OKAIAWA.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXXIV, Issue LXXIV, 21 October 1918, Page 4

OKAIAWA.

(From Our Own CorrespondeAt.) SEND-OFF AND WELCOME HOME.

The exceedingly wet and boisterous, afternoon and evening on Friday had the effect of keeping away many who otherwise would have been present at the social evening tendered to a number of our residents who are going into camp and also v to all returned men However, considering the circuml stances, there was a very fair muster. The first part of the evening was taken up with progressive euchre, the prizewinners being Mrs Ward and Mr Maha. The company then adjourned to the mam hall, where an enjoyable dance was held, the music for which was sup- y plied by Mr Strong, of Hawera. Dur- \ ing the evening the men going into camp, Messrs J. E. Meuli, W. Williams, W. Holhs, Watson Clarke, and Corporal S. Todd (on leave) were each, presented with a chest protector and a money belt, the latter being from the Women's Patriotic Committee. Mr A. Lees, in a short address, made the presentations, and also extended a hearty welcome to the returned men. Messrs L. Houlahan and 0. Crawford also made a few appropriate remarks. i Several of the recruits briefly returned thanks, and Mr Morgan Phillips replied on behalf of the returned men. The supper, which was excellent, was supplied by the Women's Patriotic Committee.

A LOCAL BOY HONORED. Word has just reached Okaiawa fhkiChief Motor Mechanic F. C Chivers son of Mr E. 0- Chivers, has been awarded the D.S.M. The young engineer, who was born in Okaiawa was offered a place in the British Navy shortly after the outbreak of the war, a chance which was eagerly taken advantage of, and he was placed in one of the patrol boats. He was jn one of the motor boats which took part in the attack on Ostend, and it was for his work upon that great occasion that the coveted honor was awarded him. Local residents extend their hearty congratulations to the young sailor, and also to his parents, for the distinction thus I gained.

DANCE. A dance is to be held on Tuesdayevening in aid of a fund to secure a' piano for the local school. Tickets havesold exceedingly well, and, given a fine night, a large attendance is assured.

FLOWER SHOW. _ The local *Presbyterian 6 have decided to hold a flower show in connection with their bazaar on December 4, and already have arrangements well under way. There is also to be a cow-judging competition for boys attending the public schools, for which Mr R. Linn, of Normanby, has .generously offered a gold medal for first prize, a local resident giving 10s for second. The showis well endowed with special prizes, there having been a liberal response to the canvass for same. A flower show is a new venture for Okaiawa, and no doubt will "catch on." Anyone requiring a schedule may obtain one on application to the secretary.

LABOR DAY ATTRACTION. The garden party at Holly Bank on Labor Day should draw a large crowd, as it is the only attraction in this^distnct on that day. The Manaia Municipal Band will be in attendance, and this, coupled with the various . stalls, competitions, etc., should provide a gay and attractive afternoon. The conjmittee extends a hearty invitation to returned soldiers and all men in uniform to be present. It should also be borne in mind that the funds are devoted to patriotic purposes, the committee at present being busy sewing for naval dependents. In this connection I might add that they would be grateful for donations of left-off clothing, as they are now packing a box for the purpose referred to.