

ABOVE: Mary Brosnan, and Richard Horgan, both from Listowel winners of dinner for two from Radio Kerry, at the Brogue Inn on Valentines Day.

ABOVE: Annette and Pat Morrissey, Tralee, celebrating Valentines day at the Brogue Inn.

ABOVE: Attending the IFA meeting at Manor Hotel on Saturday night. LtoR. Henry Gaynor, The Spa, and Independant candidate for the 2016 election, Joe Dillon, Abbeydorney.

ABOVE: Enjoying the beautiful day for Valentines Day 10k from the Wetlands on Sunday. Left Ethel Meehan Lixnaw, Niamh O’Sullivan, and Carol O’Hanlon, both from Tralee.

ABOVE: Lining up for Valentines Day 10k from the Wetlands Tralee on Sunday. LtoR. Gemma Lawlor, Fenit, Geraldine O’Brien, Farmers Bridge, Lorraine O’Brien, Fenit, Helen McCarthy, Farmers Bridge, Mary Roche, Tralee, and Anne Moynihan, Tralee.

ABOVE: Frank Hayes, Director of Corporate affairs Kerry Group plc. Cllr. Terry O’Brien, Services Co-Ordinator for IWA. and Kathleen McLoughlin Chief Executive Officer, Irish Wheelchair Association.

ABOVE: Table Quiz at the Brogue Inn on Friday night, fundraising for the Kerry School of Music, left Fiona, and Amy Qejuani, Tralee.

ABOVE: Celebrating Valentines Day at the Brogue Inn on Sunday. Left Helen Roche, Tralee, Donna, Dawn, Dionne and David Rogers, Tralee.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE...

CELLULITE CAN BE A NIGHTMARE !

So what is ‘ENDERMOLOGIE’ and what does it do?

Cellulite is a true nightmare for some and affects nearly 90% of women! And if that wasn’t enough, cellulite areas remain totally unaffected by even the strictest diets and physical exercise. Endermologie is an FDA approved treatment for the permanent reduction of cellulite. The treatment works by a process known as LIPOMASSAGE which activate the production of collagen and elastin while re-sculpting and contouring the targeted area.

The result – Redfined, toned and visibly smoother skin over a course of 8 treatments! FACT – If while reading this you are sitting with your legs crossed, you may need LIPOMASSAGE to re-sculpt your contours – especially your buttocks! That’s right – if you cross your legs regularly while you’re sitting, you’re distorting the curve of your buttocks making them square and asymmetric – Oops!!

For full details on this treatment contact The Sanctuary Clinic No3 The Square on 066 7185776 (Endermologie is currently on promotion where by you can buy 8 treatments for the price of 7!)

JOIN KERRY’S FRIENDLIEST CYCLING CLUB

The Chain Gang Cycling Club in Tralee has been bringing leisure cyclists together since 2008, and is one of the busiest cycling clubs in the county.

Now the club is hitting the road with a new programme to help riders of all levels to enjoy the benefits of riding safely in a group – and to bring their cycling to the next level.

And with the evenings getting longer and the 2016 cycling seaso n approaching, the launch of the new programme means now is the ideal time for new members to join Kerry’s friendliest cycling club. With the club’s new “Saddle up for Summer Cycling” programme, newcomers, late starters, returning riders, solo cyclists and even experienced bikers can be matched to a cycling group appropriate to their level and ability - and enjoy a variety of spins through some of Kerry’s most beautiful areas. Regular club spins on Saturday mornings and Thursday evenings will be organised into four groups, each led by an experienced club rider to guide and advise new group members. The route details for each group will be announced on Facebook ahead of the spin, so you can easily choose which group you plan to cycle with. Want to go faster or longer ? Step up a group. Feeling a little tired? No problem - drop down a group for a spin that’s easier on the legs. But the Chain Gang is also encouraging anyone new to cycling to become a member, and the club is organising a special Mentored Cycle on Sunday mornings, specially for newcomers to cycling or riders hoping to learn how to ride with a group. This group will learn from some of the club’s most experienced cyclists, and riders will develop the skills required to cycle safely as part of a group. The benefits of group cycling are well known: you’ll be fitter, go faster and longer and you’ll learn new riding and maintenance skills. And of course, you’ll have much more fun – with a refreshment stop being an integral part of each group cycle!

With many cyclists beginning to think of the longer evenings and summer cycles, the Chain Gang’s new initiative looks like the perfect way for cyclists to bring your cycling up a gear.

