On Friday 21
st
June, The Rotary Club of Ballycastle turned back the clock with a 1920’s themed
President’s Ball. For a few hours the Central Restaurant had the undeniable
feel of a Chicago speakeasy with the ladies looking every inch the stylish,
confident, liberated individuals so typical of the period whilst the men would
have had no trouble passing for Capone’s side-kicks!
However, aside from
the jovial nature of the event, it was an opportunity for President Angela
Bonnar to highlight the continued fund-raising efforts of the Club. Before a
crowd of visiting Rotarians, friends and family, cheques were presented to NSPCC,
Meningitis UK, PIPS, Ballycastle Community Rescue Service, Good Morning Ballycastle
and Solas. Two weeks prior to this a significant amount was handed over to the
Jole Rider project, capping a very fine effort which saw Ballycastle Rotary
emerge as the leading collector of bikes in the province.
As with last year, the
event provides a platform to reward our spirit of Moyle winners. Thanks to
sponsorship from Solar Power NI. and public nominations, three very worthy
candidates emerged to claim the titles of Young Carer, Young Volunteer and
Community Champion. For Daniel Stewart, Joshua Hutchinson and Catherine Sands
respectively, the awards are justly recognition of all the work they carry out
for the betterment of family and community life. Certificates have now been
distributed to all who were nominated. Thanks to everyone who contributed in
any way.
Proceeds from a very
well supported raffle boasting some wonderful prizes have been ear-marked to
assist the Friends of the Cancer centre in their wonderful work and will be
donated with the family’s wishes in memory of Callan McErlaine.
Best dressed Male
award went to William Cross, Larne President, whilst the title of best dressed
female – and there were many, belonged to his partner Tedi. Larne is obviously
a very fashionable club!
Entertainment for the
evening was provided by Carole-Ann Carlisle, a young lady who seamlessly
transported guests to a time of soulful elegant songstresses whilst DJ Rory
Patterson brought us back to the present with his lively set.
As with all Rotary
gatherings, the whole evening was conducted in a spirit of friendship, fun and
above all the knowledge that once again Ballycastle members were gathered to
rightly celebrate another super year. Thanks to all who supported the event and
to the Central for their wonderfully creative decor and deliciously themed meal
– Al would have been proud!
