PHOTOS: Tralee Secondary School Students Win At Cross Country Event

January 23, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

Schools ath 0072 — Mark Ryall presents the Shield for Best Boys School to Shane Lowth, Athletics Captain of Tralee CBS team, with Damien McLoughlin (Kerry Colleges Athletics Board/Tralee CBS) and Helen Kelleher (Tralee CBS.) Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

TRALEE athletes excelled at the Kerry Schools Cross Country Championships on Wednesday at The Demesne, Killarney.

Tralee CBS beat competition from around the county to win the ‘Best School Award’ for boys, with Mercy Mounthawk coming in second place and Presentation Milltown 3rd.

Presentation Killarney won ‘Best Girls School’ with Mercy Mounthawk once again finishing second, joint 3rd were Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare and Presentation Milltown.

For The Green, Mohammad Raheem was a very impressive winner of the Minor race, leading his team to 1st place.

Fergal O’Brien of CBS was an easy winner of the Junior race, with his team coming 2nd. Daire Keane ran a great race to finish 2nd in the Intermediate race, with the two Tralee CBS teams dominating to finish 1st and 2nd.

Shane Lowth was a good 2nd in the Senior race, leading the two teams to 1st and 3rd place. These teams now go on to compete at the North-Munster Championships in Limerick.

For Mercy Mounthawk, Cillian Tierney, won the senior category. Also picking up a top award was Eimear O’Sullivan, from Presentation who won the minor girls award.

For full results, scroll down past the photos below…

IT Tralee TraleeToday-600x400-Ads-Perks-HR-9 — .

Athletes who took part in the Kerry Schools Cross Country Championships. — The first three home in Minor Boys 2000m – Mohammad Raheem, Tralee CBS; Jamie O’Brien, Mercy Mounthawk; Aodan O’Dubhain, Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

The CBS The Green team that took part in Kerry Schools Cross Country Championships. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 9979 — Mercy Mounthawk athletes (centre) at the start of the Junior Girls 2000m. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 0064 — Senior Boys 5000m winners – Cillian Tierney, Mercy Mounthawk; Shane Lowth, Tralee CBS; Gary Nolan, Tralee CBS. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 0057 — Fiona Kavanagh, Mercy Mounthawk, winner of Senior Girls 3000m, with her mother, Niamh O’Sullivan (Riocht AC/cross country athlete.) Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 9962 — Minor Girls 1500m Eimear O’Sullivan, Pres. Tralee; Kate Murphy, Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare; Erin O’Halloran, Mercy Mounthawk. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 9999 — Eventual winner, Fergal O’Brien of Tralee CBS, leads the field in the Junior Boys 3000m. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Schools ath 9966 — A large group set off in the Minor Boys 2000m. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin

Kerry Schools Cross Country Championships 2016

The Demesne, Killarney

Wednesday 20^th January, 2016

RESULTS

Minor Girls 1500m

Eimear O’Sullivan Presentation Tralee
Kate Murphy Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine, Kenmare
Erin O’Halloran Mercy Mounthawk
Grace Starrett Mercy Mounthawk
Jane Doyle Mercy Mounthawk
Marie Courtney Presentation Killarney

Team Result

Mercy Mounthawk 28 pts.
Pres. Killarney 35 pts.
Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine 56 pts.

Junior Girls 2000m

Rhona Randles Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare
Anna Clifford Presentation Killarney
Alyce O’Connor Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare
Mary O’Connell Presentation Tralee
Niamh Coffey Presentation Killarney
Katie Palmer Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare

Team Result

Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare 19 pts.
Presentation Killarney 30 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 58 pts.

Intermediate Girls 3000m

Shona O’Brien Presentation Milltown
Emily Pierse Colaiste Ide & Iosaef, Abbeyfeale
Sasha Brent Tarbert Comprehensive
Ciara Murphy Presentation Milltown
Niamh Ni Chonchuir Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne
Kate Murphy Presentation Killarney

Team Result

Presentation Milltown 32 pts.
Presentation Killarney 58 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 75 pts.

Senior Girls 3000m

Fiona Kavanagh Mercy Mounthawk
Eilish O’Leary Presentation Killarney
Elizabeth Mohan Presentation Killarney
Roisin Whelan Presentation Milltown
Siobhan Burns Presentation Killarney
Dearbhail Ryan Mercy Mounthawk

Team Result

Presentation Killarney 19 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 22 pts.
Presentation Milltown 41 pts.

Best Girls School

Presentation Killarney 9 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 7 pts.
Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine &

Presentation Milltown 4 pts.

Minor Boys 2000m

Mohammad Raheem Tralee CBS
Jamie O’Brien Mercy Mounthawk
Aodan O’Dubhain Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne
Niall Cassidy Mercy Mounthawk
Terence Carmody Tralee CBS
Caoimhin Finn Tralee CBS

Team Result

Tralee CBS 21 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 49 pts.
Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne 61 pts.

Junior Boys 3000m

Fergal O’Brien Tralee CBS
Gary Murphy Presentation Milltown
Naoise Buckley Presentation Milltown
Darragh O’Leary St. Brendans Killarney
Diarmuid Kelliher Presentation Milltown
Colin Crowley Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine Kenmare

Team Result

Presentation Milltown 19 pts.
Tralee CBS 33 pts.
Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine68 pts.

Intermediate Boys 4000m

Cillian Kerins Presentation Milltown
Daire Keane Tralee CBS
Michael Kelliher Tralee CBS
John Walsh Tralee CBS
Eoin Cahill Tralee CBS
Diarmuid O’Connor Mercy Mounthawk

Team Result

Tralee CBS ‘A’ 14 pts.
Tralee CBS ‘B’ 41 pts.
Colaiste Ide & Iosaef, Abbeyfeale 62 pts.

Senior Boys 5000m

Cillian Tierney Mercy Mounthawk
Shane Lowth Tralee CBS
Gary Nolan Tralee CBS
Louis Ryle Mercy Mounthawk
Sean Collins Mercy Mounthawk
Michael Foley Tarbert Comprehensive

Team Result

Tralee CBS ‘A’ 22 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 23 pts.
Tralee CBS ‘B’ 54 pts.

Best Boys School

Tralee CBS 14 pts.
Mercy Mounthawk 4 pts.
Presentation Milltown 3 pts.

News, SCHOOLS

VIDEO/PHOTOS: Mounthawk Transition Years Sleepout To Raise Awareness Of Homeless Issue

January 23, 2016 Dermot Crean

MERCY Mounthawk students spent a night sleeping outside the school gym on Thursday to highlight the national issue of homelessness and to raise funds for Focus Ireland.

Continued below…

Homeless 2 — Transition Year students with teacher Veronica Hunt (right) at the start of the sleep out to raise awareness of the national issue of homelessness. Photo by Dermot Crean

The weather was terrible with wind and rain battering the building but the students, part of the transition year Young Social Innovators Group, toughed it out.

In front; Evan O'Connor, Brendan Walsh and Thomas O'Sullivan,. Back; Fianna Fail election candidate Cllr John Brassil, Diarmaid O'Connor and Odhran Liston at the start of the sleep out to raise awareness of the national issue of homelessness. Photo by Dermot Crean — In front; Evan O’Connor, Brendan Walsh and Thomas O’Sullivan,. Back; Fianna Fail election candidate Cllr John Brassil, Diarmaid O’Connor and Odhran Liston at the start of the sleep out to raise awareness of the national issue of homelessness. Photo by Dermot Crean

President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, John Drummey, and local politician Fianna Fáil election candidate John Brassil – who was there when TraleeToday.ie turned up at the beginning of the night to take a few photos – lent their support to the event.

