AWATUNA.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXII, Issue LXII, 31 July 1911, Page 6

AWATUNA.

[FROM (TOE OWN CORRESPONDENT.}

The farewell social given to Mr and Mrs Parkes and family, who are leaving the district for Opunake, was the most successful and enjoyable event that has been held for some time. The hall, tastefully decorated, was taxed to its utmost to accommodate the large number present, but the inconvenience was en-' tirely overcome by the prevailing feeling of goodf ellowship. An excellent programme was provided, opening with a selection by the Edlin Orchestra. Dancing intermingled with songs and duets formed the chief items of amusement. The songs, etc., were of excellent quality, well rendered by Misses Cooper, Hammond, and Penfold, and Messrs Coombridge, Phillips, Pickering, Stanford, and Walters. The glee by the Awatuna Glee Club was also very good.

The- presentation, consisting of a case of pipes for Mr Parkes, a handsome silver tea-set for Mrs Parkes, and a gold chain and locket to Miss Parkes was made by Mr Surrey, who, in a short speech, expressed the regret of all present at losing so prominent a settler, at the same time thanking them for their very active assistance in everything connected with the welfare of the district.

The spontaneous outburst of applause which endorsed his remarks plainly showed the feeling of affection and respectf with which they are esteemed. Mr Parkes ably and suitably replied on behalf of the family. Votes of thanks were heartily given to the chairman (Mr Surrey), the secretary (Miss Powell), and the committee; also to the ladies and gentlemen who contributed so ably towards the enjoyment of the evening, and to the ladies who assisted with the supper. At the conclusion of the programme all joined in singing "Auld Lang Syne."