Fisherhaven | Hawston | Kleinmond | Bettysbaai | Pringlebaai | Rooi-Els
Year 2 • Tuesday 10 July 2012 | Tel. 028 312 3717
Scenes from the National Geographic documentary, Big Baboon House.
IMAGES: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
Baboon film slated HEDDA MITTNER The furore that erupted last week over National Geographic’s filming of its Big Baboon House documentary in Pringle Bay continues unabated, with most of the regional daily and national Sunday newspapers featuring major stories about this controversial issue. Even the Carte Blanche team have visited the area, and their report will be aired on M-Net on Sunday evening. The controversy started after clips of the documentary were viewed on the National Geographic website. According to Bernard Heydenrych, chairperson of the Pringle Bay Conservancy, there is an unmistakable link between the “unethical” methods employed to lure the baboons into the residential area and the change that has been observed in the baboons’ behaviour. Whereas before the baboons tended to enter homes where doors or windows had been left open, break-ins have increased dramatically over the last year. A statement released by National Geographic explains that the object of the documentary was “to observe the behaviour of
free-ranging baboons in and around the houses with the purpose of better understanding how humans and baboons may better coexist”. To this end they used a modified cottage on the premises of the Hangklip Hotel near Pringle Bay, where cameras were installed to observe the baboons’ activities. Although the channel has denied luring the baboons into the house, claiming the baboons entered it “of their own volition”, Heydenrych says it is obvious from the clips that the house was well-stocked with food, and that the baboons had easy access through open doors and windows. “What it boils down to is the feeding of wild animals, plain and simple.” As part of the documentary, various tests were devised to observe the baboons’ behaviour. “This involved stepping up the security of the house to see how the baboons would manage to gain access, and in fact trained them to break-and-enter homes in the area,” Heydenrych says. Wayne Kruger, area manager for ASK Security in Pringle Bay, confirms that there has been a change in baboons’ modus operandi. “Whereas the baboons have been guilty of opportunistic theft in the past, they now seem to have learnt new ways of break-
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mit for the filming of baboons on municipal property on 7 October last year,” Krige says. “In the application the producer of the documentary, Darren Putter, gave his assurance that only the natural behaviour of baboons would be filmed by experienced wildlife filmmakers. It is regrettable that their conduct did not live up to this undertaking.” Krige goes on to say that the film crew did not need a permit from the municipality to film the baboons in the house as it is on private property. The municipality’s department of environmental management services is currently investigating the matter and considering taking steps against the film producer to prevent similar incidents in the future. The newly established Pringle Bay Baboon Action Group – an initiative of Pringle Bay Conservancy – is busy with a baboonmonitoring project with the help of 28 volunteers. An auction with cheese and wine was held on Saturday evening at the Pringle Bay community hall to raise funds for the project. According to Heydenrych there was overwhelming support, and the event was attended by well-known locals such as Louis van Heerden and Evette Weyers. . Also see page 3.
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ing in. We get about three to five calls per day, and most of them are because of baboons. They are now capable of lifting sliding doors off their hinges, and I have even had a case where an alpha male managed to break through a security gate.” Lisel Krige, ward councillor, says she “condemns and denounces the so-called research project in the strongest possible terms”. “Their interference was cruel and irresponsible,” she says. “After they had finished conducting their so-called experiments, they upped and left the area, while we have to suffer the consequences. It is only to be expected that the baboons will continue the behaviour they have learnt – they cannot suddenly unlearn it. “The result is that we now have individual ‘problem’ animals who are leading by example, and the rest of the troop is following suit. I am appalled that National Geographic – as a nature-oriented organisation – could not foresee the far-reaching and tragic consequences of its conduct.” According to Fanie Krige, spokesperson for the Overstrand Municipality, it is impossible not to link the baboons’ behaviour with the methods used in the production. “Overstrand Municipality issued a one-day per-
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Kleinmond Gazette
SARS comes to Hermanus Officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will be in Hermanus today (Tuesday) to assist taxpayers with all SARS-related enquiries, including tax clearance, status checks with SARS, new registrations, completion of tax returns, and general queries. You can find them from 09:00 to 15:00 at the Moffat Hall in Mount Pleasant. Taxpayers should take the following documentation with them: For registrations ) original certified copy of ID; and ) proof of income (for example, a copy of IRP5 certificate, payslip or investment statement, et cetera). For completion of tax returns ) income tax reference number; ) copy of IRP5 and IT3(a) certificates; ) medical aid tax certificate; ) receipts of medical expenses not recovered by the fund; ) retirement annuity certificate; ) logbook (for travel allowance received); ) investment income (IT3(b) certificate); and ) breakdown of additional income (for example, rental income).
