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Chesterfield u3a celebrates 30 years
David, who helps to organise Chesterfield u3a's CAMEO meetings, talks about how a special meeting marked their u3a's 30th anniversary.
In Autumn 1994, Chesterfield u3a began with walking, theatre and discussion groups. Thirty years later it has over 800 members and 77 active groups from Art Appreciation to Zumba.
At significant anniversaries, Chesterfield celebrates and publicises its activities with a CAMEO – Come and Meet Each Other – meeting for u3a members and the public.
In the past we met in one of Chesterfield’s civic venues, but cost increases forced on the Council meant we had to make a move for our 30th Anniversary gathering to Chesterfield FC’s splendid SMH Group Stadium. We aimed to energise members, bring together different groups who do not normally meet each other, and raise the profile of u3a in the area.
The rather splendid new venue seems to have encouraged a strong attendance. In the past attendances at our CAMEO meetings have usually been about 150, but around 300 people came to the September 25th meeting to see displays by 37 groups and share our anniversary cake. The careful planning of member Pat meant we did not have to send out for more cake, but it was a close run thing.
Roger, Chair, introduced the meeting, referring to our history and today’s changing challenges. The Mayor of Chesterfield, Cllr Jenny Flood, who visited with Mayoress Heather Hopkinson, placed u3a in the context of the needs of older people and the general community in Chesterfield. John Lewis, Trustee for the East Midlands, gave the national perspective.
The number of people who came rather cramped the style of our musical and dancing groups, but we enjoyed their performances and hope to hear and see more at a future open meeting.
Visitors could see displays and talk to members with activities going on from Rummikub to Canasta, “try it yourself” opportunities from Board Games and Ukulele, and creative work including handicraft, painting and drawing, flower arranging and patchwork. Spacecraft and rocket models drew many to the Astronomy table and there were slide shows and videos from German, Photography and Walking groups. The Dog Walking crew included one canine member, though it is unclear whether she pays a full sub.
We had about thirty membership enquiries, some for couples, and hope to see these translate into new memberships. The Mayor expressed interest in u3a when her term of office ends, and has asked the CAMEO organising group to join her for tea in the Mayor’s Parlour.
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