Village news 3 may 2016c

Village

NEWS The

3 MAY 2016

Cape Whale Coast

FREE COPY

Let’s do this, Hermanus!

The new banner that now takes pride of place at the entrance to Hermanus has many a resident fluttering with pride, joy and excitement.

It was erected on Thursday morning 28 April, after Hermanus was announced on television as a finalist in the Kwêla Dorp van die Jaar (Town of the Year) competition the previous evening.

This competition, which is open to towns with a population of less than

500 000, kicked off earlier this year. From the nominated towns, three semi-finalists were selected from each of the nine regions in South Africa and Namibia.

In the next round, which is now nearing completion, the names of the nine finalists are then announced in stages, when an 8-minute insert on each town is aired on Kwêla, the weekly lifestyle programme on the Afrikaans DStv channel kykNET. The production team of

Kwêla had visited Hermanus on 14 and 15 April to film the insert on our town that saw many locals glued to the box at 8pm on Wednesday evening 27 April. The insert has also been widely shared on social media.

Presenter André Weidemann interviewed several wellknown locals, including Brian McFarlane, Vic HamiltonAttwell, Frieda Lloyd, Jaco Sieberhagen, Janine Neethling and Helénè Truter, while the camera crew

captured the magic of Hermanus on film, from Grotto Beach to Fernkloof, Abagold and the wine route.

In the Western Cape region, Hermanus has triumphed over Still Bay and Yzerfontein to become the seventh finalist in the competition.

For those who missed the broadcast, the insert can be viewed online at www.kyknet.dstv.com/2016/ 04/27/kwela-dorp-van-diejaar-finalis-hermanus.

The other regional finalists that have been announced are Potchefstroom (NorthWest), Paul Roux (Free State), Ballito (KwaZulu-Natal), Hoedspruit (Limpopo), Dullstroom (Mpumalanga) and Kirkwood (Eastern Cape).

The last two finalists, for Northern Cape and Namibia, will be announced on 4 and 11 May respectively, after which the final voting stage will take place from 11 to 17 May.

The result of this competition will be based solely on the number of votes that each finalist receives from the public.

Those who want to see Hermanus triumph as the national winner, must cast their votes between 11 and 17 May by sending an SMS with the word ‘Hermanus’ to 33157.

A maximum of 30 SMSs can be sent from one cellphone at the cost of R1.50 per SMS. The overall winner will be announced on 25 May. Read more on P 3.

Kwêla

DORP VAN DIE JAAR

The Village NEWS would like to publish your thoughts and concerns about issues that are important to you.

All Letters to the Editor should be accompanied with the writer's name and contact details for verification. All letters are subject to editing for newspaper style and clarity, without changing the meaning of the content.

Letters should be limited to about 300 words. We reserve the right not to publish all letters received.

Send your letters to news@thehermanusnews. co.za The Village NEWS is published fortnightly and is available every second Tuesday (Tuesday is NEWS day!) at all major retail centres from Kleinmond to Gansbaai, including Hermanus Pick n Pay and the Village Square, the Tourism Offices, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, wine farms as well as various selected shops. If you are unable to find a copy, please contact us on 028 312 4424 / 083 700 3319 or visit us at our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus.

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3 MAY 2016

Very informative article regarding the bypass road in die 5th April issue of Good NEWS. Is anybody out there listening to the people on the ground?

What I find disconcerting is the fact that in the “Bypass Facts” under alternatives, nobody refers to the most obvious bypass that will get everyone’s thumbs up – the

Hemel-en-Aarde road that has recently been upgraded.

endangered plant species, school grounds, golf courses or private homes.

Why would people use the bypass? To go to Bredasdorp, Gansbaai, and so forth. So why not go along the Hemel-en-Aarde road? It is an existing road with nice scenery (better that going through a town) and will not damage or interfere with

What are the planners thinking or are there some ulterior motives we don’t know of?

Keep up the good NEWS. Vic Hamilton-Attwell

All shops should Rethink the Bag What an excellent article in your paper on ‘Rethinking the Bag’. It’s been bugging me for ages so I decided in January to convert small bags to paper at my shop, Smart Toys.

We even encourage people to do doodle art on them like gift wrap. Unfortunately

they don’t do big brown bags cheaply so we still use big plastic ones but would love to buy those bags that Fiona is hoping to make. I’ve contacted her. I’m going to try the same incentive as England when I was last there 15 years ago and say that anyone who brings their own bag will get 50c off

Hermanus needs your vote!

