I open this newsletter with a huge thank you to all those Soroptimists and friends who organised and attended my Yorkshire Day Food and Drink Event. Particular thanks go to Julie and Mike Thompson for organising and running the evening along with Andy Kasubee who spoke so passionately about the beers. Mike knew that he had chosen a cracking wine from Italy as the last of our 6 wine tastings – indeed the Pasqua “Desire Lush and Zin Primitivo” will now become a firm favourite of mine! Judith Alce from my own club organised the venue for me and thanks also to the volunteers on the night who ensured that the event ran smoothly: Pat Thornes, Linda Davis, Janine Maw, Jean Thompsom, Susan Mendosa, Sue Glover, Lindsay Green and Amanda Potts. Huge thanks also go to Sarah Barnes from Beer Houses who sponsored the beers

I open my newsletter with the Officers’ meeting which was actually held at the very end of June at the Bridge Inn. I can’t believe that it was the last one that will fully Chair as the President Elects will take over from me at the October meeting as much of the content will relate to their forthcoming year. It was a very positive get together- it never ceases to amaze me that we have such a depth of creativity in the region.   I hope that you will have all received the booking forms for the September RCM. Please try to attend if you are able. The theme is The Region and we will be showcasing the best of Programme Action in Yorkshire.   I was pleased to be able to participate in the Regional Friendship Walk at Cannon Hall on the 18th. Eighteen

  I begin this month’s newsletter with my visit to Bingley Community Kitchen. I am sure that many of you will have heard about the amazing work there, but it was a privilege to actually visit. The Kitchen now operates in partnership with Food Savers Network and Inn Churches. Volunteers include Soroptimists, Rotarians and church members. From the original “Cook and Eat “sessions it has developed into a space where clients can meet for coffee and for £5 (£1 of which is invested in a credit union to encourage saving), choose 15 different foods (from a large choice of high quality groceries) plus fruit and vegetables. In addition, the ingredients and method for the week’s chosen recipe may also be taken. The Kitchen is welcoming, akin to a shop layout and full of chatter, fellowship and hope. An inspiring model that endeavours to alleviate poverty

PRESIDENT’S JUNE NEWSLETTER     The Bank holiday and first week of May were calmer for me after the hectic end to April and I was able to spend some quality time with my family. The first Soroptimist event of the month was my New Presidents’ Lunch on the 11th which was kindly hosted at the home of Linda Phillips with other members of my club in attendance. The weather was glorious and we were able to sit in the beautiful garden. I was able to welcome new presidents, officers, other club members and there were 11 clubs represented. The food was delicious and I will definitely be asking for some of the recipes! The photo below is from this event.   The following day I was pleased to attend SI Halifax 96th Charter Lunch, the club being the 3rd to be formed in our

The busy month of April began with my planning meeting. The agenda items are becoming less as my year progresses – I can’t believe how the weeks are flying by! On the 7th, I was delighted to attend SI Skipton in Craven’s 75th Charter Lunch at High Corn Mill in Skipton. A beautiful meal was followed by entertainment from a talented duo of teenage singers, one of whom is soon to be on stage in London’s West End.   On the 17th I was present at SI Harrogate and District’s AGM in the Crown Hotel. I was made most welcome and it was a privilege to hear about their activities and the Programme work that they have undertaken during their 90th year. I was able to present 6 Long Service Awards – Janet Hutton having given 45 years of service. Incoming President Christine Anderson has