DISTRICT NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 20 June 1916, Page 3

DISTRICT NEWS.

. TATAR AiMAK A. Cows now are both dear and scarce. What the price will be later on gives food for thought. Two more of our neighbors have recently left, one for the front and for Trentham. An evening was tendered to Mr. Kimber by the Indies of the district at Mr. Bridge's residence. As Mr. Kimble already possessed a wristlet watch and a fountain p?n. a pocket book was presented io hiiu l>y his neighbors. Mrs. Dougherty, who i.ude the presentation, voiced the univer. al feeling of regret in the district U«: one who had been so generous towards everything got up in Tataraimaka should have to leave us. A pleasant evening was spent playing games, musical items and listening to some well-sung songs. A dainty supper was provided by the Tataraimaka

ladies. The thoroughly representative meeting broke up with best wishes for their young guests' welfare, and prayers for a safe return.

I think dairying people in Taranaki don't wish to haggle over the price of cheese. They will, I feel sure, be satislied with a fair price. What outsiders don't understand is that they would be content with a smaller price provided the (.ioverniiient took over the lot—wool meat, butter and cheese—but when tin "woollies" get oil' scot free the dairying people naturally resent it. Why do not the Government take the lot, stock, lock and barrel, especially the lastnamed?

To me there seems but one way of ending the shameful drinking which goes on, and that is by State control. England has given us the lead —lost since Scddon's time. Surely this formerly democratic country will not be afraid to follow the example set by the Old Conntry? Women and men. 100, have been only wasting their time fi>r years trying te get what is impossible t" get in New Zealand at i.e. total prohibition. Now is the time for the National Ministry to justify its existence and eliminate private profit from the sale c of liquor. It i- too heavy a responsibility to place on the publicans' shoulders, the keeping alike of men's purses and men's health ami sanity. As the Government has neither body to be kicked nor a soul to be damned they could better stand the racket.

At the farewell social given to Mr Turchio on his leaving for Trontham everything went off splendidly. Sir. Oyde presented him with a wristlel »'»' '> and eulogised his many good oi!H'.lic<. as also did Mr. Crockett, Mr. D. Hughes and Mrs. Dougherty. Mr. said he had leased Mr. Turchie's farm on a purchasing clause, but that if he wished it -back on his return he (Mr Hughes) would give it him again, A bounteous supper was served. Yr. Barnett provided the music. Songs were rendered hv Mesdames C. Houeyficld and Lynn and Mr. Murdock, Mr. W. I'.aey gave a rec'l.aHon, while Mr. T Morris acted as M.C. in his usual -best, manner. The evoninir finished up by singing "Auld Lang Syne" and the National Anthem, and everyone crowding round Mr. Turcliie to wish him God-speed and a safe return. The whole district ivill miss Frank Turchie. but the Red Cross Mart in New (Plymouth will miss him most, for he gave to them with an unstinting han& PI'RANG! (From Our Own Correspondent! A social and "dance was held in the Furangi Hall on Monday evening. 12th inst. to bid farewell to Private "Billy" Tume, who was home on final leave before leaving with the next Maori Reinforcements. Music was supplied by Messrs Field (aceordeon) and Hanover (piano), whilst Mr. H. L. Dowman acted as M.C. in his usual pifinstaking manner. Extras' were played hv Messrs George and Fischer, also by Miss Winnie Hu and Miss Tume. At intervals during the dances songs were rendered by the following:—Misses Wilkes, Aro Pu'e and Mr. and Mrs. Hanover, each receiving an encore. Visitors were present from Tarata and Urenui. Before supper Mr. Hanover, on behalf of the settlers, presented 'Private Tume with a wristlet watch, and in doing so said that Private Tume would be greatly missed, as he was always ready anil willing to help in anything for the welfare of the district. Private Tume suitably acknowledged the gift. The committee desire to thank Misses Webb and Wilkes and Mrs. Hanover and others who contributed to the success of the evening. The singing of Auld Ling Syne" and "For he's a jolly good fellow" concluded the evening. Mrs. Webb, who has been visiting ner mother at New Plymouth, has returned home.