BRUREE FOYNES AUG 2013


 On the 7th. Aug. last, a full bus load of our members set off on our last day trip on this year’s Social Calendar. This time, we ventured further afield into the picturesque Co.Limerick

With Jimmy Lyons as chief commanding officer, guide and organiser and after much pouring over maps, routes and timetables, our trip began at 9.30 (sharp)

The detour outside Portumna upset our timetable somewhat but the blue skies and sunshine added to the good mood of the day.

First stop was at Finnegan’s in Limerick for a welcome tea/coffee/scone break. Then we were on way to visit the De Valera Museum and Heritage centre in Bruree. Here, we watched a very interesting film about the life and times of De Valera before going to see the house where he lived. It was a nice way to brush up on our History which we learned in school had mostly forgotten)
It was back on the coach then to continue our travels to Foynes which was the centre of the aviation world 1937 – 45. On arrival, we were served with beautiful home-made soup and brown bread before we began our tour of the Museum with its comprehensive range of exhibitions, airline memorabilia and uniforms from that era. The famous flying boats were frequent visitors to Foynes, carrying a diverse range of people from celebrities to refugees. We watched ,with interest, the award winning film “Atlantic Conquest” which has been compiled from original footage. We excitedly boarded the only Boeing 314 replica in the world. After all this excitement, we were each served an Irish Coffee which was invented in Foynes in 1943. Ann Duffy was a fast learner as she took part in the demonstration on how to make the perfect Irish Coffee. Our visit here was the highlight of our day so reluctantly our tired and hungry gang set out on the last leg of our journey to Oranmore where we enjoyed a magnificent four course meal in the “Coach House” A good time was had by all. Thanks to all who helped to organise this trip ,especially Jimmy Lyons
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foynes
 
 






 
Many thanks to Chris O'Fylnn for her usual comprehensive and entertaining report of the days outing

Knitting Circle 2013

 Our Knitting Circle                                                                                                                          Members of the Ballinasloe Active Retirement Knitting Circle once again excelled themselves in the amount of garments and knitted toys they produced for the much deserving orphanage in Belarus.     It was indeed a great occasion when Pat Dillon and his team came to collect them. Also joining in were some of the children, who were spending holidays here with families in Ballinasloe. It was sad to see the children return to the orphanage but they really enjoyed the few weeks they spent here.  New members are always welcome in the Knitting Circle, which was founded by Margaret McDonnell. We now have over 20 members and meet each Monday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon throughout the year for a most enjoyable 2 hours together.