W. E. A.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVIII, Issue 19944, 31 October 1934, Page 5

W. E. A.

MEETING OF TIMARU CENTRE

REPORTS ON CLASSES Mr R. Stewart (president) presided over a good attendance of delegates at the monthly meeting of the Workers’ Educational Association. As a new delegate from the Public Speaking and Debating Class, Mr R. S. Wheeler, was welcomed to the meeting by the chairman. Correspondence was received from the Women’s Christian Temperance Union; Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners; and Teacher’ Educational Institute enclosing affiliation fees for the ensuing year. Affiliation fees were also received from the Economics and Public Speaking classes. The general secretary wrote congratulating the Timaru Branch on its drama activities, also stating that he hoped all classes and study circles would reaffiliate with the local Association, as the local committee was the organising force and head of the movement in this district. The secretary reported that the Economics class had ended its session for the year. The class had been an excellent one, and some very interesting and educational discussions had followed Mr Price’s lectures, which had merited much better attendances. In the Public Speaking and Debating class, which was continuing, much practical work had been accomplished by the students in the matters of short speeches, lecturettes, and debates on various subjects. The tutor, Mr Paterson, had encouraged the members to study along lines which had proved very beneficial, helping them to become more convincing speakers. The class had met in debate the Timaru Catholic Club on the subject “that an efficient defence force is necessary for New Zealand.” The judge, Mr A. E. Lawrence, editor of “The Timaru Herald,” had placed the W.E.A. team two points below their opponents, which was a very creditable performance. Here again the class attendance could be improved. The social committee had met several times and had arranged a good social for the annual break up to be held next month. A programme of two one act plays, a debate, and several musical items would be given, followed by supper. During the month the association had lost by death Mr C. H. Tripp, one of its lecturers and supporters. A letter of condolence had been sent to the relatives. A picture entertainment had been held since last meeting, and had proved very successful. It was hoped to hold another one in the near future. The members who took part in the debate were congratulated on their performance by the committee. A long discussion took place on the best method to improve class attendances. Some suggestions were as follows: Talks on W.E.A. matters by tutors or members or both to likely societies; different subjects next year, such a study of drama alone, and various educational phases, summer study circle (not box circles), etc. It was suggested also that the tutors might have various ideas on the subject, and it would be helpful to get their opinions. The president reminded members that next meeting was the annual one and he hoped there would be a good attendance of members.