NORTH OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23685, 17 December 1938, Page 22

NORTH OTAGO AND PROVINCIAL SECTION

THE OAMARU DISTRICT

NEWS OF THE DAY (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT)

HOSPITAL LOAN INJUSTICE OF RATING SYSTEM BURDEN ON COUNTY RATEPAYERS HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION OVERTAXED Advice was received from the Waitaki Hospital Board at the Waitaki County Council meeting yesterday morning, that it w.as the board's intention to apply to the Local Government Loans Board. for sanction to raise £BO,OOO for hospital extensions purposes.—The county clerk (Mr R. K. Gardiner) reported that the Government gave a subsidy, and on £40.000 the county's contribution annually would be £I6OO over a term of 25 years. The Counties' Association had endeavoured to remove the injustice of the present hospital rating system. The borough, with a population of 7500, would contribute at the rate of 2s Id a head, but the county, with a nopulation of 10,700, would have to contribute 3s a head. Hospital Handicapped The chairman (Mr James Rodman), stated that for some considerable time the hospital had been handicapped so far as space was concerned. The inspector of hospitals and technical officers had visited the Oamaru Hospital in connection with extensions and equipment. The board had carried out extensions some years ago, and it was then hoped that that would be sufficient for come considerable time. He could say definitely that the accommodation of the hospital was overtaxed. It came as a bombshell that the board was told by the authorities that this extensive scheme would have to be adopted. They were faced with a very serious position. The health authorities had issued a mandate, and the Hospital Board had to take these extensions into consideration. It was proposed to erect two more wards, which would give separate medical and surgical wards for men and women. The number of operations was increasing, and X-ray and operating theatres were required. A Difficult Position It was a very difficult position for some of them, said Mr Rodman, who were members of the board and the council. Every hospital board in the Dominion was faced with big extension programmes. They had asked for as long a term as possible for the loan, so as to lighten the burden on the ratepayers. It might be wise to discuss the matter in conference with the Oamaru Borough Council. "Most Extravagant" Cr Taylor said they recognised that increased accommodation was necessary at the hospital, but this seemed to be a most extravagant programme, with £3300 for a doctor's residence and £I4OO for the board's office. He did not know how the people were going to foot the bill. Mr Rodman said the board had been asked to erect a medical superintendent's residence three years ago, but this had been deferred on account of expense in excavations. The site on the hill was an admirable one, but excavation costs for extensions were very heavy indeed. Cr Meek: It depends on how it is done. If it is done the same as at reserve C, the wards will never be there. Mr Rodman commented that it had been a very nasty pill for some of them, and he had felt very unhappy at times about the matter. The demands on hospital space and equipment were going ahead by leaps and bounds. He could remember when there was a staff of eight nurses; now there were 40, and with extra wards they required extra nurses, nurses' quarters, porters, and domestic staff. The hospital was really cramped, and demands on space had grown beyond the idea of any member. On the motion of Cr Meek, it was agreed to meet the Oamaru Borough Council in conference on January 10.

OAMARU CHURCHES TO-MORROWS SERVICES The subject for the Christian Science service, to be held in the Douglas Social Credit Hall to-morrow, will be "Is the Universe, including Man, Evolved by Atomic Force?" The services commence at 10 a.m. In the Columba Presbyterian Church to-morrow the Rev. W. Lawson Marsh will speak on "The Glory of Bethlehem " at the morning worship, and on "The Meaning of Christmas" at the evening service. At the latter service the choir will render selections from "The Messiah" and some Christmas carols. The induction and ordination of elders will take place at the close of the morning worship. The session meets at 10.30 a.m. In St. Luke's Church to-morrow Archdeacon Russell will celebrate holy communion at 8, and be there for evensong at 6.30. He will take the Sunday school anniversary service at Enfield at 11, and officiate at Totara at 2.30. The Rev. B. O. Plumb will celebrate holy communion at St. Luke's at 11, and take evensong at Newborough at 6.30. Mr H. C. Lightwood will take the Newborough service at 11. The Rev. John M. McKenzie will preach his farewell services in the St. Paul's Presbyterian Church tomorrow. His subjects will be, at 11 a.m., "The Right Perspective," and at 6.30. " The Final Victory." At Eveline at 6.30 p.m. the Rev. lan Dixon will speak on " The Fullness of the Times." At the close of the service the Sunday school prizes will be presented. " Glad Tidings" is the subject chosen by the Rev. William B. Pickering for his 11 a.m. service tomorrow. At 2.30 the Sunday school prize-giving will be held, and at 6.30 there will be special Christmas music of carols and solos from Handel's " The Messiah."

