We hope that everyone had a good Christmas and New Year.
It was a shame that we had to cancel our Christmas social afternoon on 17th December, but in the circumstances and being so close to Christmas, we felt it was the most sensible thing to do.
All being well, there will be a few socials to look forward to in the coming months.
We hope that our January plans do not change, but if there is a need to, it will be broadcast via email, you will note that activities do not start until 10th January.
Although 2021 was restricted to outdoor activities only between May & June, we recommenced indoors at the end of July, and by December things seemed to be almost back to normal.
In that time, we managed trips to Oxford, Runnymede & Saville Gardens, London Southwark walk, Country & Western and Xmas Lunches at the Inn on the Lake, Tinsel & Turkey break in Torquay, as well as our Breakout Party with Nick Bosworth, Social afternoon with Jeff Pedley and our annual Quiz.
Roll on 2022...
The thoughts of Chairman John
A happy and prosperous new year to everyone,
Who would have envisaged that at this time last year, we could be under restrictions once again? We were just getting used to catching up with all normal activities, as has been mentioned in previous Newsletters.
My own personal regret was having to cancel the Friday afternoon Christmas get together, I had dusted down my Santa's little helpers’ uniform, complete with Black Tights and oversized Green Elf Boots (some may remember myself and Peter (the Snowman at a past Christmas do), I'm sure there are some pictures in the archives, watch this space!
We're so lucky to have the Village Hall as our meeting venue (the envy of many other ARA's) we have decided that it would be sensible to donate towards a defibrillator to be installed within the hall itself, outside it could be a target for vandals.
Whatever the outcome in the New Year, you can be sure your committee will be keeping your best interests to the fore.
I'm sure we are all waiting to see if Boris will hold his nerve and not add more restrictions in the new year.
Stay safe in the new year.
John W
History of the Pantomime Dame
Our December speaker, Tony Harris, gave us a very funny talk on the
history of the Pantomime Dame along with anecdotes of his own foray into acting.
Tony will be visiting us again in September 2022, giving us a talk on Secret London.
You will find our complete speakers list for 2022 on our website.
Website
Don’t forget you can visit us on our website www.upara.club to see what is happening, view the calendar if you need to check whether certain activities are on or not and what time.
Can you help us?
You may remember our asking for volunteers to help in running some activities, possibly as part of a group or on a rota - Many hands make light work! If you can help in any way, please let us know.
Subscriptions
Subscriptions are due for renewal at the end of February, if you know that you will not be renewing, please let us know so that we can offer your place to those on the waiting list.
January Calendar
Mondays January 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st 10:00am - Short/Soft Tennis
Monday, January 10th 2:00pm - Kurling
Tuesday, January 11th 9:30am - Coffee MorningPlease note: No Art
Tuesday, January 11th 2:00pm - Table Tennis
Wednesdays January 12th, 19th, 26th 10:15am - Line Dancing
Friday, January 14th 2:00pm - Monthly Meeting
Helen Allinson - Life in a Kent Workhouse
Tuesday, January 18th 1:00pm - Petanque
Friday, January 21st 10:00am - Village Walk
Tuesday, January 25th 9:30am - Coffee Morning
Tuesday, January 25th 9:45am - Art
Tuesday, January 25th 2:00pm - Table Tennis
Please note: There is no 10 Pin Bowling this month
Hopefully, see you all soon - your UpARA Committee.