General - Algemeen
Tuesday 10 July 2012
Gazette website goes live today! Our brand new website went live this morning – and we’re waiting for you to join our online community over at www.bolandgazette.co.za! Starting today, you can view news from your own community online, with news from neighbouring Boland communities, videos and photo galleries the added bonuses. And you’ll be able to comment on articles, vote in our weekly opinion polls and enter the competitions that will be added regularly. So don’t miss out – visit us weekly. Just remember that you’ll have to register as a user to participate. “What excites me the most about our new website is the fact that we now have even more ways to engage with our readers,” says the Gazette group’s editorial publisher, Annelien Dean. “The media are all about communication and connection, and our website just expands on opportunities to hear more from our readers and connect with them in a very relevant way. “I want our readers to please use the website to share news, photos and videos with us. Some of this will be carried into
If you register as a user on our website and enter our online competition this week, you will stand the chance of winning two nights’ accommodation for two, valued at R4 150, at the Quarters Hotel in Hermanus. The winner and their partner will not only stay over in a popular holiday destination on the Whale Coast, but will also enjoy a complimentary breakfast and cheese platter and wine on arrival – an ideal whale season breakaway. Quarters Hermanus is located on the historic Hermanus Harbour and features nine tastefully decorated, modern suites, each including a separate lounge and kitchenette, and nine rooms with splendid views of the mountain cliffs or the magnificent ocean below. Balconies are guaranteed for every suite, as well as selected standard rooms, while the many modern room amenities ensure an easy stay. A tasteful pool area, conference facilities for up to 45 delegates, Internet and email services and laundry services add to the comfort guests can enjoy. Guests who’d like to treat themselves to something extra can select luxuries such as inroom spa treatments or dining, or even babysitting services on request. Visit www.quarters.co.za, phone 0 028 313 7700 or send a mail to 2 reservations@quartershermanus.co.za. the newspaper, so that we foster communication between our print and online readers. “I am super excited – and I trust our readers will be, too, when they see our
BIBC sessions
Flautist at the Civic At 15:30 on Sunday afternoon, 22 July, Overstrand Arts/Kunste (OAK) has a treat in store for lovers of the flute. Well-known flautist Liesl Stoltz will be accompanied by Farida Bacharova on the violin and Albie van Schalkwyk on the piano in concert in the Civic Auditorium in Hermanus. They will be playing an interesting programme of the following lesser known works such as Sonata in C Major by JS Bach, Madrigal Sonata by Bohuslav Martinu, Suite en Trio Op. 59 by Mel Bonis, Five Pieces, Op. 56 by César Cui, Deux Interludes by Jacques Ibert and Trio by Nino Rota. Book at Bellini Gallery on 028 312 4988. Tickets are R100 (R50 for students) and will also be available at the door if not sold out. Phone René du Plooy on 082 940 4238 for further enquiries.
Well-known flautist Liesl Stoltz will be accompanied by Farida Bacharova on the violin and Albie van Schalkwyk on the piano in concert in Hermanus on 22 July.
10 July: The Oude Molen Movie House will present A Shine of Rainbows at the Oude Molen Distillery in Grabouw. The night kicks off with a dinner followed by coffee/tea and then the movie. Supper is served at 19:15 and the movie starts at 20:00. Cost R100 pp. Contact Dre Johnson on 082 379 2623 or email rooikom-
website!” Feel free to contact us with your feedback and contributions by clicking on the appropriate links at the bottom of the page.
The Building Industry Bargaining Council (BIBC) of the Cape of Good Hope, which now also includes the Overstrand Municipality, has launched a series of information sessions to take place in July 2012. Following the announcement that as from 1 November 2012 all building and related contractors in the Overstrand Area must comply with the Building Industry Bargaining Council’s Employment Conditions, the Council has launched an awareness drive as part of their roadshow. This is an open invitation which is aimed at all employers in the building industry and serves to inform the industry of their rights and obligations. The first meeting will take place on Tuesday 10 July in the Kleinmond Town Hall, in the Main Road, followed by a session on Wednesday 11 July in Hermanus at the Auditorium, Overstrand Municipality (opposite library), Magnolia Street, and the last information session in this series will take place on Tuesday, 17 July in Gansbaai at the Golf Club, Perlemoen Street, Kleinbaai. All sessions will start at 18:00. Interested parties should reply to Ilse Slabbert, of the Building Industry Bargaining Council, on 021 950 7415 or via email at islabbert@bibc.co.za. The Building Industry Bargaining Council (Cape of Good Hope) Collective Agreement presently oversees the Cape Peninsula, Paarl, Wellington, Somerset West, Strand, Stellenbosch, Darling, Malmesbury and the Overstrand. For more information, visit www.bibc.co.za or phone 021 950 7400.
buis@mweb.co.za for more information and bookings. On 17 July they will screen The Artist. 27 Julie: Kiekieklub-lede se inskrywings vir die kompetisie “Lyne” moet nie later nie as 12:00 ingehandig word nie. 31 Julie: Die Kiekieklub vergader 19:00 in die biblioteeksaal. Sue Stuckie sal ’n ding doen oor die donkiestap in die Gamkaskloof. 23 August: The Hangklip Library will host a Kids Can presentation by Hannalie Quass at 10:30.
HEERLIKE STEMME:Die Voices for Christ-damesgroep van Tygerberg bekoor gehore oral oor met hul wye musikaliteit – van solos, duette, viertal- en groep-items tot liedjies gesing in a capella-styl of begelei/ saam met agtergrondmusiek. Hulle tree Saterdag 21 Julie om 17:00 in die Kleinmondstadsaal op. Toegang is gratis en CDs sal ná afloop van die program te koop aangebied word. Hier is (agter van links) Leonie Cloete, Amanda Beukes, Marinda Wallace; (voor) Elsabé Genade, Gerda van Biljon en Linda Coetzee.