Presentation to Popular Minister A congregational social and presentation to the Rev. J. M. and Mrs McKenzie and family will be held in the St. Paul's Hall on Monday. All members and friends are cordially invited.

FARMING OPERATIONS HELD UP THUNDERSTORMS DELAY WORK OAMARU MARKET REPORT Weather v The weather this week has been again broken and showery, with some heavy thunderstorms in the back country districts. In consequence, agricultural work and shearing has been held up. If the present weather conditions continue, much damage will be done to the hay crop, which is a very prolific one. Fine weather is badly needed for the growing crops, which should be good, provided warm weather prevails from now on. Oats If anything, this market Is slightly weaker, with very little demand. Some orders are still coming forward from poultry feeders. As far as Oamaru is concerned, most of the better quality oats have been cleaned up. Barley There Is very little movement In this market. It is anticipated that the Internal Marketing Board will shortly announce the price for the coming year for South Australian feed barley. Potatoes Old season's potatoes are almost finished, and new potatoes are coming on to the market in increasing quantities at a much lower price. Seeds As far as the wholesale trade is concerned, the market is practically lifeless as is generally the case on the approach of the holiday season. Owing to unfavourable weather conditions, the merchants report small deliveries of farm Beeds. Merchants' stocks appear to be light, and, with the anticipation of a big harvest of most seeds in the coming season, merchants are working hand to mouth in anticipation of lower prices. The market for subterranean clover is firmer. This clover has done exceptionally well in North Otago this season, and there promises to be a fair sowing of the seed during the early part of the New Year.

KINEMA ENTERTAINMENTS MAJESTIC THEATRE " Rosalie " The name Nelson Eddy, when associated with any picture, immediately stamps the film as one of the very highest standard, and "Rosalie," the latest M.-G.-M. musical starring the famous singer, is a worthy successor to the great Nelson Eddy triumphs of the past. The film will continue its season at the Majestic Theatre to-day and to-night. Eleanor Powell, who has earned a place among the great dancers in motion picture production, is costarred with Eddy, and the combination is a happy one. Ilona Massey, a beautiful newcomer to Hollywood from Europe, makes her American debut in the film, and her performance speaks well for her future popularity. She proves herself a delightful comedienne as the confidant of Princess Rosalie, and she also sings admirably. All the music of the piece is tuneful and finely created, the numbers being composed by Cole Porter. Nelson Eddy sings the theme song, " Rosalie," "Who Knows?" and "In the Still of the Night" as solos. He also sings two other fine songs with the "West Point" football team. Miss Powell gives an excellent exhibition of tapping in "I've a Strange New Rhythm in My Heart." The ballet numbers staged by Albertina Rasch are in the best traditions of that great ballet mistress, and the set for "Kingdom of Romanza" Is the biggest of the year. Plans are at the Bristola and the Theatre.

OPERA HOUSE "The Gladiator"— To-day In this film, which opens to-day and shows tp-night and Monday at the Opera House, Joe E. Brown, the cavemouthed comedian, makes his greatest appearance, A human guinea pig, unwittingly turned into a super-man by the scientific magic of a hen-pecked college professor, Mr Brown's role is like nothing he has ever before portrayed. It is different, gloriously exciting, and hilariously funny. Other members of the cast are June Travis, Robert Kent, Lucien Littlefleld, Ethel Wales, Dickie Moore, and " Man Mountain" Dean. "The Devil's Party" Highlighting the adventurous life of five pals who emerge from one of the toughest districts in New York, Universal's " The Devil's Party " comes to the Opera House to-night and shows again on Monday, with Victor McLaglen starring in one of his famous heman roles. Adapted for the screen from a novel by Borden Chase, this picture depicts the enduring friendships and fierce loyalties that develop among children who grow up together in a great city. One of these youths in manhood becomes a wealthy and ruthless night club proprietor, a part played by the brawny Victor McLaglen Two others become policemen, and still another a priest. The only girl they ever welcomed as a boon companion and member of their "gang" develops into a beautiful night club singer. Romance, ambition, and even the shadow of crime engulf one or another of them as they fight for a place and prestige in the world, but in the end the enduring ties of friendship bind them together. Beautiful Beatrice Roberts. Paul Kelly. William Gargan, Frank Jenks. John Gallaudet, Edward Gargan, and Joe Downing have important roles. Special Christmas Matinee For the children to-day a special matinee has been arranged. Joe Brown in "The Gladiator" will be screened along with a variety of short subjects that cannot possibly be beaten. Flash Gordon", (episode 12), Charlie Chase comedy, colour- cartoon, sports thrill, news, etc., will provide excellent children's fare. In addition, Father Christmas will be at the Opera House to give each boy and girl a chocolate novelty free Parents can be assured that this matinee is admirably suited for the children.

