VALEDICTORY

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume LXVII, Issue 12825, 21 August 1939, Page 4

VALEDICTORY

PRESENTATION TO MU AND MRS AV. DUNTON The residents of Katikati and .surrounding districts tendered a farewell evening to Mr and Mrs W. Dunton in the Public Hall on AA r ednesday last. There was a large attendance, and a most cheerful atmosphere prevailed. A varied dance programme was gone through. Music was supplied by Mr Claude Grayling (piano), extras being rendered by Miss P leda Corbett (piano) and Mr A. McCracken (accordion), which were greatly appreciated. Mr Ken Holmes officiated as Master of Ceremonies. The Rev Mr Fussell gave a number of humorous anecdotes, which brought forth hearty applause. After supper was disposed of, several speakers expressed their profound regret at the departure of Mr and Mrs Dunton. Air R. J. Black, said he hoped Air and Airs Dunton would find Tanranga a congenial place, and would be very happy in their new home. He had known the Duntons for IT or IS years. They were citizens of the highest calibre, and at all times had assisted in the social activities of the district. Air Black then presented Mr and Airs Dunton with a beautiful chiming clock as a token of the respect and esteem of the people of the Katikati district. The singing of “They are Jolly Good Fellows,” was followed by ringing cheers. Mr Norman Blomquist, speakingin eulogistic terms, said he knew both Air and Airs Dunton as long as anyone in the room, even before they were .married. They belonged to a highly respected family. The Duntons were a great acquisition to the district. They took up land in the early days and Air Dunton’s farm today was a credit to the place. Air Dunton was every willing to do his neighbours a good turn, and whenever information or advice was required relative to stock and farming pursuits the words were, “Go to Billy Dunton.” Mr Dunton had been an active member of the Katikati Agricultural 'and Pastoral tion for many years and always took a leading part in all matters connected with the shown The Katikati Show’- to-day was considered one of the finest in the Bay, its success being mainly due to the untiring efforts of Air Dunton. On behalf of the people of the district Air Blomquist presented the guests with a cheque,' the gift being handed over amidst applause.

Mrs Owen Body spoke on behalf of the Women’s Division, and said she had very great pleasure in presenting Mrs Dunton, with a crystal vase from the Women’s Division. Mrs Dunton had always taken a keen interest and had helped in the movement’s activities. The speaker requested the recipient to accept the present in appreciation of her valued services to the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union, and with the best wishes extended by members. The Rev Mr Fussel expressed his regret at so many of Katikati’s leading people going away, and hoped that departures would cease. He spoke of the popularity of Mr and Mrs Dunton, who would be , sadly missed. However it was to be hoped they would like the new sphere into which they were going. Mr Dunton, in a few selected words, responded on behalf of his wife and himself. He thanked those present for their generous gifts, which were very much appreciated. Words could not express his gratitude.

The evening closed with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” and the National Anthem.