All posts by Dermot Crean

GAA CLUBS

Kerins O’Rahillys GAA News 12/05/2014

Strand RoadJuveniles
U6/8/10: Our U8s took part in the first leg of the U8 Go Games Blitz held in Healy Park on Thursday last. Teams travelled from John Mitchels, Na Gaeil and Austin Stacks and a great showcase of skills was had on the night. Training for this age group continues in Healy Park on Saturdays at 11am.
U8/10 Girls: There was no training on Saturday last due to the bad weather. Training as usual on Saturday next at 11am in Healy Park.
U12s: U12s were due to play Kenmare Shamrocks on Sunday last but the game was switched to Tuesday. No results available.
U12s train in Healy Park Ballyrickard on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4pm. Gum shields have to be worn by each player.
U16s: Our U16s played Austin Stacks in the Kellihers Toyota Central League Final on Monday evening last in St Pats Blennerville.

Austin Stacks had beaten us in the first game of the league so we were on our guard from the start and got our scoring off to a great start with a goal from Evan Doody in the first minute.

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Shooting for goal during the Kerins O’Rahillys V St Michaels Foilmore match on Saturday evening. Photo by Gavin O’Connor

We went on to hold most of the possession throughout the half and get some more fine score from Tom Hoare, Gearóid Savage and Karl Mullins to leave the half time score Kerins O’Rahillys 2-03 to Austin Stacks 1-02.

We started off the second half much like the first with a goal in the first minute this time from Karl Mullins followed by two more from Evan Doody and super sub Seán Hartnett (who had a fine game once introduced).

Austin Stacks did not give in easily and it took some fine defending from Colm Carmody, Darragh McElligott, Ciarán Hattar but in particular Seán Collins who was outstanding on the night to keep them at bay. Shane Foley was as always solid in goals. Further scores in this half from Gearóid Savage who handled an abundance of ball throughout and Karl Mullins saw the final score Kerins O’Rahillys 6-06 to Austin Stacks 2-06.

Captain Tom Hoare was presented with the “Pat Healy Memorial Shield” by Central Region Chairman Liam Ó Rócháin. Gearóid Savage was presented with the “Vincent Murphy Sports” Man of the Match Award by Secretary of the Central Region Damien McCarthy. Well done to all the team and Mentors Norman Foley, Shane Ronan and Adrian Doody.

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Action from the match on Saturday evening. Photo by Gavin O’Connor

Senior Football
Senior County League Division 1 Round 4

Kerins O’Rahillys 2-06

St Michaels/Foilmore 0-10

Kerins O’Rahillys notched up their fourth league win in a row with a hard earned but deserved victory over a tough St Michaels/Foilmore side on a difficult night for football due to the strong & gusting wind.

Playing with the aid of the elements in the first half, St Michaels/Foilmore were first on the score sheet but we soon equalised from a free by Declan Quill following a foul on his younger brother Ronan and hit the front shortly after with a great goal by midfielder Kevin Walshe who found the top corner of the net following a neat one two with Barry John Keane.

Further points followed from Declan Quill, Barry John Keane and a “45” from Jack Savage to leave us leading by 1-04 to 0-03 approaching the short whistle.

A great team move saw the ball reach Kieran O’Mahony on the edge of the square and he found the net with a low shot to give us a half time lead if 7 points, 2-04 to 0-03.

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Action from the Kerins O’Rahilly’s V St Michael’s Foilmore league match on Saturday evening. Photo by Gavin O’Connor

The first ten minutes of the second half were tit for tat with Jack Savage and Declan Quill frees in answer to St Michaels/Foilmores 3 pts; we were not to score again due to a combination of bad luck and the strong winds whilst St Michaels/Foilmore tacked on another 3 points to leave the full time score of Kerins O’Rahillys 2-06 to St Michaels/Foilmore 0-10 points.

This was a great win with each and everyone playing their part including subs- it was also heartening to get back on the winning trail following last weeks disappointment in the club championship. We travel to Waterville next week and hope that some of our absentees tonight will be available next week.

Mouth-Guards: As you may be aware it will be compulsory for all players senior right down to juvenile to wear mouth-guards at training sessions and when playing games. This comes into effect for seniors from 1st January 2014 and has been in effect for all others since last January. If players fail to wear mouth guards they will not be permitted to participate in football training or matches. No mouthguard No game! Further information on this rule can be found online at http://www.gaa.ie.

Club Membership
Senior Committee will be in contact with you shortly about your 2014 membership. We will be asking that you consider putting your membership on direct debit to help cut down on administration. Please contact any committee member for details.

Ladies Football
Junior Ladies: Our Junior ladies played their final game in the Co League against Rathmore on Sunday last. Despite some outstanding saves from goalkeeper Nicola Horan and great defending from Erika Quill, Oonagh O’Sullivan, Ciara Neenan and Natasha O’Regan Rathmore were able to put scores on the board.

Fine runs upfield and fine scores from Emma McCarthy and Shauna Hanafin as well as a well taken goal by Rachel O’Connor were not enough for us to breech the gap and Rathmore left victors on the day.

U14/U16 Girls: U16 County League Kerins O’Rahillys 2-03 Moyvane 4-01
There was a very strong wind when the game started and as we lost the toss we had to play against it. Moyvane took an early lead with the wind at their backs and at half time we were trailing by 3 goals. We came back well with goals from Eimear Ellard and Shannon Quill but Moyvane scored another goal and pulled away again. The girls battled on but at the final whistle Moyvane were the victors. Final score Moyvane 4-01 Kerins O’Rahillys 2-03. Other players to impress were Megan McBride and Hannah Stack. U14 and U16 Ladies train every Tuesday at 6.15 in Ballyrickard.

U12: Girls U12 girls play their first games in the second phase of the Co League this week. The first was away to Firies on Tuesday. Their next game will be at home to Laune Rangers on Tuesday the 20th.

Happy Birthday
Birthday wishes this week go to Jonathon Lyons (all round volunteer with the club).

Good Luck
Best of luck to our own Rosie McGrath who is representing the Oyster Tavern in the upcoming “Kerry Rose” selection. Rosie was the best dressed lady at our club social so we hope it was the start of her winning year!

Lotto
The Lotto takes place in Charlie’s Bar every Monday. The Lotto results for Monday the 5th of April were 9, 10, 21 and 28. There was no jackpot winner; the next jackpot will be €5,000. There were no match 3 winners. Five entrants for December draw were Mary Fitzgerald c/o Mrs O’Brien, Maureen Fleming c/o Mrs O’Brien, Sheila Coen c/o Pat, Darren Cane c/o Ann and Mags and Seán c/o Seán Kissane. To play the Kerins O’Rahillys Lotto, four numbers are selected from 1 to 28. If anybody matches the four numbers selected on the night he/she wins the Jackpot. Match three numbers to win €25. Tickets cost €2 each. The Kerins O’Rahillys Lotto can also be played online at www.korgaa.com
Lotto Sellers The club needs lotto ticket sellers. It can be worth your while. If you are interested contact any member of the Senior Committee.

Charlie’s Bar
Club Lotto on takes place in the bar every Monday night with a special in house raffle if you are present so why not pop along. Why not treat yourself to lunch in Charlie’s. There’s something to please everyone. Weightwatchers takes place in the Healy Room every Thursday and have now changed to “winter” times. Classes now take place at 9.30am, 12.30 and 5.30pm.

The Active Retired Coffee Morning Group meets every Tuesday morning in Charlie’s. Come along and keep in touch with old friends and make new friends. All welcome. “Dance for Fun” is back! It takes place in the Bistro from 8-9.30pm every Wednesday. All welcome. We have many different size function rooms and cater to all types of function. Contact Tom or Eileen or any member of staff at 7124956 if you have any queries.

Card Drive
Attention card players there will be a “Whist drive” on Thursday the 15th in the club and the “45” card drive in club house on Friday the 16th. Tables of 6. Bring a friend. All welcome.

Sympathies
Sincere Sympathy is expressed to the family of Gerry Connolly, The Kerries Tralee, James (Jimmy) O’Sullivan Derrymore East Tralee, Brendán O’Connell, Tonevane Tralee, Paddy Moriarty, Oakview Village Tralee, and Gerry Jameson, Abbeydorney Tralee. May they rest in Peace.

P.R.O Contact
If you have any thing you feel is of interest for the Kerins O’Rahillys notes please get in touch. You can contact me at pro.kerinsorahillys.kerry@gaa.ie. Why not join our Facebook group to keep up to date with all fixtures and what is going on in the club. Just follow the following link https://www.facebook.com/groups/Narries/​

News Archive, SCHOOLS

Video: CBS Pupils Get ‘Happy’

2 Comments

SO now the pupils of CBS Primary School are getting in on the ‘Happy’ vibe.

With the huge success of the Ballybunion ‘Happy’ video on Youtube, the pupils of Michelle Culloty’s third class decided to make their own version in the school on Friday last.

“They had an absolute ball making it, they really let loose” said Michelle, who put the link on the CBS facebook page on Monday morning, where it had been shared nearly 30 times by the end of the school day.

“One of the pupils was talking about the Ballybunion video and suggested we make our own. It took about two hours to film and I edited it down on my iPad,” continued Michelle.

“The pupils were absolute stars and some of the staff, including the principal, took part as well. They’re mad to make more videos now!”

“We shot some of it in Applegreen across the road and the staff there were great. Martin Ferris was there at the time but we couldn’t convince him to take part,” she said.

And here is the finished product…

CBS Primary Tralee are Happy! from Michelle Culloty on Vimeo.

Beauty&Fashion, Entertainment, News

Rose Hopefuls Take A Tour Of Kerry

IF you were out and about in the county on Saturday, chances are, you were presented with a bunch of Roses.

The Kerry Rose contestants went on a day-long tour of the county to promote the upcoming selection which takes place on May 23 in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel.

