FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19807, 30 November 1927, Page 18

FRIENDLY SOCIETIES.

FORESTERS' NEW BUILDING. NOTES ON LODGE FUNCTIONS. Pictures recently appeared in the press of a fine now building being erected for the Manchester Union of Oddfellows. Arrangements have now been finalised by tlio district executive of the Ancient Order of Foresters for the rebuilding of its mises on the corner of Albert and Wellesley Streets. About two years ago, a block of land adjoining tho building in Wellesley Street was purchased from the Fountain of Friendship Lodge authorities. Plans have now been prepared to extend the building to this extra frontage, which will give a frontage of 104 ft. to both Wellesley and Albert Streets. Hie present structure is to bo rebuilt in brick and reinforced concrete, and other two storeys added to the whole, making a largo square building of six storeys. Provision will bo made for a number of up-to-date shops on the ground floor, while lodge rooms, assembly halls and a large number of modern oflices will occupy tho remainder of the building. It is expected that the alterations will be completed within 18 months, and the Foresters will then be tho proud possessors of one of the most up-to-date Friendly Society buildings in tho Dominion. The Loyal Gisborno Lodge, M.U.1.0.0.F.* held a successful meeting last week, when the initiation ceremony was successfully passed by two candidates, tho officers taking their parts in an impressive manner. Bro. A. W. Lister, N.G., then presented a past officer's collar (q Bro. 11. Sinden, P. 0., as a token of esteem, and for the very able way in which the brother had carried out his duties of oflice. A letter was read from the lodge chemist in regard to present contract, and contrasting it with the scale paid in other towns. A small committee to confer with delegates of other societies was set up to consider this matter. The Star of Eden Lodge, No. 54, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, held its usual fortnightly meeting last week, when initiation of new members and general business was tho order of the evening. As the December quarter night falls on Boxing Day, it was decided to apply for a special dispensation to hold the quarterly meeting a fortnight earlier, and to dispense with tho meeting on December 26. Mention was made of the fact that Bro. J. Pye, P.G., who has been seriously ill in a private hospital, was home again, and although far from well, was making good progress.

An interesting function took placo at the Foresters' Hall, Albert Street, on November 22, when Court Nil Desperandum No. 6495, held its annual reunion of old members. Bro. J. Humphreys, C.R., presided, and the guests included » is * nct Treasurer Bro. Bentley, District fe.B. Bro. Rowlands, District Secretary Bro. Darlow, F.D.C.R.'s Bros. Porter, Watts and Weir, and P.C.R.S. Bros McEntce, Rouse., Phillips, Pearce and Aughton. •\t least three of the old members present had over 50 years of Forestry to their credit, 47 of which had been spent in Court Nil Desperandum. A large number of others had over 30 years of service. Heartiest congratulations were extended to these brethren and the Foresters Fire accorded them. Presentations will be made to the three oldest members, Bros. McEntee, Phillips and Pearce, at the next lodge meeting. A long toast list was honoured, interspersed with a number of very line items by Bros. J. Lonergan, Watts, Coleman, Hargreaves, Aughton, B arne s land S. King. In responding for 1 members, Bro. J. Wen- spoke of the cltfhculties the foundation members had nart to overcome and said that' all honour was due to them for the strong foundations they had so well and truly laid. Bro. Darlow had recovered sufficient.V from his recent serious illness to be present. The function, which was voted by all to be the best to date, closed about 11 p.m. The Loyal Gisborne Lodge, M.U., sustained a severe Joss this month by the death of Bro. W. C. Smith, who had been a member for 19 years. Much sympathy is felt for the widow and two children. The Star of Newmarket, U.A.0.D., continues to advance, as the large muster of members and visitors each lodge night testifies. The members claim that the harmony side of their lodge is unexcelled. From their own ranks they can produce many vocalists and instrumentalists of note. Among the frequent visitors to this lodge are the grand president, Bro. T. Wilson, D.P. Bro. Thursby, P.D.I s. tiros. T. Botterill, Bickerton and Martin. Mention must be made of Bro. Howard, always iti his place, and always ready to oblige with one of the good old time songs. A good time is always assured to all who visit this lodge.

At' a meeting of the Auckland City Tramways Club held last week, the I'airelley Cup and caps were presented to the Ponsonby traffic cricket team. 1 his cup was presented by the genial secretary, whose name it ben.rs, for competition between the various departments connected with the club. This year a harder fight is expected, as more than one department is casting envious eyes toward this trophy. Another interesting" function was the presentation to Bro. S. Drew, the able manager and mainstay of the Association football team. The presentation was made on behalf of the players, who felt that some recognition should be made of the great service Bro. Drew has always so cheerfully rendered.

The first regular meeting of the instituted Rawhiti Lodge, 1.0.0. F., was held at Point Chevalier on November 17, Bro. K. Agnew, N.G., presiding over a good attendance of members. Bro. F. 8. New bold, D.D.G.M., was admitted as an associate member. Arrangements for the use of the Sailing Club's hall were left in the hands of a small committee to report to the next meeting. Arrangements were made to affiliate with A.U.F.S .("dical Institute. Information is to be sought with reference to the possibility of obtaining a resident medical officer for the district.' C.P. Bro. Dennis, of Waitemata Encampment \o. 5. attended, and put before the members the. advantages obtained by third degree members joining the encampment. Bro. Agnew, N.G., donated 3gns. to tho lodge, and Bro. W. J. Billinghurst: four pedestals for use in the lodge room. Both brothers were heartily thanked. This new lodge has made a good start and has all the signs of a great future