Soroptimist International Contacts
of Anguilla
Day Care Centre:
Tel: 264 497 3509
President: Donnette Richardson
Tel: 264 497 8983
Secretary: Josephine Gumbs
Tel: 264 497 2711
Email:
sirandladygumbs@anguillanet.com
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Soroptimist International Contacts
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Welcome to our website.
New Members 2013
The Club was pleased to welcome three new members at the meeting on July 9.
They are Catherine Emanuel, Yolande Richardson & Georgia Mathew.
Fifteen complete the Soroptimist Reading Workshop 2013
Fifteen primary school students a
ttended
the Soroptimist Reading Workshop from July 15-30. Six of the students will be
going to the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School Campus B in September. The
purpose of the workshop is to assist students to improve their reading,
comprehension and vocabulary skills.
Soroptimist Stella Horsford organised the workshop with the help of several
members of the Club and the Miss Anguilla contestants who assisted on four of
the mornings. She urged the students to ask their parents or older siblings to
continue to assist them with reading during the holidays. She thanked them for
attending and wished them good luck for the next school year. She encouraged
them to work hard, behave well, to attend regularly and to be on time.
Jacquie Connor, representing the Education Department, commended the children
for attending and for their diligence. She urged them to continue to learn more
and to join the library and the special programme there in August.
One of the students spoke on behalf of all the attendees and thanked the
Soroptimists and the Education Department for organising the workshop.
Annual General Meeting
At
the Annual General Meeting held on April 30 2013 the Presidency was handed over
from Carmencita Davis to Donnette Richardson. The outgoing President thanked
her executive committee and presented each with a rose. She said that efforts
were made to upgrade the Day Care Centre and that attendance at meetings needs
to improve. She urged members to continue to develop the spirit of friendship
and wished the new President good luck.
Treasurer, Anita Brooks reported on the income and expenditure and the current
position of bank accounts. Secretary Josephine Gumbs gave a full report on
activities during the year for each committee. She said there are currently 37
members of the Club and several potential new members. She reported on the Day
Care Centre, the fundraising events, the speakers during the year and the
regional and international conferences. Other reports were given by Programme
Action convener, Denise Romney and Councillor, Linda Banks.
President Donnette thanked the past president and executive noting that
Soroptimist International plays a very important role in bringing women
together to improve the lives of women and children worldwide. She said that
her focus this year will be to improve the Day Care Centre that has been in
existence since 1988. She urged each member to work hard, to attend meetings
and to pull their weight in the club’s activities. “We are women, we are
strong,” she concluded.
The new Executive Committee includes President Donnette Richardson, Immediate
Past President Carmencita Davis, President Elect, Pamela Connor, Vice President
Maryse West, Treasurer Anita Brooks, Secretary Josephine Gumbs, Programme
Action Denise Romney, Councillor Linda Banks and Committee members Maryse West,
Stella Horsford, Alison Carty and Violet Berry.
Stingray Programme
The
Stingray Programme started in 2005 by Bankie Banx and Ijahnya Christian has
been re-opened by the Anguilla Soroptimist Club. The main objectives of the
programme are to give young Anguillians the opportunity to learn to play the
guitar and to enjoy the benefits involved.
At the launch on Friday November 9 2012 Bankie said that he originally started
the programme to keep young people out of trouble. He said that as a youth
playing the guitar kept him out of trouble so he hoped to do the same for
others. He said it keeps a focus and gives discipline as well as much pleasure.
He said that young people are playing with guns but a guitar is a better
choice.
President of the Soroptimist Club, Carmencita Davis welcomed Bankie, the twelve
participants and two teachers as well as other Soroptimist members. She thanked
the young people for enrolling and expressed the hope that they will benefit
from the programme. She urged them to have a good time.
Soroptimist Blondell Rodgiers, who is organising the project, thanked Wilmoth
Connor and Clinton Richardson for teaching the programme. She said that she
hoped the Soroptimists would be able to measure up to the original group
started by Bankie and Ijahnya and make it a success. She urged the participants
to try hard and learn the skills in playing the guitar. The guitars are being
supplied by Bankie who bought them for the original programme. He plans to
continue to raise funds for the project.
The group meets every Monday and Friday at the Soroptimist Hall.
