News
ServicemoNTT0HF.
Circulated for Foys Store at CITY . . . COLLINGWOOD PRAHRAN . . CHADSTONE DANDENONG . . . Partons COLAC . . . Foy-Bilsons GEELONG Brights BENDIGO Myers MILDURA . . . . Bowrings BALLARAT . . . Morsheads
VOL 7, No. 4
MAY, 1965
PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH
The PERSONALITY of whom we write this month is well, and favorably known throughout Foys organization. Although his actual service with Foys is of a relatively brief period, his association with Cox Bros. (Aust.) Ltd. stems back for 15 years. His rise to promin- ence has been noteworthy and his well-deserved reputation for ef- ficiency and application lift him to a high rank in our organization.
This is the story of
Mr. IVOR JOLLIFFE, Controller Hardware Group
City Store.
Our friend was born at Wyn- yard, Tasmania, on 4/5/1918. He was a member of a large family that had been resident in the dis- trict for very many years.
Mr. Jolliffe, Senior, had arrived in Wynyard with his parents in the '80s, as a child of eight years, and after a sailing ship voyage that lasted eight months from the embarkation port in Wales.
Ivor's father prospered exceed- ingly in the town of his adoption, and he carved out a most success- ful business as a draper. The large Store he owned employed 12 as- sistants — a large number for a small town—and it had an equally prosperous branch at Longford, Tasmania.
Young Jolliffe's early education was received at Wynyard State School. Later, he transferred to the Burnie High School.
In common with all of the States, Tasmania felt the impact of the Great Depression in the early 30's, and the. Jolliffe Stores suffered very greatly.
Future prospects for a young student's career in the "Apple Isle" appeared to be very grim, so Ivor's parents decided to send him to the mainland, further his
education and — suitably equip- ped by this means — to essay a livelihood in more prosperous Vic- toria.
Our young friend was not yet 14 years of age when he arrived in this State. He secured board- and lodging in the Footscray dis- trict, and enrolled in the local Technical School.
In his new activities, the young student did well. It's always a distinction and an honor, for any young lad to become a Prefect, or a House Captain at his School.
Young Ivor achieved both honors, and in addition was a member of the School Football team. This same team, incidentally, won A and B Grade Premierships of the Associated Technical Schools Competitions.
Just as it is in 1965, so was it in 1933, when schools were on Christmas vacation and "holiday"
jobs eagerly sought. Ivor was amongst the many who sought temporary employment in the Christmas period of 1933. He succeeded in his quest, and com- menced duty in Floor Coverings and Furniture Departments at Myers. Weekly wage was 15/6.
He was apparently well regarded for he was induced to transfer from "temporary" ranks to a per- manent position in the same De- partment.
Six months were spent in this sphere. Then came a transfer to Basement Hardware, carrying with it the princely "rise" of 1/- a week after 12 months. A further transfer back to his original De- partment of floor Coverings took place some 12 months later and this, too, carried a wage increase (of 4/- a week).
At the age of 18 years, young Jolliffe was in charge of Linos, performing such tasks as ordering, selling and cutting. At this age of 18 years and in the still de- pressed financial atmosphere of 1936, it was time to worry about the future. The attainment of 23 years meant full wages of
£4/18/- a week and many firms
"applied the axe" before that stage was reached. Up to 1940, however, Mr. Jolliffe was still amongst the employed.
Prior to the advent of the Second World War, our friend had been a militiaman. He en- listed in the A.I.F. in early 1940, and was posted to the 2/22nd Battalion, shortly after which he was transferred to the 2/11th .Field Regiment. It's worthy of record, by the way, that many members of the 22nd Battalion were captured by the Japanese
forces at Amboina — a fate he fortunately escaped by only a very brief period.
After seeing active service in Palestine, Syria, New Guinea, and Darwin extending over 51i years, Battery Signal-Sergeant Jolliffe doffed his uniform in late 1946, and returned to his peacetime job at Myers.
Mr. Jolliffe remained at the Bourke Street Emporium for the next 18 months. Then followed periods of employment at two other Melbourne furniture firms until he joined the organization of Cox Bros. ( Aust.) Ltd. on 27/3/1950. The new appoint- ment here was as Carpet and Furniture Buyer at the Brunswick Street Store.