Tuesday 10 July 2012
News - Nuus
Kleinmond Gazette
3
Questions to National Geographic With National Geographic alluding to the scientific benefit of their Big Baboon House documentary–experiment, Kleinmond Gazette was curious about a few things and posed these questions to Thandi Davids, head of marketing and sales for National Geographic Africa. Gazette: National Geographic stated: “Two scientists with expertise in baboon behaviour assisted with the design of the tests and appeared in the show.” Is one of these scientists Justin O’Riain, head of UCT’s Baboon Research Unit, who says he is furious that National Geographic spliced into the television series sections of an interview with him, although he had told producers he would not be part of the “unethical” documentary? Who are the scientists who assisted with the design of the tests, and are they happy with the production? Davids: Justin ORiain was not involved in the shoot. He delivered an interview to us on baboon behaviour in general, and this was not done on set. The scientists involved in the production are Aliza le Roux and Dr Dawn Kitchener. Aliza le Roux was on set for the duration of the shoot. Dr Kitchener assisted in designing experiments. Gazette: What measures were taken to minimise negative behavioural changes in baboons foreseen to be caused by the project? Davids: We filmed habituated baboons and in no way impacted their behaviour. Gazette: What measures were taken after the production to return the baboons to their natural environment and extinguish possible negative behavioural changes caused by the project? Davids: None were necessary – the baboons were in their natural environment. The baboons were not locked into the house, but approached the house as they have many others in the region. Once the shoot was over they did not return to the site. Gazette: Digital media content producer Meghan Gleason was reported as saying National Geographic had “undertaken a simian social experiment of a lifetime” to understand baboon behaviour. This was “so we can learn how to keep them out of homes and coexist peacefully with their human counterparts… all while having a little fun along the way as we observe these baboons having free rein over a posh house” [Sapa]. The promotional video for the documentary imposes dialogue over the baboons and the production appears to be pitched towards entertainment rather than serious study, with many expletives included in the ribald dialogue. How is the knowledge gained through the “experiment” conveyed to the viewer? Davids: This is done through “factual pop-
“
outs” throughout the show that impart verified facts about baboons and baboon behaviour. Please also note that the clip referred to is a promo and therefore takes highlights from the show in totality. Gazette: National Geographic has stated: “A South African production company in coordination with the Nat Geo Wild constructed a house on the outskirts of the town to observe the behaviour of free-ranging baboons in and around houses with the purpose of better understanding how humans and baboons may better coexist.” What are the findings gained through this production that can be used for better coexistence between humans and baboons, and how have these findings been communicated to stakeholders involved in baboon–human interaction? Davids: By no means the full conclusions, but please find some conclusions below. In relation to stakeholder communications, our aim was to produce a TV show – conclusions in terms of scientific results would need to be shared by the scientist involved. ) Baboons did not show an understanding of the use of large or small tools. ) Baboons do not use cooperation to break into houses. ) Fake snakes were a fairly effective deterrent if they were moving, or semihidden in unexpected places. The live snake was a highly effective deterrent, but it’s not something that an average person has access to. However, as with all deterrents, it needs to be changed up – baboons will quickly learn what is a real or fake threat. ) We found very fast visual associative learning in baboons. Such fast associative learning is not unique to baboons, and is one of the reasons that they are able to break into houses and other places so efficiently. ) We found that calm behaviour in the human will likely lead to calm responses from the baboon. It is when the human panics or threatens the baboon that mayhem and a dangerous situation may ensue. Several observations suggest that baboons are equally likely to attack or ignore men and women – their responses depend on the behaviour, not on the sex of the human being. Overall conclusions: baboons will use brute force to obtain what they want, but also exhibit curiosity and very quick associative learning. This means that they quickly learn new tricks through trial and error (not sophisticated tool use, or observing how humans do something), which makes them very capable of getting past simple defences. Above all, there will never be a single, workable solution to this baboon–human conflict. Deterrents need to be varied, novel, and consistently applied by all town residents – this degree of human cooperation and vigilance may not be attainable. Like baboons, we tend to be independently minded.
We in no way impacted their behaviour
National Geographic maintains its Big Baboon House documentary yields worthy knowledge that can be used in improving human–baboon interaction – but locals maintain it has only yielded more problems for them.
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Leader - Hoofartikel
Kleinmond Gazette
Tuesday 10 July 2012
Column
The quest for the perfect cheesecake Solutions sought When footage emerged from the Nat Geo Wild baboon documentary filmed near Pringle Bay, it cast new light on the current problem of break-ins by baboons in the area. While the ethical foundations of the documentary are questioned, locals have to stand together to address the problem of baboons who have become more aggressive and ingenuous in their attempts to break into houses. Pringle Bay Conservancy’s Baboon Action Group is putting effort into finding responsible answers and solutions. In the words of chairperson Bernard Heydenrych: “This is not a baboon problem, but a human problem.”
