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Ciara Griffin talks World Cup dreams, teaching through a pandemic & her perfect lockdown wedding…

BUSINESS

International Women's Day RTE Journalist Katie Hannon: “I consider it a privilege to do the job I do”

EDITOR'S NOTE Hello everybody. Can you believe its March, as you know we aren’t printing at present but we are delighted to bring you this online issue. It’s to recognise some wonderful Kerry women both at home and abroad. We chat to Katie Hannon RTE Journalist and we also talk to Rugby Captain Ciara Griffin on life work and home. To mark International Women’s Day we also meet a selection of wonderful ladies from all over the county finding out about their businesses, we would always have done an event to mark the day but this year its got to be an online recognition, but we hope that next year we will all celebrate once again.. and we thank you all from the bottom of our heart for your support of this feature. It’s a tough time for everyone in business at present and indeed for everyone in the county, but hopefully we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel and we keep positive that in the months to come restrictions will be lifted and we will be able to move about again. Please do contact us if there is anything we can do to help you and your business and we will do our best to help and support you. We hope to resume print very soon when restrictions allow, as we rely on our advertisers to keep us going, when you are closed it affects us all. Stay strong and we will see the wheels of business turn again soon. Stay safe

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Print:  Kingdom Printers For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

RTE Journalist Katie Hannon: “I consider it a privilege to do the job I do”

By Marisa Reidy

WHILE many of us have somewhat of a choice to ‘switch off’ from what can often feel like the never ending negativity of Covid19 news, stats and case numbers, one woman who is, and has to be, very much switched on is RTE journalist, Katie Hannon. The Duagh native is front and centre of our media coverage through her regular TV appearances and, of course, her own radio Shows, Saturday with Katie Hannon and the Late Debate on Radio One. Katie tells Connect that news, current affairs and politics were always to the fore in her home in north Kerry, remembering how her dad would buy a newspaper if he passed a shop and everyone in the house was shushed when The News or programmes like Today Tonight were on the TV.

you would never have imagined back then, that a farmer’s daughter from north Kerry would grow up to be a writer.” Journalism, however, was ‘an obvious choice’ she says, despite not really having a clear plan for how she wanted that career to pan out. “I honestly had no idea what I wanted to do in terms of journalism. I didn’t know any journalists and didn’t know what I imagined it would be. I watched a lot of Lou Grant re-runs on the telly which was based in a newsroom in the States, so I didn’t have any strong concept of what it was other than that,” she joked. “We read the newspapers and of course I understood news and what it meant, but that was as far ahead as I thought. Saying that, I would never have thought of broadcasting. That was not at all in my sights. Journalism to me back then was writing.”

She admits, however, that she never had any real plans to work in the area of politics or current affairs, knowing only at a young age that she wanted to be ‘a journalist.’

Having made her decision to pursue the career she wanted, Katie applied for a course in what was then the School of Commerce in Rathmines. It was the only journalism course in Ireland at the time, so getting a place wasn’t going to be easy.

“I really liked English and debating in school and that’s what came easiest to me,” she tells Connect. “I was a ferocious reader from when I was very young and was getting good grades in English. I would have loved to be a writer – but

“I had a lovely career guidance teacher, but I remember when I said journalism to her she looked at me and said ‘but you would make a beautiful primary school teacher,” Katie recalls, laughing. “I said I was applying, regardless, and I

remembers her telling me not to be disappointed if I didn’t get in” But she did get in – alongside another well-known Kerry journalist, Deirdre Walsh, who was also in Katie’s class in Listowel at the time. A huge result for the young north Kerry women. “I was really delighted because it was notoriously difficult to get into. It was a very well thought of course because it was the only one, which meant you were pretty much guaranteed a job” After graduating, Katie began to work for RTE’s Aertel service but after four years in the job she decided it wasn’t exactly what she wanted to do, and so decided to leave. She began some freelance work with The Herald and worked her way up from social diarist to having her own column to colour writer, to eventually being appointed Political Correspondent – a job she admits she would never have dreamt of applying for had it not been for the backing of her then editor. “My editor came to me one day and said there was a political correspondent’s job coming up and I remember looking at him and saying, ‘what’s that got to do with me,’” she joked. “I went for it and got it, but would never had gone off my own bat. From there I became a political journalist, first with The Herald, then The Examiner, then to Ireland on Sunday and onto Prime Time. “I certainly hadn’t gone into the business with the aim of becoming a political correspondent, but once I started doing it I immediately loved it. I love it because it matters and these are stories that really have an impact on people’s lives. Stories with real consequences. That’s ultimately

what draws me to it.” Katie soon became a household name, working for RTE, and says the move to TV was perhaps not something of a natural progression, but more a challenge she purposely set her sights on. “I’ve been very lucky that I’ve been able to branch out and do my job from a broad perspective. It’s not purely what’s happening in government buildings, but more investigative stuff, which I love,” she said. “I’m not a planner, but in terms of TV, it was the one time in my life that I did something consciously. At the time Prime Time were doing some great work and making brilliant documentaries and I was looking at all this and thinking it would be amazing to do that work. So I did consciously focus and see if this is where I could land. I always think I’m so lucky and have been given so many amazing opportunities.” Next came the decision to deviate further again, with Katie eyeing up a chance to work in Radio. “I suppose I had to make a decision then. I was doing a little radio and while I was still working with Prime Time and the documentary unit I had to decide whether to come to radio more full time or stick with telly,” she explained. “It was a no-brainer for me really because once I got behind the microphone I really loved it. It was a move that would extremely fruitful for Katie, who now hosts two RTE radio shows - Saturday with Katie and the Late Debate, which was airing three nights a week pre-Level 5 Covid restrictions “I love it because It changes every week and you never know what’s coming at you. Yes, it’s daunting - I suppose and you wouldn’t want to think about it too much – but my approach is

to do as much homework as you can. That way, I’m in control of what I’m doing. Sure, when the mic goes live you’re potentially exposed, but I’m only really facilitating the discussion. The guests probably have a lot more to worry about than me.” Asked about the success she has had in her career and how proud that makes her feel, a humble Katie says she never thinks of it as success, but rather a privilege. “I don’t really think about it that way – I just feel I’m very lucky that I’ve done a lot of interesting things and have had the chance to meet all sorts of people and cover all sorts of stories and make a bit of an impact here and there. I don’t think of it as being successful. It’s a job I’m privileged to do.” So when not working and keeping up with the ins and outs of current affairs, politics and of course Covid19 – Katie, like all of us, is living it too. A mum to 10-year-old twin girls, Katie tries to see the positives in the current situation and tries to reinforce that in her children Although visits home to Kerry are of course off limits for now, Katie says that her family likes nothing more than spending their summers in Castlegregory. “When my parents were alive we came home a lot more, but every summer we spend a few weeks around Castlegregory and it’s very important for me that my kids feel that Kerryness in them,” she said. “The twins think Castlegregory is better than any foreign destination and sure that is fabulous.” While lockdown has been tough on the family, Katie says she feels luckier than most. “Yea, it’s tedious and there can be quite a lot of anxiety worrying about friends and family, but I’m conscious that we’re luckier than most,” she says. “Even the fact that the girls are twins they have a best friend to hang out with

and I can work from home a lot. I won’t say it’s been the best of times but I’m conscious that a lot of other people are struggling with proper problems.” Katie and the girls are loving spending so much time together and that’s something she is truly grateful for. “So we get out every day, that’s my thing – and if not, I insist we do something like a dance class off YouTube or something. But we have a great aul laugh when we get out,” she says. “We’ve chugged along. The girls see more of me than they ever have so that’s great. I found the first lockdown tougher, struggling with Seasaw apps etc and I was working on the Ireland on Call TV programme and doing some work for Drivetime, so we were fighting over laptops and iPads. But we’ve gotten into our groove now. So we’re keeping pretty positive and we do try and count our blessings. “Even that fact that a few months ago we had no vaccine and now no our biggest complaint is how fast we can roll it out. I do project forward to the autumn and to the time when we are all vaccinated. For example, my mother in law, got her first vaccine last week and that is just fantastic., She’s the only living grandparent so it’s amazing. So, I do look forward and hope that if we do crawl our way out of this we will have some better appreciation for all the things we took for granted.” Asked about some of the first things that will be on her agenda once we get through all this, Katie was refreshingly and hilariously - honest: “I want to head down home and spend a raucous night in John Bs,” she laughed. “Actually someone sent me a message from home a few days ago about something completely separate and said ‘we’re missing the pints in John B’s’ and I must admit I had flashbacks of some great nights there. So a night singing songs in John Bs is definitely on the cards.” We’ll drink to that!

Give Mum the Gift of Choice this

Mother’s Day

Purchase online www.therosehotel.com or call us 066 7199100 Gift Cards & e-vouchers can be used for any goods & services at The Rose Hotel & Serenity Spa Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co. Kerry. V92 HKA4.

