Reporter's Diary (Press, 5 August 1978)

Doris May, widow of the historian Phil May, expressed her displeasure with the Heathcote County Council after receiving a letter addressed to her deceased husband. The council had previously acknowledged his passing by sending an electricity bill to the “Estate of P. R. May.” In the latest correspondence, the council informed her that Phil May's name would be removed from the county electoral roll unless they received a prompt objection. In a separate matter, the Waimairi County Council has defined specific nighttime hours to reduce noise. Their town planning committee ruled that night will occur from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and between noon and 11.59 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. A letter from Mrs Lily Halpin in Lancashire, England, reached residents at 32 Durham Street, seeking to reconnect with former acquaintances. She reminisced about a visit to the Durham Street address approximately 50 years ago, where she stayed with Mr and Mrs Bambey and played with their children, Colin and Alex. The current occupants, unfamiliar with the earlier residents, brought the letter to “The Press” in hopes of assistance in reconnecting. In market news, research conducted in San Francisco highlighted a segment of affluent male homosexuals who tend to spend extensively on various consumer goods, including dining, clothing, and home furnishings. This demographic, which has been recognised as significant in the consumer market, has influenced local politicians, as estimates suggest around 28 per cent of the voting population identify as "gay." In response to a recent outcry for more child-appropriate films in Christchurch, Kerridge Odeon is launching a “Fanta Cinema Saturday Club” starting on 12 August 1978. This initiative will showcase “G” rated films each Saturday at the Avon Theatre, featuring titles suitable for youngsters alongside special appearances, such as quiz shows led by the theatre manager, Mr Trevor King. In a curious development in the toy industry, a novelty male doll called “Gay Bob” has been introduced to the market. Designed by Harvey Rosenberg, this 33cm doll, which comes in a closet, is noted as the first homosexual doll, priced at $15 in stores across the United States. Rosenberg aims for the doll to symbolise male liberation, encouraging both straight and gay individuals to embrace openness. Lastly, a light-hearted incident at a Christchurch bus stop showcased a conversation between two young men discussing reckless behaviour. One boasted about his traffic violations, while the other downplayed them, leading to an amusing exchange observed by a nearby passerby. Several students at the University of Canterbury experienced a practical joke when they arrived to hear an expected speech by Prime Minister Muldoon, only to find out it was a hoax and he was never scheduled to speak.

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