My dear CADS,
I hope this finds you all well. Looking back at last year’s newsletter for April, I regaled you with tales of my excesses on Kings Day – being the oldest swinger in town on the canal boats of Amsterdam. This year, I am happy to report that there was still evidence of excess – serving Baby Guinnesses to my already sozzled guests on my patio long after the sun had set – and constant sunshine all day – wonderful! The Dutch do throw a great party each year – it really was a lot of fun!
April Lunch
Our April lunch was another belter! – nearly 30 CADS and guests, listened to an excellent presentation from Leigh Turner, an ex-UK ambassador and successful novelist and author. On the day, the BBC had called Leigh and asked him to appear on the One o’clock News, but he turned them down in favour of CADS – what a star!
Leigh’s presentation on ‘Lessons in Diplomacy’ was funny, informative and extremely thought-provoking especially with the emphasis on Putin’s war on Ukraine. Leigh was such a hit that we have already secured his presentation services for next Spring.
Leigh has recently published a new book called ‘Lessons in Diplomacy’, a sort of ‘how to’ guide on politics, power and parties. Many of us bought copies of the book at the lunch and if any of you would like a copy, please contact Louise Hunter. Louise is a fellow member of CADS, who owns a bookstore and can get you a copy.
Request for Speakers!
The CADS calendar is almost full for the year (see below), but we do have two opportunities for speaking engagements – the June dinner (Thursday 19th June) and the
November lunch (Friday 7th November). Perhaps you have a business opportunity you would like to promote? Would you like to share your passion with CADS? Maybe you know of a great speaker that CADS members would love to hear? Please have a think and get back to me. NB. We do not pay for speakers but give them a free lunch and a bottle of something nice – this month’s speaker got a bottle of Ukrainian Vodka – very apt!
Calendar of events – 2025
Many of you are super busy and are often ‘surprised’ with the announcement of events and then cannot make it, so please put ALL these dates in your diary NOW!
(Please note that due to the availability of the venue, occasionally we are not meeting on the 3rd Friday of the month).
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with CADS. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events.