No permanent placements were made bv the Oamaru State Placement Service during the week. Temporary employment was secured for a man in a foundry 12 turnip-thinners, a shearer, and an assistant cook. Six men were found casual work.

CRICKET NOTES A GRADE COMPETITION SCHOOL IN FRONT St. Kevin's v. Oamaru B The North Otago A Grade competition continues to be interesting, with only a few points separating the three leading teams. School heads the list with 16 points, followed by Union 15J and Albion 14, but the other teams are well down the list, Oamaru A having 6 points, Oamaru B 3i, and St. Kevin's 1. The weather was ideal for cricket on Saturday, and the St. Kevin's boys made their best score of the season, compiling 222 against Oamaru B. The wicket was easy, and O'Brien, the opening batsman, played confidently for 35 runs, mostly coming from straight drives. I. Fallon contributed a useful 28, including a 6, and McKone was severe on the cowling to knock up 57 in good style. McKone's tally included 10 4's, scoring four of them off one over from S. Dick, nnd he was finally clean bowled by L. Watson. O'Kane also struck form for 25, and from the tail-enders, P. Fallon added 21 and Bennett 28. The side was out for 222. L. Watson was easily the most successful of the Oamaru bowlers, finishing up with five wickets for 37, and J. Wats.m and Dick secured two wickets apiece at a cost of 20.5 and 21 respectively. Bee took three smart catches in the slips. Oamaru B iost Dick and Uttley early for a total of 28, Bennett beating Uttley with a ball that swung in from the leg. Nicholson followed soon after, but J. Watson and Turvey played good cricket to add runs freely, the former being run out at 21, and Turvey, who compiled 32 by bright strokes, fell a victim to a good catch by Fox off Norris. Paape went at 14, and at the call of lime Oamaru B had lost seven wickets for 106 runs. Bennett kept a good length for 11 overs, including four maidens, and was rewarded with two wickets. School v. Union