Soroptimist members learn about home gardening
More than twenty members of the Soroptimist Club on Tuesday October 9 2012
visited the Department of Agriculture to learn how to set up a home garden to
grow tomatoes, celery, peppers, herbs and more. Director of Agriculture William
Vanterpool and Sheldon Richardson explained details of the correct mixture of
soil, how to fertilize and its importance, and how to treat pests.
Sheldon gave a practical demonstration of setting up a tyre garden using two
tyres and filling at least eight inches in depth. Members were encouraged to
plant tomatoes and celery and given seedlings.
The visit was arranged by the Environmental Committee of the Soroptimist Club
that plans next year when members have experienced their own home gardens to
visit schools and encourage home gardening. The idea is that in turn the
children will go home and start gardens at home. This will be in keeping with
the Department’s theme “In Every Home a Garden”.
Carmencita
Davis has taken over the presidency of the Anguilla Soroptimist Club, succeeding
Olive Hodge who was the President for the past year. At the Annual General
Meeting on April 26 2012 the chain of office was placed on Carmencita Davis by
Patron of the Club, Rosena Brooks.
Annual Christmas Fair raises funds for Day Care Centre
Despite adverse weather conditions on Saturday the Soroptimist Christmas Fair
went ahead on Sunday December 4 at the Post Office in The Valley. There were a
variety of stalls and lots of fun for the children including a visit from Santa.
Stalls included the sale of crafts, toys, art, cakes, jewellery, gifts and more.
A delicious lunch was served and there was ice cream on sale all day. Games for
the children included fishing, spin the wheel and tombola with lots of good
prizes. A fortune teller was also a popular booth. Santa and Mrs Claus were the
centre of attraction for the young children who assured him how good they have
been all year and received a gift.
Three groups of young dancers from the Klassique Academy of Dance gave good
performances that were popular with the crowd that gathered in the afternoon.
President of the Soroptimist Club, Olive Hodge thanked all who supported the
Fair with special thanks to Digicel for their assistance. Funds raised will go
towards the maintenance and support of the Day Care Centre.
Soroptimist 30th Anniversary 2011
More
than one hundred persons were present at the 30th Anniversary Dinner of the
Soroptimist Club. Governor Alistair Harrison congratulated members on their
achievements and in particular Ena Woodstock who founded the Club in 1981. He
noted the many ways the Soroptimists have served the community and can be proud
of their achievements.
Chief Minister Hubert Hughes said that the Soroptimist Club of Anguilla has
distinguished itself by keeping its pledge of service to others. He outlined
some of the achievements of the club including the Day Care Centre which he
described as a huge undertaking, the annual reading workshop, and its community
and global outreach to those in need. “Continue to keep up the good work and may
you prosper in all your future endeavours,” he commented.
President of the St Martin Soroptimist Club, Josianne Gibbs brought greetings
and congratulations from the French clubs in St Martin, Guadeloupe and
Martinique. She noted that members are making a better living possible for women
and girls and are living the motto daily by serving and loving each other. A
plaque was presented to President Olive Hodge by Irma Richardson on behalf of
the Chesterfield Club in the UK which is linked to Anguilla, congratulating them
on the 30th Anniversary.
President Olive Hodge made a presentation to Molly Hodge, the first President of
the Club, and they both cut a cake made by Soroptimist Violet Berry to
commemorate the occasion.
The event was chaired by Soroptimist Linda Banks and held at the Coba Restaurant
of the Viceroy Resort. The Mayoumba Folkloric group performed with lively
singing and dancing to bring the evening to a close.
Ena Woodstock was in Anguilla for some of the anniversary events but as the
dinner was postponed could not attend. In a message to members she congratulated
the club members past and present “for their work in supporting their club over
the past 30 years and especially for their effort in supporting women, children
and needy persons during that period.”
Soroptimist Club supports library during 30th Anniversary celebrations
More than thirty books were presented to the Public Library by members of the
Soroptimist Club. The donation was part of the celebrations for the Club’s 30th
Anniversary.
President Olive Hodge said that she hoped that the books will be well used and
the children will appreciate and take care of them. She noted that during the
30th anniversary members of the Club are extending to the community and the day
before had visited two of the senior citizens homes and presented gifts to them.
Irma Richardson, who chairs the Education Committee of the Club’s Programme
Action, said that the plan was to give thirty books but due to the generosity of
donors more were presented. She noted that the library staff was consulted about
the selection of books and a variety of non-fiction and fiction books were
presented as a result.
