Connect Magazine-Issue 47_May 2018

- Best Beauty Buys for the Summer The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

FREE

re-opens with a new look

PLEASE TAKE ME MAY 2018

Una Healy

living the dream

AIDAN O'MAHONY'S

New Business Venture

FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE ....Made in Kerry, for Kerry

Conne ct| Adv e rtising

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EDITOR NOTE Hello again and welcome to CONNECT, Lots happening this month, the nominations will have closed by the time you get to read us here and it’s all systems go for the 4th Annual Connect Kerry Women in Business Awards to honour all the wonderful business women in Kerry. We thank you all for taking the time to nominate and be part of this great event, it’s now over to the judges to make their decisions, we are looking forward to meeting everyone at our Gala Ceremony on Friday May 25th at the wonderful Ballyroe Heights Hotel.

Other news this month . . . Una Healy has launched a new shoe collection so Marisa caught up to hear all about it, attending her recent launch in Dublin the collection is amazing and well worth checking out.

We also met with Aidan O'Mahony as he launches his new fitness business and we paid a visit to the newly refurbished Dunloe Hotel and Gardens and I have to say this is breath-taking, so definitely one for your trip around the county this year.

We have all the usual tips, check out our new pages with best buys for you this summer, our food page this month has some delicious fish recipes from Mark Doe. We are also launching our Cocktails and Canapes event . . . a lovely summer evening out with the girls to enjoy lots of tips and advice on fashion, health beauty and lots more, supporting Chernobyl.

Summer is coming and we are looking forward to hearing what’s happening in your town so don’t forget to contact us with your updates.

So we hope you enjoy your favourite monthly read!

Until next month

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Design: Laura A. Hartnett Print: Kingdom Printers Photography: John Walsh Photography 066 7123777 Email: info@johnwalsh.ie | www.johnwalsh.ie Contributors: Marcas Mac Domhnaill, John Canty, Ken Tobin, Marisa Reidy, Caroline McEnery Caroline Smith, Zoe O Connor, Catherine Keane, Lorraine Byrne, Eileen Lane.

Beauty Editor: Romy Birdthistle For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

Aching Joints?

Aching joints are a natural part of ageing but did you know you can slam the brakes on the cartilage deterioration that causes pain and discomfort? The formula that is gaining momentum as the supplement for worn down joints is a combination of GLUCOSAMINE AND CHONDROITIN. Ouch! Aching knees, cracking noises. .you probably know the feeling. Along with painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications from your GP, there is also a natural shell fish extract called glucosamine. It may help osteoarthritis (the clinical term for damaged cartilage).

This natural and safe supplement has several benefits to help restore proper functioning of the joints: :: May help to stop further cartilage deterioration :: Supports the bodies build up of healthy cartilage tissue :: May help relieve pain :: Helps improve joint mobility Dozens of studies have been carried out with Glucosamine. The research shows how this remedy, when compared with “dummy pills” (placebo), curbs pain, stops cartilage loss and helps restore quality of life by enabling people to move without discomfort after about two to three months of supplementation.

Today, leading rheumatologists recommend glucosamine to patients with osteoarthritis, especially knee osteoarthritis which seems to respond particularly well to this supplement.

Glucosamine has been used for decades to treat similar symptoms in e.g.horses but it has only recently become an option in human medicine.

Some of the good quality glucosamine supplements you will find in store include: QUEST, VIRIDIAN, SOLGAR 7 and OPTIMA. Call in and have a chat with us and we will be happy to discuss which product suits your specific needs.

Until next time, stay healthy.

Deirdre x

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UNA HEALY living the dream

By Marisa Reidy SHE’S probably best known as the hugely successful pop star who made up one fifth of former chart- topping group, The Saturdays, but Tipperary native Una Healy has proven that there’s a whole lot more to her impressive CV than just pop!

Just last month, the budding entrepreneur launched her very own show collection, Una Healy Original, to great fanfare - an experience which she says has been ‘a dream come true.’

Una told Connect that the collection has been in the pipeline for over a year now and says it feels surreal to finally see her creations on the shelves of some of Ireland’s leading footwear stores.

“I’m absolutely delighted to finally see this become a reality", Una told Connect. “It’s so exciting to see the collection come together and see it being received so well already. To be honest it’s a dream come true for me.”

The self-confessed shoe fanatic explained that the concept first got bandied about over a year ago, when family friends first put the idea to her.

“It kind of all started out when family friends in Monaghan, who own a shoe shop, were talking to someone else who had designed shoes and thought it would be a great idea for me to create my own collection,” she explained. “I loved the idea and we began looking into it, but it’s definitely a year or more since we had our first meeting about it.”

But even with all her drive and enthusiasm for this exciting project, Una says she still questioned whether or not this dream of

hers would ever become a reality...

“Even though we were discussing things and talking seriously about the collection, I never imagined it would actually happen, so to see the collection come together is so exciting for me. It’s definitely scary seeing my face and photos of the collection everywhere,” she joked “but it’s so exciting and the support so far has been wonderful.”

The collection itself features over 100 different styles, Una explained, and reflects the styles and trends she herself likes. She is very hands on with the design aspect of the collection, and says there’s something to suit everyone.

“The collection is full of everything I would wear myself and I would have a huge part to play in the design,” she said. “We discuss current trends and the collection reflects the styles I’m into and what’s fashionable at the moment. There’s everything from flats to mid heels to high heels in a range of colours and styles, with over 100 styles altogether, so there’s a huge choice.”

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Despite throwing herself into the new collection, Una says that music still remains a huge passion of hers and explains that despite no longer being part of a hugely successful pop group, she is currently embracing life as a solo artist.

While she misses being part of the group – which split in 2014 - and the fun times with her fellow band mates, she says she loves being able to express her own style of music in her solo work.

“The Saturdays was a huge part of my career for sure and I do sometimes get nostalgic and miss the company of the girls, but there comes a time when you have to move on,” Una said. “I’m really lucky to still be writing and performing and it allows me to show something different and the style of music that I love. In a way it’s like starting all over again.”

Having released her brand-new single entitled 'Never See Me Cry' in March - the first release from an EP due later in the year - Una is currently gearing up for a solo tour, which incidentally kicks off with a show in Killarney’s INEC on June 16th.

“I love the INEC, it’s a great hub for music so the gig will be a lot more stripped back. It will have more of a folk and country feel to it,” she says – rather unsurprisingly, given that her famous uncle is none other that renowned country star, Declan Nerney.

“It’s all about enjoying the experience and enjoying what I do. I always do my best to put everything into the gig and give people the show they deserve. I also love hearing feedback from people who say they really enjoyed a show and speaking about what my songs mean to them, so that’s really how I measure my success. The Killarney show will be a mix of my own original music and some covers.”

Una is of course now based in Northampton where her rugby-star husband Ben Foden is contracted – but despite her hubby’s exploits on the field for the English, Una says she is and will forever be - Munster by heart.

“It doesn’t matter if Munster are playing Northampton, I’ll always shout for Munster and he knows that,” Una joked, admitting that she loves to get to home matches at Thomond Park as often as she can.

Una’s pride and joy, of course, are her two small children – six year old Aoife Belle and Tadhg (3), who are also regular visitors to Ireland. And with Irish names like those, how could they not be reminded of their Irish roots?

