Connect Lifestyle Magazine July 2020

‘Destination Kerry’ – Places to Visit. The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

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PLEASE TAKE ME JULY 2020

Mike o Donnell

Remembering the good ole days

Dr Susan Lawlor

Minding your mental health

GAVIN JAMES

On never giving up on his dreams FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE ....Made in Kerry, for Kerry

EDITOR'S NOTE Hi everyone, Its July and I don’t know about you but I certainly found June a little strange, businesses slowly beginning to open and return to the ‘new normal’ people beginning to be a little more willing to actually hold a conversation with you, and of course we all got to visit those loved ones we hadn’t seen for a while. Its good to see some sort of routine coming back into our lives but I guess as we drive on into the next phase it would be wrong of me not to say ‘please be careful and take it easy.. don’t be in a rush to undo all the good, keep the guidelines in your head as you go about things but establish a routine that involves doing things again, this is not going away so we have to learn to live alongside it and if we all take a little responsibility we can do this. We have lots for you to read this month, some great people had a chat with Marisa and she has lots to tell us, speaking of Marisa we must take a moment to remember her beautiful Nana who left this world in the last few weeks, thinking of all the family at this sad time RIP. We are all thinking about that break away after been locked indoors for so long, so we have compiled some suggestions for you, we have so much to offer in this great county it really is worth tripping around and taking things in. As always we have some wonderful advertisers included with the offers and services they have this month, and I want to take this opportunity to thank our advertisers who support me on a regular basis, you really are the back bone to our existence and we appreciate the support you give us, we hear many people say it over and over on our daily journey.. ‘support local’‘support your own’ but to those of you who practice it and support us each month we say thank you. Many people have asked to me over the past few weeks ‘ where do you distribute the magazine now all the hair and beauty and hotels are closed?’ so I guess I just want to clear up the myth that we are only delivered to these establishments, yes we deliver to them and we have missed them over the past few months, but we also deliver to over 300 newsagents, supermarkets and independent retailers all over the county on the first week of each month, so don’t fear you can get your monthly fix of Connect in all good shops around the county but be quick as we are snapped up very quickly. So go and enjoy this months issue hopefully in a little bit of sunshine, we look forward to doing it all over again next month. Stay safe and mind each other

Mags xx Editor: Margaret Kissane Print:  Kingdom Printers Graphic Design: Yevgen Kalynin For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie

Cystitis

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Cystitis tends to be more common in women than men and can also affect children. It is caused by a bacterial infection in the bladder and symptoms may include a frequent urge to urinate plus a burning sensation when passing urine. With cystitis or thrush there can be a whitish/yellow discharge – but this is more common with thrush, which is a yeast overgrowth. If symptoms are severe you should always consult with your GP to rule out a Kidney infection. Women who suffer from candida or food intolerances may be more prone to symptoms of cystitis. These types of infections are more likely to occur in a warm, moist, humid environment. It is also important to keep your immune system as strong as possible to help protect you from infection. Foods which you should try to avoid include: (especially for the first week or so of symptoms presenting) • Products which include sugar and yeast...especially cheese, malt vinegar, ketchups, soya sauce, pickled foods , breads and cakes, biscuits and pizza or any fizzy drinks. • Sugar in any form, including honey, maltose and so on. • High sugar fruits such as grapes, melons and bananas. • Foods which can be beneficial • Eat plenty of live, low fat yoghurt that contains friendly bacteria. • Pure CRANBERRY JUICE such as Biona (does not contain sugar). Cranberries are rich in hippuric acid which may help prevent bacteria clinging to the bladder walls. • Ensure you are drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily • Include bananas, apples, cherries, pineapples, papaya and pears in the diet. You can also use the frozen version for smoothies. • Eat more garlic and onions which are anti-bacterial. SOME REMEDIES/SUPPLEMENTS WHICH CAN HELP WITH CYSTITIS • Take 2 probiotic capsules daily with food for at least 6 weeks. • A daily shot of organic aloe vera juice such as ALOE PURA which has added cranberry. • Include a high strength multi-vitamin and mineral supplement • Oregano capsules have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. • The herbal tea GOLDENSEAL contains berberine, an alkaloid that inhibits bacteria from adhering to the wall of the bladder. Have one or two cups daily. • MULIT-GYN are a range of natural products which help with discomfort and sensitivity and are ideal for intimate care. You will find all of the above products in your local healthstore. If you would like more advice or information on Cystitis or any other health issue call instore and we will be happy to discuss this with you. Untill next time, Stay healthy Deirdre.

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GAVIN JAMES...

On never giving up on his dreams

By Marisa Reidy

classics, your brain develops a knowledge of where to go when you write a song yourself.

He is fast becoming one of Ireland’s biggest global musical exports, but despite his phenomenal rise to fame, singer songwriter Gavin James insists that simplicity is always his goal.

“A normal job was not for me. I worked at a solicitor’s office for three months and spent most of it staring at Facebook,” 28-yearold Gavin admits. “I was not great at school, so when I got to fourth, fifth and sixth year I stopped going. I used to get on my bike and cycle to Walton's music shop in Dublin instead. I had no other plans.”

“I finally met my manager and started to do my own headline shows. It took a long time, but if there were 10 people at a gig, 40 came to the next one, and so on. Another five years later and thousands of miles travelled around the world, I’m selling out shows in countries I never thought I would have ever got to. I would have been happy to spend the rest of my life doing pub gigs in Temple Bar, but musically it wasn’t changing so I started doing open mic nights up and down the country – and things took off from there.”

Born and bred in Dublin, Gavin says that he remembers being in locals pubs from the age of 13 and says it was there that he learned how to sing. And while his stunning music has now had over a billion global steams and he has supported such high profile acts as Sam Smyth, Niall Horan and Ed Sheeran, Gavin says his incredible rise to fame certainly did not happen overnight.

While Gavin grew up listening to everyone from Nirvana and The Beatles to Bob Dylan and Van Halen, he continues to draw very much on his own life experiences when writing. Everything from love to not fitting in, to his own personal experience of bullying have formed the basis of some of his most successful hits. Again, it’s all about simplicity for Gavin.

“I started playing in bands and started doing pub gigs in Temple Bar seven nights a week for about five years, and I was busking too. I added a few of my own songs and amazingly people started listening,” Gavin tells Connect. “I learned how to write from doing cover gigs, because when you play three hours’ worth of top 40 hits and Irish ballads and

“I have always loved song. Nirvana had great songs. Oasis had great songs. The Beatles had the greatest songs of all. And I don’t see a huge difference between the best rock bands and a pop artist, because they all have an ability to come up with songs that are simple without being boring. Simplicity is the goal.”

Still getting his head around the fact that just five years ago he was singing to small crowds in pubs in Temple Bar - but ended his 2020 world tour with another sell out show at the Dublin’s 3 Arena - Gavin tells Connect that he knew from a young age that a career in music was all he wanted.

