WOMEN'S INSTITUTES

Chronicle (Levin), 8 May 1947, Page 2

WOMEN'S INSTITUTES

OTAKI'S 16th BIRTHDAY A very pleasant time was spent by members and friends at the Otaki Women's Institutes 16th birthday party rectntly. The Anglican Hall was nicely decorated by the ladies of the committee. The president, Mrs. Walter Taylor, welcomed all present, inciuding representatives from other institutes the Women's Division and Pfimket Society. Arrangements for a bus to convey members to the annual district council meeting, to be held at Manakau, Were discussed. An invitation to attend the annual plunket meeting was given"; unfortunately, for the same day, Wednesday, April 30. The business disposed of, the entertainment commenced with a musical quiz Mrs. Bartholomew being the performer at the piano. The kindly co-operation and help so willingly given at all times by Mrs. Bartholomew is greatly appreciated. Community singing followed and was greatly enjoyed. |Mrs. Hewitson gave two recitations ! in her usual spirited , fashion, which were received with applause. Miss Pat Fogden, a born comedienne, • also entertained with recitations. An oppo'rtunity was then taken by the president to present some outstanding members of the retiring committee with dainty shoulder sprays, at the same time thanking them for their interest ,and work. Mrs. Powell retiring president of the executive committee, in a ki'ndly speech thanked the Otaki W.I. for its help during her term of oflice, especially for its cooperation in the drama festival whenever called upon. She also said she wodld always have happy memories of her work and associations with the Otaki W.I. The next item was the singing of the institute chbir under the baton of Mr. Townrow. "W-ateif-lilies" and "John Peel" were items which the audience greatly appreciated After a delicious afterrioon tea, songs were rendered by Otaki's favourite "male trio, Messrs. James Townrow and Lumley. The ceremony of 'cutting the birthday cake was carried out by past and present .presidents of the district institutes, Women's Div-

ision and Plunket Society. Birthday wislg.es and flowers were presented by visiting members. The cake was donated by Mrs. Kirk. - "Hark, Hark, the Lark" and "Who will o'er the Downs so Free" were the concluding items by the institute choir, after which the National Anthem was sung, ' closing a very happy occasion.