“I go back quite a lot with the kids with work and gigs and it’s important for me that they know they are half Irish and where they come from,” she said. “We were actually back home in Ireland at Easter and we had a lovely time.”

Una credits her husband Ben with helping support her career, saying that he is very much a hands-on dad, which allows her to fulfil her career dreams.

“We absolutely share the responsibility 50/50 and for both of us being a parent is our number one job,” she said. “The children are without doubt my number one achievement.”

So how is Aoife Belle taking to mommy’s new shoe collection – every young girl’s dream, surely?

“She reminds me so much of me sometimes,” Una jokes. “Like all little girls, she loves trying on the high heels over her own shoes and particularly likes anything that’s pink and sparkly of course. She’s delighted with the collection of course.”

Una’s new shoe collection is currently available online @unahealyoriginal.com and at leading footwear stores across the country and she says she is hugely excited about the buzz that it has already created – and what lies in store!!

“The shoes are currently available in most stores across the country and I honestly have been thrilled with the feedback and support the collection has been getting,” she said. “It’s allowing me to relive my youth in a way and that’s great.”

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HOW I GOT HERE ....

Aidan O'Mahony

By: Mary Lucey (Principal, Kerry College of Further Education) Aidan O'Mahony is known as a member of the Garda Siochana, an Irish Gaelic footballer who played for the Kerry senior football team and last year we saw him going completely out of his comfort zone partaking and ultimately winning Dancing with the Stars. Even though he has achieved great success through his work and sporting career, Aidan has always had a passion for fitness and just recently saw that turned that passion into a reality when his career took another route through the launch of his Fitness Business. This is an on-line fitness tool for all - beginners and experts.

About myself…

I am a member of An Garda Síochána based in Tralee. I am attached to Community Policing. Community policing stresses policing with and for the community rather than policing of the community. It aspires to improve the quality of life in communities. In improving the quality of life it aims to solve community problems alongside the community and as defined by the community. In addition to my Garda role, I am currently studying a Degree with Setanta College in Strength & Conditioning. I decided to take on this programme as I already had the personal insight and experience of Strength & Conditioning from my sporting career but wanted the academic qualification to back this up.

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The programme is designed to produce specialist coaching professionals capable of working in strength and conditioning, health and fitness and physical activity related fields. It also equips me with the knowledge and skills to lead long term sport, health and fitness, physical activity and strength and conditioning programme development. It is an all-encompassing programme and has provided invaluable insight for me on the world of strength & conditioning. It has also served as the catalyst for my new on-line fitness website for all - AOM Fitness.

Describe your new industry sector: The Sport and Fitness sector includes a

wide range of activities from outdoor pursuits, to competitive sport, recreational sport, health and fitness activities. Sports media and sports tourism can also be included in this sector.

The industry has expanded as people continue to become more and more health conscious. The increasing professionalisation of sport, together with the regulation of the sector, means that experience of fitness techniques alone is not usually enough and academic qualifications are also a must.

The popularity of gym, health and fitness clubs has grown hugely in recent years as more and more individuals

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see fitness as integral to their personal health.

With the focus firmly on healthy living, there has been unprecedented growth and development in the modern fitness industry with an increase in the number of gym memberships bought and different services – including boot camps – coming onto the market. Indeed, there is now more demand for enlightened fitness professionals. Although I am just entering this chosen career now. it has always been a dream that I aimed to achieve.

What did you do when you left school?

Upon leaving school, I started a course on Electronic Engineering in College, I quickly realised that this course did not suit me and transferred to a course on Computer Engineering. While studying on that I was called for An Garda Síochána, I was successful as an applicant and began as a trainee in Garda College in 2004. I was always interested in becoming a member of An Garda Síochána when I was in school. I also believed that I should go to College first to see if that was a better option. However, when offered the option to join the guards there was no doubt in my mind what my decision would be and I know now I made the right decision becoming a member of An Garda Síochána. I haven't looked back since!

believe hugely in the power of fitness in helping and at times even overcoming illhealth be it physical or mental. I personally train twice a day and know it has a huge positive impact on my life. I am also aware that some people have only a very small window of opportunity to try and exercise or build Aidan O'Mahony and Margaret Kissane (Conn e ct Maga z ine ) in a fitness routine.

That is why I am so enthusiastic about my new website as it is aimed at all life. I always love a challenge and this ages - young and old and at all levels new website venture is something of fitness. I want to be a role model for I’m really looking forward to working people to get fit and healthy as they on and seeing how it develops and will all take something that relates to grows. As always, I will leave no stone unturned. them from the site.

What about career changes?

I wouldn’t change anything, I believe the road I have taken has made me the person I am today, I have made plenty of mistakes and had plenty of set backs, butI learned from them.

These hurdles I had to overcome made me more determined and focused in life. I have been fortunate to remain on the same career path and also to add another career to my journey in

Advice for those starting on their career paths?

You always have the decision to do what you want in life, don’t let any person tell you otherwise. If it’s not for you, go do something else and always surround yourself with positive people !!!

Aidan O Mahony's new website WWW.AOMFITNESS1.COM officially launched Friday 27th April, check it out!

When did you first become passionate about the Fitness Business?

I think anyone that knows me is aware that fitness and health are very important to me, I love the fact that fitness is now the new “Social Scene”. I

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Mary Lucey may be contacted at MaryLucey@kerryfe.ie or at 066-7121741.

Pictures: John Walsh Photography. Location: Nisus fitness, Tralee

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A Fashion Experience Showcasing Summer Collections from Top Irish & Kerry Designers with a Focus on Sustainable Fashion “An Enchanted Forest” - A fashion evening featuring top designers & boutiques showcasing Summer Collections, with a dedicated presentation on sustainable fashion, will be held on Midsummer’s night, Thursday 21st of June, in the spectacular setting of Sheen Falls Lodge, Kenmare, County Kerry. Tickets are priced at €85 tickets can be purchased from Eventbrite or online directly from orladiffily.eu The evening will feature collections from Helen Steele, Alison Conneely, Sarah Murphy, Alice Halliday, Carol Kennelly, Tina Griffin, Hazel Comyn, Aoife Hannon, Delphine Grandjouan and House of Kerry. Special guest on the night is international Womenswear Designer Colin Horgan, who is from Ardfert in Kerry and now based in London. Colin Horgan has dressed Lady GaGa, Little Mix and Dua Lipa and is widely considered one of Ireland’s fashion's brightest young talents on the world stage.

The pre show salon boutique show will feature summer and sustainable labels from MacBees Killarney, Annburys Tralee, Jasmine boutique with bespoke headpieces by Cathy Troth and Hannons of Castleisland.

The best dressed lady on the evening will win an overnight stay in an Estate Room in Sheen Falls Lodge including full Irish Breakfast and dinner for 2 in The Falls Restaurant. Thank you to Sheen Falls for sponsoring this wonderful prize. Judges will be looking for an outfit with a sustainable twist.

The evening will commence with a fine wines & canapés reception outdoors in the beautiful surroundings overlooking the picturesque Sheen Falls accompanied by a salon styled fashion show featuring Kerry boutiques.

Guests will then move for the main show into the William Petty Suite within Sheen Falls, which will be transformed in a magical enchanted forest. This show will exclusively feature new Summer collections from selected Irish and Kerry designers and a 12 | Connect Kerry | May 2018

separately styled presentation on sustainable fashion.