Ever wondered what makes a good cheesecake? Well, it’s the only kind of cake that I enjoy. I have tasted baked and fridge cheesecake from little cafés and fancy restaurants across the globe. I have travelled far and wide in search of the perfect cheesecake, covering the length and breadth of the Overstrand. Unfortunately, I have not found that elusive culinary delight. Not a single restaurant in the region has been able to exhibit gastronomical genius when it comes to producing the ideal cheesecake. Creating the right texture, consistency and flavour might seem simplistic in implementation, but when seducing the senses, bakers need to construct a cake that looks, smells and tastes divine. I have also tried my hand at baking a cheesecake. With the help of cooking companion Lana Miller, I set out to perfect a stunning cheesecake. Following the ingredients and instructions to the letter, we waited with bated breath while the cake was in the oven. My first morsel indicated that the quality was well below par. I persevered and ate two slices of the cake that developed into a sickness that resembled something akin to Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. The excessively rich sweetness kept me on my knees for the rest of
the day. I swore that it was the end of my baking explorations, but I suppose that practice makes perfect, and that another attempt should be in the offing in the notso-distant future. My grandmother worked for Jewish caterers until well into her sixties. She could cook any kind of Jewish cuisine, especially that sublime cheesecake. Nevertheless, she cooked typical South African dishes. As most working-class South Africans of colour who worked in the hospitality industry, she preferred cooking meals that her family could identify with. She would bake me a cheescake only if I requested it. The family’s eating inclinations veered towards bread and butter pudding, jelly and custard, apple crumble, sago or malva pudding for dessert. Years later, when I married into a Jewish family, cheescakes once again became a quarterly feature in the home. With an emergence of a growing black middle class, the opening of our borders to international trade and increasing international travel, the number of sophisticated and discerning palates has increased. We are no longer satisfied with sub-standard meals when eating out. South African restaurants and chefs are now amongst the best in the world. Mike Bassett, Reuben Riffels, Frank Dangeroux, Margot Janse and a host of
other culinary experts are setting the tone for the rest of the country to follow. Last weekend, while visiting Harbour Road in Kleinmond, I discovered a huge light at the end of a very dark tunnel. While browsing through an excellent book store, someone mentioned a place that serves a good cheesecake and cappuccino. In the dual café–bookstore at the entrance to a little square off Harbour Road there was no sign of cheesecake, although the cappuccino was well worth a second visit. I finally found that perfect cheesecake nestled in a church hall in Kleinmond an hour later. I convinced the lady who was selling the cakes to let me know when she would be making more and, as the song goes, “I’ll be there.” To quote the wise, “Mother’s cooking knows best.”
JAKKALS TROU MET WOLF SE VROU: Dit was ’n nat, koue naweek wat Overstranders laat bibber het, maar toe ’n flertsie son laat Sondagoggend sy kop uitsteek, het hierdie pragtige reënboog sy verskyning gemaak. Foto: HEDDA MITTNER
Column
Baboons get ready for a feast of fame I could have warned you! Remember what I said before about suddenly seeing yourself on TV? How this can instil delusions of grandeur in you, give you a sense of having lived? You have now let those Discoverers into your lives, good citizens of Pringle Bay and Hangklip, and we will all have to bear the consequences of your inattention. From ordinary sidewalk loafers and dustbin scroungers, your resident chacmas will soon be international TV personalities, with their hairy mugs appearing on millions of HD screens worldwide. With their new status they will not be content with soggy bananas and mouldy bread any more; oh no, they will now increasingly insist on high-class goodies from your fridges and tables – as befits their new status. From what National Geographic has taught them, they will spurn ordinary garbage and knock at your door to demand fresh fruit and piquant snacks as their con-
stitutional right. And if you dared spurn them, they would just unscrew your burglar guards or slide down your chimneys on ropes to help themselves. They may even denounce you to the authorities and write letters – or rather hire lawyers write them (like so many celebrities they don’t do literacy) – to the President, charging you with unfair discrimination. Beware, they can now also afford expensive lawyers to back their threats. And it is only a matter of time before they share their experiences with the world on chat shows, act in soaps, appear at selfimprovement seminars (for a fee, of course) and publish their memoirs. Imagine, too, what role models they will be once they start moving on in the world. Like so many top sportsmen, these monkeys are natural egotists with highly developed levels of self-worth. Remember Gary Player, who single-handedly wrecked the
dress sense of otherwise decent golfers with his ghastly black ensembles and their innate modesty with his claims of being “the most successful golfer on the planet”? (Do they play golf on Mars, I wonder?) You do? Well, you ain’t seen nothing yet – Planet of the Apes is going to upstage the Little Maestro big-time with the latest line in fur coats and gladiator salutes right here on the freeways and greens of our own Whale Coast. But to serious matters: midwinter has come and gone, and the days are getting ever so slightly longer. The weather stays springy (if that’s the word), with cool mornings and warm afternoons. Worse, there’s been no proper rain yet to top up the groundwater, and all the springs have gone dry. At the bottom of my garden I have three very tame duiker families. I think they respond well to the absence of guns, dogs, quad bikes and 4x4s, and I see traces of their
nightly foraging around the house. I surprised a plump doe recently when I went to see if there was water in my new dam. I think she needed a midday sip and did not want to use the fishpond in daylight. She bounded off, to spend a “droëbek” afternoon, I fear. 2 fouriejh@mweb.co.za
Tuesday 10 July 2012
News - Nuus
Kleinmond Gazette
5