In the eight years spent at Cox Bros. Mr. Jolliffe achieved the re- putation of an efficient and dili- gent officer—attributes thoroughly well deserved, and part of the personal characteristics of an ef- ficient man. In that same service with Cox Bros., our PERSONAL- ITY became Personnel Manager, and Branch Liaison Officer, Bourke St. Store, with the responsibility for display and window presenta- tion.
Mr. Jolliffe came to Foys on 22/1/1958 and his first important assignment was as Store Manager, Collingwood, where he was in charge for six months. Then fol- lowed a transfer to a similar posi- tion at the Prahran Store.
A productive year was spent at Prahran. Transfer to the City Store saw him esconced into the important post of Controller, Hardware Group, where he is to- day, performing his many duties in a manner consistent with his excellent record, and supported by his own personal qualifications of ability and "Know how".
In private life, Mr. and Mrs.
Jolliffe live at 64 Fortescue Ave., Seaford. They have two children
— a son (Peter) aged 20 years, and a daughter (Christine) ) aged 17 years. Even with his busy commercial life, our friend finds time for his hobbies of woodwork and house maintenance, and lat- ter-day pursuits of fishing, swim- ming and yachting.
In earlier years, principal re- creations were ice-skating and yachting. Then, the latter sport revolved around an 8-footer; to- day, it has graduated upwards until his principal recreation is as a member of the 7-man crew of the 21-footer ( restricted class ) yacht "Endeavor"—in which boat
two fellow crew members are Mr.
Don Bitcon ( Hardware ) and Mr.
Mat Crafti ( Electrical). The "En- deavor", by the way, has been successful in winning the most trophies (14 in number) for races promoted by the Royal St. Kilda Yacht Club. Amongst these can be numbered line honors and the seasons handicap aggregate.
To a good fellow enjoying the esteem of his friends and col- leagues we convey a sincere tribute of appreciation. To it, we add good wishes for a continuing first-class future.
CITY STORE FAREWELLS TWO FINE PEOPLE
One of the most representative gatherings ever assembled in the City Store was present at the Roof Top Cafeteria on the evening of Thursday, 13th May, when a Cocktail Party was tendered to two well-known personalities — Mr. C. Baxter and Miss S. Roche
— on the occasion of their retire- ment from the service of Foy and Gibson Ltd.
The gathering was presided over by Mr. J. N. Watt, Managing Director, and amongst those pre- sent was Mr. A. J. Thomas, Mr.
F. A. Houghton, representatives from all Melbourne Stores, Col- lingwood Office and Despatch De- partment, and the personal friends acquired by Mr. Baxter and Miss ROche from amongst the staff during their long periods of ser- vice.
Miss Cleghorn and members of her efficient Cafeteria staff ex- celled themselves with the pro- vision of an excellent Cocktail Buffet, and all other arrangements for an enjoyable evening were in evidence. Features of the decora- tions were two large portraits of the evening's Guests of Honor flanking both sides of the dais.
These were the work of Mr. Band- man, and were the subject of very favorable comment by all present.
Mr. J. N. Watt made the pre- sentations to Mr. Baxter and Miss Roche, and in his remarks referred to the great service given to the Company by both pergons. Al- though both retirements were dis- tinct losses to the organization of Foys, Mr. Watt voiced the feel- ings of all present when he ex- pressed the hope that the future would be marked with health, happiness, and prosperity for both parties. The Guests of Honor fittingly responded and each was accorded an excellent reception.
OF THE MONTH
EDITORIAL
A universal habit amongst people of an older generation is to criticize the shortcomings of the younger generation. We deny to no one the right to criticize, but we also believe that much of the criticism is not justified. It should be tempered with reality, and should appreciate the lessons of previous years.
In any phase of young behavi- our — whether it be manners, dress, morals or speech — you'll hear the comment, "We didn't do things like that in our days. ' Sometimes, it goes, "Don't know what the younger generation's coming to! We didn't act, or speak, or dress, like THAT when we were young."
Today's young people do dress in styles that are different; they do use slovenly speech, display downright rudeness, have positive opinions on everything, and — greatest crime of all — fail to give us elders the respect to which our wisdom, experience and talents entitle us.
But, the big question is this:—
Were we any better in our young days? Didn't we admire, and imitate, the younger generation because we were part of it? May- be, our present-day criticism is really out of perspective!