Director of Library Services, Carmen Oliveras expressed thanks on behalf of the
library staff to both the Soroptimists and the donors noting that the library is
always willing to accept any books for the library
Soroptimists continue support for Paediatric Ward
As part of the community outreach for the Soroptimist Club’s 30th Anniversary
members visited the Paediatric Ward of the Princess Alexandra Hospital on
Tuesday December 20 and presented 30 books. Past President Blondell Rodgiers had
purchased the books to add to those already in the ward and also gave a
bookstand to hold them.
President Olive Hodge presented the books on behalf of the Club saying that she
is glad there were not many children in the hospital at this time. She noted
that the Club had adopted the Paediatric Ward in 2004 and at that time had
decorated the walls with murals, drawn by local artists. They had also bought a
television and VCR and toys, books, colouring books and pencils so that children
staying there could be entertained.
Director of Nursing Services, Vonetta Connor expressed heartfelt thanks for the
books and all that the Soroptimist members are doing. She said that they will be
used and she was pleased some of the books were educational and one or two were
in Spanish.
Soroptimists hold School Leavers Workshop
As part of the thirtieth anniversary week of activities the Soroptimist Club of
Anguilla held a successful School Leavers’ Workshop. It was attended by more
than seventy fifth and sixth formers from the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive
School. President of the Club, Olive Hodge, spoke to the group about the work of
the Club and its many activities.
The first session was facilitated by Soroptimist Dr Linda Banks and her topic
was “Finding your niche in the workplace,” by using natural and educational
capabilities. She also spoke about the effects of unemployment and preparation
for the outside world.
Dr Phyllis Fleming-Banks dealt with personal characteristics in entering the
world of work, particularly concentrating on integrity, appearance, disposition,
awareness of internal and external customers, dependability and honesty.
Lunch was served to the participants before the afternoon session that was
facilitated by Arlene Ross. She spoke about attitudes—positive versus negative,
and how having a positive attitude in the workplace, giving your best on the
job, not criticising, being constructive and pleasant and thinking of people’s
egos when making suggestions. She also dealt with stress reduction, how to
become a better leader, team work, enthusiasm, efficiency, being easy to work
with and attitude and anger management.
Soroptimist Donnette Richarrdson conducted a fashion show on “how to dress for
the workplace and how not to dress.” A competition was held among the
participants to decide on the best dressed and two boys and two girls tied for
first place and were presented with a rose.
Soroptimist Carmencita Davis, from the Ministry of Labour spoke about labour
from the Ministry of Labour point of view and stressed the need for flexibility
in these hard economic times.
Reading Workshop concludes with certificate presentation
Nineteen boys and ten girls aged between eight and twelve years completed nearly
three weeks of a reading workshop organized by the Soroptimist Club of Anguilla.
This is the seventeenth year that the workshop has taken place and is organized
by Soroptimist Stella Horsford, assisted by other members of the Club.
Stella Horsford expressed thanks to the Education Department for working with
the Soroptimists to choose the children for the workshop. She told the students
that she hoped their reading skills had improved and commended them for their
hard work, good behaviour, excellent and willing cooperation, regularity and
punctuality. She encouraged all of the participants to become members of the
library and to continue to read during the remainder of the holidays.
Sandra Fahie, Education Officer Curriculum, told the students to remember that
reading is FUNdamental. She told them that it is fun to read the newspaper and
magazine articles as well as books from the library. She noted that reading is
key in every aspect of life when travelling, shopping, visiting the doctor, and
on many other occasions. ‘The more you read the more you will know,” she added
encouraging them to read during the vacation.
Certificates were presented to the students by Sandra Fahie and President of the
Club, Olive Hodge. One of the students thanked the Soroptimists and the
Education Department for organising the workshop.
Members of the Soroptimist Club last Friday, May 6, 2011 presented a cheque for US$500.00 to Maysel Davis of Blowing Point. The donation was to assist in the purchase of a prosthesis from the St Maarten Medical Centre. Maysel had her leg amputated above the knee some three years ago due to complications from diabetes. She has five children and manages her home very well but is delighted that she is now being given an opportunity to get a prosthetic limb.
President of the Soroptimist Club, Olive Hodge, presented the cheque saying that members try to help in the community, especially women and girls, and they are very pleased to be able to assist Maysel. "We hope you are successful and have good health in the future," she commented.