‘Protests not political’ – Appel ANNETTE THERON Were the recent service delivery protests in Bot River politically motivated? Not so, says Anthony Appel, resident of Bot River and former spokesperson of the Bot River Residents’ Association (BRA), which assisted in arranging the initial service delivery protest on Monday 28 May. Appel has lived in Bot River for most of his life, and served as mayor of the town for two years – in 1999 and 2000. He says that while it’s no secret he’s a staunch supporter of the ANC, politics was not behind the two most recent protests. “It is not the BRA or Bot River residents who are playing political games – it is the municipality,” he said. “How does a small town like Bot River manage to mobilise so many people – each and every time – during a service delivery protest?” The BRA disbanded on 24 June. The next day, Bot River was shaken by a second – and violent – protest. The Gazette reported last week that an SMS had been sent by Appel to this reporter the day before the protest. Written in Afrikaans, it read, “We are having a service delivery protest in Bot River tomorrow. Anthony.” Appel claims he received this SMS while on his way to the ANC policy conference in Midrand, and that he merely “forwarded” it to Gazette as a concerned resident of Bot River. Appel denies that the BRA was behind this second protest, although he says the community took to the streets “to express their dissatisfaction about the BRA’s dissolution”. In a third protest on Monday 2 July, all the spaza shops in Bot River were looted. Appel laments the fact that crime was in-
volved in this protest. “The Bot River community also condemns this behaviour, and the recent destruction of private property by this handful of criminals who are not known to us.” He says that, as a result, the community has asked for the interim committee of the BRA to be reinstated. This is to happen at a community meeting Appel says must still be arranged. Asked to respond to many Bot River residents’ concerns over protesters being armed with sticks and stones instead of service delivery placards, Appel says: “Sticks and stones are the only way in which defenceless residents can protect themselves against the violent methods deployed by certain police members reacting to protesters.” Appel says that, through negotiations between the BRA, Theewaterskloof Municipality and the national Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs at the end of May, a document was drafted specifying 42 of the issues brought up by the BRA, and resolutions posed by the municipality. “But we had the mandate of the community and had to report to them before the document could be signed.” Theewaterskloof mayor Chris Punt describes the negotiations with the BRA as excellent, so much so that a joint press release was issued afterwards. He adds that each point on the petition was addressed during the negotiation process with an action. A verbal agreement was reached, and then the document was sent to be typed. But the BRA refused to sign the written copy, Punt says. The municipality, he goes on, did not receive a list of grievances following the second and third protests.
Appel says that while the community was satisfied with the contents of the document, it was unhappy with a lack of deadlines and budget allocations from the municipality’s side. The BRA was dissolved before the document could be finalised, Appel adds. Asked why the BRA was dissolved, Appel says it was because Punt alleged the association was a front for the ANC. No negotiations have taken place between the community and the municipality since 2 June. Appel repeats that the community has no political agenda. “All they want is for the municipality to
come to the negotiating table, commit to deadlines and allocate a budget.” Failing this, Appel says the BRA will adopt a Cosatu-like approach of mass action. The BRA will also approach provincial and national government for intervention, and will continue with service delivery protests until its demands are met, he says. Punt says the municipality will happily engage with the BRA should it be reconstituted and sign the document. Should the BRA not be reconstituted, the municipality will engage with any community organisations that approach it, he says.
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6
General - Algemeen
Kleinmond Gazette
Tuesday 10 July 2012
Kalfiefeesternye vir kinders CILENE BEKKER Liewe Heksie hou verjaardag. Koning Leeu hou verjaardag. Trek aan jou partytjieskoene en kom vier dit saam! JANNEMAN IN DIE DIERERYK met Riku Lätti, Lochner de Kock en Jackie van den Heever is ’n heerlike musiekblyspel vir kinders. Na ’n reeks suksesvolle vertonings by die KKNK is Janneman reg om klein oortjies hier ook te bekoor en jong luisteraars se verbeelding op reis te neem met mooi liedjies en snaakse stories. Kom stap vir ’n dag saam in die skoene van ’n wilde klein kalant soos hy dinge en diere in die oerwoud ontdek. Maak vriende met Oupa die Uil wat iewers in die donkerte skuil. Gaan saam na Koning Leeu se verjaardagpartytjie by die groot waterstroom waar die koning woon. Ontmoet vir Skilpad in die hangmat nadat hy Hans Haas kafgedraf
het. Kom sing vir al die geveerdes. Ja, kom leer die maklike liedjies en sing saam vir al die voëltjies. Alhoewel die temas op kinderlike wyse aangebied word, is Janneman in die Diereryk eintlik vir almal wat gehalte musiek en slim lirieke waardeer. In LIEWE HEKSIE EN DIE ROLSKAATSE sit Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck haar spitspunthoed op vir haar rol as die nimlike, vergeetagtige Levinia. Praat van vergeetagtig, sy het hoeka bietjie vergeet van verjaarsdae en daarom vier sy haar “eerste” verjaarsdag hier by die Kalfiefees. Met haar presente, ’n biki-kini en rolskaatse kan Blommeland net nog vroliker word. Maar die nare Geelheks probeer haar vieringe in die (rolskaats)wiele ry, so Levinia vra mooi: “Asseblief klein en groot kaboutervriende van Menseland, help my dat ons al die stoute karnallies kan verwilder.” Verna Vels se immergroen verhale bly gewild by oud en jonk. Verlede
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jaar het van die volwassenes gesê dit was die vermaaklikste produksie op die KKNK. Deon van Zyl speel die rolle van Karel Kat, die Geelheks en Koning Rosekrans. LIEWE HEKSIE: 60 min. R50. De Wetsaal, Onrus. Vry. 10 Aug. 16:00 JANNEMAN IN DIE DIERERYK: 60 min. R50. De Wetsaal. 11 Aug. 10:00 ) Programme is beskikbaar by die Hermanus Times-kantoor en Kalfiefeeskantoor by die De Wetsaal in Onrus (in ’n mandjie by die veiligheidshek).Besoek ook die webwerf: www.kalfiefees.co.za. Besprekingsslegs deur Computicket. Bel 0861 915 8000 of www.computicket.com.
