DRINKING AT DANCES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 May 1938, Page 9

DRINKING AT DANCES

(To the Editor.) Sir, —The subject of drinking at dances has been mentioned many times in the local press, and by the press throughout New Zealand, which shows up a state of affairs that really exists. Undoubtedly it has been introduced to the Antipodes by the many tourists from U.S.A a.nd other countries, who bring these customs with them when they visit us. In years gone by, every bit as much romance (of a better kind) existed in the ballrooms and dance halls, and there is no comparison in the present days of “artificial” or “cocktail romance” with that of the former, so why allow it? May I offer a suggestion to the Borough Council, which, I humbly submit, will have the desired effect in stamping out this sort 'b/ evil for all time if carried out —that the council confer with the proprietors of all dance halls, with the object of making it compulsory for all dance committees or private individuals desiring to hire any of the dance halls in Masterton, to lodge the sum of say £lO as a guarantee that no liquor will be brought into the halls, and no one admitted at the door if under the “influence.” If a favourable report is received after the dance or other function has been held, let the deposit be returned to the lessees, but in the event of a transgression against this by-law, by any of the lessees, let their bond of £lO be confiscated, making no distinction between the upper, middle, or lower classes. I venture to say they will soon tire of surrendering their deposit, and will form vigilant committees among themselves to prevent this loss. No doubt someone will say thqt to be deprived of a "spot” will take all the ginger out of a dance; why should it? Young people who join together for an evening’s amusement, with vigorous young bodies and hearts, should not require any other stimulant than supper at half-time.

Something will have to be done to prevent the majority of respectable young people who frequent the dance halls having their enjoyment spoilt by a small section of the "spotting class.” who jazz every dance, regardless of the tempo, and jostle others with their unsteady gait, thereby spoiling other people’s pleasure. I trust that some other citizen may put a suggestion before the council with the above object, for it is in the council’s hands, and if a solution of the problem can be found, every city and town in New Zealand will gladly welcome and adopt it. Thanking you for space. I am, etc., A.W.R. Masterton, May 9.