Many of the complaints spring from smugness and self-righteous- ness. We won't believe we ever did anything wrong when we were young; we won't believe that today's young people are quite as good as we were ( in some re- spects, they're even better) and we can't understand why the comments we so generously give, should meet with such a cool re- ception from the criticized.
It's a fact that the young gen- eration today compares favorably with past standards. Maybe, its manners leaves much to be de- sired, BUT what about OURS, when we were young? Of course
— its escapades cause some con- sternation. Didn't WE do crazy things when we were young? It's true, its slopply dress outrages our sense of good taste. Don't YOU recall the peculiar exaggerations of attire we favored when we were teenagers?
There's really no need to worry about the future of the race. The young generations of past years had the same charges levelled against them as they have today.
Yet — they grew up to become good parents, fine patriots, and first-class citizens. AND SO THEY WILL TODAY!
No Age has had, or ever will have, a monopoly of good man- ners, or precise conduct. If such a day DID arrive ( and it won't ) living in that unlikely era would be monotonous, and terribly drab.
Even if it DID arrive, be sure that there would be the usual crop of elder critics who would certainly claim that the young people of THEIR "good old days"
were far superior to those living in the improbable Golden Age!
All of this can be quickly sum- marized. Just as today's young generation is criticized, so were
the other young generations back through the Ages of History. This apt quotation illustrates the point:
"Our youth now love luxury;
they have bad manners; contempt for authority; they show their dis- respect for their elders; and love to chatter in place of exercise.
Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their households.
They no longer rise when their elders enter the room. They con- tradict their parents, chatter be- fore company, gobble up their food, and tyrannize their teachers."
Be consoled, dear reader, if YOU think this is your problem alone in 1965. THE ABOVE WORDS WERE WRITTEN NEARLY 2,500 YEARS AGO BY SOCRATES!
LASSIR
ENGAGEMENTS
Sincere congratulations are con- veyed to' the following staff mem- bers, whose engagements have been recently announced:—
Miss Coral Jackson, Ladies' Sportswear, City Store, and Mr.
Joseph Ciavola.
Miss Gail Howard, Ladies' Shoes, Bright and Hitchcocks, Geelong, and Mr. Emile Van Vel- sen.
Miss Kay Davison, Toddlers Wear, City Store, and Mr. Colin Blackman.
Mr. Graeme Anderson, Mens- wear, Partons, Dandenong, and Miss Sandra Coote.
Miss Irene Young, Ground Floor, Chadstone Store, and Mr. John Moores, Hardware Department, Chadstone Store.
Miss Alma Selkirk, Children's Shoes, City Store, and Mr. Keith Pike.
MARRIAGES
Every good wish for future happiness, health and prosperity, to the following people who re- cently celebrated their marriages:
Miss Irene Poyser, General Of- fice, Bright and Hitchcock, Gee- long, and Mr. Ron Plumridge.
Miss Faye Treweeke, General Office, Brights, and Mr. Noel Day.
Miss Colleen Herbert, Ladies' Sportswear, Bowrings, Mildura, and Mr. Graeme Hinks.
Miss Dorothy Elford, Office, Morsheads, Ballarat, and Mr.
Graeme Fraser.
BIRTHS
Foys "News Service" extends its best wishes to the following parents who were recently blessed with additions to their respective families:—
Mr. & Mrs. Don Fiddes, a daughter ( Helen Mary ). Don is a member of the Maintenance staff, City Store.
Mr. & Mrs. Alan Banfield, a daughter ( Jacqueline Marie ). Mr.
Banfield is Manager, Shoe Depart- ment, Myers ( Bendigo ).
OBITUARY
Our heartfelt sympathy goes to the relatives, and friends, of the esteemed people whose deaths we record hereunder:—
Mrs. Griffiths, the mother of Mr.
Arch Griffiths, now of Cox Bros.
Central Office, and a former Con- troller Men's Store, City.
Mr. Len Hitches, Merchandise Manager ( Country Stores ), City Store, who died suddenly on 13th May.
Mr. Percy Payne, formerly of the Carpet Department, City Store.
Mrs. Cooper, mother of Mrs.
Richardson, Maids Sportswear De- partment, City Store.
Miss Mabel Richards, a former employee of Morsheads, Ballarat, and sister of Miss Millicent Richards, Corset Department of the same Store.
Mrs. Scheele, mother of Miss Scheele, Ladies' Knitwear, City Store.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
At the request of the staff mem- bers named in this column, we convey to all readers and col- leagues the following messages of appreciation:—
From Miss M. Baird, Super- visor, City Store, for the many expressions of condolence on the death of her mother.