The students were in good spirits with some parents and teachers there to make sure they had everything they needed for the night ahead.

Later on Friday, the tired students were over in Manor West collecting funds for the homeless charity, Focus Ireland.

Student Katie Ryan described how the event went.

“The experience overall was tough, one of the most challenging experiences psychologically and physically for every member of the group. The weather – though for Ireland it may have been mild – it was still freezing and windy. It gave us all an insight into the lives of people who have no homes. Everyone was shook by the experience as to how hard it actually was but that’s what we were hoping to get out of it. It’s given us the boost we needed to keep working toward making a change.

Over in Manor, people asked us questions about how the sleep out went, why we did it, what focus Ireland was about and what their aim was as a charity. People were very supportive.

We achieved what we hoped to due to the support from the media, teachers, parents, school staff and our fellow students in and out of our YSI group.”

The group made a video of the night which can be viewed below…

Entertainment, Lifestyle

VIDEO/PHOTOS: Tom And Anne Are Kings Of The ‘Castle’ At Strictly Event

January 23, 2016 Dermot Crean 2 Comments

Choreographer Jackie O'Mahony with judges Orlagh Winters, Arthur J Spring and Fergus Moroney at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Choreographer Jackie O’Mahony with judges Orlagh Winters, Arthur J Spring and Fergus Moroney (missing from photo is other judge Miriam Mulhall Nolan) at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

OVER 300 people went to the Ballyroe Heights Hotel on Friday night for a fantastic night of entertainment, to raise funds for Castlegregory Golf and Fishing Club.

Nine couples, made up of members of the club and from Tralee Musical Society, took to the dance floor and wowed judges and audiences alike with their great performances, thanks to the expert dance teachings of Jackie O’Mahony.

MCs John Drummey and Geraldine Flynn did an exemplary job, while the judges – Orlagh Winters, Deputy Arthur J Spring, Fergus Moroney and Miriam Mulhall Nolan – had a tough task to pick the outstanding act.

The public also had their say as they voted for their favourite couple and in the end Anne Kerins and Tom Ferriter were deemed the worthy overall winners, while Recovery Haven also benefitted from the night.

Scroll down for a video of the opening routine and there’s loads of photos below (we’ll have many more tomorrow)…

Participants in the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Front from left; Teresa Rice, Patricia Goodwin, Mary Ciepierski, Margaret O'Callaghan, Anne Kerins, Nora Keogan, Tara Dore, Janna Foley and Bernie O'Regan. Front from left; Tim Landers, Mike Deane, Joseph Ciepierski, Niall Fitzgerald, Tom Ferriter, Noel Ryan, Jonathan Lynch, Daniel Sterc and Richard Walsh. Photo by Dermot Crean — Participants in the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Front from left; Teresa Rice, Patricia Goodwin, Mary Ciepierski, Margaret O’Callaghan, Anne Kerins, Nora Keogan, Tara Dore, Janna Foley and Bernie O’Regan. Front from left; Tim Landers, Mike Deane, Joseph Ciepierski, Niall Fitzgerald, Tom Ferriter, Noel Ryan, Jonathan Lynch, Daniel Sterc and Richard Walsh. Photo by Dermot Crean

In front; Mary Comerford, Bernie Conway and Betty Foley. At back; Clodagh Foley and Tracey Hurley at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

MCs for the evening John Drummey and Geraldine Flynn at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Alex, Maude and Lydia Walsh and Aidan O'Halloran at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Alex, Maude and Lydia Walsh and Aidan O’Halloran at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Karel Sterc, Premi, Renata Habelkova, Laura Habelkova and Renata Sterc at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Maire Ciepierski, Eileen Goodwin and Lorraine O'Callaghan at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Maire Ciepierski, Eileen Goodwin and Lorraine O’Callaghan at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Pamela and Katie Teahan at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Ciara Fitzgerald, Laura Fitzgerald and Andrea O'Callaghan at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Ciara Fitzgerald, Laura Fitzgerald and Andrea O’Callaghan at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Deirdre McElligott and Sue Holmes at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Elaine and Susan Keane at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Anne Costello and Betty Ricken at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Participants in full swing in the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Patricia Goodwin dancing at the Castlegregory Golf Club Strictly Come Dancing event on Friday night at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

News, Sport

PHOTOS: Local Liverpool Fans Enjoy Anfield Trip…Despite Losing To Bitter Rivals

January 23, 2016 Dermot Crean

Stephen Roche joined the Kerry Liverpool Supporters Club on a trip to Anfield last weekend. Despite the 0-1 defeat to Manchester United, he said the trip was worthwhile to see the Reds in action…

Kerry Liverpool supporter Robbie O'Sullivan with ex-Liverpool star John Arne Riise at Anfield last Sunday. Photo by Stephen Roche — Kerry Liverpool supporter Robbie O’Sullivan with ex-Liverpool star John Arne Riise at Anfield last Sunday. Photo by Stephen Roche

THE Kerry Liverpool Supporters Club travelled over to Liverpool last weekend to watch them take on old rivals Manchester United in the Barclays Premier League match at Anfield.

The club, which has a strong membership, has two weekend trips a season— one in the first half and the other in the second half. Just over 30 of the members travelled.

Continued below…

The group left Tralee early Saturday morning to reach the ferry and then drove down to Liverpool from Wales, where they stayed in St. Helens, a town just outside the city. The members spent Saturday exploring and shopping around the city and then went to the match on Sunday.

Leo Byrne, who organises the trips for the club, spoke about the weekend: “It’s good to go over to see the team. Being such a popular club, it’s hard to get tickets. We try to come over for two games a season, but it all depends on tickets. It’s good to see new faces and even though we didn’t get a result, it’s still good to see the stadium and the team.”

The general feeling among the supporters club on match day was that of excitement and nervousness. It’s always an occasion when Liverpool are playing a bitter rival and the game is one of biggest on the calendar for both teams.

There was a mix between those who have been to Anfield numerous times and those who were there for the first time. Robbie O’Sullivan, who was attending his first Liverpool game, sat in the prestigious Kop.

That wasn’t the only occasion that he’ll remember. Robbie, who was in the front row of the Kop, noticed Liverpool legend, John Arne Riise, doing media work on the pitch just a few metres away. He managed to get the attention of the former player and got his picture taken with him.

“This is my first game and I was just excited to see it,” said Robbie. “I was really close to the pitch, and I noticed that Ray Houghton and Riise were doing some media work. I knew it’d be a long shot, but I went and asked. It almost didn’t happen, as security was really strict in here, and they just about allowed the photo to be taken.”

Despite the result, it didn’t ruin the fun of a fantastic weekend. The group are optimistic that Liverpool can get a trophy this season and are also looking forward to planning another trip away.

Scroll down for photos…

Kerry Liverpool fans waiting for the team to arrive at Anfield last Sunday. Photo by Stephen Roche

Kerry Liverpool fans relaxing in their hotel in St Helen's last weekend. Photo by Stephen Roche — Kerry Liverpool fans relaxing in their hotel in St Helen’s last weekend. Photo by Stephen Roche

Kerry Supporters Club members Phillip O'Shea, Helen Moriarty and Nathan Moriarty in Anfield for the game against Manchester United last weekend. Photo by Stephen Roche — Kerry Supporters Club members Phillip O’Shea, Helen Moriarty and Nathan Moriarty in Anfield for the game against Manchester United last weekend. Photo by Stephen Roche

News

PHOTOS: Hundreds Attend Garda Chief Supt Retirement Event For Charity

January 23, 2016 Dermot Crean

AROUND 500 guests attended the retirement function for Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan from An Garda Síochána on Friday at Ballygarry House Hotel.

