COMING-OF-AGE EVENING

Chronicle (Levin), 23 August 1946, Page 3

COMING-OF-AGE EVENING

— — On a recent evening relatlves and family friends of Mr. and Mrs. r. J Newth, Moutoa, gathered in the Moutoa Hall for the purpose of extending best wishes to their daughter, Shirley; and wishing her "Many happy returns" on the auspicious occasion of her 21st birthday. The hall was artistically decorated and a huge log- flre gave warmth and a homely touch. Mr. and Mrs. Newth welcomed some 150 guests, and for a time Shirley, who wore a beautiful long evening irock of duck-egg blue, made with a shirred voke ahd' sleeves, finished with cording and bows', was busiiy engaged in receiving the felicitations of those present. Mr. F. J. Lucinsky was an efficient master of ceremonies and a very pleasant time was spent inr dancing to music provided by a prdfessional orch.estra. A* novelty competition, mtroducing Mr. ahd"Mrs. Percy Ramsbottom, created much amusement. Competition :'winnei-s were as follows* — Gay Gordons, Mrs. Hait and Mr. C. Trembath; Monte Carlo, Miss Beryl Coley and Mr. Third;"- poison stick, Paul McErlean. A deliglitful supper was provided and at a suitable juncture Mr. and

Mrs. Newth and their aaugnuei were escorted to the stage, when Mr. S. W. Barber proposed the health of Miss Newth. In doing so he referred to her outstanding popularity in the district and,^ in congratulating her on attainmg her majority, paid tribute to her war efforts botli 011 thc land and as a helper with the Moutoa patriotic functions. She was always willing to lend a hand, he said, and her happy nature endeared her to the whole community, all of whom joined in wishing her health and happiness. The toast was honoured in the usual musical manner. Mr. Newth then presented his daughter with a handsome gold symbol to the accompaniment of the singing of "Twenty-one To-day."

After the reading oi numeioim congratulatory telegrams from friends and relatives unable to be present, Miss Newth cut a handsome birtliday cake which was iced by her aunt, Mrs. Hillman, of Levin, following which she thanked those present for the beautiful gifts and good wishes, and her parents for arranging the evening for her. During the evening Mrs. S. W. Barber rendered much appreciated vocal numbers. Dancing was continued until a late hour, when a very pleasant social gatheiing broke up after the host and hostess and their daughter had been placed in the centre of the guests for the singing of "Auld Lang Syne." ■