COMPLIMENTARY DINNER

Hutt News, Volume 2, Issue 15, 5 September 1929, Page 9

COMPLIMENTARY DINNER

W.E.A. FUNCTION

MR AND MRS J. S. REID

HONOURED.

The members of the Putaruru branefc of the Worker Educational Association, entertained Mr and Mrs J. S. Reid, piominent workers in the movement, at a complimentary dinner at Simpson's Dining Rooms .on Friday night, prior to their departure for Lower Hutt, where they intend to reside, states the Putarruru Press. . . • After a few brief introductory remarks in which lie welcomed the Hamil- , ton visitors, the chairman called on Mr . Shirley to address the gathering. In doing so, Mr Shirley opened by stating that they all "knew the place called home and the tug it had ' at the heart-strings. He felt that tug because -some 35 years ago he saw the light of day and took his first steps in Putarruru. In later years on the spot where the building -.they were in stood he had played. It gave him great, pleasure to rereturn to his old home town. Mr Shirley went on to say -Lhat the W.E.A. was not Bolshevism, nor was it a political or capitalistic system; but an extension of university education for those,who have been prevented from obtaining such an education. It treated a variety of subjects ,all of which were of use to the farmer and worker. As the W.E.A. brought education to the farmer's door, the speaker appealed to them to support the movement. (Applause). Mr Stephens paid a tribute to the work of Mr and Mrs Reid for the W.E.A., saying that from the .moment that Mr Reid had been elected chairman of the local branch he (the speaker) felt that it would be a success. They also owed a debt of gratituae to Mrs Reid. The toast of "The Health of Mr and Mrs Reid" was proposed by the, chairman, who in doing so said that they deeply appreciated the work done for the organisation by their guests. They would be greatly missed, for where there was work to do they were in the thick of it. They felt that they were losing valued citizens and the gathering, extended to them their best wishes for future success and happiness. Mr Barnett, endorsing the chairman.'a remarks, said that Mr Reid had demonstrated in church life the fact that it was possible to break down certain walls that needed breaking down ,and he had also . enabled them to come to a better understanding of the woi'd freedom, which alone would banish discord. Mr Barnett concluded by quoting a few lines from Kipling's "If." in the belief that Mr and Mrs Reid had lived up to that standard. x |Mr J. R. O. Lochhead referred to the regret that*he felt in saying farewell to Mr and Mrs Reid, who had proved such estimable citizens. The people who lived the longest in Putarruru were the best judges of the merits of those who left from time to time. After quoting a description of the perfect man, Mr Lochhead said that Mr Reid and Mrs Reid were as nearly perfect as it would; be possible to become.' He deeply regretted their departure, and wished them length of days and'the best of health and happiness. Mr J. C. Ross. added a brief tribute, in the course of which he handed the guests an autograph album containing the autographs ©'£ those present. Mr Reid, who. was greeted with applause, stated that he had had a pleasant time in Putaruru, which was unique in giving friendship. They had been made to feel completely at home, and they left Putaaruru' with regret. The remarks of the speakers were deeply appreciated by Mrs Reid .and himself, and they would treasure the album. Mr Reid concluded by thanking Mr Lochhead for his remarks and for the assistance given in the course of their mutual profession. In addition to the autograph album. the guests were handed menu cards, the work of Mr R. G. Hutton, autographed as souvenirs of the occasion. During the evening songs were given by Mesdames Aleorn and Tnlloeh and ■ they were greatly appreciated. Community singing was indulged in, and the singing of the National' Anthem brought a pleasant evening to a close.

Mr. W. Morrison who lias carried on the business of ' 'Singers'' local agent will sever his connection with that company on Saturday, 7th Insfc., and wishes to t>hank his past patrons for their loyal support. Mr. Morrisaa: will "be pleased ta meet any of %3m cHents at his shop on or before ilie date named.