He retired after over 40 years of distinguished service to the organisation, the majority of which was spent in the Kerry Garda Division.

Guests included Deputy Commissioner Donall O’Cualáinn, Assistant Commissioners John O’Mahoney, Fintan Fanning and Derek Byrne and many more people from the world of politics, sport and the business at the special coffee morning, where all proceeds from the charity event were donated to the Kerry Hospice.

Continued below…

Chief Superintendent Sullivan is a native of County Cork and has served throughout the country during his service. He joined the force in late 1974 and during his career served in Emyvale, Monaghan, Burnfoot, Henry Street, Letterkenny, Killarney, Caherciveen and Tralee.

Tralee-based Superintendent, James O’Connor described Chief Superintendent Sullivan as being “a man who showed great understanding and compassion for the welfare and wellbeing of the Garda members working with him”.

It was acknowledged much of this work was done behind the scenes in a modest and understated manner.

Assistant Commissioner John O’Mahoney referred to the fact that Chief Superintendent Sullivan “always had the interests of the Kerry people at heart”.

He described Chief Superintendent Sullivan’s work ethic as being “steely, determined and compassionate”.

Deputy Commissioner O’Cualáinn extended the regrets of Garda Commissioner Noirin O’Sullivan, who was due to attend but was unable due to unforeseen work commitments.

Deputy Commissioner O’Cualáinn described Chief Superintendent Sullivan as being a very straight and honest individual, who always provided his opinion based on his wide knowledge and experience.

As a member, his self motivation and policing gut instinct were consistent and second to none. His high energy levels, capacity for work and ability to work in a demanding environment were evident throughout his career.

All key speakers, paid tribute to Chief Superintendent Sullivan. He was recognised as a person with tremendous drive and commitment, who made a marked difference to the policing of the Kerry Garda Division. He was wished every success in the future.

He officially retires from the organisation on Saturday and does so with the respect and admiration of all who served with him.

His replacement has not yet been announced.

Scroll down for photos…

Det Brian Mackey, Sgt Kieran O'Connell, Sgt Helena Carey and Det James Hurley at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Det Brian Mackey, Sgt Kieran O’Connell, Sgt Helena Carey and Det James Hurley at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Dave McNamara, Darragh Ó Sé and Dick Boyle at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Brian Hayles, Paul Murphy and Eddie Walsh at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Catriona O'Mahony, Cecelia Scanlon, Inspector Aileen Magner and Garda Stephanie Hegarty at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean — Catriona O’Mahony, Cecelia Scanlon, Inspector Aileen Magner and Garda Stephanie Hegarty at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Jerry Quinlan, Frank Quaid and Tony Horgan at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Myra Kissane, Elaine Burke, Anne Egan, Neily Sullivan and Mary Gardiner at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

Derek Smart and Paul Kennedy at the special fundraising coffee morning, in aid of Kerry Hospice, to mark the retirement of Chief Superintendent Pat Sullivan, on Friday afternoon at the Ballygarry House Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean

News, Uncategorized

Kerry Primary School Pupils Wanted To Take Part In National Awards

January 23, 2016 Dermot Crean

ALL Kerry primary school pupils from 3rd to 6th class are being called upon to take part in the 2016 Our World Irish Aid Awards.

The awards seek to help children in Ireland understand global development issues and Ireland’s role in fighting poverty worldwide.

Through the Awards, pupils learn about the lives of children in developing countries and the work of Irish Aid, the Government’s programme for overseas development.

Pupils then create projects to highlight the challenges facing poor communities in developing countries, and the progress being achieved by Ireland and other countries in the global effort to fight poverty.

Last year St. Ita’s & St. Joseph’s flew the flag for Tralee along with four other Kerry national schools, they were: Dromclough, Loughfouder, Scoil Naomh Eirc and Lyreacrompane who made it to the regional finals.

The theme for 2016 is ‘One World, One Future’.

It will ask pupils to imagine how their world might look in 2030, and enables them to learn about the new United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development, which seek to address the root causes of poverty worldwide.

“I encourage all Kerry schools to get involved in this great programme,” said Minister of State for Overseas Development Assistance, Trade Promotion and North South Cooperation, Sean Sherlock.

“The Our World Irish Aid Awards give pupils from all over Kerry a great opportunity to gain insight into the lives of children in the developing world and convey their understanding through projects which are both creative and educational,” he said.

All entries are assessed on their creativity, understanding of the theme, and their impact.

Projects that illustrate strengths across these three areas will receive an ‘Our World Irish Aid Award’ plaque at regional awards ceremonies in May.

The 12 top entries will win a place at the final awards ceremony in June, where they will receive trophies, with one outstanding project winning the overall ‘Our World Irish Aid Awards’ trophy.

The inaugural Our World Irish Aid Awards Teacher of the Year Award will also be introduced this year, where one teacher will be recognised for their outstanding contribution to the Awards and be invited to act as an ambassador for the 2016-2017 programme.

Over 1,000 primary schools throughout Ireland participated in the Our World Irish Aid Awards in 2015. Registration for the 2016 Awards programme is now open and the deadline for entries is Friday, March 11th 2016.

For more information on how to take part please visit: http://ourworldirishaidawards.ie/

Sport

Two Tralee RFC Players Head Off On Ireland Duty This Weekend

January 22, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

TWO Tralee RFC players are heading to Wales over the weekend as part of the Irish squad for a friendly match in anticipation of this year’s Six Nations Championship.

The Ireland Women’s management team have named Tralee RFC players, Ciara Griffin and Zoe Grattage in the 26-woman squad to play against Wales this Sunday.

The squad also contains Tralee native, Ruth O’Reilly, who plays her rugby with Galwegians/Connacht.

The uncapped fixture, which will also have rolling subs, will take place this Sunday in the CCB Centre for Sporting Excellence in Caerphilly, South Wales.

The fixture will allow Ireland Women’s head coach Tom Tierney a chance to have a final look at the two players before he names his Six Nations squad.

So this could be potentially a make or break weekend for both Ciara and Zoe to make onto the squad of the defending Six Nations champs.

The Six Nations gets underway with a match against Wales on Saturday, February 6.

Full Ireland squad as follows…

Backs (11) –

Niamh Briggs (UL Bohemians/Munster) (capt)
Liz Burke (UL Bohemians/Munster)
Nikki Caughey (Railway Union/Ulster)
Mairead Coyne (Galwegians/Connacht)
Aine Donnelly (Cill Dara/Leinster)
Mary Healy (Galwegians/Connacht)
Claire McLaughlin (Queen’s University/Ulster)
Larissa Muldoon (Skewen/Exile)
Sene Naoupu (Galwegians/Connacht)
Elise O’Byrne White (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
Jackie Shiels (Richmond/Exile)

Forwards (15) –

Elaine Anthony (Highfield/Munster)
Ciara Cooney (Railway Union/Leinster)
Ailis Egan (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
Grainne Egan (St. Mary’s/Connacht)
Paula Fitzpatrick (Toulouse)
Zoe Grattage (Tralee/Munster)
Ciara Griffin (Tralee/Munster)
Claire Molloy (Bristol/Connacht)
Heather O’Brien (Toulouse)
Fiona O’Brien (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
Ruth O’Reilly (GalwegiansConnacht)
Lindsay Peat (Railway Union/Leinster)
Fiona Reidy (UL Bohemians/Munster)
Marie Louise Reilly (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
Sophie Spence (Old Belvedere/Leinster)

Entertainment

Mounthawk Students To Stage Les Misérables At Siamsa Next Week

January 22, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

A CAST of over 60 Mercy Mounthawk students will take the Siamsa Tire stage next Wednesday for the first of four nights performing Les Miserables.