Helen O'Sullivan Murphy O Sullivan’s Bakery I would like to wish all the women in Business sincere good wishes and a brighter end to 2021.

On behalf of the team in O Sullivan’s Bakery we want to thank each and every customer - shops, families & households for their support throughout the past challenging year. Like ourselves we have all adapted to our new norm and we have been extremely grateful that we continued to operate through this past year, especially thankful for the support from our customers who have all adapted their trading to ensure safety for all suppliers and customers to stores throughout the county.

We wish everyone good health and to all those who have been effected by COVID or other illnesses a swift recovery and our thoughts are with families who have lost loved ones. We hope the county of Kerry continues positively, supporting and prioritising safety for yourself, your familes, friends and neighbours. Helen & All the Team in O' Sullivans Bakery ....From our family to yours.....

We continue to provide a full range of products fresh each morning through the wonderful and dedicated team of bakers, slicers, and distributors. Our team of administrators are always here to answer any questions you may have and we always welcome suggestions. We hope to continue to fill the shelves of Kerry shops, supermarkets and cafes with fresh sliced pans, sodas, baps, rolls and our award winning bracks for many years to come. We look forward to welcoming back our customers who are currently closed once restrictions are eased, we understand how difficult this past year has been on you and we wish you all the best on reopening.

Mary Lucey Career Ahead

Launched on 1st September, Career Ahead offers unique bespoke educational and career services on a national basis. For those starting or changing their careers, or going for promotions, Career Ahead’s services: completion of application forms; updating online profiles; developing effective cvs, preparation for interview and provision of mock interviews are proving invaluable. Liaising with several national recruitment firms, also means Mary is continually informed of new/upcoming vacancies throughout a variety of sectors. Mary believes that, after completing the Leaving Certificate, many students are unprepared for the third level educational system causing major difficulties in college. One of her areas of expertise is helping students survive college. With her in-depth knowledge of third level, she has been able to intervene, advise and ensure 10

that students remain in college and a drop out statistic. Is it not just first year college students that require assistance and help, there are difficulties associated with each stage of progression right up until graduation that Mary helps students overcome. Career Ahead works also works with secondary school students and their parents. With leaving certificate students, they do not have adequate information or research completed when selecting what is the next best step for them after school Mary feels. “ I lay out every possible option so that they can make informed decisions that are right for each of them; students do not look at the non-CAO options as in PLC courses; apprenticeships and traineeships and in fact they may be a far more suitable next step for them. It is through lack of information and advice that they do not consider all these routes” said Mary. “I believe the key to success in college is to select a course to study that is of genuine interest to the student and to research the chosen course well in advance”. Mary Lucey Ph: 087 9338941 www.careerahead.ie https://www.facebook.com/yourcareerahead https://www.instagram.com/careerahead.ie/

MAura Sheehy Maura's Cottage Flowers The business was set up in June 2015 and it has grown steadily since then. Up to last March we specialised in wedding work and the hospitality contracts which disappeared overnight with Covid 19. We very quickly began to focus on local business. From everyday sweet posies, remembrance flowers, thinking of you flowers to bouquets for special occasions, I love to create relaxed, natural arrangements using native, wild and seasonal blooms handpicked from the garden, which are sure to bring a smile to each recipient.. Our mindful and creative use of flowers arranged to send a thoughtful sentiments to the recipient whoever it may be. The good news is that our local business has thrived in recent months, this is down to several factors Customers are now much more aware and conscious of the importance of supporting local suppliers, especially businesses like ours who endeavour to be eco friendly.

People are adjusting to spending much more time in their homes and like to brighten up their week by having fresh flowers, the pressure of working from home and home schooling have meant that people definitely are getting more comfortable buying flowers for themselves The biggest reason for growth in our flower business has to be down to people simply wanting to let their loved ones know how much they are missing them by sending flowers which always bring a smile and sometimes a tear or two, sometimes its for birthdays but mostly its just a message to say "I am thinking of you "and "I love you and look forward to being home again soon".

We have found that there are pockets of the county that have no floristry service available to meet these needs and this is why we are now delivering a local flower service in the following rural areas, The Dingle Peninsula, North Kerry, mid Kerry and Castleisland.

Services Offered

Seasonal bouquets and arrangements Bespoke flower designs Sympathy & Remembrance flowers Wedding flowers Events flowers Local deliveries DIY wedding flowers Weekly / Monthly / Yearly subscriptions Wholesale flowers Christmas wreaths and decorations Workshops & Demonstrations Free Consultation

Ph: 087 061 2622 www.maurascottageflowers.ie maura@maurascottageflowers.ie

"Always ready to give customers a warm welcome and a dining experience they will not forget." and passed away 7th April 2020. At that point I did not know how I was going to carry on, as Seamus and I were always there for each other, what one forgot the other one thought of.

I opened Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill, College street, Killarney, August 2019 with my partner and soul mate Seamus O’Connor, after successfully setting up and running Kitty O’Se’s Bar and Restaurant in Kinsale Co Cork in 2013.

There was lots of time for walks and reflections in the National Park and seeing the beauty in nature that surrounds us, and with great support from all the staff, family, and friends I gained the courage to” go it alone” and open the doors to Kitty’s both in Killarney and Kinsale. This is what Seamus would have wanted I know.

We saw an opportunity in Killarney to open a restaurant serving good food at affordable prices with a warm welcome for all our customers. It was instantly a success with both locals and visitors to Killarney. Kitty’s was nominated by Kerry Connect in November 2019 for the Best Newcomer in the hospitality awards and I can say it was a great achievement to win and a credit to all the staff for their tremendous dedication to Kitty’s.

Whilst the door in Killarney was closed the hard work continued and all staff were upskilled and trained in HACCAP and the highest hygiene standards to deliver scientifically validated standard of cleanliness and sanitation and Kitty’s obtained the “Hygiene Assured” certification from the food safety company based in cork.

March 17th, 2020 was a very different St Patrick Day, one that no one could have expected. The doors closed that night not knowing when we were going to open due to Covid 19. Never in a million years did I think Seamus would not be at my side to reopen the doors. Seamus contracted COVID-19 late March

29th June 2020 I opened the door to Kitty’s under new government guidelines with reduced table layout to one meter distance offering safe dining between customers. Kitty’s normally opens Seven days a week from 12 noon serving coffees, lunch, light snacks, and dinner from 5pm. Dinning in Kitty’s is all about the experience from the warm elegant ambience, the warm welcome offered by the staff and the great food we serve, customer satisfaction

is particularly important in Kitty’s whether you are a local or a visitor to Killarney, we want you to return. Each time Kitty’s opened we were remarkably busy with both locals and staycations I am delighted to say. Pooshal Kotowaroo my Head Chef, Kevin Tiernan my Manager, and I work very closely with our suppliers to select the finest quality produce, locally sourced where possible and have a relationship that we can guarantee to serve our customers the freshest from sea to land. Diners can enjoy fresh oysters, prawns the famous “seafood Tower” and

Kitty’s doors again, to the sound of people chatting, laughing and enjoying the dining experience that Kitty O’Se’s offers, and I look forward to seeing you all very soon. I stay strong because “my heart is filled with hope and determination for the future”. I was born to serve. Stay safe Eileen

our fabulous 30 day matured local steaks, diners’ favourite is the 8oz Fillet cooked on a stone. Kitty’s is licensed to serve wines and beers.

Since 29th June 2020 I have open and closed the door to Kitty’s many times due to government restrictions, which is awfully hard for staff, suppliers, and customers. Kitty’s doors remain closed at present due to level 5 restrictions and we are still awaiting instruction from the government as to a view of a reopening date, which will hopefully come sooner rather than later. COVID-19 has turned the world upside down in every walk of business really, but I really look forward to the day I can open

Aishling O'Leary Beauty Rooms Kenmare

I'm Aishling and I own The Beauty Rooms Kenmare, which is an award winning boutique style salon providing high end beauty treatments using premium quality products and exceptional results consistently. With the salon closed due to Covid 19 I needed to pivot my business I moved one of my main treatments online.. So I now am the ‘Virtual Facialist’, hosting online facial events for a growing tribe of women who are taking to doing their beauty treatments at home.. I post out facial kits that contain everything for the night to my customers and then a zoom link so we can all get together virtually and I go through a home facial step by step with everyone.. Answering questions, having fun and doing something different for a change... I do a guided meditation while the face mask is on to restore and rebalance and help women sit down and relax and feather their nest for awhile.. I'm so so looking forward to seeing all of my inspirational women that I miss so much from the salon and on this International Women's Day '21..... To all the strong inspirational women... May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them..!! Stay safe Aishling x

Lesley dennehy HairWorks Hair & Beauty Tralee

I dreamt of owning a hair & beauty salon from a very young age. I wrote a time capsule in first year of secondary school and opened it on the my graduation night in 6th year. One part read “ when I grow up I want to own a beauty salon”. In September 2017 I bought HairWorks. After gaining almost 11 years managerial experience working with a premium cosmetic brand. In 2016 I decided to venture out on my own renting a chair in HairWorks as a make up artist specialising in bridal and occasion make up, which was a success, giving me the stepping stone that I needed for the world of self employment. This was the most daunting experience in my career while being the most rewarding experience. In August 2017 an opportunity arose to buy HairWorks. With this being an established Salon previously ran by two well known local business woman I thought this was an opportunity not to be missed. With the help and support of my family, my dream came true! HairWorks grew from a hair salon, to a hair & beauty salon offering a wide range of treatments to woman. We now have a nail technician, a brow technician and a make up artists on site. Along with our experienced hair stylists. Although the business is facing difficult times at present it continues to grow. This time allowed me to reflect and plan for the future of HairWorks. It thought me not to dwell on situations out of our control but to learn from them and continue to work on what I’m passionate about. I am currently hosting an online make up course along with Vicky another make up artist in HairWorks for young girls aged 15-25 showing them different make up looks and techniques while giving them information on how to kick start their own

careers in the industry. In business it is important to help others along the way and support each other. HairWorks Hair & Beauty would certainly not be where it is today with out the tremendous team I have by my side. Every step of the way these girls have gone above and beyond. I am forever grateful to have them with me on this journey. I look forward to many more years in business with my team.