The opening batsmen, Geddes and Blair, were dismissed cheaply by the School attack, but Kinder made a welcome stand for his side, scoring quickly to reach 40 before putting his leg in front to Houghton. Houghton also accounted for Borrows at 25, and though Tonkin collared the bowling for a spell to reach 36 before Robertson beat him, a rot set in, and the side was out for 146. Houghton bowled well to bag four wickets for 30 runs, and Robertson and Cameron secured two wickets each. School started better than their opponents, and though Smith was run out at 10, Robertson and Maclntyre carried the total to 52 before a break in the partnership was effected through McCallum stumping Robertson at 17. Maclntyre was the next to go by a fine catch by Papps at cover, with his score at 31. Houghton played steadily toaamass 27, but there was no one to stay with him. and at stumps he was not out, with the side's tally at 103 for eight wickets. Blair and Tonkin shared the School wickets, but Maddigan bowled 10 overs consistently for only 17 runs. Oamaru A v. Albion Cahill and Monteath gabe Oamaru A a good start against Albion, the board reading 39 before Cahill went leg-be-fore at 23. Kelk joined Monteath, and the pair hoisted the century, taking the tally to 134 before Kelk was wen caught by Geddes in the long field eft Davey. He made 56 in good style. Monteath was not long in with Zimmermann before Robinson lifted his off bail with a ball that came in from the leg, his score being 77, made by correct cricket. Zimmermann also punished the bowling to the tune of 61, scoring rapidly with well-timed shots all round the wicket. However, he failed to pull one from Brooker, which got him on the pads. Jones contributed a handy 23, but the remaining batsmen failed to get going, and the innings closed with the score at 283. Robinson finished with the bowling figures of five for 49, and Brooker was credited with three for 55. Albion made a poor showing against the bowling of Wilson, Zimmermann, and Cahill. Brooker went without scoring, and the only two to reach double figures were Davey (14) and Taylor (25), and at stumps seven wickets were down for 72 runs. Zimmermann's bowline had the batsmen in trouble throughout, and he was rewarded with five wickets. * . PERSONAL Special reference was made, at the monthly meeting of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, regarding the death of one of the society's valued members, Miss Grenfell, the committee standing as a mark of respect to such a splendid worker. Madame Stella Rubenstein is visiting Oamaru over the week-end, and will be the guest of Mr and Mrs.H. Burton, Till street. Reference was made by the chairman (Mr James Rodman) at the Waitaki County Council meeting yesterday, to the passing of Mr A. A. McWilliam, clerk and engineer to the Waihemo County Council and clerk to the Hampden Borough Council, and a motion of sympathy with the relatives was passed in the customary manner. Referring to the splendid work done by Miss C. F. Miller, on the staff of the Oamaru South School, Mr H. C. Jeffery (chairman), at the annual "break-up" of the school, said that they were suffering a loss in Miss Miller's transfer. He also congratulated Misses B. Chisholm and A. J. Low, probationary teachers, who had been promoted. Mr J. Calder, who had been indisposed for some time, is now making satisfactory progress towards recovery. Mr E. Howell left on Saturday by the north "express for Wellington. Mr J. T. Weir, late of Cottrell's, Ltd., arrived back in Oamaru yesterday after spending a holiday in Wanganul and a trip down the West Coast. Visitors to the Town New Club Hotel.—Miss J. L. Nichols (Lower Hutt), Mr E. Brown (Dunedni). Mr T. Reid (Christchurch), Mr A. Horn (Levin), Mr and Mrs J. H. Chapman (Ross). Mr R. Murie (Wellington). Mr D. Katz, Mr Peter Orr-Low (Auckland), Mr and Mr s T. S. Jackson, Mr A. B. Todd (Wanganui). Queen's Hotel.—Mr Vistmood. Mr Riley. Mr Wood. Mr Barker, Mr H. Temnleton, Mr j. McKnight, Mr and Mrs Lungston, Mr Hayman (Christchurch), Mr Lee (Queenstown). Mr Mcintosh. Mr N. Cherry, Mr Lord. Mr Gunyon (Dunedin), Mr Asher, Mr Summers (Nelson), Mr J. Macaulay. Mr Forsvth (Temuka). Mr Travis (Waimate). Mr E. E. Barns (London). Old Identities The Mayor and Mayoress (Mr and Mrs L. J. K. Familton) have issued invitations to early settlers of Oamaru, of 75 years and over, to attend a gathering in the Queen's Hotel lounge on Thursday next. Included in those invited is Mrs Agnes Irving, formerly of Oamaru. but now residing at Palmerston North. Mrs Irving is 92 years of age, and in accepting the invitation has signified her intention of flying by aeroplane to Dunedin, where she is to be met by her son, Mr John Irving, and brought to Oamaru by car.

