Saint Patrick's Day 2023

  Approx. 30 members of the Ballinasloe Active Retirement Assoc. once again
took their place amongst the marchers in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. We had
no particular theme but everyone looked splendid all togged in our national
colours. The weather was very kind to us this year as the rain came down in
other parts of the country
This year, the parade was bigger and better than ever. Every organization,
sports clubs and schools in the town were represented. It was nice to see the
different nationalities, dressed in their national dress, taking part in the fun.
The local band and the new Slua Drummers were a great addition to the
atmosphere and enjoyed by one and all.
The fine day helped to bring out the largest number of spectators ever to
watch the parade. We heard to lot of “hello Granny ‘s” as we passed by and
then realized it could be any of all the grannies in our group they were
cheering on.
We were delighted to be amongst the prizewinners once again. Weary but
happy we adjourned to Gullane’s for a very welcome bowl of hot soup
followed by tea/coffee. Our thanks to Tomas Gullane and staff for always
looking after us so well and providing us with a home from home.

Chris O’Flynn ,March ‘23








 

Social committee and new Chairman Michael Walsh

 



B,A,R,A, A.G.M. FEB. 2023

 Report on the A.G.M 1 st February 2023


There was a large attendance at the A.G.M of the Ballinasloe Active Retirement which was

held in Gullane’s Hotel on 1 st February 2023.

Outgoing Chairperson, Margaret Brennan welcomed everyone especially new members

As Covid ’19 had taken its toll on our group, it was nice to see so many new members in

attendance

We had a most enjoyable function in Gullane’s in March to celebrate our 20 th anniversary.

Anne Duffy, secretary of the Social Committee, reported a very busy and successful 2022.

The trips to Liverpool, Clonakilty and the “Ara-Go-Festival” in Westport proved to be most

enjoyable . The summer Day Trips continue to be very popular. The year ended with the

“Young at Heart” Christmas Dinner in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel. Music by the

“Young”man himself Brendan Shine.

There were good reports from all our various clubs. However, Noelle Rohan said we would

like to see more members return to the walking club/Exercises on the walking track on

Tuesday mornings 10.30 – 12 oc. The knitting /craft group would welcome more members

to join them in Gullane’s Hotel on Monday mornings 10.30 -12 oc.

The hard-working Social Committee have a very exciting list of trips and activities already

planned for 2023. So book early !!!

The following Committee members were then elected –

Chairman : Michael Walsh.

Secretary: Deirdre Hogan

Treasurer: Michael Colohan

P.R.O - Chris O’Flynn

Social Committee members – Martin Colleran (Chairman) Bridie Whelan (Treasurer) Anne

Duffy (Secretary) Maura Rafter, Maureen McIlvenny,

Afterwords, David Dully introduced himself as our newly appointed Community Garda. He

spoke briefly about security and scams. We were pleased to hear he will be our speaker at

the March 1 st monthly meeting in Gullane’s 3 oc. Also, we look forward to welcoming Fire

Officer ,Jamie Ward who will be our speaker at the monthly meeting on April 5 th

The meeting concluded with the usual friendly “cuppa” and chat.

New members are welcome to come along to Gullane’s Hotel any Wednesdays at 3 oc. or

contact Secretary Deirdre Hogan at 086 3824556 or any Committee member. Visit our

website at ballinasloeactiveretirement@gmail.com

Chris O’Flynn (P.R.O) February, 2023

B.A.R.A A.G.M. 2023

 


                                                  Cuppa after meeting   Report to follow