DISTRICT NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 April 1921, Page 7

DISTRICT NEWS.

RAHOTU. (From a Correspondent.) The Rev. C. Strand, Methodist mini'ster in charge of the Egmont Circuit for the past few years, Who has been transferred to the Gonville (Wanganui) Circuit, was accorded a farewell social on Wednesday night last in the Rahotu Methodist Church. There was a large attendance, including representatives of other denominations. Mr. Hurst (Pihama) occupied the chair. The musical part of the programme was contributed to by the Opunake Quartette —Mrs. McLean, Miss McLean and Messrs. T. P. Hughson junr., and Leslie; songs by Mrs. Leslie and Mr. M. Hughson, and a recitation by Mr. R. H Hughson. Mr. T. P. Hughson, sent., in making a presentation of a substantial cheque to Mr. Strand, expressed the very sincere regret of the members of the several congregations in the Circuit at his departure. In addition to having a large circuit to look after, Mr. Strand had taken an active part in all Christian matters pertaining to the welfare of the community, and the good results were in a large measure due to his organising- work. He also regretted Mrs. Strand’s departure, and expressed the wishes of those present that in their new work at Gonville Mr. and Mrs. Strand would have a very successful and happy time. Mr. Gibson, on behalf of the members of the Anglican Church expressed very sincere regret at Mr. Strand’s departure.

The Rev. Aker (Methodist minister), Mr. A. Pettigrew and Mr. T. P. Hughson, junr., fully endorsed the previous speaker’s remarks, stating that the members of the church were very sorry that Mr. Strand was leaving Egmont, Mr. Strand, who was received with applause, sincerely thanked the speakers for their kindly references to his work. As a minister he had. to make many changes, but no parting, had given him greater regret than the present one. He paid a tribute to the several workers with whom he had been associated. The gathering then sang the hymn, “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” after which light supper was handed round by the ladies. PUNGAREHU. (From Our Own Correspondent.) The Misses Lucy and Ruby Smith, of New Plymouth, paid’a visit to their old home in Pungarehu recently, and spent a pleasant two weeks’ holiday, being the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Heissenbuttle. Mrs. Martin, our postmistress, leaves on Monday, April 11, for Auckland, on holiday bent. Miss C. Keasberry, relieving postmistress, acts in her place. The rapid and sudden changes in the weather conditions have been responsible for a large number of severe colds amongst the younger people of the district. We had some acute cases of whooping cough last year, but provided proper care is exercised, no serious consequences need be feared. The first of a winter series of social dances to augment the funds of the Warea Hall Committee was held in the hall on Thursday evening, 7th inst. Warea is noted for its social evenings during the winter, sol that a good number of dancers and others were in attendance. The music was by Parker’s orchestra, which is always in favor with coastal dancers, Mr. M. Parker having charge of the floor. An excellent supper was provided, and much appreciated. Similar functions will be held fortnightly during the rest of the winter months. The Maori camp presented a picturesque appearance last week, when a tangi was in progress in connection with the Maoris who lost their lives in the drowning fatality on the coast. Throughout the few days a number of ceremonial welcomes were tendered to visitors.

The heavy rain on Thursday morn inc last was very welcome to the coastal farmers. Previous to this the spell of fine weather was responsible for a huge amount of clearing work being done. Firewood splitters are busily engaged on some of the Parihaka sections and, judging by rep&ts, good money is being made.

The swede crops are looking well all along the coast. Despite the fact that efforts per soft turnips have been made by the local farmers in an endeavor to keep the milk yield up, the supply is fast dwindling. It is to be hoped that the present slump in prices of stock and wool will not- long continue, and we look forward to see the Main South Road looking busy with qhoice fats on their way to the different works.