Each guest will also receive a complimentary gift bag.

Midsummer’s night, Summer Solstice, has been celebrated throughout time as a magical and enchanting evening. The height of the Summer in the Northern hemisphere and the longest day of the year, it is a fitting occasion to focus on new Summer trends and fashion’s sustainable future. Many of the designers on the evening will create special pieces for the event, making it unmissable for fashion lovers. It also promises to be a most enjoyable and fun evening with surprise guests.

Sustainability is now the big conversation in fashion and everyone can join in! Essentially it is all about asking where is a product from (ie where is it made and are those who make it fairly paid); what is it made from (natural or man-made materials), how often will you wear it (is it an investment piece - or wear once) and what happens when you discard it (landfills and waste management are becoming an increasing expensive and hazardous issue)? There are many strands to being more sustainable in your own everyday life and purchase decisions - including supporting local designers (thereby reducing the carbon foot print and generating employment), buying sustainable fabrics, re-wearing and sharing your own clothing, up-cycling, re-cycling and generally being more aware of the story behind what you are wearing.

The evening will be produced by fashion PR & events consultant, Orla Diffily who is also a fashion contributor on Ireland’s top afternoon show RTE Today and has co-produced KFW fashion week and the Ireland Fashion Showcase New York.

Creative Director, Ann Marie O’Leary, will create an Enchanted Forest using locally foraged foliage and florals and style the opening presentation.

Models are from Upfront Model Management and staging is by Ray Stack Productions.

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Launch of MANOR WEST

FOOD AND CRAFT FAIR AWARDS The Mayor of Kerry, John Sheahan, launched the Manor West Food and Craft Fair Awards at Manor West Shopping Centre and Retail Park on Friday 20th April.

The awards, in association with the Kerry Local Enterprise Office (LEO), will be an opportunity for Kerry’s finest food producers and craftspeople, whose thriving businesses celebrate all the county has to offer, to be recognised for their excellence and an Sheah Derek Rusk - Manor West Centre Manager, John entrepreneurship. & or Advis ess Busin Leahy Mayor of Kerry and Fiona Office prise Enter Local Kerry r, inato Coord ng Throughout the year, Traini Manor West hosts Food and Craft Fairs which tell the story of Kerry’s vibrant culinary and creative scene by showcasing the wealth of artisan producers and diverse local entrepreneurs, providing them with a space to exhibit their delicious locally-made produce and beautiful handmade crafts free of charge.

Due to the phenomenal success of the fairs, and to create exciting opportunities and open new doors for the producers involved, Manor West decided to launch these awards.

Mayor of Kerry, John Sheahan, who launched the awards said, “I am delighted to be here today to launch the Manor West Food and Craft Fair Awards. There is an abundance of local talent in Kerry, and it is extremely important that we nurture this talent and create opportunities for these small businesses to excel. These awards will recognise the significant contribution such businesses make to the local economy, as well as to Kerry’s vibrant cultural scene, and I am sure they are going to be a huge success.”

The Kerry LEO will present the winner with a VIP package, which includes: business mentoring, a training course or courses of their choosing in 2018/2019 and a Trading Online Voucher to a maximum of €2,500 (subject to terms and conditions). They will also win an opportunity to exhibit their produce in a Pop Up Shop once a week in the Manor West Shopping Centre free of charge (subject to terms and conditions), as well as promotion through the Manor West Facebook and Twitter pages, and website. In addition to this, the winner will receive a full page advert in Conne ct Maga zine and a double page interview in Conne ct Bu sine ss Maga zine .

Fiona Leahy, Business Advisor and Training Coordinator with Kerry LEO, was eager to get involved in this initiative and said, “At the Local Enterprise Office we do everything we can to support small Kerry businesses and help them thrive, because we understand the great value that they add to the local economy. It is wonderful to see the entrepreneurial flair that these producers have shown and we are thrilled to be on board with the Manor West Food and Craft Fair Awards, which will help to fuel this ambition and give each small business every chance at success. ” Speaking about the awards, Derek Rusk, Centre Manager, said, “We are thrilled to launch the Manor West Food and Craft Fair Awards, which is our way of recognising the excellence of Kerry’s food and craft producers who exhibit at our Food and Craft Fairs. We are passionate about supporting local businesses, and we are excited about the opportunity that these awards will offer to the winner. We can’t wait to see all the wonderful food and craft producers that will take part over the year!”

The public can vote for their favourite stall at each Manor West Fair, as well as through social media on the Manor West Facebook page. The votes, along with a final judgement by Manor West Management and the Kerry LEO, will determine the winner who will be announced at the final fair of the year on December 9th 2018.

For more information on Manor West Shopping Centre and Retail Park and the Food and Craft Fair Awards please visit www.manorwest.ie or find them on Facebook and Twitter.

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Finding the right Montessori Preschool for your child Montessori preschool directress Maria McGrath has been educating children since 1972 and is proprietor of the longest running Montessori School in Ireland. After moving to Kerry in 1980 from her hometown of Cashel Co. Tipperary with husband Eugene McGrath, Benin Casa Montessori preschool was established. At first it was a small but busy little school in a house at Basin View Tralee. It was then moved to the grounds of her current homeplace Ballyvelly House Tralee operating now for nearly forty years. It now occupies over 40 students between two classrooms and employs five staff.

Marie has educated hundreds of Tralee’s community members including her five children and feels incredibly blessed and privileged to still be in business and working today, educating past pupil’s children.

We all want whats best for our kids and choosing the right education should begin at a very young age so we asked Marie Mcgrath Irelands longest running Montessori Directress for her tips when choosing.

Important things to look out for when applying to a Montessori preschool: Parents need to be vigilant when enquiring for places in a “Montessori” preschool setting. While the HSE ensure that ratios, floor space, health and safety regulations, policies, staff vetting etc are being met in all preschool services it’s important that you enquire about the school’s accreditions with AMI (The association of Montessori International) and staff qualifications if the school is operating as a “Montesssori school.”

The word “Montessori” has not been copyrighted and it’s quite common that some services use the term in their school’s name without having staff trained in Montessori Education or using any authentic Montessori materials.

We must stress that it is now up to the parent to educate themselves about your child’s preschool options especially now that you have the opportunity to avail of the DCYA’S ECCE Scheme providing all children with equal opportunities and standards in preschool education having their two years in preschool now subsidised by the government.

How to know if a school is an authentic Montessori school?

The school must be licensed by the A.A.T.I. (Association of A.M.I. Montessori Teachers of Ireland) and must be accredited by the I.M.E.B Irish Montessori Education Board.

From annual inspections The Irish Montessori Education Board ensure MEDITATION that all staff members are adequately trained to provide such high standards of Montessori education 8 || CC onne ct KK e rry MM a rch 2018 16 onnect erry| | ay 2018

experiences to its students and that the Montessori materials within the environment are conducive to implementing the Montessori curriculum and ethos to its students, parents and wider community in giving back.

The school age range is from 3 years to 6 years and we also implement schemes such as AIMS (access and inclusion model) where we integrate children with additional needs into our Montessori community.