In Liewe heksie en die rolskaatse speel Deon van Zyl die rolle van Karel Kat, die Geelheks en Koning Rosekrans en Margit Meyer-Rödenbeck is Levinia.
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Sendyourcont ri but i onst oj ani ne@hermanus t i mes . co. za.
THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY BY RACHEL JOYCE: Described as both heart-warming and heart-wrenching, this book is an exploration of one couple’s awakening from the dull sleep of an empty marriage. Harold Fry, recently retired from his job at the brewery, lives in Devon with his wife, Maureen, who seems irritated by almost everything he does, even down to how he butters his toast. Then one morning he receives a letter from a former work colleague whom he hasn’t seen in years. Queenie Hennessy is in a hospice and is writing to say goodbye. Harold pens a quick reply and heads to the corner mailbox. But a chance encounter con-
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vinces him to deliver his message in person. And thus begins his unlikely pilgrimage of 600 miles across England to see Queenie. Along the way he meets fascinating characters, each of whom unlocks his long-dormant spirit of youth and sense of promise, and so he begins to put his own life in order. Based on rave reviews on goodreads.com, ranging from “a delightful and poignant tale” and “an amazing and uplifting story” to “well-written and absorbing”, this is a must-read. One reviewer sums it up as follows: “It’s about how someone can think of themselves as ordinary when in fact to others they are someone special.”
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RAFA – MY STORY BY RAFAEL NADAL WITH JOHN CARLIN: Rafa crashed spectacularly out of Wimbledon in the early rounds. Many say it’s because he cannot change his game plan, referring also to his inability to shake off his “wedgie-pick sniff tuck sniff” on-court rituals. The book addresses Rafa’s obsessiveness about order, and starts off with him talking about the magic of playing at Wimbledon, and how it had been his dream since he was 14. His coach, uncle Toni, had drummed it into him that this was the biggest tournament of them all. At age 20 in 2006, he made it to the Wimbledon final but lost against Federer. In 2007, Federer again beat him
in the finals – a five-set defeat that left Nadal utterly devastated. “I wept after that loss. I cried incessantly for half an hour in the dressing room.” The rest of the book tells of his epic triumph over Federer, in 2008, interspersed with chapters on Nadal’s support system (around 20 people!) and home life in Majorca, Spain, where three generations live together in a five-storey building. For me, no tennis bio so far has out-aced Agassi’s (Open: An Autobiography), but Rafa’s story is compelling, and he does open up about his insecurities, habits and rituals, endurance, home life and family. Well worth the read for tennis fans. CILENE BEKKER
. FOR CHILDREN This is the fourth year in which youth organisation LIG is hosting a free holiday club for children in Kleinmond, in partnership with local churches, businesses and numerous individuals in and around the Overstrand area. This year the club will hold its own Olympic Games to coincide with the Olympics in England. On from 9 to 13 July at the Mthimkhulu Village Centre, the programme features songs, games, biblical life skills training, memory verses, drama, and arts and crafts. The day programme runs from 08:30 to 13:30 and accommodates children between the ages of 3 and 13. The children are divided into five age groups, which enable them to appropriately adapt the presentation of information and group activities. Upon arrival each morning the children enjoy sandwiches and tea, while a hot meal awaits them at lunchtime. The parents are not excluded, and are invited to a concert and Olympic prize-giving on 12 July at 19:00. The parents will also get an opportunity to view the crafts their children have made during the week. All children are welcome. Remember to dress warmly. Contact Antoinette on 072 511 2311 or Carina on 073 351 4480 to find out more. . FOR YOUTH (14–25 years): LIG is also hosting a holiday club for young people in Kleinmond; they are invited to “travel” to Jamaica to hang out at Cool Runnings Café (in the Harbor Road Shed across from Europa). “The primary focus is to engage the youths in positive, uplifting activities so as to make the most of their vacation time,” a spokesperson says. The organisation will make it happen through an exciting programme filled with challenges, dramatic skits, dance, games, movie clips and coffee and snacks at Cool Runnings Café; be sure to take some pocket money along. The programme runs from 9 to 13 July, with the fun happening from 19:00 until 22:00 each evening. Parents and teens alike are also invited to a concert where activities are focused on encouraging parent–child interaction, and so that parents can get to see what their youngsters got up to during the daytime programme throughout the week. The concert happens at 19:00 on 12 July at the Mthimkhulu Shed. Contact Antionette on 072 511 2311 or Carina on 073 351 4480. Alternatively, follow LIG on Twitter (@ligyouth) or find the group on Facebook (LIG Youth).