BREAKING AND ENTERING MOTOR MECHANIC CHARGED £32 WORTH OF GOODS STOLEN Thomas Robert George Cox, a motor mechanic, of Herbert, appeared before Mr H. K. Edie, J.P.. at the Oamaru Magistrate's Court yesterday morning on a charge of breaking and entering Messrs Dewar and McKenzie's garage. Coquet street, Oamaru, on October 15. and stealing a car radio set and stand, a set of rriagneto spanners, and a set of die nuts, to a total value of £32 lis 6d. Mr H. J. Grater appeared for the accused. Sergeant Murray, appearing for the police, stated that Cox was arrested last Thursday night, and all the stolen property was recovered intact. Cox was remanded to appear before ! the Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, December 20, and bail was fixed at self £3O and one surety of £3O. FRIENDLY SOCIETIES LOYAL ALFRED LODGE. 1.0.0. F. Following the Christmas tree party for the children of members on Monday night, the quarterly meeting of the Loyal Alfred Lodge was held, N.G. Bro. T. R. Beattie presiding. The business of major importance was the ballot for the Grand Lodge representative at the Grand Lodge session in Invercargill next March. The result of this will be announced later when the returns are completed. The secretary, Bro. J. Branthwaite, reported on the result of the circulars despatched to members regarding the Social Security Act, and stated that the returns showed that a goofi many members desired to continue to receive lodge benefits until the Act be- • came operative. The committee was authorised to devise ways and means of keeping in contact with those who I had not completed their forms. Bro. J. Wray, who was in charge of the Christmas tree arrangements, was thanked for the time and work he and 1 his committee had put into the matter, ', and he also thanked the members and children who had contributed to the entertainment part of evening. After ! seasonal greetings had been extended ; by Bro. Beattie to the members, who 1 reciprocated, all present were the \ guests of Bro. Eeattie at supper. ■ POST OFFICE NOTICES OVERSEAS MAILS 1 Overseas mails close at the Chief ■ Post Office, Oamaru, as under:— 1 Saturday, December 17.—Australia, 1 China, Japan, Italy and Balkan States; ' also all Empire countries and Egypt; 1 Empire air service; air mail due Lon-' i don January 2; per Awatea, from ' Auckland; by north express; at 2 p.m.; i late fees at C.P.O. at 2.20 p.m., and • at Railway Station 3 p.m. Monday, December 19.—Samoa and Niue, per Maui Pomare. from Wellington; by north express; at 2 p.m.: late fees at C.P.O. at 2.20 p.m., and at 1 Railway Station 3 p.m. Australia, • China, Italy and Balkan States; also all ; Empire countries and Egypt; Empire • air service; air mail due London Janu- ■ ary 2; by New Zealand air service; ; letters only; extra fee Id per oz; per airliner; 8 p.m.; to connect with Awatea at Auckland. Wednesday, December 21.—Austra- ' lia, China, Japan, Italy, and Balkan States; also all Empire countries and Egypt: Empire air service; air mail I due London January 5, per Wanganella, from Wellington .by north express, at 2 p.m. Late fees at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 ' p.m. Thursday, December 22.—Australia. China. Japan, Italy, and Ba.lkan States, also all Empjre countries and Egypt. Empire air service; air mail due London January 7; per Orford, from Auckland. By north express at 2 p.m. Late fees at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 p.m. Saturday. December 24.—Fiji, Tahiti. Samoa, Honolulu, Japan, Canada, United States of America, Eastern South America, and letters only for Europe, also American air mails, via Vancouver (per Aorangi, from Auckland) , per north express at 2 p.m. Latefee letters at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 p.m. Thursday, December 29.—Central and South American Western States and Europe, via Panama (per Akaroa. from Lyttelton), by north express at 2 p.m. Late fees at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 p.m. Friday. December 30.—-Great Britain and Ireland (second-class matter only) and Europe, via Cape Horn (per Waimarama, from Lyttelton), by north express at 2 p.m. Late fees at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 p.m. Saturday, December 31. Cook Islands, Tonga, and Apia (per Matua, from Auckland), by north express at 2 p.m. Late fees at C.P.O. 2.20 p.m. and at railway station 3 p.m. INCOMING MAILS (Approximate Dates) December 17.—Rangitane. from London: English papers. December 19.—Maunganui, from Melbourne: Australian and Empire mails. December 21.—Wanganella, from Sydney: Australian and Empire mails. Awatea, from Sydney: Australian and Empire mails. December 26.—Monterey, from San Pedro: American and English papers. OAMARU SOUTH SCHOOL ANNUAL "BREAK-UP" CEREMONY The Oamaru South School held its annual "break-up" ceremony in the school hall yesterday, there being a large attendance of parents and friends. Mr H. C. Jeffery (chairman of the School Committee), on behalf of the committee, extended a welcome to those present. He referred to the good work done throughout the year by the headmaster (Mr H. Heward), and his staff. He spoke of the proposed new school, and thanked the parents for their support at the recent jumble sale to raise funds for this proposal. A varied programme was presented by the pupils.of the school. Instead of a prize list, a book was presented to each member of the school. The members of the primer classes received a gift from the Christmas tree at the ceremony on Thursday. CRICKET TEAMS FOR TO-DAY Oamaru Juniors v. Union, at School. —Russel, McGregor, J. Campbell. J. Bee. Middleton, R. Campbell, Rutherford. Smith, Sloan. Parker, Thomson, Wilson.

