BUSINESS GIRLS’ CLUB.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 300, 18 November 1940, Page 9

BUSINESS GIRLS’ CLUB.

The annual banquet of the Business Girls’ Club was held for the first time this year in the club’s own rooms on Saturday evening. Members of the committee prepared and served the meal and between 40 and 50 attended. Shoulder sprays which had been made by Miss R. Eliott were presented to Mrs M. H. Oram (president), who presided, and Mrs A. E. Mansfol'd (patroness), who was also present, with Mesdamcs W. T. Royal, W. Day, A. Cooksley and Miss M. Grant (vicepresidents). There was a short toast list opening with “The King” and then “The Men of the Forces.” Proposing this toast, Mrs Oram said words could not express the admiration aroused throughout the world for the wonderful feats being performed by the men in all the services. She made special reference to the Maori Battalion, the club having undertaken to send gifts and letters to a number of the men. She said it was gratifying that they drew the admiration of all with whom they came i.n contact. Miss D. Newth (lion, secretary), proposing the toast of “The Patroness. President and Vice-presidents,” said the dub had been fortunate in its officers, who had always proved ready to lend a willing hand. She testified to her own'enjoyment in the club’s activities and concluded by conveying the season’s greetings from the members Replying to the toast, Mrs Mansford said it was gratifying to find the club continuing its activities as in peace time. She commended the efforts of the girls on behalf of tlie Maori Battalion, and paid tribute to the president and vice-presidents and thanked the girls on behalf of the Mayor for the practical help given at all times to every worthy cause. She also wished the members a Merry Christmas witb_ the h‘ope of peace early in the New Lear. Mrs Oram added her appreciation and offered congratulations on the delightful meal. _ It was good to find the members holding together despite a difficult year, she said, and the many calls made upon , them. She offered seasonal greetings with the hope that the next gathering would be for peace celebrations. ' Regret was expressed at Miss Newth’s announcement that 6he had been compelled to relinquish the secretarial duties, which she lias carried out with signal success for a number of years, and gratitude to Miss V. Royal who has generously agreed to carry out the duties pro tern. Choruses, including the “Maori Battalion” song, were entered into with zest, Miss Williams presiding at the piano, a.nd aftei “Auld Lang Syne” the evening concluded with a picture party at the Regent Theatre. Committee members responsible for the success of the function comprised Misses D. Newth, V. Royal. J. Ladyman. G. Bates N. Ernstrom, C. Body. E. Hayes and A. Tvcrslake.