From Mr. C. Baxter, former Controller, City Store, for the good wishes and handsome pre- sents, conveyed to him on his re- cent retirement.
From Miss S. Roche, Manager, Ladies' Suits, City Store, for the kindly sentiments, and staff pre- sentations, made to her on the occasion of her retirement.
FAREWELL FUNCTION TO REG. DAVIES AT PRAHRAN STORE
A Farewell Dinner was tender- ed to Mr. Reece ( "Reg") Davies, Carpet Department Manager, on Friday, 21st April, to mark his retirement on the grounds of ill- ness.
The Dinner was a most repre- sentative one and was marked by the presence of Mr. J. N. Watt, Managing Director, colleagues from other Stores and many of the Prahran associates of the re- tiring gentleman. It's worthy of note that the gathering included 11 persons with records of 20, or more, years service with the Com- pany.
In making the numerous pre- sentations Mr. Watt referred to the long periods of illness suffered by Mr. Davies in recent years and expressed the hope that re- tirement would be marked by a great improvement in health, by peace and by prosperity.
"Reg" intends to live with his married son in Queensland, and
"News Service" supports the good wishes voiced by Mr. Watt, and the sincere hope that the new venue will considerably assist our friend in his progress towards good health.
MORSHEADS REGISTERS A MAGNIFICENT PERFORMANCE
The Social Club has very good reason for being proud of its suc- cess in promoting the Cabaret Ball in aid of the Ballarat Orphan- age Centenary Building Appeal.
Held at the Redan Hall, the function attracted a bumper at- tendance and was unanimously voted as having been the very best night ever held by Morsheads.
The Official Party included Mr.
and Mrs. L. C. Dunn, Cr. K. C.
Webb ( President of the Orphan- age Board of Management) and Miss Marilyn Webb, Mr. and Mrs. Russell White.
Miss Webb and Mrs. White kindy officiated as co-judges in the "Star of the Evening," and
"Matron's Quest" and these two events were won by Miss Lor- raine Dobbyn, and Mrs. Dawn Aldrich respectively.
For the ladies, fashion notes tell that Miss Dobbyn (partnered by Mr. Greg Spevis ) wore a frock of pale pink arnell, featur- ing a sleeveless overbodice trimmed with lace and crystals, and with a slimly-styled skirt.
Her accessories were white. Mrs.
Aldrich (partnered by her hus- band, Mr. Ray Aldrich ) wore a princess line frock of midnight blue tetron lurex, gathered across the bustline, and with a matching midnight blue stole. Accessories were also white.
Morsheads efforts in support of the candidature of Miss Dobbyn ( Miss Bridge Street Traders ) stem directly from the efforts of the staff and the generous gifts of Management. Through them, the Store has been able to spo.k sor the re-building of the New Dental Room at a cost of £500.
This great effort was suitably recognized by the joint Chairman of the Orphanage Appeal ( Mr.
K. A. Chalmero) in his acknow- ledgement of the gift.
The Dental Room will have the name of the Firm and the Staff on the door and this will be a per- petual reminder of the great work put into the Appeal by Ballarat's Premier Store.
DOROTHY DIX - AND ALL THAT.
If you are truthful (and we know that ALL of our readers are truthful ) you'll readily admit that you just can't resist a "sneak" look at the Answers to Correspondents columns in the daily newspapers.
By this, we don't mean those terse replies that give the time, date, and place where Jack John- son knocked out Tommy Burns for the World Title, or the start- ing price of Bernborough when it won its last race, etc., etc. The columns we refer to are those where a correspondent asks for advice on some problem, and where the newspaper specialist supplies an answer to the same problem. The question, and the reply, are both printed in full.
Now that you've identified the columns we mean, you'll hardly
( Continued Page 4 )
v*L.)TO R E ROUNDABOUT
CITY
Two recent appointees have been heartily welcomed to the City Store. They are Sister Mc- Kechnie ( Medical Centre ) and Mrs. Frolec ( Supervisor, Second Floor). To the greetings already expressed "News Service" adds its contribution.
Miss Janet Wilkins, of the Millinery Department, celebrated her 21st Birthday in mid-May.
Hearty congratulations to the young lady on this most important event.
