PLEASANT POINT.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXIV, Issue 18819, 6 March 1931, Page 11

PLEASANT POINT.

DWELLING DESTROYED. A fire on Sunday night completely destroyed a residence in the township, occupied by Mrs Kellie. When the outbreak was discovered, the flames had such a firm hold that only time to rescue the children in their night attire was left. Everything in the building was completely destroyed. It is understood that there was practically no insurance cover over the furniture, though the house, which was owned by Mr W. Barker, was insured. SCHOOL COMMITTEE. The eleventh monthly meeting of the District High School Committee was presided over by Mr W. B. Oborn. Other members present were—Mesdames King and Arnott, and Messrs Watson, Halkett, Popplewell, and Wakefield. The Minister of Education wrote thanking the Committee for expressions of sympathy in the recent Hawke’s Bay disaster, and warmly praising the action of the scholars in foregoing their sports prizes so that the money could be devoted to the relief funds. The Canterbury Education Board wrote granting the Committee’s request to have the interior of the science room renovated, and to have more hat and coat accommodation provided. Mr A. S. de Montalk, 8.A., headmaster, reported that the roll numbers were —primary 160, secondary 53. Attendances had been fair. Accommodation for secondary pupils had become very short, owing to the record roll number. He advocated approaching the Board to fit up the shelter shed so that a class could be accommodated. Along with the agricultural instructor, he had arranged for a visit of scholars to the farm of Mr A. H. Roberts, to see practical farming being carried out in its various branches. The secretary was directed to write and ask the Board to fit up the shelter shed for use as a class-room, as requested. Members expressed pleasure at the large roll number in the secondary department, which it was considered was complimentary to the excellent work being carried out there. Mr Popplewell was appointed visitor for March. Accounts amounting to £7/5/6 were passed for payment. POLITICAL. A meeting convened by the Reform Party organiser was attended by about 70 supporters. Addresses were given by Mr T. D. Burnett, M.P., and the organiser, who explained how the Party were preparing for the election. A strong committee was set up, the meeting being very pleased with the Party’s prospects for next election. Both speakers were accorded hearty votes of thanks. Mr Burnett’s announcement that he would again contest the seat was very heartily received. THRESHING SEASON. Threshing mills are very busy in the district. Profiting by the favourable weather, stook-threshing is proceeding apace, and yields generally are up to expectations.