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Santa arrived in epic style to launch Yulefest
Santa arrived in Kilkenny on Saturday to launch Yulefest 2021 – Christmas in Kilkenny! It was a sight to behold as Santa arrived down the river Nore. Carried safely by the Civil Defence and flanked by two boats full of Dragon Paddlers and a string of canoe and kayakers. Arriving at Canal Square where he was greeted …
Con Downey – An appreciation
Con Downey, a Nonagenerian, passed away on Sunday last 28th November. He was 95 years old. He was the last surviving member of Kilkenny AFC which was formed in 1948 when soccer was reorganised in Kilkenny following World War 2. Con, along with a small group of people such as Jimmy McAlister, Billy Walsh, Johnny …
Kilkenny Street Christmas window blues
In the Build up to Christmas, The Kilkenny Observer newspaper will publish four short stories by Kilkenny authors. Each story will have a Christmas theme, and will, we hope, spark some beautiful memories for our readers. The Observer is delighted to promote the arts in general, and we wish to thank the four writers for …
Pat’s Vegan and sugar free Christmas pudding
Patrick, my brother, was the Christmas pudding maker with our mam when we were young. Back then she made several puddings for her siblings. He helped her every year, he was the only one of us who had any interest in all of the stirring, mixing and wishing. It’s no surprise then that it was …
Real life stories prompts new poetry album for Kilkenny man Ben Mac Caoilte
Beyond the Apple Tree is a first collection of poems from the pen of Ben Mac Caoilte. When the first lockdown rolled into our shocked consciousness in early 2021, Ben had just moved with his young family to rural Co. Wexford. Hiding his Kilkenny jersey beneath layers of coats he took to walking the quiet …
Coping with lockdown, results in new book by Mike Watts
“A problem is a chance for you to do your best.” So said composer Duke Ellington. In these days- indeed years-of Covid, Mr Ellington’s words ring loud and clear. Many people have had to dig deep to come to terms with ordinary everyday challenges as they experience this horrid pandemic. Coping mechanisms vary from person …
When women under-insure their true value
BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR THE results of Royal London’s five-year analysis of the life insurance market is in. The period covered was 2016 to 2020. The primary finding shows some continuing worrying trends in the insurance marketplace. According to the report, women appear to be underinsured by 64% when it comes to life insurance …
How your own ‘life policy’ can save you
AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON IN the run up to Christmas it’s worth mentioning that the way you treat your health may save not only your life but also save money. Here are two sobering figures: 70% of your medical expenses occur after retirement age. More soberingly still, over 30% of the top …
My grown-up daughter has moved back home
THE FACT OF THE MATTER PAUL HOPKINS My daughter has moved back home. At 39. With her husband and 10-month old daughter Faye. And half a lifetime’s wardrobe that would have left Imelda Marcos looking like the poor relation. The pair recently sold their house in Dublin and have yet to find their ideal ‘family’ …