He says he loves to write melodies that sound like they have always existed, but yet are entirely new – combined with lyrics that touch on familiar subjects ‘in ways that make them fresh all over again.’ For example, his hit song Always – which was written about a temporary breakup from his (current) girlfriend - is his favourite, he says, and was inspired by none other than musical genius Elton John. “Always is my favourite song because the words are broad

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Connect | Lifestyle enough to be about someone who has passed or someone you have split up with, and the melody is incredibly simple. I was listening to Elton John’s ‘Your Song’ and thinking how I wish I’d thought of it. Then it took me ten minutes to put four chords together, and I had Always.” Another song which has hit a chord with so many fans, is 22 - a powerful ballad on what it is like to be bullied. “Kids come up to me at shows, thanking me for writing 22, and they’re the same age as me when I was getting bullied,” he says. “I wrote 22 so that people can understand what it is like, because if someone like Bruce Springsteen had written a song about the terrible time he had at school it would have helped me get through it,” Gavin says. In recent years, James has enjoyed an incredible rise to fame, forming working and personal relationships and friendships with some of the worlds’ biggest stars including Sam Smyth, Niall Horan, James Cordon and even Ed Sheeran. Gavin first met Ed in 2015 in Dublin hotspot Whelan’s, but interestingly they got to know each other a little better during a lock-in at Doyle’s home to legendary acoustic music club the Ruby Sessions, where Ed Sheeran sat in on Gavin’s set. “At the lock in we were sharing songs, drinking whisky and getting hammered,” Gavin recalls. “Ed's a lovely fella and the furthest away from being a lazy songwriter. I learned from him by seeing the amount of work he puts in. He’ll write 300 songs to get to ten he’s pleased with.” Soon after their Dublin soiree, Ed invited Gavin to be a support act at his Croke Park stadium gig in front of 80,000 people. But despite clocking up over 100 million You Tube views and 10 million Shazam tags, Gavin remains extremely grounded and still loves to perform here at home. He even admits that despite all the fame, he still gets nervous heading out on stage and he can often feel lonely. “I still get nervous before any gig, big or small, it’s just part of my ritual,” he says. “And the hardest part is being away from my family and friends - so I’m really enjoying being home these last few months. “ Speaking of being at home, Gavin is set to return to Killarney’s INEC on August 8 for a very unique Drive-In gig as part of a mini tour around Ireland. With 6 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

all live performances ground to a halt due to Covid 19, Gavin believes that this is an interesting way for artists to ‘keep a foot in the door’ during what has been an extremely challenging time for the music industry “The Drive-In tour is going to be different. It’s obviously going to be different to having people right in front of me, so instead of getting people to sing along I’ll be getting them to beep their horns and stuff. I think the first one will either be the best new thing ever, or a bit of a rapid learning curve” Gavin tells Connect. “Gigs will be part of our lives again - cinema, festivals etc it’ll all be grand eventually, but for me right now, this seems like the only viable way for the industry to keep a foot in the door and start up slowly. I don’t think people understand that it’s thousands of people that can’t work at the moment in the live events industry, so I hope the drive in will help get things started.” As for coming back to perform for his Kerry fans in Killarney next month, Gavin says he can’t wait. “I love playing the INEC - what a great arena. The team and staff there are amazing and the audience is always up for the craic,” he says Right now, Gavin is currently enjoying yet even more amazing success with his latest single ‘Boxes’, in which he berates the old traditional Catholic approach to dealing with things. The main aim of the song, however, is to plead with people to never to give up and to follow their dreams - just like he did! “I went to an all boys’ school in Dublin where, if you wore the wrong shoes, you had to walk around in slippers all day,” he explains. “I was a bit mad at school. I wouldn’t even try a little bit, and for years I had people saying I couldn’t do anything – that it was too hard to make it in music and that I shouldn’t try. The message of this song is to not listen to anybody. Just listen to yourself and follow your dream.”

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Dr Susan Lawlor

minding your mental health

Susan’s career path began over 10 years ago while studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree, when she was particularly drawn to the sociology aspect of her course. It was, she says, her first real introduction to how people interact based on different environments within which they exist. By Marisa Reidy For over 10 years, Tralee woman Dr Susan Lawlor has been striving to improve the lives of those with mental health issues and working to ensure that those suffering are treated with dignity and respect. This incredible work has earned Susan several awards, including last year’s Connect Kerry Women in Business Community Champion Award and the prestigious Unsung Hero Award in association with Radio Kerry and Fexco. Last month, however, the co-founder of Ireland’s State of Mind organisation received her highest accolade to date when she was chosen as the winner of the individual’s category in the 2020 Mental Health Champions – a global awards initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, run by the World Dignity Project. Such incredible worldwide acclaim is something that Susan admits she never, ever could have dreamt of: “I was, and still am, totally shocked if I’m honest,” a humble Susan tells Connect. “Especially when something goes to a public vote and there are 17 or 18 countries involved, with so many phenomenal people, all h e l p i n g to raise awareness of mental health and end the stigma. So I never thought in a million years - in 10 million years if I’m honest - that I would win an award like that. I’m still waiting for someone to wake me up from the dream.”

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At the time, her late brother Dr Martin Lawlor was working as a psychiatric consultant working in the area of mental health and had started the charity CRSI – the Centre Recovery and Social Inclusion – and invited Susan to become involved. She duly jumped at the opportunity, revelling in the chance to work on a project where professionals and service users came together in the field of mental health. Through CRSI, Susan became more involved in researching not only people living with mental health conditions, but mental health experts. She was fascinated by their point of view of how best to approach the area with the idea of ensuring the person who’s living with the condition is treated with dignity and respect.

want to talk on a one to one basis there is also psycho therapeutic intervention services provided to them face to face or online. Through our interactive workshops we give the audience a voice and ensure that it’s their voice e that’s heard, so they learn from one another. We bring people’s lived experiences to groups.” A huge area of concern for Susan and her colleagues is the stigma that still surrounds mental health, and while she believes the conversation has improved, there is so much more work to do.

“While we as a society have attempted to be more open about it, I think it is still very much something that continues to be kept behind closed doors because to be perceived as different in society is not always welcome,” Susan said. “Conversations have improved, but how open are we really, in real life, to conversations relating to mental health? As a society we love the idea surrounding [talking about] it, and there has been an improvement, but how much, I honestly don’t know.”

Susan went on to further study, including a Masters degree, a Postgraduate in Counselling and Doctorate degree in Sociology, receiving the prestigious IRCHSS Scholarship as a result, and in 2013 her late brother again invited her to help set up the State of Mind charity her in Ireland, having seen the success of the organisation in the UK. Now, over six years later, Susan is carrying on her late brother’s vision working with a team of mental health professionals, service users, sports people, coaches and other community groups to improve mental health and working life of sports players and broader communities in Ireland. She also returned to education completing a Masters degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling. “State of Mind’s key concept is mental fitness by promotion of resilience, positive mental health, mindfulness and well being,” Susan explained. “It is evidence based. It’s not just generic psycho education lessons, it’s very bespoke. As well as our group work, if young people

So how do we change that? How do we end the stigma? “Genuinely, by opening up the conversation surrounding mental health. And I don’t think it’s enough for people to say that phrase ‘It’s ok not to be ok’. It’s very important to realise that people don’t always come forward if they are going though stressful situations, so it’s up to the community, each and every one of us, to step forward and recognise if something doesn’t seem right or ok with the people we’re surrounding ourselves

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Connect | Lifestyle with,” Susan says, “It’s exceptionally important to not just wait for someone to come forward and say they need help.

“Whether it’s your own mental health or someone else’s, the key is listen to your gut instinct. If something is off within yourself or within another person then you ask, you ask again and you keep asking. Because sometimes, when you ask if they’re ok they say ‘I’m fine’ –the most used word in the English language - but fine often equates to ‘no, I’m not ok..but I’m not really sure what to do... or maybe I’m afraid to say I’m not ok, or maybe I think I can cope with it myself but I can’t”. Because Susan works primarily with young people, she is passionate about their role in all of this. The current pandemic has seen a lot of stress and anxiety come to the fore and Susan insists that children, teens and parents have to work together – not just through Covid19m, but in life. “What we need to do is get young people to become more involved in these conversations. We need to actually understand that they do have a voice and it’s a voice that we need to hear. This pandemic has happened and it has caused a huge amount of stress to people of all ages but are we actually creating safe spaces for young people to come forward to talk about what’s happening and give their side of the story?” Susan asks. “And obviously, as adults and parents, we have to speak to them in a capacity that suits their age and temperament without causing alarm. “We don’t want to add to the chaos but it’s very important to start introducing conversations that are age appropriate to young people as early as possible. We need to ensure that they understand that it’s ok to talk about their mental health and their problems or even their sexuality, There is no need to keep anything a

