TAPANUI.

Otago Witness, Issue 2387, 30 November 1899, Page 33

TAPANUI.

November 20. — A week of glorious weathei came tQ a break on Monday afternoon, and culminated it' a destructive hailstorm in portions of the district. After a very hot and oppressive day the 1 storm burst over Tapanui about 3 o'clock, accompanied by thunder and hail. In the immediate vicinity of the township hail like marbles fell for a few minutes and fruit trees and vegetables were literally cut to pieces. The storm appeared to be travelling in a narrow strip, for north and south of the district it was not felt at all. The rain which followed the burst will do a lot of good, and especially to newly-sown turnips. Show. — Active preparations are being made for the Farmers' Club show on the 15th December, and the committee have the arrangements for the annual exhibition well under way. The special imze list promises to be well supported, and there is every appearance of a successful show.

Political. — Politics are of course uppermost at present. The ex-member (Mr Thos. Mackenzie) has proved a fruitful topic of conversation where political critics assemble, and his retirement appears to be generally regretted. Notwithstanding the many candidates, and his lateness in entering the field, it was considered Mr Mackenzie would have had a very good chance of heading the poll, for in aIK quarters of this district he has a large following — a following that would vote "Tom Mackenzie" irrespective of party. From this it carAonly be eon/eluded that the old member's ability as 1 a politician is well thought of. Opinioiis arevariouj as to who will benefiymost by the dropping out of Mr Mackenzie, and the Government candidate seems to be Meeting with, a lot of encouragement. Mr Thomson had only a medium meeting at Tapanui o"n Saturday night, and th« chief feature ,of his address was a strong^denunciation of* tlia Premier's electioneering tactics and the expense thereby put upon the country, very few questions were asked, anc! the candidate received a vote of thank? and confidence. On the same night, Mr M'Leod spoke at Kelso and was well received, he too receiving a vote of thanks and confidence. It ia said that Tapanui is to be honoured with a visit from the Hon. J. G. Ward before the day of election, and if so there is certain to be a packed house to listen to him. After the Premier and Mr Ward, it will be appropriate to invite the •Governor along to see our district. Another Church. — On Sunday last a new Presbyterian Church was opened at Crookston by the Rev. W. Scorgie (Dunedin), and a fine morning induced a very large assembly of people. Mr Scorgie has many friends in the district, and liis able addresses were highly appreciated. The new • church is not of the modern ornamental order, but is substantial and roomy. The work was carried out by Mr Crawford, of Tapanui, and the Crookston people are to be congratulated in having erected such a convenient place of worship. On Tuesday evening a tea meeting was held, and during a week of evangelistic services in the Presbyterian Church at Tapanui Mr Scorgie will aeoist, so that all his old parishioners and friends will have an opportunity of seeing him. Improvements. — Our enterprising merchant (Mr G. T. Dawson) has just completed an addition to hip store in the shape of a prodn :e department. A concrete cellar, Bft deep, haa been, constructed, and the present building extended above it, so that the new place will store a large quantity of dairy produce and perishable goods. — At the courthouse also some improvements have been made. The grounds have been completely fenced and cultivated, the paths and" footpath asphalted, and the interior of the courthouse renovated, making the whole place more presentable than it has been since erected. Con-; stable Mathieson has seemed considerable im'prcveinentfl at the camp and courthpTise. since

coming here, and now has the whole property in good repair. Mayorail.— On Friday last Mr T. J. Quayle, a member of the Borough Council, was elected to the office of mayor without opposition. When the preaent mayor secured office, he announced that he considered it should be a rolling position, and consequently this year he» retired to allow sfiiieoue else to secure the honour. During Mr Burrell's term he has able filled the position, and has conducted the borough business in a straightforward and businesslike manner. In social matters and any public movement he has taken a leading part, and proved s most useful ofScial.