The Club will host an Information evening at the Meadowlands Hotel on Friday 19th January at 8pm, all are welcome.

KERRY FOOTBALLERS TO ‘ SHOW WHAT THEY GOT ‘ TO THE LADIES

Wednesday March 9th will see some of our footballers of Kerry hang up the boots for one night only and take to the catwalk to showcase the best of Spring Summer 2016 from top shops all over the county at the wonderful Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Leading names from the football field both men and women will model to raise funds for Ladies Football.

Breaking the Sound Barrier

WE CARE: Established independent family business with experienced Hearing Aid Audiologists

WE DELIVER: Local people choose us rst for FREE hearing tests, ear check and important hearing advice

WE PROMISE: To listen and look after you – providing only the very best hearing technology and lifetime aftercare

YOUR PLACE OR OURS? Fairies Cross Medical Centre Tralee or home appointments.

RECIPES

The Humble Leek !

While down the farmers market this past week I bought some lovely leeks and it got me thinking about this very under used vegetable . A delight in its own right. it is a forgotten vegetable and much under used, but here are a few dishes for this wonderful vegetable

LEEK SALAD

with Walnuts and sheep milk cheese

Leeks turn sweet and luscious simmered in salted water and dressed with a simple red wine vinaigrette heightens the flavor with fresh toasted walnuts and shavings of the firm farmstead sheep’s-milk cheese

INGREDIENTS

• 4 medium leeks, halved lengthwise

• 1 cup walnuts

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• Salt and freshly ground pepper

• 3 tablespoons minced chives

• 1 ounce firm sheep’s-milk cheese

1. 1 ounce firm sheep’s-milk cheese, such , shaved with a vegetable peeler.

2. Preheat the oven to 140°. Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the leek halves and simmer over moderately high heat until tender, 10 minutes. Drain the leeks and pat dry.

3. Spread the walnuts in a pie plate and bake for about 8 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool and coarsely chop.

4. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the leeks on a platter, cut sides up. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and garnish with the walnuts, chives and cheese. Serve

BEAN-AND-LEEK CASSOULET

In this luscious dish, the slow-cooked leeks with meaty porcini mushrooms and cranberry beans (a.k.a. borlotti or shell beans), which can be found fresh in early autumn and taste like chestnuts. The dish can easily be adapted for carnivores by adding bits of crispy bacon or that key cassoulet ingredient, duck confit

INGREDIENTS

• 2 1/4 pounds fresh cranberry beans, shelled (3 cups)

• sea salt

• 12 thyme sprigs, tied together with butcher’s string, plus 1 tablespoon chopped thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 1/2 ounce dried porcini mushrooms

• 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise and sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1/2 cup crème fraîche

• 1 tablespoon chopped marjoram

• Freshly ground pepper

• 1 cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1. In a large soup pot, cover the cranberry beans with 3 pints of cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of sea salt, the bundle of thyme sprigs and the bay leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook over moderate heat until the beans are tender, about 40 minutes. Drain the beans and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves

2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, pour 4 cups of boiling water over the dried porcini and let stand until the mushrooms are soft, about 15 minutes. Remove the mushrooms and squeeze them dry over the bowl; reserve the soaking liquid. Coarsely chop the mushrooms.

3. Preheat the oven to 160°. Position a rack in the top third of the oven. Slowly pour the mushroom soaking liquid into a large saucepan, discarding the last bit of gritty liquid. Add the porcini, leeks, butter and 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook over moderate heat until the leeks are very tender and the liquid has thickened slightly, about 35 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the crème fraîche, 2 teaspoons of the chopped thyme, 2 teaspoons of the chopped marjoram and the reserved beans. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.

4. In a small bowl, toss the panko with the olive oil and the remaining 1 teaspoon each of chopped thyme and marjoram; season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the panko over the beans. Bake for about 40 minutes, until the beans are bubbling and the panko is browned. Remove the cassoulet from the oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Spoon into warm bowls and serve

Let me know if you enjoyed them and we will continue our

and

COLLEGE OF PROGRESSIVE

The College of Progressive Education is now enrolling for the following part time evening courses in Tralee and Killarney:

• Special Needs Assistant QQI Level 5 & 6 commencing Tuesday 23rd February

• Healthcare Support Major Award QQI Level 5 commencing Monday 14th March

• Early Childcare and Education with Montessori QQI Level 6 commencing Tuesday 8th March

For more information contact Janet Lucas on 086 7904801/ 01-4884300, email jlucas@progressivecollege.com or check our website on www.progressivecollege.ie

EATING OUT IN TRALEE

Clounalour (opp the Train Station) Tralee

LAUGHTER ....THE BEST MEDICINE !

