Where did July go? All that sunshine, then all that rain as soon as we had a hosepipe ban. Back in 1946, the Czech writer George Mikes commented that “Other countries have climates… the English have weather”, and it seems truer every year; we never know what to expect.
One thing you can expect, though, is our next Drop-in, on Thursday 7 August at the usual time of 10.00am. There’s an extra treat this time, as there will be a display of pictures showing the work of the Photography Group. Many of you will have seen the work of Neil Barrett and the group, at the Wolds Day earlier this year or at the Arts Centre, and we are sure you will agree that their work is well worth celebrating.
We were lucky with the weather for our second Outdoor Day, when members had the chance to meet for a morning of games on West Green. All who attended had a lively and enjoyable time; it’s good to meet up socially outside our usual groups. We are also planning to hold another indoor games session before too long: watch this space for more details! There was a fine day for Pockfest last Saturday too; thank you to all friends and members who came to say hello at the u3a gazebo.
Are you aware of ACCORD? This is the group of u3a branches in the East Riding. Under the group agreement, if another local branch offers a group or activity you can’t find in the P&D, you can attend their meetings if there is a vacancy. There are details and links to all the other branches on our website, Useful Links, so do have a look there if you have an interest which we don’t currently cater for. Or, of course, start a group yourself – it’s easier than you think!
As an example of ACCORD activity, Caves u3a, which covers North and South Cave and Elloughton, is starting a Singing group to sing along with their guitar club members, and are inviting new singers from all over the area. There is a free taster session on Tuesday, 2nd September. If you’re interested, go to Caves u3a website, Groups, and click on the Co-ordinator link to send your name, your email address and/or your phone number. David, the choirmaster, will get back to you and will be able to answer any questions.
On Saturday, August 16th, Market Weighton Patient Participation Group are inviting the local community to find out more about local services that can support your health and well-being. Many groups and services will be represented, (including ourselves, of course!). There will be information and activities available for all ages, and it promises to be a very worthwhile day. The venue is St. John’s Church – that’s the Methodist Church near the Giant Bradley statue – and the times are 11.00am until 3.00pm.
August always seems like an in-between month – starting in full summer and leading on to the beginnings of autumn by the time September comes. (Remember when it seemed to last forever, when we were little?) Many groups have a summer hiatus in August, giving a break to those who are going away and those who have extra family commitments in the school holidays: if you’re travelling, take care, and we look forward to hearing all about it when you’re back. Wherever you are, remember to raise a glass or a teacup to Yorkshire Day today, the first of the month, whether you are Yorkshire born and bred or a mere incomer like me – I’ve been here since 1972, but am still called a soft Southerner when my husband wants to insult me!
Enjoy your summer, and even if your formal group meetings are ‘on hold’, do keep in touch with your friends – it’s what u3a is about.
Rosemary Waugh (Vice Chair)
