News Of The Day. (Press, 4 May 1909)

On 4 May 1909, "The Weekly Press" featured an issue filled with engaging stories and illustrations, particularly highlighting portraits of Amy Bock, who was notably referred to as the female bridegroom. The publication also introduced a series titled "The Adventures of Ru*vell Howard," beginning with "The Case of Lord Ponderry," which narrates the capture of a young nobleman by Sicilian brigands. The news included reports from Greymouth about planned indignation meetings in Westport and Greymouth, aimed at protesting the abolition of the Westland District Court. An extensive report on livestock slaughtered at the Christchurch abattoir for April detailed the figures: 959 cattle were slaughtered with 11 condemned, alongside 864 sheep, 1,097 lambs, 810 pigs, and 388 calves. Building permits issued in April were noted, with a total value exceeding £23,000 for projects in various wards. The Richmond Methodist Church celebrated its anniversary with services led by Rev. C. H. Garland and Rev. G. H. Law, drawing considerable public attendance. In response to an appeal from the Maori Mission Board, St. Andrew’s Church conducted a special offertory, demonstrating community support. Despite the bowling season ending, enthusiasts expressed a desire to continue the sport. The weather pattern shifted, bringing heavy mist which was welcomed by hunters preparing for duck shooting. The potato blight severely affected crops in South Canterbury, leading to reduced pricing and concerns among merchants about oversupply. Additionally, a new disease detrimental to onions was noted. The Associated Board of the Royal Academy of Music announced the closing of entries for examinations, with numbers reflecting interest in both theory and practical assessments. In legal matters, the Westport murder trial was set for hearing on 10 May, with a significant number of witnesses summoned for both the prosecution and defence. A report revealed that Michael J. Morrigan, a publican from Shannon, faced charges for licensing violations during the recent election, marking a first-of-its-kind case in New Zealand. Trinity Congregational Church held services where Rev. W. J. L. Closs shared messages of faith and trust in God. Concerned poultrymen protested the closure of the Burnham Poultry Experimental Farm, advocating for its reconsideration due to its vital contributions to the poultry industry. Following the Labourers' dispute, the Timaru Borough committed to ensuring fair treatment of employees, linking pay to work performance while allowing for time off during illness. Moreover, updates from the weather department forecasted adverse weather conditions, likely affecting shipping and encouraging caution. The wider community engaged in various events, including a successful musical performance at Sydenham Mission Hall, featuring the travel representative of Dr. Barnardo's homes, and discussions on improving the agricultural sector through proposed reorganisation strategies. Additionally, a meeting convened by citizens protesting taxation on farms indicated a push for balanced assessments between unimproved and improved land values. In cultural events, combined church parades celebrated community spirit, while a significant share of recent reports focused on music, agriculture, and public welfare initiatives, demonstrating active participation across different sectors of society.

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