Chris O’Reilly and Candi Warhol taking part in the Kerry Pride Parade. Photo by Dermot Crean
A DAMP and miserable Tralee town centre was certainly livened up on Saturday when the Kerry Pride Festival staged their parade on Saturday.
About 50 people took part in the event from the Brandon car park down Princes Street, around by The Brogue, into The Mall and up Denny Street.
When they reached the Ashe Memorial Hall there was a drum dance extravaganza and a real party atmosphere with some young onlookers also joining in the fun.
Margaret O’Donoghue of Kerry Pride explained the reason behind the event.
“The purpose of the march is to give visibility to LGBT people living and working in Kerry every day. This is an occasion once a year for them to come out and be proud of who they are and not to hide,” said Margaret.
Events have been running as part of the festival all week with ‘The Night of Pride’ taking place in the Earl of Desmond on Saturday night and a family fun day in the Town Park on Sunday.
IT was a day of celebration for the children of two schools on Saturday when pupils of CBS Primary School and Derryquay NS celebrated their First Holy Communion.
St John’s Church was a hive of activity as the CBS youngsters received the sacrament with proud parents and family members looking on.
Over in St Brendan’s Church in Curraheen the scene was much quieter with just five boys and two girls celebrating the special day.
Nevertheless there was great excitement after in the church grounds as they posed for photos to remember the momentous day.
CBS pupil Alex Clifford who made his First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with his parents Fionnuala and Tim, sisters Paula and Evie and baby Rory. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS pupil Tyrese Flanagan, Tralee, who made his First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with his dad Liam Cashman and uncles Shane and Oran from Mallow. Photo by Dermot CreanLisa Rowan, Tralee, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents PJ and Julie and her brother Nathan. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS pupil Jodie O’Mahony, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with Stewart Parker and Sabrina O’Mahony. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS pupil Shannon Aba, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with her mother Teresa Elumelu, sister Kerry and classmate Alison McEvoy. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS pupil Daniel Krumina, who made his First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with his mother Santa. Photo by Dermot CreanSeamus O’Neill, who made his First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with his parents James and Sheila and sister Tess. Photo by Dermot CreanCBS pupil Rachel Jordan Banks, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with her parents Deirdre Jordan and David Banks. Photo by Dermot CreanRachel Mulgrew, who made her First Holy Communion in St Brendan’s Church Curraheen on Saturday morning, with parents Alan and Sharon, sisters, Lucy, Kate and baby Sophie. Photo by Dermot CreanKeelin Enright, who made her First Holy Communion in St Brendan’s Church, Curraheen on Saturday morning, with parents Johnny and Norma, brothers Michael and Cillian. Photo by Dermot CreanJake Foley, who made his First Holy Communion in St Brendan’s Church, Curraheen on Saturday morning, with parents Bernice and John. Photo by Dermot Crean
JUST two of the 14 candidates have been elected to the Tralee Electoral Area of Kerry County Council so far.
Toireasa Ferris and Pa Daly of Sinn Fein were elected on the first count on Saturday night before Michael McMahon adjourned the count until Sunday morning at 9am.
The first count went as follows (alternatively, watch the video of the count below):
1. Toireasa Ferris (Sinn Fein) – 2,679
2. Pa Daly (Sinn Fein) – 2,122
3. Norma Foley (Fianna Fail) – 1,541
4. Terry O’Brien (Labour) – 1,285
5. Jim Finucane (Fine Gael) – 1,242
6. Pat McCarthy (Fine Gael) – 1,160
7. Thomas McEllistrim (Fianna Fail) – 1,087
8. Graham Spring (Labour) – 899
9. Ted Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail) – 829
10. Sam Locke (Non-Party) – 815
11. Johnnie Wall (Non-Party) – 763
12. Grace O’Donnell (Fine Gael) – 657
13. Tommy Collins (Non-Party) – 511
14. Gillian Wharton Slattery (Labour) – 396
The distribution of the surplus of Toireasa Ferris (1,080) and Pa Daly (523) will take place after the count resumes at 9am this morning.
Here’s a video of the First Count with some very happy Sinn Fein candidates celebrating at the end…
Pa Daly with his wife Mary at the count centre on Saturday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
FIRST-TIME candidate Pa Daly was overwhelmed with the vote he received in the Tralee Electoral Area elections to Kerry County Council.
He was elected on the first count last night along with his Sinn Fein party colleague, Toireasa Ferris, who topped the poll.
The Tralee solicitor garnered 2,122 first preference votes and said the party’s strategy of leaving the town to him and outside Tralee to Cllr Ferris, paid dividends.
Cllr Daly spoke to TraleeToday.ie after his election at the count centre in John Mitchels GAA Complex, and first gave his reaction to the size of his vote. (see video)
SINN Fein’s Toireasa Ferris topped the poll in the Tralee Electoral Area and said the party is now the main opposition party to the Government.
She also said she felt sorry for the ordinary Labour supporters because, as she put it, “the Labour leadership had prostituted themselves for power and abandoned the principles of the party.”
Cllr Ferris topped the poll with 2,679 first preference votes, followed by her party colleague Pa Daly on 2,122.
Both were elected on the first count last night. TraleeToday.ie spoke to Toireasa Ferris in the wake of the success and first of all asked her how did she account for such a huge party vote. (See video)
Sorting out the votes at the count centre at John Mitchels GAA Complex on Saturday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
By Dermot Crean at John Mitchels GAA Complex
A FIRST count for the Tralee Electoral Area is likely to be announced later tonight with Sinn Fein sitting pretty on top of the poll according to tallies.
From the 51 boxes opened in Killarney earlier, tallies suggest that Toireasa Ferris and Pa Daly are set to easily win seats with 16.8% and 13.3% respectively.
Trailing them are Norma Foley of Fianna Fail on 9.6% and Labour’s Terry O’Brien on 8.3%.
Two Fine Gael candidates follow with Jim Finucane on 7.8% while in sixth place is Pat McCarthy on 7.3%.
If the tallies are right it looks like Mac could be back with Thomas McEllistrim on 6.7%.
Labour’s Graham Spring is in 8th position, at 5.6%, Fianna Fail’s Ted Fitzgerald is 9th on 5.2%, followed by Sam Locke, Independent at 5.1%.
Trailing for those precious seats are Johnnie Wall, Grace O’Donnell, Tommy Collins, and Gillian Wharton Slattery, but these are just tallies so there’s nothing certain for a long time yet.
However with an estimated quota of 1,594, it’s possible that we could see a couple of people hoisted on top of shoulders by the end of the night.
Mercy Mounthawk students, Sharon Reidy and Laura Rogers, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot Crean
OUR Lady and St Brendan’s Church was packed on Friday afternoon as sixth year students from Mercy Mounthawk got together with their families for a special graduation ceremony.
The young men and women, who started at the school back in 2008, are busy studying for the Leaving Cert, but this was a last chance to celebrate before the hectic month of June ahead.
About 200 students attended the Mass which was followed by an address from Principal John O’Roarke and Vice-Principal Mr Fleming. Then, Head Boy and Girl, Liam Gannon and Vanessa Dineen, both spoke on behalf of the students.
After the ceremony, students posed for photos with their families before going on to further celebrate their graduation.
