THE COUNTRY.

Press, Volume LIX, Issue 17944, 12 December 1923, Page 3

THE COUNTRY.

JOTTINGS FOR FARMERS.

An error was made in totalling up thi- points for the Cough Cup at the Courtenav A. and P. Show. The corrected totals are: A. W. Adams. S. points. 1; W. J. .Jenkins. S3 points, 2.

{ CULVERDEN. ! A concert was given in the Amun Hall on Sat unlay last, in aid of the hall furnishings, by the Bristol Concert Party, Christchureh. The funds will benefit to the extent of £22 Os 3d. Songs were given by Mrs R. A. Home, JNli.ss Corrie Aslin. Messrs F. Morrison. H. Hohbs, and R. Turner; ■ duets hv Messrs F. Morrison and H. ' Hobbs. and Mrs Home and Mr Hobbs. ; Mr M'. Betlicll thanked the performers. | Dan'ing was then indulged in. ; Culverden played Rotherham on the latter's ground on Saturday, and were : beaten hv 27 runs. Rotherham made j 74 and Culverden 47. Smith and Pen--1 ros-? bowled best for Culverden, and [ Moar and Graham for Rotherham. Culverden B team met Waiau South on the home ground, and plaved a drawn game. Culverden made 1,1 for seven wickets, and Waiau 177. lor Culverden, Murray 00, Walls not out 40, and ' for ' "Waiau," L. Rutherford FO. S. Rutherford 24, Herdman 4(>. and Crosslev 1(5. batted best. The best bowlers fc Culverden were Hartnell, j and Murray: and for Waiau South, I S. Rutherford and Crosslev. I The first round of the Duncan ' Rutherford 'Memorial Shield is now ; finished, and the second round wdl commence early in February. Waiau ■ Bush are leading, with Rotherham j and Culverden next in order.

COST. At a meeting of the Sports Club then; were present:—Messrs B. Croft (president-), Gordon Fergus (secretary), i. II Early, W. Thompson, R. Kennedy, S. "Wood, G. Dick, AY. and F. Burgess, R, Campbell, R. Henderson, J. Bcattic. and J. Struthers. Trophies received for special prizes wo re allotted, and it was agreed to accept Mr Mawson's offer of &.j for tlie refreshment stand. It was proposed bv Mr F. 11. Early, seconded liv Mr R. Campbell, that Mr J. 'Struthers be appointed judge in Mr R. Gardner's place, as the latter would be unable to officiate. It was proposed by Mr Struthers, seconded by Mr S. Wood, and carried, that Mr W. Burgess be appointed starter. Mr B. Croft said he anticipated a larger crowd than forntcrJv t ms the entries were more mimeroua than they had ever been. lie was especially pleased with the trophies, and these, with the good prizes offered, would conduce to good sporu. All that was needed was a fine day.

LEITHFIELD. Ac the monthly meeting of the School Committee, there were present Messrs IT- May, T. James. D. \v. Palmer, and W. Jamieson. It was decided that the annual breaking-up and prize-giving take place on December 20th, "the school ..to re-assemble on January 29th. Final arrangements were made for the dance to be held 011 Boxing Night.

RANGIORA. On Monday night the members of the Ladies' Physical' Culture Class called on Mr W. R. Pike and presented him ■with a leather despatch case in recognition Of his services as instructor, a position he has filled during the last three years. The presentation was made by Miss I. Bevington, secretary of the class, who expressed gratitude for the interest Mr Pike had taken in the class. In accepting the gift, Mr Pike said it gave him greatpleasure to know that his services were appreciated. Quite a number of townspeople took part in the Hickson Healing Mission, several of whom report that they have been greatly benefited in healtn, and there are three or four who definitely state that they have been completely cured of ailments from which they have suffered for years. Amongst the latter is Mr T, W." McCormick, who has suffered for over 12 years with rheumatism and was quite a cripple, only being able to get abo.ut with the aid of a stick. Mr McCormick yesterday said he was almost completely cured and was so overjoyed that he thought it only right that the fact should be made known. He can now walk about without a stick, walk up a stair, a thing he has not been able to do for years. Other cases reported are that of a married woman, who has been laid up with a hole in her side which would not heal. She states she is quite cured and was never better in her life. Another case is that of a young girl whose eyes were • crossed.- They are now almost perfectly straight.

