After last weekend’s torrential weather which left the plants a bit battered but well-watered, the preprarations for the Columbia Community Association Opening Day commenced. And my word, did they commence!
Invitations had gone out to those involved in some way with the refurb, including the classes, who had manoeuvred themselves around the workers with great humour and goodwill. Thank goodness Marion’s wingman, the adorable handsome Richard had made clear he would be present to enjoy the day, because as he says, he has worked so hard for the team to achieve their goals. Marion told me this, and Marion is cheeky as we all know. I can endorse, however, he really does have the most lovely blue eyes – so very there.
Richard and Sister Mary at the Opening celebrations
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So, invitations sorted/replies coming in, but of course it was business as usual in the run up to Opening Day, with Gentle Yoga Years at the start of the week, Warm Spaces were welcomed from 11am till 3pm, followed by private hire for dance practice.
The CCA’s bespoke flag was sorted out and would fly high on Friday and will, of course, be visible on google earth. Shake that Boogie came in for their session and and Armchair Yoga too, which will be increasing to two sessions on a Tuesday. Of course the dancers were in the centre during the week, and will practice during the school holidays because they are so determined to be winners. Of course, the Forever Young Bingo ladies were in, bringing cheer to the centre. Then, with Friday almost upon them, it was time to get into gear for the ribbon cutting, buffet tempting, Opening Day.
The buffet and just a few of the audience, including Marion who seems to be wondering if Margaret was going to go too far (she knows me too well!)
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Outside Red Shoes Bob was busy with the weed killer, convinced someone made it their business to plant fast growing newbies every night to keep him busy. Meanwhile the lovely Sam was busy inside feather duster in hand, Hettie at her heels, making sure everything was spotless. Champagne flutes were washed, furniture moved around, tables laid, there so much to do it seemed, but it would all be worth it.
Marion was worried about wind and rain. Would the balloons take off, or even worse, burst. ‘But we have learned to dance in the rain,’ she explained to Frost Magazine before nipping out to have her nails done, for ‘those hands that do not do dishes,’ she also explained.
Dianne about to launch into her Gypsy RoseLee dance, as the post party clear up began
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Friday dawned. There was hustle and bustle from 8am: deliveries, comings and goings,everyone was so excited. It was happening. The project had begun what seemed years ago, and at last it was complete. No-one could really believe it, especially the two who had managed the project every minute of every day, Marion and Bob.
Linda came to put the bits and bobs out on the tables, Victoria, from Balloons and Beyond sorted the balloon arch, the buffet from the wonderful Di’s Diner arrived Bottles of champers chilled merrily in the fridge, Sarah had agreed to be the meeter and greeter on Champagne duty and little Freddie had the job of handing out the bespoke coasters made to commemorate the occasion. All that was left was to welcome their friends to the community’s beloved centre and to hope the guest of honour, Margaret Graham was not held up in traffic.
Mr Millington, who organised the children’s painting talking to some of those who had moved to the coffee room. One of the people there was a child, who had contributed to the painting, and had a good chat with him. in the second image, Marion is talking to a few of the audience with Margaret hidden behind the wonderful flowers.
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All the time the preparations were underway Marion was thinking of those wonderful people who became involved as the project proceeded. ‘There are so many ‘thanks’ to so many people: strangers became friends, and so too the lads who worked so hard updating the building. The CCA have striven to employ local businesses for flooring, blinds, doors, solar panels, etc. not forgetting Equans who had an amazing input throughout as the chosen contractors appointed by GENTOO. Everyone has gone above and beyond. So many wonderful people, some donating, some supporting, some hiring the rooms, and of course, thanks to Pauline, our treasurer who is leaving to enjoy her retirement and goes with every good wish from us all. The journey has been exhilarating and we have loved every minute.‘ said Marion. ‘Finally, the wonderful people of Brady Square have promised to write down their memories, and any they can remember of their parents’ experiences, of growing up so a record can be kept at the centre for future generations. Some excerpts are hopefully to be published in Frost Magazine, if it seems like a good idea. But that is for later. To conclude, it is only fitting that Margaret Graham, Frost Magazine’s editor has the last word or two or three. So over to her.
Margaret and Marion taking a breather, and then Annie Newsome’s little girl fiddling with the scissors about to cut the ribbon, and milking the moment for all she was worth.
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Crikey, I thought I’d never get a word in edgeways. Margaret Graham here, to say what a wonderful day Friday was. My mum, Annie Newsome, and my Uncle Stan Newsome of the Long Pull, would have been proud, but worried I would start showing off, and I wouldn’t stop talking. I haven’t cut a ribbon before and I did indeed feel the power beginning to go to my head, but one look from Dick and I settled down, or I’d be told to be quiet and go and wait in the car.
Frost Magazine and our team has so enjoyed being part of the Columbia Community Association’s journey, and to get to know you all over the months. Dick and I had a lovely chat with so many of you ‘on the day’, and with the Flowing Energy Solutions crew who had sorted solar energy for the centre, and who had been determined to attend.
At last, as I stood there, scissors in hand, I was able to voice my thoughts, and mention the magazine’s (and our readers’) admiration and delight to see ‘the community’ in action. For without the support of the community this would not have happened, no matter how hard the team, especially Marion and Bob, had worked. (They never stopped working, planning, approaching the unwary for favours…)To see such a community in 2023 is heartwarming, and moving. This is just the beginning for the new Brady Square community centre, so bravo to all of you, and Frost Magazine will be following you, always, and indeed, Margaret will be back for the Friday coffee mornings, to catch up on the gossip.
Information: Columbia Community Association Columbia uk Community Forum