The Bellevue Manor Community at 1520 Caldwell Ave. celebrated the grand re-opening of the Carlington Recreation Centre October 15 with a new gym floor.
The floor was resurfaced and a Regupol Multipurpose Sports Flooring System was installed at a cost of $36,800. The Bellevue Manor Tenant's Association, Bellevue Youth Initiative Coalition and area youth were instrumental in advocating for the community's needs.
Financial support for this flooring was provided through former councillor Karen Howard's WhIP fund and the Self-Help Program of the City of Ottawa.
Special guests at the opening included Mayor Jim Watson, Councillor Jim Bickford, service providers and community members. Beaver Tails Canadian Inc. donated hot chocolate and beaver tails for all who attended. After the opening ceremonies, area youth challenged the Mayor and Councillor Bickford to a basketball game.
The occasion was very special. Once again, the community pulled together in the face of considerable obstacles. The end result will benefit the children and youth of this community for a long time.
![[graphic]](gym.jpg)
City Councillor Jim Bickford, Mayor Jim Watson and Tenants' Association President Rose Wakeham cutting the ribbon on the new floor for the Carlington Gym.