Montessori is a teaching methodology inspired and devised by Dr. Maria Montessori, Montessori was the first woman to study medicine and the first woman to be nominated for a Nobel peace prize for her incredible research and studies of children with additional needs. She was a woman before her time, creating learning environments of inclusion and integration for those with mental, emotional, social and behavioural issues at a time where individuals of such needs where usually outcasted.

"Montessori" is not a system for training children in academic studies but a method of observing and following the interests of children, and continually adapting the environment from which they learn, by means of experimentation and research, what they need to know in order to contribute to society and the environment, and to become fulfilled persons in their particular time and place on Earth.

Children enjoy respected choice and uninterrupted concentration.

During this time they are allowed to focus and make progress on work/play of their own choice, with materials to which they have been introduced by the adult. This daily period of meditation and focus, of concentration on purposeful activity involving the mind, body and spirit working together, results in feelings of satisfaction, peace, and love toward others, and a high level of progress in physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual development. This is a key element of an authentic Montessori preschool.

Subjects include: Practical Life - This includes preparing small meals for themselves and their friends.

It includes polishing, pouring, threading, pegging & dressing frames. These are the very first Montessori activities the children take part in, developing their abilityto look after themselves and their surroundings.

Many of these exercises are designed to strengthen your child’s finger muscles, refine fine/gross motor skills, develop handeye co-ordination and sense of esteem in

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their “I can do it” mentality and contribution to their classroom.

Sensorial Life - This includes touch boards, sound boxes, smelling bottles and other activities to master isolated senses. The materials in this area are designed to encourage development and refinement of the senses Language - This includes insets for design & sandpaper letters. Initially your child will be exposed to language through songs, rhymes, imagination and creative-writing. Your child’s writing skills will be developed, by tracing around templates, e.g. square, circle etc.

Introduction to letters will be through phonetics. Phonetic means by the sound of the letter rather than by its name. They will learn how to build words using the moveable alphabet, the object surprise box and other fun activities like “the action word game” Maths - golden beads, addition, subtraction, odds, evens, teens, 100’s etc.

Geography, History, Science - the big bang, planets, earth, the continents, the seas, other cultures, land formations, experiments etc.

Horticulture, Planting, Garden learning - being excavators, digging, collecting, respecting nature, care of our environment etc.

Irish-colors, numbers, greetings!

Well Being - Yoga, Meditaion, Mindfulness, Healthy eating, Gratitude rituals, visualisation using their imaginations, how to self love, care of our Ponies, resolving conflicting situations together discussing and exploring feelings safely through role play and storytelling using books written by child psychologists.

Drama, Mime, Music, Song and Dance - we have our annual x-mas show in December in our school hall and we close in June with a Graduation Day and Summer Garden Extravaganza show of Music and Yoga for all of our families to come and see us perform.

While Benin Casa Montessori is full for September 2018 and 2019 we do operate a waiting list system. If a place becomes available which can and does happen we will contact you.

We do have places available for 2020 but these too are filling up fast so we urge you if interested to make contact with us as soon as possible to come and visit us, discuss your options and to fill out an application form.

Benin Casa is running a summer camp for all children from the ages of 3-7 years. If your child is younger but toilet trained they are welcome also. Camps operate for the month of July from 8:30am-1:30pm. We are closed for August. Please contact us if interested to secure a place.

Rosie McGrath School Manager 0851135041 Maria McGrath School Directress 0872195420 Connect Kerry | May 2018 | 17

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The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens opens its doors after €18million renovation The five star Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, located close to one of Ireland’s most iconic tourist destinations, the Gap of Dunloe, officially opened its doors on Friday 27th April after undergoing a stunning 18-month renovation of the restaurant, bar, reception, lobby and lounge spaces as well as the enhancement of the gardens and carpark.

A substantial €18million investment by the hotel’s owners the Liebherr family, has brought new life to the hotel, enhancing its longstanding relationship with the beautiful surroundings and maximising the property’s unrivalled views of the Gap of Dunloe. The Liebherr family has been at the forefront of tourism and manufacturing industries in Killarney and the surrounding areas for over 60 years, employing 1,000 people across the country. Tánaiste Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade, joined Dr Isolde Liebherr to celebrate and welcome the reopening of this magnificent 5-star hotel.

Speaking at the official re-opening, Tánaiste Simon Coveney TD said, “It is my great pleasure to open a new jewel for tourists in Ireland, in a place that is one of the jewels in the crown of our entire tourist industry. The Liebherr family’s commitment to Ireland, with more than 1000 employees, is so important and appreciated. The rebirth of this hotel is a further sign of the Liebherrs’ dedication”.

Local building contractors Griffin Brothers led the year and a half long renovation with the assistance of O’Carroll Engineering who implemented the building’s steel works.

At the height of the build, the site had over 160 people working across all areas, including Tralee company Designer Landscapes Ltd who, along with Head Gardener Dave Barry, updated the gardens and outdoor spaces using a beautiful collection of native and international flora and greenery and finished with Kilkenny limestone.

Swiss company Monoplan took the lead on the design aspect of the build. Despite updating and reinventing the hotel spaces, the Monoplan team was eager to retain and reinforce existing elements of the property that made it so special. The transformation begins at the driveway where guests instantly 20 | Connect Kerry | May 2018

perceive the Dunloe Castle Heritage Park with its unique tree population.

The public areas of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens were redesigned and rebuilt to ensure optimum efficiency and accessibility throughout the hotel. The primary focus of the build was to retain the identity and integrity of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens to give guests a sense of homecoming with the familiar silhouette of the two towers and an interior design that relates to the tradition of the hotel. It was equally important to create a whole new building with extraordinary spaces, new terraces and a design that lives up to the expectations of a 5-Star Hotel.

Managing Partner at Monoplan, Philip Wohlfarth, said of the renovation, “The double height window in The Grill Restaurant ensures that everyone will be able to take in the beauty of the Gap of Dunloe. The new terraces and enhanced landscaping will allow the hotel’s customers to sit outside and enjoy the magnificent surroundings”.

The restaurant overlooks the iconic view of the Gap of Dunloe in spectacular fashion, with a room height of six metres and huge panoramic windows to the south. This area is characterised by natural light, fresh colours and the connection of interior and exterior. In contrast to this, the lobby, the library tower and the

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bar have been designed in such a way that dark, warm tones and precious materials create an inviting, rather introverted atmosphere to sink into.

In the façades of the towers the new, the old and newly interpreted come together in an exemplary way with the familiar stained glass flower windows which were removed, cleaned and re-set in the stone clad tower, juxtaposed to protruding contemporary window reveals in dark aluminium.

Similarly, the interior design combines existing pieces of furniture and artwork with a whole new fit- out that is rich in texture and detail, completed with bold wallpapers and traditional tiles.

Speaking at the re-opening of the hotel, Managing Director of Killarney Hotels Ltd Michael Brennan said, “After an 18-month refurbishment and renovation we are delighted to be re-opening The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens. The Liebherr family has over the past 60 years continually re-invested in their hotels and the completion of this latest renovation project demonstrates once again their commitment to Killarney and the surrounding area. We look forward to showcasing the magnificent work that has been done here at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, which has enhanced the facilities we offer our guests and has increased employment within the hotel sector. The hotel has a rich history but in all its many years has never looked as good as it does now”.

