“HOSTESSES, MESDAMES -”

White Ribbon, Volume 19, Issue 4, 1 May 1947, Page 5

“HOSTESSES, MESDAMES -”

Very often the hostesses at the meetings restrict their part to the providing and serving of refreshments, and cleaning away. Some branches prefer not to have afternoon teas, because of the loss of time, others find it a distinct help to elderly members, to those that have a distance to come, to those so busied that attendnfg the meeting means considerable effort and crowded activities lietore and after.

Done efficiently, it should not take up much time, and decidedly it encourages a social atmosphere; but the word “hostess” means more than ‘‘caterer.” Surely it is for the hostess to do fully what she would do when playing the role in her own home. That is, welcome members individually, (even if there is not time for more than a word and smile, the jiersonal touch counts); particularly any attending after absence, perhaps due to illness; to introduce new-comers; to see to the details of preparation, such as placing seats, owning windows, putting out l)ooks. If there is no settled rule as to these matters, either they are done, or partly done, haphazardly, or they fall to the lot of Mrs. Do-all; which always turns out to be a had jiolicy in the not-so-long run; or to the resident, who always has a full-time job. It pays best to have each member take them in her turn, and they fall naturally into the hostess role.

When first 1 joined, forty years ago, there was frequent discussion over the right “eats” to bring More than one president of my early memories used always to stand out for bread and butter or buttered scones, with only one other item, and that plain. The reason was that routine, simple food prevented rivalry in cooking; and any unfair burden on very busy members and those with lean purses. Logical as this was, there were always some thoughtless members who indulged then.selves by more lavish giving, inevitably embarrassing others. Butter rationing has ended that menu, but the main issue still lias to be considered, to keep to simple food, and help the meting by being a complete hostess. Katherine Mercer.