KUMARA NOTES

Grey River Argus, 4 July 1944, Page 2

KUMARA NOTES

[Our Own Correspondent]. A very large attendance of citizens assembled at the Memorial Hall on Friday evening when a complimentary euchre and dance was tendered to servicemen just returned from overseas. The euchre tournament was exceptionally well patronised. The first prize was won by Mr. A. G. Wood, and the second bv Mastei' Sam Stewart. Then followed a very successful dance, the music being supplied. by Mr. and Mrs. W. J. McNabb (piano and violin), and Mr. G. Elley (drums). Messrs Geo. Hunt and C. Haines were M’s.C. An extra was given by Mr. Colin Goad. Opportunity was taken by the Mayor, Mr. W. H. G. Stewart, to extend a cordial welcome to Staff Sergeant W. H. McNabb and Drivers J. Lalor and Leu Pascoe, who were present. Apologies were received from Sergeant C. Thorn and Gunner D. Sinclair, who had left for Christchurch. The Mayor also extended a welcome to Mrs. R. Cunningham and her sister, Miss Holmes, who recently arrived from England. The Mayor felt it a privilege and pleasure to be associated with Patriotic and Red Cross work and was pleased that his first public speech since his election was at a welcome home to local soldiers. Although Kumara was only a small town it had responded very well in providing servicemen and funds for Patriotic and Red Cross work. He was sure that all would join in wishing the servicemen and the ladies a prosperous and happy future in civilian life.

Mr. James Brown (President), was pleased to represent the Kumara RS.A. in welcoming the soldiers back home, and also the ladies who had come to this country, which he trusted they would like equally as well as England. To the servicemen he said that the JLS.A. was always willing and anxious to help in any way to rehabilitate returned men. Mr. Fred R.udkin, on behalf of the citizens, handed a rift to the soldiers, each of whom briefly returned thanks and said t.hev were rlad tc> be home amain. The large audience then sang “For Thev Are Jollv Good Fellows.” An excellent supper was served by the ladies’ committee.