The Blowing Point community through the Youth Community Development Centre started a fund for Maysel. They have already raised more than US$1,000.00 through a barbecue and food sale. Other individuals have donated already and the fund now stands at US$3,000.00.
Jemima Romney, the Manager of the Youth Centre said that they are glad to be associated with the project and understand how the situation must affect the children, two of whom attend the Centre. She thanked the Soroptimists for their generous contribution. Maysel added her thanks to the members of the Soroptimist Club.
| President | Olive Hodge |
| Immediate Past President | Blondell Rodgiers |
| President Elect | Carmencita Davis |
| Vice President | Denise Romney |
| Treasurer | Anita Brooks |
| Secretary | Josephine Gumbs |
| Programme Action | Brenda Carty |
| Councillor | Una Gumbs |
| Members | Lisa Gumbs |
| Pamela Connor | |
| Linda Banks |
The new President said it is her third time in that position and she is honoured to be the president again. She recalled the fun times members have had and is hoping for a happy, lively Club that can move forward and assist the community, especially young girls. "We must aim to promote comradeship and well-being and go forward better and stronger," she commented.
The AGM included a report from Secretary Violet Berry who spoke of some of the events during the past year. These included the 29th Anniversary dinner at Viceroy Resort, donation of a scholarship to Anita Crawford, the annual Christmas Fair at Government House, a coffee morning, auction, and Valentine breakfast. The Club has continued to run and maintain the Day Care Centre and now cares for more children on a daily basis. Contact with the Link Clubs overseas has been maintained and the club has received publicity in the local papers and radio for most of its events.
Treasurer Anita Brooks congratulated the fund raising committee for the events that have allowed the Club to donate to various causes and still have a good balance in the bank. She gave details of the Club's income and expenditure during the past year.
Programme Action Convener, Brenda Carty reported on the six committees-Health, Environment, Education, Social and Economic, International Goodwill and Understanding and Human Rights. Many activities have taken place including a Health Fair, Reading Workshops, Spanish Classes, work with the World Paediatric Project, meetings for International Women's Day and Say No to Violence, and support for the pre-school in Sri Lanka.
Murielle Owen gave a report on the Day Care Centre finances that has a balance of EC$4,000.00. Blondell Rodgiers announced that Rosena Brooks has agreed to be the Patron of the Club but was unable to attend the AGM. The AGM was ably chaired by Soroptimist Linda Banks who during the course of the reports congratulated members on their achievements.
On Saturday March 5, 2011 President Blondell Rodgiers and members of our Environmental Committee beautified the front entrance of our Day Care Centre. Before the event a concrete planter was built along the front wall of the Centre which was planted with plumbago and kalanchoe plants.
In addition we replaced a tree that had been damaged in last year's hurricane and planted a harpulia or black pearl tree, also known as velvet seed tree, in its place.
On the 100th International Women's Day, members of the Soroptimist Club organized a rally to celebrate the occasion. It was attended by representatives from several other organizations including the Teachers' Union, the National Council of Women, the Methodist Church Women, Family Hope Network, Sisters for Sisters, and Women in Development.
Mrs Norma Hughes, wife of the Chief Minister, urged women to stand up for what is right. She noted that women have been seeking their tight to equality in the home, in society, in the work place and the nation and she congratulated the Soroptimist Club and all other women's groups for making the event possible.
"If we as women do not stand for something that is of moral value then we as a people will be a nation outside of God," she said. "Bring back Christ into our homes, our schools, our communities and our nation. Stand up for our children and each other." She went on to urge the women of Anguilla to rise and confront the many abuses to women including beatings, the ills of prostitution, incest, domestic violence, human trafficking and harassment on the job "Stand up and be counted, this International Women's Day 2011," she concluded.
The United Nations General Secretary's message for International Women's Day was read by Speaker of the House, Barbara Webster-Bourne.
Guest speaker for the occasion was Oldine Bryson-Pantophlet, the President of the Board of Safe Haven in St Maarten. She spoke of her experiences with victims of domestic violence.
The event was chaired by Lana Hoyoung who implored all women to study the Domestic Violence Bill and to lobby for the adoption of the CEDAW (Convention for the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women). She outlined some of the work of the Soroptimists over the years including the lobbying to ensure the extension of the Convention of the Rights of the Child to Anguilla in 1994, the operation of a Day Care Centre, the outreach programmes for education and the environmental campaigns.