They gathered at the hotel before heading into Tralee to visit Garvey’s Supervalu, the Town Park and the County Museum. Castleisland was the next stop for a look at the fashions in Hannon’s Boutique before embarking for Killarney.

While there, they took in the views at Muckross House, a walkabout in the town centre and off then to Sammy’s Bar and Restaurant in Inch.

The wild west beckoned with a trip to Dingle Oceanworld and a reception in Adams Bar before returning to the vale of Tralee for a spot of bowling in Bowling Buddies.

It was good training for them, because if you want to become a Rose, stamina and endurance will be needed for all these social occasions!

Scroll down for photos…

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The Kerry Rose contestants 2014, with last year’s Kerry Rose, Gemma Kavanagh (front, fifth from left).
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2014 Kerry Rose Entrants with Reinning Kerry Rose Gemma Kavanagh and the Kerry Rose selection staff attending a function at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium on Saturday night. ©www.deniswalshphotography.com
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Look out below! The Kerry Rose contestants at the Kerry County Museum on Saturday morning.
Business/Property, News

Sean Helps Ireland To World Cup Glory

Sean Taaffe World Cup
Photographed in Frankfurt are Sean Taaffe and his hair model Hannah McArdle. Photo: Absolute Studio

SEAN Taaffe, the owner of Sean Taaffe Hair and Beauty Group who have a salon on Castle Street, has helped Ireland to a World Cup ‘bronze’.

Sean – along with his colleagues from Team Ireland – took third place overall in the OMC World Cup in Hairdressing in Frankfurt last weekend. This prestigious international placing, is the second major accolade for the successful Kerry based hair and beauty group in recent months, with their Style Director, Marta Plechowska, scooping the 2014 IHF Irish Hairdresser of the Year in March.

“Winning at the World Championships in Germany was the culmination of many months of careful preparation and sheer determination to bring back a medal to Ireland – and to Kerry!” said Sean.

The Sean Taaffe Group has salons in Killorglin and Killarney and Tralee and currently employs 42 people across its seven businesses.

The OMC World Cup in Hairdressing took place in Frankfurt, Germany from May 3-5. Over 1,300 competitors competed in 38 tests with 50 countries in the event. There were 13 Irish competitors from all over the country and they competed in six tests, with excellent placements in all categories.

News Archive

Cleaning Up Our Coasts

No Repro Fee 30-4-14 Picture shows at the launch of Coca Cola Clean Coasts Week 2014 on Portmarnock Strand was from left Erica Roseingrave, Public Affairs & Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Hellenic Ireland;rugby legend Shane Byrne, Managing Director of Waste Company AWD Group; Annabel FitzGerald, Coastal Programmes Manager, An Taisce; and Minister Fergus O’Dowd TD Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government.Pic:Naoise Culhane-no fee A call for volunteers to join Ireland’s largest coastal clean-up and ensure Ireland’s beaches are in ship shape was made today by An Taisce’s Clean Coasts programme. That call was echoed by rugby legend Shane Byrne, Managing Director of Waste Company AWD Group who lined out at the launch of Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week. Clean Coasts Week 2014 takes place from May 9th to May 18th and members of the public are invited to jump on board to make it the biggest yet.@CleanCoasts #cleancoastsweek Pic:Naoise Culhane-no fee
At the launch of Coca Cola Clean Coasts Week 2014 on Portmarnock Strand was from left; Erica Roseingrave, Public Affairs & Communications Manager, Coca-Cola Hellenic Ireland; rugby legend Shane Byrne, Managing Director of Waste Company AWD Group; Annabel FitzGerald, Coastal Programmes Manager, An Taisce; and Minister Fergus O’Dowd TD Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government.

CLEAN Coasts Week is already underway and a number of events are taking place in the county over the next few days.

Organised by An Taisce’s the week sees hundreds of clean coasts events being organised around the country but if you want to get involved in Kerry, here’s where to go.

• Ventry – Dingle Oceanworld will be doing a clean-up of Ventry Beach on Saturday, May 17 at 11am. Volunteers to meet at Ventry Beach Car Park directly beforehand.

• Whale Watch – Irish Dolphin and Whale Group: A morning of whale and dolphin watching off Slea Head, Co. Kerry. No booking required, event is Saturday, May 17 from 10am to 12pm in car park on Slea Head along the R559 (Lat 52° 05.86 ‘ N, Long 10°27.03 ‘ W).

• Ballybunnion – Clean up of Ballybunnion beach on Thursday May 15 at 4pm. Volunteers to meet at the Lifeguard station directly beforehand.

• Rossbeigh Beach – Glenbeigh  Community Council will be doing a clean-up of Rossbeigh Beach on the 14th May at 6pm. Volunteers will meet at the end of tarred toad on Rossbeigh Beach directly beforehand.

• National #2minutebeachclean Day – Saturday May 17th
Clean Coasts are delighted to be holding Ireland’s first ever national #2minutebeachclean day as part of Coca-Cola Clean Coasts Week. The aim is to engage as many people as possible in this BIG IMPACT initiative.

On Saturday they are asking everyone who goes to the beach whether it’s for a surf, swim or walk to do their very own #2minutebeachclean. Take a snap of the litter collected and post your snap on instagram/twitter/facebook with the tags @cleancoasts #2minutebeachclean.

It’s as easy as that and be in with a chance to win a Clean Coasts hoodie!
To register a clean-up or find out more about Clean Coasts coastal celebration events please visit www.cleancoastsweek.ie or @CleanCoasts #cleancoastsweek

GAA CLUBS

Austin Stacks Juvenile GAA News

Austin StacksNótaí na nÓg

PEIL FAOI 6: (i) Our Thursday night summer football session got off to a grand start last week and we’ll have more of the same on Thursday next. Venue: Connolly Park. Starting time: 5:45pm. Bígí ann! (ii) Sunday morning as usual at 11.00am….in Caherslee.

PEIL FAOI 8: (i) The Kerins-O’Rahilly Club Under 8 blitz was a great success on Thursday last and next Thursday will see similar action….at 5.45pm. Expect text. (ii) Traenáil arís eile on Sunday at 11.00am in Caherslee.

PEIL FAOI 10: (i) More GoGames on Thursday last…mórbhuíochas le Club Kerins-O’Rahilly. (ii) Our Thursday evening summer football continues this week. Ionad: Connolly Park. An t-am: 5:45pm. (iv) Training as usual in Caherslee at 11.00am on Sunday.

PEIL FAOI 12: (i) On Sunday last our As and Bs played enjoyable matches v Raonaithe na Leamhna. Silken skills once more on display! Maith sibbh, a bhuachaillí agus a bhainisteoirí! (ii) Under 12 fixtures on www.austinstacks.ie (Faoi 12…24th March).

PEIL FAOI 14: (i) Commiserations to our gallant Club Rockies Under 14B team that went down to an extremely strong Dr Crokes outfit on Wednesday 7th in the semi-final of the League. The game was played in perfect conditions in Connolly Park. Our lads opened well and were five points up at the break. However, despite trailing at half time, the Killarney boys put on the pressure in the second half and were ahead at the finish.

After an unbeaten run in the League proper, this was a cruel time for our lads to experience their first defeat. Best for us on the night were David Oba, Craig Ó Tíocháin, Niall Fitzmaurice, David Burke and Andrew Breen. Thanks, lads, for giving us some great games! These brave players will undoubtedly rise again! (ii) On the main pitch our Barry’s Bakery A Squad emerged winners on a scoreline of 11-11 to 1-11 against a sporting and well drilled Legion Killarney side that, despite what the scoreboard might suggest, gave an exhibition of attacking and skillful football from start to finish.

Despite not being able to call on the services of Cian Hill, Conor Myers and Pádhraic Linnane, due to injuries, all our panel played well. Those to shine included David Couchman, Dara Barry-Walsh, James Quigley, Eoghan Carroll, Joe Looby, Seán Quilter, Captain Donagh McMahon, Dylan Ó Cathasaigh, Gearóid Ó Síocháin and Seán Ó Cearmada.

They now find themselves in the County League Division 1 Under 14 County Final against our neighbours, Churchill, who themselves fashioned a fine victory in their semi-final against a fancied Laune Rangers outfit in Killorglin. Final date: Wednesday 14th. Venue: BLENNERVILLE. Result on www.austinstacks.ie. Our final line-out: Gearóid Ó Clúmháin; Donncha Mac Mathúna, Cian an Chnoic, Séamus Ó Coigligh; Dara de Barra-Breathnach, Dylan Ó Cathasaigh (an captaen), Mícheál Ó Gadhra; Gearóid Mac Gearailt, Seán Ó Cearmada; Conchúr Ó hUigín, Seán Cuiltéir, Seosamh Ó Lúbaigh; Conchúr Ó Mír, Mícheál Ó Slatara, Eoghan Ó Cearúill; Daithí Óba, Pádhraic Ó Lionnáin, Seán Mac Craith, Gearóid Ó Síocháin, Dean Ó Scannláin, Daithí Couchman, Liam Ó Nualláin, Oisín Liostún, Daithí de Búrca, Eimhín Ó Meachair, Jordan Ó Sé. Bainisteoirí/roghnóirí: Michael “Chips” Clifford, Michael Casey, Dave Scanlon, Gene O’Donnell, Paudie McQuinn. (iii) Finally, a word of thanks to all the parents and followers who have faithfully supported both teams during the League…go raibh mile maith agaibh!

IOMÁNAÍOCHT & PEIL FAOI 14: Comhghairdeachas to young dual players Craig Ó Tíocháin (mac leis an iar-iománaí Pádraig), David Couchman and Michael Slattery who were part of the Abbeydorney under 14 hurling team that won the recent Kerry Féile final. Hurling/football double Féile victories in 2014! Nice…and all in Black and Amber!! This is Michael’s third Kerry Féile medal as he has also been a stalwart on our victorious Féile football championship team in 2013! P.S. Are the days of star Rock hurlers returning?