Linda O’Mahony Leadership360 Linda O' Mahony founder of Leadership360 is an Accredited Leadership Coach and Facilitator of Learning with Global Organisations working across Ireland, Europe and the US. Linda also works as an associate Program Facilitator for the Mindful Leader Academy.

Through her Programs and Leadership Coaching Linda supports clients to bring into awareness learned behaviours that derail clients from being as effective as they could be. Together they identify old beliefs and patterns of behaviour and overcome internal and external challenges to ignite and unleash the best version of them at home and work. Linda is passionate about understanding organisational and people cultures and behaviours which lead to her studying Transactional Analysis, Neuro Linguistic Programming and Organisational Culture Transformation. She works with Leadership Teams to create high performing and innovative cultures with a core focus on its people achieving personal and team excellence in performance, business success and career development.

Linda has a huge passion for supporting people to unleash and realise their full potential in life and work. She is involved in the design, delivery, facilitation of many corporate and organisation bespoke programs. Linda’s commitment to self-development and her authentic positive passion for her work is infectious and leads to transformational success for the individuals and teams she partners with. Linda has had huge success in the past twenty years building high performing individuals and teams resulting in them stretching to limits they would not have imagined! Her blended approach is one of honesty, positive challenge and fun.

Linda brings a unique blend of honesty, experience and infectious passion to everything she does. She has the ability to unlock, unleash and connect people and teams in a truly powerful manner. Linda is also guest lecturer and keynote speaker at events. She is passionate and experienced in delivering talks that inspire, educate and ignite action in the audience to support them in leading self, leading others and leading organisations.

Dr. Lawlor’s, State of Mind Ireland’s Mental Health Clinic

Connect Kerry Women in Business Community Champion Award and the prestigious Unsung Hero Award in association with Radio Kerry and Fexco. Last year, she received her highest accolade to date, as 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. Dr. Lawlor will be presenting her work in November at a Symposium at the World Mental Health Congress in London and will also receive her global award.

FOR over 13 years, Tralee woman Dr. Susan Mary Lawlor PhD, PgCouns., M.A. Couns&PsychTh, MA., BA, MNAPCP, 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. Dr. Lawlor is a Mental Health Consultant, Psychotherapist, Sociologist, Local, National and Global Community Champion Award Winner in mental health, Global presenter, Co-founder of State of Mind Ireland, and Founder of Áit Dhócais, Lecturer in Psychotherapy, Conceptualising Frameworks and Youth Work, Academic Supervisor, and delivers interactive workshops and presentations on mental fitness, to individuals on-line and in-person in varying business, educational and healthcare sectors. Dr. Lawlor graduated for the fifth time last year after completing a Masters (Hons) degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling where she attained a First-Class Hons degree along with a First-Class Hons in both of her final year projects and a First-Class Hons in her dissertation. In addition, she has attained several honour degrees and countless certificates and diplomas in the areas of mental health, general health, and business over the past two decades. The incredible work carried out by Dr. Lawlor has earned her several awards, including Special Recognition The Hero Awards in January 2021. The National Hero Awards celebrates Ireland’s everyday heroes and are in recognition of the kindness, strength, and fortitude by an every day hero. She also won 16

LEADERSHIP

Contact Linda on Email: linda@leadership360.ie Mobile: (0)353 87 8364412 Web : www.leadership360.ie

Dr. Lawlor’s, State of Mind Ireland’s Mental Health Clinic is based in Co. Kerry and Co. Cork and offers psychotherapy/ counselling to young people and adults in person or via the phone. You can contact her at (085) 7360994 or at stateofmindireland@yahoo.ie

Ciara O'Donnell PHOTOGRAPHY The fact that I am not a born and bred Kerrywoman has not stopped me from falling in love with Kerry, since setting up my business here in 2012. I turned to professional photography full time in 2010. I started out shooting events and family portraiture, and now my wedding photography business dominates my work output. I really do love working in the wedding industry and pride myself on the care and attention I give to all my couples. Establishing my unique style of documentary photography came naturally to me, as I came from many years experience in the Film industry as an art director while training as a photographer along the way. I can't imagine a better combination of experience and training to work in the world of weddings. I have gone from strength to strength here, and have big plans to expand this Summer and include many more features and services for my couples. 2022 & 2023 are already booking up fast as couples resign themselves to 2021 being interrupted again.

Laura O'Reilly Nutrition

“I consider myself a lucky man to have met Laura O’Reilly. I am over 3 stone lighter, gone from a 43inch waist to a 34, my diabetes is in remission and I am off blood pressure tabs!! Why? Because I sought the help of one of the best Nutritionists in the country” - Murt Murphy I strive to equip my clients with the knowledge, skills and motivation to take control of their own health - not just for now but for life! My purpose is to make this change as easy as possible by creating an individualised plan which is very tailored to a persons own lifestyle and specific needs, in order to achieve or maintain their desired weight and health goals. I have fantastic success in treating digestive issues, food intolerances and chronic disease such as obesity, type II diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. I offer a range of different options, both in-clinic or online, to suit all needs and budgets. I am a Registered Nutritionist and have worked in many areas of nutrition over the past 7 years such as a Nutrition Analyst, Nutrition Tutor and also in a private clinic in Cork specialising in treating patients with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type II diabetes. My services include: • 1:1 Consultations • Individualised Meal Plans • Food Sensitivity Testing • 8-Week Fully Monitored Programs 18

Confidence is high with couples as they focus on what they want and project to the future for their special day. In more recent years, I have branched out into the commercial world as a Content Creator for business. This has dominated my last year's work, due to Covid forcing weddings to move or be cancelled. Consulting with businesses to create a gallery of images that best represent their brand and ethos,has been great fun, creative and challenging but mostly very satisfying. I finished my new studio in Ballyheigue village in October 2020. Unable to have a launch party hasn't stopped me from working towards a great year's bookings. I am optimistic about the future and in 2022, I will celebrate 10 years in the Kingdom with one heck of a celebration.

• Group Talks / Webinars • Menu Analysis Laura O’Reilly Nutrition Gortatlea, Tralee, Co. Kerry Phone: 087-1310557 Email: lauraoreillynutrition@gmail.com Instagram / Facebook: lauraoreillynutrition

Fiona Kirby Kirbys Brogue Inn Kirby is a name renowned in Rock Street since 1978 when Fiona’s beloved Dad Bill and Mum Mary ensured it became a place to visit as a customer and leave as a friend. Many friendships, marriages and probably a few divorces too were forged at the Brogue. It has seen the town and its changes through the years, and indeed has undergone some changes itself through those years, one major one being the loss of Bill who passed away leaving behind a family who were determined to keep his dream alive, and who better to keep all that going than Bills daughter Fiona who has dedicated her life to keeping the Brogue the success it is known for. The busy mom juggles work and home, and with husband Kevin at her side they certainly are an amazing team. But like all teams Fiona has immense praise and pride in her dedicated team of 47 staff, whom she says are the heartbeat of the business. Using locally sourced products where at all possible, and supporting charity and sporting events The Brogue is a landmark for all occasions. Fiona has added MJ’s Diner in Clash Tralee to her business portfolio, and once again this is an amazing success. While Fiona has agreed that this past year has been trying to her and many other businesses she feels that we will all get through this and we will come out stronger and more focused for the experience. Her belief is that once we all get through this healthy, which is the important goal, we will all meet soon at the Bottom of the Rock to raise a glass and have a hug.

