NEWS OF THE UNIONS.

White Ribbon, Volume 12, Issue 141, 13 February 1907, Page 3

NEWS OF THE UNIONS.

We rely on our local Unions to send us news for this column We cannot evolve it out of our inner consciousness.

Christchurch At the meeting held on January iltli the following resolution was passed : •* This Union expresses its deep sorrow at the news of the death of Mrs Josephine butler, and desires to place on record its profound appreciation of the splendid services she rendered to the cause of purity and the suppression of all legalised vice ” A resolution was also carried expressive of the Union’s appreciation of the work of the late Rev. John Orchard and of sympathy with his family, business in connection with the Convention occupied the attention of the meeting. Weekly meetings of the Union have lieen held since January 9th, to make arrangement!for Convention. The Caledonian Rooms have been secured for the session and also foi reception of delegates, and 300 invitations have lieen issued for the reception. I’he Hon. and Mis (J. J. Smith have kiudly consented to lend their grounds for a garden party to be held on Feb. Uth. Mrs S. F. Whitcombe wa.appointed to r* present the Union at the Convention The following resolution wis passed “The uiemliers of the W.C.T.U. congratulate and thank the City Council for their action in nominating Aiesdames Wolls and Page to the Charitable Aid board.” Dunedin. The first monthly meeting of 19()7 was held on Feb. 5. Airs Heat ley reported that over two gross of the White Ribbon writing pad had been sold. After expenses have been paid, we hope to use the surplus in advancing the work of the Union as necessity arises. Mrs Pearson read the report from the Sailors' Rest, which contained encouraging accounts of ships visited, Christmas presents to men, and good work done amongst the sailors. Some sister Unions have contributed comfort bags, so appreciated by the sailors, one coming from as far as \\ airnate to our Rest. Mrs Poiteus gave a hopeful account of temperance work done at Cromwell, where she had spent a holiday, and found some enthusiastic workers desirous of forming themselves into a branch of the Union. Miss McCarthy reported on the work done in the Union at Naseby. Kaiapoi.

The 17th anniversary of our Union was celebrated on January 39th, the largely attended meeting of members and friends being opened with the Crusade psalm and hymn. Annual reports from Kaiapoi, Rangiora and Waikari were read, showing increased membership and interest in the work. The treasurer’s report showed a balance in hand, as did also that of the manager of the coffee rooms. Mrs Hay man read the 2nd part of the life of Frances Willard, written by Mrs Dohrinann, N.Z. Treasurer. (This ought to

be read before all our Unions.) Music, recitations and addresses were given by lady friends and clergymen. Refreshments were served, and one new member was enrolled. Special thanks w’ere accorded to the secretary. Mrs Soulby, for seventeen years’ faithful service. Lower Hutt. The annual meeting was held in December, when the report showed that the Union has suooeeded in paying off the debt on the hall, and has funds in hand. The officers elected were : President, Mrs (iarlick ; secretary, Mrs Yerex ; treasurer, Mrs Routly. Great regret is felt by the members at the death of Mrs Brooker, a most active member and an ex-president of our Union. Since the annual meeting the secretary. Mrs Yerex, has removed from the district Wanganui. The hrst meeting of this year was held on Feb. Ist, when the superintendents of departments were elected. The letter re Whitk Ribbon was read, and a resolution was passed that this Union stand by the paper as heretofore. One new member was admitted, and Mrs Upton (from New Plymouth) was welcomed to the Union, instructions were given to our delegate as to how to vote at the Convention. Wellington. (>ur first meeting i t tni new year ws« held on February 7. when ♦r.toe was a good attendance. and Mrs Boxab gave an inspiring addresb. On the question of Hare Majority being discussed, it was decided th%t this Union is not prepared to conduct a Parliamentary agitation for the change. Mrs Boxall and Miss Wilkinson were appointed to represent Wellington at Convention. Mrs Cole aiH Miss Webb were nominated President and Seci »t;»ry resjiectively for the New Zealand W.C.T.U. At the close of the meeting afternoon tea was dispensed.