Scroll down for photos…
Mercy Mounthawk students, Oliver Thornton, Anna Ryan, James Kelly, Niall Carroll Cane, Jordan Foley, James Clifford and Patrice Scirakova after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Catherine Murphy, Edel Carmody, Rebecca O’Sullivan and Shannon Dowling, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Dervla O’Connor, David Kavanagh, Mairin Maher and Ciara Cusack, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Chris O’Sullivan, Brendan O’Connor, Christopher Kirby, Tommy Turner, Kevin Shanahan and Michael Grimes, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Cathal Rogers, Eoin O’Carroll, Claire Brennan, Deirdre O’Shea, Matt Finnerty, Cian Sayers and Paul Ruane after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Aoife Foran, Emer Cantillon and Karina Quilter, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Deirdre Donovan, Vanessa Dineen and Josh Barnes, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk student, Danielle Horgan, with parents Noreen and Phil, after her graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Jonathan O’Brien, Cillian O’Brien, Sean Ryan and Niall O’Brien, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Shauna Fitzgerald, Fiachra O’Connor, Rachel Byrne and Lauren Tobin, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanSylvia Jalusf (left) with Mercy Mounthawk students, Lydia Walsh and Patrice Scirakova after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students, Jacyanne Yvanez and Ronan Buckley, after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMercy Mounthawk students Clodagh Bissett and Shauna Moriarty after their graduation ceremony in Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot Crean
The Tralee Electoral Area candidates are facing into a nervous weekend as the ballot boxes were opened this morning over in the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre.
The ballot boxes from the 143 polling centres throughout the county will have to be sorted, separating the European election votes from the local election ballots.
The European papers then go to Cork to be counted there.
The John Mitchels GAA Complex in Ballyseedy will be the venue for the counting of votes for the Tralee and Listowel areas, while the counting of votes in the Killarney and South and West Kerry areas will continue in Killarney.
First counts are not expected to get underway until about 6pm at the Mitchels Complex and TraleeToday.ie will be there later to bring you updates throughout the evening and night.
WE’RE marking one month up and running here at TraleeToday.ie and we’ve got something to celebrate…thanks to you!
In the period from April 24 to May 23 (31 days), the site has surpassed the 100,000 views mark with over 17,000 unique users.
People have been logging on to the site in 83 countries from Qatar to the Cayman Islands.
Of course, of the 17,004 users, Ireland makes us the largest number with 14,216 people visiting the site with a geographical spread across the entire country, not just Tralee where thousands are logging on.
Up to midnight on Friday May 23, pages on the site were viewed 101,406 times.
This is all thanks to you, the readers, who have been visiting on a regular basis to see the latest news, sport, and fun stuff from the county capital.
A heartfelt thanks for all your support!
• Figures supplied by Google Analytics, tracking the site since Thursday, April 24.
Mary Hickey just after being named Kerry Rose 2014. Photo by Dermot Crean
By Dermot Crean
RATHMORE has its first ever Kerry Rose as Mary Hickey was picked out of the bunch of 27 contestants on Friday night at Ballyroe Heights Hotel.
The 26 year old primary school teacher, representing the O’Donoghue Ring Hotel Group, was shocked and delighted when Daithi O Se made the announcement.
She spoke to TraleeToday.ie minutes after the event about how she felt when her name was called out.
“I was waiting for about 26 other names. I thought there wasn’t a hope my name would be called out. I was in complete and utter shock, especially after being chosen from such an amazing group of women. I’m honoured, privileged and humbled,” said Mary.
So she has a busy few months ahead of her…
“I’m looking forward to representing Kerry. I’m going to follow in such fantastic footsteps of Roses like Gemma Kavanagh. There’s been a wonderful lineage set down already and I know there’ll be great support for me going forward,” said Mary.
Like all young girls, when Mary was growing up she wanted to be up there on the stage as the Kerry Rose.
“We used to watch it at home when we were growing up. We used all pick a Rose and whoever’s Rose won would win a prize. I know it’s a cliche, but I used to look at it and hope that I’d be there someday,” said Mary.
Mary Hickey with her mother Marian on stage after Mary won the Kerry Rose title. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mary has one brother Liam who couldn’t be there on the night but her mother Marian was there and joined her on the stage to congratulate her. Mary’s father passed away when she was eight.
“I’m sure he’s looking down proudly on me tonight,” she said.
Mary, who teaches in Millstreet, is a leader with the Social Action Group, and volunteers with Barretstown Camp for children with serious illnesses.
From Sliabh Luachra, Mary has a keen interest in music, playing the concertina and is a member of the Marian Players Pantomime Group and the Glen Theatre.
THE Kerry Rose selection over now, but earlier on Friday we were there to capture the glamour of the contestants before they took to the stage at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel.
The 27 ladies were looking amazing and posed for photos with family and friends before facing their interviews with host Daithi O Se.
All of them were relaxed and looking forward to the night ahead. The winner, Mary Hickey from Rathmore, was announced just before midnight.
Scroll down for photos…
Kerry Rose contestants Maria Ward, Sarah Mullins, Sarah Linehan, Fiona McMahon and Vanessa Earlie, at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanKerry Rose contestants Cora O’Connor, Cliodhna Ni Dheargain, Shauna Cashel, Aine O’Sullivan and Aisling O’Carroll at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanThe 27 Kerry Rose contestants at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot CreanCheering on Rose contestant Aine O’Sullivan from Kenmare were Susan Collins, Emma Collins, Niamh Collins and Debbie Long. Photo by Dermot CreanMargaret Doody, Grace Kennelly representing John F Maguire’s Pharmacy, Lisa Doody and Brigid Doody. Photo by Dermot CreanGrace Murphy, Grainne Cremins, Shauna O’Donoghue supporting Mairead Cremins of Sandra’s Hair Salon on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanSinead Moriarty (fifth from left) the Marina Inn Rose with, supporters from left; Siobhan McGowan, Bridie Kennelly, Emer Flannery, Marguerite Kavanagh , Niamh Ni Shuilleabhain, Grainne Kane and Shauna Neher at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanSheila O’Dwyer, Mike Sheehan, Rose contestant Louise O’Shea, Mary O’Shea and John Sheehan at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanEileen O”Carroll, Rose Contestant Aisling O’Carroll and Myra Blackwood at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot CreanBernard Mullins, Catherine O’Sullivan and Patrick Mullins supporting Sarah Mullins on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Laura Costello, Kerry Rose 2013 Gemma Kavanagh and Tom Vaughan pictured before the Kerry Rose Selection on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
By Dermot Crean
THE outgoing Kerry Rose said that whoever is chosen as the new Rose, they should savour the occasion and give it their all for the year.
Gemma Kavanagh from Killarney was speaking at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel before the Kerry Rose Selection took place on Friday night.
Mary Hickey from Rathmore was eventually chosen as the Kerry Rose just before midnight.
TraleeToday.ie asked Gemma how the year had gone.
“It’s been a fantastic year. It’s always been something I wanted to do and it has surpassed my expectations. Whichever lucky girl is picked tonight will go on to have great year,” said Gemma.
“I think the highlight of my involvement with the Rose of Tralee has been the friendships that I made as a result of it. The Cork Rose from 2013, Edel Buckley is here tonight and my escort from last year Tom Vaughan is here also with three other escorts. Around 15 Roses and escorts from last year went to New York in March and we were lucky enough to march in the St Patrick’s Day Parade down Fifth Avenue. Those friendships I made as Kerry Rose will continue.”
And any advice for the incumbent Rose?
“Just enjoy the year, savour it and give it your all throughout,” said Gemma.
Kerry Rose 2013 Gemma Kavanagh at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Casting his vote in Holy Family National School was Padraig Courtney . Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
VOTING for the local and European elections around town was running at an average of around 22% by 3.30pm on Friday with some polling stations differing greatly in their numbers around that time.
TraleeToday.ie visited polling stations around the town in the afternoon to gauge the interest in the election.
In Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh the turnout was around 18% at 3.30pm. In Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn it was about the same, while Holy Family booths were running at 20%.
On the other side of town, in Presentation Primary School, the turnout was 20% by 3pm with one of the presiding officers, Judith Dillane, reporting voting as “brisk”.
In the CBS Primary School the voter turnout was slightly higher with one booth reporting a turnout of as high as 30% with other booths around the mid 20s.
