Reporter’s Diary (Press, 15 April 1983)

Members of the New Zealand Prison Service are set to receive their Queen’s medals, which were established during the Royal Visit in 1981. The striking of these sterling silver medals by the Royal Mint faced delays due to the Falklands conflict, which required prioritisation of South Atlantic Medals. The New Zealand Prison Service Medals will be awarded to those who have served 14 years continuously. Featuring the Queen's effigy, the reverse side bears the St Edward’s Crown with the inscription “New Zealand Prison Service—for long service and good conduct.” Prior to this, from 1901 to 1976, members had received an unofficial medal similar to that of the police force, which lacked official recognition. On another note, a report by the Association of Commonwealth Universities highlights how everyday actions can lead to significant calorie burn. It mentions that people in sedentary jobs might be surprised to learn that various activities can consume hundreds of calories. Examples include "making mountains out of molehills," which burns 500 calories per hour, while "running around in circles" can burn 350 calories. Other amusing activities listed include "jumping to conclusions" (100 calories) and "pushing your luck" (250 calories). St Peter's Anglican Church in Church Corner is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, with a special service planned for Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Additionally, there will be a display of old photographs and memorabilia for attendees to enjoy after the service. In a lighter story, a woman from Northamptonshire, Mrs Jean Eisenhauer, purchased an Ashburton-made spinning wheel wrapped in pages of an old edition of “The Press.” Intrigued by the newspaper, even though it was a year out of date, she has sought a New Zealand pen-friend through a letter to the editor. She is a working wife in her thirties and a mother of three. The spinning wheel she bought is part of the 200,000 manufactured by Ashford Handicrafts, which exports a large portion of its production to various countries. In the United States, Captain Dusty Pruitt, a member of the Army Reserve, has filed a lawsuit against the Defence Department and the Army after being suspended for admitting her sexuality as a lesbian. The 36-year-old, who has been in service since 1971, was previously set for promotion to major before the suspension followed her interview with the “Los Angeles Times,” where she spoke about her role as a preacher in a gay church.

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