Improving quality of life
Sessions offer chance for people to catch up with friends
Rev. Lydia MacKinnon is quick to point out that the idea to offer a location for a drop-in program in the community is not original.
But the success of “Tea and Talk” at the St. Columba Church Hall in Marion Bridge has obviously addressed a need.
Tea and Talk is held every second Tuesday at the hall from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It is free of charge and open to everyone.
MacKinnon, who oversees services at both St. Columba and Union Presbyterian Church in Albert Bridge, said members of St. Columba met last year to brainstorm ways to help
support the quality of life for residents of the area. They looked to other organizations and were impressed with the success of a similar program offered at St. James Church in Big Bras d’Or.
She explains that the winter months can be difficult for some. Travel can be limited by weather. People can become isolated.
“Here, they can visit with neighbors. See old friends and meet new ones.”
MacKinnon also noted that residents in the Mira Ferry area can meet at Mullins Rite Stop or Missy’s Diner for conversation, but no such opportunity was readily available in Marion Bridge.
Tea and Talk has been averaging 30 or more visitors. Some stay for the entire session, while others just drop by for a quick visit. MacKinnon praised her congregation for being so supportive of the program.
“They realize that being with people is good for one’s mental health. When people visit here, they have told me they are made to feel at home.”
The next Tea and Talk is scheduled for Tuesday, April 3. In addition to tea and coffee, some snacks are also provided and there is no set program.
“It’s just a casual and friendly atmosphere with lots of great conversation.”
Too poor to go south?
If you are longing for the feeling of tropical sand between your toes but a trip south is not in the cards or maybe you have just returned from a sunny destination and want to keep the party going, then head to the Mira Boat Club on Saturday, April 14.
The “Too Poor to go South Barbecue and Dance” will include all the fixins’ and one beverage ticket. Barbecuing begins at 6:30. Dancing will take place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. with music from Gary Chew and John Kendall.
Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased Thursdays and Fridays at the bar.
Weekly Events
• Tuesday night Tarabish, 7 p.m., Marion Bridge Community Hall.
• Every second Wednesday, 2 p.m., 45s card game, Mira Centre, Marion Bridge.
• Thursdays, Mira Boat Club, Yoga with Laurie-Don upstairs, 7 p.m. Bring a mat and wear comfortable clothes. To pre-register phone 902-322-1426
• Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., downstairs at Mira Boat Club, mixed darts. Everyone welcome.
• Thursday night Tarabish, 7:30 p.m., St. Margaret’s Hall, Grand Mira South.
• Friday night socials at the Mira Boat Club. There will be drink specials.
• Fridays, plus darts, 7:30 p.m., St. Margarets Hall.
• Weekly 50/50 draw, Two Rivers Wildlife Park. Tickets can be purchased at Park or from park staff.
Other Events
• Today, 4-8 p.m., Mira Boat club, entertainment by Wayne Bedecki. Kitchen will be open and there is no cover charge.
• Sunday, March 25, the public is invited to attend the annual general meeting of the Marion Bridge Community Council at 7 p.m., Marion Bridge Community Hall.
• Thursday, March 29, Maundy Thursday potluck supper, 6:309:30 p.m., Fourchu.
• Friday, March 30, fishcake dinner, 4-6 p.m., St. Margaret’s Hall.
• Saturday, March 31, Easter egg decorating from 1-3 p.m., Two Rivers Wildlife Park. All materials will be supplied. All decorated eggs will be used by the Easter Bunny the following day. Bring your Easter Basket and trade in your eggs for chocolate Eggs. Children up to 12 years of age. Regular park admission will apply.
• Saturday, April 4, 7 p.m., Monthly meeting, Mira Boat Club. Everyone welcome to attend and volunteers are needed.
• Sunday, April 8, Gabarus potluck, 4-6 p.m., Mildred Gray Community Hall.
• Saturday, April 14, chicken breast dinner, 4-6 p.m., Union Church Hall, Albert Bridge.
• Saturday, April 14, pub night fun, 8 p.m., Marion Bridge Community Hall.
• Sunday, April 15, annual general meeting of the Gabarus Lightkeepers Society, 2-4 p.m., Mildred Gray Hall.
For more information on upcoming events, please visit Marion-bridge.ca.