A COMPANY HIRE AN EFFICIENCY EXPERT AS A CONSULTANT

To everyone’s surprise, the presentation was very interesting. For once many felt like this was a valuable use of time! as the presenter finished up, he said, “I hope you have found use in my presentation today, but I would warn you, be careful about using these techniques at home. The other night I was watching as my wife did the dinner dishes, and noticed some inefficiency in her technique. Wanting to be helpful, I advised her of several small improvements that could add up to maximum efficiency.” One of the attendees raised their hand,”Did it work? Did the dishwashing become more efficient?” “Oh yes,” the consultant replied,”before my advice, my wife took 18 minutes to finish the dishes, now I do it in 12.”

A MAN JOINS AN ORDER OF MONKS

A man goes to join an order of monks.

The head Monk says to the man “This is a silent order. You will only be allowed to speak once, every 15 years.” The man says “Ok” and so begins his time with the silent order.

15 years pass and the man is sitting in the refectory when the head monk approaches and says to the man “It has been fifteen years. What would you like to say brother?”.

The man responds, “The porridge could do with a little more sugar.” The head monk nods in acknowledgement and walks away.

Another 15 years pass and the head monk finds the man in the dormitory and says “Brother, it has been another 15 years. What is it that you wish to say?”. “The bed sheets are a bit thin.” Replies the man. Again the head monk nods in acknowledgement. Yet another 15 years pass and the head monk sees the man and asks “15 years have passed. Have you anything to say?”.

“Well actually I’ve been thinking about it and I’m leaving the order. It’s not really for me.” says the man. “Yes, yes” sighs the head monk “I think that’s for the best. You’ve done nothing but bloody well complain since you got here.”

JOHN DIES AND HE MEETS SAINT PETER

Saint Peter: “You were indeed a good man. Come, I will walk you to Heaven.”

They started walking through a long hall. On the walls, there were lots and lots of watches. Curious, the man asks:

John: “What’s the deal with all these watches?”

Saint Peter: “You see, these are called lying watches. Everytime someone says a lie, the arms move. Look at this one for example. It belonged to Mother Teresa. Its arms never moved, not even once. We also have lying watches for every profession of mankind. Here are the lawyers’, engineers’, farmers’...”

John: “What about this empty spot?”

Saint Peter: “Oh, here it used to be the politicians’ watch.”

John: “What happened to it?”

Saint Peter: “Jesus uses it as a fan in his office.”

FALSE TEETH

A Pastor goes to the dentist for a set of false teeth. The first Sunday after he gets his new teeth, he talks for only eight minutes. The second Sunday, he talks for only ten minutes. The following Sunday, he talks for 2 hours and 48 minutes.

3-11-15 12.00 y St. , Tralee

The congregation had to mob him to get him down from the pulpit and they asked him what happened.

The Pastor explains the first Sunday his gums hurt so bad he couldn’t talk for more than 8 minutes. The second Sunday his gums hurt too much to talk for more than 10 minutes. But, the third Sunday, he put his wife’s’ teeth in by mistake and he couldn’t shut up.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE...

TRALEE LAUNCHES

IT’S

ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

THE 2016 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Tralee will be the most unique in the town’s history as the theme will be based around Tralee 800 – a celebration of the birthday of Kerry’s county capital. The Grand Marshall this year will be Special Olympics Gold Medal Winner, Brendan O’Connell, from Tralee. Hundreds of people are expected to take part in the parade and local community groups and organisations, as well as clubs, schools and businesses are invited to take part in what is always a fantastic day of celebration and entertainment.

The Chairman of the Tralee St Patrick’s Day Organising Committee, Johnnie Wall, said: “This year is a historic year in Tralee for a number of reasons – it’s our 800th anniversary, it’s the centenary of the 1916 Rising and our Rose of Tralee International Festiva l is being extended from five to seven days. The St Patrick’s Day Parade in Tralee - Ireland’s Best Large Tourism Town - is a fun occasion for all the family. In looking forward to welcoming back everyone who took part in last year’s showpiece, we hope to welcome some new participants. We are delighted to feature Brendan O’Connell as our Grand Marshall. He has, along with all the local Special Olympians, represented his town, county and country with dignity and pride.”