Mags & Liz Horgan Finesse Bridal Wear

Finesse Bridal Wear is owned by sisters Mags & Liz Horgan. We are celebrating 21 years in business this year, that is something that we are both very proud of. We have worked extremely hard over the years to bring the business to where it is. We are in a very privileged position as we are involved in a very special time in a Brides life. There is nothing that brings up more pleasure than seeing brides walking out the door having found the dress of their dreams. The past 12 months have without a doubt been a very challenging one for us. The wedding industry like so many others has taken a huge blow. Our hearts go out to all the brides that have been so disappointed in the last year having to reschedule weddings 2 & 3 times. At the moment we don't have a re-opening date but we do have a waiting list for appointments so feel free to contact us if you would like to be added to this list. For brides that have a short lead time to their weddings we do have a large range of dresses that can be purchased off the rail. If you have any questions you may want answered please feel free to contact us. We will look forward to welcoming you to Finesse when it is safe to do so, Liz & Mags.

Contact: Ph: 068 23943 www.finessebridalwear.com 20

Elaine Higgins Pure Beauty Pure Beauty is a heaven for beauty treatments in the heart of Dingle. The salon had its grand opening in May 2010 and has grown year on year since then. We were delighted to be awarded with The Salon Design award in 2019 and Skin Specialist of the Year in 2020 at the Connect Kerry awards. Our speciality? All things beauty but we are deeply passionate about skincare. We are proud stockists of the clinical skincare brand Image skincare and most recently Image MD - a prescription strength clinical skincare system to dramatically improve the appearance of the skin. In line with our advanced skincare offerings, we specialise in micro needling, chemical peels, and facials. We create a personalised, results driven, salon treatment plans as well as home care routines. The closure of our business due to COVID-19 forced me to kick into action and create a plan to keep my business afloat. I had products just sitting in the salon, so I created the Home Facial DIY kit. I was posting them all over the country. I then began to start putting my time into social media and my online business grew from there. In February I launched my brand-new website and online shop. With the help of Susan Kilcoyne from The Visionary Room we created an easy-to-use shopping experience. The website includes options to shop by skin concern making it easier for the shopper to know what would suit their skin. I also brought the Home Facial online – it is one of my favourite sections. There are several home facials my customers can choose from including facials for pregnant and breastfeeding moms, for problematic skin and so on. Customers can opt for a full size home facial kit allowing you to do your own home facial weekly or a mini size home facial kit that would give at least two home facials from. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my clients, old and new, for their continued support. Gail, Eimear and I look forward to welcoming you back to the salon where we will have a safe and happy experience for all our customers. I have created a 10% discount code for the Connect readers to use on our online shop using the code CONNECT10. If you would like to book an online consultation or if you have any questions you can find us on Instagram and Facebook @purebeautydingle, by email purebeautysalondingle@gmail.com or by call/text 0870921480.

Marie Baker Ballybeg Hair and Beauty Tralee. I opened Ballybeg Hair and Beauty 13 years ago, I took the golden opportunity as we felt it was a very big catchment area with no salon, we are located just outside the town centre and the option of parking etc has been a huge benefit. I have never looked back with any regrets, like all things it took time to build, it took a lot of hard work , but it is now a well established salon, a salon where people arrive as clients but leave as friends, if I counted how many clients I shampooed through the years…. my hands tell the story !!! but I would do it all again, I have fantastic staff both in the hair and beauty department and it is testament to them that ballybeg is where it is today, 2020 was unfortunately a hard year for all business and 2021 will be much of the same really. But positive thinking will bring us through and we will reap the rewards again in the near future, we look forward to seeing you all very soon Tada gan iarracht

Monica Walsh

& Selina

O'Connor

The Leaf & Larder Delicatessen and Bakery

The Leaf & Larder Delicatessen and Bakery opened its doors on the 4th Dec 2020. After years of dreaming and scheming it finally became a reality for sisters Selina O Connor and Monica Walsh. Selina, who has an existing business (Selina’s cakes for all occasions) found herself with no work in March 2020 when the country went into its first lockdown. Monica, who was on maternity leave at the time felt she needed a change of career and so decided to take the chance and make the leap into self-employment. Both Selina and Monica knew from the outset the vision for the Leaf & Larder and how this would look. “We knew we wanted to create something welcoming and wholesome for our customers. COVID-19 restrictions mean we can only offer takeaway service for now but we are looking ahead and planning on how to make our space a comfortable place for our customers once restriction have eased”. Working with local food producers as much as possible is very important to both as well as having home baked breads, sandwich’s, fresh salads, cakes, along with many other sweet and savoury options. Selina continues to operate her cake business as people are still keen to celebrate any occasion at present even if the 22

celebration is not the same, and what better way to do that than with some delicious cake! The Leaf and Larder is open Tuesday – Saturday from 10am – 4pm. Customers can order food online for collection on www. leafandlarderkillorglin.com or can place an order over the phone on 0669790760. For any wedding or occasion cake enquires please see www. selinascakes.com or phone 0669790760/0876196676 Check us out on Instagram and Facebook @ leafandlarderkillorglin

SiobháAán Rivas May Partner at PSC Accountants & Advisors, Siobhán’s aim is to be there to assist you while you grow your business. PSC Accountants & Advisors have approximately 50 professional staff across 3 offices, 25 of which are women. In March 2020, I joined the partnership team having being part of the practice since 2004. What drives me is being there for our clients. In the current pandemic, it is critical to have your accountant by your side, to guide and assist you. In PSC, we are a team who believes in each other and in our clients and we always work with the client’s best interest at heart. This mindset ensures that we can deliver an excellent service for our clients which is personal, professional, and timely. I am a very positive and proactive person, and I am always looking to simplify processes to ensure that my clients get the most out of their business. This approach is replicated across the team. Our job as accountants is to look after your financial needs and be there for you and this is at the forefront of everything we do. Being a partner here in PSC has been one of my career goals but I would not be here without my clients and the strength of the team that surrounds me both personally and professionally. I do not see myself as a woman in business, I see myself as part of a team, striving to do the best we can for our clients always and to empower and grow together. Contact details: srivasmay@psc.ie

Laura Hartnett Design

My name is Laura Hartnett and I am a graphic designer based near Tralee, Co.Kerry. I qualified from Cork Institute of Technology in 2006 and have been working in the industry ever since. In June 2018 I set up Laura Hartnett Design, I have gradually grown my business since then and I am delighted to work with a wide variety of lovely clients, no job is too big or too small. I design everything from bespoke 3D frames for every occasion, to books, brochures or signage for corporate clients and everything in between. I think the personal touch is very important in business, I like to get to know my clients and build up a good working relationship. I also love helping new businesses get started and I think it is so important to help them get their brand right from the very beginning from print materials to their presence on social media. 24

Everyone is going through a tough time with Covid 19 at the moment, both personally and professionally, but with each other's support we will get through it and all come out the other side stronger together. Thank you to all my clients who have supported me over the last few years, your support is very much appreciated. I look forward to continuing to work with everyone and also welcome new clients. If anyone would like any further information I can be contacted on 087 9456 911, laurahartnettdesign@gmail.com or I can also be found on facebook, twitter or instagram @ LauraHartnettDesign. Thanks so much, Best wishes, Laura.

Carmel Russell Thats Perfect

My name is Carmel and I have been in retail 35 years on the 14th April. I started working as Paul Hanrahans secretary in Eclat Leathers a factory making leather goods, at that time Paul had a chain of Accessory Shops called Razzle Dazzle and I would do the odd day to cover holidays or if one of the girls were unwell. When the factory closed down in the 80s I was lucky enough to be offered a chance to manage Razzle Dazzle Tralee and the that is where my love for retail began. Since I started there things have changed so much but one thing that has never ever wanted and that is our very loyal customer. In 2011 Razzle Dazzle ceased to be and That's Perfect was born and we have hopefully lived up to our name of giving a " Perfect" service. No one could have been prepared for what 2020 threw up and I would be only fooling myself if I was to say there were more than a few sleepless nights, wondering what was in store for the accessory business, no weddings, no ladies day, no Connect Kerry Events, but we knuckled down and reinvented ourselves as one of the go to shops for Masks, and got our website up and running www.thatsperfect.ie

Emma Quirke Hair

Emma Quirke a native of Tralee. Since childhood Emma has always dreamt of becoming a hairdresser and being successful within her career path including having her own salon someday. Emma got this opportunity when she just turned 17 she was awarded a scholarship with Bellissimo Hair Academy in Limerick. Since then Emma moved home and has gone on to work and achieve a lot in her career and has pushed herself always that extra mile. Emma has worked with the biggest of names within the county. In 2014 Emma took the plunge and decided it was time she would go working for herself and that's exactly what she has done since. Emma is continuously educating herself from colour, cutting, up styling and new services as she feels when in the hair industry there is always something new to be learnt and you can never sit back always have to keep yourself on top especially for all the clients coming through our doors everyone always wants something new and without the drive and passion Emma has within the hair industry she always strives to achieve high and the best. In January 2016 Emma was fortunate to get the opportunity to study both her Chemical and Colour Masters Degree and later receiving a Distinction award in this. Emma's business excelled itself after this and then she knew the time was right to eventually set up the life long dream of having her own premises and her name over a door. So on the 23rd of November 2016 Emma opened her doors to the public with her first salon and now Emma has a very successful business on her hands. In 2017 Emma was successful enough to Win a Judges Choice Award ``ONE TO WATCH IN HAIR" with Connect Hair & Beauty Awards. In 2019 Emma won another Judges Choice Award ``OVERALL HAIR INDIVIDUAL” with Connect Kerry Hair & Beauty Awards and also was Awarded Runner - Up Wedding Hair Stylist Of The Year 2019 with Brides 26