BÓITHRÍN NA SMAOINTE: Our Féile Peile na nÓg 2013 panel: Eoin Lynch, Shane Walsh, Robbie Murphy, Cian Holden, Donagh Mac Iomhargáin, Dylan Ó Cathasaigh, Pádraig Ó Luanaigh, Gearóid Ó Síocháin, Alan Dore, Shane Kelliher, Dean Ó Conaill, Simon Draghici, Dara Ó Súilleabháin, Michael O’Gara, Cian Talbot, Tomás Sheehy, Michael Slattery, Gearóid Mac Gearailt, Tom Crowley, Conor Lowe, David Fitzmaurice, Hugh Healy, Odhrán Liston, Michael Linnane, Joe O’Connor, Ciarán O’Reilly, Donagh McMahon, Harry O’Callaghan, Evan O’Connor, Ciarán Killeen,. What a weekend they had in Ulster! They won v Swatragh (Doire) and Sarsfields (Cill Dara) but were beaten by Ballinascreen (Doire). They visited Páirc na gCeilteach and the Bogside and were hosted at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains. Saoire dá saol!

PEIL FAOI 16: (i) Under 16A team played outstanding football in the Central League division 1 final but were unlucky on the scoreboard. AdeS: 2-6; K-O’R: 6-6. Mí-ádh, a leaideanna! (ii) Under 16B boys won the division 3 semi-final. AdeS: 1-11; Na Mistéalaigh: 3-4. Ar fheabhas, a bhuachaillí! Our Bs will face Churchill in the division 3 final. Up The Rock!

NA SCRÚDUITHE STÁIT: Best wishes to all who’re heading into exam-time.

MIONÚIR CHIARRAÍ: Comhghairdeachas lenár n-imreoir Jack Ó Muireagáin agus le foireann Chiarraí a ghnóthaigh áit i gCraobhchluiche na Mumhan.

News Archive

Kingdom County Fair Gets Lucky With The Weather

Baby Paudie Hayles, Tralee, who won the Overall prize at the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday with parents Karen and Niall. Photo by Dermot Crean
Baby Paudie Hayles, Tralee, who won the Overall Prize at the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday with parents Karen and Niall. Photo by Dermot Crean

THOUSANDS descended on Ballybeggan Racecourse on Sunday for another great Kingdom County Fair.

“We were very lucky with the weather,” said Organising Secretary, Mary Barry. “Saturday was a disaster and we thought we’d be rained out, but Sunday was a great day, thankfully,” said Mary.

The venue had something for everyone with an area of bouncy castles and ‘hurdy-gurdys’ to keep young children entertained, food stalls, arts and crafts stands, a bonny baby competition, not to mention all the animal competitions going on.

Of course there were many agricultural stands and horse enthusiasts were spoiled for choice with the amount of equestrian events taking place.

There was a stiff breeze but everybody was enjoying the sunshine and agreed the show is still going strong after 65 years.

Scroll down for photos…

Sean O'Connor, Beaufort, with his pedigree Suffolk ewe lamb, winner of Champion Sheep of the Show at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sean O’Connor, Beaufort, with his pedigree Suffolk ewe lamb, winner of Champion Sheep of the Show at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
In front; Geraldine, Shane and Sinead Cassidy with, at back Eilish O'Sullivan, Aoife Geraldine, Darragh and Brian Cassidy at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
In front; Geraldine, Shane and Sinead Cassidy with, at back Eilish O’Sullivan, Aoife Geraldine, Darragh and Brian Cassidy at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
The Fitzmaurice clan from Abbeydorney at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. In front; Nicole, Luke and Ellen.At back; Grace, Michelle, Ashling and Tom. Photo by Dermot Crean
The Fitzmaurice clan from Abbeydorney at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. In front; Nicole, Luke and Ellen.At back; Grace, Michelle, Ashling and Tom. Photo by Dermot Crean
Jennifer O'Carroll, Vincent Reidy and little Hannah Reidy, at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Jennifer O’Carroll, Vincent Reidy and little Hannah Reidy, at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Deirdre Heffernan with 'Harley', Tracey Teahan and Ava Teahan, Tralee, at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Deirdre Heffernan with ‘Harley’, Tracey Teahan and Ava Teahan, Tralee, at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Carina and Simon Oddie with children Charlie and Jamie at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Carina and Simon Oddie with children Charlie and Jamie at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Michael Daly on 'Greenlawn Butterfly' takes flight at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Michael Daly on ‘Greenlawn Butterfly’ takes flight at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Bryan Enright and Giles Kelliher at the Kelliher’s Farm, Garden and Pet Supplies Stand at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Noelle and Trevor West with Laura, Graham and Sarah at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Noelle and Trevor West with Laura, Graham and Sarah at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Little Jamie Joyce, Beale, Ballybunion who won the 0-1 Year Boys Section of the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday with parents Billy and Betty, and sisters Ava and Katie. Photo by Dermot Crean
Little Jamie Joyce, Beale, Ballybunion who won the 0-1 Year Boys Section of the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday, with parents Billy and Betty, and sisters Ava and Katie. Photo by Dermot Crean
Denis Cross from Waterville, with his daughter Mary Elizabeth who won the 0-1 Year Girls Section of the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Denis Cross from Waterville, with his daughter Mary Elizabeth who won the 0-1 Year Girls Section of the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Little Holly Fealey from Brosna, who won the 1-2 Years Girls Section at the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday, with mother Rose. Photo by Dermot Crean
Little Holly Fealey from Brosna, who won the 1-2 Years Girls Section at the Bonny Baby contest at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday, with mother Rose. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kelly Schleis and Gaulia Sessarego taking a look the sheep during the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kelly Schleis and Gaulia Sessarego taking a look the sheep during the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Karen Cross from Waterville at the Magical Creations stand at at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Karen Cross from Waterville at the Magical Creations stand at at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ellen Hamilton, Declan Moore, Margaret Moore and young Ryan Moore from Derry at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ellen Hamilton, Declan Moore, Margaret Moore and young Ryan Moore from Derry at the Kingdom County Fair on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

 

Entertainment, News

Marking 40 Years Of Siamsa Tire

Fr Pat Ahern with the plaque he unveiled to mark the 40th anniversary of the founding of Siamsa Tire at a special celebration on Sunday. Photo by Domnick Walsh
Fr Pat Ahern with the plaque he unveiled to mark the 40th anniversary of the founding of Siamsa Tire at a special celebration on Sunday. Photo by Domnick Walsh

SIAMSA Tire members, past and present, enjoyed a fantastic evening of entertainment on Sunday to mark the organisation’s first 4o years in existence.

It was particularly special for Fr Pat Ahern, the Moyvane priest, who started it all off back in 1974 and has seen it grow to become an Irish institution.

“We’re celebrating the 40th anniversary this year and this is the first of a series of events to mark that milestone,” said Catriona Fallon, General Manager of Siamsa Tire.

There was a reception in the main hallway of the building before Fr Pat unveiled a plaque outside the front entrance, marking the anniversary.

There was also an opportunity to view the Radharc television programme, Bímis ag Rince, which documented the building of Teach Siamsa in Finuge and the founding of the National Folk Theatre.

Speaking about the 40th celebrations, Artistic Director of Siamsa Tíre, Jonathan Kelliher, said: “There will be much to celebrate in 2014, four decades since Fr Pat Ahern and the late Martin Whelan were appointed as the first Artistic Director and General Manager respectively. Finuge was where the training of young people in the unique Siamsa style began and this training in music, dance, song and movement continues to lead to the creation of enchanting narratives to the present day.”

An exhibition of images, archive video footage and memories from the past 40 years will be displayed in the gallery space from the end of May while a number workshops and lectures will also feature in this year’s Festival of Folk.

Siobhan Clifford, Sean Hanafin, Helen Hurley, Valerie Kerins, Adrienne Heaslip at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Siobhan Clifford, Sean Hanafin, Helen Hurley, Valerie Kerins, Adrienne Heaslip at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Fr Pat Ahern with three generations of the O'Shea family, at back, Michael O'Shea, Catherine O'Shea, in front, Trisha Begley and Katie Ross at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Fr Pat Ahern with three generations of the O’Shea family, at back, Michael O’Shea, Catherine O’Shea, in front, Trisha Begley and Katie Ross at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sharon Walsh, Tim Moran, Emma Lynch and Michael Lynch at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sharon Walsh, Tim Moran, Emma Lynch and Michael Lynch at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Dan Ahern, Maire Mhic Giolla Rua, Anne O'Donnell and Brian Caball at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Dan Ahern, Maire Mhic Giolla Rua, Anne O’Donnell and Brian Caball at the Siamsa Tire celebration on Sunday. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

 

News Archive

Photos: Battling The Elements For Fenit Lifeboat

OVER 30 brave souls went out in the driving wind and rain to raise funds for Fenit Lifeboat on Saturday morning from O’Donnell’s Mounthawk.

Unfortunately, the elements were very much against the participants, but it’s vital that these events are held.

“The cycle is very important for us,” said Tom McCormack, Chairman and Medical Officer of Fenit Lifeboat. “It raises about €8,000 every year for the Lifeboat.”

“We have a number of fundraising events every year because to run a Lifeboat station is very expensive,” said Gerard O’Donnell, the Lifeboat Operations Manager. “A call-out would cost about €8,500, between the the boat costs, training etc, so these fundraising events are very important.”

The cyclists set off at 10.30pm and went to Farranfore, Castleisland and back to O’Donnell’s Mounthawk for refreshments and to dry off. Well done to all involved.

