News Letter No 115 - Ray Clark

'EDITORIAL'

As we begin this new year, it might be appropriate to reflect on what we had set out to do in 2007 and on some of our achievements during the past 12 months.

We had, as always, aimed to support the Association in all its activities around the County whilst, locally, we had decided to concentrate our efforts on building our membership numbers; these objectives were seen to be closely linked to a determination that our members should enjoy all that we do and enjoy too the opportunities that follow to assist local good causes; thus was born our 'byline' which we are certainly not shy to quote again here:-

"...having fun, raising funds for Kent charities..." 

The branch programme in 2007 was full and varied; we played Bat & Trap; our 'ladies who lunch' joined of course by their menfolk (of Kent) enjoyed a number of occasions centred upon good food in good company; we taxed our own, and others', brains at quizzes; and our 'intrepid travellers' were out and about on coach trips.  This list is not exhaustive but suffice to say that our programme alongside much effort, attracted a good number of new members.

Thanks to members' support for our fund-raising events, we were able to to give close to £1500 to local charities - our most successful performance for many years;  a full list of our donations will be in our treasurer's AGM Report.

Behind the scenes, Jim Hopkins, our treasurer, has improved our membership records and we now have a better idea of what members expect from the Branch and importantly too, we have greater awareness of what they are prepared to provide towards our aims and activities.  As most of you will know, he has created a Branch WEBSITE - the first of its type in the whole Association - and access to it provides information on what we have done and are planning and a lot more besides; remember our web address and pass it on to friends, family, work colleagues, acquaintances, email contacts etc (we also have business cards to help, if you'd like some)   :-

www.menofkentlynsted.org.uk 

PLEASE NOTE THESE DATES    ........................   PLEASE NOTE THESE DATES

Saturday 9th February

A WINTER WARMER GAMES EVENING

This will be at Teynham Village Hall at 7pm for 7.30pm.  We shall be trying to lift the 'January Glooms' with an evening of LIVE MUSIC  (with our old friend Bob Mummery) and a good HOT SUPPER and, of course the GAMES  (some maybe a bit physical but plenty of others for the less active).

There will be an 'Instant Raffle' and prizes for this will be appreciated - before the event, please and ideally delivered to Medlar House, next to The Black Lion, Lynsted.

TICKETS - price £7 - are available now from any committee member or by contacting Judi Randall on 01795 521771.

The evening's cash proceeds will be devoted to supporting the RNLI and the Kent Association for the Blind (both charities have been nominated by members).

Friday 28th March - the Branch AGM at The Black Lion.  Members will shortly be receiving formal notification of the meeting with Agenda.

Saturday 26th April - a (K)NOSH AND KNOWLEDGE evening (our regular Springtime quiz night) at Bapchild Village Hall.  More details a little nearer the time but why not round up your family and friends now for this popular event.

Sunday 6th July - a JAZZ PICNIC at Medlar House, Lynsted.  This promises to be a rather special occasion with professional musicians entertaining us as we eat (and drink) our 'byo' in Alison and Jim Hopkins' delightful garden. More details soon but keep the date free meanwhile and pray for good weather.