The parade will get underway at 12pm sharp on Thursday 17th March and will travel from John Joe Sheehy Road through Boherbee, onto Castle Street before finishing on Denny Street. Each participant will be given a slot number once all applications are received and the numbers will be displayed along the assembly area at the starting line on John Joe Sheehy Road. Prizes will be awarded in a number of categories on the day – Most Colourful, Most Entertaining and Most Topical/Current. The ente rtainment will continue in The Square throughout the afternoon with a Céilí and Traditional Music with Eileen Daly and Mike O’Shea followed by more live until late afternoon.

Johnnie Wall thanked Kerry County Council, Tralee Chamber Alliance, the St Patrick’s Day Committee, Publicans and the Volunteers who play a major role in ensuring that the spectators and participants will have a memorable day.

St Patrick’s Day Application forms are available from: Tralee C hamber Alliance, 18 Denny Street, Tralee as well as www.Tralee.ie, Tralee Town Hall, The Abbey Inn and the new Tralee St Patrick’s Day Facebook Page. The completed forms must be returned by Friday 4th March to eit her:

• Tralee Chamber Alliance, 18 Denny Street, Tralee or

• Kerry County Council Tralee Municipal District, Princes Quay, Tralee (former Tralee Town Council) or

• Email johnniewall@eircom.net

For more information, contact Johnnie Wall on 087 2335846.

BONGO TOM!

Bongo Tom Brett of St Brendan’s NS Blennerville, who gives a tune as An Tánaíste Joan Burton leader of the Labour Party on her arrival at the school on Tuesday

ST. BRENDAN’S NATIONAL SCHOOL WINNING STREAK

CONTINUES...

Congratulations to Shona and Clodagh on their recent win in the “Draw Your Life in Black and White” art competition, ran by Tama Farm Grown Solutions. Shona came third in her age group and scooped a €100 Easons voucher. Clodagh was aw arded a special commendation and received a €25 Easons voucher.

Congratulations to St. Brendan’s National School on their short listing in the Ocean Hero School Award. All their hard work and enthusiasm was acknowledged in a certificate of excellence award.

Danny Leane,John Drummey,Frank Hartnett,Sean Lyons,Johnny Wall and Michael Gaffney launching the St Patrick’s Day parade in the Square,Tralee

BRICKS N’ MORTAR...

EYRE SQUARE CENTRE TO UNDERGO €4M REVAMP

Work will begin early next month on a new €4 million retail development at Eyre Square Shopping Centre in Galway.Managing agent Lambert Smith Hampton says the existing entrance to the centre, which fronts on to Eyre Square, will be demolished to make way for seven retail units ranging in size from 12 to 195sq m (129 to 3,000sq ft).These units, expected to attract interest from retailers and restaurants, will be ready for handover to tenants later this year.Recent footfall figures suggest the centre attracts 189,000 visitors per week.

KEY MONEY OF €75,000 SOUGHT FOR MAGEE’S WICKLOW STREET SHOP

Men’s clothing retailer Magee is seeking key money of €75,000 for the leasehold interest in its shop at 28 Wicklow Street, Dublin 2. The Donegal-based fashion chain will relocate in March to South Anne Street where it is to rent a double-fronted shop previously occupied by Kitchen Complements.The Wicklow Street premises has 52sq m on the ground floor and 37sq m of retail space on the first floor. The four-storey over-basement building extends to 197 sq m and is rented at €75,000 a year.

IRISH LIFE TO SELL OFF CORK AND LIMERICK RETAIL LOCATIONS

Artist’s impression of the Eyre Square Shopping Centre in Galway following redevelopment.

The €9.5 million sale of Irish Life investment properties in Cork and Limerick includes two Patrick Street Cork units set for increased profile from next year, when the Capitol Cinema retail site is completed, bringing a strong anchor (Zara? H&M?) to this end of Patrick Street. Forming part of the eight properties-strong ’CLIC Portfolio’ with Downing Commercial are Nos 77 and 78 Patrick Street, let to fashion chain Coast and mobile company Meteor, with individual valuations of €1.75 million, and €1.275m.

The CLIC Portfolio holds the promise of an overall net initial yield of 9.1% (once unlet space in an office block at the University Technology Park is let), and is offered in one, or several lots. Given the mix of locations (Patrick Street, Cork, and Limerick’s Cruises Street and William Street,) mixed values, remaining terms on leases and the retail/office mix, it’s likely to get most traction in separate lots, it is understood, and will have an appeal to a very broad range of investors.