Of Kerry and has furthered her study since with her Advanced Masters Degree in Colour and Chemical!! In 2019 Emma Quirke Hair was lucky enough to be one of few salons selected in the country to study her Business Masters under the watchful eye of “Alan Austin Smith The Fantastic Hairdresser”. In 2020 Emma was delighted to be asked to judge Connect Kerry Hair & Beauty Awards. 2021 sees Emma now take on the role of Mentor within her salon for the newly formed National Hairdressing Apprenticeship Programme. This is the first nationally recognised apprenticeship in Ireland. Emma would like to take this opportunity to thank all her fabulous clients and customers who have walked through the doors of “Emma Quirke Hair” in making it a very successful business over the last 4 and a half years. Contact Ph: 066 7129602 www.emmaquirkehair.com

Cara Moriarty MCM Therapies

Firstly I would like to thank all my Patients for their custom over the past 8 years of business. I can’t believe it is nearly a year ago that I closed (what I thought was temporary at the time) my Clinic space in 18 Ashe Street, Tralee. What a year it has been! I could sense the trauma that everyone was going through due to the uncertainty that COVID was bringing with it last March and I sprang into action as quickly as I could by offering daily free live guided meditations to help calm people’s Nervous Systems. I also upskilled and moved my business online so that I could help more people from all over the World. At the moment I work exclusively online after recognising the opportunity to help and reach more people from all over the World in this time of crisis. In 2020 I also founded a few more branches to my original business MCM Therapies. Whilst still offering 1:1 treatments, I have expanded my services to group work as a way of helping more people. Throughout my time as a Therapist, I have found the balance of running my own business along with having a family. I set up Cara MCM in 2020, a Sister branch of MCM Therapies with the aim of helping other Therapists by supporting and empowering them to find the balance in their life too, especially during our current times. I also Co-Founded The Polytherapists which is for everyone who would like to participate in group work that will guide you to uncovering your root traumas and empowering you to release old patterns

that are holding you back in life. It is extremely powerful and live changing work. I also have many exciting plans in the pipeline, to keep up to date with these follow MCM Therapies, Cara MCM and The Polytherapists on social media. If you feel that you need support at this time feel free to contact me on cara@mcmtherapies.com and we will arrange a time to have a chat about how I can help you.

Free Business Review & Coaching Call Worth €495 To The First 5 People To Email Helen... Helen Burns is a franchise partner with ActionCOACH Business Coaching, the number one business coaching firm globally. Helen is their leading female coach in Ireland and a highly experienced entrepreneur, winning multiple global and national awards for her work with clients over the last 15 years. With 4 delightful sons, a wonderful husband and a love for the outdoors, Helen means business and is the embodiment of positivity, strength and drive that makes a successful entrepreneur. Helen is an advocate for women in business and one of the most awarded female business coaches in Ireland. To celebrate and support female entrepreneurship Helen has an amazing offer for Connect readers: The first 5 female led businesses to email Helen with the subject Connect 0321, will be given a complimentary coaching session and business review worth €495. This review will be with Helen personally to take a deep dive into your business and understand where you can make serious gains, right now. Your review with Helen is a tried and tested method with thousands of businesses globally and will enable you to plan and visualise your future, reduce stress and gain control over your next steps.

Email helenburns@actioncoach.com now and use Connect 0321 in the subject to claim your FREE business review

Nora Butler Nora's Slimming World

My name is Nora Butler and for the last 5 years, I’ve worked with Slimming World as a consultant. Slimming World is Ireland’s favourite way to lose weight without feeling deprived, miserable and is a very generous flexible plan. Healthy eating is one thing and we can all admit to ‘dieting’ in the past to shed a few lbs. But I had more than a few lbs to lose, and that was the thing that excited me as a member was the support. Changing lifelong habits and also changing toxic nutritional beliefs that certain foods or food groups were the reason I had gained so much weight. In retrospect how could it not have been the sugary drinks, crisps, chocolate bars and takeaways! It was an eye-opener for me as to what I was consuming. I now still enjoy these foods but in moderation, I also encourage members to eat a balanced healthy diet full of healthy grains, pulses, essential fats, fibre and proteins

its a great space. The new and improved Slimming World app has a barcode scanner and a planner feature which is helping members give themselves so much more structure with their day. And our Slimming World website has 1000’s of recipes and support features available 24/7 to members. Members also receive a daily Whatsapp broadcast message of support, motivation, a recipe, a podcast link to keep them going on a daily basis too. We are open we are here for you, don’t put your life on hold waiting for normality to resume. Get back to you, get back to your health and we are here to support you every step of the way. For joining offers and any other information please contact Nora 087-2489838 or email norabtralee@gmail.com

Having lost just over 5 stone in weight with food optimising I love cooking up a storm in the kitchen making slim friendly versions of the dishes that I indulged in as takeaway items. You don’t need to be a master chef to food optimise it can be very straightforward and as simple as a member would like it to be. We offer huge support to our members with weekly group meetings via zoom platform, members weigh in at home and submit weight via app. We have a private facebook group that is hopping with recipe ideas, little competitions, steps challenges, activity challenges, we celebrate successes and we rally around when someone is having a tough time

Tara Donoghue Photography

As a busy photographer who specialises in weddings, our days were full of beautiful things, beaming people and lots of laughter. Then a year ago the world turned our lives upside down and so many of us have had to re-invent ourselves and our businesses. We had to analyse our daily habits and learn a new way to be in the world. As I watched so many businesses enter 'survival' mode, I made the decision to start fresh. I didn’t want to put the cameras away and let them gather dust. I felt it was important to capture life with my family daily, while I was learning new skills in film making at the same time. This is how a new passion was born that gave rise to a new service for our clients: Family Films, which I'm very proud to be one of the first photographers to launch in Ireland. If the last year taught us anything, it was not to take anything for granted again. I wanted to capture my children and my life 'today', in the present moment. I wanted to remember the positive side of this past year, the sound of my children's laughter and their questions. I wanted to record a snapshot of our personal history as we are living in such unique times. This idea expanded into my entire business model. As a team, we chose to work on a re-branding strategy where we chose different areas that we are passionate about and have been upskilling in those areas. We have re-designed our website to provide more services for our clients. We also partnered with Hometree.ie to plant trees in Ireland for every client that books with us. 28

This is one small way that we can give back to our community. This has been an emotional year for everyone in different ways. I have chosen to see the beauty in it and turn it into something positive for my life, my family and my business. I'm so excited for the future and can't wait to welcome our clients back soon and to capture their beautiful stories in new and deep felt ways. With love, Tara x Contact Ph: 085 1555060 www.taradonoguephotography.com

Tara Ellen Design Studio

colours and fabric, layout and space planning, lighting and electrical plans, window treatments, sourcing furniture and accessories. She can also work with contractors and third party suppliers to take your project through from conception to completion. “The first step is to sit down with my client and get a good sense of where they are at and what they wish to achieve from their project. I like to gain an understanding of your lifestyle and needs, I then move on to produce full design plans, a bespoke buying guide, colour schemes, furniture and soft furnishing reccommendations, as well as room visualisations.” Tara

Tara Ellen Design Studio is based in Co.Kerry, Tara works from her converted shipping container studio, surrounded by green fields, a stark contrast to where she began her trade in London and a refreshing environment, full of inspiration.

Tara offers various packages to meet different needs, from one-hour consultations to a full interior design service. She will do as little or as much as the client needs to bring a concept to fruition and completion. In short, an Interior designer can take the stress out of what can be a very challenging time by passing on expertise and knowing off-hand where and how to source items. This, together with her eye for detail and love of colour and texture, you are sure to have a place to treasure.