Mrs. Yaffe, Ladies' Coats, is highly elated at the safe arrival of her first grandchild, and we add our felicitations to those already given to the lady.
SOCIAL CLUB INVITES YOUR SUGGESTIONS
Although the function is still some time ahead, the Social Com- mittee is actively engaged with preparations for Foys Annual Ball.
As our readers will certainly ap- preciate, there is a vast amount of "behind the scenes" work neces- sary if this great function is to achieve its usual outstanding suc- cess.
One essential feature in the night's enjoyment is the quality of the artists engaged for floor shows, solo items, and the like.
The entertainment world is being actively canvassed at the present time to ensure the engagement of first-class performers. Mr. Reg Myers, Social Club Secretary, Mail Order Department, Prahran, cor- dially invites any suggestions you may have in this matter, and any thoughts that readers may have on this aspect will be thoroughly, and speedily, explored.
Although we have publicised the death of the late Mr. Len Hitches ( Merchandise Manager, Country Stores ), we would be very remiss if we failed to record the many expressions of sympathy recorded by those same Country Stores in their monthly report to
"News Service". The underlying sentiments of deep affection for a fine character, and excellent ser- vant, demonstrate very fully the esteem in which our departed colleague was deservedly held.
PRAHRAN
Newcomers to Store service have been adequately welcomed.
They were Mrs. A. Kay (Hosiery) and Mr. Tubridy ( Soft Furnish- ings ).
It's just as well that the Prahran Store Manager ( Mr. John Byrne ) is an athletic type. His many re- sponsibilities have been increased by the fact that his infant son has now learnt to crawl — an interest- ing development, and one marked with great speed on the part of the young fellow who favors the frontward action.
In the comings, and goings, of staff members through illness, we record with satisfaction the return to duty of Miss B. Knowles after her sojourn in hospital. Not so pleasing, however, is the news that Mr. L. Williamson (Mercery) is unwell at the moment and that Mr. "Percy" Martin of Despatch, has been compelled to enter hos- pital for an operation. To the three estimable people we convey every good wish for the future.
Mr. H. Schuyler, Manager, Warehouse Shop, advises that his Department has a number of good quality reconditioned electrical appliances ( refrigerators, washing machines, etc. ) and furniture available for purchase. Should any staff member at any of our Stores be interested, an inquiry to Mr.
Schuyler, could pay handsome dividends.
THE GREEN-EYED MONSTER AT
PRAHRAN
In unison with the prevailing mode of many young male citi- zens, the appearance of two young fellows with more than shoulder-length hair in the Store recently attracted very keen pass- ing speculation. This feeling, however, was not the case with one of our Managers for his head has a marked billiard-ball appear- ance and he frankly admits that the cause of his curiosity was un- adulterated envy!
COLLINGWOOD
New additions to the Office Staff have been welcomed during the month. They were Misses Sally Beattie, Joan Roberts ( Docket Office), Audrey Foster ( Travellers Accounts ) and Mr. Vernon.
Joseph ( also Travellers' Ac- counts ).
STORIES FROM A COMPLEAT FISHERMAN
Mr. Les Stevens, Credit Mana- ger, has returned from his holi- days. While there's nothing remarkable in this, what is re- markable are the many stories of fishing prowess modestly retailed by our friend. Far be it from us to dispute the veracity of the stories, but we find our imagination reels under the shocks of learning that some of the fish that "got away"
were at least the size of tuna, of mackerels, and of gigantic Mur- ray cods. However, Les tooks as if the holiday was thoroughly well enjoyed.
COLAC
We're glad to report that Mr.
Len Francis, of the Maintenance Staff, has returned home after some time spent in a Melbourne hospital. Everyone at Colac wishes Len "all the best" and look for- ward to seeing him back at his usual duties in the near future.
Despite valiant efforts, the Bad- minton team is encountering a succession of reverses. We hope for better news in the near future.
The Social Club has organized a Quiots Tournament, and interest in this ancient sport is being well sustained.
The new deep-grey carpet in the Ladies' Showroom is a great improvement on the prior floor covering and has had a beneficial effect on the general surroundings and the presentation of stock.
Miss Faye Neale has assumed the duties of Corsetier, and we wish the lady well in her new responsibility.
Two newcomers in the persons of Miss Val Salmon ( Showroom) and Mr. Colin Armstrong ( Gro- cery ) have been welcomed to staff ranks and we support the good wishes already expressed.
