OKATO.

Taranaki Herald, Volume L, Issue 12461, 16 January 1904, Page 2

OKATO.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

On New Year's Day the Wesleyan Connexion held their annual picnic in Mr Carey's paddock, a goodly, number from all parts of tho district attending. A concert was also given in trn evening, when the church - was well filled. Items were contributed by Messrs G. H. White and H. White, Miss Corbett, Miss Humphrey, Messrs McTsaacs, JT. J. Englefield* S. M. Englefield, and .Robinson. Al the closo of the concert light refreshments wore served, which brought to a close a very enjoyable day. On the same day the Wanderers came out from town, and met the local cricket club's /irst eleven, the game resulting in the Wandorers win-

inmg by about 70 runs on tho first 'innings. On Saturday, the second eleven, who are better known as "The Okato Boncers," met the Warea team, and also suffered a crushing defeat, but the game was a very interesting one. Captain Lowe was successful in negotiating two difficult catches, and the iielding of Holbern was also a very pleasing feature o, the game. Owing to Tuesday evening, the sth, being wet, the reception to be tendered to Messrs F. Gill and Ducfcer did not eventuate until the following evening, when tke Okato school was full, which justly shows that the services rendered to the district l.v these gentlemen in their respective spheres, have been appreciated. Itfr JVjce made a short address of welcome, Mr Gill and Mr Ducker gallantly lesponding, after which supper was served, when dancing was kept going till about 2 a.m., everyone thoroughly; enjoying themselves. On Tuesday evening a meeting was held in the Puniho School for the purpose of electind a Native School Committee for the following year, Mr W. Gray presiding, but owing to the Maoris being away grass seeding, there was only one Maori representative present. Mr Gray, in conjunction with Mr Clements, the teacher, thought it advisable to let the thing stand over until about the Ist February, and notify the Government to that effect. It seems rather unfortunate that the Maoris should be so indifferent in this matter, seeing that they have got such a good school and stfch an excellent teacher in Mr Clements.

lam glad to report progress regarding the Okato hall. The building is now commenced, and the opening of the same will be about the 3rd March, which will be celebrated by a fancy dress ball. The bazaar is to be held the following month — April. It is gratifying to know that the hall is now a certainty, and the members of the committee who have stuck lo the thing (financially) and seen it through to such a successful issue deserve the thanks of the whole district.