Scroll down for photos…

Cyclists about to head out on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Cyclists about to head out on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Tom Shanahan, Tralee, Annie Horgan, Tralee, Leanne McCarthy, Tralee and Mark Ryall, Lixnaw before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Tom Shanahan, Tralee, Annie Horgan, Tralee, Leanne McCarthy, Tralee and Mark Ryall, Lixnaw before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
MaeveO'Donnell signs up Paul Truslove, Ballymac for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
MaeveO’Donnell signs up Paul Truslove, Ballymac for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
John O'Sullivan, Caherslee and Ruairi Buckley, Tralee before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
John O’Sullivan, Caherslee and Ruairi Buckley, Tralee before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan and his wife Maura, before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan and his wife Maura, before taking off on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ruth and Gerard Concannon, The Spa, get ready for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ruth and Gerard Concannon, The Spa, get ready for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Michael Hilliard, Camp and Michelle Hilliard, Castlegregory, ready for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Michael Hilliard, Camp and Michelle Hilliard, Castlegregory, ready for the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Liz Grey, Tralee, ready to battle the elements on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O'Donnell's, Mounthawk on Sunday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Liz Grey, Tralee, ready to battle the elements on the annual cycle in aid of Fenit Lifeboat from O’Donnell’s, Mounthawk on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

Lifestyle, News

Photos: First Communion Day For Scoil Eoin And Presentation Pupils

THE wind and rain failed to quench the excitement of well over 100 pupils from Scoil Eoin and Presentation Primary School on Saturday as they celebrated a milestone moment in their lives.

Proud parents and family looked on as the youngsters made their First Holy Communion in the shelter of at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church and St John’s Church.

Afterwards they posed for photographs before leaving for private celebrations.

Scroll down for photos…

Jack Murphy, making his First Holy Communion on in Our Lady And St Brendan's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Benny and Clare and brothers Ben and Harry. Photo by Dermot Crean
Jack Murphy, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Benny and Clare and brothers Ben and Harry. Photo by Dermot Crean
Diarmaid Kelly, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Dermot and Edel and brother Riain. Photo by Dermot Crean
Diarmaid Kelly, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Dermot and Edel and brother Riain. Photo by Dermot Crean
Luke Healy, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Cora and Chris. Photo by Dermot Crean
Luke Healy, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Cora and Chris. Photo by Dermot Crean
Anna McCarthy, Leah McLysaght and Lily Ryan from Scoil Eoin, making their First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan's Church on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Anna McCarthy, Leah McLysaght and Lily Ryan from Scoil Eoin, making their First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning. Photo by Dermot Crean
Stephen O'Shea, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Alan and Karim. Photo by Dermot Crean
Stephen O’Shea, making his First Holy Communion in Our Lady And St Brendan’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Alan and Karin. Photo by Dermot Crean
Caoilinn Hickey, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Michael and Orla and sister Aoife. Photo by Dermot Crean
Caoilinn Hickey, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Michael and Orla and sister Aoife. Photo by Dermot Crean
Alanna Looby Lugandu, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Fabien and Cassandra. Photo by Dermot Crean
Alanna Looby Lugandu, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Fabien and Cassandra. Photo by Dermot Crean
Nicola Barin, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with parents Kinga and Miroslov and sister Amelia. Photo by Dermot Crean
Nicola Barin, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with parents Kinga and Miroslov and sister Amelia. Photo by Dermot Crean
Keelin O'Shea, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with sister Niamh and mother Sinead. Photo by Dermot Crean
Keelin O’Shea, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with sister Niamh and mother Sinead. Photo by Dermot Crean
Clodagh Dowling, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with her mother Teresa and grandmother Marie Dowling. Photo by Dermot Crean
Clodagh Dowling, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with her mother Teresa and grandmother Marie Dowling. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kayleigh Ozdemir, who made her First Holy Communion in St John's Church on Saturday morning, with her parents Elaine and Sertan, baby sister Ria and brother Kyle. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kayleigh Ozdemir, who made her First Holy Communion in St John’s Church on Saturday morning, with her parents Elaine and Sertan, baby sister Ria and brother Kyle. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

DINING OUT, Entertainment

Out To Lunch: The Roast House

Roast House

The Roast House

Denny Street

LET’S, for a moment, talk about quality.

The recession, for all its misery and hardship, did us favour by weeding out stylish-looking cafes, serving up over-priced, mediocre meals, so mangy they wouldn’t choke a duck.

But hey, once Zero 7 was playing in the background we were cool. Starving, but cool. Right?

The backlash over the past few years was almost as bad. Parsimony was the special of the day and the cheaper and more cheerful the lunch, the more people liked to brag about getting a bargain – despite the lack of flavour in the meal.

Thankfully, there are a number of places in town, still flying the flag for quality food in stylish surroundings.

Darcy’s in Barrack Lane is the best of these establishments in town for evening meals (more on them in another review) but The Roast House has been growing its reputation for great flavours and inventive menus since it opened last year.

When you enter, the interior is initially bright but as you go into the main seating area, the natural light diminishes. Thankfully, it’s so tastefully decorated, it makes it a cosy and stylish place to meet.

The menu is full of goodies like ‘pea, spring onion and herb risotto with Desmond cheese crisp’, ‘Moroccan spiced lamb tagine, served with couscous, mint yoghurt and toasted almonds’, and ‘homemade beef burger, smoked gubbeen  cheese, tomato relish and onion with red cabbage coleslaw, salad and chunky chips’ to name but a few lunch options.

I went for the salad of free range chicken, chorizo, potato and garlic croutons, mixed leaves and a honey and mustard dressing.

The salad was dressed tastefully with the flavours of honey and mustard coming through just enough – too many salads are almost drowned in dressing these days.

The chicken was fresh and not dry, the chorizo spicy, but not enough of it for my liking and the croutons were delicious – the diced potato is a nice addition. Two slices of delicious sweet-tasting bread on the side made sure you wouldn’t leave hungry.

A really good cappuccino rounded off the meal which cost €14.20 in all.

That may seem a bit steep for coffee and a salad, but if the food is this good in such comfortable surroundings, it’s worth it.

Style, substance and quality.

4/5

 

 

Business/Property

Business: The Four Golden Rules Of Advertising

Helen Burns 1Helen Burns, a certified Business Coach with ActionCOACH, the World’s #1 Business Coaching Franchise, gives advice on advertising strategy…

We are all exposed to vast amounts of advertising from global organisations with very deep pockets. They focus on brand awareness and have budgets of several hundreds of millions annually to do so!

They typically wait years before they get a return on their investments.

So the likes of Apple, Coca Cola and BMW aside, the rest of us need to invest in ads that sell! That means you need to see a return on your investment within weeks or months and you need to know what’s working for you and what’s not.

For many people, writing ads is a hit and miss affair. You may have heard the saying “50% of my marketing works and 50% doesn’t. I just don’t know which is which is which!”

By testing and measuring, the success rate can be increased dramatically. But there is another way to get a head start on writing the ideal advertisement. It is one of the oldest and one of the best formulas for writing ads- AIDA; which stands for Attention – Interest – Desire and Action.

Attention
Your advertising piece must grab your target audiences’ attention. You could have a great copy but if it doesn’t get the attention of your target market in the first place it will be a flop.

The top 20% of your advertisement is the most important so spend time on getting your headline right. Here are some Headline Do’s and Don’ts;
Use your name! (name and contact details go at the bottom)

• Use the word You
• Use a loop
• Qualify the right reader
• Sell the benefits

Here are some headline examples:
How you can… 7 Reasons Why…
Here’s how… Attention all “Reader Group”
Announcing…. At Last….

Interest
Once you’ve gotten their attention, you need to keep them interested. One of the most effective ways to do this is by talking about the benefits.

What problem are you going to solve for them. Remember all prospects listen to one station- WIIFM (what’s in it for me). So spell it out here. If you have a special offer mention it here. Keep the layout and font simple and easy to read. A fussy ad just puts off readers.

Desire
Now that you have their interest you need to build their desire. Desire is about building a vision of what life could be like if they buy your product or service. Expand on your great offer if you have one, use sizzling words and testimonials, and highlight benefits.

Action
At the end of the ad you need to tell them exactly what to do to fulfil that desire. Be specific and make it easy e.g. “Call 066 7123456 today to get your FREE gift. Offer ends this Friday” or include a coupon so you can measure the response to your ad.
If you focus on this simple formula your ad will be incredibly successful.

• Helen Burns owns and manages Helen Burns and Associates. They are located at 4 Greenview Terrace, Tralee. Contact 087-2863977. See http://www.actioncoach.com/helenburns for more

News Archive, POLITICS

Profile: The Days Of Grace

1 Comment

“We’re a great, generous community-orientated town – that’s what makes us a little bit different.”

rsz_grace_and_mike_1
Fine Gael candidate, Grace O’Donnell, with her father Mike at her home in Riverside. Photo by Dermot Crean

By Dermot Crean

GRACE O’Donnell is no longer the new kid on the block.

Having been elected for the first time to Tralee Town Council in 2009, the Oakpark woman is now hoping to take the step up County Council level against stiff opposition from the other 13 candidates.

I spoke to the Fine Gael candidate at her home in a quiet area of Oakpark, to find out how the campaign is going.

Born and bred in Riverside, Grace was educated at Presentation Primary and Secondary before going on to do a business and secretarial course at the VEC. She then joined the workforce with Kerry Cleaning Centre Ltd (now Total Cleaning Supplies) back in 1994 and has been there since.

Unlike some of the candidates, the O’Donnell family isn’t steeped in politics, but Grace gained an interest from her time in Presentation Secondary.

“In fifth year I got involved with the Youth Centre or the KDYS as it’s known now. We used to produce a newsletter about what was going on in Tralee and other things, but through this I was selected to represent Ireland at a European Youth Conference in Brussels. That really gave me an interest in politics,” she said.

Grace got involved with Young Fine Gael while at school, through people she knew in organisations and has been a member since. But it’s only before the last election did she decide to throw her hat in the ring.

“I was approached by Jimmy Deenihan and he asked me to run for Tralee Town Council. I thought about it and discussed it with my family and felt that I would do a good job.”

She was elected and has served on the Council since 2009, becoming Mayor in 2011-2012, an honour she will never forget.

But now Grace is back looking to be elected to the new Kerry County Council. Is it harder going back on the doorsteps again and what are people’s concerns?