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secret. There is nothing to be ashamed of.” Asked if she had advice for young people and parents currently suffering through this pandemic, Susan said that the key priority is to create a safe space to talk. “They should have the capacity to be able to share how they’re feeling. They should be able to be honest, have people around them who are supportive and open to listening to exactly what they have to say,” Susan insists. “It should also be ok for parents or adults to say ‘you know what, I don’t know the answer to this but let’s try to figure it out together’. “It’s always about the angle that you take. Yes there is the whole stress surrounding Covid 19 and there are the horror stories, but how about putting your focus on the heroes of all this – the healthcare workers and frontline workers - so that you’re not just having the conversation about this pandemic, but you’re showing them that there are solutions. That there are experts who can help people get better. It’s not always about looking at the negatives, but more about having an open honest conversation and weighing up all levels.”

going outside in the air, dancing, music, developing a new skill set. It doesn’t have to be stressful. Also teach them how to be compassionate, how to be kind, how to look out for other people – whether that’s talking to a neighbour or even leaving a pint of milk outside their door,” Susan explained. “You are the adult in their life – you are the main educator and role model. You are that one good adult in the person’s life to teach them that the most important thing in life is to be kind. But equally, let them know that they are loved and that no matter what they do, it is enough and it is good enough.” Susan insists that people should look at their mental health every single day. It’s a vital trio of mind, body and soul, she says, and each is as important as the other. “You should always be mindful of how you’re feeding your mind. From what you’re reading to what you’re exposing yourself to – be that the people around you or what you’re watching on social media etc. Ask yourself if this is positive or if it’s something that’s pulling you down. Every day we should be looking at how we feed our mind body and soul. Every day we should be living, not just existing, as that’s where the problems arise. “ Susan is available for group and one to on consultations through www.stateofmindireland.com

An active mind is also key to helping through any stressful situation, Susan explains: “It’s very important to keep their mind active while they are at home and I’m not saying you should be focussing on homework, per say. Set them goals each day that they can achieve – that can be colouring, being artistic, creative,

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HEALTH IS WEALTH Hi all Áine of AfitBody Gym here again to tackle all your questions in regards to exercise and wellness. I don’t think there has ever been a time when our, health, wellbeing and mindset has been so much to the forefront of our minds, it is consuming the news, the papers and general conversation. It has never been so apparent that your health is ACTUALLY your wealth!

Positive Attitude

In general, having a positive attitude means being optimistic about situations, interactions, and yourself. People with positive attitudes can remain hopeful and see the best even in difficult situations. To survive in times of stress, we need to ensure we maintain a positive mental attitude, see the good in things however small that may be. We can take daily steps to maintain and support a positive mental attitude - Start the day with a positive affirmation - Set yourself a small goal or task for the day - Focus on the good things and be grateful - Focus on the present - Try to seek out positive people who help build that positivity - Get at least 30 minutes fresh air

- And EAT WELL When I say eat well I don’t mean, comfort feeding, I mean eating nutrient dense foods, ensure you are getting those vital vitamins and minerals as well as good fats, carbohydrates and proteins. As well as its impact on short and long-term mental health, the evidence indicates that food plays an important contributing role in the development, management and prevention of specific mental health problems such as depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore as tempting as it is to reach for high calorie, high fat convenience or comfort foods, try even more so to limit intake. The more good nutritious food you eat the easier you are making it for your mind and body to remain positive and healthy with a strong and robust immune system

- Citrus Fruits - Broccoli - Poultry - Ginger & Garlic & Tumeric - Spinach - Yogurt - Green Tea - Almonds

Home Workout Fast & Effective 20 Minute Fat Burning Tabata

- Take a pair of Movements - Perform each movement alternatively - 20 seconds work 10 seconds rest - 8 Rounds – each movement should be performed 4 times - Rest 20 seconds and move to next pair Give yourself permission to be happy & fall in love with taking care of your mind body & spirit

Immune System:

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

- Eat a Diet Rich in Protein, for the average person aim for about 1.2-1.6 grams or protein per kilo of body weight, Protein is an essential tool in our immune system - Eat a diet rich in Vitamins and minerals - Try to get a good night’s sleep - Minimise Stress - Exercise regularly - Limit Alcohol

Info@connectpublications.ie

We can take simple steps to help boost our immune systems and stay strong

Experiment with Foods:

Our hero this month Chickpeas As a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fiber, chickpeas may offer a variety of health benefits, such as improving digestion, aiding weight management and reducing the risk of several diseases. Additionally, chickpeas are high in protein and make an excellent replacement for meat in vegetarian and vegan diets Chickpeas help to increase satiety, keep blood sugar levels stable, increase protection against disease and more. Chickpeas nutrition is a potent package of protein, vitamins and minerals, which is why they are often included in many healing diets

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Foods that boost the Immume system are:

A healthy & happy body starts with the choices you make each and every day Happy Training.. and Fueling Áine x

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Womens H ealth

SYMPTOMS YOU SHOULD NEVER IGNORE

Womens’ bodies experience change throughout all of their lives. You may notice patterns of change throughout a menstrual cycle, around the onset of menopause or after pregnancy. Women can often be so busy caring for families that they forget to watch out for anything unusual that is happening in their bodies. During these times of COVID people can be nervous about going to hospital or their GP to investigate unusual symptoms. So lets look at what might need investigating.

Itching

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can also occur in the genitals. Another condition called lichen sclerosus can cause extreme itch. Women with this condition get whitening of the skin and changes in appearance of their genitals. The condition can be easily managed with steroid creams. In a very small percentage of cases lichen sclerosus can develop into vulval cancer so it is important to recognise it. A simple outpatient biopsy will make the diagnosis.

Most women are aware of what is the normal pattern of their periods. We all think a normal menstrual cycle should be every 28 days; however, for some women it may be slightly shorter or longer. There are so many apps on smartphones now to help people “track” their cycle and this can be helpful to look at a pattern over a couple of months. What is not normal is for bleeding to be so severe that it causes flooding that soaks through clothing and requires changing sanitary protection more than every 3- 4 hours. Neither is it normal to have such severe pain that a girl or woman has gets no relief from regular pain relief such as paracetamol or neurofen and that lasts longer than 24-36 hours. It is not normal to have to taken time off school or work. Bleeding after sex (we call it post coital bleeding) that happens on a regular basis should be investigated. Reasons for post coital bleeding can include infection, abnormalities in the cervix which a simple gynae exam could exclude. Most importantly, any changes in bleeding pattern in women over 45 should always be investigated. In this age group the possibility of fibroids (enlargements of the muscle layer of the womb, polyps or abnormal thickening of the womb lining can occur. Cancer or pre-cancer always needs to be excluded. However, in most cases there will be nothing sinister and women will be reassured. Prolonged heavy bleeding can cause anaemia which will cause tiredness and exhaustion. Nowadays a detailed ultrasound scan is the first investigation that we carry out and an outpatient biopsy can be performed at the same time. The Mirena IUS is a very common treatment for heavy periods. Hysterectomy is rarely necessary.

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Suddenly developing an itch in the vulva (outside of the vagina) is often ignored by women. TV advertisements for treatments for thrush suggest that is the only cause of itching. In fact, allergic reactions to chemicals we use in our every day lives is a more likely cause. These could include soaps, washing powders, shaving products or sanitary products.

We check our breasts very month so why not our genitals. Buy a mirror and have a look regularly. This way you will know what your normal is and you will pick up any suspicious things early.

Take Home Messages

• Any persistent changes in the pattern of vaginal bleeding should be investigated. Modern gynae ultrasound can assess this. Early assessment can avoid more complex problems happening. • Vulval itching, burning or pain should always be investigation • Learn what is normal for you by looking every couple of months Our website www.scotiaclinic.ie has a new patient portal with regular updates on women’s health. We also keep people updated via Facebook. Take Care and Stay Safe

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Nora's Kitchen Recipes Keeping you slim for summer

Hoisin Chicken *suitable for freezing

26

MIN

Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (500g/17.5oz), sliced into bite size pieces 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 3 tbs of Hoisin Sauce* 1/4 cup (60 ml) of passata (crushed tomatoes) 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water Low cal cooking spray 3 spring onions, finely sliced salt and black pepper Serve with stir fried veg and boiled/steamed rice.