The Design studio is currently offering a full online service, where you can work with Tara online to go through all of your design needs. Site visits can be arranged where covid guidelines can be adhered to Tara will take you from Initial planning stages, through to final decor choices to bring your home to life. Whilst every space is different, coming with its own challenges, Tara will create a space that looks, feels and functions as you need it to. Creating places that are a pleasure to be in. Tara can complete a scheme for each room and advise on paint

Alannah Kelleher The Fertha

The Fertha Bar is located on Main St , Cahersiveen Co Kerry. Nestled between the hills & sea, on the Wild Atlantic Way, and hopefully very soon the finest greenway in Europe will run through the town. 2020 has taught us all to stop & look at the beauty that surrounds us. We have so much to enjoy on our doorstep here in Cahersiveen and all of this to offer our visitors. My father Noel Kelleher opened the fertha in 1988 . He ran it with such pride & enthusiasm. Facing changing times Public Houses have to adapt & move forward and I will continue to do the same. Looking forward to being back doing what we do best , serving good food, cold beer,fine wines, a wide range of whiskeys....with excellent company. See you Soon Alanna Kelleher

Vicky O'Sullivan Touched by Tori

From a very young age I was very passionate about make up I was a dancer since the age of 5 so make up was essential for competitions shows etc so I learned how to apply my own make up . Back then we didn’t have YouTube or master classes to learn from so every week my dad would buy me a new product to add to my make up kit and I would spend hours and hours practicing and learning new techniques every day it was just something I loved to do. As I got older I started doing make up for friends or neighbours for occasions and nights out.

15-25 showing them different looks and techniques while giving them advice on how to become makeup artists and have a career in the industry. Make up artistry is constantly changing and growing and it’s very exciting to keep up with the new trends I’m always learning especially from others I am extremely lucky to have such amazing support in my family and friends and most of all my clients touched by tori wouldn’t be successful today if it wasn’t for all the help advice and loyalty I have received over the years I am truly grateful and I’m looking forward to many more years in business .

A very special friend Donal Walsh gave me a gift of my first make up brush kit and with that and becoming a new mom it gave me the push I needed to start my own carrier so I started training to become a professional makeup artist . I started working in a salon in town doing make up and I was so grateful to be given an amazing opportunity to do something I loved so much. With the advice from my father I decided to set up a make-up room of my own and become self-employed and that’s where “touched by tori” started it was very daunting and scary but Lesley Dennehy from hair works salon gave me great advice and helped me along the way we would travel the county to different courses training . After working on my own for so long I decided to become part of a team so I joined hair works I rent my own chair in the salon doing make up. It’s such an amazing environment to work in the girls in the salon are like family to me now and all the clients are good friends I am extremely lucky to meet such amazing people every day because of my job Currently I am hosting an online make up course along with Lesley for young girls aged between

the years.Lisa studied for her BMus in the Cork school of Music where she graduated with honors in 2010. Since then she has been a performer,vocal coach and choral director for many productions across Munster and has continued her studies of all things voice to better advance herself and her students knowledge. Lisa was very active in events in kerry, most recent as a judge for the ‘Christie Hennessy songwriting competition’ for IMROireland.

Lisa Curran Tralee Vocal Academy

Lisa is a native of Tralee and is owner of ‘Tralee Vocal Academy’ who provide vocal lesson for all from beginners to adults and has had many students release ep’s,singles and many going on to college to study music full time. This has all been put on hold of course for the foreseeable due to covid but she is positive the music industry will make its comeback safely in the next few years. Lisa began on stage at the age of 3 and has been leading lady for countless musical theatre productions in the county over 32

Lisa’s passion is being an autism advocate she has a little boy with Autism and is also autistic herself, she is working hard at making our county as autism friendly as possible. Most recently Lisa has become secretary on the tralee committee for the ‘autism friendly towns’ initiative from ireland’s autism charity and training centre ‘asIAm’ and is urging as many businesses,clubs,groups,schools and services to partake in the initiative which consists of a 40 minute training video and filling in a simple social story of the business of which templates are provided.The committee must reach certain percentages in each sector for the town to gain the official accreditation. Find her on Instagram: @traleevocalacademy @lisas_random_adventures @traleeautismfriendly

Meadowlands Hotel promotes Occasion Boxes and Care Packages Following the success of our Festive Grazing Boxes and Romantic Valentines Brunch Boxes, the Meadowlands Hotel plans to add more Occasion boxes in 2021. Support local is the theme for the delicious homemade boxes, all made from Kerry’s finest local produce. We are lucky enough to source our seafood directly from our own fish company, Iasc Uí Mhathúna in Dingle. Delicious pies sourced in-house from Pióg Pies. Meadowlands Mother’s Day Lunch Box will compromise of a tasty choice of pastry (vegan, vegetarian or meat option) with a selection of delicious salads, scones, sweet treats and surprises. This box is guaranteed to make your mother feel special! Celebrations for St Patrick’s Day will be different this year! However, we have prepared a special two or three course menus with all your traditional Meadowland’s favourites to ensure you will be able to celebrate and create new traditions with your loved ones at home! In addition to our Easter Takeaway weekend specials, our chefs will be preparing signature Easter Brunch Boxes for Adults and Children. The adult brunch will include filled croissants and pastries, waffles, fruit yogurt, a mimosa kit, special gift, and more. Children will be treated with a chocolate surprise brunch with a couple healthy treats thrown in. Meadowlands Care Packages are now well-established and the perfect gift to brighten someone’s day or to celebrate an occasion. This wholesome care package comprises of homemade brown bread with raspberry jam, vegetable soup, choice of heat at home dinners and lemon drizzle or chocolate cake. Whatever the reason, it will be sure to bring a smile and warmth to a friend, family member or colleague. We would like to thank all our local suppliers who have been so flexible and accommodating in the past year. Keep updated on Meadowlands Hotel website, Facebook and Instagram pages for Occasion Box & Care Package details. Contact us on 0667180444 for more information.

Support local is the theme for our delicious Occasion Boxes, Care Packages and Takeaway, made from Kerry’s finest local produce.

St. Patrick’s Day Lunch | Mother’s Day Lunch Box | Easter Brunch Box | Children’s Easter Brunch Bag | Meadowlands Care Packages

Call to order! See social media for menus and updates.

Our Seafood is directly sourced from our own fish company Iasc Uí Mhathuna in Dingle. Delicious pies in house from Pióg Pies. Thank you to all our local suppliers who have been so flexible and accommodating.

Ár mbuíochas L ibh

Deirdre GERAGHTY Art jam Art Jam Ireland has been providing innovative once off art workshops and art parties to the adult market since 2007. Set up by artist Deirdre Geraghty who believes that everyone is creative and wanted to give people a space to paint in a fun environment and take the fear out of art for people. So many people were told they were no good at art in school and therefore gave it up completely. However, art is not just for artists, being creative is a human need, furthermore the benefits of creative activity for well being and mental health cannot be underestimated. By creating a party style once off painting event that she could do anywhere around Ireland, she has been the pioneer in making art activities mainstream for the adult market. The idea is that you get together, paint together, have a few drinks, have some music on and just enjoy the activity with company rather than worry if you are any good at painting or not. Art Jam started off with doing team building /Staff events for the corporate market and in 2008 created a world first with her “Paint A Nude” for the hen party market. This proved to be a huge success and recession proof and increased the opportunity to reach more people. Art Jam has grown from strength to strength over the years adapting to the market and creating specific art

workshops for the clients needs. Art Jam Ireland has provided art events for some of the biggest companies to the smallest group, held events at festivals, corporate events, product launches, facilitates employee wellness workshops along with yoga & art retreats in Ireland and Spain. Over the last year she has adapted to online events which have proved to be a great hit with people working from home. Her online events for teams include Paint & Sip and Sculpt & Sip. No experience is required for any of the events that Art Jam Ireland provides. More recently since January 2021, Deirdre has created a fortnightly Friday evening event called CHAT COOK CREATE, bringing women together from all over the world for a step by step cooking & painting session. Each event is country themed for cooking and painting and there is an inspirational guest speaker for the first hour. This is a great space to feel inspired, get creative and connect with other like minded women. The idea behind this was create a space where participants feel like they are having a night out with friends, make some new friends, chat, cook and create and have a few glasses of wine. Recently Art Jam Ireland won the EU News Irish Enterprise Business Award for Most innovative Art Workshop Provider – and it is no surprise as Deirdre is always coming up with new ideas to make art fun and accessible for everyone. If you are interested in organising an event get in touch. Deirdre Geraghty + 353 86-0615695, deirdre@artjam.ie www.artjam.ie www.facebook.com/artjamireland www.instagram.com/ art_jam_ireland

Pauline Russell, Qigong, Tai Chi and Meditation.

It's 38 years since I attended my first weekend workshop on Qigong and Tai Chi and what an amazing journey it's been to date. A few short weeks later I went on to learn transendental meditation and theses have always been part of my life, since then exploring different forms and facinated with all Chinese Arts and Taoism I've studied with many great Masters both male and female and when in 2003 it all became a way of life I began my teacher training . Qualified and teaching now for 17 years I offer Classes workshops and retreats at home and overseas in Qigong , Tai Chi and Meditation. I've always continued to inform my work and studied Guolin walking Qigong for chronic diseases with the amazing Master Bisong Guo both a doctor of western and chinese medicine who's work I continue to be informed by. I've just twelve months ago become a senior instructor with the Irish Health Qigong association and am completing as we speak foundations of Traditional Chinese medicine and Women's Qigong practices specific to ever changing cycles in a woman's life.

