A most enjoyable day. Details to follow
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Terryglass/Glenstall Abbey/ Garrykennedy 6th June 2012 day trip
Day trip to Terryglass/Glenstal Abbey/Garrykennedy – 6th June 2012
As the weather forecast looked gloomy, promising lots of rain, we were delighted to get a nice sunny day for our 1st day trip of the year on 6th June 2012
2 bus loads, (65 people – the biggest crowd ever) set off at 10 am for a tour of the Shannon Region of North Tipperary and Limerick.
Our 1st stop for refreshments was in the “Derg Inn” in scenic Terryglass where the Shannon enters Lough Derg. After a walk-about in the sunshine and the customary photos by the harbour, we reluctantly boarded our buses for the next leg of our journey. With Jimmy Lyons as chief navigator and armed with road maps galore, we travelled on through Nenagh and on to Glenstal Abbey in Co. Limerick. Here, everyone enjoyed a most informative guided tour of the Abbey which is the home of the Benedictine community.
We got a refreshing glimpse into their monastic lifestyle. Most importantly, we got to visit the Icon Chapel which houses a rare collection of Russian and Greek icons. It is a unique and sacred space.
We were now beginning to feel hungry pangs, so we took the scenic route by the shores of Lough Derg to the quaint little village of Garrykennedy which nestles on the shore of Lough Derg. After a gorgeous 4 course meal ,we took an after-dinner stroll to absorb the peace and tranquility of the beautiful harbour and new marina with its many boats.
We finished off the evening with lively musical entertainment. With our own Chairperson, Deirdre Hogan as mistress of ceremonies we were invited, coaxed or persuaded to do our party piece,and so with song and dance we finished off a memorable day and headed home to Ballinasloe tired but happy. Chris O’Flynn
2 bus loads, (65 people – the biggest crowd ever) set off at 10 am for a tour of the Shannon Region of North Tipperary and Limerick.
Our 1st stop for refreshments was in the “Derg Inn” in scenic Terryglass where the Shannon enters Lough Derg. After a walk-about in the sunshine and the customary photos by the harbour, we reluctantly boarded our buses for the next leg of our journey. With Jimmy Lyons as chief navigator and armed with road maps galore, we travelled on through Nenagh and on to Glenstal Abbey in Co. Limerick. Here, everyone enjoyed a most informative guided tour of the Abbey which is the home of the Benedictine community.
We got a refreshing glimpse into their monastic lifestyle. Most importantly, we got to visit the Icon Chapel which houses a rare collection of Russian and Greek icons. It is a unique and sacred space.
We were now beginning to feel hungry pangs, so we took the scenic route by the shores of Lough Derg to the quaint little village of Garrykennedy which nestles on the shore of Lough Derg. After a gorgeous 4 course meal ,we took an after-dinner stroll to absorb the peace and tranquility of the beautiful harbour and new marina with its many boats.
We finished off the evening with lively musical entertainment. With our own Chairperson, Deirdre Hogan as mistress of ceremonies we were invited, coaxed or persuaded to do our party piece,and so with song and dance we finished off a memorable day and headed home to Ballinasloe tired but happy. Chris O’Flynn
Concert 2012
B.A.R.A. Singers Unite Western Region of Active Retirement
With a large region and several small groups in a diverse areas, some ideas were sought to get the 79 local groups to join together for social activities, outings etc.
With this in mind Marie Power of the Ballinasloe Active Retirement Singers ( B.A,R.A. Singers ) came up with the idea of a regional choir to perform as part of the Bealtaine Festival.
After introducing the idea she got names from those interested from the different A.R.A,s in the region
A list of songs and tapes was sent out so that each group or individual could rehearse the programme.
A full rehearsal was held on the morning of the show, and on Sunday 20th May at 3;30 the choir performed in front of a large audience in the Town Hall Theatre. Ballinasloe. Photos powerpix media . ( www.powerpix.ie )
With a large region and several small groups in a diverse areas, some ideas were sought to get the 79 local groups to join together for social activities, outings etc.
