President's Rock 'n' Roll 1950's Night

What a difference a year makes! Twelve months ago the Rotary Club of Ballycastle were celebrating the ‘Roaring 20s’.

President’s Night 2014, will witness a time-shift of some 30 years as members pay homage to the ‘Fabulous Fifties’

It was a decade that witnessed the establishment of the European Common Market, the invention of the video recorder and the production of a vaccine for polio (a disease, which through Rotary’s efforts is almost eradicated).

From Cadillacs to Chuck Berry, Teddy Boys to Teenage heart-throbs, the 1950’s proved to be a period of unrivalled variety and optimism. This buoyant cultural experience was of course epitomised in the emergence of one Elvis Presley and no Rock’n’Roll night would be complete without an appearance by the Graceland legend!

Intermingled with the end of year celebrations will be several donations to local charities, and the announcement of our Spirit of Moyle winners - Rotary’s way of recognising those who greatly enhance their communities and the lives around them through tireless, voluntary efforts.

Entertainment, 4 course themed meal and reception cost just £30 per person. There will also be some great raffle prizes on offer – including one for best dressed girl and boy! So, this June 20^th, get those quiffs gelled, the petticoats starched and jive on down to the Central Restaurant. The diner opens 7.30 for 8pm. Tickets are available from Gemma McHenry on 07739405543.

Mobsters, Molls, Flappers and Fedoras!

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!

Roaring 20s Summer Ball

This will be one very special night!

 Have fun with the dress code - help us bring a bit of 20's glamour to Ballycastle! Tuxedos not necessary but be dressed to impress! Tickets are limited.