Tuesday 10 July 2012
General - Algemeen
Kleinmond Gazette
7
Meet a local What are your names, and where do you live? Donna: My name is Donna Vercuil and I live in Betty’s Bay. Vaidah: I’m Vaidah Shopo and I live in Kleinmond. What makes your town so special? Donna: What I love about Betty’s Bay is that you can get back to nature here. The area is not clouded by shopping malls, noise and traffic. I came from Paarl about three years ago and could never go back. I feel spoilt to be enjoying this unique lifestyle far away from the hustle and bustle. Vaidah: I came here three years ago from Zimbabwe. I also like the quiet and peaceful life I have here. I don’t like noise, traffic, crime and violence. People tend to put foreigners in boxes, and I have experienced incidents of xenophobia, but when the police are called in they come straight away and arrest the criminals. So I feel safe here. What would you change in the area? Donna: My family has had a holiday house in Betty’s Bay for many years, and things have changed a lot since then. There are more permanent residents now, and for people who make a living here life is very expensive. I feel locals should not be charged the same rates as tourists. We are the ones who support the businesses year-round, but we can’t afford to eat in the restaurants because they are so expensive. Even the price of basic foodstuffs in local shops is ridiculous, and it forces people to do their shopping over the mountain where prices are more competitive. It is also difficult to get around, because there is not enough public transport and the garage in Betty’s Bay is often closed when people need petrol. Vaidah: I would like to see all the shacks in Proteadorp replaced with houses, be-
Vaidah Shopo and Donna Vercuil. cause they look disgusting and spoil the beautiful landscape. I also don’t like all the dogs that roam the streets. People who cannot take care of their animals shouldn’t have any. If you did not live here, where else would you like to live? Donna: My grandparents were Italian, and I think I would feel at home living in Italy. Vaidah: I wouldn’t like to live anywhere else. If I had to move, I would maybe go to Durban. What kind of work do you do, and why do you enjoy it? Donna: I work as the waiter supervisor at Leopard’s Kloof restaurant in the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens in Betty’s Bay. I enjoy it because we don’t get the same people
Photo: HEDDA MITTNER
all the time, and that keeps things interesting. I also know the area well and can give visitors advice on what to do and see in the area. Over the years I have worked at many restaurants, and I like it here because there is no bar where the locals can park off, and I don’t have to deal with bad behaviour. This is a family restaurant, and it is a great place for children and the elderly. Vaidah: I started in the kitchen and am now working as a waitress at Leopard’s Kloof restaurant. [Donna says it is Vaidah’s outgoing personality that makes her such an asset.] I enjoy meeting all the interesting people who come here – from different cultures, with different languages and personalities. You never know what you will encounter each day. Who would you like to invite to dinner
and why? Donna: I’d like to invite the comedian Trevor Noah because he is so positive and refreshing; my maternal grandmother whom I never met as she died when she was only 22; and my good friend Benje Bester, who died in a car accident two years ago. Vaidah: I would like to have the Nigerian pastor TB Joshua to dinner and invite all my family and friends to meet him. What is the best advice you’ve ever been given, and what advice can you give to others? Donna: My mom always says: “Do unto others as you would like them to do unto you.” It is the best advice I ever got because it makes you aware of others’ needs, and reminds you to be considerate. I also remember the quotes my English teacher had on the wall of her classroom, like: “A mistake doesn’t become an error unless you refuse to correct it.” My advice is to stop making excuses and blaming your problems on others. We all create our own destiny, and we should always ask: “What can I do?” Vaidah: I also remember my mom’s advice: on your way up, be nice to people; they are the same people you’ll meet on your way down. My advice to others is to cherish the moments you can share with your family. And most importantly: do not wait until the last minute to receive Christ. There is no better time than now.
If you know of an interesting person in the Overstrand/Overberg area, please send us their details – they could become the next Meet a Local. Send details to janine@hermanustimes.co.za.
’n Eie Bybel Die onderwysers van die Pikkewyntjies PrePrimêre Skool in Mooi Uitsig, Bettysbaai, het onlangs die voorreg gehad om Kinderbybels aan die vier- tot sesjarige leerlinge te oorhandig. Die skenking is gedoen deur ’n inwoner van Pringlebaai wat graag anoniem wou bly. Volgens die hoof, Zaan Cilliers, was die kinders baie opgewonde om die Kinderbybels te ontvang. “Van hulle het sommer die volgende dag al kom vertel dat hul ouers die hele Bybel vir hulle deurgelees het,” vertel sy. Daar is Xhosa, Engelse en Afrikaanse Bybels gekoop en die ouers kon dit dus vir die kinders in hul eie taal voorlees. Die skool het hul dankbaarheid uitgespreek teenoor die persoon wat die geld vir die Bybels geskenk het.
