OWAKA.

Otago Witness, Issue 2672, 31 May 1905, Page 35

OWAKA.

Jfay 24-t—Notwithstanding the- time of year, the weather is fairly good, with hard, frosty nights ;and very often, bright,, sunny days to follow. .Empire Day (to-day) did not make much difference here. , The flag was hoisted at 'school, and after the children had saluted it they sang~the_ national anthem, and spent the afternoon with singing and- indulged in some recitations. Two new members have been added to the recently-elected committee to, make up the required number—Messrs J. Callafian - and J, Henderson. New Business.—At long last we have a new Baker. Mr A. Harris, having bought a good cite in the township, haa commenced business, and is, I believe, getting a good share of patronage. As a result- of the competition bread, at both shops is down to 6d. Ambulance.—As the members who passed their first course in fiist-aid work are anxious to begin the second course, a meeting is to be held on Friday first to make arrangements, and also to consider other business prior to beginning the winter's work. The St. John's Ambulance Brigade has been well attended during the summer months, especially by ladies, and this has been helpful in keeping up practice. Social.—A very successful and enjoyable Sunday school social was held in the Baptist Church last night, and, considering the cold night and muddy roads^sihe attendance was good. The church was nicely decorated with shrubs and flowers, and the children looked exceedingly pretty on the raised platform among the greenery. Mr Every, the new pastor, made an efficient chairman, and addressed, the children from the text, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth." The Rev. J. Chisholm delivered a sound and profitable address on 'loyalty,'* and Mr Win. Ings, from Dtmedin, sproke suitably to both parents and. children. The children sang several marching hymns and carried red flags, which looked most effective and showed that they had been carefully trainedT Recitations •were given.by the little ones, and were listened to with interest. Miss Nichol sang "No night there," and also' took, part in a duet with Miss Alice Fraser, "Will there be any stars in nxy crown-?" The children, numbering 36, each received a book 'prize, most of which were handsomely bound. The ladies, as usual, ■were to the fore with an abundance- of good things, which, along -with a good cup oi tea, were mucL enjoyed". Mr M. Morton proposed a vote of thanks to all who had assisted, and to Miss E. Dutton for training the children co nicely in their various pieces. The Rev. J. Chisholm pronounced lie benediction, and' all reached- home at an early hour. Threshing.—The threshing mill commenced operations in this district to-day, and as the cops were got in in fairly good order, the returns should be- satisfactory all round. Farmers are busy digging their potato crops, .which are selling for from 8s to 10s a bag, and will, it is more than likefy, be dearer yefc