Juanita Crawford has received assistance with her studies at the University of the West Indies through the donation of a onetime scholarship grant from the Soroptimist Club. At the monthly meeting of Soroptimist International of Anguilla on January 12, 2011 a cheque was presented to Juanita from President Blondell Rodgiers and treasurer Anita Brooks.
Juanita Crawford was a primary school teacher and then worked as a Careers Guidance Councillor at the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School before starting her studies at Cave Hill Campus, Barbados, in September last year. She is studying Spanish and says that it includes not just the language, but conversation, literature and Spanish culture. The third year of her four year course will be spent in a Spanish speaking country. Juanita plans to teach on completion of her studies.
A group of Soroptimists from the St Martin Club, accompanied by relatives and friends, visited the Anguilla Soroptimists on Sunday November 7, 2010. The two clubs have a Friendship Link and each year get together for a relaxing day at the beach.
This year the venue was Smokeys Restaurant on Cove Bay beach where a delicious lunch was served, right on the beach under two tents. Afterwards some of the members "dared" to swim in the sea that was much rougher than the usual tranquil waters on that beach.
There were nine members of the St Martin Club, headed by President Josieanne Gibbs who has just returned from attending the European Federation Conference in France. Although St Martin and Anguilla are so close Anguilla belongs to the Federation of Great Britain and Ireland and St Martin is part of Soroptimist International of Europe. The clubs keep in close contact and some members from each club always attend the others anniversary dinners.
| President | Blondell Rodgiers |
| Pres Elect | Una Gumbs |
| Vice President | Olive Hodge |
| Past Pres | Stella Horsford |
| Treasurer | Anita Brooks |
| Secretary | Violet Berry |
| Councillor | Josephine Gumbs |
| Prog Action | Brenda Carty |
| Members | Sylvia McMeen |
| Rose Brooks | |
| Pamela Connor | |
| Lisa Gumbs |
The secretary highlighted the events of the past year. These included the anniversary dinner, the friendship day when members visited the St Martin Soroptimists, the Christmas Fair and the annual concert. Two members went to the regional conference in Grenada and two members went to the Federation Conference in Cardiff, Wales. She also reported on the work of the various committees including fund raising events and the work of the Day Care Centre.
Soroptimist Anita Brooks gave the treasurer's report and Soroptimist Murielle Owen reported on the finances of the Day Care Centre. Programme Action Convener Brenda Carty reported on activities for the year that included a successful Health Fair, visits to the Senior Citizens Home, a summer reading workshop for ten and eleven year olds, the continued anti plastic bag campaign, and the meetings held for Human Rights Day and International Women's Day.
President Blondell thanked the members for their support during the past year and said she looks forward to continuing support. She said that there have been many challenges, especially in connection with the financial situation and the running of the Day Care Centre. She asked members to come together, to share ideas, and together build beyond expectations. She suggested that they look to the Soroptimist Pledge to work together and note that actions and behaviour must reflect what Soroptimism stands for. She urged members to be actively involved in the work of the Club and said that she looks forward to a productive 2011.
The President gave special thanks to persons who have served well during the past year and to the Environment Committee for gaining the Federation Award for the project "Say no to Plastics". The event was ably chaired by Soroptimist Alison Carty and the evening ended with refreshments and fellowship among the members.
The feature address was given by Carla Harris-Pascal who urged those present to work with young people, to mentor them, hold forums to talk of the challenges of life, talk about sex, and their responsibility to themselves for good health.
The theme "Equal Rights Equal Opportunities Progress for All" was highlighted by the many speakers who included the newly appointed Speaker of the House of Assembly, Barbara Webster-Bourne, Ernie Hodge-Carty, President of the National Council of Women, Brenda Carty, Programme Action Officer for the Soroptimists, Ken Hodge, Principal Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Home and Gender Affairs, Patricia Beard speaking on HIV/AIDS, Emma Ferguson from the Anguilla Teachers Union and Ijahnya Christian. Many of the speakers congratulated the new Speaker as she is the first woman to hold that position in Anguilla. She said that with the support of all more can be achieved and together women can make a difference. "My hope is that we will continue to see progress, advancement, and equal opportunity for women in every part of the world. I trust that we can continue to work together to move beyond the "small talk" and resort to action, to improve the quality of life of women everywhere," she stressed.
