Birthday celebrations for Offaly woman & her enormous contribution to local organisation
At the February social and dinner of READY over 40 members and friends celebrated Annie Keeley's ''significant'' birthday.
''Annie, has been the powerhouse behind READY for many years, the woman who has kept our ship afloat, the lady who has relentless energies, brilliant leadership qualities, who is always kind, considerate, generous, and who has worked through all kinds of weathers to ensure that our members enjoy a good night out,'' said secretary of the organisation Phil Newton.
''Annie has collected me from my apartment to attend READY socials on nights you wouldn’t put out a ladder. And may I say that on these nights, our members proved that they are made of strong stuff, for we have always had a full house. Not even a snowfall will keep them in when there is a READY social in town,'' commented Phil.
Annie Keeley joined READY in 1992, and since then has worked relentlessly to make it the vibrant organisation it is today. In acknowledgement of her hard work and enormous contribution, Phil Newton on behalf of READY presented Annie with an Honorary Life Membership. Annie is the second person to receive such an honor, Maura Lowbridge being the first, so as Phil says ''they are well earned.''
Member Seamus Brophy also paid tribute to Annie for all her hard work, and great gifts of kindness over the years to everyone.
Barry LaComber former chairperson complimented Annie on her amazing hard work and dedication to the organisation. We are indeed privileged to have Annie as our chairperson for all of those years. Annie, as well as your amazing work in keeping the READY show on the road you are a magnificent friend to have, always there with empathy and a kind listening ear.
Annie is retiring as chair of READY this year the good news is that former Chairperson Barry La Combre is returning to the fold to joint chair the organisation with Mary McKiernan.
''We have no doubt that READY will be in good hands with these two very experienced people in charge. Wishing Barry and Mary every success in the years to come. Covid of course meant that our fundraisers could not go ahead. Over the months to come we may be organising a fundraiser or two, and we will appreciate all your support in relation to same,'' added Phil Newton.