Voting continues until 10pm tonight.
Scroll down for photos…
Casting her vote in Balloonagh National School was Martina Hartman and Nicole Hartman. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.Casting his vote in Gaelscoil Mhic Easmainn was Garvin O’Callaghan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.Presiding Officer Damien Ginty stamps Eva Boyle’s voting card at CBS Primary School on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanMartin and Louise Farrell, with son Dean, casting their vote at Presentation Primary School on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot CreanAnn McGlynn from Manor West casts her vote before heading off to a wedding, at Presentation Primary School on Friday afternoon. Also included is Joan Sheehy and Judith Dillane. Photo by Dermot Crean.Lisa Martin casts her vote at Presentation Primary School on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot Crean.Brian Begley casting his vote at CBS Primary School on Friday afternoon. Photo by Dermot Crean
WHAT is it about Ashe Street and naming cafes after classic artists?
For years, Reuben’s culinary artists served up decent food at the top of the street until it closed a few years ago, while Chopin has been conducting its mellifluous melodies of lunches and dinners to hungry office workers with aplomb.
And down the street, is the old maestro.
Mozarts celebrated 15 years in business on April 6 and it’s clear why it has been going for so long. The first thing that strikes you when entering is the tasteful decor; striking art, stylish seating, and elegant lightshades give the place a bohemian feel.
I easily got a seat when I arrived, which I thought unusual, as the last few times I came into Mozarts I had to do a quick about turn, such was the 1-2pm rush.
The regular menu is full of ‘Vegetarian Lyrics’, ‘Mozarts Melody Of Salads’ and ‘Foccacia Specials’ catering for all tastes but I went for one of the specials.
As is the fashion these days, the specials menu arrived on a small blackboard, each entry more tempting than the last.
The low fat special (Mozarts also has its own separate low fat menu with the calorie count) was smoked chicken breast with a basil and low fat cheese filling, served with boulangerie potatoes and vegetables.
There was also pulled pork in a pitta bread with BBQ sauce, onion and cheese served with fries and salad while the wrap or gap special was gourmet chicken, feta, sundried tomato, onion pesto mayo served with fries and salad.
I went for the pork pitta without the chips. It didn’t disappoint and could be best described as a delicious mess.
The beautifully tender pork is almost marinated in the sauce, melted cheese and onion, while the warm crispy pitta left me feeling full and not needing the extra carbs of the fries.
Predictably, I had a cappuccino to wash it all down and went on my way, sated. The bill came to a very reasonable €10.90 which was music to my ears. Play on maestro…
Models strutting their stuff at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
By Dermot Crean
IT really was a memorable night with a party atmosphere when around 700 people attended a fashion show with a difference.
Around 70 models with Down Syndrome and learning disabilities, from all over Kerry, strutted their stuff on the catwalk to rapturous applause in Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. It was a real community effort with businesses from town supplying all the clothes and an array of generous spot prizes.
The chief organiser, Maree O’Connor from Tralee, said the idea for the event was inspired by her 19 year old daughter, Labhaoise, who has Down Syndrome.
Maree, married to Donal O’Connor who is principal of Caherleaheen NS, explained to TraleeToday.ie what the night was all about, just before the show.
“This is a celebration of people with learning disabilities,” she said. “There is a lot of people with Down Syndrome and others with varying degrees of learning disabilities here and we wanted to give them a chance to get up on the stage and show off and have fun.”
She said much work had gone into the night.
“It’s taken six to eight weeks but I’m absolutely overwhelmed with the response. I never expected to have 70 models here on the night, I never expected the shops and businesses in the town to be so welcoming to the idea and so co-operative.When parents went to the sports and fashion stores to get the models fitted, they couldn’t get over how into the whole thing the staff were and the welcome they got.”
The models came from all over Kerry and were of varying ages as Maree explained.
Models looking cool at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
“The models taking part are from all over Kerry; from Cahersiveen, Kenmare, Killarney, Listowel, Tralee and outlying areas. The youngest model we have is 15 months and the oldest is 44, so we have all ages,” said Maree. “They are really excited. We’ve had two rehearsals already in the hotel and those nights were amazing. They loved walking up and down on the catwalk.”
The event had a lot of media coverage in the run-up to Thursday night, not least from the Sunday Independent who ran a story on it in its Life Magazine.
“We were very lucky. I emailed Brendan O’Connor from [RTE’s] The Saturday Night Show to tell me about it and he passed on the information to the editor of Life Magazine. They sent down a journalist and she spent the day with us. That’s how that article came about,” explained Marie.
It was also an opportunity to raise funds for a new project as Maree explained.
Mary Jo Daly on the catwalk during the show on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
“We’re trying to get funding for a new project for young adults and school leavers and to offer them another forum where they can develop their educational skills, social skills and creative skills.”
“We want to give them a worthwhile place to be and also key to the whole thing is integration into the local community. We want to develop links with local businesses in Kerry and get the guys proper work opportunities on a long-term basis,” said Maree.
Speaking the morning after the event, Maree said she still couldn’t get over the support and the fun that was had on the night.
“At the end of the show, 12 of the models did a Zumba dance on the stage. Not only did they get a standing ovation, but the whole crowd joined in for the last two dances.”
With all the highlights of this amazing occasion, Maree said one thing really stood out for her on the night.
“There was one child who was very quiet and withdrawn and her parents thought there was no way she would get on the stage and take part. She was due to be last up on stage. When the time came at the end, she took to the catwalk and got into the atmosphere of the event. That really made my night.”
Scroll down for another 15 photos from the night…
CEO Down Syndrome Ireland, Pat Clarke; Sheila Power, Down Syndrome Kerry; Ann Ladden Secretary Down Syndrome Kerry; Marie O’Connor, main organiser of the fashion show and Ronan Redican, Chairman Down Syndrome Kerry with children Ronan, Sean Michael and Andrew Redican pictured before the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanAnn O’Neill, Siobhan and Saoirse Prout, Castlemaine, at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanJessica Power on the catwalk at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanJP O’Brien, Liam Purcell and Dale Carroll waiting for the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanMadeline Brosnan, Mary Lawlor, Maureen O’Sullivan, Noreen O’Halloran and Aoibhe O’Halloran at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanNellie Poff (right) and Aoife Poff, with Colm and Helen Horgan and children Robin, Lizzie and Rachel Horgan, Kenmare, at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanLaura Russell, Anna O’Keeffe, Sybille Ehlbeck, Asdee at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanSheila McCarthy, Mary O’Connell, Ann Marie O’Connor, Mary Mahony, Castleisland at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanMary Purcell, Shannon Lonergan and Jean Lynch, Tralee at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanIn front; Ellen Keely, Sarah Foley, Erin Keely and Lauren Foley, Patsy Foley and at back, Mary Roche and Madeline Foley, at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanAnn and Carol McMahon, Rockpark Avenue, Tralee, at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanJoanne Roche and Megan Ryan from Mods And Minis, Tralee, at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanBreda Switzer, Mairead Moriarty and Ann Moran at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanChristina Buckley and Noreen Flaherty, Lixnaw at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot CreanMary McCarthy, Samantha McCarthy, Betty McCarthy, Lynton Dinsdale, Milltown at the fashion show in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
I WAS talking to a family member a few years ago and during the conversation he informed me that it was impossible to have two thoughts in your mind at exactly the same time.
There might be a minute fraction of a second between them, but the two thoughts cannot occur at exactly the same time.
That statement struck a chord with me because around that time I was trying to come to terms with my own thought process – in other words my mind was bothering me.
Just like an artist cleaning his easel before doing a painting, I want to set my own ground rules before I start writing about the mind.
First of all what do I mean by the mind? Interestingly enough, despite thousands of operations taking place all over the world every year, no surgeon has ever in the history of mankind claimed to have discovered a mind!
