RATEPAYERS’ BALL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 1056, 14 October 1911, Page 3

RATEPAYERS’ BALL.

Sir,—l would like to say a few words on the principle adopted by those who are are running our “ Grand Municipal Ball,” to be held on the 20th Inst. Now, sir, I think I am quite safe in stating that the majority of ratepayers in Foxton are not in favour of a ball being carried out on such lines as the oue in question. It certainly appears that those responsible are striving to make this ball “select.” Have the majority of ratepayers asked for such extravagance ? I certainly do not think so. How many can afford to pay 10s 6d double ticket, and in most cases a new dress and sundry other things, making in all a very expensive evening’s amusement ? The position is simply this: “We, the superior people” of Foxton, give you, poorer ratepayers, a concert and pictures, and “ we ” are going to have a grand ball all to ourselves, and all we ask in return for having condescended to grant you a concert and pictures (by pay mg for it) is that in the event of our ball not paying expenses you pay your share of the deficit. It has been alleged that unless a charge ot at least 10s 6d were made, the common people would overcrowd the Hall. The common people must be satisfied with a seat for a certain sum of money to watch these “superior people” dance, and listen to the dulcet strains of an imported band. Now, sir, I submit that every ratepayer in Foxton should have had the opportunity of taking part in the opening dance at as small a cost as possible. If the “ elite ” want a ball of a superior order, by all means have it, but don’t ask the majority of ratepayers to run the risk of any deficiency that may occur through a ball of this description.—l am, etc.,

Citizen