Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 45, September 2001
By Colleen Reddy
The 70th birthday celebration of the Paeroa Branch of the Country Womens Institute was held on 21 August 2000, with the theme of "Lemon and Paeroa". Approximately seventy-five people attended the function.
The cake, iced by Moira Keeys, was beautifully decorated with a fresh kowhai flower, the emblem of the Paeroa Institute. There were three candles on the cake, representing the past, present and future. These were lit by past member, Betty Howard and fanned out by Nancy Hucker. The cake was cut by Mona Townshend, who was President in 1949. Mrs Townshend spoke about some of the highlights of her busy life with CWI in those days.
Entertainment was provided by L & P Rockers, Val and Jeff Alley, who gave a spectacular exhibition of the dance. Member, Helen Nuttall then entertained with a short, amusing modelling of undergarments of yesteryear. This was followed by a bracket of songs from light-hearted comic opera, sung by two of the Mellow Tones singers, Anne Glogowski and Elaine Jones, accompanied by Raewyn Leonhart on piano. All of the entertainment was thoroughly enjoyed by those present.
Thames Hauraki Plains District Federation President, Noelene Kayes, wished the Paeroa Branch a very Happy Birthday and pinned a Silver Bar on the banner for the occasion. At the end of the day's celebrations, all guests were given a bookmark and a can of L&P.