Lana Hoyoung, who heads the Human Rights committee of the Soroptimist Club, said that it is time that there is an elected woman in the House of Assembly. "We do have reasons to celebrate some of the strides we the women of Anguilla have made but let it be known we are not there as yet. The road is long and winding but as women we must continue to press on," she urged.
Anguilla was nominated as one of the best projects in the Environment category and at the Conference the Anguilla Club presented a film, produced by Rocklyn Maynard, showing their project. The Club topped the many others that were nominated from around the world and received the Best Practice Award for Environment.
In the meantime members of the Club are urging the public to assist them in their campaign by purchasing and using reusable bags for their shopping and by purchasing biodegradable products in the form of plates, cups, bowls, napkins and garbage bags that are available at the Anguilla National Trust.
Entertainment included music by the steel band of the Albena Lake Hodge Comprehensive School and dancing by the moko jumbies. The many booths provided opportunities for Christmas gifts to be purchased. They included many craft stalls with decorations, jewellery, pet gifts, dolls, napkin holders, candles, soaps and more. Other stalls included cakes, tombola, white elephant, plants, and drinks. There was lots of fun for the children with games and a bouncy castle as well as the popular visit and photo with Santa.
Funds raised at the Christmas Fair are for maintenance of the Soroptimist Day Care Centre and other projects of the Club. The Soroptimist members expressed thanks to the many businesses, restaurants, hotels and individuals who assisted them with donations for the lunch and prizes, and to the Governor Alistair Harrison and Mrs Harrison for allowing the Fair to be held at Government House.
The Health Fair was held on a Saturday morning in a central part of the main town. Each segment was held in a separate booth under a tent. There was a variety of health information ranging from cancer prevention, dental diseases, nutrition, blood sugar tests, blood pressure tests, massage, HIV/AIDS prevention, eye care and First Aid.
One of the island's top doctors was there to give advice on cancer prevention and she recommended tests necessary for women such as mammograms and pap smears and also suggested regular breast examinations and a colonoscopy every ten years. A local optician offered complete eye tests that included distance and near vision checks, muscle imbalance, colour vision and horizontal field test. The Government dental surgeon advised on dental diseases and the treatment necessary. The diabetes booth was very popular where people were given blood sugar tests and blood pressure tests. Nutrition, HIV/AIDS, the Mental Health Association, an osteopath and the Red Cross were also present at the Fair.
One of the highlights of the Fair was a drum circle led by a local resident who had just returned from attending a drum circle workshop in the USA. .She says that drum circles are fun and promote self-expression, reduce stress, create social interaction, build community, provide exercise for the mind body and spirit and can be for persons of all ages.
| President | Blondell Rodgiers |
| President elect | Una Gumbs |
| Imm Past President | Stella Horsford |
| Vice President | Olive Hodge |
| Secretary | Lana Hoyoung |
| Treasurer | Anita Brooks |
| Councillor | Josephine Gumbs |
| Programme Action | Brenda Carty |
| Members | Carmencita Davis |
| Violet Berry | |
| Sylvia McMeen |
Outgoing President Horsford said the year has been one of delights and challenges. She said that the Day Care is always a challenge and there have been a few incidents during the past year. She spoke of the Federation Conference in Barbados as one of the delights and the first Caribbean President Marguerite Woodstock-Riley who is the daughter of Ena Woodstock, a former Magistrate in Anguilla who founded the Anguilla Soroptimist Club. She urged committees to function and to re-commit to the work of the Club. She thanked her secretary, Margaret Mitchell, who she described as very supportive, as well as the members of the Executive. The outgoing president wished the new president a fruitful and productive year.
New President Blondell Rogers and Outgoing President Stella Horsford
The Secretary outlined some of the events of the year including fund raising efforts and speakers the Club has had. She spoke of the Anniversary Dinner held at the English Rose Restaurant and the Christmas social and farewell for the past patron, Mrs George. She reported that the Programme Action committee has continued to support education on the island and through the environment committee is trying to ban the use of plastic bags and introduce biodegradable items. She also noted that the Health Committee has continued its anti-cancer campaign by encouraging mammograms and pap smears for women and the Human Rights committee held two interesting functions on Human Rights Day and the Elimination of Violence Against Women Day.
