PRESENTATIONS.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 5210, 30 November 1927, Page 2

PRESENTATIONS.

ORPHANS HONOURED.

APPRECIATION OF MEMBERS.

At the Paeroa Orphans’ Club ladies’ evening, which was held at the Gaiety Theatre on Saturday night, the occasion was taken to make two presentations to well-known orphans. PRESENTATION TO BRO. CATER. The first gift wds made to Bro. G. F. Cater, conductor and organiser of the Auckland Orphans’ Club orchestra, by Bro. P. Williams, pregident of the local club. Bro. Williams said that that night, as on the occasion of the ladies’ night last year, the local members and their wives and friends had had the privilege of enjoying the music of the visiting orchestra, which was so ably conducted by Bro. Cater, The Auckland Orphans’ Club orchestra was renowned from one end of the Dominion to the other Its conductor, who was only recovering from a severe illness, had been at his post for eleven years, during which time he had brought the orchestra to its hf|h standard of proficiency, and in addition to giving considerable pleasure to hundreds of. people. Bro. Cater had won the esteem and confidence of those he controlled. It was the second occasion on which the Auckland orchestra had visited Paeroa and contributed a musical treat, and it was the sincere wish of the local members that the services of the conductor should receive same slight tangible recognition. On behalf of the local club the president asked Bro. Cater to accept a conductor’s batop, suitably inscribed, together with the best wishes of the Paeroa orphans. It was hoped that Bro. Cater would be speedily and permanently restored to his normal health and strength, and long be spared to wield his baton over his famous orchestra.

The presentation was followed by the singing of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” and prolonged applause.

In responding, Bro. Cater sa'd that he had been completely “knocked off his pins,” and was unequal to returning adequate thanks tor the presentation and eulogistic remarks accorded him. He said he was certainly there that night contrary to doctor’s orders, but had felt that he could not miss the Paeroa Orphans’ ladies’ night. Bro. Cater paid a sterling tribute to the personnel of his orchestra, and said that during his long term as conductor he had not experienced any friction or discord, and he was very proud of that fact. The unanimity and enthusiasm of the members had kept the orchestra in a state of efficiency, and in a position to dispense music and pleasure to others. He deeply appreciated the gift and would always treasure the baton and the kind expressions as long as he lived.

GIFT TO BRO. C. E. ANDREWS.

During the evening the opportunity was also taken to make a presentation to Bro. C. E. Andrew's, a foundation member and one of the vicepresidents of the. local club. In calling Bro. Andrews to accept a silver-mounted walking stick, suitably inscribed, Bro. Williams referred to the fact that the recipient would shortly be transferred to Auckland ow promotion. While; congratulating Bro. Andrews on his well-earned promotion, his loss to Paeroa generally, and to the club particularly, would be severely felt. He was not only a keen and excellent orphan, but was one of God’s greatest gifts—a white man. (Applause.) On behalf of. the members the president wished Bro. Andrews good health, continued success, and every happiness in his new sphere. Should he find at any time that he was able to pay a visit to Paeroa he could rely on a royal welcome. (Applause.) ' In acknowledging the gift Bro. Andrews, speaking reminiscently, said that when he had been appointed to Paeroa nearly six years ago he had only a hazy idea of the place. He did know, however, that it was one,' of the smallest towns in the Don; iron in which wap established a regimental headquarters. During his sojourn' here he had been privileged to make many friejids whom he would ever appreciate and remember. The speaker paid a tribute to the officers with whom he had been associated, and also to the Defence trainees of the district. Such associations had been among the most pleasant in his career. It had always been his aim to enforce the Defence law as easily as he could, yet at the same time perform his full duty. He would never forget Paeroa and the many sterling people he had met, and he did not "an-. ticipate making such splendid friends in the City of Auckland. Both Mrs Andrews and he were genuinely sorry to leave Paeroa, but the thought of visiting tlie town and renewing friendships at intervals in the future to some extent took the sting out of having to make their departure. In conclusion Bro. Andrews said that the walking-stick would be very useful to him, and would be highly valued, and he was deeply appreciative of the gift and the kind sentiments which accompanied it.