REGION PRESIDENT JANET’S REPORT – January 2024
I do hope everyone had a good Christmas. How quickly it comes and goes! And may I wish you all a very Happy New Year/Blwyddan Newydd Ddda. I would like to thank Susan again for her year and all her hard work and also for her support whilst I have been unwell. I was so pleased I was able to make the last part of the Regional Meeting on 11th November 2023 for the Change of Insignia. I had only finished treatment less than two weeks before and that was my first “outing”. But I was very glad to see you all (albeit briefly) and share my thoughts for my year.
I then spent some time resting and trying to put some weight on (lots of mince pies with cream!!Dietition`s instructions!!).
My first “official” engagement was at Rhyl Club`s Christmas Concert with the Trewlawnyd Male Voice Choir and Rhyl Savation Army Band in The Marble Church. They were raising money for Rhyl Salvation Army`s Community Work. It was a very successful evening and the church was full. President Shirley and her club had worked very hard to arrange such a successful evening and it certainly was a lovely introduction to the Christmas season. I was able to say a few words and was presented with a poinsettia plant which was lovely. I was so glad that I was able to attend the evening which was very uplifting.
I was sadly unable to attend South Caernarfon`s Carols and lunch. Unfortunately, it was just such a long day with the travelling etc, I did not feel I could manage it. I sent a message to the club who were celebrating their 50th anniversary, and it was read by our Regional Secretary Pat, who was attending the day. I really appreciated that. Well done to South Caernarfon who continue to do great work.
Prior to Christmas, I went to another of Rhyl`s events. Rhyl club have a large garden area at Glan Clwyd Hospital that they tend. It is situated next to a café and patients, visitors and staff can go outside in good weather and enjoy the area. The garden is much bigger than I thought it would be. A few Rhyl Salvation Army Band members were playing carols outside and there were carol books if anyone wanted to join in. The was a collection which was for St Kentigern`s Hospice. It was a lovely occasion and thankfully the weather was dry and even a little sunny. There were refreshments for the band and carol singers.
I am looking forward to the coming year. My wing walk has been paid for. I have the details and I will book the date when the weather is better around May/June. Thank you very much Barry, for another wonderful Christmas present!!
I am looking forward to seeing the officers and Reps soon later this month at the Imperial Hotel here in Llandudno. Thinking hats on for the Barbara Dixon Award which will be coming up. And looking for ideas about how we can promote Soroptimists, make ourselves more visible and perhaps attract younger members. But at the same time remember Friendship and Care for each other through what are difficult times both in our own country and throughout the world.
Take care.
In friendship,
President Janet
