16/04/2023
As the dust settles on a historic night in Ballina’s history, in the year of our 300th celebration I want to thank everyone who has helped make the homecoming visit of President Joe Biden possible.
Firstly, the Blewitt family who helped forge the ties and enabled us to celebrate the connection between the President and Mayo, between Scranton and Ballina.
To The White House team of organisers supported by the U.S. Embassy Dublin, Department of Foreign Affairs and Mayo County Council.
To Bishop John, Father Aidan and the Parish of Kilmoremoy team for hosting the historic occasion in St. Muredach’s Cathedral.
To the Ballina community who rallied together in preparing our town to put its best foot forward, stepping into the limelight of the world for one night.
To the army of volunteers who answered the call from Ballina 2023, Ballina Community Clean Up, Ballina.ie & Ballina Chamber of Commerce, Mayo Civil Defence, Order of Malta Ireland - Ambulance Corps - Ballina to make sure that this night was possible.
To the local municipal district staff of the council who worked around the clock in facilitating, preparing and coordinating multiple interventions across the town.
To the An Garda Síochána team for their professionalism and logistical organisation throughout the day.
To the Ballina public for their patience during a disruptive week, especially motorists and businesses.
A final thank you, to President Joe Biden for choosing his ancestral home of Ballina to make an iconic and historic address to the people of Mayo in front of the Cathedral that his great great great grandfather Edward Blewitt helped build.
We’re remembering our past, celebrating what we have, and looking forward to a better future for all.
Let the year of celebrations continue!
