RED CROSS SOCIETY

Press, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25735, 22 February 1949, Page 2

RED CROSS SOCIETY

The members of the Waipara subcentre of the Red Cross Society met in the Waipara Hall recently. Mrs Uren presided and there was a fair attendance. It was reported that during the holidays two letters had been received from the sub-branch’s sponsored child in France acknowledging two parcels. The Christchurch centre wrote stating that a parcel had been received from the branch, the result of a clothes drive held by members. The sum of £l5 was allotted to the “Food for Britain” fund and £l5 towards the buying of clothes for overseas distribution. It was decided to hold the annual meeting on Thursday. February 24. A quantity of made up clothing was handed in for dispatch to Christchurch. BABIES CAN FLOAT A Sir,—“A six-months-old baby. Arlene Atwater, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, has learned to float.” This, from an American paper, is apparently news; but it is one ot the easiest things for babies to accomplish. What a wonderful thing it would be if mothers would only teach their babies to float before they walk. Swimming instructors have the greatest difficulty in teaching pupils to float. Once this fear of sinking is overcome the rest is easy.— Yours, etc.. „ , SWIMMER. February 14, 1949. [When asked to comment on this letter a Christchurch doctor said that the idea was quite feasible. She added that she would not, however, attempt it with a baby under six months but that a baby which could sit. and would be able to control its muscles sufficiently, would probably be capable of being taught.]

Miss Lucibel Harris has been appointed district nurse on Stewart Island in place of Mrs G. Swain, who has retired after many years of service. Miss Harris, a registered nurse with midwifery qualifications, has had 10 years’ nursing experience, including two years on Niue Island as district nurse and child welfare nurse She will be married in March, but will continue her career after her wedding.