Nightcaps FARMERS’ UNION

Southland Times, Issue 22969, 15 August 1936, Page 18

Nightcaps FARMERS’ UNION

MONTHLY MEETING OF BRANCH At the monthly meeting of the Nightcaps branch of the Farmers’ Union, the following wer.> present: Messrs J. Lynch (chairman), P. Sinclair (secretary), F. Strudwick, J. G. Johnstone, C. Keen, T. Hoare, G. Taylor, A. Gordon, T. P. Johnstone, E. Kidd, T. Fraser, S. Beck, C. Speight, J. J. Crampton, A. Ellis, J. Ronald, P. Sinclair, J. J. Hogan and R. Donnelly. There was a general discussion among members on the fluctuations and different prices of fertilizers to farmers and ft was resolved that some further information be obtained on the matter. Some dissatisfaction was expressed regarding the quality and lasting ability of New Zealand-made woolpacks and cornsacks. Various opinions were expressed and any remit on the matter was held over pending further information. The draught allowance on wool selling weight was also discussed. It was stressed that the institution of that departure was a very old established one, but not altogether a just proceeding. The branch resolved to support any application for the abolition of the custom. Considerable discussion took place on the fencing of Crown lands, one member pointing out that the Crown was adverse to fencing lands where short-term leases were granted to tenants. The meeting considered that the usual fencing regulations should apply to Crown lands and the following resolution was passed: “That the branch ask the Provincial Executive to get a definition from the Land Board in connection with the fencing of Crown lands, where short-term leases are granted on settlement lands.” Annual Social. The social committee reported that arrangements had been completed to hold the annual social and dance, m the new Wairio hall during August. The Nightcaps branch of the Womens Division was co-operating wholeheartedly and the annual social function promised to be a very successful one. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH The following are extracts from reports to be presented at the annual meeting of the congregation of the Nightcaps-Ohai Presbyterian Church: The session reports that the roll shows a membership of 142 communicants. There were 25 removals during the year—22 disjunctions and three by death —while 18 names were added to the roll, nine of which were by profession. This gives a decrease of six. The minister has conducted eight funerals, eight baptisms and five marriages. The year has been an exacting one for the minister owing to the increasing number of Church activities requiring oversight in each of the five centres in addition to the numerous demands made upon his time in carrying out the pastoral work of the charge. Mr Stevenson’s pulpit ministrations have nevertheless been maintained at a high level bearing evidence of prayerful preparation in pressing home the gracious claims of the Gospel message. Although the time allowed for Bible in schools is brief. Mr Stevenson makes the most of the opportunity and visits three public schools each week.

The minister is greatly helped by the ready support given to all church matters by Mrs Stevenson. The managers report that the longstanding debt is now cleared off. They are much indebted to the legacies which have come to hand during the year. Besides the credit balance there is also £375 unconverted Government stocks and £lOO deposit. This last is a legacy from the late Mr J. Dodds. The envelope system, adopted more fully last October, has shown abundant justification. A corresponding increase in the three centres where it works is about £4l. The committee commends the system to wider acceptance throughout the parish. The financial position bears out the finding of the sub-committee which prepared a circular to the congregation last September that an increase of revenue to £l3O would be needed. Apart from the legacy money, £62 is shown as the increase in ordinary revenue and a further £Bl from the bazaar and concert in June. The balance sheet shows that they would have gone back £33 on the year’s working had it not been for legacy money. However, with heavy expenses on property, they have great cause to be thankful.

Reports of progress made during the year have also been submitted by the Presbyterian Women’s Missionary Union, the Bible classes, the Sunday schools and the Busy Bees. SALVATION ARMY NEW HALL OPENED. The recently completed new hall for the Salvation Army was officially opened before a large attendance of the public. The proceedings were commenced with a song followed by a prayer by Adjutant Wallace. The hall door was opened by Mr D. Sinclair (contractor) after which Lieu-tenant-Colonel Scotney (Territorial Property Secretary) declared the hall open. An inspection of the new building was then made and was followed by a public meeting, at which Mr W. Excell (chairman of the Nightcaps Town Board) presided. Sister Raper sang a solo and Captain Elliot led in prayer. Mr Excell congratulated the Nightcaps Corp upon its fine new hall for its services. Brigadier Gray then presented the new building to the Salvation Army and it was accepted by LieutenantColonel Scotney. The afternoon’s proceedings were marked with enthusiasm and an appeal for financial aid was generously responded to. - An opening banquet was held in the Town Hall at 6 p.m. and there was another large attendance of supporters and well-wishers. Lieutenant-Colonel Scotney presided and associated with him were the Rev. E. B. Stevenson and the Rev. C. Robinson, Messrs W. J. A. McGregor, D. Sinclair and W. Excell. Mrs W. Excell cut the cake commemorating the opening of the hall. The function was a happy one and congratulatory remarks were tendered by the various speakers. Inspirational meetings are to be held in the new hall during this week.