Preparation Mix together the garlic, hoisin sauce, passata and water

Salmon Curry in a Hurry Ingredients:

30

MIN

Low calorie cooking spray 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tbsp korma curry powder 400g can chopped tomatoes 300ml boiling vegetable stock Salt and freshly ground black pepper 500g skinless and boneless salmon fillet, cut into chunks 500g frozen broccoli florets Small handful of finely chopped fresh coriander

Preparation Spray a large non-stick frying pan with low calorie cooking spray and place over a high heat. Add the onions and garlic and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, then add the ginger and curry powder and stir-fry for 1 minute. Stir in the tomatoes and stock, bring to the boil and cook over a medium heat for 6-8 minutes. Season the salmon pieces and add to the pan along with the broccoli. Cook for 5 minutes or until the fish is cooked through. Remove from the heat, check the seasoning, scatter over the coriander and serve with boiled basmati rice.

Contact Nora: 087 2489838 www.norasslimmingworld.com

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Spray a frying pan over a medium high heat with cooking oil spray. Add the chicken and frying until lightly golden on all sides. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from pan and set aside. Add the sauce and bring to a boil, so that it reduces and thickens slightly. Add back in the chicken pieces and toss until nicely coated in the sauce and cooked through. Sprinkle with chopped spring onions and your choice of sides.

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wedding day moments...

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

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STAYCATION STAYCATION STAYCATION!!! Hi Everyone Having been confined for the past few months I’m sure ye are all chomping at the bit to get away for a few days.... or even a day trip. And now with the lifting of local travel restrictions in phase two there’s a surge in demand for hotels and B&B’s as staycation season looms. The tourist industry will reopen June 29th and will depend on a massive boost from Us to compensate for the loss of overseas revenue this year. With Kerry making the top 3 in the World Travel Website “Bucket List” destinations, beating iconic cities such as New York, Paris and Rome we are truly blessed to be Kerry Kin. I only really understood ( and appreciated) how lucky we are with our abundance of local beaches when my friends from overseas visited. Upon suggesting a day at the beach they enquired “ how many hours will it take us to get there?”. They simply couldn’t believe we had beaches galore on our doorsteps and still claim it to be the highlight of their holiday in Ireland. The Kingdom has something for everyone with so much to see and do. Here are a few choice picks for your appreciation staycation with lots to suit campers, hikers, romantics, families, cyclists and .... well everyone really.

THE RING OF KERRY- a 120 mile stretch of amazing coastal views and mystical land around the Iveragh Peninsula. Highlights include:Killarney National Park This is where the ring begins and what a start! Explore the park on foot ( it’s mainly flat), kayak, canoe... all whilst taking in the most breathtaking scenery. Keep an eye open for wild deer!!!

In the heart of the park is LADIES VIEW, one of Ireland’s best known panoramas such is it’s splendor. Here you will find a gift shop, cafe and bar for a welcome sos.

Torc Waterfall

Before leaving the National Park make a beeline for the waterfall. A steep(ish) climb up a set of steps give the best view and the 20 meter flow is mesmerizing.

Molls Gap

A mountain pass on the road from Kenmare to Killarney. This offers great views of the McGillycuddys Reeks , the country’s highest mountain range... the highest peak being Carrauntoohill. 18 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

Kenmare

There is soo much going on in Kenmare, I’d recommend you stop overnight to get the full experience. Highlights include Molly Gallivans Cottage and Farm- the cottage is 200 years old, the farm is complete with animals, fowl and traditional machinery. And there’s a dotey Molly’s Old Tea Shop for your cuppa. Nature lovers will adore Gleninchaquin Park, Old Kenmare Road and Reenagross Park and landmarks include Stone Circle, Cromwells Bridge and Beara Walk Way. K e n m a r e Bay hotel have great deals for you and your family and are the ideal location for your family break

Skellig Islands

Walk in the footsteps of Luke Skywalker on these uninhabited rocky islets and feel the force of the beauty assail you. Skellig Michael is famed for its well preserved Christian monastery reached by steep steps. Little Skellig is home to Ireland’s largest gannet colony.

Skellig Chocolate Factory

The views of the Skellig rocks are spectacular but all I can think of is CHOCOLATE!!! There’s daily free tasting sessions ( eek), a great cafe and a playground to entertain the kids whilst we pilfer the chocs. And while you are on the ring don’t forget to take in some wonderful distilleries Skellig Six 18 Caherciveen and McGills Brewery Waterville,

Rossbeigh Beach

This stunning blue flag beach is ideal for your staycation. There’s pony trekking, a playground and water sports aplenty. The nearby village of Glenbeigh is fab for a spot of lunch whilst admiring the views.

Glenbeg Caravan & Camping Park

Lying between the villages of Castlecove and Caherdaniel , fronted by a sheltered cove in Kenmare Bay, this park is simply amazing !!! It’s a perfect spot for families, hill walkers and just about anyone at all. The adjacent beach is a massive draw not only for water sports enthusiasts etc but also for the nearby O Carroll’s Cove Beach Bar and Restaurant.....right on the beach!!!! Ok we are heading to Dingle (An Daingean) next folks. Dingle Peninsulas Slea Head Drive is arguably home to some of the finest scenery in Ireland. 30 miles long Slea Head Drive is a

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Connect | Lifestyle loop drive that begins and ends in the village of Dingle.

Dingle - This gorgeous port town is home to a mecca of

restaurants, pubs, accommodation, aquariums etc and tourists flick there in their thousands every year such is its easy charm.

Slea Head Beach- Also known as Coumeenoole Beach , this is the most tranquil of spots. Beehive Huts-( clochàn as gaeilge) These adorn they Slea Head Drive dating back to the 12th century. The most popular and well preserved spot I’m told is Fahan. Blasket Islands ( Na Blascaodaì) Let your gaze veer off coast side near Slea Head Beach and you’ll spy the Blasket Islands. Uninhabited since the 1950’s you can still take the ferry from Dunquin and see where Peig lived.

Slea Head Itself ( Ceann Slèibhe)

This rocky cape is marked with a large white crucifix and the views are something to behold!

Ballyferriter Village- Stop for a bite in this tiny Gaeltacht village and soak up the local culture and atmosphere.

Dunquin Pier ( Cè Dūn Chaoin)

It’s all about the view guys! The pier winds dramatically around the cliffs as it reaches towards the sea.... enough said I think.

Tralee Bay Wetlands

This is a place I love to escape to on a regular basis. It’s a balanced mix of nature and activity and a fantastic place to walk around, let the kids play and then relax over lunch indoors or outdoors whilst taking in the view of the lake.

BALLYBUNION - This lovely seaside town boasts 2 of the worlds top golf courses and the most spectacular beaches. There are also walking, hiking and cycling trails and plenty bars, restaurants and trad music at night.

LISTOWEL- This is definitely the Write place for literary buffs with it being the hometown of John B Keane and Brendan Kennelly to name a few. Their stories are recounted in the towns Kerry Writers Musuem and the town also is known for its much attended Horse Racing Festivals. Giddy up guys. I am Seriously unable to list all the attributes and corners of our great county. A few other options worth mentioning in no particular order are these beauties:-

Sandy Feet Farm & Cafe, Camp

My little fella adored this fab place. Get up close and personal with alpacas, pygmy goats etc and enjoy the many facilities including a cafe, playground, tractor and trailer ride to name a few.

Crag Cave Castleisland

Ireland’s most exciting show cave with restaurants and fun for all the family.

