ARIA.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VIII, Issue 673, 30 May 1914, Page 5

ARIA.

Own Correspondent. The Aria district is losing the services of Mr W. S. Dempsey, headmaster of the district school, who has received promotion by being appointed to the Kio Kio school. To mark their appreciation of his efforts the Bettiers of the district and surrounding parts met him at a conversazione and dance on Friday night of last week in the Aria Hall. The attendance waa good and representative. Some indulged in a game of cards, but the greater number joined in a very enjoyable dance kept up to almoßt daylight. Mr C. E. West was M.C., and Mr Asplin, of Pio Pio, pianist. The ladieß provided the refreshments. Mr G. F Nelson, who had been chairman of th 9 School Committee during the two years Mr Dempsey had been in Aria, on behalf of a wide circle of friends presented Mr Dempsey with a handsome gold albert and pendant. In doing so, Mr Nelson enlarged upon the recipient's energy and zeal in the welfare of his pupils and of his mny good qualities generally. Mr P. D. Smvth also emphasised the loss the district was suffering, but joined with all others in wishing Mr Dempsey all future success and happiness. Mr Dempsey feelingly replied, and thanked the School Committee and parents for the help they had given him. He recognised they had drawbacks to contend with,but were warmhearted and did their best. In the school on Friday morning the school children presented Mr Dempsey with a travelling writing wallet. A very pleasing par* of both ceremonies was the interest and feeling displayed by the Maoris, adult; and children. Mr Marshall succeeds Mr Dempsey.