Hermanus is a very special place.

We all know that. And now we as residents have the opportunity to further put our town on the national map with the Kwêla Dorp van die Jaar competition.

Being voted as town of the year will earn Hermanus a town’s festival in September as well as R1 million worth of advertising and marketing.

This will greatly support Hermanus’s vision of being the premier holiday destination in the Western Cape.

The winnings will bolster our local economy, not only in Hermanus itself but also the whole of the Cape Whale Coast. And with both national and international economies under pressure more feet through Hermanus and the Cape Whale Coast will be welcome.

So keep your fingers at the ready to SMS the word HERMANUS to 33157 from 11 to 17 May. You can vote up to 30 times from a single number. And remember, the results will be based solely on the number

of votes cast by the public, so every vote counts!

Should you need incentive to send those SMSs just go for a walk on one of our cliff paths, go and feel the sand under your feet on one of the beaches, take a hike up Hoy’s Koppie, drive up to Rotary Way and take in the scenery or take a trip through our wine valley and taste the incredible wines we have on offer.

The News has taken up the challenge and together with our online partners will be driving a campaign to reach as many people as possible to garner their votes.

Join us in achieving this by inviting or adding your Facebook friends to The Hermanus News, I Love Hermanus, Cape Whale Coast and My Hermanus pages. We will be continuously updating and reminding people to vote.

Come on people, we can do this!

That is the good news - Ed

what they buy… what do you think?

How about an article in the paper on all those shops taking that extra step to help (like Gateway SPAR)? Keep up your great paper.

NEWS

Village

A good alternative to the bypass

Editorial Comment

Letters

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News You Can Use

6 Royal Street, Hermanus 028 312 4424 Publisher De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@ thehermanusnews.co.za

Content Editor Hedda Mittner 083 645 3928 hedda@hermanus.co.za

Sue Raven

Ombudsman The press exists to serve society. Its freedom provides for independent scrutiny of the forces that shape society, and is essential to realising the promise of democracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments on the issues of the day, a role whose centrality is recognised in the South African Constitution. The News of Hermanus subscribes to the South African Press Code and subsequently to the South African Press Council and the South African Press Ombudsman.

Should you feel that our reporting was not free, fair or unbiased or that serious errors were made, you are welcome to lay a complaint with the Ombudsman, Joe Thloloe. He can be reached on 011 484 3612/8, or via e-mail at pressombudsman@ombudsman.org. za or visit www.presscouncil.org.za

Marketing Kathy Mulock-Bentley 083 581 7219 kathy@chartwellsupport.co.za

Graphic Designer & Layout Artist Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey1094@gmail.com

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Kwêla

DORP VAN DIE JAAR From P 1.

“We all know the African saying that it takes a village to raise a child,” says Frieda Lloyd, manager of Cape Whale Coast tourism, “and it is similarly going to take a village for us to triumph in this competition. It is not going to happen by itself – it will depend on each and every resident, swallow, visitor and holidaymaker who loves this town.

“We have to act on our passion and get organised! So spread the word among family and friends, colleagues and business associates, and use all the resources at your disposal such as mailing lists, phone contacts and social media. Together we can do this!”

There appears to be some confusion since the first voting rounds opened for the Kwêla Dorp van die Jaar (Town of the Year) competition. Many of our English-speaking readers are not familiar with either Kwêla, the weekly Afrikaans programme on the DStv channel KykNET, or its annual competition which has previously seen the likes of Middelburg and Fouriesburg win the sought-after title of ‘Dorp van die Jaar’.

So why should we mobilise our town to get those votes and what would it mean for Hermanus to win the title?

“Research has shown that roughly 50% of our visitors are local holidaymakers from within South Africa and yet marketing is often more focused on the other 50% who are tourists. That means that we are not targeting those visitors who are right under our noses,” says Frieda.

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‘It takes a village’ “This is our big chance to go national. If you consider that participating in a trade show can cost up to R50 000 and having a video made can amount to R20 000, then this competition presents one of the cheapest ways to market our town.”

Prins Youth Treatment Programme of which she is the manager. During the first round of voting earlier this year, Ann sprang into action by contacting Cape Whale Coast, Hermanus Tourism and even the mayor, Nicolette Botha-Guthrie.