S.P.C.A. OAMARU BRANCH MONTHLY MEETING The monthly meeting of the Oamaru branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was held on Tuesday night, there being a good attendance of members of the committee. The Ven. Archdeacon Russell was in the chair. The secretary reported that, in accordance with the resolution passed at the previous meeting: he had a telephone installed in the town inspector's residence, and advertisements placed in the newspapers asking people to report cases of cruelty, and stating that a lethal chamber was available for the painless killing of animals. The result was very gratifying. Accounts to the amount of £7 18s 6d were passed for payment. Inspector's Report The. town inspector reported having put five dogs and seven cats through the lethal chamber during the month. He stated that he had advised owners as to the care and attention that should be given to animals. He warned the owner of a dog about keeping it continually tied up and with giving it no exercise. As a result the animal was given to a person who could afford it more attention. A person sending a dog away by train in a box of insufficient size was told to procure a larger box to prevent the dog from suffocating. A bad case of cruelty to fowls was reported. A number of fowls were placed in crates in Oamaru 'a transit to Christchurch, but the space allocated to them was too small, and two fowls were dead before the crates left, one in each box. The owner was ordered to obtain an extra crate before being allowed to send the crates on. Another case of cruelty ti fowls was reported. In this case the fowls were cooped up in a small sraace. evidently for fattening purposes, and had no run or even daylight. In this case the owner made ample provision for better care and attention to be given. A starving horse and a heifer in the reserve were also attended to. The inspector was thanked for his report. This being the final meeting for the year, season's greetings were expressed.

OBITUARY MR JAMES HENDERSON Mr James Henderson, one of the oldest New Zealand-born residents of Oamaru, passed away at his residence, Tamar street, Oamaru, recently, at the age of 84 years. Mr Henderson was born in Dunedin in 1854, and was brought up at Berwick. His parents, well-known early settlers of Otago. were married in Dunedin in 1850 lay the Rev. Dr Bums. Mr Henderson was married in 1877 by the Rev. Dr Stuart to Miss Janet Robertson, of Waipori. At an early age, Mr Henderson joined the Stock Department, and in 1886 he was appointed rabbit inspector in the Southern Lakes district. Later he was transferred to Macrae's Plat, and for eight years he was inspector at Amuri, North Canterbury. He was one of the original settlers on the Waikakahi estate, near Glenavy, and on selling the property he came to live in retirement at Oamaru. There are nine surviving members of the family. SHIPPING ACTIVITIES PORT OF OAMARU High Water.—December 17: 11 a.m. and 11.25 p.m. Notes Departure.—Waikouaitl (3926 tons, Davies). at 11 p.m. on Thursday for Sydney. The Waimarino, from Auckland, for southern ports, is due at this port on Tuesday. ' \ The Kaimai. with coal from Westport, is expected at this port on Tuesday. On completion of discharge she will sail from Dunedin and Bluff. ITEMS OF INTEREST IN AND ABOUT TOWN Building Sites Under instructions from the owners, Messrs J. D. Familton and Sons will offer for sale this afternoon at 1.30 p.m„ on the subdivision, Awamoa, 20 choice building sites, each containing one-sixth acre. Those seeking sections in this desirable locality should not miss the opportunity this sale affords. The Rainfall Between 7 and 9 a.m. yesterday seven further points of rain fell in Oamaru, making the total for the month, up to 9 o'clock yesterday morning, 2.77 in. Successful Tenderers The successful tenderer for Woolwprth's new premises in Thames street was Mr W. G. Williams (Newborough) and the sub-contractor for the stone work is Mr J. Docherty (Oamaru). The work of demolishing the interior of the shop lately occupied by Cottrell's has commenced, and a start will be made with the stone work shortly after the New Year holidays. Christmas Greetings Being the last meeting of the Oamaru Borough Council on Thursday night, three ex-Mayors of Oamaru (Messrs James McDiarmid, J. M. Forrester, and M. F. E. Cooney) were the guests of the Mayor (Mr L. J. ,K. Familton) at an informal function after the meeting, when Mr Familton conveyed to them the season's greetings, and expressed appreciation of their services over a long period of years for the town. After the Waitaki County Council meeting yesterday, the Mayor, town clerk (Mr J. Branthwaite), county solicitor (Mr J. H. Main), and Mr R. L. Banks were the guests of Mr James Rodman (chairman) at dinner at the Queen's Hotel, when a short toast list was honoured, and greetings exchanged. Very happy tributes were paid to Mr Rodman for his indefatigable work on behalf of the county, and a small gift was made by Cr R. B. Meek to Miss Hoyle and the Queen's Hotel staff in appreciation of their courtesy and attention to councillors during the year. '

