LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH

Minutes of the Meeting of the Queens & Vice Queens British Red Hat Society

held on Saturday 6th March 2010 at Nidd Hall, Harrogate

Last year's notes were discussed and point raised:

Sourcing of discounts at retail outlets/travel concessions the Queen who offered to do this was unable to do this due to personal commitments. However, on discussion, it was agreed that this would be a difficult task to achieve nationally, but each Chapter could source their own discounts locally and on outings etc.

1. Advice as to what is wanted on the website.
2. Pam would like to be informed of events so she could included them on the website. It was agreed that there was no need to include individual Chapter events, as these would be on Chapter’s own website. National events, where other Chapters could join in, should be on the website.
3. All present agreed that it would be a good idea to have the "Trumpeter" on the website.
4. Peri, Queen Periwinkle suggested that a UK map showing locations of chapters be placed on the website. Pauline Crompton, Queen Tripalot of the Ladies of Lakeland said that this would be easy for her to do as she had access to the web pages.

Pauline suggested that her contact details also be placed on our "hand out" cards so that she could field any new enquiries from potential members, keep track of interested ladies and ensure that they are given the correct information i.e joining procedures etc. Pauline could also let them have details of their nearest Chapter for any help and assistance.

Queen Ros of Sluice Women informed the meeting that when they have new members they are given a copy of their Newsletter, as well as other useful information, so at least the member had something in hand to go away with. It was felt that this would also benefit new Chapter Queens, and this could be passed on from the Chapter Queen nearest to the new Chapter rather than floundering.

3. Useful Websites

Red Hat Society: www.redhatsociety.com.

This site is there for us to use and there is a British Forum, which can be accessed by (please excuse the noddy instructions but it is the only way I know how to direct you there):

1. Sign in
2. Select "my account"
3. Select QMB
4. Change category group – Red Hat Society Countries Forum
5. Select "Britain"

British Red Hat webpage: http://www.britishredhatters.ik.com/home.ikml

Queen Tripalot informed the meeting of how disappointed she was with the lack of support from Queens/Vice Queens from the North. Taking into consideration the present financial climate, it was still disappointing. The purpose of having the GOQ’s in the North was to give these members the chance of attending.

Queen Lindy Lou very kindly volunteered to host the 2011 GOQ’s, which will be held at Warner’s in Holme Lacy House, Hereford.

Lady Jingle Bells was disappointed that it was once again at a Warner’s Hotel and after discussions it was agreed that an alternative local B & B be included for those wishing not to use Warner’s but would still like to attend the meeting. Also it was suggested that the invitation be made clear that Queen’s so wishing can attend on their own.

5. 2011 UK Convention –

A discussion followed as to using the services of Sharon, who has a conference/events organiser background, and through her experience can negotiate deals and venues. It was generally felt that the organising Chapter would want to do this for themselves as it would be their opportunity to "shine" and host an event, but perhaps seeking advice from Sharon as and when required.

Discussions also took place as to whether volunteers for conventions should only be Queens who have attended a previous convention. If it was a choice of no convention or for a Queen who has not been to a convention before, it was agreed to accept the services of the volunteer.

Queen Rose of Halifax Red Hatters volunteered to host the 2011 Convention there being no other volunteer Chapters.*

12th Anniversary Celebrations

There are a number of 12^th Anniversary celebrations taking place and these are listed on the British website.

• April 23,24,25 – Torquay Convention organised by Queen Jean/Riviera Royals Chapter

• April 24^th Celebration lunch in Spitalfields

Other gatherings:

• International Red Hatters Funday is in Disneyland Paris 1-3 October, organised by Sue Denny – La Reine de Domfront

• The Red Hat Rebels in Bideford, Devon, will host next Convention. 8-10^th October

• Any orders for the Red Hat Lady rose should be placed as soon as possible.

• Information about Ruby Red Hat sweat pea can be obtained from Lady Boz of Crimson Crumblies.

A reminder to all Red Hatters to visit sharon@redhatladies.co.uk

It was agreed that although The Trumpeter was for the Queens, it was a good read and should be accessible to all.

• Queen Cyndie informed the gathering that their members signed a disclaimer when joining their Chapter. This was after an incident in America where the family of a Red Hat member sued the hostess following an accident, which the hostess had organised. Queen Cyndie is not sure whether this disclaimer would hold up in court but it was worth doing rather than not. Queen Tripalot will circulate details of the waiver used for those interested; worth thinking about.

• Queen Ros of Sluice Women informed the gathering that they had produced a calendar which proved popular with their members, friends and family.

• It was suggested that any important information be forwarded to Queen Tripalot for onward transmission as she has the most up to date directory

• Membership of Chapters was discussed fees etc. Each Chapter works differently.

• The closing of a Chapter to new members was discussed and it was agreed that if possible the potential new member should be advised to contact Queen Tripalot to source another nearby Chapter, which is open.

• Condolences were given to Olive Saunders family in the Isle of Wight.

Addendum