The overall winner of ‘Dorp van die Jaar’ 2016 stands to win fabulous prizes that include advertisements and marketing worth R1 million and a festive celebration party in September.

“I love a challenge,” says Ann, “and I started by using emails, pamphlets and social media to raise awareness and drive support for this fabulous opportunity to put Hermanus on the national stage. I urged everyone I know to use their mailing lists to spread the word and people were more than happy to get involved.

“Of course we’d love to win the title, but we have already benefitted enormously from this competition,” says Frieda.

“Not only did we get a professionally produced video of Hermanus and 8 minutes of airtime for free – the whole experience has given us the opportunity to work together and support our beautiful town.

“When the Kwêla team was here to shoot the video, so many individuals and businesses came forward to help, including Burgundy restaurant where the team was treated to a free lunch, the Hermanus Wine Route which donated wines, and filmmaker FC Hamman who provided the exquisite aerial footage used in the video.

And then there was Brian Wridgway from Builders Express, who volunteered the use of one of their trucks and several staff members to assist us in erecting the banner. Above all, Hermanus needs to thank one resident who was the driving force behind this whole project – Ann Wright.”

Ann, who moved to Hermanus from Johannesburg only two years ago, says she first heard about the competition when she was interviewed by Kwêla after this year’s Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse in aid of the Clive

Well-known local businessman and fisherman, Brian McFarlane, on Hoy’s Koppie with Kwêla presenter André Weideman.

“This community spirit is what I love so much about Hermanus! Making it through to the final round confirms that if you believe in something, anything is possible – and one person CAN make a difference.”

“In the two previous ‘Dorp van die Jaar’ competitions, the Western Cape finalists Wellington and Paarl lost out respectively to Middelburg (Mpumalanga) and Fouriesburg (Free State). “We have to make sure that doesn’t happen again,” says Frieda.

“As the voting process takes place in stages, there seems to be some confusion about when and how those who love Hermanus can cast their votes to ensure that we bring home the national title this year.

André Weideman with pianist Janine Neethling, actress and scriptwriter Helénè Truter, and Ann Wright in Helénè’s shop Amulet.

“So remember to start voting on 11 May by sending your SMSs with the word ‘HERMANUS’ to 33157, and send as many as you can until voting closes at noon on 17 May. Up to 30 SMSs can be sent from one number.

This is Hermanus’s year – together we can do this!”

- Hedda Mittne

Setting up for an interview with Frieda Lloyd before going on a tour of the Hermanus Wine Route with the Wine Hoppers.

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3 MAY 2016

Spotlight on Harold Porter Botanical Garden The theme for SANBI-Kirstenbosch’s 2016 entry to the Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show is ‘Harold Porter Botanical Garden – A Gateway to the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve’. This will be SANBI-Kirstenbosch’s 41st annual entry to the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show (CFS) which takes place from 24 – 28 May in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, UK.

A jawsome opportunity to volunteer for sharks “This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about the oceans, the environment and sharks to not only learn about them, but to also stay and work for 4 weeks with other youngsters from all over the world,” says Kim.

In the 8 months that Kim ‘Sharklady’ Maclean has been the Overstrand Woman of the year, she has been going full steam ahead on her research and community projects.

She has also started a ‘Volunteer for Sharks’ programme that offers an amazing opportunity for youngsters that are interested in marine life.

Many people from all over the world are eager to come to South Africa to work with sharks. They are either studying marine biology or an environmental course, have recently graduated, or simply want to take a gap year and do something for their planet and for great white sharks.

The Rambler

‘Volunteer for Sharks’ is delighted to announce that a percentage of all fees for the intern programme will go towards sponsoring internships for local youngsters from the Overstrand community who wouldn’t ordinarily be able to afford to participate in an internship like this.

Dave Smith

‘Volunteer for Sharks’ offers an intern programme where volunteers work with Shark Bay Research on their groundbreaking research about the impact of sound on great white sharks. They work closely with marine biologist Chris Perkins, and Kim, to collect, record and analyse data. They go to sea, learn to work with sharks, attend lectures, and participate in informative programmes where they learn about marine life, the ocean and sharks (of course).

The volunteers also spend time interacting with the children of The Living Hope Trust in Zwelihle. The trust supports children in poorer

communities by providing extramural classes for students and by creating events that bring joy into children's lives. Sharklady Adventures has been offering them support and assistance and has provided tables and chairs and a flat screen TV, as well as organised the donation of a big carpet by Werner and Paul of Mon Desir restaurant.