Dingle Distillery Tour

Inch Beach

Stretching 4.5 miles down the Dingle Peninsula facing the Atlantic Ocean, Inch beach is renouned as a surfing and fishing go to place. Along the way on your Slea Head Drive you can browse the numerous pottery cum coffee shops. NORTH KERRY is another facet of our glorious county with a bountiful supply of blissful beaches, famous links and family fun to offer. TRALEE is the capital of Kerry and has so much amenities available:-

Kerry County Musuem has 5 galleries to

alike.

play areas that include Ireland’s highest climbing frame, mini go kart track, ball pools and 4 lane Astro slide.

explore and allow you to travel through the ages, perusing the everyday that made up the history of Kerry people. There are exhibitions and workshops on the go to please both adults and kids

For the kids the AQUA DOME and THE PLAYDIUM are a Godsend. The former is a day full of splashing fun and games, awash with waves, rapids, slides and whirlpools. The latter is Kerry’s largest indoor soft play center for kids, with 3 segregated 20 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

Enter into the heart of where it all happens and enjoy a tour of the entire product process complete with a gin/ vodka sample. Slainte gach dhuine!!

Kate Kearneys Cottage Killarney

Nestled at the heart of the world famous Gap of Dunloe this 150 year old bar and restaurant is the epitome of Irish hospitality.

Geokaun Mountain & Cliffs Valentia Island Drive to the top of Ireland’s highest point! So now, there you have it folks. We live in the most beautiful part of the country and are the envy of millions worldwide. So let’s get out there and start staycationing and enjoy our wonderful Kingdom.

Footnote- My own favorite spot in the whole of Kerry will always be Derrymore Strand. It’s where my Ashe side of the family hail and the backdrop of my childhood years where staycations were what we did every year Fanacht Sàbhailte Gach Dhuine Tonya xx

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Holiday options at home this year..

Our own county has so much to offer, beaches, wooded walks, parks and entertainment options for kids just to name a few, but I think the industry that can sometime get forgotten a little is the caravan and camping options, yes we all know someone who owns their own camper or has the mobile home parked in the facility, but are there other options to arrive and stay with the family to enjoy what the county as, we took a little trip and found some great services.

Wave Crest Caravan, Motor Home and Camping Wave Crest Caravan, Motor Home and Camping Park is a 4 star family-run waterfront site with unique panoramic sea views and offers the perfect base for a relaxing holiday with friendly and helpful staff. Located mid-way on the spectacular Ring of Kerry, Wave Crest makes the ideal base for either long or short stays and ideal for those touring the Wild Atlantic Way. We are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts (walking, cycling, sea sports). From Wave Crest the Kerry Kay covers a wide variety of terrain which includes the ‘Mass Path’, ‘The Old Butter Road’ and ‘Derrynane National Historic Park’ where Derrynane Blue Flag Beach is located adjacent to the Park. Boat, Wildlife and Angling tours can be arranged for you from Reception. You are spoilt for choice in South Kerry and you really should take the time to explore our beautiful unspoilt countryside. Kenmare Bay affords wonderful opportunities to see Seabirds including Gannets, Puffins, Shearwaters, Guillemots, Razor Bills, and our much-loved dolphins who are becoming a regular feature on the boat trips offered by Skellig Coast Discovery. A trip to the Bull Rock, or across the Bay for lunch in Killmacillogue or experience our coast and the wonderful wildlife from the sea with the very experienced skipper Des O’Shea of Skellig Coast Discovery at Wave Crest Caravan Park. There is nothing like a day spent on our beautiful blue flag Derrynane beach pristine with crystal clear water and the option of renting kayaks from Helen at Derrynane Sea Sports or enrolling your children in the wonderful camps she offers. Whatever you do in our beautiful county stay safe and have fun and contact us for any queries you have at info@wavecrestcaravanpark.ie

Woodlands Caravan and Camping park "Woodlands Park is a family run 4 star caravan and camping park located beside the Aqua Dome & Rose Hotel in Tralee. Nestled in a peaceful countryside setting and just a short walk from the centre of Tralee, our award winning park is the perfect place to enjoy a family camping holiday in Kerry. We cater for caravans, motorhomes and tents and have excellent facilities onsite such as a football field, games room, playground, table tennis, basketball, TV room and more. We are ideally situated to enjoy everything Kerry has to offer and we are happy to share our knowledge and help you plan wonderful days out in Dingle, Killarney and the Ring of Kerry. We are open from March to October. You can book your pitch online on our website www.kingdomcamping.com." but again please call and check availability before you make your journey. Tralee has lots to offer the tourist staying at Woodlands, The Aquadome, Tralee Bay Wetlands, Ballyseedy wood just to name a few. It’s a great way to spend a few days with family.

Green Acres Caravan Park Green Acres Caravan Park is an award winning family run business based in Aughacasla, Castleegreory, Co Kerry. The park opened in the early 1990’s. We are a 3- star caravan park which is located on the beach front. We have 16 pitches for our overnight visitors who have direct access to the beach. Each pitch has their own electricity hook up and water supply. On site the facilities include: toilets, showers, wash up area, an indoor eating area, laundry room, playground, games room and ball playing area. We are also within a 5 minute walk to a bar and restaurant and a 5 minute drive to the local village (Castlegregory). We have been nominated as finalists for the Irish Hospitality Awards 2020. In 2019, we were delighted to be awarded with the Best Caravan Park in Kerry in the Connect Hospitality Awards and also have received the Customer Excellence Award from Failte Ireland as well as being finalists in The Kerryman Business Awards 2018 for Best Family Business. Being a small park, our main aim is to ensure that all of our customers are well looked after during their stay with us. We really do hope all these facilities return to serve us all this season but please check with your chosen destination before you travel there for their opening times as with restrictions some may not be operating as normal 22 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

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Beauty Tips By Romy Romy Birdthistle, makeup hoarder, beauty enthusiast and owner of Paradise Beauty Tralee. With over 15 years in the beauty industry. I'm here to share my best tips and tricks when it comes to beauty makeup and skincare.

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24 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

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Hi once again to all our lovely readers. A new month, a new way of working. We have reopened and hand on heart it was a little strange in the first few hours, but we are blessed to have the loveliest of customers. The layout of the shop is slightly different and I am closer to the door and as I have always given my hugs freely, I have had to come up with another way of doing that but you will have to call to see what I mean..... Our Summer stock has just arrived and when I say it has all the colours of the rainbow I am not joking. We may not have many events per say to attend this summer due to restrictions but this certainly isn't a reason not to " smarten ourselves" as my Nanna Brick would say. A simple thing like throwing on a scarf can change a complete look and as we are allowed to visit family and friends now we need to be more conscious of looking good while doing that. I don’t think we need to say much more I am including some images here to give you a taste of what we have to offer but we do invite you to come and visit and see for yourselves, you will leave ‘That’s Perfect’ with that amazing feeling again I guarantee you, be patient as we have HSE Guidelines in place and while we don’t want to delay you on your shopping trip we want to ensure an enjoyable and most of all a safe experience for you. Keep smiling and be kind to each other Love Carmel

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Susan crean: How i got here

that struck a chord with me. When I look back now, I had no idea that I too would spend several years restoring millions of fractured teeth for distraught kids just like me!!! However, whenever they enter my surgery, I think back to that day and I try to ensure that the procedure is as pleasant and pain free as possible. A little kindness goes a long way!!

