50 years ago
EARLY estimates this week of damage caused by the freak storm in Hamilton last week put damage at the $20,000 mark. When all estimates are completed, including damage done to street works around the city, the final cost will undoubtedly soar beyond the present figure. Constituting a large part of this is the $10,000 worth of new carpet and paint needed for the George Hotel-Motel. Carpet ruined by the water was only just installed at a cost of $8,000 and now there is the problem of covering water stains in some of the upstairs rooms. The cost of damage to the house which had its roof blown off and the shed hit by a gum tree is estimated at $1500 each. The crane which was blown over at the SVC concrete works in Lodge R. was only slightly damaged and can be used again.