AHUROA.

Rodney and Otamatea Times, Waitemata and Kaipara Gazette, 26 February 1941, Page 7

AHUROA.

(Own Correspondent.)

School Fund Dance

Extensive work has been carried out on school ground improvements, etc., with the assistance of an Education Board grant. ■ Funds, however, were not sufficient to complete the necessary work and a dance to raise further money was held on Friday, 21st inst. The result of the evening's proceedings was satisfactory and although the crowd did not bum out in full force, it was nevertheless fairly well supported. Local musicians supplied the music and dancing continued until after midnight. A hearty supper was provided by the ladies. During the evening numerous prizes were awarded in competitions, including a "mystery prize." The evening .concluded by the musicians striking up- the National An them.

Home Guard

The local platoon of the Home Guard is makieg satisfactory progress. A weekly'parade has been held for several months. Some of the older men who have had very little or no experience in military training during their young manhood have picked it up quickly and satisfactorily. The platoon is under the command of Commander T. O. L. Jenkins, assisted by platoon-sergeant C. F. Berger. Every effort is being made to continue with the weekly parade. It is understood that probably a "centre" parade will be held at a later date, that is to say, the various platoons in outlying districts will assemble in WatUworth for a day's parade.

White Blackbird

The unusual appearance a few days ago of a flock of approximately four hundred blackbirds, accompanied by a solitary "white blackbird," is quite an uncommon sight. The white blackbird seemed to be quite at home mingled with its many fellowmates, who took no exception to "snowy." This flock appeared about two years ago, accompanied by "snowy" and disappeared again until recently. They have, however, disappeared again and may pay another visit on some future date.

Dairying

Prior to the heavy downpour about six weeks ago dairy production had dropped considerably due to the dry spell which had prevailed for some time. The welcome rajj? freshened up parched and short pastures and growth was vigorous, with the result that dairy production was maintained longer than would have been the case otherwise. The prolonged dry spell, however, which again exists is giving the dairy herds a 'knock-buck' and when fain does come it will be most welcome, not only from a dairying point of view* but wiJl help to freshen up pastures for the forthcoming winter.