We were delighted to welcome a new member, Kelly Bowsher, at our AGM. Kelly is a funeral director and heard about us when she arranged a funeral for a past member and being a Soroptimist club President was mentioned in her eulogy. Kelly attended some virtual meetings before officially joining and we were all very pleased to finally meet her in person when we had our first outdoor meeting in May.
Janet Murfin became club President at the AGM. Janet’s year was intended for 2020-2021 but due to the pandemic, she shared the year with Pat Kerfoot and postponed her full year to this one. Janet’s theme is ‘Inspirational women’. Her charities include Feed the Minds and Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline.
Our first face to face meeting was at a local park where we took flasks of coffee. It was very pleasant to have a chat catching up and we even had some cupcakes!
Our May speaker was Phillip Vipond, Conwy Borough Council local government officer for parks and gardens. One of our members, Celia, has been communicating with Phil regarding the planting of trees in Happy Valley Llandudno to commemorate the Soroptimist centenary. He spoke to us about the history of the location and about the logistics of choosing trees to plant including protection from the famous Kashmir goats! We also have permission to donate a bench from Plastecowood, a local firm who make garden furniture from recycled plastic; the bench will have a plaque. This was the council’s message to us as Soroptimists which makes us very proud.
“The history of your work and developments inspired us to want to recognise the valuable work you achieve on behalf of Women and Girls at a worldwide level. Access to permanent features within Happy Valley is something we protect due to the history of the gardens but were inspired by your story to want to recognise the good work you do and include your organisation for others to see and learn about.”
Below- Coffee in the park and meeting Kelly (front right).
Below: President Janet and a photo of the Happy Valley where the bench and trees will be sited.