A report on the Day Care Centre was given by Donnette Richardson who spoke of the upgrade the Centre has received. She noted that there is still a need for playground equipment for the children to enjoy the garden of the Day Care Centre.
The Treasurer, Anita Brooks reported on the various fund raising events and congratulated the committee for their efforts. She also thanked the business community including Gulf Insurance for its support.
President Blondell Rodgiers thanked members for putting their confidence in her and promised to do her best for the Club. She asked for the support of all and thanked the Past President for her work. "Everyone must pitch in," she admonished, "so that the work is not a burden for a few."
Two stamps released for Soroptimist Anniversary.
ANGUILLA-The first stamp issue for 2007 is in recognition of one of Anguilla's prominent service organizations, the Soroptimist Club's 25th Anniversary. There are two stamps; one has the Soroptimist logo and is EC$1.90 and the other features Alecia Ballin, a charter member of the Club and is the $2.75 stamp. A short ceremony, chaired by Soroptimist Violet Berry, took place at the Post Office on Monday January 29.
At the launching, Minister of Finance, Victor Banks, said that the Soroptimists have given 25 years of dedicated service to the island and started a Day Care Centre at a time when women were getting more involved in the work force and needed care for their children. He said that it was fitting to have one stamp to celebrate Alecia Ballin's voluntary work and as an entrepreneur on the island. He closed by thanking the Soroptimist members for being partners with the Government.
Postmaster General Jacqueline Niles congratulated the Soroptimist Club on the 25th Anniversary and for their hard work in the community during that time. She pointed out that although the postal service is not used as much as previously because of other means of communication, stamps are still used a lot on parcels, for official documents and for collectors. She invited the Soroptimist members to assist in the sale and promotion of the stamps and urged other organizations to suggest some creative themes.
President of the Club, Carmencita Davis said she was very happy the stamps were produced and especially for the stamp of Alecia as it was originally her idea to have a stamp in honour of the anniversary. She urged all to buy the stamps and thus advertise the Soroptimists and Anguilla.
The Deputy Postmaster General, Marcia Richardson, said that Anguilla's stamps have received international acclaim since the 1970s. At that time they were a major source of revenue for the government. She described how the art production of a stamp is approved by the Post Office's agent in London, John Lister, and then by the Anguilla Stamp Advisory Committee. After approval by the Palace in London the stamps are then printed, so the process takes some time to achieve. She said that the Post Office is particularly pleased and honoured that the first stamp issue for 2007 is the Soroptimist issue and grateful that the Philatelic Bureau can play a part in the 25th Anniversary. She then unveiled the two stamps that were being released and invited persons to purchase the first day covers or the individual stamps.
In attendance in addition to the speakers, were Alex Ballin, daughter of Alecia, Judy Ruvumna, stepdaughter, many members of the Soroptimist Club, friends of Alecia and post office officials.
Christmas Fair at Government House attracts many people.
ANGUILLA-The Annual Christmas Fair organized by the Soroptimist Club was enjoyed and supported by many persons and held in the beautiful grounds of Government House.
The Soroptimists organized lunch, drinks, games and several stalls. There were many stalls with attractive crafts, art, pottery, toys, gifts, plants, cakes, books and other items. Organizations with booths included the Anguilla Craft Group, the Anguilla Beautification Club, the Devonish Gallery, individual artists and others. Santa was there and many children spent time telling him what they want for Christmas and posing for photographs. Christmas music supplied by Bob Rieman filled the air and Christmas songs by Catherine Rieman put everyone in a happy Christmas mood.
The Soroptimist raffle was won by Ms J Lloyd who won a trip for two to Puerto Rico on American Eagle, the second prize of a Pebble Phone was won by Rhona Richardson and the third prize of a DVD player was won by Barbara Oberly who donated it to the Soroptimist Day Care Centre. The Craft raffle of the nativity scene made with knitted figures was won by Ingrid Estrada, Judy Bardfield won the hand painted tray and third prize went to Judy Carmichael who won a hand sewn flower.
Funds raised by the Soroptimists will be used for the Day Care Centre and other projects of the Club.
President of the Club, Carmencita Davis said she was proud and happy to hand over the benches on behalf of the members of the Club for the use of the public. She pledged the Club's voluntary service to the community and said there will be other projects this year to celebrate the Club's 25th Anniversary.