The gardens at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens are celebrated in all aspects of the renovation and can be enjoyed both outside and from within the property. Guests can traverse the world in an hour in the gardens of the hotel. The voyage starts with Chilean fir trees and leads on to Australian gums, South African lilies, New Zealand cabbage trees, New Zealand cherries, Japanese maples, North American dogwoods, South American fuchsias and back to its roots with a Killarney strawberry tree. While the newly developed herb garden, delivers fresh seasonal herbs for the hotel’s chefs.

“The new planting has been designed to complement the existing garden,” explains head Gardener Dave Barry. “An example would be the new roundabout that has been planted with large pine trees. These are similar to the pine trees that were planted in the 1920’s and tower over the entrance of the gardens. On the south side guests are overlooking a 300-year-old mature oak tree with the stunning view of the Gap of Dunloe in the background.”

Jason Clifford General Manager said, “After an exciting and extensive 18 month renovation of The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens we have taken the history of The Dunloe and given it new life with modern design by Monoplan. The Design compliments the soul nourishing sights and sounds of the local surroundings and one can truly appreciate the Gap of Dunloe from our new Grill Restaurant. Not only is the hotel a remarkable place but the team that keeps the hotel running is just as remarkable. Our team is full of passion and cares so much for each and every guest we welcome to the property.

We provide the highest quality of service while allowing our guests to feel like they never left the comfort of their own home. We take great pride in The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens and we believe it shows when you look at each and every team member and guest. The unique character of this stunning property coupled with a dedication to providing unrivalled service and luxury, continues to make The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens an unforgettable 5 star experience.

The gardens surrounding the shell of MacThomas' medieval keep have a dramatic setting looking towards the mountains girdled by the Ring of Kerry. Camellias, magnolias, roses and rhododendrons, handpicked by renowned plantsman Sir Roy Lancaster, now flourish in the sheltered grounds together with rare specimens such as the aromatic-leaved 'Headache' tree. In the paddocks to the front of the hotel, descendants of Hafflinger ponies brought over by Dr Hans Liebherr a half century ago still graze in the lush paddocks and will continue to bring joy to guests of all ages.

Speaking about the re-opening of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, Kerry TD Brendan Griffin, Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport, said, "This is very positive news for Kerry tourism. The Europe, The Dunloe and Ard na Sidhe hotels are some of the top hotels in Kerry and this investment builds on a strong tradition of hospitality by this hotel group. I wish the management and their teams the best of luck with the reopening and assure everyone involved that the government is fully committed to working with them to achieve the best possible future for the tourism industry."

2018 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the story of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens. A chapter that is a fitting foundation for the next half century.

For more information visit: www.thedunloe.com

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22 | Connect Kerry | May 2018

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Connect | Lifestyle

Hi All, It always comes as a shock to me how fast the months are speeding by maybe it as we get older they seem to pick up speed but whatever it is here we are in May (best month by far my birthday month!).

The month of May is always associated with First Communions and as a rule they seem to be more stylish than the confirmations, what is becoming very popular this spring/ summer season is the jumpsuits/cat suits and they can be dressed up with either a similar coloured belt, shoe and bag or contrasting colour, I tend to steer clear of this type outfit as I feel I am too short for them.

We also find this season that people are getting braver with their choice of jewellery, the outfits are more structured and they can well carry the bolder pieces.

This time of year the variety of colours and variety of styles in outfits coming in are a joy and what is even more satisfying is that most of the outfits have been purchased in Kerry, so that is great for all in Business let's keep it in our beautiful county.

I must sign off now as I prepare for my huge birthday celebrations will it be Paris, New York, London ....

I will be where I am happiest 32 The Mall!

Until next time Keep smiling

Carmel xx

24 | Connect Kerry | May 2018

HAIR EXTENSIONS are bigger then ever in the hair industry to date, hair extensions can make one feel confident and glamorous with in just a few hours.

At brush n blush we provide clients with two different ranges of hair extensions Platinum and Great Lenghts.

Once applied, and maintained well by the client Both brands of hair extensions will last from 3-6 months.

It is very important to take the time to do a consultation with each client, both for the hairdresser to know about the clients hair history and analysis of the hair for the correct amount of hair that will be used and the colour match, and to know also is the clients looking for length or thickness and equally important for the client so she is aware and comfortable with the process and will be happy with the end result.

It’s also important for the client to be aware that in order for a correct coloring match to be done her hair she would have to be happy with her own hair colour before an exact color match would be done.

Maintenance is quite easy once brushed daily, bonds are dried properly and the right products are used and tied into a loose ponyTail before bed the hair will stay in good condition.

Myself and Maureen both trained with Great lenghts and plantinum.

And both agree they are two fantastic brands with great results.

With long, full and volume hair all in and in high demand I can predict hair extensions will be around for a long time to come.

Hair extensions are bigger then ever in the hair industry to date, hair extensions can make one feel confident and glamorous with in just a few hours.

At brush n blush we provide clients with two different ranges of hair extensions Platinum and Great Lenghts.

Once applied, and maintained well by the client Both brands of hair extensions will last from 3-6 months.

It is very important to take the time to do a consultation with each client, both for the hairdresser to know about the clients hair history and analysis of the hair for the correct amount of hair that will be used and the colour match, and to know also is the clients looking for length or thickness and equally important for the client so she is aware and comfortable with the process and will be happy with the end result.

It’s also important for the client to be aware that in order for a correct coloring match to be done her hair she would have to be happy with her own hair colour before an exact color match would be done.

Maintenance is quite easy once brushed daily, bonds are dried properly and the right products are used and tied into a loose ponyTail before bed the hair will stay in good condition.

Myself and Maureen both trained with Great lenghts and plantinum.

And both agree they are two fantastic brands with great results.

With long, full and volume hair all in and in high demand I can predict hair extensions will be around for a long time to come.

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Connect | Lifestyle

Catherine’s Fashion Fix

By Catherine Keane

Here comes the sun…... With the summer season upon 3. Sporty Spice us nothing jolts you to your senses like that first day of warm weather. The start of the summer season can come as a mixed blessing. On the one hand we are breathing a sigh of relief that we can finally shed our winter layers. But then it dawns on us that the bikini season will be here soon and we are still in hibernation mode. We find ourselves wondering why did we abandon that well-meaning New Year's resolution to eat more sensibly and why have we not exactly been getting value for money from our gym memberships?

We all want to don those on-trend bikinis and swimsuits in the summer and we want to wear them with confidence because when we look and feel our best, it shows. Often when it comes to swimwear we focus on fixing or hiding something about ourselves. That all ends now. Everyone can look great in swimwear – just pick the right style for you.

Whether you an upcoming holiday planned or just looking for some pieces to update your beach attire, get ahead of the game and don’t wait until the weather starts heating up to start looking for the perfect beach wear. Start now while all the best pieces are available and sizes are still in stock. This season there is an abundance of styles out there to suit and flatter all figures.

Whether you’re into chic cut outs, ruffles, pastels or pretty patterns, you’re guaranteed to find one you love. Designers are taking some serious inspiration from the 70s, 80s and 90s this year and producing stunning swimwear that gives us all the retro feels. So whether you’re daydreaming about summer afternoons, or preparing to escape to the tropics, here are the swimwear trends to watch this year.