What was Secondary School like for you…

Dr Susan Crean has over 11 years’ experience working as a cosmetic dentist and aesthetic clinician. A Graduate of UCC, Susan has worked/studied/trained in a variety of countries and settings building up her expertise in specialist aesthetic, cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, oral surgery, implant ology and paediatric, sleep disorders, orthodontics and more. She is in the process of opening up a new practice in Tralee. When you meet her she is very passionate and enthusiastic about her career and really cares about her patients, read about how she got to where she is now…. Why Dentistry… I graduated in 2009 from University College Cork with an Honours Degree in Dentistry. The Journey to becoming a dentist was a long one and ironically commenced with a keen love of sports! The seed was sown at the tender age of 8 years old, after a horse riding accident when smashed my upper front teeth. I was distraught with images of being toothless for the rest of my days!! My Mum brought me to the local HSE clinic in Tralee where I met Dr Shanahan. I can now safely say this dentist had a huge impact on my future career choice – he was kind, calm and reassuring. He dried my tears and told me that no matter what happened my teeth would be restorable. This was all I needed. Some kind words and a comforting ear. That day he patched my teeth up and despite doing a really impressive job, it was his empathy 26 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

I had a very positive experience in Secondary School and found the teachers very supportive. I was quite shy and reserved and was probably a little embarrassed to show my knowledge, like so many people it wasn’t until I went to University that I came out of my shell. I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare and make a difference. I loved interacting with people but wasn’t sure if I wanted to be a dentist or a Vet. I was really focused in school with a keen interest in science and was always good at rationalizing and problem solving. I was very practical yet creative and still am. I think dentistry in a combination of art and science so if you are good at both you will go far in the profession.

What made you follow your career path….

I have been really fortunate to meet some amazing people along the way who influenced my Journey. I did work experience during the summer months with both a local Vet and a dentist when I was in secondary school. I really liked both jobs and felt as though I would have done well at either but the working hours with dentistry were a bit more sociable. I believe it is invaluable to get this experience/insight before you decide on your career path.

Did your family influence you?

My parents were instrumental in helping me to carve my future career. They always believed in me no matter what and for this I am eternally grateful. In life it is only as you get older that you truly appreciate how much they sacrifice. They were always supportive. I remember when

I was twelve, telling my dad, that I just wanted to be the same as everyone else. He told me I would always be different. I think he was right!!! I have always been different and always thought outside the box. But different isn’t necessarily bad. I believe our differences are what make us unique!! Although, they never advised me what career to follow, they did encourage me to work hard and to be the best you could be in whatever field you chose and to treat others with decency, respect and kindness. I think my upbringing gave me a really good work ethic, which is fundamental if you want to survive in business. I worked in the family business growing up, and often had 5am starts and worked long hours. No matter what you encounter in this life you should always remain true to yourself. Remember who you are and what you stand for and you will not lose sight of your path.

What typically does your job involve?

I love my job and always have done. Dentistry is not so much a job but a vocation. Most people are led to believe that the job is 9-5 pm. However, this is very far from the reality. Even if I`m not in the clinic, I`m normally treatment planning cases or organising something for the following day or procedure or checking in with patients to ensure their concerns are met. Very often, I might not finish until much later. However, that being said, I think it is important to strike a balance. Dentistry requires a lot of attention to detail with

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Connect | Lifestyle good motor skills and good hand to eye co-ordination. You need to have very good concentration. Therefore, it is important to take regular breaks as if you are tired you become complacent. It can also be quite demanding physically, lots of dentists suffer from neck, hand and back pain which is why regular exercise is so important. You need to have good interpersonal skills, for some patients visiting the dentist is very scary. So being able to put someone at ease is vitally important as well as having compassion and empathy. It is important to remember that you could be influencing someone’s perception of dentistry for the rest of their lives. No two days are the same in this industry.

can for them. As the saying goes if a job is worth doing, it is worth doing well. I`m not afraid to ask questions or get advice from those who I would consider more experienced in a particular area. I think it is more to do with thinking outside the box. However, no success is obtained without sheer hard work, commitment and determination.

What are you most proud of in your career… There are numerous things that I am so grateful for but it was the people and the experiences that I will remember the most…

Working in regional Australia in 2012 in

Is there anything you don’t like the Outback, I treated patients who lived about the job… in the bush and literally lived off the land. In my opinion, the Irish dental schools do an amazing job and Irish trained graduates are some of the best trained in Europe. However, the government’s focus should be on prevention and maintaining teeth rather than extracting teeth. The medical card scheme needs a complete overhaul. When a government scheme promotes extraction of teeth which could be restored and doesn’t promote oral hygiene and cleaning there is something radically wrong with the system. It is soul destroying and certainly not why I joined the profession. I would like to see the government step in and to provide some support to struggling dental practices especially now with the COVID-19 challenges and the costs of ensuring superior cross infection control standards.

Would you change any of your career decisions why?

Although the job can be quite challenging at times, particularly given the current economic climate, I love what I do. At the end of the day, it is all about customer satisfaction. When you complete full mouth restorations, or do smile designs for patients and travel that journey with them, where in most circumstances the outcome can be life changing. If you are helping to improve someone’s selfesteem and confidence then you are making a difference.

Why do you think you have such a successful career….

I think I`m always looking for ways to be better or looking for better techniques or improve my skillset. I care about the people I treat and I want to make sure that I do the best that I possibly 28 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

I have never experienced such gratitude from those with a really positive outlook on life. I also worked in the community and within the Irish prison service, provided Oral Surgery, it was a subtle reminder not to take anything in life for granted. Working in the both specialist hospital settings and private practice, I have diagnosed and treated patients with both skin and oral cancer. Most of these were early stage cancers and were unknown to the patients and their lives were saved. Awards/Nominations include…Colgate Caring Dentist Award 2019, the Women in Business Awards 2018, Winning the Connect Kerry Best Specialist Cosmetic Procedure Award 2019 and being a Finalist in the Irish Dentistry Awards 2020. recognising clinical excellence in younger dentists. I am proud to become a new practice owner in Tralee and excited to see what the future will hold.

What opportunities did your career afford you…

My career allowed me the opportunity to travel and see different countries but also different techniques. As they say, travel broadens the mind. I travelled to the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. It has also given me the opportunity to change peoples’ lives. I could not get better Job satisfaction.

Advice for those making career choices now…

Do your homework - Try to get as much experience as possible working or shadowing a dentist. It is a very practical job so you need to be both academic and have good manual dexterity. It is a profession which is constantly

developing and you are always learning new skills. Unfortunately even when you are qualified, it takes several years before these skills are fully developed. However, if you are willing to put in the hard work, it can be a very rewarding profession.

Advice for those waiting for leaving cert results or considering returning to college as mature students…

I would say that if you have the drive and ambition then you will succeed. Just believe in yourself. If it’s something that you really want, go for it. Sometimes mature students are better students as they are more focused and have already had the college experience. Personally, when I was a student we all worked together and helped each other. Each person, had something different to offer. I think successful people are those that are willing to recognise each person’s strengths and merits and use them for the greater good rather than becoming intimated/jealous of them. Fé mar a deireann said ”Ni neart a chur le chéile.”

Final words of inspiration..

Firstly, I would like to wish all the best of luck in their leaving cert. I know it is a very stressful time. However, you are not defined by your exam results. You need to decide what your strengths and talents are and then aim to make a career from them. If you don’t love what you do, you will never be successful. Some of the most successful people in life are those who carved their own path and didn’t follow the flock. Susan xx If you would like to tell us how you about your career path email Mary Lucey on MaryMLucey@gmail.com

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Taking a trip down memory lane with MIKE O’DONNELL By Marisa Reidy There’s probably nothing nicer than reliving old memories and revisiting areas and eras of your past that hold a special place in your heart. One man who has turned his love of his native Tralee into a wonderful new online adventure is Oakpark’s Mike O’Donnell, who you need only talk to for a matter of minutes to get a real sense of his love of his home town. When lockdown began, Mike decided to try his hand at sharing some of his most loved memories of Tralee and its gems by taking people on a virtual tour of the town – and is now reliving this through some truly wonderful videos on his Facebook page ‘Tralee Nostalgia’ and his own YouTube channel ‘Mike O’Donnell’s Tralee.’ Mike admits that when he started out with his camera phone in hand, he thought he’d be lucky if 10 or 15 people saw his videos, but his amateur project has resonated hugely not only with the people of Tralee, but as far as the UK, America and even Australia. “It all started when the lockdown happened really,” Mike explains. “I always had a passion for the town and I’ve always had an interest in storytelling and nostalgia, so they really started out as a nostalgic view of the town through my eyes and through my memory.

