OWAKA.

Otago Witness, Issue 2892, 18 August 1909, Page 39

OWAKA.

' August 14.— We are now into the first month of spring. Where the rabbits are not in evidence the grass is beginning to spring, and the daffodils are well up in the gardens, while fruit buds are shooting forth. Altogether we have reason to be thankful that we have escaped with such a mild .winter. Amusements. — The people seem to be getting iust a little tired of entertainment here, as those held here lately— namely, an orchestral concert, an Oddfellows' ball, and a Band of Hops meeting — were not so well patronised as usual, or perhaps it was owing to the fact of . there being so much illness in tha district. i Sickness. — A real epidemic of measles has. 1 been going the rounds of our district, and there have been some rather severe cases among them. Dr Line is, indeed, a very busy man, and has been kept going nighb and day. I am sorry to have to record the death this week of the little five-year-old son of Mv C. Latta. With a very poor attendance the school has continued its work, as it was ot thought advisable to close it. Changes.— Several settlers round here are either selling or re-leasing their places, and sales of furniture are quite common. Then there are changes of a- different character to take place if rumour speaks truth. Mr Bryant, who has filled the position of head teacher here for the last 24 years, has sent in his resignation, which has been accepted by the board. Mr Bryant does not, I understand, retire till the end of tho yoar. Then, I believe, our Presbyterian minister (the Rev. J. Ghisholm) is to be married lo Miss Adam about the middle of next month. Yesterday Mr C. Bird was married to Miss Vera . Wyber. Airship. — In common with other districts the leading topic has been the airshipl Several persons have seen the light, but not very lately. Bunny. — Trapping is over for the season, but a good many are still getting skin-?, which eJt this season realise a good price. What with the trapping and shooting, etc., the little pest ought to bo somewhat scarce j now.