“I find that last time people were more argumentative, people were more cross, but there is a certain amount of apathy this time around. Water charges though is the issue which keeps coming up. People are suffering; they’re trying to put children through college, through secondary school, which isn’t cheap and they’re worried about the future.”

Grace says she finds it difficult when she hears of families with sick children or children with disabilities, are finding things difficult, especially since she is a co-founder of the Care4Kids charity.

“They’re worried about losing medical cards and they’re suffering so much with their children being ill. To have the financial worry on top of that breaks my heart.”

So what does Grace plan to do if she is elected to the new municipal authority?

“Jobs, obviously, is the top priority and with this new regional aid map, Kerry is on a level playing field to attract large companies. That will be of huge benefit. We need to support our SMEs and businesses and look after their interests as best we can.”

With the Town Council gone, she believes there are challenges ahead.

“Our role as municipal authority members is going to be a lot more important because we’re going to have to shout louder in the chamber for the town’s interests. We have a beautiful town with fabulous facilities and the Tralee Chamber Alliance has been very instrumental in promoting the town.”

Outside of politics, Grace was Secretary of Tralee Rugby Club for 16 years up until last year.

“I started going up to the club to watch the games about 20 years ago and I got involved. There’s fabulous volunteers up there, like in the other clubs around the town. They’re doing brilliant work with young people.”

Speaking of young people, Grace was involved for years with the now defunct SAM group and founded the Junior Rotary Club in Mounthawk five years ago.

Through her involvement with the Care4Kids charity, she has fundraised to help families with sick children with their financial expenses.

“We work in conjunction with the Pediatric Social Officer in Kerry General Hospital and she comes to us when she has a family who are in a bit of bother. They fill out an application form and we try to give them an amount of money then.”

“The first couple of years was a struggle but we were lucky to be nominated as one of Donal Walsh’s charities and we have received a substantial amount of money from them over the last two Christmases. It was a huge day personally when I was able to give our first cheque to a family.”

So why should people vote for Grace O’Donnell?

“I’m a hard worker and I believe communities can make our town a better place to live. It’s important to get out there and do as much as you can.”

Beauty&Fashion, News

Photos: Celebrity Celia Holman Lee Turns On The Style At CH

LADIES from all over the county turned up at CH The Mall on Friday evening, for an evening of style and beauty tips from, among others, celebrity model agency mogul, Celia Holman Lee.

About 100 fashion-loving women heard from the Limerick-based special guest, who gave styling advice, as well as from TraleeToday.ie beauty columnist, Mary O’Donnell and Clarins experts who gave make-up tips and tricks.

The ladies present turned on the style, as our photos show…

Maura Murphy, Tralee, Maureen Duggan, Farmers Bridge and Claire Kelliher, Tralee, attending the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Maura Murphy, Tralee, Maureen Duggan, Farmers Bridge and Claire Kelliher, Tralee, attending the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mary Kelly, Clarins Area Manager, special guest speaker Celia Holman Lee, Siobhan O'Mahony and Cindy Walsh of CH The Mall and TraleeToday.ie beauty columnist, Mary O'Donnell at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mary Kelly, Clarins Area Manager, special guest speaker Celia Holman Lee, Siobhan O’Mahony and Cindy Walsh of CH The Mall and TraleeToday.ie beauty columnist, Mary O’Donnell at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Maria Clifford, Cahersiveen, Sheila O'Mahony, Rathmore and Teresa Walker, Ballymac, at the Clarins event at CH The Mall, Tralee on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Maria Clifford, Cahersiveen, Sheila O’Mahony, Rathmore and Teresa Walker, Ballymac, at the Clarins event at CH The Mall, Tralee on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Joyce McCannon and Jackie Mullins, both from Tralee, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Joyce McCannon and Jackie Mullins, both from Tralee, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Deirdre Quinn and Sharon Hayes, both from Tralee, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Deirdre Quinn and Sharon Hayes, both from Tralee, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Anita and May Ann Sullivan, Ballyseedy, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Anita and May Ann Sullivan, Ballyseedy, at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sandra Rusk of Weardrobe, Tralee and Patricia Horgan, Blennerville, attending the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sandra Rusk of Weardrobe, Tralee and Patricia Horgan, Blennerville, attending the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Roisin Nooney and Marie Riodan, both from Killorglin, at the Clarins event at CH The Mall, Tralee on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Roisin Nooney and Marie Riodan, both from Killorglin, at the Clarins event at CH The Mall, Tralee on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Breda Gaire Walsh, Knocknagoshel, Breda O'Connor, Knocknagoshel, Patricia Cusack, Abbeyfeale and Nancy Keane from Tralee at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Breda Gaire Walsh, Knocknagoshel, Breda O’Connor, Knocknagoshel, Patricia Cusack, Abbeyfeale and Nancy Keane from Tralee at the Clarins evening at CH The Mall on Friday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

 

 

News Archive

Rose Statues Kitted Out By Craft Group

THE Rose of Tralee statue was kept warm on Friday morning thanks to volunteers from Tralee International Resource Centre.

The Craft Group from the centre took part in CraftBomb, a nationwide secret project as a part of a Voluntary Arts Week.

CraftBomb is a project to brighten up your community and help launch Voluntary Arts Week in an explosion of colour and creativity on 9 May!

The aim is to brighten up an area for local public, engage communities and celebrate creativity. TIRC Craft Group asked permission from Tralee Town Council to brighten up the Rose of Tralee statue in Town Park, by adding crochet, knitted and sewn pieces and the statues looked very fetching in their new ensemble.

This year’s Voluntary Arts Week will take place from May 9-18. To find out more visit www.voluntaryartsweek.org

TIRC Craft Group meets every Monday evening from 7:30 pm – 9:30pm in in Tralee International Resource Centre,
13 – 14 St Patrick’s Bungalows, Boherbee, Tralee, Co. Kerry; Phone: 066 71 27918 / 087 982 2983.
Everyone welcome!

Telia Lucid, Tralee, Mary Shanahan, Betina Hoare, Kristina Silina, Alex Shanahan of the Tralee International Resource Centre Craft Group taking part in the Craft-Bomb event in the Town Park on Friday morning.
Telia Lucid, Mary Shanahan, Betina Hoare, Kristina Silina and Alex Shanahan of the Tralee International Resource Centre Craft Group taking part in the Craft-Bomb event in the Town Park on Friday morning.

 

Beauty&Fashion, News

Gaelcholaiste Students Take To The Catwalk

TRANSITION Year students from Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai strutted their stuff in the Meadowlands Hotel to raise funds for their annual trip to Fenit for their foundation course in sailing.

“This will help defray the cost of the course because parents have enough to pay for these days,” said teacher,  Michelle Daltuin.

“They’ve been preparing for six weeks by going downtown with letters to businesses before Easter, to picking out clothes and getting spot prizes yesterday. It’s been going for the last 12 years and the local businesses have been fantastic,” said Michelle.

The 35 students went through a range of outfits on the night and the large attendance of family and friends had a great time watching them throw shapes on the catwalk.

Scroll down for photos…

Cian Moore, Tralee, Christine Mortimer, Chantell Murphy and Fionan O'Carroll from Tralee taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Cian Moore, Tralee, Christine Mortimer, Chantell Murphy and Fionan O’Carroll from Tralee taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Orla Ni Chonchuir, Fenit, Olivia Ni Dubhda, Brandon and Cliodhna Moran, Tralee, taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Orla Ni Chonchuir, Fenit, Olivia Ni Dubhda, Brandon and Cliodhna Moran, Tralee, taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Muireann McKenna, Kilflynn, Seamus Looney, Tralee, Alannah Kissane, Lixnaw and Aaran Casey, Ballyheigue taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Muireann McKenna, Kilflynn, Seamus Looney, Tralee, Alannah Kissane, Lixnaw and Aaran Casey, Ballyheigue taking part in the Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai Transition Year annual fashion show in the Meadowlands on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

Entertainment, News

Tommy Tiernan Packs Them Into Ballyroe

HUNDREDS of people from all over Tralee enjoyed a night of laughs from a man no stranger to these parts over the past few years.

Tommy Tiernan is on his World Tour Of Kerry – he did a similar tour in 2010 – and he didn’t disappoint punters when he visited the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday.

He played to a full INEC on Saturday night and has yet to travel to Listowel, Sneem, Killorglin and Ballybunion, but the crowd from the capital gave him a great reception.

Good luck in Listowel and Ballybunion though Tommy. I hope they take your likening of north Kerry to a gulag with a pinch of salt!

Scroll down for photos from the gig…

Sean and Lisa Campbell, Tralee with Catriona and John McCarthy, Ardfert at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sean and Lisa Campbell, Tralee with Catriona and John McCarthy, Ardfert at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Niamh and Thomas Lyne, Stephen Leane and Salome McDonnell, all Tralee, at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Niamh and Thomas Lyne, Stephen Leane and Salome McDonnell, all Tralee, at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Darren Cole, Knockanish, Michelle Dempsey, Ballinorig, Samantha Cole and Michelle Lynch, Ballymac at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Darren Cole, Knockanish, Michelle Dempsey, Ballinorig, Samantha Cole and Michelle Lynch, Ballymac at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
May Hourihane, Tralee, Niamh Shanahan, Tralee, Catriona Kelliher, Tralee and Padraig Moynihan, Farmers Bridge at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
May Hourihane, Tralee, Niamh Shanahan, Tralee, Catriona Kelliher, Tralee and Padraig Moynihan, Farmers Bridge at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Annemarie Dillon, Tralee, Rachel Sheehan, Ardfert, and Orla Galvin, Ardfert at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Annmarie Dillon, Tralee, Rachel Sheehan, Ardfert, and Orla Galvin, Ardfert at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Orla and Mary O'Mahony at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Orla and Mary O’Mahony at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Meabh Enright and Catriona Locke, Tralee, at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Meabh Enright and Catriona Locke, Tralee, at the Tommy Tiernan comedy gig in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

Entertainment

Songs In The Key Of Life: John Buggy

John Buggy 1Well-known Tralee Singer/Songwriter, John Buggy, selects the soundtrack to his life…

Elton John – Rocket Man

No surprises here for anyone that knows me. Sometime back in 1973, I can remember lunchtime in the school canteen…the radio was playing and I heard this song.

