SUCCESSFUL YEAR

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 63, 17 March 1943, Page 6

SUCCESSFUL YEAR

PATEA WOMEN’S INSTITUTE (0.C.) Patea, March 13. A wide field of activity was reviewed at the annual meeting of the Patea Women’s Institute yesterday, when Mrs. H. A. Peacocke presided over a good attendance. The report stated that in face of difficult and anxious times, the membership had been maintained, monthly programmes had been kept up to standard and the financial position of the institute was improved. The “Golden Thread” for the year consisted of talks, on the wives of great men, among these being Mesdames Samuel Marsden, Chiang Kai Shek, Gandhi. Winston Churchill, Roosevelt, Curie. Sarah Churchill, and Dame Enid Lyons. In addition talks were given on life in Port Moresby before the Japanese invasion, Chinese ways and customs of 29 years ago and to-day, presentation at Court and the Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Demonstrations on the making of mocassins, soft toys, novelties from old felt hats and the preserving of apples with sulphur were also given. Owing to members being engaged in patriotic work, the arts and crafts and drama activities were not renewed. . The (JKorts of members *•# connection wit? patriotic work included a scrap meial drive (which realised £65). providing, packing and despatching Patea’s quota of unaddressed parcels for soldiers serving overseas. making of camouflage nets, and the collection of three tons of waste paper. The spinning and knitting circle continues to do good work on behalf of the Merchant Navy and since last April 1401 b. of wool has been spun by members and 120 garments, including pull-overs, sea-boot •lockings, mittins, scarves, and balada vas have been knitted and sent •way.

Increased interest in the various competitions was evinced during the year, the entries for best bloom, home industries, and knitting being very encouraging. Social activities included the provision of afternoon tea for the returned soldiers and re-