COBDEN NOTES

Greymouth Evening Star, 16 August 1920, Page 3

COBDEN NOTES

(Own Correspondent.)

INFLUENZA. In common with many other communities, Cobden has not escaped the prevailing epidemic. Over sixty pupils are recorded as absent from school, many adults also being indisposed. A number of severe cases have occurred, necessitating medical attention. A POPULAR TEACHER. . Last Friday evening about .300 wellwishers and friends of Miss A, O’Brian, both old and young, spent a very pleasant time in the ' Cobden School Gymnasium. Mr C. Millar presided, and a varied programme of solos, etc., was provided. Prior to supper being served, the Chairman announced the purpose of their meeting together—to honour Miss O’Brian, who had resigned her position at the school to take up similar duties at Lyttelton school. Many of those present at the time regretted the likelihood of losing so capable a teacher as Miss O’Brian, and their gathering together that night was, he was pleased to, say, not to farewell their guest, who had decided to remain with them, but to recognise her valued services by making her a presentation of a handsome dress-case. Mrs Pound, on behalf of tlie mothers, voiced their pleasure at the news that Miss O’Brian was to continue with them. Her good influence and capabilities asm teacher were much appreciated. In conclusion, the hope was expressed that her health would remain good and the children continue to progress under her ra r e. (Applause). After the singing of “For She’s a Jolly Good Felow,” Miss O’Brian expressed her sincere thanks for their kindness and consideration. She loved the children and, in her opinion, there was nothing so sad as to break the sp'rit of a little child. Words failed her to adequately give expression to her feelings. She deemed it their duty not to blind the children with false views, but to open their eyes to the great opportunities that

lay before them—spiritually, mentally and physically—to understand the National .Anthem as a prayer for the protection of right and freedom for the British nation and its subjects; to inculcate in the children a love of the country in which they lived and loyalty to it in time of need. Miss O’Brian also gave a brief resume of her travels in other lands during last Christmas vacation, stressing the respect shown to her not only because of her profession, but because she v as a Britisher. Pastimes were further indulged in, those present subsequently dispersing to them respective homes. TOWN BOARD. Movements in connection with this new constitution —the Cobden Town Board — are making headway stage by stage. It is understood that a poll will be taken for election of five members to attend to the civic affairs of Cobden. It is anticipated that them bill will bo a pretty full one for some time to come. The matter of adjustment of liabilities with the Grey County

Council w:*l necessarily be the first business of the newly-elected body. The question of collecting revenue on the capital or unimproved value is sure to be a knotty one, also the difference between the County valuation and prevent values of properties for purposes of future taxation.