Art Route Emerging and established artists, both professional and amateur, are asked to help establish an “Art Route” in the Overstrand area (Rooi-Els to Bot River). The aim is to create an Overstrand Art Route made up of all artists in the area, giving them a platform to showcase their talents. The idea is to have a list detailing which artist is where, so that both tourists and locals will have easy access to this information. Interested artists are invited to contact Delva Rossouw with a view to arrange a meeting whereby artists can collaborate and brainstorm. Contact Delva Rossouw at 082 570 9679 or rossdelva@yahoo.co.uk.
Die leerlinge van die Pikkewyntjie-kleuterskool was baie opgewonde oor die Kinderbybels in hul eie taal. By die kinders is Fransa van Straten en Claudia Meyer wat weekliks Bybelklassies gee.
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Galjoen keep shore anglers smiling Often when opening multiplier reels I find that anglers using the same make and model of reel either leave centrifugal weights in the reel or remove them. Some anglers believe they’re able to cast further with the little centrifugal weight removed and rely only on applying a gentle pressure on the rim of the reel’s spool with the thumb, a technique that is only perfected with practice. The casting aids like centrifugal weights or magnets which can be adjusted to prevent overwinds at the end of a cast allow for more control when using hefty casts. Some reels have three centrifugal weights while reels in the mid-price range have two centrifugal weights which also work very well. Some international tournament casters who have toured South Africa advocate that even one centrifugal weight is a big help. Many of these tournament casters feel if the tournament reel is not fitted with an adjustable magnetic drag knob then centrifugal weights are essential – especially on the modern, smaller reels which these professionals are able to cast between 230 meters to 260 meters. The modern multiplier reels have three centrifugal weights which assist greatly with the initial cast, preventing big overwinds if
there is a snap-off at the beginning of the cast. This specific type of centrifugal weight has small plastic blocks which block the high revs and have springs that deactivate the brake blocks when the spool is revving freely. This centrifugal casting aid is then inactivated at the end of the cast and thumb pressure is needed to control the cast. These three blocks can be totally activated to get the centrifugal effect. The argument that when only one ordinary centrifugal weight is removed the reel spool
is not balanced is therefore not true for the world champion Belgian distance caster Danny Muskopf has cast more than 275 metres on more than one occasion with sinkers of various weights. During exhibitions in South Africa he always used one centrifugal weight and an adjustable magnetic drag. I must add that Danny Muskopf is a powerful man. During the weekend there were sporadic catches of snoek at St Helena all the way down to Kalk Bay. Very few local boats ventured out to sea due to the choppy sea and unstable weather. During the past weekend it was nice to see a number of shore anglers crawling out of the woodwork. Unfortunately they did not have much success except for the odd galjoen and dassie and occasional large white stumpnose which most old timers called a “go home fish” although they are prime “braai” fish. I received news and photographs from Jaco Snyman who has just returned from a oneweek fishing trip in Namibia. He mentioned that plenty of galjoen and white steenbras were caught and released by him and his party and found that this time of year was great at Hentie’s Bay due to the area not being as overcrowded as during peak season.
Gordon’s Bay angler Ruben Jordaan caught this 47cm, 2,2 kg galjoen at L’Agulhas last month. This was the biggest of three galjoen he caught on the day. Ruben caught the galjoen in overcast raining weather using red bait and a 1/0 hook. He was using a 13 foot graphite King Fisher rod, a Shimano reel and 30 pound Suffix line. I was sad to hear about the untimely death of Kenny Rinquest, a well-known and successful Rooikrans spinnerman and boat angler who was very active in our area during the last number of years. He was also well known in the Judo circles. For all your reel repairs and services contact Art on 021 854 3831. Send your fishing news and photos to bjridgway@telkomsa.net
Derbykoors Hawston en Atlantic se rugbyklubs het die afgelope naweek kragte gemeet tydens ’n plaaslike derby. Die A-spanne het gelykop gespeel, Hawston se B-span het met 22–5 gewen en Atlantic se C-span het met 11–3 koning gekraai. Hawston se puntemakers in die A-span was: Shane Salies (twee drieë), Niel Coetzee (drie) en Bradley Brown (strafskop). B-span: Juan van Rooyen (drie), Reggie Smit (drie), Matthew Zulu (drie) en Lloyd Dynaard (twee doelskoppe, een skepskop). C-span: Patrick Andries (strafskop). ) Kleinmond-rugbyklub se spanne het teen Villagers van Montagu gespeel en al drie spanne het verloor. Die A-span se telling was 42–29, die B-span se telling was 12–6 en die C-span se telling was 10–5.
Matthew Zulu van Hawston se B-span val oor die doellyn vir sy drie teen Atlantic. FOTO’S: HEDDA MITTNER
Christo Arendse en Neville Pietersen van Hawston se A-span rank hoog vir die bal.
Clayton Faure van Hawston se B-span ding mee om die bal in die lynstaan.
Juan van Rooyen en Mcneil Arendse van Hawston se B-span lei hul mede-spelers van die veld af ná hul oorwinning.