HORORATA. A very enjoyable concert, organised by Miss E. jNelson in aid of the Presbyterian Church, was held in the hall on Saturday night. There was a large and appreciative audience, every available seat being; occupied. The proceeds amounted to £l6. The chair was taken bv Mr Ford (Mayor of Riccarton) in the unavoidable absence of the llev. Bates owing to the serious illness of Mrs Bates. The Christclmrch performers were motored out by Mr For'd and Mr Archibald. The programme was as follows: —Dance, Misses Betty and Ina Bruce to bagpipe music played by Mr Jock Walton; song, Miss Lilian Archibald; recitation, Master -uert Goodland; song, Miss Olga Waeked; recitation, Miss L. Cowan; song, Mr Woodward ; dance, Miss I. Bruce ; song, Miss C. Reid; song, Mrs Wliitworth ; action song, infant class (Sunday school); song, Mr Whitworth; song (comic), Miss Bruce, The accompanists were Mis Whitworth and Miss E. 2S"elson.

A social evening and dance was held at the .school on Monday night to provide funds for the purpose of procuring toys for the children's Christmas tree. There was a g:.od attendance, with a result that over £5 was taken. The headmaster has now nearlv £6 in hand, which is very satisfactory. The prizes for the euchre tournament were won by Mrs J. "Wilson (presented by Mrs G. G'. Derrett and Mr P. Holmes (presented by Mrs D. Critchley). The booby prizes went to Mrs McGregor and Mr H. Oliver. Mrs T. 13. Jones's prize for a lucky spot dance was won by Mr L. Mooar and Mrs J. McHugh. Vocal items were given by Mrs J. Spence, Messrs R. Felton and 15.l 5 . Holmes. Music was supplied bv Mrs W. Critchley and the Misses E. Nelson and H. Maffey. Those present were: Mr and Mrs W. S. Pratt, Mr and Mrs F. S. Barrell. Mr and Mrs 11. Felton, Mr and Mrs A. Nettleton, Mr and Mrs Kellaway, Mr and Mrs J. Wilson, Mr and Mrs F. Symons, Mr and Mrs H. Oliver, Mr and" Mrs L. Mooar, Mr and Mrs A. McKenzie, Mesdames G. C. Derrett, T. Whitty, J. McHugh, McGregor, P. Phillips, W'. Critchley, G. Chapman, Misses Tui Eldridge, Merle Wright, Edna McGill, D. Symons, V. Wilson, E. Nelson, H. Maffey, Patterson, Clare Wright, Gladys Kellaway, Messrs S. Wright-, H. Boyle. I). Bruce, W. Patterson, W. Gray, R. McArthur, Sharpe, D. Tomlins, J. Creighton, A. Oliver, S. Mooar, G. Symons, L. Parker, S. Parker, and many others. The Hororata Mothers' Union held their annual meeting in St. John's Church. There was a good attendance. At the service four members were admitted. The annual report was adopted. The balance-sheet showed a credit of £1 12s lOd. The money-box was opened and contained £2 6s Gd, which will be sent to j>t-. Saviour's Orphanage. A presentation of a fountain pen was made to Mrs Pearson in appreciation of her work as secretary for a number of vears.

SPRINGFIELD. T::o programme of events for tho coming sports meeting of the Springfield Amateur Athletic Association on Saturday shows n well-fuled list of competitors. Providing the weather is fair, a record attendance is anticipated.

The children of the Springfield Public School are once more the holders of the Tawera County School Shield, which was decided- by relay race between the Russell's Flat, Kowai Bush, and Springfield School teams at Kowai Bush.. The proficiency examination is to be held io-dav.

At the monthly meeting of the School Committee, held on Monday, it was decided to close the school for the summer vacation on Thursday, December 20th, in compliance with the Board's request. In the absence of Mr W. Donovan, Mr J. Kelly acted as chairman. The headmaster reported an attendance of 45.7, and a roll number of 50.

LEESTON. The Ellesmere Brass Band gave a sacred concert at Leeston on Sunday evening. The following programme was played:—March, , "The Holy Land"; selection, 11 Sacred Gems"; march, ''The Jovful Christian"; overture, "The Glory"; hymns, "All Hail the Power" and ''Nearer My God to Thee," " Old Hundredth," "Christians, Awake"; and the very appropriate finale to a good concert, "'Abide With Me."

Mr W. A. Nelson, who is leaving the district, was the recTpTent of a toKen of esteem from the members of the Leeston Methodist Church on Sunday evening. Eulogistic references to the assistance he had given as a member of the choir, were made by MY L. W. Hewitt (choirmaster), and Rev. A. 0. Harris.