GEELONG
There's another "grandpa" on the staff in the person of Mr.
Smallcombe ( Men's Store ), whose family was recently blessed with the addition of a grandson. Hearty congratulations to all concerned.
BRIGHTS DISPLAY TEAM WINS TROPHY
Mr. Bob Mackinnon and mem- bers of the Display Staff registered an excellent performance during the month, when it was announced that the team ( and Brights ) had won the Geelong and District Hilton "Pets" Window Competi- tion. The Display Department is now the proud possessors of the handsome silver cup presented by Hilton Hosiery. Our hearty con- gratulations on an excellent effort.
A CORRECTION AND AN APOLOGY
We knew it would happen, AND IT HAS! Readers will re- call that our last issue referred to the absence of, and possible in- accuracies, in the names of prize winners at the recent Combined Staff Picnic at Bacchus Marsh.
A correction has very rightly come from Geelong regarding the names of the successful Tug-of-War team, and we hasten to correct the previous report. The names of the successful competitors should have read:—
Messrs. Alexander, Berza, Hem- ley, Madex, Morrison, Nall, Rosenbrand and Thompson. May we also add to the list the Homeric efforts of sundry anony- mous juvenile helpers, ably en- couraged by the kindly advice of Messrs. Thomas and Kefford.
A most attractive showing of Winter Fashions was held at Drysdale, near Geelong, with the proceeds of admission donated to- wards the local Church of Eng- land special effort. Brights selec- tion was very well received, and personnel who contributed to the great success of the function were
Mesdames Wyndham ( Frocks ), Maclain ( Sportswear ), Ellis ( Ticket Office ), Ellis ( Elevators) and Misses Murphy ( General Office ), Golden ( Hosiery) and Howard ( Ladies Shoes ).
Congratulations to all whose contributions made the showing such a success.
BENDIGO
Miss Pat Weigar has com- menced duty as a member of the Office Staff. A hearty welcome to the young lady and may the future be productive of every prosperity.
A Table Tennis evening was recently promoted by the Social Club and a splendid night was had by all who were present..
Whilst on the subject of this popular sport, we convey our hearty congratulations to Mr. Ken Mundie on his success in winning the Men's Bendigo "C" Grade Pennant.
Staff members recently enjoyed a night out at the Bendigo Ten Pin Bowl. Some very high scores were registered, as also were some very low scores. To those whose efforts were not crowned with success, we express the hope for
"Better luck next time."
With great pleasure we report that Miss Sue Stephens, of Cos- metics, is recovering rapidly from her operation. That the improve- ment may continue until good health is restored, is the sincere wish of Sue's many friends.
MILDURA
All staff get a great deal of pleasure noting the return to duty of Mrs. F. Gray, of Dress Mate- rials. This lady was involved in a serious car accident some time ago, sustained severe injuries, and has been absent for a consider- able period. In welcoming Mrs.
Gray, the greetings are supple- mented by the sincere hope that the lady's recovery is permanent and speedy.
BOWRINGS STAFF TO HOLD ITS FIRST BALL
We're looking forward to a complete report on the first Bow- rings Staff Ball to be held at the Club De Vince Hall. By all ac- counts, the preliminary arrange- ments guarantee a great function, and knowing the quality of the organizers, the success of the night seems assured.
BALLARAT
Newcomers to store service have been fittingly welcomed.
They are Mr. J. Werhagen and Mr. W. Gutjhar, both in Men's Wear Departments. To them both, a happy future with Mors- heads.
The inter-Store Social Golf Day has been arranged for Sun- day, July 11th, at Buninyong.
There will be barbecues on the spot for anyone requiring them and the Clubhouse kitchen will also be available.
Plans are also being prepared to provide amusement for the families of golfers, and, in all, a great day is assured. It is hoped to publicise these arrangements in the next issue of "News Ser- vice."
CHADSTONE
Hearty congratulations to Mr.
and Mrs. "Bill" Langford on the attainment fo their 30th wedding anniversary. "Bill", who is em- ployed in the Hardware Depart- ment, has been assured that all of the many Langford friends are now looking forward to the Dia- mond Anniversary.
A hearty welcome has been given to a newcomer to Store ser- vice in the person of Miss K.
Hovelt, who is employed in the Babywear Department.