The Harold Porter National Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay was bequeathed to the National Botanical Gardens, now SANBI (South African National Biodiversity Institute), in 1958. Uniquely located within the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, this beautiful garden comprises 10 ha that are immaculately cultivated with wheelchairfriendly paths winding between banks of fynbos plants, cool African montane forests, and wetland and dune displays. Another 190 ha have been left undisturbed and offer several kilometres of attractive mountainside and riverine nature trails taking between one and four hours to walk.

Renowned for its waterfalls and

amber pools, the Harold Porter Botanical Garden showcases more than 700 species of indigenous South African plants that include the main fynbos families (proteas, ericas and restios) as well as other important families such as irises, daisies and orchids. Among them are the red disa (Disa uniflora) in its natural habitat, South Africa’s national flower, the king protea (Protea cynaroides) and the Prince of Wales heath (Erica perspicua).

The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve is home to the most complex biodiversity on our planet, with more than 1 880 different plant species occurring in only 240 square kilometres. To put this into perspective – the next richest is the South American rain forest with just 420 species per 10 000 square kilometres. The reserve alone boasts 77 species that occur nowhere else on earth – compare that to the whole of the United Kingdom which has just 22 endemics.

This unique Kogelberg area forms the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, and although it is the smallest of the world’s floral kingdoms, it is the richest by far.

Kim has also pledged to take as many of the children shark cage diving during the course of this year as possible. The volunteers will offer extra-mural activities to the children to pass on their knowledge of the ocean.

Kim says if you know of someone who would be a candidate for this opportunity, please send their details to volunteerforsharks@gmail.com and tell her why you think they should be selected.

Floral designer David Davidson, with the CFS model

Our Rambler reserves the right to poke fun

The more eagle-eyed of readers will have spotted a couple of changes which affected The Rambler column in the previous edition of The News. This week, The Rambler would like to allay any fears that corporate bullying and corruption have now spread their influence even to our idyllic and sheltered home at the end of the rainbow and that we might possibly be looking at Ramblergate.

The first change was that the column was sponsored. The most acceptable explanation would be that the sponsor enjoys the column so much that he has made a voluntary contribution from the goodness of his heart in order to ensure its continuance. While there

may be other, more sinister, possibilities, The Rambler would immediately like to make it clear that this move will have absolutely no effect on the integrity of his musings.

The Rambler column will be no new New Age. There will be no Gupta-esque takeover of content or editorial direction and The Rambler reserves the right to continue to poke fun at all, sundry (especially sundry) and often himself. No amount of filthy lucre will persuade him to favour any particular company, political party or social group. Well perhaps “no amount” is a slight exaggeration.

Everyone has their price.

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Secondly the column was, at least on the face of it, relegated from the top of page 2 to the bottom of page 4. The apparent downgrading to page 4 is obviously no such thing.

Extensive market research has shown that Rambler fans tend to turn directly to his column largely ignoring the paper’s other content. The powers-that-be have, therefore, decided to follow Kobus Galloway in adapting the “Where’s Willy” cartoon books. He devised “Where’s

Zuma?” and they have come up with “Where’s Rambler?”.

This new game will encourage, or rather force the reader to study all the News You Can Use as well to take advantage of the many helpful and informative advertisements such as, to choose an example at random, that for Aura Host.

Each week the column will occupy a different spot in the paper. There are also plans to print the column upside-down, hidden behind other articles, in languages other than English and, if all else fails, in other newspapers. In an effort to get the best design advice for maximum effect, the publisher, having put out the

job to tender as might be expected, has chosen local company Aura Design as the best option.

There may also be a need to create and develop an online presence for The Rambler, particularly through social media and who better to look to for guidance in this area than Aur… no that’s enough, they’ve had their money’s worth for this week.

And so there you have it. No need for any further enquiry.

The Rambler knew absolutely nothing about these changes until he saw them in the paper and there is no reason for anyone to suggest that he should pay back the money.

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3 MAY 2016

‘Tannie Ria’ is every Hermies’ mother After 21 years as the secretary of Hermanus High School, “tannie Ria” has a special place in the heart of every learner, parent and staff member of the school. Not only does she know the names of all the learners, their parents and siblings; she also knows their individual characteristics, their talents, challenges and achievements. She even keeps track of past learners, who often come by the school to say hello to their “other mother”.

How she remembers them all remains a mystery to me.

