Soroptimist International of Lodi hosts installation of officers

Soroptimist International of Lodi recently installed new officers for the 2019-20 year. Taking the helm are Elizabeth Kass and Deb Miller, co-presidents; Laura Gardner, vice president; Rosemary Gamblin, recording secretary; Judy King, corresponding secretary; Sue Goad, Treasurer; and Laverne Burns and Terri van Herk, one- and two-year directors.

Using a clever script prepared by Bev Lacy, the board was installed by Germaine Burke on June 27. The night’s theme was “Growing Our Soroptimist Garden.”

Elizabeth Kass quoted a Japanese saying, “If the flower is to be beautiful, it must be cultivated.” She went on to say, “Growing a garden takes dedication but the rewards are so worth it. We must prepare the soil to grow the flowers and recruit more gardeners. We will help women and girls to thrive and overcome the weeds that may get in their way.”

Soroptimist International works to improve the lives of women and girls.

Each officer was read the responsibilities of their office and each swore to uphold them. They were presented with flowers that represented their various duties, and in placing them together in a vase, they made a lovely and complete bouquet, using talents from each officer (flower).

A short business meeting followed with cupcakes and cookies for dessert. The club goes dark in the summer and will resume in September.

Upcoming events for the new club year will include “Dream It, Be It,” a program conducted on a Saturday that provides girls with the guidance, training and resources that will prepare them for career success. The club will also present several $1,000 awards to deserving local women to help them improve their education, skills and employment prospects.

For information on how to join or donate, visit