I was captivated and wanted to find out more about this artist. That was the beginning of a musical love affair that has lasted 40 years; we have fallen out a few times over the decades but I remain a card carrying fan and I probably always will be.

Steely Dan – Rikki Don’t Lose That Number

A couple of years later I was in school (again) and was talking music and trading albums with another kid at the back of the class. I think I was lending him ‘Bad Company’ and he was lending me ‘Led Zeppelin II’.

The teacher, Mr. Edwards: a hippy, socialist revolutionary (there was a lot of it about during the 70’s), became aware that whatever we were doing it had nothing to do with Maths or Geography and asked for the albums.

When he looked at them he smiled and shook his head in a kind of ‘tut, tut, what are these kids listening to these days’ way. He said to me that if I liked music that much he’d give me something worth listening to. The following day he leant me ‘Dixie Chicken’ by Little Feat and ‘Pretzel Logic’ by Steely Dan…thank you Mr. Edwards, you blew my mind.

Bill Withers – Use Me

Fast forward another few years to the late 70’s in Tralee. There was a great band called Stagalee that I was fortunate enough to be around to watch grow and develop from a raw and earthy country/blues band into a smooth funk experience!

The band was originally fronted by the fantastic Victor McCullogh (brother of Henry) and the fabulous Errol Walsh and those two consummate musicians brought a string of other serious players to Tralee to entertain and enlighten us.

I think Victor and Errol were probably the Ying and Yang of my early musical influence. One of the artists Stagalee introduced me to was Bill Withers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbN8jqDhHO8

Paul Brady – Crazy Dreams

When I think in terms of people that have influenced my development as a musician, songwriter and performer then I really have to mention Paul Brady.

His 1981 ‘Hard Station’ album marked his transition from Folk/Trad to Rock and it remains one of my favourite albums. I’ve supported him a couple of times…once at the height of his popularity in the CYMS, Tralee.

It took me months to learn how to play this so I’m not likely to stop anytime soon.

Paul Carrack – Eyes Of Blue

The man with the Golden Voice: one that people recognise even if they don’t know his name. Have loved this guy since hearing him with Ace in the 70’s, on to the 80’s as sideman with Squeeze through to the 90’s with Mike and the Mechanics and up to the present day as a solo artist.

This guy has worked with everybody worth working with. Over the years I have had the pleasure of meeting him a few times and he is a total gentleman. This is one of my favourite songs by him and the last time Anne and I saw him in Concert he dedicated this song to her.

Blues Brothers – I Don’t Know

It would be remiss of me to finish off this retrospective labour of love without mentioning ‘The Righteous Dudes’, a band that I was fortunate to be a part of throughout its entirety (actually we are still known to play the odd gig or two).

I suppose it was my 15 minutes of fame and we had a great run, rocking top venues (and a few dives) throughout Ireland and England.

We also did every TV show on the box, recorded some great tunes, made a video, breakfasted with the Labour Party and had lots of fun along the way. This one goes out to my fellow Dudes…if y’all wasn’t there…then y’all missed it!!

News Archive

Students Reach For The Scifest

SCIENCE projects ranging from increasing milk yields through cow-love to getting drunk on mouthwash were on show at the SciFest fair at the ITT on Thursday where students from all over Kerry took part.

SciFest is a series of one-day science fairs for second-level students hosted locally in schools and at regional level in the Institutes of Technology and there were nearly 40 projects up for judging at the fair.

We visited the college to find out more about the Tralee schools’ projects.

Laura Ni Eaidhin, of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai with her 'Safety On Our Roads' project at the Scifest Fair at the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Laura Ni Eaidhin, of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai with her ‘Safety On Our Roads’ project at the Scifest Fair at the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Faring best of the Tralee schools was Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai’s Laura Ni Eidhin who finished Runner-Up in the Best Project category for her  ‘Sábhálacht ar ár mbothaire – Safety on our roads (A statistical analysis of driver knowledge)’ project.

“It’s about safe and fuel-efficient driving. I’m very interested in the environment and I was on the Green committee in my primary school so I decided to do a project on it,” said Laura.

Orla Ni Chonchuir of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai with her project 'Shoes - Cost Or Comfort' at the Scifest Fair at the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Orla Ni Chonchuir of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai with her project ‘Shoes – Cost Or Comfort’ at the Scifest Fair at the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Orla Ni Chonchuir of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai did a project on the effects of wearing cheap flat shoes.

“I found that wearing flat shoes causes more pain and swollen ankles. You have a greater chance of hip, knee and back problems and of getting athletes foot,” said Orla.

Mercy Mounthawk student, Grace Egan, Ardfert, with her project 'Does Extra Tender Loving Care Increase Milk Yields In Dairy Cows', at the Scifest Fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mercy Mounthawk student, Grace Egan, Ardfert, with her project ‘Does Extra Tender Loving Care Increase Milk Yields In Dairy Cows’, at the Scifest Fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

A project from a Mercy Mounthawk student found that greater affection towards cows  increases milk yields.

“Giving cows names has a big influence on the amount of milk they produce,” said Grace Egan, who lives on a farm in Ardfert.

“I tested the milk levels one group of cows, which I gave names to, every week for six weeks at evening milking time and compared them to another group over the same period. I found that the group with names’ milk yield went up by seven litres by the end of the period,” said Grace.

Aran Deely of Gaelcholaiste Chiarrai compared Mediterranean, Japanese and Irish diets and found that if Irish people took elements from these diets we’d he much healthier.

Mercy Mounthawk students, Niall Marley and Tiernan Brosnan with their project 'Are You Drunk On Mouthwash?' at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mercy Mounthawk students, Niall Marley and Tiernan Brosnan with their project ‘Are You Drunk On Mouthwash?’ at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Mounthawk students Niall Marley and Tiernan Brosnan found that the alcohol in mouthwash is enough to make somebody fail the breathalyzer, within 20 minutes, when following the instructions from the bottle.

“It says to half-fill the cap and rinse for 30 seconds. Our subjects did that and within 20 minutes they failed the homemade breathalyser,” said Tiernan.

Mercy Mounthawk students, Dorcas Oyewande and Busola Akintope, with their project on 'The Effects Of Heavy School Bags On Secondary School Students' at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mercy Mounthawk students, Dorcas Oyewande and Busola Akintope, with their project on ‘The Effects Of Heavy School Bags On Secondary School Students’ at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Fellow Mounthawk students Dorcas Oyewande and Busola Akintope did a project on the weight of schoolbags and their effect on students.

“We found that there’s no documented evidence to prove it has an effect on students’  backs but many believe that if the weight of the bag is over 20% of the student’s body weight it may cause future back problems,” said Dorcas.

Presentation Tralee students Hannah O'Connor and Aoife Sheehan with their project 'The Dangers Of Household Chemicals To Young Children' at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Presentation Tralee students Hannah O’Connor and Aoife Sheehan with their project ‘The Dangers Of Household Chemicals To Young Children’ at the Scifest fair in the ITT on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Presentation students Hannah O’Connor and Aoife Sheehan did a project on the dangers of household products to children.

“We found that many people didn’t know what the hazard symbols on the bottle mean and that mixing these household products is dangerous,” said Aoife.

The girls decided to do the project after reading an article on how young children were eating liquitabs because they thought they were sweets.

SciFest has developed rapidly since its launch nationwide in 2008. In that year just over 1,600 students exhibited 680 projects. Five years later in 2013 over 2,300 students exhibited 941 projects at SciFest@School fairs while almost 3500 students exhibited their work at 15 SciFest@College events.

Health&Fitness, News

Civic Honour For Bon Secours

THE Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Pat Hussey, has presented the Bon Secours Hospital Tralee with a Civic Award to recognise the recent success in being chosen as Ireland’s Private Hospital of the Year 2014.

bons_1
The Manager of the Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, Donna Roche, with Mayor of Tralee, Pat Hussey and Orla Quirke, Bon Secours Hospital Tralee Staff Nurse at the Civic Reception on Tuesday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

The Civic Award presentation, which was proposed by Cllr Terry O’Brien at the April meeting of Tralee Town Council, coincided with the start of Phase 2 of a multi-million euro development at the Bon Secours Hospital Tralee.

The Manager of the Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, Donna Roche, and her three colleagues – Dr Síle O’Connor (Senior Pharmacist); Mary Reidy (Infection Control Clinical Nurse Specialist) and Mary Nagle (Clinical Nurse Specialist Respiratory) – whose projects were an integral part of the submission to the Irish Healthcare Awards attended a special reception at the Town Hall, ahead of the monthly meeting of Tralee Town Council.

Cllr Pat Hussey congratulated and praised the work of the Bon Secours Hospital staff who, he said, all contributed towards the achievement at the Irish Healthcare Centre Awards.

“I know this was achieved through hard work and dedication to the hospital and I know that Donna Roche and her team deserve great credit for maintaining top class standards,” said the Mayor of Tralee.

He and his fellow councillors each acknowledged the role the Bon Secours Hospital has played in supporting the local economy through the employment of 500 staff.

Donna Roche, who accepted Civic Award on behalf of all the staff at the Bon Secours Hospital Tralee, said: “We are honoured to receive such a recognition from Tralee Town Council and we are very proud of our recent achievement in becoming Ireland’s Private Hospitalof the Year. The award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the staff who provide excellent care to patients and we are looking forward to maintaining that position into the future.”

Donna Roche took the opportunity to congratulate Bon Secours Hospital Tralee Staff Nurse Orla Quirke who is this year’s winner of INMO Nurse Preceptor of the Year 2014.