1. Belt It

Forget about the sunnies, the hottest way to accessorize your swimwear this year is through belts. Belted swimsuits are gaining momentum quicker than any River island €43 other 2018 trend. These swimsuits are incredibly flattering, creating a gorgeous eye-catching silhouette in all the right places. Add a belted swimsuit to your swimwear collection and embrace your inner beach goddess.

2. Ruffled Shoulders Dunnes €14

Ruffled swimwear is here to stay but unlike last year’s popular off-theshoulder options, 2018’s swimwear feature the feminine frills along the shoulder strap. Look for options in soft hues for a sweet, romantic feel.

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If you are looking for swimwear that handles more than just lounging in the sun you are in luck.

Multiple swim designers have made sporty pieces that are as fashionable as they are functional.

Now you can get in a seaside sweat without ever worrying about falling out of your suit again.

4. One-Pieces

Make waves this summer in a striking all-in-one swimsuit.

One pieces have been popular for a while now but 2018’s styles are definitely not your mother’s one-piece. We’re talking high-cut red Baywatch suits, but skimpier.

The classic one-piece has been given a fashion update with cut outs, embellishments and plunging necklines. Not only do they ooze poolside glamour but there are so many cuts and styles out to flatter every figure

Dunnes €14

Debenhams €52

5. Front-Tie

Front ties of all sorts are making a big splash. Elevate your swimwear drawer with options that feature the front-tie trend. The simple knot or bow at the front adds a sleek and unexpected twist to even the simplest of swimwear.

6. Bold Neons

Warehouse €45

Make a statement at the beach with neon swimwear. Colorblocked, graphic patterns and pops of leopard will be sure to make you stand out among the more common, muted swimwear palettes around you.

Remember the best swimwear for you is the one you feel the best in!

Catherine x

Penneys €10

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Connect | Lifestyle

CONNECT KERRY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

AWARDS 18

Conn e ct Ke rry

Women in Business Awards Finalists 2018 Now in its 4th year we are delighted to welcome business women from all over the county with family and friends to recognise what they do every day. Tickets to this Gala Black tie event on Friday May 25th at Ballyroe Heights Hotel are now available at â‚Ź75.00 from Connect Publications call Mags on 0862408237 for more details.

Health and Wellness

Brid O Mathuna - The GUT hq Catherine wall - Slimming World, Milltown Elaine Burke - Be Pro Therapy Killarney Joanne Courtney Scanlon - Cross Fit 365 Susan Forde - Slanu Stroke Alexandra Rowan - Muscle Therapy at the Scotia Clinic Trisha Moloney - Energy Therapist Susan Crean - Mc Domhnaill Dental Aleksandra Brudzinska - Holistic Therapist Mags O Halloran - O Halloran counselling Services

Tourism Michaela Edwards - Wild water adventures Mary Ferriter - Dingle Distillery Ann Ellard - Tralee Walks Maire Teresa O Sheas - Dingle Oceanworld Eleanor Wall - Sandy feet Farm

Marketing and Events

Celene Moloney - Marketing and Events Specialist Tracey Healy - Corcorans Furniture Ceara Scanlon - INEC Killarney Norma O Donoghue - Amron Displays Michele King - Marketing Manager Rose Hotel Caitrin Griffin - Mcelligotts Honda Centre Tralee Colette O Connor - Marketing and Events Specialist Suzanne Ennis - Cara Credit Union Tralee

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Business Services and Technology Aishling Carmody - Creative Practice Mary Raele - Sli Nua Careers Joanne Riordan - Irish moneypenny Jessica Dennison - Dennison Design Miriam O Sullivan - My Access Hub Elin Sorenson - GHQ Sinead Deutrom - Kerry Biofuels Caroline Birch - Wild Adventure Way Alex Murphy - South Kerry Driving

Education and Childcare

Maria McGrath - Benin Casa Montessori Lisa Curran - Tralee Vocal Acadamy Elaine Sparling - Humming Bird Learning Clarissa Micheaux - Academy of Dance Tara O Halloran - Kerry ETB Lix Scatterwood - Yoga Julia Galvin - The Brickxx Club Listowel Debbie Driscoll - Kerry Dance and fitness Bernadette Stephany - Stepping Stones Childcare Marta Nowak - Oakview Childcare

Lifestyle |Connect

Retail or Consumer Business

Mary Ferriter - Dingle Distillery Gillian Morris - h2 group Susan Costello - Costello Pharmacy Anne Kenny - John Ross Jewellers Betty McGrath - Listowel Florist Eleanor Groves - Eleanor's flowers Grainne Kavanagh - The Coach House Dingle Bernadette Barrett - Leanas gift Box Emma Landers - Landers Outdoors Ita O Brien - Acme Blinds

Creative Design

Delphine Grandjouan - House of Delphine Eleanor Groves - Eleanor's Florist Mary Buckley - I Am Designs Betty McGrath - Listowel Florist Natalie Moriarty - All you need is love Carol Cronin - Artist Marian Madden - Ethan and CO Designs Alice Dennehy - Skellig Soaps Shirley Clifford - Milliner

Food Production

Denise Hanbidge - Dees Delightful Cakes Sherly Thornton - Moms Porter Cake Eileen Ashe - Annasucal Black Pudding Sam Harrison - Cloudberry Bakery Magdalena Kopec - Dingle Sushi Maja Beaujouan - The little cheese shop Doireann Barrett - The Gluten Free Kitchen Company

Fashion Retail

Mary McBride - Mc Bees Killarney Karen Healy - Scarlett Boutique Killarney Elaine Sheehy - La Boehme Dingle Gretta and Joan - Minx/ Wild Pair Fashions Jennifer Stack - Co co Boutique Listowel Rebecca O Sullivan - Simplicity Kenmare Deirdre Garvey - Siopashoo, Caherciveen Siobhan Stack - Ulluv

Hospitality

Alanna Kelliher - Fertha Bar, Caherciveen Jackie O Connor - Rumours Bistro Joanne Riordan - The Thatch, Lisselton Karen Sooffe - Mozart's Tapas Mary McCarthy - McCarthy's Bar Finuge Lucille Hunt - The Smugglers Inn Paula and Louise Huggard - The Butler Arms Rachel Templeman - Roundy's Bar Lorna O Shea - Eabha Jones Bridie O Neill - O Neills Seafood bar the Point, Caherciveen Anne O Carroll - The Bookshelf Coffee House, Tralee

Outstanding Manager

Carly Donovan - Blue bird Care Gina Groves - Nadur Spa Eileen Whelan - Paco Maire Ni Shea - Dingle Oceanworld Bernadette Stepheney - Stepping Stones Childcare Ann Marie O Hara - Dunnes, North Circular Road Tralee

Community Champion

Marian Barnes - Recovery Haven Vera O Leary - Kerry Rape Crisis Eileen Whelan - Chairty Fundraiser Madeline Doyle - Down Syndrome Kerry Mary Bonner - Tralee Rowing Club Katie O Callaghan - Listowel Champion Lisa Curran - Charity for Autism Elma Walshe - Donal Walshe Live Life

Young Business Woman

Melanie Kelly - Holistic Therapist Sarah Meaney - New Beginnings Maeve Ferris - Ebb and Flow Yoga Maureen McCarthy - Brush n Blush Caroline Birch - Wild Adventure Way Rachel Templeman - Roundy's

New Business Award Amy Smith - Tralee Pottery Club Geraldine Kelly - Very Vintage Occasions Kim Elliott - Rocket Deliveries Bernadette Barrett - Leanas Gift Box Carly Norris - Flying Fit Siobhan Stack - Ulluv Eleanor Wall - Sandy Feet Farm Marian Madden - Ethan and Co Designs CONFIRMED FINALISTS AT TIME OF PRINT, MORE TO FOLLOW

Connect Kerry | May 2018 | 31

Connect | Lifestyle

PEARLY WHITES AN DR MARCAS MAC DOMHNAILL

Comfortable Anaesthesia for Nervous Patients Beatha agus sláinte chugaibh.