When I refer to the mind, my ground rule is that I am referring to the ‘thinking mind’ only as there are many other facets to the mind.
Here are a few facts about the mind.
• The average human being has about 60,000 thoughts in a day
• About 90% of those thoughts are repetitive and are of no real benefit to us as they are only repeating themselves over and over again.
• About 80% of the thoughts that we do have are negative – this is a normal part of our conditioned human programming – in other words we are conditioned towards fear (worry).
So “Roger what is all of the overall information above about and how can it benefit me in my daily life?”
Well first of all, to do anything or to fix anything we need to be motivated to change. The motivation to change surely comes from the awareness and the realization of how self-harmful the thinking mind can be and also how devious it can be, because this harm is caused to ourselves by ourselves in the realm of the subconscious unaware thinking mind.
Now for the good bit – the solution is totally within our own hands and it is available to every single human being whether they realize it or not, but it can only be brought to fruition by each individual in his/her own right.
The solution lies in the practice of mindfulness and meditation. As I explained earlier, you cannot have two thoughts at exactly the same time.
Neither can your thinking mind be in two places at the same time and here lies the ultimate solution to worry, anxiety, depression, stress etc.
If you focus your mind on your breath or for that matter your breathing process and if you are truly focused on what you are doing then for that moment, you are free from the control of the thinking mind.
This is a process that like any other process must be practiced and is best done in a non-judgemental manner – the reason for this is that if we are judging the process we are thinking and the real benefit comes from the long term practice of non-thinking.
There is a very useful eBook available free on the internet called ‘Mindfulness in plain English’ which will help put to bed many of the myths that surround meditation.
I cannot overemphasise the importance of the breath in meditation, so next week I will continue the discussion with this in mind.
• Roger Harty is a life coach and can be contacted on 087-6128336, on twitter at @Innerjoyz1 or by email rogharty@gmail.com Roger will be speaking at Rathkeale House this Sunday at 3pm at the Holistic and Health Fair in aid of Milford Hospice, Limerick. For more information see https://www.facebook.com/events/271673616338960/permalink/274588312714157/
ONE of Tralee’s most famous hostelries will be back in business this July…and members of the Kirby family will be back with it.
Cotter Food & Catering Limited is delighted to announce that the company has purchased Kirby’s Brogue Inn, Rock Street.
The Brogue Inn, a “landmark at the bottom of the Rock” for over 30 years, will open in July and it will continue to have strong links with the Kirby Family.
Kevin Cotter, his wife Fiona Kirby and her brother Fergal Kirby are the Directors of Cotter Food & Catering Limited which employs 42 staff throughout Kerry.
The Brogue Inn closed its doors in April 2013 to much sadness throughout the town.
The business, which opened its doors back in 1977, quickly became a Tralee institution thanks to the great reputation for food and the late Bill Kirby’s hospitality.
It also became almost a headquarters for hosting charity events over the years with Bill’s generosity knowing no bounds.
In addition to acquiring The Brogue Inn, Cotter Food & Catering Limited already owns the very successful MJ’s Diner at Clash, Tralee.
The company also operates the catering franchises at a number of schools and businesses including Mercy Mounthawk School, Tralee; Presentation School, Killarney; HSE Offices, Tralee; St Brendan’s College, Killarney; Tralee Community College and the Aqua Dome, Tralee.
In announcing the purchase of The Brogue Inn, the Cotter and Kirby families expressed their gratitude to family members, friends and financial advisors who have been most supportive since April 2013.
It’ll be great to see it back again. The only question is: Where will they fit everyone on opening night?
Launching the Rockie Race Night at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium were, from left; Kieran Donaghy, Peter O’Regan, Liam Lynch, Padraig Lynch and Dan Foley with younger members of the club.
ARE you still wondering what to do as the weekend approaches?
Well the Austin Stacks GAA club night at the dogs is on Friday, May 23 at Kingdom Greyhound Stadium.
The club, in association with our main evening’s sponsor Quinlan’s Fish Shops & Sea Food Bars, are inviting everyone to share in the fun at ‘The Rockies Night at the Dogs’.
It promises to be a big family night with bouncy castle and face painting for the kids, on-track races for club juveniles, the ‘Rockie Bartenders race’ and the return due to unprecedented demand, of the famous, ‘Rockie Rat Roulette’.
Club juveniles will lead out dogs for the various races and the all-conquering U14 Féile Team will be introduced before they make the trip to the National Féile Finals in a few weeks. And kids go in free!
First Race at of the 11 race, all-sponsored card gets underway at 7.45pm. Doors open at 7pm.
Big night afterwards in the clubhouse with ‘Fiddler’s Green’ – free bus transfers from the track to the club will run from 10pm.
Tickets now on sale at the Clubhouse – cost €10 or on the night.
Frank Lewis, Secretary Radio Kerry Board of Directors; Tim O’Keeffe, Chairman Radio Kerry Board of Directors; Michael O Keeffe (BAI); Bob Collins (BAI) at the signing of the contract in Dublin on Monday.
THE Broadcasting Authority of Ireland has signed a ten-year sound broadcasting contract with Radio Kerry, to continue to provide a local, broad-format radio service for listeners in County Kerry.
“The BAI is very pleased to sign this contract with Radio Kerry. said the Chairperson of the BAI, Bob Collins. “The service has sustained a strong connection with its audience since it first came on air. Over the term of its new contract, Radio Kerry has committed to preserving and promoting the heritage, culture and contemporary values that are unique to the county. I wish the station continued success over the term of the licence.”
Radio Kerry Chairman Tim O’Keeffe said that the new 10 year licence will ensure that Kerry continues to receive the high quality of service it has come to know and expect in the 24 years since the station began broadcasting in July 1990.
“Radio Kerry is part of the fabric of Kerry life and this new security of tenure is very important to the communities in Kerry who rely on the service for their news, sport and entertainment both in Kerry and beyond,” he said.
The BAI was represented at the contract signing by the Chairperson, Bob Collins and Michael O’Keeffe, Chief Executive. The signatories for Radio Kerry were Tim O’Keeffe, Chairperson and Frank Lewis, Secretary. Paul Byrne, CEO and Fiona Stack, General Manager also attended the contract signing.
The effective date of the new contract is July 10, 2014.
IT’S set to be a night of laughter and reminiscing for ex-pupils of Balloonagh Secondary School when they get together next week.
The Class of 1994 will reconvene in Stoker’s Lodge on Saturday, May 31 and organisers are hoping for great turnout.
One of the organisers, Maureen Quirke, said the reunion is nearly 18 months in the making.
“I started a Facebook page back in January 2013 because I wanted to give people plenty of time to make contact. So far we have 76 people linked to the page out of the 110 who attended in 1994. We’ve been keeping in touch and sharing photographs of events over the years like communions and confirmations.”
“Some of us would have been together from pre-school right up to Leaving Cert, which is very special,” said Maureen.
Organisers are expecting over 35 people to show up on the night from all corners of the country and are hoping that some former teachers will attend.
“It’ll be a special occasion and we hope to see as many as possible attend,” said Maureen.
The cost is €20 and there will be a buffet on the night. Contact Maureen on 087-6521594 or email balloonaghclassof1994@gmail.com or see their Facebook page, ‘Balloonagh Reunion’.
Fifth Class pupils in Balloonagh back in 1988 when they completed the Road Safety Bicycle Course and were awarded Certificates by Ted Fitzgerald, Chairman of Tralee UDC. Back row from left: Donna Mercer, Fionnuala Casey, Louise Howard, Susan Flaherty, Una Flaherty, Ashling Foley, Kelly Doran, Angela Fitzgerald, Rose Reidy. Middle row from left: Deirdre Moriarty, Melinda Hussey, Madeline Heaslip, Laura Collins, Margaret Fernane, Lorraine Devane, Catherine Bailey, Marian Kirby, Jess Walsh, Margaret Moriarty. Front row from left: Marian Griffin, Maire Lonergan, Bernice O’Sullivan, Sr. Ursula Principal Balloonagh Primary, Mandy Dowling, Maureen Quirke.
