The Press., 1884-05-01
LETTER FROM CALIFORNIA.
Pomona, Los Angeles co., Cal, April Is,

Pomona, Los Angeles Ce., Cal, April Is, 's4.
 THE PRESS Having returned from Los where an exceedingly pleasant and profitable week has been spent at the annual Teachers Institute, find on re- view many things to write about, and though it is unnecessary to go outside of Pomona for new subjects of interest (for ''the half has not been told'), desire to speak of the city of Angels, and especially the interesting meetings held at the nor nal school building, which building has been erected at the cost of some above $50, O,0OO.
 The city survived the deluge wonderful ly, and the rapid growth seems not in the least retarded. Ornamental gardening is more beautiful than ever. As we passed the streets we observed on either side that geraniums and heliotrope climbed far above the windows, and German and Eng lish ivies mount the highest trees. Some arbors that arch the walks are entirely covered with roses, inseparably intermin- gled with ivy. It is very unusual to see green lawn, yet this city will not do with out them. Palm, banana, and magnolia trees are among those noted for beauty in almost every yard.
 While there is so much to be said in praise of this garden city, am forced to say that was surprised and 'saddsned to witness so much intempsrance and Sab bath breaking. Innumerable saloons of all kinds are kept open on Sunday through the day and evening, and all kinds of peo- pie gather to patronizs the alcohol dealer.
 As I returned from church through Main-st. in the evening heard music, and inquiring why such music was being play ed at that time, was answered that a dance was going on within and that it was not g rare amusement for Sunday.
 There are decidedly two classes of peo- pie in every place. Perhaps the Mexicans Spaniards, Chinese, and Indians will con- stitute the majority of people, and the low CT class but while the better class are in the minority, the quality of this class of people will fully meet the demand for high society and right living, and without ex- ception this class last mentioned cannot be equalled, all things considered.
 On Monday morning, April 7th, one hundred and sixty-fve teachers gathered on Science Hill to listen to wise lectures, essays, and discussions by different mem- bers of that body, on the old subjects of how and what to teach. First, measures were taken to introduce the temperance text book into all schools but it was strongly opposed by some, especially by one of the board, who stated he expected to make SO,OOO gallons of wine this year from his own vineyard. The question was then laid on the table. After discussing the subjects of Hygeine and Botany in or der, the next paper following, on ''The Teachers Opportunity for Developing Manhood in Boys," was delivered by Prof. F. B. Little of Pomona, for which he re- ceived great applause. This closed the program of the first day. Teachers re- ception in the evening. The decoration of the hall reminded me of what the Son. CTS correspondent said about callas few few weeks ago. Instead of two or three standing alone in peerless beauty, there were three urns set upon a mound of green in which counted over hundred callas that were from three to five feet high, ar- tistically arragned. The pillars in the cen- ter of the were wound with callas and ivy. The chandeliers supported profusion of pampas grass that seemed lighter than air, and ready to be borne away by the heat, as it was ever in motion. Suspended bas- kets were filled with the choicest roses and orange blossoms, which were highly pleas ing to the olfactory nerve. At ten o'clock fruit and ice cream took the place of mu- sic and platform speeches. Later the band was broken, each member declaring that the teachers profession was not SO dis agreeable after all. On following days the subjects "School government" |" "False re- form in education" Public opinion fac tor in education. D ssTeachers' relation to tho community "school trustees" etc., were ably discussed by different teachers.
 It seemed to me that no one could listen these prepared essays and impromptu opinions for six days, and not digest some good methods for future use, and there fore improve in the noble work. Noble did say? Yes, would ask young teach CTS especially if they feel the rssponsibil- ity resting upon them when thy stand be- fore their pupils. For indeed they are re- sponsible largely for tho lives of every boy and girl, young men and young women, that looks to them daily for direction and Isn't it true ''that as soon as the boy is taken from the mothers knee and handed over to bis teacher, duty is dsvolved upon that teacher that even an gels might tremble to undertake?' A influence may be slow in reach ing the desired results, but as the circle that widens from the stone thrown into the water, so will the influence of teach or widen even to the shores of eternity.
 At the close of this institute the reas- surance came that California could boast of her schools. Teachers must work, and $75, $90, and $1OO per month are the re- wards for the services rendered.
 To be continued in next issue.
 Respectfully, EMMA A. LEE.