VALEDICTORY.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 49, Issue 14884, 23 March 1923, Page 6

VALEDICTORY.

PRESENTATIONS TO MR MASON. A fitting farewell was given in the Municipal Hall last night by a large audience to Mr W. J. Mason, general secretary of the local Y.M.C.A., who, with Mrs Mason, is shortly leaving Masterton to take up new work in Wellington. His Worship the Mayor (Mr O. N. C. Pragnell) presided. Mr Mason, who inaugurated community singing in Masterton last winter, led the sing. Miss E. Ball supplied the accompaniments. The Mayor made Mr Mason three presentations. Before handing over the articles, the Mayor said he regretted having to preside at the function, because it became his duty to say goodbye, on behalf of the citizens, to a man who had justifiably won the adulation of the citizens of Masteiton. Mr Mason had not worked and lived for one society or institution, but had been a live community man, and by losing a man .of his calibre and tenacity of purpose Masterton was losing one of its richest assets. His Worship was sure that Masterton would miss Mr _ Mason, and it was the test of nn} r citizen if his departure urns noticed to any extent. Masterton would miss his enthusiasm and ability, but though his departure would be a distinct loss to this community, Wellington would benefit by the inclusion of an estimable community man. Mnstertonians could not but recognise Mr Mason’s splendid work in .some tangible manner, and also to Mrs Mason they owed their respects for the sacrifices she had made while Mr Mason was pursuing his community work. On behalf of the citizens, IDs Worship wished Mr and Mrs . Mason best wishes and every success in their new sphere. Mr Mason was then presented with a substantial roll of notes from the citizens of Masterton, a pocket wallet from the Park Tennis Club, and an ‘‘ Eversharp ’’ pencil from the Masterton Harrier Club. Attached to the latter was the following inscription: “To Mr Mason, in appreciation of his work in connection with the boys, and .of his ready courtesy and willing assistance at all times. Wishing him every success in his new field of labour, and trusting that he will never bo too busy to sometimes think of the Masterton Harriers.” Mr T. F. Watson, chairman of the Y.M.C.A. Board of Managers, expressed regret on behalf of his board at Mr Mason’s departure. Mr Mason had developed the community spirit to a high degree, and everything he had exerted himself in had been a success. When Mr Mason first came to Masterton the Y.M.C.A. was down, and he said he would put it right, and he did so.

Mr Mason suitably replied. The function terminated with the singing of the National Anthem.