LOCAL EVENTS

Waipukurau Press, Volume XXII, Issue 20, 18 February 1927, Page 5

LOCAL EVENTS

VALEDICTORY. FAREWELL TO “KEN” STACE. There was a large attendance .at the meeting-room of the Fire Station, on Thursday evening last to bid’farewell to Mr Ken Stace on the eve of his departure .on transfer to Dunedin. During his stay in Waipukurau Mr Stace has been prominent in various sporting bodies, and his many friends wish him the best success in his new position.

The function took the form of a smoke concert. There was a lengthy list of toasts which were interspersed with songs and stories. Mr Wi A. Gordon occupied the chair and the proceedings were opened with the toast of “The King.”’ . - . Apologies were read from Messrs H. Gair, A. C. Holms, and W. Adams. The chairman explained the objects of the gathering and referred to the part Mr Stace had taken in the various sporting activities of the town, foot; ball in particular. He then called the toast, “Football : Clubs,” which was drunk with musical honors.

Mr Bridgeman responded to this toast on behalf of the Waipukurau Football Club and mentioned the loss the Club would sustain the loss 'of “Ken.” ...

Mr Glentworth said they were sorry to loose Mr Stace, although he was a member of a rival club. He was a good fellow, Snd he trusted he would join up with a good club and have the best of luck in his new position. Mr T. Spencer sang “So You’re Going to Leave the Old Home Again, Jim,” which was well received.

Mr Geo. Gibson proposed the toast “The Hockey Club,” which was responded to by Messrs Burkinshaw and Granger. A duet by Messrs Spencer and Brown was the next item on the programme, which was followed by a recitation by Mr T. Spencer. Mr Gordon proposed the toast of “The Guest,” and .mentioned that they all regretted his departure. He would be missed by his football club. He felt sure he would make a success in his football down South. He had also, taken a keen interest in cricket and swimming. Personally he had found Mr Stace a capable and genial officer and he .felt sure he would be missed by many personal friends who would regret his departure. He wished him the best of luck in Dunedin. His friends had decided [to give him a small token of appreciation, and on their behalf he handed the guest a cigarette holder and case. Mr T. Spencer endorsed the remarks of the previous speaker, and expressed the wish that he would prosper in his new sphere. Mr Stace briefly replied, thanking his friends for their kind remarks arid also for the' present. He would always carry pleasant memories of Waipukurau. Mr F. Scott, then entertained the gathering with a budget of songs and stories.

Mi* Vic. King proposed the toast of “The Ladies.” which was responded" to by Messrs K. McKenzie and J. Piki >

The toast of “Cricket and Kindred Sports,” was proposed by Mr Hodder and responded to by Mr Guy, who referred in glowing terms to the part Mr Stace had taken in sports in Waipukurau.

Mr E. Barnes rendered several selections, and Messrs Fulford, McKenzie, and Stace contributed songs, etc.'

A vote of/ thanks to the chair and the singing of Auld Lang Syne concluded a very" enjoyable evening.