Farraline Place celebrates coronation at annual garden party

After a rainy week, the sun shone and the temperature was perfect as Farraline Place held its annual garden party Aug. 10. The theme was the celebration of King Charles III’s coronation.

Farraline Place is an seniors’ residence in downtown Fredericton affiliated with the Anglican Church Women (ACW) in New Brunswick. Local and out of town ACW members attended, along with members of the board, and Archbishop David Edwards.

As usual, the spacious garden at Farraline Place was the venue. Each table was decorated with cut flowers in vases and fine china. 

House administrator Judy O’Donnell welcomed everyone to the party. Musician Linda Richardson led the crowd in O Canada and God Save The King and throughout the afternoon, sang a selection of old songs like When Irish Eyes are Smiling and Blue Skies. 

There were lots of people in fancy dress, including ladies wearing colourful hats.

Judy thanked the staff and volunteers for helping put the day together, which is a highlight for residents.

“My staff are great,” she said. “I take no credit for this.”

Resident Joan Gorham wore a special hat for the event. A neighbour lent her the hat, which had been to two royal weddings. Prizes were given for the best hats of the day, and of course, Joan was one of the winners.

Board president Darleen Cogswell thanked the staff for their work and families of residents for attending.

“We’re happy you’re all here today,” she said. 

Peggy Boucher, vice-president of the diocesan ACW, brought greetings from the group.

“We thank the staff for making this a real home for our seniors,” she said.

Bishop David, on his first day back from vacation in the UK, thanked Judy and the staff for their hard work and asked the blessing on the food.

The food was coronation-themed, and included cucumber sandwiches, deviled eggs, blueberry scones, French macarons and frosted shortbread cookies. 

Judy noted that last year, donations at the party helped purchase new blinds for the sunporch. This year’s donations will help fund new blinds for bedrooms.

There were two vacancies at the residence. For those interested, contact Judy at 506-455-6443 for information and a tour.

PHOTO CAPTIONS
1.  The yard at Farraline Place on Queen Street in Fredericton is the perfect venue for a garden party.

2.  Archbishop David Edwards chats with some of the guests at the garden party.

3.  The Parish of Oromocto and Maugerville was well represented by these ACW members:  Elaine McIntyre, Dianne Buchanan, Helen Brownridge and Barb Cruickshank.

4.  Resident Joan Gorham was lent a hat for the occasion which has been worn to two royal weddings. 
McKnight photos