Taking part in the production is a cast made up mainly of transition year students, with a smattering of first, second and fifth year classes.

Over the last few months the cast and crew have worked tirelessly in rehearsal for the show, which will be directed by Tony Behan.

Continued below…

IT Tralee TraleeToday-600x400-Ads-Perks-HR-8 — .

All told, their will be five performances over four days, with a matinee show on Saturday is already proving popular with tickets going fast.

Set during the French Revolution, Les Misérables is the highly successful musical that was turned into a movie in 2012.

The evening shows will run from Wednesday, January 27 to Saturday 30 with the curtain going up for all of them at 8pm. On Saturday the matinee show begins at 11am.

Tickets can be bought from Siamsa Tire by calling them on 066-7123055. €15 for adults, €12 for students.

GAA, Sport

John Mitchels Face Spa Again For Another Crack At Division 1 Promotion

January 22, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

John Mitchels v Spa, Senior County League Division 1 Promotion Playoff Final Replay, Sunday 2pm. Venue TBC

MITCHELS and SPA will get another go at promotion to Division 1 after a passionate encounter in Brosna last week.

Sunday’s match got the blood pumping for a few different reasons.

Before the exciting match finished 1-15 apiece, in extra-time a melee involving players, mentors and even at one point a few fans, threatened to spoil the toughly-contested match.

But thankfully those involved eventually came to their senses and we were treated to a thrilling finale.

On full-time the crowd filtered out of Brosna like what happened was ancient history. It’s the way John Mitchels manager, Ger Dan Dennehy, will be looking at it.

His charges will be focusing on the positives despite squandering a two point lead, late, late on in the match.

“To be honest we left it behind us a small bit all right,” said Ger Dan speaking to TraleeToday.ie on Friday. “You got to give Spa 100% credit as well, they kept going to the bitter end.”

“There was a small bit of disappointment after, but the most important thing to realise is we’re still there. Things would have been a lot worse if we lost by a point. There’s no point in being negative about these things because you can’t do anything about what’s gone.”

“The year has been long so it’s trying to keep fellas motivated is the most important thing, but in general we’re not doing too bad.”

Thankfully, Ger Dan is happy to report no major injuries just a few “bumps and bruises” ahead of the game, which could see a return to Division 1 for the Tralee men for the first time since 2003.

Lifestyle, News

Phil Picks Up A Luxury Hotel Break Thanks To Inspired Fundraiser

January 22, 2016 Dermot Crean

At the presentation of the Inspired Christmas raffle prize to Phil McCarthy, Abbeydorney, at Inspired's base at Friary Lane were, from left; Aisling Collins, Labhaoise O'Connor, David Malone, Marie O'Connor, Phil McCarthy, Breda O'Sullivan, Niamh McCarthy, Tim Landers, Yvonne O'Brien and Kerry O'Mahony. Photo by Dermot Crean — At the presentation of the Inspired Christmas raffle prize to Phil McCarthy, Abbeydorney, at Inspired’s base at Friary Lane were, from left; Aisling Collins, Labhaoise O’Connor, David Malone, Marie O’Connor, Phil McCarthy, Breda O’Sullivan, Niamh McCarthy, Tim Landers, Yvonne O’Brien and Kerry O’Mahony. Photo by Dermot Crean

AN Abbeydorney woman won a luxury weekend for two in a top Killarney hotel thanks to the people at Inspired.

The group, based in their new centre at Friary Lane, ran a Christmas raffle where they sold lines to raise funds to help run the organisation which receives no State support and relies on volunteers to provide its services.

Participants in the Inspired project with an intellectual disability, aspire towards active citizenship, inclusion in the local community, contributing through meaningful work, learning relevant lifeskills,participarting in business and creating through art, craft and drama.

The winner of the draw was Phil McCarthy who collected her prize at the premises on Friday. She receives two nights B&B and one evening meal for two in The Malton Hotel in Killarney. She was delighted with her prize and impressed with the services that Inspired provides.

“The funds raised allow us to continue with Inspired, so it’s of huge importance to us. We’re in a new location – we moved here in October – and we’ll have an official opening on February 14,” said Yvonne O’Brien, volunteer at the centre, who thanked everyone involved in buying and selling lines for the draw.

Inspired are always looking for volunteers to help out so if you’re interested, get in touch via their Facebook page or their website www.inspired.ie

GAA, Sport

The GAA Is Offering A Pretty Good Deal For Kerry’s National League Games

January 22, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

KERRY will go to Croke Park next Saturday for their Allianz National League opener and the GAA are offering a deal that runs throughout the football and hurling campaigns that will save you a few bob.

Tickets at the gate cost €15, but if you buy online, by midnight on the night before the game, they are available at a pre-purchase discounted price of €10 for all Kerry games in Division 1 Football and Division 1B in Hurling.

Continued below…

Kerry of course are stepping up a Division for the Hurling League this year with the likes of Limerick, Wexford and Offaly as visitors to the Kingdom and admission prices are higher – so it’s €10 if you buy in advance for both football and hurling.

Tickets will be available from the usual sources including participating Centra and Supervalu stores throughout the county and from the Kerry GAA Store in the Outlook Centre in Killarney.

The GAA Season Tickets are still on sale from Croke Park and renewals are on-going until January 31.

If you’re thinking of travelling to ‘Croker’ next weekend, Kerry GAA Supporters club will take buses to Dublin on Saturday January 30.

This is a day trip only and all seats must be booked by Wednesday, January 27.

Bus times are as follows: Farranfore 10am; Tralee 10.30 and Listowel 11am. For bookings contact; Donal O’Leary 064 58099, John King 066 7124229 and Martin Leane 087 2452901.

Lifestyle, News

PHOTOS: Ladies Get Together To Plan Even Bigger Reunion Of The Balloonagh Class Of 1991

January 22, 2016 Dermot Crean

IT might have been just a get together to organise a school reunion, but there were many laughs and memories shared by some of the Balloonagh Class of 1991 at Bella Bia on Thursday night.

“It’s just a meeting to organise a bigger reunion at some stage,” said Georgina Hobbert. “It’s been 25 years so it’s long awaited. There were four classes of us back then.”

One former student, Caroline Brosnan, was back from Australia for the meeting on Thursday night.

“I’ve been in Sydney for the past 17 years. My husband [John Kennedy from Lixnaw] and I come home every 1½ to two years. Edel Fitzgerald put out the feelers to see how many of the girls are still around and we’ve a nice gang here tonight. It’s great to get together, some of us haven’t seen each other in 20 years,” said Caroline, who now has two children, Jayden and Eli.

The ladies had a great time catching up but no concrete date has yet been set for the real reunion. If you were part of the Class of 1991 in the school you can find out more by clicking here on their Facebook page.

Scroll down for photos…

Some of the Balloonagh Class of 1991 who met to plan a bigger reunion of the Balloonagh Class of 1991, at Bella Bia on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

Caroline Brosnan, Edel Clifford, Eilish O'Brien and Tracey Foley at a meeting to plan a bigger reunion of the Balloonagh Class of 1991, at Bella Bia on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean — Caroline Brosnan, Edel Clifford, Eilish O’Brien and Tracey Foley at a meeting to plan a bigger reunion of the Balloonagh Class of 1991, at Bella Bia on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

Annemarie McElligott, Melissa Hurley and Georgina Hobbert at a meeting to plan a bigger reunion of the Balloonagh Class of 1991, at Bella Bia on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

Philomena Gleeson and Emer Hobbert at a meeting to plan a bigger reunion of the Balloonagh Class of 1991, at Bella Bia on Thursday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

GAA, Sport

Another Kerry Legend To Feature On TG4 Documentary Series

January 22, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

Declan O'Sullivan playing one his last games with South Kerry last year. Photo by Dermot Crean. — Declan O’Sullivan playing one his last games with South Kerry last year. Photo by Dermot Crean.