has never wanted to live anywhere elseMike has some wonderful memories of growing up in Tralee. Innocent times that seem a world away from the stresses and pressures of today. These memories often form the focus of his videos, he explained. “I grew up in the 50 and 60s and those were the years I was playing around, skipping with the girls out on the road or playing tennis or rounders in the front field – and so that’s the era I was dealing with,” he said. “But if I was in a place like where my wife came from – Basin View – I went down there and talked about that and us going out to the hops and things like that.” Embarrassingly, I had to ask Michael what a ‘hop’ was . Laughing at the generational gap, he duly explained: “They were discos, where they played records on a record player and we danced. A dance without a band, I suppose,” Mike recalled. “A lot of my friends would have met their wives and husbands at the local hops,” which he explained used to take place in the old CIE hall in Staughton’s Row and the TCLS building, across the road from the Dominican’s (where Oznam house is now). He laughs as he admits that he was never a good dancer and had ‘two left feet’ – but it didn’t stop him having a great time, nonetheless! He also has fond memories of ‘setting sail for America’ from Basin View as a child – in a bath! “The Basin was a place we played and swam and made rafts and sailed off to America,” he joked. “I did one video of that, when we found an old bath and dragged it all the way to The Basin and it was a story in itself. Just simple memories, stupid things if you like – but they just happen to resonate with people.”

“From there, it developed into touching on bits of history, where I could, so they’re really a walk down memory lane with bits of history thrown in. If there was history in the place and I happened to know about it I’d mention it.” Proudly declaring that he has lived in Riverside, Oakpark for 72 years – and 30 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

Another video that to Mike’s surprise hit a chord with one English man in particular, was his memories of train excursions to Fenit. “We would take train excursions to Fenit – and in one video I dealt with The Spa, Fenit and Oyster Hall areas. We used to cycle out and we swam in all those places . One

man in the UK messaged me to say he had seen the video and then googled all the places I had mentioned – so not only did I attract him to the story but I attracted him to Kerry.” When asked where his passion for Tralee and history came from, Mike explained that he used to host walking history tours of Tralee with Councillor Johnny Wall and he loved it! “We used do a humorous walks of the town and tell a bit of history, talking about things like the court house, the Church of Ireland, the railway station and we’d go into The Square and deal with the Abbey area – but we’d also throw in stories of characters who were around at the time and stories associated with these characters,” he said. “What I like to do with history is make it like you can have an after dinner talk about it – where you can sit back and relax and someone says, ‘do you remember such a thing?’ and then people have different bits and pieces of information about it. That’s the way I like to do it – I don’t like to do it in too much detail.” When it comes to the factual history of particular areas and buildings, Mike calls on historian and friend Sean Seosamh Ó Connchubhair to help him out. “Sean lives in Oakpark and would be far more of a historian that I would, so I’d usually refer to Sean to back up the few facts I’d have. It’s my nostalgia, but his history, and he has prompted me to do a few more things.” Asked what it is about Tralee that he loves so much, Mike didn’t hesitate for a second: “The people’” he said, passionately. “There’s

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no day you don’t meet some character down town with some story. Most of them are probably lies,” he jokes, “but they’re not told as lies, of course, they’re told as entertainment. When does a lie stop being a lie, you know? “I’m so fond of Tralee and I love walking down the town – there’s no place like it. If I won the Lotto in the morning, I’d buy an apartment over the Munster Warehouse (Sports Direct) and build a bay window so I could survey the whole town at my leisure.”

Given the economic downturn suffered by Tralee during Covid19, I asked Mike if there were any changes he would recommend or suggest. He says he’s always guarded when someone asks him that question. “I’m always slow to make suggestions

that affect businesses, you know? I’m always slow to give an opinion that affects other people more that it affects me, so it’s hard to say. But in saying that, I’m not afraid to make a suggestion if I truly think something might work and people shouldn’t be afraid to put forward their ideas either, because every now and again a gem comes up,” he said. The cancellation of The Rose of Tralee festival, of course, has cast a huge cloud over the town, but Mike is hoping to bring the story of the festival to life with a new video very soon. “Like everyone in Tralee, I was so disappointed to see the festival being cancelled, because there is a huge spin off from it and of course it is so sad for those involved who put so much work into it,” he said. “But that is one of our future videos. I will be working with Emma Hussey (whose parents own well known Hussey’s shop in town) and we will do The Rose of Tralee story tour in three parts, where I will be videoing and Emma giving the commentary.” Relishing his new found online fame following the success of his videos, Mike

said he is delighted to see that they have resonated with so many people.

“The reaction has been huge. I thought when I started if 10 or 15 people saw them I’d d be doing good, but Love Tralee posted one and it got 5,000 hits – that was a huge a reaction,” he said. “They’re watching it in America and Australia. When I put them up people share their own memories amongst themselves and that’s lovely too. I have people too who have never been to Tralee before, but Tralee looks well at the moment and people remark on what a lovely town it is. “It’s very amateurish so I’m surprised it has clicked the way it has. I’m still learning all the technical side of stuff but it’s great how people have reacted so far.”

TURN TO NATURE FOR HEALING Looking towards the future after what most people would describe as a challenging and unprecedented time. Ballyseedy Home & Garden Centre, Bernie Falvey talks to Kerry Connect about turning to nature for a healing approach. Research has shown that being around plants help improve memory attention, an increase in concentration and sparks creativity. In order to flourish, mother nature requires nourishment and care, if taking care of in the correct manner, the results will be so rewarding. From beautiful oranges, reds, yellows, pinks and blues, Geraniums, Begonias, Lavender and all outdoor annuals/perennials can add a pop of colour to any garden and are perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, and containers. No doubt the scent of certain plants e.g. Lavender, Nemesia and Dianthus, will lift any mood. We can also look at simple lifestyle tips to incorporate a sense of well-being into our daily routine. Why not, take some time to enjoy the company of your outdoor living, whether it be gardening, meditating, practising yoga, meandering through the garden or reading. To get the most out of outdoor plants, we must look after them as we would ourselves. Hydration, light and food are necessary fundamentals for growth, ensuring the plants are liquid fed on a regular basis. Buying a good quality plant and compost are essential when planting any plant. Nature has gifted the perfect seaweed-based feed to nourish our plants, which in turn will eliminate all pests and diseases. At Ballyseedy our recommendation is to feed and nourish rather than the use of spraying. The Garden and Lifestyle Centre is now open in Ballyseedy Tralee. Visit www.ballyseedy.ie and @ballyseedygarden on Social media. By Bernie Falvey 32 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

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C Kerry | July 2020 | 31 ConneCt onnect Kerry | July 2020 | 33

TARA ELLEN

Hello and welcome back to our monthly interiors tips here in Connect Kerry. We have all been through some unusual times lately, with us adjusting back to our new normals. One thing we will all be more familiar with than usual is our homes. For some, we have quite possibly spent more time in our homes than ever before. So we realise the importance of our surrounding environment.

interior design

This month I take a look at achieving calming schemes. Calm does not mean no pattern or colour. We can choose a neutral pallete for the walls and backdrop and add a blind or curtains in a subtle print or weave, paired with prints and plants or flowers. You can choose focal points with natural tones and materials to enhance the serenity of the space. Dried flowers are having their moment in the world of interiors at present, but not in the old fashioned pressed between pages of a book kind-of-way. As we become more ‘eco-friendly’ in our lives, as consumers we always have an eye out for the eco alternative, this includes an alternative to plastic and real flowers. Houseplants have become a key way to decorate and style the home. Whilst the trend for greenery in the home still has longevity, an appetite for dried flowers and grasses is growing. Not only do these arrangements look stunning on display, the bonus is that they retain their look and even get better with age.