By the plans that are now being made, and by the arrangements cheerfully finalized between the interested parties, Chadstone's representation at the forthcoming Foy's Ball promises to eclipse all previous numbers. A wholesome augury for another major social success.
DANDENONG
Staff movements during the month were as follows:—
NEW STAFF —
Miss Jenny Rout (Ladies' Wear), Miss Patricia Revell ( Haberdashery) and Mrs. Chis- holm, a recent arrival from Scot- land ( Fashions).
TRANSFER —
Miss Kay Deans, from Haber- dashery to Switchboard.
ON HOLIDAYS —
Miss Gamma Gerritsen, Mr.
Michael Backman.
RETURN FROM LEAVE — Mrs. Turner.
DOROTHY DIX — AND ALL THAT
(Continued from page 2) need to be told that this particular section of the paper is called the
"Dorothy Dit" column. The title springs from the pen name of the most famous of all Press oracles, and the advice freely given was compounded of wisdom, humor, and "down-to-earth" common- sense.
But — Time brings changes!
The original "Dorothy Dix"
columns became so popular that other newspapers fell into line, and a crop of new sages flourished throughout the land. Such were the bizarre problems sent to the papers by the perplexed, and such was the wisdom that distinguish- ed the replies, that the unkind suspicion grew in the minds of cynics that many of both ques- tions, and answers, originated in the fertile minds of the feature- writers themselves. Hence — the current application of the term Dorothy Dix" and hence — the reason why this term is applied today to "arranged" questions — whether they be written, or whet- her they be verbal.
There's no doubts that the practices of "Dorothy Dix" have now lapped over into the verbal
"give and take" of public life.
Take most public meetings for in- stance. The platform speaker delivers his contribution to the matter under discussion. Ques- tions are invited from the audi- ence. Many of these are quite genuine, but you can be sure that, at some stage of the meeting, a most profound ( and, sometimes, most tedious ) question will be fired at the speaker.
The knowledgeable reply that springs (apparently) spontaneous- ly from the said speaker creates the fond illusion amongst the naive that here, in essence, "is scholarship, or brilliant knowl- edge." Don't you believe it, dear reader, for we know that many of these exchanges have been "ar- ranged" beforehand, and are cer- tainly "Dorothy Dixes."
And — so it goes on! Even the sacred portals of Parliament aren't immune! That "on the beam"
question directed to the Minister and productive of an "on the beam" reply, CAN have been ar- ranged: Many aren't, of course, but — believe you us — quite a number are.
There's no particular evil in the practice! Out of the arrangements spring many gems of wisdom, or of worthwhile information and nobody is harmed in the process.
IT'S JUST THAT THE PRIN- CIPLES OF "DOROTHY DIX"
DO REALLY EXIST.
All of this masterly preamble is our introduction to the real pur- pose of this article. We publish for your amusement ( or so we hope ) some satirical examples of the cult of "Dorothy Dix", as published in an American maga- zine. The author doesn't claim that the questions are genuine.
He uses them to emphasize the humorous answers, (fitted to the question ), and to explode the false belief in the minds of inno- cent readers that both questions and replies are Honest-to-Gospel truths.
Here are some of the examples:
Question.
"Dear Miss Dix,
I am 23 years of age, and up to 5 years ago, was a great suf- ferer from bunions and corns.
Thanks to chiropody, however, I've not had any trouble for years, although my feet are still lumpy.
I've met a nice young man who is very fond of dancing and he keeps nagging at me to have an operation to straighten my feet, so we both can go to dances.
Should I have the operation.
Jennifer ( Milwaukee )".
Answer.
"In such a matter as this, we'd prefer to let sleeping dogs lie."
Question.
`Dear Dorothy,
I am very poor but all my friends consider me to be beauti- ful. Only recently I was intro- duced to the junior partner of the broker's office where I am em- ployed. He is young, handsome, single and very rich. He wants to become engaged immediately with a view to early marriage and six months' holiday, in either Florida, or Europe. Would you advise me to accept his offer.
Millie ( New York )".
Answer.
"The world is full of traps for the innocent and unspoiled, Millie. We'd suggest you should defer your decision for some
months. In the meantime, please let us have, in strictest confidence, the name and address of the young man."
Question.
"Dear Dorothy Dix,
My husband only has a modest income, and constantly complains of the monotony of his chowder meals. Could you supply me with a recipe for an inexpensive dish that would stimulate my hus- band's interest in what he eats.