RECENTLY retired from football, Declan O’Sullivan will, like so many greats of the game, get the ‘Laochra Gael’ treatment on TG4.

The show is the third of the series and will air at 5.55pm on Sunday, March 6.

The long running GAA documentary series looks at the careers of legends of both football and hurling.

Previously it has featured great Kerrymen such as Pat Spillane, ‘Ogie’ Moran, Jack O’Shea, ‘Bomber Liston and many more.

O’Sullivan is one of a the more recent breed of Kerry footballers to be featured.

Eleven years in green and gold and five All-Ireland senior medals later, the Dromid man has a story worth telling.

The three-time-All-Star called time on his inter-county career at the end of 2014 and retired from the game completely last December after undergoing surgery. Sadly, at the age of 32, the surgery could do nothing to extend his career.

Each of the 10 new programmes in the new season of Laochra Gael contains an extended interview with the subject, archive footage of his finest hour on the pitch and an assessment from friends, rivals and team-mates.

Last July, TG4’s ‘Laochra Gael’ Twitter account dropped a hint when they posted a photo of Declan in front of the camera, captioned “The ultimate Kerry footballer on set…”

An Ciarraíoch agus an laoch Declan O’Sullivan @declansull11 linn ar seit. The ultimate Kerry footballer on set… pic.twitter.com/WAt9Hy5zCm

— Laochra Gael (@Laochra_Gael) July 24, 2015

Full list of shows for new series below…

JJ Delaney (Kilkenny), 5.55pm, Sunday 21 February
Ken McGrath (Waterford), 5.55pm, Sunday 28 February
Declan O’Sullivan (Kerry), 5.55pm, Sunday 6 March
Richie Bennis, 5.55pm, Sunday 13 March
Stephen McDonnell (Armagh), 5.55pm, Sunday 20 March
Eoin Kelly (Tipperary), 5.55pm, Sunday 27 March
John Allen (Cork), 5.55pm, Sunday 3 April
Trevor Giles (Meath), 5.55pm, Sunday 10 April
Annette Clarke (Galway), 5.55pm, Sunday 17 April
The Meehans (Galway), 5.55pm, Sunday 24 April

Entertainment

The Waterboys To Headline Folkfest In Killarney

January 22, 2016 Dermot Crean

THE Waterboys have just been announced as headliners at the Folkfest in the INEC Killarney this July.

One of the leading bands of the folk/country/rock/ scene in Ireland and the UK since the 80’s renowned for their extraordinary music, this is one gig not to be missed for fans on Sunday, July 10.

The second year of Folkfest Killarney is set to surpass all expectations with Christy Moore to headline Saturday night and Damien Dempsey to headline Friday night. Christy Moore will be joined on stage by Máirtín O’Connor, Cathal Hayden, Seamie O’Dowd and Jim Higgins.

Continued below…

Also performing at the festival are Choice Music Award nominee Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Iarla O’Lionáird, Mike McGoldrick Big Band, Maria Doyle Kennedy plus lots more to be announced.

Highlights from 2015 included Moving Hearts, The Unthanks, Begley and Cooney, Lost Brothers, Lynched, Aldoc, Paddy Glackin, The Gloaming with Steve Cooney, Vieux Farka Touré, Kíla Tim Eriksen, Danú, Moxie and Mícheál O Súilleabháin.

So you can look forward to a mix of traditional, contemporary and alternative folk come July 2016.

Early Bird tickets are now on sale: Weekend pass €79 (access to all gigs over the weekend). Friday Early Bird €10. Saturday Early Bird €39. Sunday Early Bird €39.

News, Sport

Now You See It, Now You Don’t…Here’s Where The Famous Painting On The Rock Has Gone

January 21, 2016 Dermot Crean 1 Comment

Screen Shot 2016-01-21 at 15.33.47 — The painting on the corner of Rock Street and Pembroke Street which has been taken down. Photo: Google Images

DID you notice something missing this morning as you were travelling on Rock Street or Pembroke Street this morning?

The painting which adorned the side of The Corner House, where the two streets meet, was absent.

Based on the famous photo of Sean Walsh rising into the sky over Brian Mullins in the 1979 final All-Ireland Final, it was adapted by the artist to replace Brian Mullins with a Cork player, with the Heineken logo on the bottom.

It was erected in the time when The Corner House was operating some years ago and has hung since reminding passers-by of the great tradition of Kerry football on the Rock (even if it features a Strand Road man catching the ball!).

Rock Street Painting 1 — The wall after the painting was taken down on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

The reason for its absence is a section of the frame suffered damage because of the weather recently, so the Council decided to remove it from the wall for safety reasons and it’s being stored at their depot in Rock Street until the owner decides what he wants to do with it.

Let’s hope the painting is restored to its former glory and put back where it belongs soon.

News

PHOTOS: Blennerville School Commemorates 1916 As Irish Army Presents Flag

January 21, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

Receiving the Irish flag from Sgt Denis McGarry were Blennerville National School pupils, Issac Price and Tomas O'Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Receiving the Irish flag from Sgt Denis McGarry were Blennerville National School pupils, Issac Price and Tomas O’Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

IT was Blennerville National School’s turn to receive a tricolour and the Proclamation of Independence to mark the 100 year commemoration of the 1916 rising next year.

Delivering the momentous gifts were Sergeant Denis McGarry and Gunner Paul Moynihan from the Irish Army.

Over the past number of months, members of the Irish Defence Forces have distributed handmade tricolours and a copy of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic to more than 3,000 national schools across Ireland.

While at the schools, Sgt McGarry spoke to the children about the history and importance of our national flag.

During the visit the children got a chance to quiz Sgt McGarry about the 1916 centenary and the army.

Some of the questions included “how many guns do you have?” and other war and weapon-related queries while there were more unusual ones like “are guns made out of fruit and vegetables?” and, oddly, “have you ever seen a cat?”

Scroll down for photos…

Blennerville National School pupils, Jaden Efegbare, Diarmuid Griffin, Daniel Moriarty, Josh O'Sullivan, Michael Dooley and Osin Tobin. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Blennerville National School pupils, Jaden Efegbare, Diarmuid Griffin, Daniel Moriarty, Josh O’Sullivan, Michael Dooley and Oisin Tobin. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Blenerville National School pupils were, from left: Ella Breen, Grace O'Brien, Aoibhinn Corraden and Molly O'Neill. Photo Gavin O'Connor. — Blennerville National School pupils, from left: Ella Breen, Grace O’Brien, Aoibhinn Corridon and Molly O’Neill. Photo Gavin O’Connor.

Blennerville National School pupils, from left: Sarah Brett, Mark O'Brien, Siobhain O'Sullivan and Sean O'Donnell. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Blennerville National School pupils, from left: Sarah Brett, Mark O’Brien, Siobhan O’Sullivan and Sean O’Donnell. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Sgt Denis McGarry and Gnr Paul Moynihan leave Blennerville National School after handing over a tricolour and the proclamation of independence. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Sgt Denis McGarry and Gnr Paul Moynihan leave Blennerville National School after handing over a tricolour and the proclamation of independence. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Gnr Paul Moynihan, speaks to Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Gnr Paul Moynihan, speaks to Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Sgt Denis McGarry speaks to Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Sgt Denis McGarry speaks to Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Sgt Denis McGarry speaks to a Blennerville pupil. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Sgt Denis McGarry speaks to a Blennerville pupil. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Sgt Denis McGarry speaking to a Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Sgt Denis McGarry speaking to a Blennerville National School pupils. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Blennerville National School pupils during a talk given by the two Irish Army men about 1916. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Blennerville National School pupils during a talk given by the two Irish Army men about 1916. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Sixth class pupil, Molly O'Neil, was chosen to read out the proclamation of independence. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Sixth class pupil, Molly O’Neill, was chosen to read out the Proclamation of Independence. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

Entertainment

Top Comedy Act Foil, Arms And Hog For Siamsa Tíre Next Month

January 21, 2016 Dermot Crean

IT Tralee-TraleeToday-600x400-Ads-Perks-HR-7 — .

