THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS The criticism of Donald Trump by Pope Leo XIV over the US president’s depiction of himself as Jesus and Trump’s dismissal of the American-born pontiff as “not doing a good job” is nothing new. Tensions between the two have been bubbling under since before this latest war …

CHOICES SHAPE YOUR FUTURE By Judith Ashton Recently, sitting alone, in the dentist’s waiting room, I became aware of an inane chat-show on the radio near me. It was annoying to say the least… bubble gum for the brain!  I turned it right down, relaxed and tuned in to my own breathing pattern. Why is …

By John Fitzgerald (Part Two) As a rule, mariners shunned the North Side of the King’s River, despite the attractive potential berth located at the bottom of the steps at the rear of Mickey Kealy’s house. Boatmen also avoided sailing on the side of the river under Kealy’s hay barn. One possible deterrent, according to …

By John Fitzgerald Cleere’s Theatre in Kilkenny will host the long-awaited launch of poet/songwriter Peter Brabazon’s new CD, a collection of twelve numbers guaranteed to pull at the heartstrings. Among the topnotch musicians joining Peter on the night of May 6th will be the widely acclaimed Waterboys fiddler Steve Wickham The carefully chosen songs will showcase some of the …

BY CLAIR WHITTY Headaches are a common health complaint with many different causes. It can be something simple like dehydration and needing to drink extra water. They can be connected to hormonal imbalance, related to food intolerance, stress or lack of sleep. Dips in blood sugar and not eating regularly can be a cause. Certain …

FURTHERMORE By Gerry Moran The pubs of Kilkenny are alive with the sound of music this May Bank Holiday weekend. It’s Roots Festival (one of our most popular festivals) time. Time, folks, for some country and bluegrass, rockabilly, swing and more. And I have to confess that it’s all above me. Or beyond me. Whichever. …