Photos by Pat Shortall There was only one place where the book launch could take place. ‘Clear, Hold, Build’ – How the Free State won the Irish Civil War was launched at the Officer’s Mess at James Stephen’s barracks in Kilkenny. Reminders of the foundation and life story of Irish army life bedecked the walls. …

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Social connection is a potent stress buster, and this helps with pain and recovery By Paul Bolger. Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny (www.nanophysio.ie). “Social support is one of the most powerful moderators of stress-related disease ever demonstrated. It is not just a matter of feeling better subjectively — social support makes your body work better”, …

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BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR Inheritance tax also know as Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) is in the papers again. Former Justice Minister Alan Shatter once said: “It is nothing short of State-sanctioned graveside robbery of assets.” Others believe it is not an issue for them, as one client said to me recently, “I have nothing …

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AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON Sure deck your lower limbs in pants, my sweeting, you look divine as you advance but have you seen yourself retreating? Ogden Nash’s lines are a gentle example of the niggles over female clothing in the fashion war waged ever since women escaped corsets and took to sport. …

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The visit of Offaly next up for Noresiders BY NIALL SHERRY, SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE Leinster SHC – Round 4 Kilkenny vs Offaly UPMC Nowlan Park, Saturday, 6pm Referee: Colm McDonald (Antrim) Kilkenny welcome Offaly to UPMC Nowlan Park tomorrow evening, hoping to maintain their perfect start to the defence of their Leinster crown (Throw-in 6pm).  …

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Furthermore By Gerry Moran So, I’m thinking of running for the Presidency. And why not – sure every Tom, Dick and Conor are thinking of running. Wouldn’t be surprised if the Monk runs. After all he did a spot of running during the local elections. And what do you know about politics, Gerry? Not a …

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BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR The European Central Bank (ECB) is developing a ‘digital euro’, a new form of money you could use via your phone or card, much like cash but electronic. The ECB began planning in 2021, started a two-year preparation phase in November 2023, and intends to launch by 2028. It will …

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AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON Some cities now have pedestrian crossing lights showing the LGBTQ+ sign in green for go and in London, I noticed recently, there are ‘go’ transgender signs on crossings. Since the UK’s Supreme Court ruling last month, though, trans women– men who identify as women – will not have …

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Get ready to ignite your imagination! Creative Kilkenny announces Cruinniú na nÓg 2025, a showcase of youthful innovation. Events start on May 18th at the Happy Pottery Studio, leading to a festival of free events across the county on June 7th. Join us for 52 free creative activities, exploring the picturesque landscapes of County Kilkenny. …

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THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS Twenty one years ago this month I was on a flight from Durban to Cape Town. I was on an assignment for the Irish Independent to write an overview on the first 10 years of the rainbow nation, it having thrown off the shackles of apartheid. About …

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