THE TOWN HALL

Evening Post, Volume XCVI, Issue 18, 20 July 1918, Page 8

THE TOWN HALL

SATURDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENTS. "So many applications have been received lately for the use of the big Town Hall on Saturday night, all of which have been refused, that I feel called upon to make a public statement as to the attitude adopted," stated the Mayor (Mr. J. P. Luke) to a Post reporter today. "It will be remembered," said Mr. Luke, "that directly early closing of hotels.came into operation I instituted Saturday .night dances for soldiers. These social gatherings quickly became very popular, and are still popular. They have been carried on without any interruption. Each Saturday night up to 400 soldiers on leave from camp and passing through Wellington are entertained, and the organisation now is very complete. I am indeed thankful, and so should the citizens be, for the untiring efforts of a large group of ladies who work to make these entertainments the success they are. If this success is to be continuous the organisation must be continuous j and while I regret the necessity to refuse so many applications, especially those in connection with some patriotic effort, I feel that the soldiers must come before any other entertainment. Therefore I am determined that the Town Hall will be free every Saturday night for the benefit of the men in khaki, who certainly appreciate what is being done for them."