Ronan Carey, Alan McEllistrim and Maeve Burke, Transition Year students in Mercy Mounthawk who were part of the class who won the ECO-UNESCO prize in Dublin on Tuesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
GREEN Teens from Mercy Secondary School Mounthawk scooped the Senior Water Prize at ECO-UNESCO’s Young Environmentalist Awards.
The awards ceremony was held in the Round Room of the Mansion House, Dublin on Tuesday, May 20.
In attendance were over 600 young people, Mr. Han Qunli, Director of the Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences and the Secretary of the Man and the Biosphere Programme, Minster for Children and Youth Affairs Charlie Flanagan, Lord Mayor of Dublin Oisín Quinn and the master of ceremonies, Aidan Power.
The group won the category with their project ‘Don’t go with the Flo’ who examined the negative effects that fluoridating our water has on human health.
Their project was two fold; the short term aim was to raise awareness about the dangers of fluoride; their long term aim is to rid Irish water of fluoride.
The group began their awareness campaign by surveying the public to assess their knowledge on fluoride. They then gave talks in their local community on the dangers of fluoride, held public taste tests on fluoridated and unflouridated water, handed out information leaflets and held a bake sale to help raise funds to continue their project.
Their main action plan is to make a series of videos which will appeal to the public and highlight the problem. They also hope to encourage local businesses to go fluoride free by purchasing reverse osmosis filters.
The group was just one of the 75 lucky groups who were selected for the finals from almost 4,000 young people throughout the Republic and Northern Ireland at regional ‘‘Dragons’ Den’’ style ECO-Dens in March.
The annual awards programme run by ECO-UNESCO, Ireland’s environmental education and youth organisation, recognises and rewards young people that carry out local environmental action projects.
The programme has provided thousands of young people, aged 10 -18, an opportunity to take action and raise awareness in their own community on issues that matter the most to them.
ASPEN Grove Solutions, the Irish technology company with global operations in Kerry, UK and the US, has just opened new offices in Castlemaine Rd, Tralee, to support ongoing development.
The company is going from strength to strength and plans to accelerate growth over the next 12-36 months.
Aspen Grove Solutions is a leading provider of enterprise technology solutions that are relied upon by numerous organisations in the financial and mortgage services industry to manage, track and oversee their property assets.
Business operations cover a multitude of disciplines including software development; project management; business analysis, quality assurance, business intelligence, infrastructure, customer support, sales and marketing.
Commenting on the company’s investment in this new facility Aspen Grove Solutions CEO, Seán Ryan, said, “We are proud to be moving into our state-of-the-art facility that has everything we need to deliver world-class solutions to our clients with an added bonus of being conveniently located on Tralee’s new ring road. We are always on the look-out for great technical talent and this facility provides a working environment that has many attractions and one that our team are very proud of. The future is bright for Aspen Grove Solutions and I’m delighted to say that since our last jobs announcement in February 2013 where we said we would take on an extra 20 team members, we have actually increased by 33 and we fully expect to continue to grow out our operations here”.
Kieran Ruttledge, Chief Executive of Tralee Chamber Alliance congratulated Aspen Grove Solutions on their move into the new enlarged premises saying it was a great news story for Tralee
“Aspen Grove Solutions is a fantastic success story for Tralee. They have shown great confidence in the town by committing their future to Tralee. Tralee needs more companies like Aspen Grove Solutions and we celebrate their success and continued support for the area”.
Members of the organising committee of Feile na mBlath, Caroline Toal, Mary Ann Keane and Cllr Johnnie Wall (Chairperson) launching the festival which takes place from Friday, June 20 to Sunday June 22. Photo by Dermot Crean
By Dermot Crean
FROM Teddy Bears Picnics to a Seniors Tea Party, young and old are catered for in the annual Feile na mBlath, which takes place in town from June 20-22.
The festival, sponsored by Kerry Group, has grown from just a regular gathering of botanical enthusiasts into much more over the years, as Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Cllr Johnnie Wall explained.
“It was an idea by John Griffin and John Sheehan from the Town Council about holding a flower show and they asked me would I chair the organising committee. We started off as a flower event but it’s developed over the years into a fantastic family festival,” said Johnnie.
“It’s all about the Town Park and to showcase the beautiful place that it is,” said Johnnie, who stressed that all ages are catered for. He’s not wrong!
Showcasing over 50 events during the weekend, the action kick off on Friday morning where the kiddies are being taken care of with a Teddy Bears Picnic, puppet show, ‘Music Kids’ and Red Cross Juniors.
The official opening takes place at 11.3oam followed by a primary schools entertainment show, craft demonstrations and the Seniors Tea Party in the Grand Hotel at 2.30pm featuring music by the Alfie Curtin Band and Ger O’Donoghue.
Later that night, at 7.30pm, there will be a Voices of Kerry Concert from the Kerry Choral Union.
There are too many events to mention on the Saturday, but some of the highlights include a flower presentation competition, dog show, football blitz, Circus Fanzini, gardening workshops, Red Cross Aid Concert and summer BBQ. And that’s just in the Town Park. There are other family events taking place in the Square.
Sunday sees an open air Mass in the Town Park, a poetry reading, a nature walk and, the highlight, the Pipe Band Gathering and Munster Championships in the Square.
You’re right Johnnie, it isn’t just a flower event anymore!
Keep logging on to TraleeToday.ie over the coming weeks for more updates on the Feile. Oh and say a quick prayer that the weather holds out!
Mayor Pat Hussey and Deputy Mayor Mairead Fernane, at the last ever sitting of Tralee Town Council on Monday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
AND so it ends…
Members of Tralee Town Council came together for the last time on Monday evening and it proved to be an emotional occasion, filled with laughter and tinged with sadness.
Photographs were taken and many memories shared before and after the meeting, which was brief and dealt with the taking over of Knockmoyle estate by the Council as well as other matters which will be now be dealt with by the county authority after June 1.
Mayor Pat Hussey (FG) spoke of the honour it was to sit on the Council, especially as Mayor, in its last year.
He also paid tribute to management and fellow councillors and criticised Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan for not allowing a plebiscite to be held on retaining the Town Council.
Cllr Johnnie Wall (Ind) paid tribute to the Mayor and spoke of his pride in representing the people of Tralee since he was elected in 1985.
“This town is pride and my passion and it’s sad think the chamber which reverberated to the sounds of councillors debating will be no more,” he said, while also complimenting fellow councillors and management.
Cllr Terry O’Brien (Lab) told of his first days as public representative in 1999.
“I learned my trade in that dynamic council. We had a few fine shouting matches but we were all friends after. Over the years the town was always put first and all decisions were taken in its best interests,” he said.
“When I came in here five years ago, I was petrified,” said Cllr Gillian Wharton Slattery (Lab). “I didn’t know what to expect, but I was surprised how everybody blended so well,” she said, telling also of the huge honour it was to serve with fellow councillors.
Cllr Ted Fitzgerald (FF) mentioned the contribution of others down the years.
“It was an honour to work with so many officials and councillors over the years who served the town so well. It’s very sad to see the Council go,” he said.
Cllr Dan Galvin (Lab) said it was “a steep learning curve” coming into the Council three years ago and he praised everybody for pulling together for the good of the town.
Cllr Norma Foley (FF) praised Pat Hussey for his contribution.
“He gave 110% to the job and delivered everything in a gentlemanly way. It’s a sad night presiding over the demise of the Town Council but the town has been served well by management and staff here and I commend the diverse contribution of the councillors down the years,” said Cllr Foley.