We all know people who are afraid of attending their dentist for treatment. This fear can be caused by a number of factors, but it is mainly due to a fear of pain. Comfortable Dentistry can now be provided with the advent of a computer assisted anaesthesia system – often called “The Wand.” No magic involved here, as it is a market leader in injection technology. It is significantly more comfortable than a syringe injection and can eliminate collateral numbness, as it only numbs the tooth being treated. This technology allows patients to leave the practice after dental treatment without having a numb face. As this anaesthesia method is more comfortable than the traditional syringe injection, it greatly reduces the anxiety of the patient. It is especially useful when numbing children, so as to avoid pain and any fear of future treatment. The comfort of this type of anaesthesia allows patients to accept dental treatments more readily. It can be used with or without sedation for extremely nervous patients. Topical anaesthetic creams or sprays can be put onto the gums prior to numbing up the area. This also increases the comfort of the anaesthesia process.

Beir bua.

Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill.

BDS (NUI), DIP Cons Sed (TCD) Mac Domhnaill Dental, Denny Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry

Daylight After the Spring Equinox (March 21st), the days really do feel longer. That’s because they are, of course. The equinox marks the time of year when the length of day and night is the same. After the March one, the days do become longer than the nights and we feel as if we’re heading into Summer at last.

I recently wrote about the importance of movement and exercise to both physical and emotional health. Another big contributor to that health is light, and being outdoors. Absence of light in the Winter months is actually a factor in certain depressive states, and there’s even a name for it: Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as SAD. In northern countries where daylight is in extra short supply, it is quite common for people to use SAD lamps, or artificial light that mimics the composition of sunlight, throughout the Winter, but there’s no proper substitute for the real thing.

Exposure to natural light is associated with an increase in the body of serotonin, the hormone sometimes called the happy hormone because it triggers feelings of well-being. That’s not the same thing as exposure to direct sunlight, of course, and it’s very important to take steps to protect your skin from burning, but being outdoors in daylight has huge advantages for your emotional state.

Getting out, being active in daylight, even if it’s cloudy or overcast, still brings enormous benefits. The Winter can feel very long. It’s really worth taking full advantage of these longer days.

It will stand us in good stead when the days get shorter again.

Caroline Smith, Psychotherapy Counselling www.carolinesmith.ie | 087 6444837 32 | Connect Kerry | May 2018

Music in the Kingdom

By: Lisa Curran

May is a very busy time for all music students (and teachers) exams are quickly approaching and anxiety is slowly building. DO NOT PANIC! You have put hours upon hours into your craft and exams are there to show how you are doing and especially how you do under a little bit of pressure, exam results are there to guide you in how you can improve your craft, and any competitions and performances are there to get peoples individual opinions (just one or two people are NOT a majority) on your craft, do not take any criticism to heart, take them on board and carry on with a new insight and confidence and most of all, enjoy what you have achieved with all your hard work.

TRAD FESTIVALS ACROSS THE COUNTY IN MAY 4th-6th - Mountain roots Music festival, Cahersiveen 4th-6th - Portmagee annual set dancing and music weekend 11th-13th - Sweets of May Trad music & set dancing weekend, Tralee 19th - World fiddle day, Scartaglen and Castleisland.

INEC KILLARNEY Gary Barlow - Saturday, May 12th Show 8pm Tickets: €45.00 | €59.50 | €79.50 Gary is one of Britain’s most successful songwriters, having written 14 Number One singles as well as being a six-time recipient of an Ivor Novello Award.

Aside from his achievements with Take That, he has also cowritten and produced music for other renowned artists including Dame Shirley Bassey, Sir Elton John and Robbie Williams.

Cathal Flaherty – EP Launch - May 25th INEC Acoustic Club.Show 8.45pm Tickets: €14.35 After the success of his debut single 'A Thousand Miles', Killarney Singer/Songwriter is about to release his highly anticipated EP May 25th. He's already enjoyed national success on SIAMSA TIRE TRALEE Fadó Fadó, Life in Ireland in Times Past The National Folk Theatre of Ireland. 8th-12th, 14th-19th, 21st-26th MAY, 8.30 PM. TICKETS €27.50 Through lively singing, music, and dancing, Fadó Fadó celebrates the joys and sorrows of a rural family in Ireland long ago.Moving from the open air of the bog fields and harvest festivals to the warmth of the hearth-lit kitchen, this wonderful production shows how in times past, almost every farmyard activity had a tune to it.

Festival season is also quickly gaining momentum towards us all, the big festivals such as Electric picnic are fantastic but for us here in the kingdom it can be a bit of a trek, there are so many festivals close by with just as many amazing acts and fantastic atmosphere. Coming up in July is the Townlands Carnival in Macroom, it is family friendly and unbelievably affordable and only and only up the road if you didn’t want to stay overnight! There are lots of activities and stalls and some fabulous acts. Definitely one to check out for a gang of friends or family weekend away.

Best of luck to all doing end of year performances and exams and of course congrats to all who completed them already and afterwards enjoy the sunshine while we have it, hopefully it will last.

Lisa x

SNAPCHAT: lizzieraisin

TWITTER: lizzieraisin

INSTGRAM: lizzieraisin

FACEBOOK: Lisa Curran Soprano

Adv e rtising |Conne ct

Connect Kerry | May 2018 | 33

Connect | Lifestyle

FISH COOKING with Mark Doe Fish is the ultimate fresh and fast food, and here in Ireland we are blessed to have beautiful fresh fish right on our door step.

As a nation we don’t eat enough of it though.

Plus people sometimes fear cooking fish, and this often results in it being over cooked.

Cooking fish is alot easier than people make out and the key is not to overcook it and ensure the fish is well seasoned.

Buy yourself a good Teflon coated pan and keep it just for cooking fish and this means the fish will never stick. It also eliminates having to coat the fish in flour before cooking and means you need less oil for cooking.

Some fish have a very delicate flavour that can often be masked with thick and heavy sauces, I like to serve fish with salsas or dressings.

So purchase the freshest fish you can, buy a decent pan and start cooking the beautiful array of fish we have in Ireland

Pan-fried cod fillet with caponata Serves 4 4 portions of cod fillet approx 180g each, bones removed, skin on 3 Peppers (yellow/green/red) de-seeded and small dice 1 Courgette, small dice 1 Small onion, peeled & small diced 2 Celery sticks, peeled & small diced 50g pitted black or green olives cut in ½ 10g small capers `½ packet cherry tomatoes, cut in to ¼’s 50 mls olive oil 2 Teaspoons White wine vinegar 1 Teaspoon of caster sugar 2 Teaspoons of chopped fresh parsley Extra virgin olive oil of pesto to serve 1. Heat some olive oil in a fry pan and add the onion, celery, peppers, courgette, & capers.