Qigong and Tai Chi One of the most common questions asked is what's the difference between Qigong and Tai Chi. Simply put Qigong is over 4,000 years old and a branch of chinese medicine , Tai Chi is derived from martial arts. These wonderful gentle , soft flowing exercises performed coordinated with the breathe and with a focused mind bring many benefits to mention just a few . 1. Increases Bone density. 2. Improves cardiovascular and pulmonary system. 3. Improves Balance . 4. Boosts the Immune system 5. Improves quality of life 6. Improves self efficacy 7. Reduces stress 8. Decreases depression and anxiety. 2020 / 21 has been a difficult year for us all and continues to be so but what ever happens we have learned life goes on , different and sometimes difficult and we've all had to adapt to our new world. I really believe my practices and my classes now on zoom have been instrumental in my wellbeing, physically mentally and emotionally. I have missed all my wonderful clients coming to my studio , having a cup of chinese tea together while sharing ideas , tips, advise, laughing and supporting each other . I've missed hosting My chinese tea ceremonies. I've had to put back my Qigong Retreat due in Spain last September to this September and this could still be put off to 2022. But in reality we have only this moment so we must work with what we have and we'll try to do it with a smile on our faces . 38

We must build a new structure to our days and just a few tips that work really well are , Get up early , 7am or maybe 8am , rise with your energy . DO NOT LISTEN TO THE NEWS!!! . Drink a large glass of warm water. Do some form of exercise , gentle stretches, Qigong , yoga just move and open the body gently. Have a water rich nutritious breakfast . Engage your mind in something positive. Wear some clothing that makes you feel good . Get out for a walk and get fresh air even if it's just around a garden . Do a meditation. Watch your sugar intake it can leave you feeling deflated. Listen to music and Dance around the kitchen . We can do so much to lift our spirits . I have a lovely smiling meditation from one of my classes that without doubt will leave you smiling from ear to ear you can do it in under 10mins, if you wish to email me I can send you the link to it , It's free for all connect readers . If you are interested or have any questions about my work or classes please feel free to call text or email me and I will get back to you ASAP.

TARA ELLEN interior design

Working from home

www.taraellen.com 0877077433

Hello Connect readers, welcome back to our interiors tips, as we all see ourselves in unusual circumstances, we are all turning to online equivelents to hold on to as much of normality as we can. So this time, considering most of us are sitting at home, reading this online version and many of you working from home, I will be looking at how you can make the most of it, allowing you to enjoy the benefits, whilst having the space you need to complete your days work. As many of us adjust to a lifestyle of remote working during this pandemic, confined to our own homes, we begin to consider our new working environments. A dedicated work space in your home helps you set aside household distractions and focus on work. Ideally, you would have a separate dedicated space which you can lock at the end of the day. However, many of us, don’t have that luxury and need to think ‘outside of the box’. First of all, if there isn’t a spare room we can convert into a home office, we need to be realistic about where we can fit everything we need in order to be able to work. When planning a home office, we must consider a few important factors: 1) Position – where is the best place to make office space; consider distractions, surrounding noise etc. 2) Comfort – how to make the space as comfortable as possible. 3) Lighting – how should the space be lit; consider working hours and access to natural light. 4) Overall Look & Feel – how to make the space still look and feel like an extension of the home.

If you have the flexibility here, I would say choose a place in the back of the house, or the place where people tend not to flock to all day long. This could be part of the living room or a corner of a bedroom. For some of us, it might be a guest bedroom or other part of the house. whenever possible, chose a space with plenty of natural light; filling the space as much natural light as possible is better for your eyes and mental well-being. No office in your floor plan? Make your own by removing the doors of an empty cupboard and turning it into a cozy office space. Decorate it like you would any other room: Add wallpaper, light fixtures, and decorative touches. Get creative with your space and give it, its own style. paint the wall, or use a section of wallpaper, add some shelving and greenery to give your office or ‘space’ a new life. Scatter succulents and plants on shelves and reap the benefits, especially if you choose air-purifying varieties like spider and snake plants. 40

Tara x

TARA ELLEN interior design

@littlegreene

Kerry based Design Studio Full interior Design Service for both Residential and Commercial projects

www.taraellen.com 0877077433

Ireland rugby captain Ciara Griffin talks World Cup dreams, teaching through a pandemic & her perfect lockdown wedding…. By Marisa Reidy ANYONE who knows Ireland rugby captain Ciara Griffin knows that she is one of the most determined, ambitious and committed sports people you’re ever likely to meet. But alongside that incredible passion for rugby, is an equally admirable passion for her career as a primary teacher, her family and of course her new husband Damien. Always willing to share her time if and when she can, Ciara chatted with Connect as she travelled to Dublin for Ireland training camp last weekend – and just a few days before she prepared to return to her second class pupils at Tralee CBS. She is the ultimate organiser of time – she has to be – and admits that when juggling a career as a teacher and leading the Irish rugby team, she literally writes her schedule down hour by hour, day by day. “It’s very hard to juggle everything, but I’m really lucky that my principal and colleagues are 100 per cent supportive, so that makes it so much easier,” she said. “For me, it’s training before and after school, all weekends are up in Dublin for camp, so it’s a case of balancing my time to be honest. I’ve become very good at planning – I literally write it out in a weekly calendar, with the times things are happening each day. It takes huge discipline but you’d walk over hot coals to train to wear that Irish jersey.” Ciara’s love of rugby stems from her dad Denis, who was hugely involved in Castleisland Rugby Club when she was a child. She says she loved the physicality of rugby and her persistence to get involved at under age level paid off 44

when the club set up a women’s under 14 team. While Ciara also played a lot of football, handball and soccer as a child, it was always rugby that she was drawn to. “I went from Castleisland underage to Tralee RFC senior and now play with UL Bohs (Bohemians) in the AIL,” Ciara explained. “I loved playing with Tralee. It was where I got to play with Siobhan Fleming, one of my childhood heroes, so you can imagine how that felt for me. But from there I had to go to Limerick because I needed AIL division one.” Successful trials for Munster followed, and despite two unsuccessful Irish rugby trials, Ciara finally got the eagerly awaited call up to the Irish squad in 2015. It was a phone call she says will live with her forever. “I was at home and when the phone rang. I went out to the deck out the back so I’d have no distractions,” she recalls. “It was so amazing to listen to

the call. I don’t know how to explain it. It’s like your body kind of goes cold, if that makes sense. I was just so thrilled, I literally had goose bumps. For me, it was the equivalent of someone wanting to win the Lotto.” It would be three years later when Ciara receives the ultimate honour of being asked to captain the Irish team. To this day she considers it one of the absolute highlights of her career. And just like three years previously, she had to pinch herself to make sure it was really happening. “I was at school at the time, so I missed the call and had to call them back at lunch time, but all morning I was wondering if I’d done something wrong - it’s mad how your mind works,” she said. “So I rang them back and I was offered the captaincy, but then had to go back into the class and pretend nothing had happened. Obviously, I accepted it in a heartbeat and rang my mom and dad and Damien

grassroots and developing the pathway from underage to senior and then to inter-pro to international. If we get to a stage where it’s a seamless transition from level to level, then that would be amazing and would do so much for the women’s game. But it is certainly going in the right direction.” While much of Ciara’s time is of course taken up with rugby, it doesn’t take from the passion she has for her teaching career. You only need to speak to her for a few minutes to immediately get the sense of how much she loves her job.

to tell them the news. I just remember thinking: ‘Is this real? I didn’t just dream it, did I?”. Needless to say, it was a massive day for the entire Griffin family, with Ciara admitting that her parents were simply ecstatic with the news.

And just like rugby, that passion was instilled in her from a very young age at home – her mother was also a primary school teacher, who clearly made a major impact:

“Ah my parents were absolutely thrilled for me. I’ll never forget it. In fact, my mom even rang back in January and said ‘it’s three years today since you were made captain’. They’re my biggest supporters.”

“Once I have a plan I’ll stick to it and from a young age, I always wanted to be a primary teacher,” Ciara explained. “My mom was a teacher for years in O’Brennan NS in Ballymac and I suppose I saw her going to work every day and how much she loved it - and who doesn’t want to be like their mom? So it came from there really. She had a real passion for education and she instilled that in us.”

Asked about her rugby career highlights so far, of course being named Irish captain is right up here. So too is her first cap against Wales in 2016 and the try she scored in the World Cup against Australia.

Having taught in Limerick for a while, commuting every day from home, Ciara was offered a full time position at Tralee CBS three years ago. She adores the school, the kids and of course being back in Kerry!

The pinnacle now, however, is setting her sights on the World Cup in New Zealand this September

This year, however, has been one we are never likely to forget, but for Ciara it was all about adapting and doing your best – not only for teachers, but pupils and parents alike.

