On Feb. 23, more than 150 friends celebrated “new beginnings” in the life of Margaret Wilson as she prepared to move from Anniston to be near her two sons and families in Burlington, N.C.

There were no au revoirs — just good wishes — at the delightful late afternoon affair at Classic on Noble. Classic proprietors Cathy and David Mashburn were party co-hosts, along with Margaret’s longtime Christopher Way neighbor Carol Dawson, plus Mandi and Dr. Don King, Betty and Dr. Gaston McGinnis, Rhonda and Mike Monroe, Colleen and Jim Roberts, Christa and Dr. Rush Smith, and Patricia and Henry Smith.

The Mashburns created a living room vignette in the center of the party space, where guests sat and visited with Margaret. On a large coffee table (embellished with a vase of roses) were photographs that her grandson had sent of her new and capacious apartment, which had already been set up with her furniture and accessories, just waiting for Margaret’s arrival.

Red roses and shining silver provided the décor on the elegant buffet, which featured equally elegant fare, including shrimp, bacon-wrapped dates, tiny Reuben sandwiches and crepes, a variety of cheeses and, of course, finger-sized desserts.

Among well-wishing guests were many fellow volunteers of Knox Concert Series, an organization to which Margaret has contributed her resources and personal energies for many years, both in ticket sales and as program advertising seller for her good friend (and party hostess) Betty McGinnis.

Also attending were Beth and Dr. Bill Meehan, President of Jacksonville State University, and their special guest, Anna Haynes, who is the latest recipient of the prestigious P.O. and Margaret Wilson Scholarship. It was the first time the two had met, and, of course, a photo op happened.

Bill Meehan also provided the evening’s toast, incorporating the sentiments of all the hosts and guests: Anniston was losing a dear friend, an immeasurably supportive member of the community, and a delightfully witty lady.

“However,” he added, “her friends all knew that Margaret would enjoy taking a new town under her energetic wing.”

To share your news with Small Talk, contact Annette Maddox at starsmalltalk@yahoo.com.

Save the Date

Head to downtown Anniston on April 21 as historic Noble Street becomes cyclists— and pedestrians—only for the Noble Street Festival. This FREE family festival features pro bike races, restaurants, music, art, a running race and healthy activities for kids. The Noble Street Festival benefits Calhoun County Relay for Life, a fund-raiser of the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. Almost $40,000 has been donated since 2005. Several Calhoun County Relay Teams will be at the festival with creative fund-raising booths, so make sure to stop by! Watch the Anniston Star for details.