There has been strong occupier take-up in the prime retail locations recently by international retailers such as (in Cork) Superdry, Starbucks, TK Maxx, Holland & Barrett and Pandora.

“International occupiers are taking units in these prime high street locations and strong retail destination shopping streets before rents take off as a direct result of improving consumer demand and spend”

TORQUING CARS!

WHY GRIT THE ROADS WHEN YOU CAN HEAT THEM?

Heated road uses ‘conductive concrete’ to run a current through the road surface itself, and melt off any ice or snow Britain and Ireland are facing another cold snap this weekend, and if the forecast is correct, snow could affect journeys throughout the country, bringing out the gritters and snow ploughs and causing traffic misery for many. But an American professor could have an answer – and one which does away with the need for any heavy machinery at all. Chris Tuan, Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Nebraska, has been developing a heated road, which he says could not only save money on gritters and road salt, but also offer a more reliable way of clearing snow and ice. The heated road surface Tuan and his colleague, electrical engineer Lim Nguyen, have invented is made from conductive concrete – made my mixing ordinary concrete with electrically conductive elements which allow a low current to pass through. This enables the road to be heated to a high enough level that the snow and ice simply melt away, leaving bare concrete that’s suitable to be driven on safely. Tuan and Nguyen completed a five-year test of the concrete in 2008, on the Roca Spur Bridge in Nebraska. Since then, they’ve been working on perfecting the product, and are now working with the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) to trial the concrete for use on runways. Tuan says the current mix costs $300 per cubic yard (around £200), which is expensive compared with normal concrete, which costs $120 per cubic yard (around £80). However, he points out, the money saved on keeping the roads clear using traditional methods makes up for the cost difference; during the Roca Spur Bridge trial, the cost of powering the concrete through a three-day storm cost approximately $250 (£170) – considerably less than gritters and ploughs, and with the added advantage that the road remained clear permanently, rather than accruing snow which was then cleared away. The other advantage is that the reduction in use of salt and harsh chemicals to de-ice the road should mean that the concrete needs less maintenance, and therefore lasts longer. Tuan says he expects the trials with the FAA to yield positive results, and hopes that his conductive concrete may soon find a home on normal roads, too.

PENSIONER GETS £85,000+ PAYOUT AFTER PORSCHE DEALER SOLD ‘HIS’ CAR

Porsche Centre Bolton ordered to pay £35,000 in damages and at least £50,000 in legal fees to Kevin Hughes after selling the rare 911 GT3 RS 4.0 he’d ordered to another buyer A Porsche dealer has been ordered to pay more than £85,000 to a pensioner after it sold the rare sports car he had ordered to buyer further down the waiting list. 67-year-old Kevin Hughes ordered a Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 fromPorsche Centre Bolton, putting down a £10,000 deposit in order to secure the car. The model’s production was so limited that only 30 were allocated to the UK, and Mr Hughes was told that he would be “first in the queue” if the dealership was one of those chosen to receive one of the cars, according to the Manchester Evening News. Mr Hughes, the owner of a garage and classic car restoration centre specialising in Porsches, was later told that no cars had been allocated to the dealership, and his deposit was refunded. However, one example of the model had in fact been allocated to Porsche Centre Bolton - but was sold to another customer, further down the waiting list. Mr Hughes found out, and took the dealership to court. Initially, his claim was rejected at the Preston County Court, the judge stating that Mr Hughes had made only an “expression of interest” and had suffered no loss by not buying the car. But Mr Hughes took his case to the Court of Appeal, where three senior judges deemed it “as plain as a pikestaff” that he had had a legally binding contract with the dealership, and awarded him £35,000 in damages, an estimate of the difference between the price Mr Hughes would have paid for the car and the value of a similar car today.Mr Justice Cranston, sitting with Lord Justice Richards and Lady Justice Macur, added that Mr Hughes had done far more than merely “express an interest”, and that he should have been considered ahead of the buyer who had ended up with the car. Martin Budworth of King’s Chambers, Mr Hughes’s barrister, told Telegraph Cars: “I’m very pleased that Mr Hughes prevailed in the end. He said he always felt he was the victim of some shabby treatment and the bringing of the claim caused the dealership to admit an outright lie to him about its allocation.” Pendragon Sabre, the dealership’s parent company, has further been ordered to pay Mr Hughes’s legal fees of at least £50,000.

PRAYERS

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours, this time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your Heart where your Father sees it, then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. M.C.

M.C.

J. T.