Another great way of bringing colour and pattern in to your home of neutrals is with tiles. Below is a sample from Otto Tiles, these are a new range of cement tiles in some great monochrome colourways, showing a great example of sticking to a two-tone palette, giving you the freedom to go big and bold on pattern.

36 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020

www.taraellen.com 0877077433

34 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

BECOME A MEMBER TODAY

Sign up as a member of Connect Business Club and Connect with other business around the county. For details email margaret@connectpublications.ie

Connect Kerry | July 2020 | 35

Connect | Lifestyle

KERRY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL KIFF) OPENS SUBMISSIONS FOR THE 21ST EDITION, OCTOBER 2020. KIFF are delighted to

announce that the festival is planning to go ahead this year, 15 - 18 October 2020 and are now open for submissions.

Despite the ongoing challenges of COVID 19, the KIFF Board have liaised directly with various stakeholders, partners and government officials and they have made a positive decision to proceed with this dynamic film festival and to continue to provide a platform to showcase new and emerging talent in the film industry both nationally and internationally. In these uncertain times, it is impossible to predict exactly how the KIFF festival will be rolled out but a unanimous decision was made by the KIFF Board that KIFF 2020 will be taking place this October, with modifications being made in accordance with government protocol and guidelines. Depending on Government criteria and direction, KIFF 2020 will be presented either in the current format, if people are permitted to gather as normal, or alternatively as an online event. Chair of KIFF, Grace O’ Donnell said: ‘The Board and key stakeholders of KIFF have made the decision to go ahead with KIFF 2020 this October. In spite of the ongoing uncertainty in the current climate, we felt that it is important to proceed with the festival this year in order to remain positive and to showcase our support of film and the arts whilst also keeping the spirit of our festival alive’. KIFF 2020 will see Eibh Collins resume her position as Head of Programming. Formally the manager of IndieCork and Irish Film London, Eibh, as well as being Head of Programming for KIFF, is the short film programmer for the Oscar-qualifying Galway Film Fleadh and the Deputy Director for Irish Screen America. when asked what they are looking for, KIFF stated. 'Here at KIFF, we admire gutsy, original film-making. We look for brave talent that puts itself out there so that the audience are pulled in. It’s this exciting dynamic that we are aiming to nurture with our KIFF selections.'

36 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

Pearly Whites: Dr Marcas Mac Domhnaill Fáilte Romhaibh thar nais! During the recent lockdown due to Covid 19 dental services have been restricted and many practices were closed this has made home care and prevention more important than ever. In order to reduce the risk of developing cavities or toothache it is important to reduce the frequency and the amount of sugary snacks, particularly with all the extra baking that people may be doing at home! One tip is to eat a cube of cheese following a sweet treat which can help neutralise the acid which causes tooth decay, cheese also contains a protein called casein which can strengthen the enamel and help prevent cavities. Prevention is better than cure, therefore, ensure that you brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and consider investing in an electric toothbrush. Following a good toothbrushing technique and using interdental brushes to clean between the teeth where the toothbrush cannot get to, combined with a healthy diet will lead to improved oral and general health and reduce the risk of requiring emergency dental treatment. Now that dental practices are reopening, we are available to assess and treat any issues that may have arisen during the lockdown period and all services will be provided with the appropriate PPE and safety measures in place. Take care and stay safe! 49 Upper Rock Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry | (066) 712 1457 | www.macdomhnailldental.ie | fiacloir@gmail.com

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Connect | Lifestyle

Kerry Airport Introduces Enhanced Safety Measures As Flights Return To Normal

KERRY Airport Ireland has introduced enhanced measures to protect and ensure a smooth and safe passage for passengers who plan to return to the sky next month following the relaxation of Covid-19 travelling restrictions. All Ryanair routes to London, Manchester, Hahn, Berlin, Alicante, Faro will commence from or after July 1st while the twice daily Aer Lingus Regional Kerry-Dublin service, operated by Stobart Air, has continued to function throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Multiple hand sanitising stations have been installed along with specialised cleaning services for virus sanitation and improvements to public washrooms at Kerry Airport. Passengers must wear a face mask on entering the terminal and throughout their journey through the airport and on the aircraft. A limited stock of face masks will be available to purchase at the airport. Where possible, with the exception of children and those who require assistance, anyone accompanying passengers should drop off and say their farewells from the car park. In addition to personal safety, time will be of the essence when travelling on a flight out of Kerry due to the 2-metre social distancing guidelines. Passengers must allow additional time for their journey while factoring-in potentially longer queuing times. The experienced staff at Kerry Airport would welcome the cooperation of passengers to maintain a seamless transition from

check-in, through security and onto the aircraft. The CEO of Kerry Airport Ireland, John Mulhern, said: “We have remained open throughout the pandemic and in being proud to do so, we have facilitated the needs of the emergency air services who have required a landing base in Kerry. It’s time to get back to normal. We have invested in ensuring that passengers and our staff are safe from coronavirus. Kerry Airport continues to be an important strategic asset to County Kerry in strengthening transportation links both nationally and internationally. It will play a greater economic role than ever when attracting investment and tourists to the region.” Kerry Airport would like to convey their thanks and support to all those heroes on the frontline who have kept us safe, treat our sick, feed us and protect the lonely and isolated in our community. By staying open, Kerry Airport continues to light the runway as a beacon of hope for when we defeat the virus. The new measures reflect both Ireland’s national COVID-19 guidelines and the recent guidelines developed by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), to ensure the safe return of increased operations in Europe’s aviation sector following the unprecedented downturn in recent months. For up-to-the-minute information on flights to and from Kerry Airport, visit www.KerryAirport.ie and follow us on social media.

Revenue Tax Reliefs - Covid 19 By John Canty

The phased return to work is progressing well and most business are returning to the ‘new normal’. Below are some important Reliefs to be aware of.

Debt Collection All debt enforcement activities have been suspended until further notice.

Wage Subsidy Scheme This is available to assist employers in difficulty, to maintain their employees on payroll. Scheme has conditions which need to be complied with. It was extended to 31st August and may be available to employees rehired.

Debt Warehousing Certain tax liabilities during Covid 19 can be deferred for 12 months after business recommences trading.

Filing Tax Returns While Revenue have indicated that all taxpayers should continue to file tax returns on time where possible, no Surcharges on Corporation tax returns will be applied to late returns, during Covid period.

3 Denny Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry. T: 0667127802 M: 087 9431998 E: info@jcantyaccountants.ie www.jcantyaccountants.ie

Audit Interventions While some compliance activity is still been carried out electronically, there will be no on-site interventions or audits. Tax Clearance There will be no change to tax clearance status of taxpayers during Covid 19. Application for tax clearance can still be made online. 38 | Connect Kerry | July 2020

We are

OPEN FOR BUSINESS We are very happy to welcome you to Kerry Airport as we gradually return to normal. Now more than ever, passengers must arrive in plenty of time for their flight. We have a number of measures in place for travellers welfare i.e. multiple hand sanitising stations, specialised cleaning services for virus sanitation, improvements to public washrooms, screens, PPE. Passengers must wear a face mask on entering the terminal and throughout their journey through the airport and on the aircraft. *(A limited stock of face masks will be available to purchase at the airport) Only those travelling should enter the terminal, anyone not flying should not enter the check-in, departure or arrival areas at the airport. This advice is in line with the current EASA guidelines. *(Excluding children and those who need assistance)

Aer Lingus Regional Kerry-Dublin service (operated by Stobart Air) has continued without interruption Ryanair routes serving London (Luton & Stansted), Manchester, Frankfurt Hahn, Berlin, Alicante and Faro will commence from or after July 1st Please contact your airline for details of their Covid-19 preventative measures

Farranfore, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland. V93 KHF7 tel: (0)66 976 4644 | fax: (0)66 976 4134 | email: info@kerryairport.ie

Connect | Lifestyle

40 | Connect Kerry |Feb 2020