DISTRICT NEWS.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 7, Issue 424, 8 November 1918, Page 1

DISTRICT NEWS.

PAPATOETOE. ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY FORMED. With the object of forming an Orchestral Society in Papatoetoe, a public meeting was held in the Papatoetoe Public Hall on Wednesday last, Mr James Hunter prhsiding over a representative gathering. Prior to the commencement of business, feeling reference was made to the deaths in action of Privates Watson, Harry,' Gillard, and Whiteley, all sons of well-known local residents; and on the motion of Mr A. U. Timewell, seconded by Mr Galloway, a vote of condolence with the relatives was carried ih silence, all standing. The chairman explained at length the aims and objects of the proposed Society-namely, to foster the social and musical element in the district, and on the motion of Mr Coles, seconded by Mr Barton, it was decided to establish an organisation, to be known as the " Papatoetoe Orchestral Society." The following officers were elected viz President, Mr J. A. Bradstreet; Vice-Presidents, Messrs J. Watson, A. W. Hall, Isaac Gray, T. Davis, and A. U. Timewell; Secreretary, Mr W. J. Dilworth; Treasurer, Mr Jas. Hunter ; Executive, Messrs, S. Barton, F. C. Western, Jas. White, H. Christopher, and J. Cobine Mr P. C. Calkin was appointed Conductor, at a remuneration of £1 per week. The subscription for playing members was fixed at Is per week, while honorary members' subscriptions was fixed at a minimum of 10s 6d, such subscription to entitle the holders to two free tickets to each concert, benefit concerts excluded. The Secretary and Treasurer were deputed to wait on the Papatoetoe Road Board to ascertain the charge for the use of the stage for 58 practices per year. Messrs Ernest and Cobine were accorded a hearty vote of thanks for offering their piano for use at practices. A vote of thanks to the chair terminated the proceedings. The Society's first practice will be held next Wednesday in the Town Hall. Owing to the influenza epidemic, the Papatoetoe public school has been closed for a week. The headmaster and several of the staff have been laid low, but we understand they are making rapid progress towards recovery.