​Active Retirement Make Up For Lost Time

Detta Power, Gabriel Rohan (25th Anniversary)

The Ballinasloe Active Retirement Group have been very busy of late with many events for all their members to get involved.
The group took part in the St. Patrick’s Day parade to large acclaim from all spectators. Another joyful event for the group was when they celebrated their 20th anniversary recently in Gullane’s. Plenty of faces, old and new, were in attendance on what was a special day of food, fun and music  for all involved.

The occasion was marked by a visit from the national Association President Anne Drury and a special presentation to the local club pioneer and founder Chris O Flynn.

Meanwhile, the A.R.A. held their AGM recently in front of a large attendance. They paid tribute to their members who had passed away since they last met almost two years ago. During the year there was a special Mass to celebrate the lives of the members the group had lost during the pandemic.

The election of Officers then followed:
Chairperson – Margaret Brennan
Assistant Chairperson – Mgt. McDonnell
Secretary – Deirdre Hogan
Treasurer – Michael Colohan
Asst.Treasurer - Anne Duffy

Executive Committee:
Mgt. Brennan
Deirdre Hogan
Michael Colohan
Goretti Fallon
Fr. Benny Flanagan
Anne Duffy
Mgt. McDonnell
Angela Flynn

Social Committee:
Anne Duffy
Anne Murray
Bridie Whelan
Maura RafterAnn Stevens.

P.R.O – Chris O’Flynn
I.T- Douglas Rafter

With plenty of events in the pipeline to keep everyone going including outings, Irish Trips and possibly overseas trips , the A.R.A are looking for new members and for any enquiries on how to join contact Margaret Brennan, (090) 964 2061 or Chris O’Flynn on (087) 649 2466 or visit their website www.ballinasloeactiveretirement.com

Chairperson Margaret Brennan stated: “New members are always welcome. The aim of the A.R.A. is to enhance the lives of older people and eliminate loneliness through friendship, information and communication. Members can avail of a wide range of activities which include, Bowls, Bridge, Book club, Singing Group (under the direction of the wonderful Marie Power) walking group followed by light exercises, and Knitting/Crafts.”

Monthly meetings for all members are held on the first Wednesday of the month in Gullane’s Hotel at 3 pm with informal meetings every other Wednesday in Gullane’s at 3 pm.