REPUBLIC of Telly regulars and all-round YouTube sensations, Foil, Arms and Hog are coming to Siamsa Tire next month.

The comedy trio go on a spring tour around the country following sell-out runs in Dublin and Edinburgh and take in a Tralee date.

For the uninitiated, the trio made this video of a Kerryman giving directions which amassed over 110,000 views on YouTube…(continued below)

With over four million hits on YouTube, five exclusives on American comedy website Funny or Die and an endorsement from Rowan Atkinson, Foil Arms and Hog are one of the country’s finest comedy prospects.

They come to Siamsa on Thursday, February 11. Tickets are €16 and can be booked by clicking here or calling Siamsa Tire on 066-7123055. Show starts at 8pm. Check out this great sketch of two oul lads speaking as gaeilge in a pub below…

Business/Property, Entertainment, News

Rose Of Tralee Company Nominated For National Digital Media Award

January 21, 2016 Dermot Crean

THE Rose of Tralee International Festival has been nominated for a media award.

The festival is on a shortlist of nine for an Accenture Digital Media Award in the Best Use Of Social Media category for their Access All Areas campaign.

The description of the nomination reads; “2015 Rose of Tralee International Festival: Access All Areas, giving a behind the scenes, exclusive look at one of Ireland’s favourite and most dynamic festivals. More than just Roses, it brings alive the festival feel good x-factor of live music, family fun, parades, fireworks and fairytale magic.”

The Accenture Digital Media Awards have 27 categories and strive to recognize and celebrate excellence in all aspects of digital media, and aim to give established multi-national corporations and up-and-comers alike an equal chance to showcase their achievements and network.

The awards take place in the DoubleTree by Hilton, Dublin, on Friday, February 19.

To see the full list of categories and nominees click here

Sport

After Irish Call-Up, Ultan Dillane Has Received Another Honour

January 21, 2016 Dermot Crean

ULTAN Dillane is having a good week.

The former Tralee RFC player from Clahane was called up to the 35 man squad for the forthcoming Six Nations matches yesterday, but he also received another honour from his province on Wednesday.

With almost 60% of the votes, the Connacht lock Ultan Dillane was awarded the province’s the Player of the Month for December 2015, in association with Hartmanns of Galway and Seiko Watches.

The 6’ 6” 22-year-old has featured in ten games for Pat Lam’s side this season and started both home games in December against Newcastle and Ulster.

“We have known that Ultan was a great prospect for Connacht for some time and now he is getting recognition at another level in the Ireland squad,” said Richard Hartmann, Director of Hartmann Jewellers. “Everyone at Hartmanns is delighted for him and really pleased to be able to present him with his first Player of the Month award. I would say it’s the first of many.”

We’d say it will be!

Entertainment

VIDEO: Mark Leen Creates Musical Tribute To David Bowie

January 21, 2016 Dermot Crean

WELL-KNOWN Tralee entertainer and businessman, Mark Leen, has created his own musical tribute to the late David Bowie and it’s getting a lot of attention on Facebook.

The singer was a big fan of the musical icon who passed away on January 10 and posted a piece of poetry about Bowie on his Facebook timeline the morning he heard the news.

Continued below…

Later that day he went to Sonas Studio in Killarney to turn it into a song, ‘Our Last Flight With Major Tom’, and now he has posted up the song, with images of Bowie’s different phases of his life in a video on Facebook.

Mark makes reference to Bowie’s songs and song lyrics and the fact that David Bowie was born on January 8 – the same as Elvis Presley, Mark’s all-time inspiration.

Mark was joined on the song by Tony O’Flaherty and Brendan Williams on guitars, while the track was given its title by Francie Conway. The song has a real ELO/Jeff Lynne sound to it and you can listen to it below.

Mark Leen – Our Last Flight With Major Tom | Facebook

News

Atheist Ireland To Hold Events In Tralee This Saturday

January 21, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

ATHEIST Ireland will hold their second information table in Tralee, this Saturday from 12 midday in The Square.

The group will also hold an open meeting in the Abbey Inn at 2:30pm.

At the meeting, several issues will be discussed including, education and faith schools and Atheist Ireland’s schools Equality Pact.

There will also be an opportunity for questions on the challenges as Atheist Ireland sees them and the best solutions for them.

Michael Nugent Chair of Atheist Ireland will be speaking as will Jane Donnelly of “Teach don’t preach” and Peter Hinchliffe, local organiser for Atheist Ireland in Kerry.

Atheist Ireland sees this as an opportunity to come and find out more about the group. They have invited local politicians to attend to give an insight into the group and what they’re all about.

Since 2008, Atheist Ireland has been providing a platform for people who wish to work together to build a rational, ethical and secular society free from superstition and supernaturalism.

Athiest Ireland are looking to build on a small local group, to find people interested in joining the group or simply in getting in touch and maybe attending the monthly secular Sunday Brunch they hold in Tralee which is open to all people with an interest in secularism.

Entertainment

CDs Featuring Students From All Over Kerry Set For Release

January 21, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

Music Mentor Kevin Gleeson with students Lorraine Nash and Sarah Finnan recording music at the KDYS centre in Killarney. Photo Don MacMonagle

TWO CDs by talented young Kerry musicians will be launched by the Cathaoirleach of Kerry, Cllr Pat McCarthy at 2pm on January 30 at KDYS Killarney.

The CDs are the result of two separate projects, both overseen by Kevin Gleeson, former Kerry County Council composer in residence co-funded by the Arts Council.

The first CD, ‘Air is Still’, is songs by Kerry students and the result of work that Kevin Gleeson did with students in schools around the county as part of his residency.

Continued below…

St. Brigid’s Secondary School, Causeway Comprehensive, Coláiste na Sceilge, Pobal Scoil Corca Dhuibhne and Killorglin Community College all have students demonstrating their musical talents on the new CD.

The second CD, ‘Home: Songs by Sarah Finnan and Lorraine Nash’ is the result of mentoring sessions that Kevin gave to two talented Kerry musicians, Lorraine Nash and Sarah Finnan. These sessions were hosted by the KDYS in Killarney and have been funded by Kerry County Council and the Arts Council of Ireland.

“It was an amazing opportunity to work with Lorraine and Sarah” said Kevin Gleeson. “Both are incredibly talented musicians and songwriters and they pair showed immense enthusiasm throughout the mentorship.”

“Both have huge potential as artists and I hope the experience they have gained through this mentorship as well as the industry standard recordings that were produced will give them a great start in their musical careers.”

The mentoring sessions were held over three Saturdays in the KDYS, Killarney which was turned into a mini-recording studio by Kevin.

Music Mentor Kevin Gleeson with students Lorraine Nash and Sarah Finnan recording music at the KDYS centre in Killarney. Photo Don MacMonagle More info: Caroline Lynch Arts Office Kerry County Council Dir Line: 066 7183536 — Music Mentor Kevin Gleeson with students Lorraine Nash and Sarah Finnan recording music at the KDYS centre in Killarney. Photo: Don MacMonagle

News

Dept Confirms Intreo Office Will Reopen On Thursday Morning

January 20, 2016 Dermot Crean

Social Welfare Office — Intreo offices at Godfrey Place.

