RANGIATEA PUBLIC HALL.

Waipa Post, Volume XII, Issue 586, 20 October 1916, Page 3

RANGIATEA PUBLIC HALL.

OffltlAL OPENING CEREMONY.

The new hall at Otorohanga was officially opened by Mr J. A. Young, M.P., on Wednesday in the presence of a large gathering of settlers of Rangiatea, Otewa, Maihiihi, Mangaronga, and other parts of Waikato and King Country. The function, which marked the opening of a much-needed meeting place, was a very welcome one in the district, as the accommodation provided in a new hall adequate to the requirements of the place had been anxiously awaited. The proceedings opened with the spirited singing of the National Anthem and the very creditable playing of an overture by the Rangiatea orchestra.

Mr J. A. Young, M.P., who was enthusiastically received, congratulated the district not merely on the possession of a fine public meeting place, but also on the very evident signs of prosperity on every hand. The settlers who went out into the hack blocks and, by their industry and enterprise, brought the land into a state of productivity and changed a scene of desolation into a rich and smiling countryside, were performing a national duty in that the prosperity and advancement of this country were chiefly dependent upon the full development of its latent agricultural resources. The function ho was about to perform was of importance to the district. It had been truly said that recreation should find a place in the lives of every man and every woman, and so in every community there were established recognised places for the people to meet for social entertainment and healthful recreation. While the new building would serve this very valuable purpose in the district, it had a deeper significance; the new and comfortable hall stood as indisputable evidence of the progress that was taking place and of the enterprise of the settlers and their confidence in themselves and in their district. Mr Young then, amidst much applause, declared the hall open. t A very entertaining programme of vocal and instrumental items, which followed the official opening, was very mucli enjoyed, and each of the performers was loudly applauded, and encores were frequently demanded. Songs were given by Mrs Birchall and Messrs J. A. Young, Sutherland, and Meagher; recitations by Miss Somerville and Mr O’Hara, and orchestral items by the Rangiatea orchestra. Mr R. S. Sireombe, who presided, on behalf of the district thanked Mr Young for his attendance, and also thanked all those who had assisted towards tlie success of the evening s arrangements.