2. Sweat down for 5 minutes until the vegetables are just cooked.

3. Add the vinegar and sugar and cook for a further 2 minutes. The vegetables should be just cooked.

4. Add the tomatoes , chopped parsley, black olives and season with salt & pepper. Remove from the heat.

5. Heat a little olive oil in a good non stick or Teflon coated pan.

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6. Season the cod fillets with salt & pepper.

7. Place the cod the pan skin side down and cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown.

8. Turn the fillets over and cook for a further 3-4 minutes.

9. Serve the caponata (reheat if necessary) in the centre of a warm serving plate.

10. Top with the cod and drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Steamed mussels in a garlic, white wine and herb cream Serves 6 Great served as a starter or main course.

1 Large onion, or 5 shallots finely chopped 4 Cloves of garlic, peeled and finely chopped 1.5 kg Mussels, washed, scrubbed & beards removed ½ a large glass of white wine 150 ml of cream 4 tablespoons of chopped herbs (parsley, chives, dill etc.)

Olive oil 1. In a little olive oil slowly sweat the onion & garlic.

2. Turn out of the pan and place aside.

3. Wipe out the pan, add a little olive oil and heat.

4. Add the mussels and cover with a lid and allow to cook for 3 minutes.

5. Remove the lid and add the white wine.

Boil for a further 1 minute.

6. Add the cream and cooked garlic and onion. Bring to the boil, season with salt & pepper add the herbs and serve.

Tandori Mackerel Serves 4 4 fresh mackerel fillets 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1tsp freshly grated ginger ½ spgaram masala 1tsp ground coriander ½tsp cracked black pepper ½tsp ground cumin ¼tspchilli powder Squeeze of lemon juice

For the beetroot dressing 2 cooked beetroot, cut into small dice ½apple, cut into dice 3tbsp natural yoghurt 1tsp horseradish sauce 1tbsp fresh mint, chopped

1. For the marinade, place the garlic and ginger in a pestle and mortar and bash until pureed. Fry the dried spices over a low heat until you can small the wonderful aromas. Pace the spices into the pestle with the lemon juice and mix well. Brush the marinade all over the fillets of mackerel and leave to infuse for 30 minutes. For the dressing place all the ingredients into a small bowl and mix well, season with a little salt.

2. To cook the fish pre-heat your grill. Place a piece of non-stick parchment paper on a tray, place the fish on and cook under the hot grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, brushing any leftover marinade on the fish. Simply serve with the beetroot dressing.

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Connect | Lifestyle

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAT

By Eileen Lane Fat has received so much bad press over the years that individuals are most likely to avoid it altogether, whether it be of the good or bad variety. And with marketing giants promoting ‘low-fat’ at every possible opportunity, is it any wonder that we as consumers are forced to believe that all fat is bad! The reality is that the body needs fat to function. However, it is the type of fat one eats which is important.

Fat plays many vital roles in each cell of the body. Fatty acids protect cells against the invasion of microorganisms or damage by chemicals.

Fats are important to the nervous system and are involved in the manufacture of some hormones.

Fats are a source of energy to the body.

Stored fat gives the body its curves and can be used as a fuel source in times of reduced food intake.

Fats in the body also act as a protective blanket, protecting the organs from trauma and cold. Fat deposits hold in place some important organs such the heart and kidneys. Fat below the skin aids in preventing loss of heat and protects against external temperature changes.

Every cell in the body depends on fats in the body for its health. Fats are needed to absorb Vitamins A, D, E and K and by assisting in the absorption of Vitamin D,

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they help the body to absorb calcium especially in the bones and teeth.

It is the quality of the fat we eat which is very important as not all fats are the same. It is recommended to limit saturated fat found in full fat milk products and fatty meats. Trans fats (also known as hydrogenated fats) are found in processed foods and should be limited. Higher quality fats include polyunsaturated fats found in olive oil and most nuts and seeds. These foods are also high in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) also known as Omega 3 and Omega 6. EFAs are essential for health, in particular Omega 3. Quality sources of Omega 3 include walnuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and oily fish.

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Connect Kerry | May 2018 | 37

Connect | Business

FIXED TERM CONTRACTS As we approach the Summer Season, many companies are looking at additional staff to cover this busy period. Staff hired for the Summer only are often employed under a Fixed Term Contract of Employment.

It’s important to note that Under the Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003, employees on a Fixed Term contract must be treated in the same manner as permanent staff members.

A Fixed Term employee is someone who is employed under a contract which contains a specific start and end date or who is employed to carry out a specific task or project.

A Fixed Term contract can therefore be offered to cover for an employee who is out on Maternity Leave, Long Term Sick Leave or any other period of absence from work or can be offered to cover specific busy periods for the business, e.g. summer, Christmas, etc. where there is a clear deadline.

A Fixed Term contract should state the end date of the employment.

Prior to this date the employer must meet with the employee and confirm that the Fixed Term contract is coming to an end. This meeting should be done taking into account the minimum notice required to be given to the employee. The employer must furnish the employee with a written statement that the Fixed Term contract is coming to an end and will not be renewed. This letter must be given before the finish date and employers must furnish the employee with the relevant notice in line with the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973 – 2005 as outlined below.

If a Company does not meet with the employee and inform them of the Fixed Term contract coming to an end and put this in writing prior to the expiry of the Fixed Term contract then this automatically becomes a contract of indefinite duration.

This means that this employee is now employed permanently in the Company based on the terms and conditions of employment outlined in the expired Fixed Term contract.

Many Companies believe that a Fixed Term contract provides more protection for the Company than implementing a probation period. However this is incorrect. A Fixed Term contract should end for the reason it commenced and not for any reason relating to their performance. If an employee is performing poorly the Company should invoke the probation process at the outset of the poor performance.

A Fixed Term contract is legally binding therefore if a contract finishes for any other reason than that the contract was issued then this is an unfair termination which may lead to a case of unfair dismissal.

If you require further information or advice, please do not hesitate to contact one of our HR Consultants on 066-7102887.

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Inheritance & Gift Tax Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT) is more commonly known as inheritance tax and applies to both inheritances and gifts.

The current lifetime tax free thresholds are: Group A (Parents) €310,000 Group B (Relatives) € 32,500 Group C (Other) € 16,250 TAX RELIEFS Dwelling Home Exemption: Inheritance of a dwelling house by children, who do not own a property can be exemption from tax.

This option no longer applies to gifts.

Agricultural Relief Provides for 90% relief on transfer of agricultural property. Restrictions have been placed on the relief in the last few years, so it is necessary to ensure all conditions met to claim relief.

Business Relief Similar to agricultural relief in that 90% relief applies to Business Assets. Farm businesses may qualify for Business Relief even if Agricultural Relief does not apply.

John’s Advice: - Making a will is important - Potential tax liabilities can be substantial, so get proper tax advice prior to finalising your will - Certain assets transfers will be liable to both Capital Gains Tax, as well as Gift Tax. - Business Relief may apply where Agricultural Relief does not.

- Avail of Annual Gift Exemption €3,000 - Claw back of reliefs can occur.

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