THE Department of Social Protection has confirmed that the Intreo Centre at Godfrey Place, Tralee will re-open for business tomorrow.

The centre has been closed since January 8 as a result of a kerosene oil spillage at an adjacent business and work had been taking place to ensure a safe environment for staff and the public.

The Department of Social Protection are advising customers living in Tralee and surrounding areas that the Intreo Centre will re-open on Thursday morning, January 21 at 10am.

Soccer, Sport

A Former Park FC Player Was Named In Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Squad Last Night

January 20, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

FORMER Park FC player, Shane McLoughlin, was named in Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich squad for last night’s FA Cup third-round replay against Portsmouth.

The 18-year-old from Castleisland didn’t get chance to make his first team debut in the 2-1 defeat, but his inclusion as a sub for the Championship side represents a significant milestone in his career and increases hopes he’ll be offered a professional contract with the club.

McLoughlin has been capped for Ireland U18’s and is currently on a scholarship at Ipswich.

Continued below…

He joined the club from St Brendan’s Park in July 2013, signing a two-year scholarship with Ipswich. In April 2015, that scholarship was extended for the 2015-16 season.

The highlight for him so far while at the east of England club was helping Ipswich to win a FA Youths Cup last season.

The forward has netted four times in 23 appearances for the clubs U21 side while at U18 level. McLoughlin’s record is a very impressive – 14 in 30 games.

Currently, Ipswich are just outside the Premier League play-off spots, which is promising given Mick McCarthy’s record at getting teams promoted. Shane could do a lot worse than plough his own furrow with the Tractor Boys.

TEAM NEWS: Here’s the #itfc side to face @officialpompey this evening, with plenty of changes made by the boss. pic.twitter.com/bA0iAlwNtB

— Ipswich Town FC (@Official_ITFC) January 19, 2016

Great news to see that past Park FC player Shane mc Loughlin gets a place on the bench tonight for Ipswich Town… https://t.co/raINxqckIo

— St Brendans Park Fc (@_ParkFC) January 19, 2016

News, Sport

Tralee Man Named In 35-Man Irish Six Nations Squad

January 20, 2016 Dermot Crean

IT Tralee TraleeToday-600x400-Ads-Perks-HR-6 — .

FORMER Tralee RFC player Ultan Dillane has today been named in Joe Schmidt’s 35 man squad for the upcoming Six Nations Championship.

He is one of four uncapped players included in the squad where Rory Best takes on the captain’s role.

It’s been a meteoric rise for 22 year old Dillane, who has impressed hugely in the second row for Connaught over the past year and joined the Irish squad for preliminary training at the start of the month.

Continued below…

French-born Dillane moved to his mother’s native Kerry when he was seven years old and played his club rugby with Tralee RFC before attracting the attention of Connacht Academy Manager Nigel Carolan after impressing for Ireland at both under-18 and under-19 level.

Standing at 6ft 6ins, his ball carrying, imposing physicality, and threat at the set piece are just some of his major attributes.

Having made his senior debut for Connacht just over a year ago against Leinster, he signed a two-year contract with the province last January.

Jamie Heaslip has been chosen as vice-captain of the Irish side who play their first game of the Six Nations against Wales at the Aviva Stadium on February 7.

Sport

Tralee Students Off To Taiwan In July For International Children’s Games

January 20, 2016 Dermot Crean

STUDENTS from Tralee and all over Kerry will once again participate at this year’s International Children’s Games and Cultural Festival, which will be held this year in New Taipei, Taiwan in July.

In total 23 athletes will participate in what is the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Games.

Tralee will be represented in boys’ soccer, girls’ basketball and track and field athletics. The host venue, New Taipei, and the participation of over 1500 athletes from around the world, combine to provide an exciting mix of culture, sport, education and social interaction for these young athletes.

Continued below…

“We have been participating and successfully competing at these Games in many disciplines for 11 years now and this year’s event in New Taipei, Taiwan is likely to provide our athletes with fantastic colour and excitement, new experiences of Eastern culture and superb sporting competition” according to Tralee ICG secretary, Mike Culloty.

“It is good to have reached this point now with the teams and selections finalised and players committed to travel, and from this point on we will be full steam ahead into fundraising for the trip and making all the necessary arrangements for travel, registration of athletes, accommodation at the Games, provision of playing gear, and others as required,” said Mike.

Tralee, at the present time, remains the only Irish representative at what is the world’s largest annual multi-sport youth event, and which is supported by the International Olympic Committee.

The athletes selected to represent Tralee, Kerry and Ireland at the New Taipei Games from July 11-16 are as follows:

Soccer:

Paddy O’Rourke, Ronan O’Shea, Booki Nikic, Alex O Connor, Sebastian Vasiu, Tadhg Mc Evoy, James Rusk and Sean Mc Grath.

Athletics:

Fergal O’Brien, Cillian Griffin O’Brien, Basit Oyebonji, Sean Quilter, Harry Emerson, Darragh Courtney, Ciara Mc Carthy.

Basketball:

Rachel Ryan, Maeve Mc Elligott, Ciara Ryan, Anna Lyons, Millie Luck, Katelyn Crowe, Michelle (Shelley) Clifford.

Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle

Zoe’s World: I’m Not Religious But I Don’t Hate On People’s Beliefs

January 20, 2016 Dermot Crean

I’VE said it before and I’ll say it again – the last few years have brought many developments in our society.

People have a new way of thinking and although for the most part that is a very, very good thing, it has led to a new form of censorship.

You can’t say anything without offending someone somewhere. I’m probably offending someone right at this moment simply for just speaking my mind, but there comes a stage when you have to move past that and be who you want to be – within certain limits of course.

A number of years ago, before my time, the Catholic Church ruled over Ireland. Anything that they said was literally gospel. It wasn’t even that long ago that people in Ireland hung on to everything that they said and followed their priests like they were Gods themselves. No divorce, no contraception and definitely nothing outside straight marriages.

In the last number of years that has taken a complete turn and I couldn’t be happier. They no longer have the power to control people’s way of thinking.

Quite a large majority of people are only seen inside a church at weddings or funerals, meaning that they are no longer captivated by the words of any priest whatever they might be saying. Personally, I think that this is a huge step in the right direction.

Before you say anything, I’m 16, I am firmly planted in the 21st century and I believe in the ability to think for yourself. So it only makes sense that I don’t want anyone to tell me what to believe or who to listen to.

However, I think that all of this access to all the information in the world through that magical thing called the internet, has changed some people for the worst.

People now feel that they can spit on other people’s beliefs just because they don’t believe it, or because they read something somewhere that proves everyone else wrong.

This is the downside and it’s becoming a major one.

Obviously this doesn’t just apply to religion, but I think that it’s the one that everyone is afraid to address because the backlash from discussing such a topic is hugely monumental. Which is pretty much exactly what I’m talking about.

I am clearly no advocate for the Church or for any religion per say but I would never ever in a million years start sticking my beliefs down other people’s throats. And before you accuse me of doing so just now, read back over what I have said so far. I have just been stating the facts, nothing more.

Religion is incredibly important to a lot of people – to most people really. Whole belief systems are based on it and who gave you the right to attempt to shatter someone’s belief system?

Sometimes, despite all the facts that people will happily throw in your face, you just believe something because you believe it. Plain and simple.

If religion brings people comfort to people, then let them at it. I don’t see any reason to disagree with them. What could you possibly achieve from doing so?

Think on that one.

