TEMPERANCE UNION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 56, Issue 275, 2 September 1936, Page 6

TEMPERANCE UNION.

ASHBURTON WOMEN’S BRANCH. DECISIONS AT MONTHLY MEETING. The Ashburton branch of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union held its monthly meeting in the Baring Square Schoolroom yesterday afternoon, when Mrs A. Mcßean (vice-presi-dent) occupied the chair and conducted the devotional exercises. Highly satisfactory replies were received from the Prime Minister (the Hon. M. J. Savage), the Hons. H. G. R. Mason, W. E. Parry, R. Semple, and Mr H. E. Herring, M.P., in acknowledging copies of resolutions forwarded by the Union. Their courteous replies were warmly appreciated, and the hope expressed that the reforms so long'desired may soon be an accomplished fact. The Rev. J. R. Blanchard (president of the New Zealand Alliance, Wellington) wrote drawing attention to tho fiftieth, anniversary of the movement, and the jubilee celebrations to be undertaken before the close of 1936, and appealed to the members of the Union for their hearty co-operation in extending the work in the interests'of humanity. Only through an educated community can the various problems confronting humanity be successfully dealt with, he said. The letter was received and held over for consideration next month.

Mrs W. H. Robinson (president of the South Canterbury District Union) submitted a vpry interesting report of the executive meeting in Timaru, outlining the business transacted. Mrs D. S. Osborne reported on the annual visit paid to the Timvald branch on August 12, which proved most satisfactory and enjoyable. An account of a visit to the Borough Rest Room was given, which was gratifying to all concerned, and an appeal was made for papers, magazines, flowers, etc., which would add to tho comfort and attractiveness of the place. Mr F. Steel (treasurer of the local branch of the New Zealand Alliance) was present, and spoke on what was being done at thfe present time in promoting the welfare of the town and district, and bespoke the co-operation of the Union, which was readily agreed to. Miss E. J. Watt (superintendent _of the “Peace” department) gave an interesting account of what the League of Nations was striving to accomplish in tho face of unprecedented difficulties. Further arrangements were made for the District Convention in Christchurch on September 15 and 16.. The secretary was instructed to write to Mr E. Buchanan, an honorary member, congratulating him on his recovery to health and return home, and letters of cheer and sympathy were directed to bo sent to sick members. Reference was made to “Franchise Day” to be honoured at the September meeting, and as time had gone, further reference was held over. Several helpful suggestions about raising funds were considered and, approved. Tea was served and good business done at the bring and buy stall 1 . With a, hearty vote of thanks to> all who had contributed to the success of the gathering, the meeting closed with the Benediction.