NORMAL SCHOOL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23293, 10 September 1937, Page 5

NORMAL SCHOOL

ANNUAL REUNION LACK OF YOUNGER MEMBERS The annual reunion of the ex-pupils of the Normal School was held in the Somerset Lounge last night, Mr H. C. Jones presiding. Moving the adoption of the annual report, Mr Jones referred to the deaths of Mrs Conley, Dr Church and Messrs J. Edgar, J. M. Allan, W. Nicolson and H. Morgan. The death of Mrs Peter Stewart, the wife of an ex-pupil, was also reported. “The most important event in the year,” Mr Jones said, “ was the installation of the wireless equipment in the school. It is gratifying to know that half the necessary sum came from straight-out subscriptions. The rest of the money was obtained from a jumble sale.” Mr Jones reported that the equipment was functioning very well indeed, and was proving a great asset in the welfare of the school. Speaking to the motion, Mr W. J. Strong inquired whether any of the younger generation were members of the association. On being informed to the contrary, he said that he had asked the question because the present members could not carry on “ad infinitum’’—there would have to be someone to take over after them. “ I have found it very difficult indeed to get young members to join," Mr Strong said. “It strikes me that they cannot realise what the school has done for them , until about 25 years after they have left.” Mr W. Rutherford spoke a few words on the same subject. The report was adopted. Miss M. Ford, infant mistress at the school, spoke of the benefits that were being derived from the wireless equipment. “The school is fortunate in having such a live Ex-pupils’ Association,” she said. The election of officers resulted as follows; —President, Mr H. C. Jones; vice-presidents—Messrs W. J. Strong, P. Ireland, W. Rutherford, Miss M, Allan: secretary. Mr F. Hay; treasurer, Mr J. H. Oliver; auditor, Mr J. Fleming: committee Messrs J. M'Pherson, J. M‘K. Miller, R. Lamb. J. Hope, J. R. Divers, Mrs Lawson, Misses Ireland, Ford, Wright, and Cable. A short entertainment was provided by the pupils of Signora Stella. The programme was as follows: —Operatic ballad, Mr M'Kinnon Jackson; duet in unison. Misses P. Elstom and J. Holmes: operatic aria, Mr Thomas Kennedy: whistling novelty. Miss June Holmes.