FLASHES.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 11 October 1917, Page 2

FLASHES.

<* An Amusement Tax comes into force on the Ist November. A reward is offered for black cattle dog lost at Buckland's saleyards on October 1. A notice appears in another column with reference to a flat-bottom punt, found in the harbour. Messrs Stewart Bros., Ltd., announce a 'great salvage sale of handkerchiefs, twill sheeting, underwear and hosiery See advertisement elsewhere. At the North Auckland Farmers' Cooperative, Ltd., saleyards, Helensville on Tuesday last, the grazing rights of the Show Ground were sold by auction, Mr J. Mills being the highest bidder at £49. The world's greatest war picture "Sons of the Empire," will be shown at the Lyric Theatre this (Thursday) evening. As the proceeds go to providing comforts for our soldiers, we anticipate a bumper house. A parade of the Helensville Senior Cadets was held on Saturday afternoon last. Aiter inspection they marched to the Rifle Range, and were put through a course of musketry, under Staff Serg-t.-Major Johnstone. The stall (managed by the Women's Patriotic League) is getting more and more into favour, as on Friday evening last the takings amounted to £3 5s 4d. A couple of guessing competitions were held, Mrs Wilkins winning one, and Mrs Thompson the other. On and after the 15th mst., there will be an increase in the rates of postage for parcels, particulars of which can be obtained at the local Post Office. In addition to the rates which come into force on the date named a further charge of 6d will be made on each parcel which the sender desires to enclose in a hamper instead of the ordinary bag, The Helensville Fire Brigade fortnightly socials are getting more 'popular than ever. Last Thursday evening's affair was well attended, and an enjoyable evening was spent by those present. Miss Cullens presided at the piano, and the duties of Ms.C. were in the capable hands of Messrs Russell and Constable. The excursion season is now upon us, and some pleasant outings are anticipated, but those who went out on Sunday last were disappointed on account of rain setting in. A number rode out to the Coast, while several launch parties visited Shelly Beach. Needless to say, the majority returned home cold and wet through. The Girls' Branch of the Navy League will give an entertainment in the Lyric Theatre, Helensville, on Monday, 22nd October (Labour Day). Half the proceeds go to the Helensville Women's. Patriotic League and the other half to the Navy League. The Helensville ladies have kindly consented to accommodate the members of the Company, and it is hoped that there will be a good attendance.

The arrangement that Mr J. S. Dickson, M.P., should act as substitute in the absence of Mr J. Gordon Coates, Member for Kaipara, is not working at all satisfactorily so far as Kaipara is concerned. The Otamatea County Council has protested against the arrangement, the Northern Wairoa Branch of the Second Division League had to spend about five shillings to get an indefinite reply from Mr Dickson, and the Catholic representatives altogether repudiate Mr Dickson as a representative, in view of his, very improper and insulting remarks made recently upon the floor of the House to the effect that "he could not trust a Catholic employee." The Catholics strongly resent this outrageous insult, and are taking pains to let Mr Dickson understand the position.—Wairoa Bell.