Anniversary services In connexion with the Leeston Methodist Sunday School were held on Sunday, and were well attended. The church was prettily decorated with flowers, and special iiymiis were sung by the children, who had been trained by tiie Superintendent. Mr L. W. Hewitt. Mr J. Voss, of Christchureh, conducted both services. On Monday night the annual social and prize-giving took place in fife Wesley Hall.

SOUTHBRIDGK Constable Moriartv, wlio has been away on sick leave, and who was in hospital for a short period, returned to his home at Southbnuge yesterday.

RAKAIA. Farmers were loud in their praises of the willingness with which the railway authorities met the convenience of the fat stock buyers in the matter of the provision of trucks on Monday. Expedition was used' by railway people and drovers, so that fifteen fullyloaded trucks were got away to the works by the five o'clock train on the day of the sale.

On Monday Mr McNeil, Inspector of Schools, examined standard six pupils for certificates of proficiency at the Rakaia school. This school was used as a centre for districts round about. The numbers presented were as follows: Ralraia 7, Convent 5, Ohertsey 5, Rokeby 4, Mead 2, Pendarves 2, Overdale 2, and Doric 1. Some of the minor subjects remained to be taken next day. The results will" not be known for a few days.

Mr and. Mrs W. M. Skevington and child, of Banlcside, Rakaia, sailed from Auckland by the s.s. Kemuera, for London. Mr Skevington has gone Home as the representative of the well-known firm of Messrs P. and D. Duncan, in connexion with their farm implements at the forthcoming Exhibition at Wemblev.

The following rinks have been chosen to represent the Rakaia Bowling Club in their match against Methven on the Methven green on Saturday:—Rink 1: A. Holmes (skip),. J. Stubbs, J. Allen, ■ A. S. Henderson. Kink 2: D. Newman (skip), T. Blackley, W. Black, G. S. Hardy. Rink 3: T. W. Wright (skip), J. Milne, W. E. Judkins, and W. Glasse. Rink 4: 0. Featherstone (skip), A. Weaver, W. Palmer, J. Y. Cameron. Emergencies* B. McNamara, H. Rapley, J. Bell, G. Shannon.

Tl:e removal of so many trees from the Domain Board's River Plantation lias had some undesirable effects. This plantation acts as a splendid breakwind for the Ralcaia township, sheltering many of the houses from the dust of the nor'-westers. A great deal more wind now makes itself apparent and this must increase as more trees are removed. The heavy traffic of the timber conveying, the road leading to the back entrance , of the Domain lias had the effect of cutting up this road very badly, so that it is now inches deep in fine dust. When traffic passes this dust blows in a cloud across the bowling green adjoining. An effort is being made to secure increased interest in the Ralcaia Tennis Club and to get the membfers to attend practice more frequently. At present the bowling green receives greater' patronage than the tennis courts, and in the opinion of some, this should not be. The Tennis Club has a full programme of inter-club matches before it, having to play Hororata- and Tinwald before Christmas, both matches to be played 011 the opponents' courts. These contests should stimulate the life of the club. When the refuse leaves and branches in a blue-gum plantation that had been cut down were being burnt last week, a startled Californian quail flew out as the fire approached. A hurried investigation showed a nest containing 110 fewer than eighteen eggs.

MOUNT SOM2RS. The local Rifle Club wound up its season 011 Friday with a most successful ball, which was held in the Memorial Hall. There was a good attendance of visitors from the near districts and also from the Methven liific" Club. The most important event of the evening .was the presentation of trophies won during the season, and Captain R. B. Neill journeyed from Barossa to present them. In the absence of the captain of the Rifle Club, Mf J. Gorrie. Mr P. 11. Jones (vice-captain) presided and introduced Captain Neill, who made a very effective speech and gave good advice to the young men of the district with regard to the importance of being able to use a rifle. The Rifle Club is very fortunate in having Captain Neill as president, and lie is giving a substantial trophy to be shot for next season. The following is the list of trophy winners and the donors: —Mr P. H. Jones' cash prize for first possible, Les Hood; Mr J. McElhinney's .for most bulls scored during season in trophy shoots, J. Sim; Mr F. Peters for best aggregate for season, X. Hood. Mr F. Peters for best aggregate for youth under IS, J. Hicks; Mr A. J. Millichamp's, E. Gifkins; Mrs Whelham's rose bowl, J. Gorrie; Mr Gorrie's trophy, Brunton; Clubs' trophy (ladies' bracelet), Tcssy Morgan, shot for by G. Morgan: Mr P. 11. Jones's trophy, Lcs Hood; Mr F. Peter's trophy, 11. Gifkins. After the presentation of trophies the grand march was held and was led by the secretary, Mr F. Gifkins and Mrs Gifkins, sixty couples taking part. The music for the dance was supplied by Mrs Woods and Mr Powell, extras being played by Mrs Hazeldine and Mr Aldridge. All excellent supper was laid in the library and was in the hands of Mrs Gorrie and Mrs Gifkins, who worked very hard to make the ball a success.

