THE WAR MEMORIAL

Southland Times, Issue 25796, 6 October 1945, Page 6

THE WAR MEMORIAL

Sir,—Mr H. Jefferies has given his considered opinion on the above sub- ! ject and he is against the proposals submitted by the Council of Sport. His conception of a community centre appears rather vague, and I doubt if he has given the subject the consideration it deserves. Does he not realize the urgency as well as the vital importance of the work at present engaging the time so freely given by social workers who are devoting their thoughts to planning ways and means of promoting the mental and physical betterment of the people? “A nation’s health is a nation’s wealth.” Sport and healthy recreation create a strong, happy nation and build good citizens. A community centre is a place of common worship for people of all ages who may enjoy common rights, privileges and interests. The plans make provision for interests apart from sport. The beauty and uplifting influence of good music has not been forgotten, as provision has been made for band, orchestral and choral music. Accommodation for debating, play or social clubs, rifle and camera clubs, hobbies, etc., could be catered for if support is forthcoming. I would remind Mr Jefferies that those people who are associated with the guidance of young people are continually doing “something for nothing.” Their reward is the pleasure it gives them to build up a society of better men and women of the future, or to discover some hidden talent awaiting encouragement of expression or development. Proficiency in games, art or skill demands sacrifices which must be made by performers, organizers, conductors and coaches. It is suggested that such a community centre would be a suitable memorial to those who have made the supreme sacrifice in order that those who live, as well as the generations to come, may live in happiness and peace. War has brought the rank and file of our people together and also developed understanding, mutual regard, and sympathy for those who have suffered. The idea of a war memorial, set in an appropriate position and attached to a community centre, appears to be a most fitting symbol of unity and sacrifice PROGRESS.