This award is designed to recognise and acknowledge the priceless work performed by qualified nurses as they seek to guide, grow and direct undergraduate student nurses through their degree programme.

Orla, who also attended the Civic Reception at Tralee Town Council, has won this year’s award on the basis of her excellence, in preceptorship, as described by her student nurse colleague Ms Deirdre Lynch.

News Archive, POLITICS

Town Manager: ‘Money Raised In Tralee, Will Be Spent In Tralee’

OVER €11m in funds left in the Town Council coffers will stay in the town, Tralee Town Council Management informed councillors at the May meeting on Tuesday evening.

council_1
Tralee Town Council Buildings.

Tralee Town Manager, Michael McMahon, said he has received assurances from Kerry County Council management, that these monies will remain for use in the town and were “ring-fenced” for projects in Tralee, despite the fact that the accounts will be merged with the Kerry County Council account after the abolition of the Town Council.

When asked by Cllr Ted Fitzgerald (FF) how sure he was of this ringfencing, Mr McMahon replied: “Everything is tagged for Tralee. Assurances have been given by the County Manager that these capital monies raised in Tralee will be spent in Tralee.”

The assurances were widely welcomed by councillors who were concerned that these funds would be spent in other parts of the county.

The councillors also praised how the management has handled the town’s finances over the years.

The Council’s capital account showed a credit balance of €11,085,936 on December 31, 2013.

News, Sport

Top Showjumping Expert For Kingdom County Fair

Robert Splaine.
Robert Splaine.

THE world famous showjumper and current High Performance Manager for the Irish Show Jumping team, Robert Splaine, will attend the 65th Kingdom County Fair this Sunday.

He will meet riders and exhibitors and present rosettes at the event which begins at 10am at Ballybeggan Racecourse.

Mr Splaine has represented Ireland on many winning Nation Cup teams andhas helped many riders achieve regional, national and international success. He is also very familiar with the taste of national and international success himself. His most significant achievements as an international competitor include winning the Millstreet Derby, the Canadian Airlines Challenge, Calgary, Canada and numerous Nations’ Cups in Europe and North America.

He has been an Aga Khan team member and the National Show Jumping Champion on three occasions, the most recent being in 2007, while he was also fulfilling his duties as the Chef d’Equipe of the senior Irish Show Jumping Team.
In his capacity as Chef d’Equipe, Robert has guided Ireland to many Nations’ Cup successes, including the dramatic reclaiming of the Aga Khan Cup at the RDS in August 2012.

His greatest achievement as Chef d’Equipe, however, is undoubtedly securing Cian O’Connor’s Bronze Medal at the 2012 London Olympics.

 

Business/Property, News

Tralee Business Showcase At Fels Point Hotel

THE business community in the Tralee and wider area are set to come together next week at the inaugural Tralee Chamber Alliance Business Expo in association with The Kerryman.

kieran_ruttledge_chamber
CEO of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Kieran Ruttledge.

The event between 4pm and 8pm on Tuesday, May 13 at Fels Point Hotel will showcase the excellence, broad range and the achievements of local business.

The CEO of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Kieran Ruttledge, said: “The Business Expo will provide business people with an opportunity to network with each other and the general public with a view to developing their databases while meeting with potential customers. The media will be there to spotlight and promote our local enterprise and the best of our business talent.”

Admission to the general public will be free while all participants have been encouraged to take the opportunity to provide special offers and promotions as a form of incentive to attract the public on the day.

Tralee Chamber Alliance is proud to host the event at no cost to the exhibitors.

It was anticipated that space would be at a premium and so far nearly 30 businesses have signed-up to take part.

Requests for a table/exhibit spot are being handled on a first come first accepted basis and there may still be some time to secure a place at the event.

Anyone who is interested participating in the Business Expo should contact David Scott at the Tralee Chamber Alliance Office, 18 Denny Street, Tralee or phone 066-7121742.

News Archive

Pedestrian Danger On Tralee Roads

THE issue of dangers to pedestrians at two busy Tralee roads was raised by two councillors at the May meeting of Tralee Town Council on Tuesday evening.

Cllr Johnnie Wall (Ind) put forward a motion that a pedestrian crossing be put in place on the Killerisk Road because of the level of traffic and the fact that it’s a very long stretch of road.

“There are a lot of elderly people living on that road and the only way they can cross safely is to got to the crossings at the end of the road near county buildings or way up at the supermarket towards Ballymullen – that’s about a mile apart,” said Cllr Wall, speaking to TraleeToday.ie after the meeting.

“There should be traffic calming measures and two pedestrian crossings put in place on the road ideally,” said Cllr Wall.

Cllr Norma Foley (FF)  agreed that a crossing was needed and said she had brought up the matter at Kerry County Council.

Cllr Conor Foley (SF) brought up the issue of pedestrian safety on John Joe Sheehy Road, especially since the opening of the new Aldi store.

“People coming out from the Mitchels side at Champers can’t see the oncoming traffic due to the bend and it’s an accident waiting to happen,” he said.

Council management said the issue of pedestrian crossings in these areas will have to be looked at by Kerry County Council.

killerisk_road
Cllr Johnnie Wall brought up the issue of a pedestrian crossing on the Killerisk Road.
aldi_exit
Cllr Cathal Foley said the area near Aldi on John Joe Sheehy Road is very dangerous for pedestrians and motorists.

 

Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle

Orlagh Winters: Pride In Kerry Designers

2 Comments

orlagh wintersOK, so I know that I am a blow-in living in Kerry but I am very proud of the designers and miliners here in The Kingdom.

It really is no wonder that these designs constantly adorn the social pages and win numerous best dressed events at racecourses throughout the country.

The Queen of Milliners, Carol Kennelly, has won just about every Ladies Day competition in the land and this is hardly surprising with her unique designs.

I once described her as the Manchester United of the millinery world but with their recent form I think I need to change the comparison to Madrid.

Cheltenham Gold Cup Winner Jim Culloty has another champion in the family, the hugely talented Aoife Hannon who  is regularly featured in the parade ring of style and who won Milliner of the Year at Kerry Fashion Week.

Recently I was the MC for  the Ladies Lunch in aid of Recovery Haven where there was a superb collection shown by Kerry designer Tina Griffin.

I kinda wished I hadn’t seen the collection as I ordered two pieces that, although I am sure I don’t need it, didn’t stop me from wanting them. I am sure I will find somewhere to wear them.

Tina is a former winner of the Kerry Fashion Designer at KFW and my God she is a deserving winner. Her designs are gaining huge  interest both nationally and overseas and with her beautiful creative mind it is easy to see why.

Yummy Mummy Clodagh Irwin-Owens is another lady whose designs are simply perfection and this lady is one of the most hard working designers in the business.

She is bang in trend while remaining classy. Clodagh is very lucky to have her beautiful sister Emir as her muse and having seen Emir wear Clodagh’s designs at numerous fashion events during the years, one can’t help feel inadequete standing beside her. Clodagh has numerous accolades to her name and was recently named  as Designer of the Year at the Hi Style awards.

Local Tralee lady, Karyn Moriarty leapt to fame in 2011 when she designed the winning dress at the Galway Races worn by the fab fashionista Annmarie O’Leary. Since then Karyn’s creations have been seen on the who’s who of the stylestakes.  Karyn has a taste for what real women want and this is evident in her designs.

I think that there is an assumption that designers cost a lot of money but this is a myth and one that any designer will gladly put to bed. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and ask for their prices and come on ladies, let’s be honest, there really is nothing nicer than knowing that you are going to be the only one wearing this outfit to that special occasion.

The glory of social media is that all these designers have facebook pages where you can see their work.

The Kingdom is normally associated with the wins on the football field and there is always chat about how great these All-Ireland wins are (I wouldn’t be used to that being from Galway)  but sisters are doing it for themselves and are bringing all the big titles back here.

As well as feeling fantastic in one of the special designs there is always a huge feel good factor in supporting these hardworking indigenous talented people.

So go ahead folks, check out your local designers.

Until next time stay stylish

Orlagh xx

 

Entertainment, News

Probus Gets To The Art Of The Matter

1 Comment

A LARGE crowd gathered in Tralee Library on Tuesday evening for the official opening of the Probus art exhibition.

“Every year we do an art exhibition of our works from the Kerry Probus groups and this is our sixth exhibition,” said co-ordinator of the exhibition, Phil Hussey.

“We have both men and women in the groups and the work is very good. We enjoy it immensely and it’s great fun,” said Phil.

Those attending enjoyed refreshments on arrival and a performance by the Scotia Ladies Probus Club Singers during the course of the evening, which was officially opened by Donal O’Sullivan, Probus Liaison Officer. It was also a chance, of course, to view the many works of art by the members.

The group receive art classes from Hanora Kennedy and judging by the standard of the paintings on display, it was well worth her time. The exhibition runs until May 17, from 10am to 5pm.

Scroll down for photos…

Phil Hussey, Tralee, Eilish Leen, Ardfert and Maura Lawlor, Ardfert, at the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Phil Hussey, Tralee, Eilish Leen, Ardfert and Maura Lawlor, Ardfert, at the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
President of Failte Club, Carmel O'Sullivan with Phyliss Maher (in front of her painting) at the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
President of Failte Club, Carmel O’Sullivan with Phyliss Maher (in front of her painting) at the opening of the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Eileen O'Keeffe, Tralee and Marie Horgan, Kilmoyley at the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Eileen O’Keeffe, Tralee and Marie Horgan, Kilmoyley at the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Members of the Scotia Singers who performed at the opening of the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Members of the Scotia Singers who performed at the opening of the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mike O'Shea and Micheal O Suilleabhain, both from Tralee, at the opening of the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mike O’Shea and Micheal O Suilleabhain, both from Tralee, at the opening of the Probus Exhibition at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

 

GAA CLUBS

John Mitchels GAA News 05/05/2014

MitchelsSENIORS
We are away to Ardfert in Round 2 time and date T.B.C.