Until next week,

• Check out Zoe’s website teentimes.eu and follow her on Twitter here

Entertainment

VIDEO: Tralee Man’s Comedy Sketches Becoming A Hit Online

January 20, 2016 Gavin O'Connor 1 Comment

A TRALEE IT student’s sometimes dark and often peculiar brand of humour has been gaining momentum online and from famous comedians (see videos below).

On Facebook, Shane Clifford’s, short comedy videos on his site ‘Shanes Brilliant Page‘ have been watched a combined 359,953 times.

The sketches have even earned the attention of The Rubberbandits who have shared Shane’s video to their 300,000 plus fans on Facebook.

Continued below…

Also a fan is Scottish comedian, Limmy – whose BBC series ‘The Limmy Show’ has a huge cult following across Britain and Ireland.

“This lad is consistently nailing it,” was the message from The Rubberbandits when last night the Limerick duo shared Shane’s latest offering ‘Shane’s Brilliant Variety Hour – PILOT’.

Working mainly out of his kitchen, Shane began posting videos online in Summer 2014. So far the video ‘Aw Class’ has proved the most popular, with almost 100,000 views.

Another sketch that has had a good response is ‘The Crow’ which features a shirtless Shane, musing about the intelligence and personalities of crows.

The crow video even sparked a minor internet spat with Buzz from Hardy Bucks, who was also doling out crow-related material.

But any allegations of plagiarism was smoothed over and thankfully no was hurt.

See videos below…

Business/Property, News

Ballygarry Hotel Named In Top Ten Hotels In Ireland In Latest Tripadvisor Awards

January 20, 2016 Dermot Crean

A TRALEE hotel has been named in the Top Ten hotels in Ireland in the 2016 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice awards.

Ballygarry House Hotel came in tenth position with the only other Kerry hotel in the top 10, The Brehon, one place above them in ninth. Ballygarry also finished 16th in the Best Service category.

Killarney Hotels featured prominently in the Top 25 with The Muckross Hotel and Spa (14), the Killarney Park (15), The Lake Hotel (16), The International Hotel (17) and The Dunloe in Beaufort in 19th position.

Continued below…

Dingle’s Castlewood House was the big Kerry winner named as No.1 in Ireland in the Small Hotel, Best Service and Bargain categories, while it was 13th in the world in the Best Small Hotel category, and 20th in the world in the Bargain category.

Foss’s Lough Lein Country House was 2nd in the Irish Small Hotels category, Heaton’s of Dingle in 4th, The Ross in Killarney in 7th, Brook Lane in Kenmare 8th, the Killarney Royal in 18th, The Fairview Killarney in 21st and Brook Lodge Killarney in 24th.

Heaton’s of Dingle was 2nd in the Bargain category with the River Island Hotel in Castleisland in 14th.

In the Luxury category, The Dunloe Hotel was 4th, The Europe Hotel & Resort in Killarney 8th, the Killarney Park 9th, The Fairview Killarney 12th, the Muckross Hotel and Spa in 17th, Aghadoe Heights Hotel in 21st and Sheen Falls Lodge in 24th.

Kerry hotels dominate the Best Service category too with six in the Top 10 – Castlewood House (1), Lough Lein Country House (2), Killeen House (3), Heaton’s Dingle (4), The Ross (6), The Dunloe (8) while in featuring in the Top 25 were Ballygarry House Hotel (16), the Killarney Park (21).

In the B&Bs and Inns category, Friar’s Glen in Killarney took second place, the 19th Lodge in Ballybunion was 4th, the Forest Of The Roses and Browne’s Bed and Breakfast in Dingle were 6th and 7th respectively, Tides B&B in Ballybunion was 13th, Burke’s Mulber House in Killarney was 20th and QC’s in Cahersiveen in 24th.

TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Irish hotels are as follows:

1. Harvey’s Point, Co. Donegal
2. Ashford Castle, Cong, Co. Mayo
3. The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
4. Castle Durrow, Co. Laois
5. The River Lee Hotel, Cork
6. Adare Manor, Co. Limerick
7. Hayfield Manor, Cork
8. Dromoland Castle, Co. Clare
9. The Brehon, Killarney, Co. Kerry
10. Ballygarry House Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry

The TripAdvisor awards honour the world’s most outstanding properties across several categories, with results based on millions of reviews and opinions collected from users over the past year.

GAA, Sport

Second Phase Of Redevelopment Has Begun At Austin Stack Park

January 20, 2016 Gavin O'Connor

Work has begun on the second phase of redevelopment in Austin Stack Park. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Work has begun on the second phase of redevelopment in Austin Stack Park. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

AS part of long term plans to upgrade all facilities at Tralee’s Austin Stack Park, the second phase of renovations have commenced at the grounds over the last week or so according to the Kerry GAA website.

The second phase of development involves the following…

• The levelling and concreting of the John Mitchels end terracing
• Installation of a new modern floodlighting system
• Removal of the wire perimeter fencing to be replaced with a spectator friendly low wall topped by metal horizontal bars
• The perimeter wall will have safety gates to allow pitch access for spectators in the event of emergency
• Upgrading of the team dugouts to include elevated seating

Continued below…

This phase of the development is specifically targeting urgent requirements under the Slattery Health and Safety Report and in effect, the completion of these works will ensure that the capacity of the grounds will be maintained at the highest level.

The first phase of course involved the resurfacing and laying of a sand based pitch with associated drainage works. The pitch is in wonderful shape right now despite the adverse weather conditions over the past couple of months.

It is hoped to complete these renovations by March 6th when the grounds will re-open to host the Allianz League double bill when Kerry play Wexford in hurling and Donegal in Football.

The Munster Under 21 football championship game against Tipperary will be held on the following Wednesday evening under lights.

Despite the inclement weather over the past few months, the new service is holding uo very well. Photo by Gavin O'Connor. — Despite the inclement weather over the past few months, the new surface is holding up very well. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

traleetoday.ie

PHOTOS: Tralee Secondary School Students Win At Cross Country Event

For full results, scroll down past the photos below…

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VIDEO/PHOTOS: Tom And Anne Are Kings Of The ‘Castle’ At Strictly Event

PHOTOS: Local Liverpool Fans Enjoy Anfield Trip…Despite Losing To Bitter Rivals

Stephen Roche joined the Kerry Liverpool Supporters Club on a trip to Anfield last weekend. Despite the 0-1 defeat to Manchester United, he said the trip was worthwhile to see the Reds in action…

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Kerry Primary School Pupils Wanted To Take Part In National Awards

Two Tralee RFC Players Head Off On Ireland Duty This Weekend

Mounthawk Students To Stage Les Misérables At Siamsa Next Week

John Mitchels Face Spa Again For Another Crack At Division 1 Promotion

Phil Picks Up A Luxury Hotel Break Thanks To Inspired Fundraiser

The GAA Is Offering A Pretty Good Deal For Kerry’s National League Games

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Top Comedy Act Foil, Arms And Hog For Siamsa Tíre Next Month

Rose Of Tralee Company Nominated For National Digital Media Award

After Irish Call-Up, Ultan Dillane Has Received Another Honour

VIDEO: Mark Leen Creates Musical Tribute To David Bowie

Atheist Ireland To Hold Events In Tralee This Saturday

CDs Featuring Students From All Over Kerry Set For Release

Dept Confirms Intreo Office Will Reopen On Thursday Morning

A Former Park FC Player Was Named In Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Squad Last Night

Tralee Man Named In 35-Man Irish Six Nations Squad

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Zoe’s World: I’m Not Religious But I Don’t Hate On People’s Beliefs

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Ballygarry Hotel Named In Top Ten Hotels In Ireland In Latest Tripadvisor Awards

Second Phase Of Redevelopment Has Begun At Austin Stack Park

Your Daily News From The Kingdom's Capital