MENTAL HOSPITAL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22373, 21 September 1934, Page 4

MENTAL HOSPITAL

“TALKIE” PLANT INSTALLED MR CUMMING'S WORK EULOGISED An effort commenced some time ago with the object of having a “ talkie f plant installed at the Mental „ Hospital at Seacliff was brought to a successful conclusion yesterday afternoon when the official opening ceremony was held at the institution, when it was announced that arrangements had been made for a regular supply of suitable films. Invitations had been sent out to those who had contributed towards the cost of the plant and others immediately interested, and in response there was a good representation from the city to take part in the opening proceedings. Welcoming the guests, the medical superintendent (Dr H. D. Hayes) thanked those who by their financial assistance had made the installation possible, and assured them of the great benefit and joy that would be derived by the patients both of Orokouui Home and Seacliff by the screening of the new films which would come to hand week by week. Dr Hayes emphasised the excellent work that Mr F. G. Gumming had put into the scheme and also thanked the Patients and Prisoners’ Aid Society for standing behind Mr Gumming in the appeal, for its generous donation, and for acting as banker. He said that he thought that it was only fitting that Mr J. Loudon, the chairman for the society’s committee, should have the honour of opening the plant. Before proceeding with the opening Dr Hayes called on Mr F. G. dimming, “ the patients’ friend,” to speak. Mr Gumming, who had been responsible for the collecting of the bulk of the. funds, expressed thanks to the contributors, mentioning how hearty the response had been and the encouragement he had received from the donors, and stressed the importance of the pictures in providing regular entertainment for the patients. Mr J. Loudon, in opening the planr, offered the heartiest congratulations of the Patients and ! Prisoners’ Aid Society on the satisfactory completion of the installation. He referred to the suitability of the hall where the pictures were being shown, and also thanked those who had contributed, and Mr Gumming for the praiseworthy effort he had made. He wished the venture every success and expressed tlie hope that it would be a source of extreme enjoyment and entertainment for the patients. Afternoon /tea was then dispensed by the staff, after which Mr A. A. Paane, in a happy speech, returned thanks on behalf of the visitors who hod gathered and who had been so delightfully entertained by Dr Hayes and the members of the staff. Before proceeding homewards the visitors were escorted round the grounds and service blocks, and thus an exccclingly pleasant visit was brought to a close.