With this in mind Marie Power of the Ballinasloe Active Retirement Singers ( B.A,R.A. Singers ) came up with the idea of a regional choir to perform as part of the Bealtaine Festival.
After introducing the idea she got names from those interested from the different A.R.A,s in the region
A list of songs and tapes was sent out so that each group or individual could rehearse the programme.
A full rehearsal was held on the morning of the show, and on Sunday 20th May at 3;30 the choir performed in front of a large audience in the Town Hall Theatre. Ballinasloe. Photos powerpix media . ( www.powerpix.ie )
The Mayors Awards 2012
Nominees
Bridie Whelan who was nominated for her work and dedication as treasurer of the Social Committee
Chairperson Deirdre Maddenhogan and Gabriel Rohan representing B.A.R.A. in the Social & Community support category.
The Story of Count John McCormack
The Story of Count John McCormack
We had a wonderful night’s entertainment on Thursday last, May 3rd, at the Town Hall Theatre, Galway. We were entertained to a musical life story of the legendary Irish tenor Count John McCormack. The narration was by Kevin Hough, the well known radio and T.V. presenter.
Waterford tenor Frank Ryan starred as John McCormack and Cork soprano Linda Kenny as his wife Lily. Daniel Lehane was violinist and pianist was Michael Casey. The show was directed by Cathal McCabe, former RTE Head of Music. John McCormack’s signature tune “I hear you calling me” and other famous songs of his such as “Macushla”, “Because”, “Roses of Picardy” and many more were performed wonderfully.
It was a magical night of musical entertainment and enjoyed thoroughly by one and all.
Bridie Loughman
Susan Boyle 28/4/2012
Dreamed a Dream: The Susan Boyle Story
On Saturday last a group of our BARA went to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin to see the musical “The Susan Boyle Story”. It was absolutely wonderful.
It has a brillant cast and the sound, props and lighting were superb. The whole life story of Susan is portrayed beautifully throughout the musical. Susan’s character is played by Elaine Smith. The singing and dancing is unbelievable.
At the end of the show, when we thought the show was over, the announcer said “Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Susan Boyle!”. There she was, just as we had seen her on television, wearing a green dress and singing the famous “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables” (and from “Britain's Got Talent!). She received several standing ovations.
This show was enjoyed by one and all.
Bridie Loughman
Kerry April 2012 Ballingarry House
Our Trip to Kerry, April 2012
Our Spring break from 15th – 19th April was to Tralee in the beautiful Co Kerry. We travelled in style – all 58 of us- courtesy of Rose Travel, Tralee. Their drivers, with all their local knowledge ,provided us with many good stories along the way and made our journeys more interesting.
The four nights in the 4*Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa were most enjoyable and relaxing. The Sauna, Steam room and outdoor Hot Tub and all the other facilities helped to spoil and pamper us. A great experience with the rain coming down.!
Our first day trip took us to the scenic Killarney. Unfortunately, the cold and damp weather spoiled our enjoyment of our visit to Muckross House and gardens.
We visited the Moriarty Industry at the foot of the McGillicuddy Reeks where we enjoyed a beautiful DVD of the Flora and Fauna of The Gap and magnificent views of Co. Kerry.
The trip to Slea Head on the Dingle peninsula was breathtaking. The driver’s skill was tested to the limit as he negotiated the many twists and sharp bends on the road.
The Kerry County Museum Audio Visual brought to life the story of Kerry from the earliest times to the present day. It took us back to our roots, reminding us of real poverty borne by our forefathers and letting us see how well off we are today in Ireland.
We were sad to say goodbye to Miriam and all the cheerful and courteous staff of Ballygarry House Hotel. On our way home we enjoyed a delicious meal in the Meadow Court Hotel in Loughrea . It was a nice ending to a most happy and relaxing time.
Our thanks and gratitude to Chris O’Flynn and Bridie Whelan – our Secretary and Treasurer – for the time and organisation they put in to preparing our trip.
Sr. Tony.
Photos of Kerry from bus by Doug.People photos by Christina o'Flynn
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