NEWS OF THE UNIONS

White Ribbon, Volume 9, Issue 97, 1 June 1903, Page 2

NEWS OF THE UNIONS

[ We rely on our local Unions to send n# imim for this column. We cannot eeolve it of our inntr cotucioutneas.] Kaiapoi. Our last meeting was held on 27th May, when there was a large attendance. The secretary read correspondence from Miss Powell re organising agent, but it was decided to adhere to resolution passed at last meeting—that this union, although sympathising with and realising the need in some parts of New Zealand for an organising agent, could not see its wiy clear to find the 30s necessary every quarter towards the expenses. Mrs Ritchie, our delegate, gave an interesting report of Convention, dealing more particularly with the different points brought forward in Mrs Atkinson’s paper. Mrs Soulby thanked all those members who had made her trip to Hanmer possible. She had greatly benefited by the change. (This was done as a small recognition of our secretary’s long and devoted service to the union.) It was decided to hold a sale of work on July 3rd and 4th. Mrs Ritchie handed in her resignation as president, saying she exceedingly regretted that circumstances had arisen which compelled her to do so. Several members expressed their regret at losing Mrs Ritchie. Mrs Blackwell was elected president for the remainder of the year. Christchurch The usual meeting of the union was held on May 27th. It was reported that on May 7th an enteitainment, followed by a tea, was given by members and a few friends to the inmates of the Jubilee Home, Woolston. Mrs West presided, and also gave a very amusing reading. Miss Roberts also gave a reading. A good musical programme was contributed by lady and gentleman friends. Auckland* At our last meeting two new members were enrolled. Our president, Mrs Dewar, has gone to Canada, and will probably be away for three months. In her absence the chair was taken by Mrs Johnston, vice-president. A short discussion 011 the claims of the White Ribbon took place, and another pound was voted towards it. It was decided that a public meeting be held the first

week in July, Miss Hughes, the organising agent, taking the matter in hand, with other helpers, to make it a gigantic success. Lower Hutt. A number of the Petone \Y. C. T.U. members visited the Lower Hutt on May 12, to organise a branch of the same Mrs Jackson, their president, took the chair. Eleven members were enrolled, and the following officers elected: President, Mrs Spilman; vice presidents, Mrs Marten and Mrs Marshall; secretary, Miss M. Jenness; treasurer, Mrs H. Baker. It was decided to hold the meetings on the second Tuesday ot each month, beginning on June 9, 1903. Invercargill. At our April meeting we had the pleasure of hearing Mrs Ritchie, of Kaiapoi, give a short evangelistic address, which was verv much enjoyed. Our last meeting, held on May sth, was very well attended, Mrs Baird in the chair. Satisfaction was expressed that the Hospital singing band, which had got rather scattered owing to Mrs Lyons’ removal north, was to be re-organised under Miss Hardie. Mrs Macalister, our delegate to Convention, gave a very clear and interesting report of the work done in Convention. OnehungaThe monthly meeting was held ou May 14th. Miss Dewar, our delegate, gave an interesting report ot the Convention held in Dunedin. Miss Hughes also gave us a short address. The president welcomed Mrs Wilding, who has lately come to this district, and who has been an active member of the union in Mt. Morgan, (Queensland. At the close afternoon tea was handed round. It was decided at a previous meeting, that each member should give 6d a quarter for the organising agent, and 3d a quarter to the White Ribbon. Wellington. An excellent meeting was held on 7th May, and all were glad to welcome Mrs Gaskin, who was on her way home from Convention. One of our members read a good paper on Gambling and a lively discussion followed, our visitor reading an api quotation from an English periodical. One new member was enrolled. Several new subscribers to the White Ribbon have been obtained during the month. Encouraging reports from the Girls’ Association

room were received. The girls are appreciating the efforts made to provide pleasant evenings. We heartily thank all w T ho assisted us in paying off of the mortgage. When the remaining £4OO is paid off we hope to add to the building, and so provide comfortable living rooms for girls who have no homes. Feilding. Our branch, in response to a request from the late Convention, decided to contribute £3 annually towards the salary of an organising agent for the colony. The local secretary was appointed to supply Temperance matter for the half column space kindly promised by the proprietors of the Feilding “ Star.” Our Band of Hope monthly meetings are well attended, and new pledges are taken at each meeting.