“I want to thank my fellow councillors for their camaraderie down the year,” said Cllr Grace O’Donnell (FG). “The management and staff of this building had total commitment to the town,” she said.
“You were a natural in the Mayor’s chair,” Cllr Pa Daly (SF) told Mayor Hussey, before continuing with a smile, “there’s always an invitation for you to join Sinn Fein.” Cllr Daly also praised the Council for “working for the common good of the town.”
Cllr Cathal Foley (SF) said that while it was a sad occasion, the town will go on.
“It’ll be here long after we’re gone. Some say the town is dying, but I think it’s thriving with great facilities,” he said. Cllr Foley also said the Council should be praised for putting roofs over the heads of a lot of Tralee people over the years.
“It was the proudest moment of my life,” said Cllr Mairead Fernane (FG) on being elected to the authority in 2009. “From observing people on the Council it was clear it was all about the town,” she said.
Cllr Sam Locke (Ind) thanked the Mayor for “portraying the town at its best”, and spoke of his first meeting five years ago.
“When you’re coming in alone and you’re not in any party, there is a fear factor. But that was gone after the first meeting. There was unity here. It’s a sad night and a bad night for local democracy,” he said.
At the end of the meeting, hands were shook and well wishes extended to those running for Kerry County Council, on a night that brought a close to 400 years of local government in the town.
The twelve councillors which served on the last ever Tralee Town Council. Front from left; Cllr Cathal Foley (SF), Cllr Ted Fitzgerald (FF), Cllr Pat Hussey (FG), Cllr Johnnie Wall (FF), Cllr Mairead Fernane (FG), Cllr Terry O’Brien (Lab). Back, from left; Cllr Sam Locke (Ind), Cllr Norma Foley (FF), Cllr Pa Daly (SF), Cllr Gillian Wharton Slattery (Lab), Cllr Grace O’Donnell (FG), Cllr Dan Galvin (Lab). Photo by Dermot Crean
Yamaha School of Music Prizewinners Sarah Barry (Piano), Adjudicator Renée Fitzgibbon, Overall Prizewinner Cian Mc Garry (Viola), Principal YSM Declan Walsh, Prizewinner Gerri O’Brien (Singing).
THE Yamaha School of Music Tralee held their 4th annual Student Assessments and Student of the year awards last weekend.
Over 100 students took part, watched on eagerly by their parents and fellow students. Each student performed to the highest standard, being ably adjudicated by Renée Fitzgibbon who was a co-founder of the Yamaha School of Music in Tralee over 25 years ago.
The students ranged in age from 5 to 17, and through the wonderful guidance of their teachers, gave a good account of their year’s work at the Yamaha School of Music.
Twelve students were chosen by Renée from various instrumental categories to go forward to the final of the Student of The Year. This took place on Sunday afternoon, and a great musical treat it was for all who attended.
The eventual winners were Cian McGarry – Viola, Sarah Barry – Piano and Gerri O’Brien – Singing. The three award winners were presented with trophies, and bursaries for the coming year.
All final students were awarded medals for their participation, and every student that took part over the weekend was awarded a certificate of merit.
Principal of the Yamaha School of Music, Mr Declan Walsh, was delighted with the turn out over the weekend. He was very impressed by the standards the students have risen to over the past year, and encouraged for the future of music in Kerry going by the performance of even the youngest student.
Prizewinners Daithí O’Regan, Ciara McCarthy, I.K. Ogunmwyoni, Nosa Ogunmwyoni, Bobby Byrne, Prizewinner Sarah Barry (Piano), Overall Winner Cian Mc Garry (Viola), Prizewinner Gerri O’Brien (Singing), Hugh Murray, Declan Walsh – Pricipal YSM, Evelyn Daly, Eve Creedon, Eidin Dowling.
ASK yourself are you getting the most out of your workouts? Are you summer ready?
Here’s some top tips to help you get that summer body and we also have a free three month gym membership to give away. Read the details below and watch the video to see how to do the exercises…
• Get up 15 minutes earlier
• Start your day with 50 squats and 3 x 30 second planks
• Have a slow release carbohydrate breakfast : 3 Pineapple slices with natural yoghurt
• Cut out carbohydrates after 3pm (lots of veg and protein)
• Drink up to 3.5 ltrs of chilled water daily
• Cut out processed sugars (these are a no-no)
Ready for your 3 week Weight Loss Challenge?
Week 1: (Daily without fail and excuses)
50 squats, 10 push ups, 3 30 second planks, 30 seconds of mountain climbers
Week 2: (Daily without fail and excuses)
75 squats, 20 push up, 5 x30 second planks, 2 x 30 seconds of mountain climbers, 25 tummy crunches
Week 3: (Twice Daily without fail and excuses)
75 squats, 25 push ups, 6 x 30 second planks, 3 x 30 seconds of mountain climbers, 2 x 25 tummy crunches
Send us in your before and after pictures to niall@btsfitness.ie to be in with a chance of winning three months Summer membership to BTS Fitness Club (before photo must be sent in by May 28, after photo by June 19).
Watch the video below for exercise tips…
“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.”
• Niall Hobbert is the Owner and Personal Trainer at BTS Fitness Gym at Manor West
PROFIT is a reliable measurement of a business’ success. Profits are the very lifeblood of a business. They fuel growth, support the owners, provide for the well being of the staff, and ultimately determine the success or failure of the business. So how can you maximise your profits?
Gross profit
One objective is either to expand sales income while controlling direct costs, or reduce direct costs to increase gross profit.
You must ensure that:
• You know your market and your competitors;
• Your product knowledge is complete and you are technically able in all aspects of the business;
• Your service is of high quality, delivered on time and according to specification;
• You take advantage of cost-effective means to increase sales – consider recommendations, promotions, leaflets, press releases and adverts;
• Warning – Be wary of dropping prices to boost sales. The increased volume may not be sufficient to cover the reduced gross profit margin.
• Your direct costs are kept to an absolute minimum. Most businesses should aim to reduce direct costs every year. Look carefully at material and labour costs, as well as production methods. Be flexible and innovative in seeking more cost-effective solutions;
Warning – Before changing a supplier, consider the level of service you are currently receiving as well as the cost.
Consider your gross profit strategies such as the effect of:
• Reducing expenses;
• Increasing the number of items you sell;
• Increasing prices; and
• How much you can increase/decrease sales price to achieve a certain profit.
Overheads
You should also keep costs under your control:
Expenses – Keep your business expenses to an absolute minimum, and ensure that any additional overheads you assume result in increased profitability/efficiency;
Increasing your overheads – Are you satisfied that for all new overheads you have reviewed the market to establish where to place your orders? Reliability and backup service are important factors to take into account. The cheapest may not be the best for your business;
Where assets are acquired on finance – Be sure to obtain quotations for your finance from your suppliers, your bank, and a finance company.
Reviews – Many businesses could benefit from a regular review of their telephone and insurance costs. Even bank charges can often be reduced;
Credit – Control your credit account customers closely to avoid bad debts.
You should also consider the ways of minimising your tax burden e.g.:
Dividend Vs salary Vs bonus;
Getting the timing of receipts and payments;
Admitting a partner/spouse into your business;
Pension and investment planning;
Company car Vs loans; and a number of other strategies!
In summary
You must be aware of your income and expenditure. Proper books and records are essential for monitoring the trends and patterns in your business.
It is not necessary to produce a full profit and loss account every month, rather select the key factors that will best help you understand how you are doing, e.g. chargeable hours, sales volume, wastage, and materials used. Compare these figures with previous months, and with your targets.
• Chris Murray is Practice Manager at Casey & Co Accountants & Auditors. Casey & Co. strive to add real value to your business by providing specialist services in the areas of business start up, restructuring, bank negotiations and succession planning.