“The ultimate aim now is qualifying for the World Cup in New Zealand. That is the pinnacle for me - to get to play and captain your side in New Zealand,” Ciara explained. “We have the qualifiers in three weeks’ time so hopefully everything goes to plan.” Asked for her thoughts on the women’s rugby game not being professional, Ciara said that while much progress is being made, it’s not something she sees changing in her era. “I think every athlete would love to be professional – to just train, recover, eat, repeat. But it’s just not there at the moment and, to be honest, I can’t see it becoming professional in my era - but maybe down the line,” she said. “It is improving in terms of funding for 46

“It was an absolute curve ball wasn’t it, but like everything, you have to adapt. But this lockdown has definitely been better in terms of remote learning, I think, because people are more prepared,” she said. “But it’s still a transition from a physical classroom to a virtual one, with online lessons and recorded lessons, so it’s very tough. Obviously, I’d much prefer the classroom and cannot wait to get back [on Monday] to see the kids coming in and seeing their faces. We had an online lesson last week and they were all telling me how they cannot wait to come back, so I’ve told them I’ll remind them of that when they start complaining,” she joked.

As we chatted about school and the pressures of remote teaching, the conversation moved to the criticism of teachers have been receiving from some members of the public – particularly online. Ciara is well aware of the perceptions out there, and how some people believe that teachers are on some kind of an extended paid holiday – but this, she says, could not be further from the truth. “I’ve always said, paper never refused ink. I think people write things to lift you up and people write things to knock you down all the time, but that’s just people’s opinions. I know it’s not true and that’s how I tackle it,” she said. “The truth is, we have worked tirelessly since this began, doing our lessons, checking in with our kids every day, organising lessons online – I’ve learned things online I never thought we’d have to do. I know what we did as a group. I know what teachers did and I know we did our absolute best and knocked it out of the park. Others might not see that – and people are entitled to their opinion - but we know the truth.” Ciara was also keen to offer some advice and reassurance to any parent who is concerned about their child falling behind over the past few months… “The best advice I can give is don’t worry, because it’s our job to teach and to do any catch-up and go over things that they are worried about, “Ciara said. “The biggest thing though is to talk to the teacher - make a call and let them know your concerns. Because once we know your concerns we can adapt and can plan accordingly. If someone comes to us saying ‘I know we covered this during lockdown, but I don’t think my child got

International Women’s Day Choose To Challenge For centuries women have been looking out for each other. When you look back on your life, I am sure numerous women come to mind. From your Mother to your Grandmother and Aunts, they all played a part in our upbringing. On March 8th we celebrate International Women’s Day. This year the theme is Choose To Challenge. At The Scotia Clinic, we celebrate women every day. As a woman you are required to be strong, powerful and assertive, yet compassionate and kind. Finding the balance is something women have mastered. We encourage women to challenge and be empowered to get the best healthcare possible. For young teenagers we want them to set the foundations for a healthy future by getting the knowledge. As women get older we strive to support them in their fertility options and ensure all care available worldwide is available in Kerry. We delivered the first Satellite IVF care in Ireland and were in the top three facilities to provide HPV DNA testing. And in later life we want the women coming to us to lead their best quality of life after menopause. Our MenopauseSolutions@ Scotia provides that holistic approach, combining medical and non-medical options. Women continue to make their presence known, in corporate, political, and domestic lives, we all have an important role to play. No role is more important than being the gatekeeper of your own health. The importance of self-care is imperative, especially during the current climate. Eating right, exercise, and regular medical check-ups will help you on your journey. This International Women’s Day we would like to celebrate our patients for being strong women. From striving to start their family, taking control of their health, or growing a baby, each one is an inspiration. We will always work to ensure women get the most up to date healthcare possible. ‘A woman is like a tea bag – you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.'

Eleanor Roosevelt Contact :

Ph: (066) 7181100 The Scotia Clinic, Scotia House,Manor West, Tralee, Co. Kerry 47

it fully’ then we can work on that, but we need to know. Honestly, we never expected this and there will of course be concerns, but please be assured that all work will be covered and no child will be left behind. Everyone will be going into the next class knowing they have caught up on all their work. That’s our job. That’s what we are there for.” And if trying to adapt to remote teaching wasn’t enough stress for 2020, Ciara also had to postpone her July wedding due to Covid19 restrictions. Although not knowing at the time that a rescheduled December date would once again be subject to a maximum of 25 guests, Ciara and her partner Damien O’Sullivan went ahead with the December date at the stunning Ballyseede Castle Hotel – and she says it was the best decision they ever made. “So we decided to postpone from July to December, but even then we were only allowed 25 guests, but all I can say – and I don’t want to sound like a cliché – is it was the happiest day of my life,” Ciara insists. “It was perfect. Honestly, if anyone is worried about the smaller

numbers, don’t be. If I had a choice again, I wouldn’t change from 25. If you told me in the morning I could have 100, I wouldn’t change it. “There was a time where I was stressed and panicked, of course, but I loved every minute of it. It was really intimate and safe and our nearest and dearest were there and that’s what you want. We got to spend time with everyone and I really just enjoyed my day. I’m a very lucky woman to have a husband like Damien – he’s a patient man – but the day was perfect.” Now, however, as Ciara gets back to some semblance of normality and back to her beloved classroom, she also has a hectic few months ahead of her in the green of Ireland. Up first are the World Cup qualifiers in March, followed by the rescheduled Six Nations competition in April – and should Ireland make the World Cup in September, it’s a busy few months of training all summer. One thing is for certain, however - our captain will give it everything she’s got!

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Kerry Mental Health Association’s Shines A Light On The Five Ways To Wellbeing John Drummey, General Manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, recalls a recent random act of kindness from a stranger which gave a boost to both their wellbeing.

are happy and well, you’re MORE likely to experience positive relationships with others – your family, friends and work colleagues. What are the 5 Ways To Wellbeing?

I was in town to buy an essential item to assist with one of my children’s home-schooling needs recently.

1. Connect…with the people around you. Family and friends, work colleagues and people in your community. If you can’t connect with someone in person, there’s always the phone, a direct message on social media or text or the good oldfashioned posted letter. You’ll feel good for getting in touch and the person you reach out to will appreciate the connection that’s being made.

When I got out of the car on Denny Street, I met a man who was in a bit of a tizz looking for the parking meter. I directed him to the machine outside the old AIB. The gentleman mentioned that he “would rather pay a €1 fee rather than a €70 fine”. In agreeing with him, I realised that I didn’t have any cash or change in my pocket because tap-payments are now the norm, and therefore, I didn’t even have 60c to pay the minimum parking fee on Denny Street.

2. Be Active…whatever the weather or wherever you are. The Kerry weather shouldn’t stop us from going for a walk, run or cycle. Put on your favourite song and dance your heart out! No one has to see you and if they do, it might give them a lift too! Being physically active can improve your mental health and wellbeing. 3. Take Notice…of the world around you. Have you seen or heard something today that you never noticed before? Seasons change…the clouds make interesting shapes, the rain and wind combine to create a rhythmic backing track to your “metime”. Pay attention to the present moment.

I happened to mention that in a ‘by-the-way manner’ to the gentleman as I turned to go to about my business and to return as quickly as possible to avoid picking up a fine.

4. Keep Learning…something new or reconnect with something that you used to enjoy doing. Challenging yourself learning a new skill will increase your confidence which can improve your mental health and wellbeing.

I returned to my car about 10 minutes later and was on the phone to someone at the same time when I noticed a ticket on my windscreen. I immediately thought that I had been fined. But no, it wasn’t a parking fine, it was a €1 parking ticket.

5. Give…someone a compliment, your unused parking disc, your time as a volunteer. You’ll feel good about yourself. Thanking someone for something they’ve done for you is the gift of appreciation.

I could only assume that the gentleman who I had met earlier had kindly purchased the ticket. What a lovely gift and act of kindness for which I was most grateful.

The generosity of the kind stranger on Denny Street made me feel good and grateful. I’m sure that the gentleman who paid for my parking ticket also felt good too. To learn more about Kerry Mental Health Association and the 5 Ways To Wellbeing, visit www.KerryMentalHealth.com, or follow us on Kerry Mental Health | Facebook, @KerryMentalHea1 Twitter, @kerrymentalhealth Instagram and 5 Ways To Wellbeing YouTube.

To Give is one of the 5 Ways to Wellbeing. The others are to Connect, Be Active, Take Notice and Keep Learning. Kerry Mental Health Association is keen to promote the 5 Ways To Wellbeing. In doing so, the charity aims to empower the people in communities throughout Kerry to take control of their lives and to make the right decisions to help protect their mental and physical health. Wellbeing is when you’re feeling good and functioning well. It’s not just about being in good physical condition, but it crucially includes the state of your mental health. If your mind is not in a good place, there can be a series of knock-on effects that will impact the quality of your overall wellbeing. Let’s all shine a light on the 5 Ways To Wellbeing because if YOU 50