DIPTON.

Otago Witness, Issue 2080, 4 January 1894, Page 22

DIPTON.

January I.— We have had very unseasonable weather this summer. It has been somewhat better, however, since the holidays commenced. Our school closed on the 22nd ult. for three weeks, and » jumble show was held in connection with it on the evening of breaking up. This v\ as a change to our usual entertainments, and proved a financial succesß. There were tables of oddities for exhibition only, and other tables of goods for sale, the work of the school children. There was an art gallery, a shooting gallery, fish ponds, and refreshment stalls, and all were well patronised. Altogether, it was a novel show, and seemed to give general satisfaction. I understand the proceeds will go towards replenishing the school library. Last year's proceeds were devoted to obtaining a laboratory for the school, which was subsidised by the Education Board, and coat some £12 to complete. The Holidays.— Christmas Day was observed as a close holiday here. As there was nothing on foot in the shape of sports the place presented a very deserted appearance To-day is the children's day. For the past 13 years it has been devoted in this district to the little folk, and the whole district combines to make it a success. Besides what was raised in the district, the following contributions were received from firms doing business in the district : — Sargood, Son, and Ewen, a collection of toys ; Butterworth Bros., a collection of scissors and knives ; Broad, Small, and Co , a silver teapot ; W. Guthrie and Co., a handsome cruet ; Whittingbam Brus. and Instone, the regulation guinea. These donations, which add considerably to the success of the affair, are usually made through the local storekeepers, who are heart and soul in the thing, and from remarks dropped from one of them I have reason to know they are appreciated, and the donors will not be overlooked when orders are solicited. About 30 a.m. a start was made for the grounds, and the different garne3 were Btarted promptly. Messrs Menzies, Mifligan, and M'Curdy took charge of the boys, Jand Messrs Campbell, Hay ward, and Gray of the girls, and cash to the amount of £10, besides other prize 3, was competed for. Mr J. Burgess was in charge of the copper, and managed to make an excellent brew. The table management was under Mr It. ltoss, assisted by the ladies of the district. The day, though overcast, was line and everything passed off well. At 4 p.m. an adjournment was made to the hall, where over 200 presents were distributed from a Christmas tree under the management of Messrs Menzies, Williamson, and Wbitaker, assisted by Messrs Ross, M'Curdy, Campbell, Burgess, and Brycc. By 5 p.m. all was over and people began to disperse to their respective homes well satisfied with a good day's sport. The ladies deserve praise one and all for the abundant supply of good things they sent in for the occasion.