INTERMEDIATE CHAMPIONSHIP
We are away to Ardfert in Round 2 June 21st.
CO LEAGUE
John Mitchels 1-12
Castleisland Desmonds 1-14
We started well scoring the first three points playing some very good football and should have gone in at half time more than three points in front. Half time scores John Mitchels 0-8 Desmonds 0-5.
The second half saw Desmonds score 1-6 without reply in the first quarter and this was the story of the half. We came into the game more in the last quarter but never looked like getting back on terms. Robert O’Sullivan with a goal well into injury time still had us two points behind. Final scores John Mitchels 1-12 Castleisland Desmonds 1-14.
Div 1 Junior Co. League
Rd 1 Date TBC
John Mitchels v Kilcummin T.B.C.
Rd 2 Date T.B.C.
Rathmore v John Mitchels at 7pm.
Rd 3 Fri May 23
Strand Road v John Mitchels at 7-30pm.
Rd 4 Fri May 30
John Mitchels v Austin Stacks
Rd 5 Fri June 6
John Mitchels v Killarney Legion
UNDER14 BOYS
All roads led to Currow last Wednesday night for our county league final against Castleisland Desmonds. This game was a thriller from start to finish. In what was a topsy turvy affair we got off the perfect start with early goals from Mikey Kelliher and Tyrese Flaherty and Darrion Hurley and led by 3-2 to 0-0.
However Desmonds rallied strongly and responded with 3 quick fire goals of their own and the sides were soon level . Desmonds dominated for the remainder of the half but a Conor Morrisson goal kept us in it and we went in at half time a point down 5-2 to4-4.
The second half saw us concede goals again early but we got a grip of midfield with Ryan Ward and Kevin Williams coming in to the game strongly and Mikey Kelliher getting through an amount of work up front.
Our hard work was rewarded with another Tyrese Flaherty goal and from there we kicked on with some great point taking. Our backs led by the ever dependable Graham Hudson and Tadgh Broderick snuffed out the Castleisland threat and Dylan O Se in goals pulled off some fine saves to leave us winners on a score line of 5-15 to 6-6. Kerry Coiste Na nog Chairman Tom Keane presented Captain Kevin Williams with the trophy afterwards to the delight of the huge travelling army of Mitchels supporters.
The panel on the night was Donie Dillane, Shane McCarthy, Ross Sugrue, Conor Morrison-O’Brien, Kevin Williams, Ryan Ward, Mikey Kelliher, Dara Sheridan, Tyreese Flaherty, Dylan O’Brien, Craig O’Brien, Cian Barden, Padraig White, Conor Fitzmaurice, James Sheehan, Dylan O’Shea, Sean Gannon, Stephen Bowler, Graham Hudson, James O’Connor, Tadgh Broderick, Padraig O Callaghan, Alex O Se and Darrion Hurley.
We will have a week’s break next week and begin preparations for Feile the following week.
Check the Mitchels page on Facebook for further details.
Under 12 Boys
Training is on every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 6.45pm. It is important that the entire group bring gum shields. For more information phone Brendan Dillane on 086 1742604.
Under 6
We are training on Sunday mornings in camp Ballyseedy. Under the watchful eyes of John, Sean, Tim and Susie and it is great to see such a large number of children who are eager to learn the skills of the game.
U8 Boys
Another great session was had by the U8 boys on Sunday last. Gerard, Daragh, Killian, Aizac, and Ryan really worked hard at improving their skills and at the end of the session they were playing much better. During the game at the end Tony, William, Andrew and James played very well and all the players put in a great effort and it was a very exciting game, well done to all. Next Saturday we have a game in Killarney against the Crokes. Be at our pitch at 9.30 for the bus, with your gear, gum shield, and 2 euro for the bus. There will be no training next Sunday.
UNDER 8 &10 GIRLS
The girls had another great session which included soloing, hand passing and kicking the ball.. The girls are also learning the rules of the game from playing Go Games. Great progress is been shown by all and this week Molly, Brid and Amy have really improved. These girls will be brought to Killarney to play a game on Saturday 24th May.
Bus will leave the complex at 9-45am. A teamer will be issued to all registered players this week. Please reply to the teamer. Training continues Sunday morning between 10.30 and 12 under the watchful eyes of Claire, Patriz, James, Edward, Tony and John. Bring a friend to enjoy our fun and games as we learn the skills of Ladies Gaelic football.
UNDER 10, Boys
Training is on Sunday mornings and great effort is being made by all the players. Training is at 10:30 sharp.
Under 12 Girls
Training continues at Camp Ballyseedy from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday evenings – any new players are more than welcome to attend.
Gaelic4Girls
Gaelic4Girls continues every Wednesday from 6pm – 7pm in our club grounds at Camp Ballyseedy. We have extended the course to 9 weeks & the option to continue playing with either the u8, u10 or u12 girls teams within the club is open to all participants. For more information, contact Rory Kilgallen 087 2352044,Claire O’Sullivan 085 1662997, John McEniry 087 2330392 Fergus McCarthy 087 2568969, Dan O Connor 086 1739465 or the club @ 0667197070.
John Mitchels sports complex.
Our Sports Complex at Camp Ballyseddy is available for bookings on the Sports Hall, All Weather Pitch. The Gym, Sauna and Steam rooms are open from 5pm to 9pm Monday to Friday.
Cost €3 per session for members and €4 for non members. Complex also open for children’s parties. Further information contact Humphrey Shanahan on 0877740275
Champers Restaurant – John Joe Sheehy Road
The John Mitchels Club House and Restaurant on the John Joe Sheehy road is opened to serve the community with good food and warm Hospitality . Our Restaurant is opened daily. Opening hours are from 09.30 to 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday and Sunday 9.30 to 3.00pm.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership is now due and you can give it to Club Registrar Cora McElligott or any other officer who are available to collect your subscription.
COST
Adults €40
Juveniles €20
OAP and unwaged €20
BINGO
Our Bingo continues on Wednesday and Friday nights. Bookings for Parties etc can be made by phoning 066 71 26300.
LAST WEEKS LOTTO
13/5/2014
No winner
Numbers 9-16-24-28
€100 Tony O’Brien c/o Sportsfield Bar.
€25 Helen Leahy c/o Paddy.
€25 Noreen Sheehy c/o Bertie.
€25 Tim Leahy c/o Mickey.
€25 David McLarnon c/o Juivenils.
€25 Gerry Henry c/o Paddy
Next draw 20/5/2014
Jackpot €4,200-00
SYMPATHY
To the Family of Maureen Fitzgerald (nee Cotter) Blackrock & Manor Tralee.
To the Family of Patrick (Paddy) Murphy Kevin Barry Villas. Paddy always had a smile on his face whenever you would meet him and of course we will all remember those famous words “ UP THE MITCHELS”.
To the Family Hannah McDonagh Derrylea
To the Family of James O’Sullivan Derrymore East.
To the Family of Jerry Connolly the Kerries.
After weeks of hard graft, spearheaded by Club Vice Chairman Liam Lynch, our Night at the Dogs is finally upon us. This major Fundraiser, for the new Field purchase and development, takes place at Tralee Greyhound Stadium on this Friday night (23rd May) with the first Race off at 8pm.
It will be a big Family Night with our Juveniles parading the greyhounds before each race and then it’s all back to the Clubhouse afterwards where the music will be provided by the popular Fiddlers Green.
Liam advises patrons to buy their tickets from the Clubhouse before Friday night. Kids are free.
Our thanks to everyone for their generous contributions and support to date, and to all our members and friends who have sold tickets etc during the past few weeks.
SENIOR FOOTBALL
Our Co. League game against Milltown-Castlemaine did not go ahead last week-end with the agreement of both Clubs and the Co. Board. This means that we now have two back games in the League, with the Rathmore game also on hold. Both games are home games for us.