November was an exceptionally dry month this year, the rainfall being 135 points with. 420 tor the same month last yeas,

PENDARVES. Although tho envlv crops which are now being reaped have a fairly good appearance, the later crops must fool the ciioets of the dry spell, and at present the prospects for the main harvest aro very disappointing. Gras?>seed lias ripened quickly in the nor'west winds, and stripping is just beginning. Tho crops appear heavy, and tho quality good. Hie iriencts of Mrs P. Doig will be pleased to learn that s?;o iias been able to return to her heme from Oakluirst Private Hospital. Miss Iv. Hampton' lias returned from her visit to Cheviot.

Miss Eva' Clark (Christchureh) has been staying with friends in tho district.

Miss R. Hallidny has returned from a pleasant holiday spent at Waimnte, where she was the guest of Mrs Clay.

Mrs ". Lambie, of "Inverell," is at present visiting friends in Christchurch.

CHERTSEY. A suggestion lias been made that a sports meeting should, be held shortly as a gala day for tho school children, it is interesting to note that the re-cently-formed Cycling and Athletic Club is merely a revival of a similar club existing here years ago. At a sports liieeting held just twenty-five years ago, tho late Mr Peter Doig, sen., acted as judge, while Mr F. Ironside, a member of the present Sports Club, was the winner of a race. The Christy Minstrels, who raised about £l5O tor various deserving funds during tho season, held a conversazione in the Hall on Friday evening. There was a very large attendance, and as a conversazione is a somewhat unusual form of entertainment in this district, tho evening proved a. great success. Ail inviting supper had been arranged on long tables in the Hall, .and while it was in progress tho following programme was carried out: — Toast, "The King," proposed by the chairman, Mr W. Wilkinson; song, Mr P. McCann; toast, "Local Bodies," proposed by Mr A. Garland and responded to by Messrs R. Croy (member of Domain Board), and Mr P. McCann, secretary School Committee; song, "Come to the Fair," Mr Guy Strutiiers; toast*, "Kindred Sports," proposed by Mr P'! Hanrahan and responded to by Messrs W. Holland, Cycle Club, A. Cameron, Athletic Club, and H. Wilkinson, Tennis Club; duet, "Would You Believe It," Messrs Ironside and J. Watt; song, ''The Lilac Tree," Mrs W. Anderson; toast, "Tho Ladies," proposed by Mr J. Watt and responded to by Miss Iv. "Wilkinson; song, "Yes, We Have No Bananas," Mr W. Bolton; toast, "The Minstrels," proposed bv Mr A. Bruce and responded to by Mr A. Garland; song, "Sailing," Mr F. Ironside; song, "Absent," W. Halli-

clay; toast, "The Visitors,'' proposed by F. Ironside and replied to by Messrs K. Croy and C. Hampton ; song, Mrs P. Hanrahan; toast, "The Pianist," proposed by Mr W. Holland and responded to by Mr W. Rankin, who expressed a wish that a hearty vote of thanks might be given to Misses Rosina Hallidav and A. Rankin for the help they had given him throughout the season. The singing of "God Save the King" concluded this part of the programme, and a dance followed, for which Mr VV. Rankin provided the music.

On Saturday afternoon Mr and Mrs M. Kelly celebrated the sixth birthday of their little daughter Ethel by giving a children's party. Quite a large number of young people gathered and as the weather was perfect, a most enjoyable time was spent in games. Amoriprst the young visitors were: Misses Eileen Doig, Madge Cameron, Tui and Ngairo Smart, Sarah and Lydia. Douglas, Katie Dnnstan, Grade'and Elsie Atkins, Gracie Ivellee, Eileen Kemp, and Ethel, Ida and Dorothy Kelly, also Masters Owen Dunstan, T. Cronin, and Colin Kemp.