ST. COLUMBA CLUB

Grey River Argus, 19 May 1938, Page 5

ST. COLUMBA CLUB

ANNUAL MEETING. Mr. J. P. Gilbert (President), occupied the chair at the annual meeting of the St. Columba Club last evening when there were present about 20 members. Prior to the commencement of business, motions of condolence with the relatives of the late Desmond Fogarty, Patrick Carroll and Michael Keating were carried, members standing in silence. The President, in his following report, stated: I have the honour to report a very successful year for the 1 season 1937-38. Although there was not as much inter-club activity as in former years, the club took part in some interesting debates, chief among which was its effort to defeat the United Club in a debate lor the Kent Honours Board. Although unsuccessful in this attempt, the members gave a good account of themselves. In reviewing the season, it is pleasing to note the increased interest shown by the younger members, and for this, the club has, to a great extent, to thank Rev. Brother Anthony whose zeal for members in our junior club has resulted in the infusion of new enthusiasm into the old branch.

It is with real regret that we record his departure from Greymouth. Our thanks go also to the clergy and the Marist Brothers, upon whose support we are so dependent. Members will recall with sadness the passing of fellow members in Michael Keating, Patrick Carroll and Desmond Fogar ty, and to the parents and relatives goes the heartfelt sympathy of the club. It is a privilege to be able to note that this year again the club was fully represented at the annual conference and competitions of Catholic clubs held at Invercargill, where our representatives performed with distinction, and gave ample evidence that in no form of club activity is the St. Columba Club a back number. I desire to thank all who gave their support to the club during the past year, in particular our executive officers. In conclusion, let me solicit similar support in the coming year, in order that the club may be assurea of another successful season.

The report was adopted, as was the balance sheet showing a small credit balance.

The President expressed his thanks to members and the Executive for the support they had given him during the year, and expressed the hope that his successor would receive full support from members. The following officers were elected - President: Mr. P. D. Clancy. Spiritual Director: Rev. Father F. Kelly (re-elected). Hon. 'Vice President: Rev. Bro. Oswald.

Vice Presidents: Messrs F. Morel W. J. Butler and J. Phillips. Secretary: Mr. T. Keating. Assistant Secretary: Mr. J. Kelly

Treasurer: Mr. j. I. Mcllroy (re elected).

Auditor: Mr. M. G. Kelly. Executive: Messrs C. R. McGinley. T. O’Farrell, L. P. Phillips, J. Keating, J. P. Gilbert and J. Raleigh. Club Selectors: R«v. Father Kelly and Mr. M. G. Kelly.

Delegates to Debating Club’s League: Messrs Clancy and T. Keating.

Messrs A. Hansby and W. G. Butler were elected members.

It was decided to hold weekly meetings on Wednesday evenings. Subscriptions were fixed at 7s 6d (seniors) and 2s 6d (juniors under 18).

It was decided to hold a Question Box at the next meeting and to arrange a debate with St. Mary’s Club, Hokitika, for the following Wednesday at Greymouth, St. Columba Club to arrange the subject and St. Mary’s to select the side. Messrs L. Phillips, Mcllroy, Kelly and Butler, were appointed a Subcommittee to draw up a syllabus for the coming year. A lengthy discussion took place on proposals for the coming year, members expressing opinions as to moves which would place the Club on a more progressive footing. Rev. Father J. Holohan addressed the meeting, pointing out the necessity for increased membership and more serious study of the social problems of the day.