TAPANUI.

Otago Witness, Issue 2087, 22 February 1894, Page 22

TAPANUI.

February 19.— Great improvements are being made in the school grounds at present. The work of asphalting round the building has been entrusted to Mr James Borthwick, and there can be no doubt that it will be carried out in a business-like manner. A little asphalt round tha school will be a great boon to the children during the winter months, and the committee deserve the support of every parent in their enterprise in undertakingthe work. Picnic— The employees of the Kaitangata Coal Company held their annual picnic in Smith's Bush on Saturday. It was very largely attended by the public of Kaitangata and surrounding district. A number of the directors of the company were present, together with Mr Watson, general manager. The day unfortunately was not all that could be wished for, being very blowy with frequent showers ; but notwithstanding this all present seemed to enjoy themselves. A good programme of sports was gone through, for which the prizes were both valuable and handsome, Awhile various other games were indulged in with great gusto. The pleasure seekers arrived home about 630 very well satisfied with the day'B outing. Concert. — The concert to raise funds for the cricket club came off on Friday night, but the representatives of the press were not invited, so I cannot say anything about it.

Electric Lighting.— l heard a hope expressed that the mayor may call a public meeting of the ratepayers for the purpose of discussing the advisability of lighting the streets during the winter with electricity, if arrangements can be made with the two coal companies to supply the power. If the cost was not too great, and the dynamos were powerful enough, it would certainly be a great improvement on the present system. February 21.— Farmers are busy cutting down the golden grain. The weather is all that could be desired, and there is every probability of the crops being got in in splendid order. Temperance.— A fruit banquet and musical entertainment was held in the Temperance Hall on Thursday last, but owing to the entertainments on the two preceding nights it was not very well patronised. Mr A. Stead supplied the fruit fresh from the Teviot, and it certainly was a real treat. The musical part was also quite up to the average run of entertainments, the programme comprising sqloß, readings, duets, violin and concertina selections, &c. The string band was also present, and that in itself is a treat. The members are at all times ready with their services when called upon. Salvation Army.— The local corps of the S.ilvation Army are having what is generally termed " a big go," Captain Martin, of Gore, being in the meantime in command of the forces, assisted by a contingent from Riverton. Tho meetings have been well attended, and everyone seemed pleased to welcome back Captain Martin, who is a great favourite here.

Licensing Elections.— This subject has now become the principal topic of conversation, and in this electorate the contest will be fought to a finish. Both sides are now at work in earnest, and although the temperance party feel that they are heavily handicapped, yet they are confident of success. The Rev. W. J. Comrie is busy Etirring the people up on the questien.