Otago Rural Adjustment Commission The Otago (Rural) Adjustment Commission completed its hearings of the North Otago applications for adjustments yesterday, except for any business, which might arise out of appeals not heard by the court of review. During the time the commission has been in Oamaru, it has dealt with almost 400 applications for adjustments affecting farm properties.

WAIKOUAITI

Sunday School Vacations The breaking-up ceremony of the St. John's Sunday school took place on Wednesday afternoon, when, before a moderate attendance of the vicar (Archdeacon Button) distributed prizes to all scholars who had obtained 60 per cent, of possible marks. A number of recitations, songs, and musical items were given by the scholars. On Wednesday evening the Presbyterian Sunday school scholars had their turn. An entertaining programme consisting of choruses, solos, and musical items was given, followed by a brief address *>y the Rev. T. W. Potts.

WAIMATE Primary School Parents' Day The Waimate Primary School's annual parents' day was held at the school on Thursday afternoon. Short addresses were given by . the headmaster (Mr J. L. Menzies) and the chairman of the School Committee (Mr W. G. Paul),'and the pupils presented the following items: Group and individual recitations. Primer II pupils; playettes, primers 111 and IV; mouth organ selections, Standard IV boys; life-saving exhibition (land drill), senior pupils; drill display, senior girls, verse speaking and songs, Form 11. An excellent display of arts and crafts and other handwork done by children during the year was given in the school building. In two rooms the desks were covered with exhibits of needlework, knitting, woodwork and specimens of work in other crafts, and the walls were lined with geography and nature study projects, rag mats and other articles. Particularly interesting sections were displays of book-binding work and models done in Makikihi clay. •-.'"■ Presentations to Teachers Presentations from the staff and pupils of the Waimate Primary School were made recently to Mr J. Mack and Miss E. M. Morrison, members of the staff, and to the two probationary assistants. Misses M. Mackenzie and E. Chute. The four teachers were met at morning tea by the staff and the presentations were made by the headmaster (Mr J. L. Menzies), who spoke highly of the work they had done during the time they had been at the school. Mr Mack was also honoured in view of his approaching marriage. Next year Miss Morrison will take up a position at the Waituna School.

PALMERSTON "Lawn Tennis The following teams will represent the Palmerston Lawn Tennis Club in to-day's matches:— Palmerston Al v. Waikouaiti, at Waikouaiti.—Messrs Thomson, Lees, Sbeat, and Cochrane, Miss Philip, Mrs Lees, Misses Thomas and E. Sheat. j Palmerston A2 v. Goodwood, at Pali merston.—Messrs Adams, McGregor, Mann, and Ruston. Misses Pickett, ! Ross, Fraser, and P. McLeod. To-day's matches mark the conclusion of the second round of the Easfj tern Districts Sub-association's comi petition. At present, Palmerston Al is leading by one point from Waikouaiti. , with Goodwood and Palmerston A2 next in that order. ■ ; Personal Messrs D. M. Thomson and George Ross have been appointed judges of dancing events by the Waimate Caledonian Society at its annual sports meeting to be held on Boxing Day. Messrs Thomson and Ross have been appointed to the;ls&me position fof'the Awamokb and x Middlemarch CaleI donian Societies. Mr R. Cameron will judge the piping events at Awamoko and Middlemarch.