So our next outing will be in the first round of the Co. Championship in Listowel against Feale Rangers on Sunday week (1st June).
HURLING
Austin Stacks 2-15; Duagh 1-5
A very polished display by our lads saw them continue unbeaten in the South Kerry League (game 2 of 4) with a good win in Connolly Park on last Wednesday evening (14th May).
The sides were level on two points each after seven minutes with all four scores coming from frees – Paul Daly on target for us after fouls on Shane Fitzgerald and Ronan Gilsenan. And it was Ronan who was very much involved in the next four scores in a four minute spell (8m to 12m). First he pointed.
Then a brilliant free by Jim McCarthy from his own half back position found Brian Meehan who placed Ronan for a great goal. Then Ronan sent over from an acute angle out near the sideline, and within a minute his goal-bound rasper was tipped over the bar by the Duagh keeper, who made a string of fine saves during the game.
By contrast, the second quarter yielded only three more points – two for us from play by Paul Daly after good work by John McCarthy and Shane Fitzgerald and the third a pointed free for Duagh. This left us ahead by 1-7 to 0-3 at half time.
Both sides had a point each shortly after the resumption – John McCarthy on target us. Then in the 36th minute Duagh gave themselves a life-line when they goaled from a free to leave us just four up (1-8 to 1-4).
But, with all our lads playing superbly, we went on to score a further 1-7 to 0-1 for Duagh to leave us with thirteen points to spare at the end. Our 2nd half goal came from Paul Daly.
It was good to welcome back three players who have been absent for a while – Liam Cleary, David Field and Thomas Meehan – and all three were introduced during the second half with Liam putting over a lovely point in the 54th minute.
Again, all 20 who lined out were outstanding, with Jim McCarthy, on this occasion, having a stormer at centreback.
Team: Peter Doyle, Dylan Crean, Peter O’Regan, Pádraig Lynch, Andrew Morrissey, Jim McCarthy, Michael O’Leary, Shane Fitzgerald, Joe Brennan (0-2), John McCarthy (0-2), Danny Maguire, Eddie Barry, Paul Daly (Capt) (1-7 – 4 frees), Ronan Gilsenan (1-3), Brian Meehan.
Subs used: Seán King (33m), Liam Cleary (42m) (0-1), Kevin O’Leary (47m), David Field (50m), Thomas Meehan (54m).
Game 3 of the League, at home to Kilgarvan, has been put back to next Saturday evening (24th May). Throw in 7pm. The 4th and final round is away to St. Pats (East Kerry) on Wednesday week, 28th May.
TRIP TO KILKENNY
Team Manager Mark Power took his charges on a very useful trip to his home Club, James Stephens in Kilkenny City last Sunday (18th May). They had a number of sessions with some noteable local players and mentors as well as a session with the one and only Brian Cody himself. They also attended a Kilkenny.v. Clare Challenge game which took place that evening. Thanks again to Mark and to everyone in Kilkenny for their hospitality.
MONTH’S MIND MASS
Yesterday (20th) is a month since Trevor Barrett passed away. Trevor’s Month’s Mind Mass takes place at Our Lady and St. Brendan’s Church on this Friday evening (23rd May) at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome to attend.
The Stacks Junior B team who beat Kerins O’Rahilly’s on Friday. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
JUNIOR B FOOTBALL
Austin Stacks 4-13; Kerins O’Rahillys 0-9.
Our B Team had a winning start to their Co. League campaign played in ideal condition in Connolly Park on last Friday evening (16th May). We were in control all through and lead by 1-5 to 0-1 at half time.
With most of the players on the periphery of the Senior team and with Stephen and all his Senior Selectors watching on, all 18 who lined out were anxious to put their best foot forward, which they did.
Apart from our two Minors (Calvin Foley and Louis Ryle), nine were making their first senior start of the season, with a further two (Tom McLoughlin and Nicholas Gogarty) having just had one game under their belts so far.
The display will have pleased, not alone the Senior Team Mentors, but also, more importantly, the team’s own mentors of Colm Mangan, Tim McMahon, John O’Sullivan and Timmy Sheehan.
Action from the Junior game on Friday night. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
All six starting forwards got on the score-sheet on Friday evening as well as the three substitutes who came on during the second half. In all, eleven players scored, including midfielder, Theo Diggin and wingback Tom McLoughlin who took a pass from Brían Mangan’s forty five to slot over from distance.
Mikey Collins got two of our four goals – the first after just two minutes and the other in the 38th minute.
The other two goals are already being lined up as contenders for the Goals of the Season – both scored in spectacular fashion – similar to those two that David Beckham (long ago) and Wayne Rooney (the season just past) scored.
The first was lobbed in by Darren Tiernan (making his Club debut) in the 57th minute and, not to be outdone, hurler cum footballer, Podge Lynch landed a similar effort a minute later.
To keep any Strand Road team from scoring more than nine points is a feat in itself and didn’t happen by accident, as all our back line defended superbly, with Paul Galvin, not for the first time, very impressive. And, in addition, goalkeeper Barry Galvin make at least one splendid save in the 45th minute when a goal at that stage might have launched a Strand Road revival.
Action from the Junior game. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
Team: Barry Galvin, Paul Galvin, David O’Sullivan, Nicholas Gogarty, Tom McLoughlin (0-1), Seamus Bastible, Joseph O’Kelly, Brían Mangan, Theo Diggin (0-1), Dale Counihan (0-1), Darren Tiernan (1-2), Eoin Colgan (Capt) (0-1), Pádraig Lynch (1-0), Michael Collins (2-1), Eamon McAllen (0-3 – 2 frees).
Subs: Kyle Fitzgibbon (ht) (0-1 free), Calvin Foley (39m) (0-1), Louis Ryle (41m) (0-1).
We were due to play Kilcummin in round 2 on this Friday evening ( 23rd May) but this has been put back to another date due to Trevor Barrett’s Month’s Mind Mass (see above). Our thanks to the Kilcummin Club for their co-operation in this matter.
BEST WISHES
Best wishes to three good friends of the Club who have been hospitalized of late – John Mike McCarthy, Jimmy Nolan and Denis ‘Dee Butcher’ O’Regan. We wish all three a full and speedy recovery.
BON VOYAGE
All in the Club, and especially in the Bar, will be sorry to lose the services of the popular Karen Conway. Karen, of course is daughter of Johnny and brother of David, both former Club footballers. Karen, for the time being at any rate, is off to San Francisco in a week or two and we all wish her every success and happiness.
SUNDAY LUNCH
This continues in the Clubhouse every Sunday from 12 to 4pm. Bookings on 066 7126942.
CLUBHOUSE
As always the Clubhouse is available for all types of Parties. Phone Ian from 7pm at 066 7126942 for bookings.
BINGO
The Bingo session will continue on this and every Saturday night at 8.30pm in our Clubrooms.
CARDS
The 45 Card Sessions continue in the Clubhouse every Monday and Thursday nights at 9.30pm.
LOTTO
Last Monday week’s (12th May) Jackpot worth €5,000 was not won. The numbers drawn were 2, 8, 11 and 28.
The €20 prizes went to Pádraig O’Connor c/o The Club; and Brian Morgan, Michael Kenny, Seán Myers and Tom Crowley, all c/o Club Rockies.
SYMPATHY
Sincere sympathy is offered to the families of Gerry Connolly, The Kerries; Hanna McDonagh (nee Diggins), Derrylea and late of Coolarvane, Lixnaw; Colin Dooner, Gort Na Gréine and late of Brighton; Paddy Murphy, Kevin Barry Villas; Maureen Fitzgerald (nee Cotter), Blackrock, Upper Rock St. and late of Manor West; and Mary Fitzgerald, Hawley Park who died during the past week.
