Women’s Institutes

Manawatu Times, Volume 56, Issue 69, 21 March 1940, Page 3

Women’s Institutes

Tho district group rally was held in the Ohakea hall recently, and there was a good attendance of delegates. Mrs. W. G. Robinson occupied tho chair and the convenor was Mrs. Watt (Marion junction). Discussion took place as to the time and venue of next meeting, and it was finally left to be decided at the next federation meeting. During the afternoon items were rendered by Mesdames Eyles and Ellery( Bulls). Mrs. Gregory (Marton Junction), gave a short talk, and an address was given by Mrs. A. K. Drew (Sanson). Competitions were held during the afternoon, the winners being:—Madiera cake, Mrs W. Pearce (Sanson), I, Mrs. Roberts (Sanson), 2, Miss Fergusson (Holcombe), 3; hand-sewn nightdress, Miss Fergusson (Halcombe), 1, Mrs. Slight (Marton Junction), 2, Mrs. Franks 3; felt work, Mrs. Watt (Marton Junction), 1, Mrs. Humphrey (Marton Junction), 2, Miss Osborne (Parewanui), 3. A trading stall did good business. The Ohakea institute acted as hostesses and entertained the visiting delegates to 'afternoon tea.

Highly respected residents of the district in the persons of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Frecklington. were farewelled last Friday on the eve of their departure for Rotorua where they will reside in future. There was a largo attendance of residents, and general regret was felt at the departure of such a popular couple. Mr. Frecklington has allied himself with all movements for the welfare of the district since taking up his residence and in particular, took a keen interest in hall affairs, being chairman of the hall committee. Mrs. Frecklington had also done her share of work in the district, and in particular was instrumental in the formation of the local women’s institute of which she was president for a number of years. A happy evening was spent in cards and dancing, and after supper, M r. K. Vile on behalf of the residents, asked Mr. and Mrs. Frecklington to accept a chiming clock as a mark of appreciation of their work, and as a slight token of the esteem in which they were held. Mrs. W. Robinson on behalf of the women’s institute, presented Mrs. Frecklington with a float bowl. Mr. and Mrs. Frecklington both thanked those present for organising tho function, and for the gilts which would find a foremost place in their new home and remind them of the happy times they had spent in the district. Music for dances was contributed by Mr. 11. McKinnou and the winners at cards were Mrs. H. Masters and Mr. J. Ellery.

The school committee held a further meeting on Friday night to make final arrangements for the school picnic next week. Mr. Vile presided and there were present: Messrs 11. Ellery, J. Capstick, L. Ivoberstein, R. Bartlett, and tho headteacher. The balance sheet showed a substantial credit which however will rapidly disappear when proposed improvements are proceeded with. It was decided to have the school grounds cut and prepared for the picnic.. The programme of races was left to the headteacher to draw up, and offers of trophies for these were received. Tho usual supplies of fruit and lollies and ice-cream will be provided. It was decided to present a book to tho pupils of the lower classes, and to purchase toys for the tiny tots. The Director of Education (Dr. C. E. Beeby), visited the school on Monday and inspected tho buildings and grounds. He briefly addressed tho children. Mr. B. N. T. Blake (Senior Inspector of Wanganui Education Board), also visited the school and discussed the school activities with the staff.

The arrival of a March lamb on the property of Mr. H. Masters lias been duplicated with the arrival of a second lamb. The lastest arrival is thriving .well.