Queen’s Gathering Nov. 12, 2008

We had a very brief gathering lasting just a little over and hour with 14 Queen’s and 1 Vice Queen plus 6 lovely chapterettes attending.
 Many items were discussed for our Queen’s to report back to our own chapters.  That is the reason for our Queen’s gathering’s, just to discuss anything that is of interest or concern.  We are not a hierarchy, putting ourselves above any other, we have no rules, no meetings, we are a dis-organization of lovely Red Hat Ladies just wanting to have Fun, Friendship, Freedom & Fulfillment!.  Isn’t that why we joined the Red Hat society?

 Of a major concern naturally is the S.O.S. we have all received from Hatquarters to help them out of a financial crunch.  They are simply asking each of us to search our hearts, do we want this dis-organization to continue and for us to enjoy our own part in supporting the R.H.S. by each of us purchasing a New Supporting Membership of $20.00 (this was the old Purple Perks card).  Keep in mind this is a personal choice it is not a demand it is a request.  Several Queen’s question where our money goes, asking Queen Mum Sandy to see if she can obtain information.  We will have more on this at our Jan. Gathering.

 The issue of those people wanting to sell their products to Red Hatters.
As long as they are not using the Red Hat Society Logo or Name to advertise, there is no problem.

 Decades of Christmas is a Dec. Event hosted by 3 chapters; Biddies & Tarts, Summer Wine and Cinnamon Sisters.  Tickets are $25.00 and $20.00 gift bag to accompany each chapter.  After much discussion in which all thought it too much money for us to take a gift to each of our events as sometimes only one Red Hatter will attend from a Chapter.  So a decision was made that a Chapter Hosting an Event should charge the amount for an event by including the price of prizes or gifts they give.  Therefore, solving the problem. Queen Shirley said she would have to meet with the other two queens the next afternoon to make drastic changes.

Queen Mum Sandy did remind all that when we go to a Convergence, we still will take the basket requested as this is an entirely different venue.
 Kalispell Convergence is Sept. 11-13, 2009 Host Hotel, Red Lion is now sold out and they are referring Red Hatters to Hampton Inn. 1-406-755-5900 They have 40 rooms left. Their Red Hat Rate is $109.00 + 7% bed tax.
They are also quite a distance from the Host Hotel (1mile & 1 block west).  We find this rather amazing since the Convergence itself has not opened for registration. 
Other Hotels:  Kalispell Grand Hotel 1-800-858 7422 (kalispell grand.com)
   Travel Lodge 1-800-551-2409  Their Red Hat Rate is $45.00 a night + 7% bed tax for one room, two queen beds. (this is within walking distance to host hotel)
   The Blue and White Motel (sorry no other info)
   LaQuinta Hotel (sorry no other info)


 Questions about the Strawberry Tea hosted by Prairie Angels, Queen Lorraine to send out notice to all queens when we have the information.

 Isabel reporting the Wild Prairie Roses are hosting a Birthday Fashion Show and Lunch on Sat. April 25, 2009 - 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM to be held in the basement of the Keg (old Sven Ericksons) Tickets are $20.00 and there is room for 200 ladies.
Tickets will be available at a later date.  Check the website often.

 As reported by Queen Sandy of The Country Angels will be holding “Healthy Heart & Strong Bones” Feb. 7, 2009 in Claresholm.  More information will be available so check the website.  Note of interest: it is also the date of the big Trade Fair in Claresholm.

 Queen Julia of Klassy Crimson Hatters made a grand entrance shooting a gun, dressed as a cowgirl on a hobbyhorse with a Wanted Poster to announce their chapter Outing in Cardston Aug. 8, 2009.  Lot’s of grub a parade and don’t come dressed up! More on this exciting event later! Keep checking the website.

    Next Gathering is Jan. 14, 2009 .We are looking for another "more private" place to gather.  It's difficult having everyone in the cafeteria listening to our gripes, hopes and plans!!  If it get's a little "heated" at times, we are simply women that get a little excited but not showing our best side to the public of being Red Hat Ladies !!

If anyone knows of a place, (we cannot afford rent)...please contact Queen Mum Sandy at chfmtsandy at aol dotcom OR 403-653-2228  All Queens will be grateful!!


 This is the picture of all the Red Hatters that Matter at this gathering!

Perhaps more Queens will attend next time after seeing all these smiling faces!!