Our next Co. League game is at home to Skellig Rangers in round 4 on Saturday next May 10th at 7pm.

UNDER14 BOYS
Our under fourteen team enjoyed a productive week in the county league winning both games. On Monday we travelled to Castleisland to play a back game against Desmonds and came away with a hard fought win in the end. In what was a tough physical encounter our lads showed great character to grind out the victory by a four point margin.

On Wednesday night we played our final league game out in Spa and came away with a comprehensive victory, the final score line 7-11 to 1-10.
This victory left us top of the table and paired us in a semi final at home to Dingle on Wednesday evening 7th May at 7.30. If our earlier league encounter is anything to go by this should be a game to savour. Hopefully the home support will see us through.

Details of Feile tournament should be to hand next week.

UNDER 12 BOYS
Under 12 Games v An Gaelteacht. The B Team were very unlucky as narrowly Defeated by 1pt in a very close encounter best on the night were Jessie Duggan & Conor Keirns.

The A Team Had a good game and Held An Gaelteacht to 1 point in the 2nd half and are improving with every game were beaten on a scoreline of 4-5 to 0-7. Best on the night were Ciaran o Leary & Sean Dillane, next Sunday is the Final game in this round of Matches is against Dr Crokes in Killarney.

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 training session last Sunday and great fun was had by all. Cian, James, Sam, Luke and Aizak all did great training and worked hard on their skills. Shay, Darragh, Oisin, Ryan and Nadal all put in a great effort for the game at the end. All players did great work and everyone’s skills improved. On Thursday 8th there is a blitz (3 games) in Ballyrickard which is just beyond the tax office on the right. Be there at 6.00 everyone please with gum shields and see you all there.

UNDER 8 &10 GIRLS
We had a great turnout for training again this week with 24 girls. Lilly, Aoife, Emily and Kiera were fantastic in training putting all the new kicking and catching skills learned into practice.
Training continues next week at the time of 10.30am in camp Ballyseedy. All new players welcome, come along and meet new friends in a fun setting as you learn the game of ladies football. Just make yourself known to Claire, Patriz, James or John.

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 
The girls recorded a draw in the final game of phase 1of the county league away to Finugue / St Senans last week on a scoreline of Finuge/ St Senans 1 – 11 to John Mitchels 3-05. This completes phase 1 & all of the teams in the county will now be regraded into their correct divisions for the county league proper which will start once all of the other sections have been completed. The girls that played last Tuesday were as follows; Kerry Oba, Clara O Callaghan, Erica O Connor, Amy Somers,Laura Fitzgerald,Rachel Hanafin, Caoimhe Leahy, Julie Foley, Melissa Dennehy, Semi Ogungbsa, Sinead O Donnell,Kate Ross, Rachel Kilgallen, Elisabeth Zarane, Ruth Moriarty,Lauren Smullen, Molly Brosnan, Nicola Anrezejozyk,Nicole Heaphey & Lynda O Connor. The girls played Moyvane in the North Kerry League last Tuesday – report in next weeks notes.Training continues at Camp Ballyseedy from 6pm to 7pm on Thursday evenings – any new players are more than welcome to attend.
Gaelic4Girls
There is still a fantastic turnout at the Gaelic4Girls which continues every Wednesday from 6pm – 7pm in our club grounds at Camp Ballyseedy. The course is for 8 weeks & its hard to believe that we’re now into week 7. It’s open to all girls aged between 8-12 years who are not registered with a Ladies Gaelic Football team & it introduce girls to football in a fun environment. The programme costs €8 & all participants will get a G4G t-shirt and certificate on completion. 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.

CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to u-14 players Jade Powell and Blathnaid Cotter who were part of the Kerry u-14 team that won the Munster championship on Saturday. Congratulations also to team mentor Rory Kilgallen.

SPORTS COMPLEX
Our Sports Complex at Camp Ballyseedy is available for bookings on the Sports Hall, All Weather Pitch. The Gym, Sauna and Steam room’s 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 
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 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
29/4/2014
No wimmer
Numbers 1-3-13-23
€100 John Cronin c/o Bingo.
€25 Ted Fitzgerald c/o Paddy.
€25 John Fitzgerald c/o Paddy.
€25 Denis Buckley c/o Patrons
€25 John Roche c/o Patrons.
€25 Joan O’sullivan c/om Patrons.
Next draw 6/5/2014
Jackpot €4,000-00
SYMPATHY
To the Family of Violet Feehan (nee Scanlon) Spa Road Tralee.
To the Family of Nora Tuite (nee Healy ) Ontario Canada & formerly Marian park.
To the Family of Nora Curtin (nee O’Connor) O’Rahillys Villas & Chicago.
To the Family of Christopher O’Hehir Balloonagh Estate Tralee..
To the Family of Brid Brosnan Milk Market Lane & formerly Banog Lispole.
To the Family of Patrick Guihan Laural Court Tralee.
To the Family of Barry O’Flynn Dundrum Dublin.

Entertainment

Donegal Teacher Is London Rose

London Rose
London Rose Saoirse Faughnan receives her sash from outgoing London Rose Grace Kenny. Photo by Brendan Vaughan

AN award winning teacher has been named as the 2014 London Rose.

Saoirse Faughnan from Letterkenny, Donegal and a secondary school teacher for Burnt Mill Academy in Essex, has been previously awarded as an Outstanding Teacher in her school and is also nominated for a Teachers Award.

The 24-year-old was selected from 14 other hopefuls at the annual London Rose of Tralee selection ball at the Crown Moran Hotel, Cricklewood on Saturday night.

Saoirse, whose grandmother hails from County Donegal and whose mother is from County Sligo, represented the Burnt Mill Academy, on the night.

She wowed the judges with her rendition of the popular W.B. Yeat poem, The Lake Isle of Inishfree, which she recited half in English and half as Gaeilge.

Saoirse was in a state of shock and denial, as she clasped her face into her hand, when her name was called out by chairman of the London Rose Centre Noel O’Sullivan.

She said: “I am in a state of euphoria and ecstatic and truly honored to be presented the sash by the outgoing London Rose Grace Kenny. I am honored to take on this role for my family and for London and go on to represent every single Irish person in London. I hope I can complete it with passion and pride.”

Saoirse will now go forward to the Rose of Tralee Regional finals in Portlaoise from May 29 to the June 1.

She follows in the footsteps of outgoing London Rose Grace Kenny who was on hand to present Saoirse with her official London Rose sash.

Other guests of honor on the night included Mayor of Kerry Seamus Fitzgerald.

Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle

Mary O’Donnell: Some Hair-Raising Facts!

rsz_mary_odonnell_xI RECENTLY attended the Viviscal Hair Confessions launch in Dublin. Viviscal is an Irish success story as it is the World’s best selling hair supplement and has been proven by seven separate clinical trials. This award winning company’s product is sold in over 25 countries.

I met the lovely Maia Dunphy who is taking the supplements and will be moving to London soon to join husband Johnny Vegas. Also attending was Pippa O Connor, who chatted about hair loss after baby Ollie.
6,900 took part in this hair survey and here are some findings that shocked me.
72% of Irish women would choose a healthy full head of hair over healthy glowing skin.
54% said thinning hair ,or hair loss made them feel less confident.
84% said when their hair looks good they’re more likely to go after what the want.
68% of Irish women have noticed excess shedding or hair loss.
40% blamed stress and poor diet for hair thinning and hair loss.
80% opt for a ponytail or reach for a hat when having a bad hair day.

Taking Viviscal will take 3 months to see results.The programme includes shampoo, conditioner and scalp serum and vitamins as healthy hair comes from within. One box of Viviscal is sold globally every minute – now that is an Irish success story.

Over the weekend I took part in a false eyelash challenge #ultrabondchallenge. The lashes, Nouveau Lashes, are very natural and perfect if you are not used to wearing false lashes.

The glue was called Ultrabond and it is brilliant if you want a glue that works with any lashes and is safe for sensitive skin. The challenge was to apply the lashes on Friday and see would they last all weekend. They did and I will be wearing them the next long weekend again!

Garnier have launched a new cream called Miracle Skin Cream. It is for tired skin it comes out white but has a lovely tint in it. It has seven anti-ageing ingredients and an SPF of 20. After 4 weeks of using this treatment tinted cream my skin felt great.

On contact with the skin the white micro capsules contain pigments that correct the signs of tiredness and help to conceal the signs of ageing. RRP €19.99.

Roger and Gallet have launched five body lotions. They all smell divine and are 95% natural origin base. This lotion melts on contact and the aloe vera and vitamins and amino acids provide lasting hydration and it has no parabens, no silicone and no coloring agents.The gentle fragrance lingers all day. RRP €15.00 for 200ml.

Bourjois have a new nail polish remover for hands and feet called Magic Nail Polish Remover. This foam applicator is a go anywhere product and it is so quick. It is gentle for nails and has sweet almond oil which is very nourishing for nails and cuticles. It smells of vanilla and red fruit, unlike other removers. For the toes place the applicator on each toenail. For the hands just dip the nails and varnish is instantly removed. RRP is €7.99

Bourjois have also launched a 24 hr velvet lipstick that comes in six shades and is like velvet on the lips. It stayed on my lips for 23 hours and did not dry the lips. Perfect for days when reapplying lipstick is not big on the agenda.

Next week: Kerry cosmetic companies

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Mary O’Donnell with Kevin Barry Business Development with Life’s 2 Good, whose flagship product is Viviscal.
News Archive

Homes Burgled In Ballymacelligott Area

GARDAI are asking homeowners to be vigilant after three homes were burgled in the Bgarda_1allymacelligott/Ballyseedy area last week.

Money and jewellery were taken when the houses were broken into on Thursday, May 1.

The houses were vacant for a short period during daylight hours and Gardai believe the thieves may have been watching the properties.

There haven’t been burglaries of this nature in the area for some time and Gardai are asking the public to be alert to anything suspicious.