Mrs. Kwildiggle ( Boston )".
Answer.
"My dear Mrs. Kwildiggle, one of the many services of this column is to provide little homely hints on menus that will certainly help to create a contented, and happy, home atmosphere. We have a recipe we can thoroughly recommend. It is called the Connecticut Cauldron, and it is as follows:—
Take three tender young chickens. Boil two of these until the meat leaves the bones, and bake the other over a slow char- coal fire. Season the baked chic- ken to capacity with a delightful combination of ii cup bread- crumbs, 3 large white onions, ( brown will do ), some parsley, three hard-boiled eggs, 1 dozen large peppers and a half-tin of caviar. Simmer the baked chicken in the boiled chicken stock for, at least, four hours. Garnish with one bottle of vodka, or overproof rum. Add these vegetables:—
spring onions, large piece of gar- lic, 1 dozen chillies, cabbage and French potatoes. Serve cold. Be sure to have an efficient fire extin- guisher handy.
Let us assure you, Mrs. Kwil- diggle, after such a course, your dear husband will never complain again at the monotony of his diet."
Question.
"Dear Dorothy Dix,
I am very worried about my husband's attitude towards me, and am forced to believe that he no longer loves me with his youth- ful ardor.
At least once in each of the past six weeks, his evening greet- ing has either been a kick in the ankle, or a blow in the face. Only last week-end, I noticed him sharpening the axe and eyeing me in a most peculiar way. Do you think I have reason to worry, and if so, what should I do to restore our former affection.
Honora ( Chicago )".
Answer.
"It could be, dear Honora, that your husband has a `caveman' complex and that his little out- bursts are but expressions of his deep love.
We wouldn't wait to ascertain this, however, and we strongly suggest any, or all, of the follow- ing courses:—
Buy a bigger, and sharper axe, and keep it handy at all times;
Learn Karate or Ju-jitsu im- mediately ( see our Classified Columns ) or
Go home to Mother."
Question.
"Dear Miss Dix,
I am 87 years of age, unmarried and very well endowed with the riches of this sinful world. Only recently I met a handsome, blonde-haired girl of 20 years and
— despite the small difference in
our ages — am quite sure she returns my affection. In her sweet desire to protect my interests, my dear one suggests that I should convert all of my property to cash and transfer the proceeds to her bank account. She makes this suggestion so as to prevent any designing female getting her hands on the property.
Should I do as my friend sug- gests. If so, would not U.S. Trea- sury bonds be preferable to a cash conversion.
`Lovelorn' ( Oregon )"
Answer.
"We can't recall the exact words of an old saying as the words elude us at the moment.
From memory, it goes like this:—
`There's no something-or-other like an old `something-or-other'.
It would be wise, dear 'Lovelorn', to consult a psychiatrist before making a final decision on your property. Should you still pro- ceed with the plan outlined by the dear girl, you should also avoid any further hazards like
Walking under ladders, Admiring views near a cliff
edge,
Crossing busy intersections, Taking part in mountain ram-
bles,
Eating meals prepared by your loved one.'
Question.
"Dear Dorothy,
My wife and I are a teeny- weeny bit worried about my boy's future. He is 18 years of age and full of boyish high spirits.
During the past year, he has burnt our hay-stacks, borrowed chickens from a neighbor's farm, wrecked our estate waggon after a most exhilarating contest with a police patrol car, defended himself with a broken bottle against a nasty local bully, and innocently allowed his friends to ply him with corn liquor.
Please tell us how we can stop our boy biting his nails, and also what career should we plan for his future.
`Worried Farmer' ( Salt Lake City )".
Answer.
Your anxiety, although under- standable, is without very strong foundation. In the future we see for your dear boy, the line of his career is clearly marked, and there is really little time for nail-biting on the rock pile."
Question.
"Dear Miss Dix,
A recipe has been handed down in my Southern family for many generations and is known to work wonders in cases of acute indiges- tion or rheumatics. The ingre- dients are —
1 quart rye whisky, 2 quarts Bourbon, 1 pint gin,
2 small pieces mint,
1 large bottle French cognac.
Mix briskly together and leave stand for 3 days in a cool place.
Drink one jug slowly or rub one cupful on the affected parts. I am sending you a sample bottle and would like your opinion on the mixture before seeking a license to sell from the County authorities.
`Hoc' ( Memphis )".
Answer.
"HIC-HOC".