Airport Manager, Remington Lake thanked the members for the donation saying that he hopes the travelling public will appreciate the benches and treat them carefully. He suggested that other non-government organizations should take similar action to assist the community and said that he hopes all the Soroptimist projects will be beneficial to the community.
Bancroft Battick, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure echoed the sentiments of the Airport Manager and thanked the Soroptimists on behalf of the Ministry and the Government. He commended them for their act of kindness as he had noticed there was nowhere to sit in the area and the benches will be particularly good for older persons.
Minister of Infrastructure, Kenneth Harrigan described the occasion as special and said the Government is very appreciative of the positive impact the Soroptimist Club is having on the lives of the people in Anguilla. He mentioned the Day Care Centre, the lessons for Spanish speaking persons and the Reading Workshop held annually. He said that the travelling public and visitors will appreciate the benches and wished the members every success in their service endeavours for the island.
Soroptimist Olive Hodge thanked the persons who spoke and for their appreciation, and also thanked the businesses that have supported the Club during the 25th Anniversary.
Twelve of the original 23 charter members are still active members of the Club and most were able to attend the events. Founder of the club, Ena Woodstock honoured the club with her presence for the weekend. The church service was held at the Emmanuel Methodist Church at West End on Sunday August 13 and was conducted by Rev Lindsay Richardson. That evening a dinner was held at the home of Molly Hodge, the first President of the Club.
Soroptimists and visitors after the church service
The retreat on Monday involved all members of the club and the visiting Soroptimists from Antigua, Barbados, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Jamaica, Marie Galante and St Martin. An address by Candis Niles on the topic "The Role & Challenges of Women in the 21st Century" was followed by a lively discussion on the problems in the community and how these can be addressed. In the afternoon there was a motivational talk by Jerry and Bethany Riskin that inspired members to continue their work. Following this, members discussed future projects and made plans for work in the community in the coming year.
As part of the Retreat on Monday Caribbean President Kathryn Cyrus spoke to members on the importance of retaining members. She noted that members will stay if they are felt valued and if they are welcomed warmly. She suggested clubs must know the potential of each member and use them. She also said that meetings must be planned with an interesting, flexible programme that includes stimulating speakers and also allows for socialization among members. "Let us all wake up with new vigour and go that little extra mile to bring new life into our clubs," the President said. "We can then bring a better quality of life to more of the less fortunate citizens in the many projects out there waiting for us to take on."
President Carmencita Davis with founder of the Anguilla Club Ena Woodstock
The Anniversary Dinner, chaired by Soroptimist Olive Hodge, was held at Koal Keel Restaurant where a delicious dinner was followed by toasts. His Excellency the Governor, Andrew George toasted Her Majesty the Queen saying that it was a special year for her as she celebrated her 80th birthday. Acting Chief Minister, Victor Banks praised the work of the Soroptimist Club over the years noting that members have made a difference on the island, especially for women and children and have contributed to the development of Anguilla. The Hon Deputy Governor, Stanley Reid spoke of the advocacy and action of the Club and the various projects including the Day Care Centre, the Reading Workshop and work with the Senior Citizens. "Many people have noted the visionary ladies and their dedication and commitment," he commented as he toasted the Club.
Soroptimist Brenda Carty toasted the Federation of Great Britain and Ireland and the Federation of Europe and Soroptimist Blondell Rodgiers toasted the guests that included Soroptimists from St Martin, Marie Galante, Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, and St Vincent & the Grenadines, as well as friends and family of members. The Club President Carmencita Davis said that as part of the Anniversary celebrations, benches have been placed in the waving gallery of Wallblake Airport so that persons will be more comfortable when meeting flights and the Club is to adopt an area opposite St Mary's Church in honour of deceased Soroptimists.
Top table at the Anniversary dinner
Awards were presented to Ena Woodstock, the founder of the Anguilla Club, to Molly Hodge the first President of the Anguilla Club, to Irena Bailey who was patron in the early days of the Club and worked very hard and to Alecia Ballin, a hard working member who recently died. A special award to a "Woman in the Community" was given to Mabel Gumbs, a well known and outstanding figure in the Anglican Church and the community who has worked with many groups and associations. A Presidential plaque was presented to the Club by Dr Rona Hodge and visiting clubs presented several gifts.
