The 2016 coffee for new and prospective Bedford Women’s Club members will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, in the McAllaster Room, lower level of the Bedford Library. The Bedford Women’s Club is open to women who are Bedford residents interested in fostering social and cultural relationships. BWC members also do fundraising to provide scholarships to Bedford high school seniors and to women who are returning to college as well as charitable donations to local nonprofit organizations.

Established in 1905, the BWC provides an opportunity for newcomers to the area, as well as established residents, to meet socially and pursue their interests. General membership meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of each month from September through May unless otherwise designated. There is usually a guest speaker at the monthly meeting. Annual dues are $35.00.

Aside from membership meetings, there are various interest groups within the club. Activities range from game nights to cooking groups to hiking outings. Some of the groups are small and informal, some are larger, but most groups are open to all club members.

There are groups that play Bunco, Mah Jongg, Bridge, Rummikub, Scrabble, and Poker. These games provide a fun way to get together and socialize, and they are usually accompanied with snacks and refreshments. Those unfamiliar with the games are welcome, as members enjoy expanding their ranks and teaching newcomers.

Food aficionados may like the gourmet food activities that the BWC interest groups offer. There are the Couples Sunday Brunch, Couples Dinner Group and Lunching Out Group. There are several cooking groups within the BWC as well. The hostess plans the menu while other members arrive to do the cooking. After preparing the meal, everyone gets to enjoy the creations. This is a great opportunity to develop new cooking skills and tackle recipes from around the country and the world.

For members who enjoy outdoor and/or competitive activities and sports, there are groups that go bicycling, hiking, kayaking and snowshoeing. Other groups meet to bowl or to play golf or tennis.

There are groups that go on outings to museums and historic sites. Many spur of the moment trips to the theatre or the movies occur throughout the year as well.

For those who enjoy reading, the book group meets monthly to discuss a book, each chosen by the members in June. These lively discussions with friends are a great way to stay current with literature and to stimulate the mind. There are also interest groups for those who have creative hearts such as painting, crocheting, and knitting.

Members are always welcome to start a new group.

To attend the new member coffee on Sept. 1, visit www.bedfordwomensclub.org and click on "Membership," or email BWC at bwcbedfordnh@gmail.com and Sue Martin or Monique Rooney, membership co-chairs, will respond.

– Submitted by
The Bedford Women’s Club