When I recently called the school, many years after my own children had matriculated, she immediately recognised my voice and the first thing she asked me was: “How is Emma? And how is Luka?” She not only remembered their names, but also their interests and aspirations, and was eager to hear how they were getting on.

complaining about “the youth of today” as so many older people are wont to do. “There is nothing wrong with our children,” she says, “I will go to war with them!”

Although she admits that in general children today tend to be more outspoken than before, she insists that there is no such thing as “a naughty child – only naughty parents”. It really upsets her when people illtreat children, she says.

What she enjoys most about children is their authenticity and honesty. “If the child is experiencing problems one only needs to look at her or his domestic circumstances.

All children flourish when they receive the necessary attention – you have to be genuinely interested in them.”

I love all my children,” says Ria. “After every holiday I return to school with a song in my heart because I’ve missed them so much and it’s such a pleasure to see all their familiar faces again.”

Ria says her nurturing instincts are probably due to her own experience of childhood. “I had caring parents and I was always very close to them and my siblings – four sisters and one brother. I was the same kind of mother to my own children – there is a strong bond between us and we have always been supportive of one another.”

You will never find Ria

Two years after moving to

Hermanus with her late husband Manie Theron, he died suddenly of a heart attack. That was 25 years ago, and after his death Ria started working at Hermanus Pre-Primary School’s aftercare centre (Babbel & Krabbel) before the High School’s principal, Werner Ladewig, asked her to help out as his secretary.

“I sort of slipped in through the back door,” chuckles Ria, who at first worked mornings only at the high school and at the after-care centre in the afternoons. I suspect it did not take Werner very long before he realised that Ria was indispensable, and she soon became not only a full-time employee, but the fulcrum around which school life revolves.

Ria’s role at the school goes way beyond her official job description. “She’s not only a mother to all the learners but the staff as well,” says history and tourism teacher Elsa Nel. “She’s the go-to-person for everyone!”

Ria is not only to be found in her office until late in the afternoon every weekday, but on Saturdays she is next to the sports field to support and encourage “her

children” when they are playing matches. “They always ask me afterwards if I saw them scoring this or that goal, so I have to be there!” she laughs.

Ria was the mentor for members of the Junior Town Council for 10 years. She also runs a soup kitchen, provides sandwiches to about 20 children at the school to ensure that no one goes hungry, and initiated the ‘Tin Drive’ which sees learners bringing canned food to the school every Wednesday.

Ria then makes up food parcels which needy learners take home every Friday, and the class that collected the most food every week is treated to pizza.

I ask her if she ever feels over-burdened. “When some of the children are having problems, I often take that home with me and then I can’t sleep at night because I worry about them,” she says.

Two of Ria’s four sons live in Hermanus (the oldest, André Theron, has been the groundsman at Hermanus High for many years), one lives in Melkbosstrand and one in Canada. She has six grandchildren, ranging from

Ria Acker, secretary of Hermanus High School 26 years to 8 months, and is a surrogate mother to all of them. She got married to Hennie Acker several years after the death of her first husband, and has now been living in Hermanus for 27 years. Ria will be turning 70 this year and I ask her if there

A maestro to the last key There was something glorious about the performance Ken Higgins gave to a packed audience in the Overstrand Auditorium on Sunday afternoon, 24 April. It was no coincidence that the audience was about his age for the majority of them had listened to him playing the piano since their youth.

This tall, slim octogenarian was greatly revered by those who knew him and his musical interpretations. True to form he put his all into the music he played that afternoon as only he could - and did - do. One can only admire and wonder at his great ability to master each of the pieces he performed.

Ken Higgins grew to love music from a very early age.

He studied classical music at the School of Music in Cape

Town from his early teens. As he told his audience he had also always wanted to play boogie-woogie and achieved that dream years later.

His style was recognisable as that of a genius. The way he arranged the melodies he played and his improvisation linking some of them spoke of his enormous talent. He had the ability to transport people way back in time.

Who can forget listening to Springbok Radio in those days, just before leaving for school, as he tinkled the ivories making happy music?

Many remember him from his Villiersdorp days and each one who went into the Overstrand Hospice office to buy a ticket to the concert had a special story to tell. It was no wonder that Ken

said at the end of playing "if ever I wanted to hire an audience it would be this one". He knew he was playing to a special audience and he acknowledged one or two members as he blew a kiss or lifted his thumb to them.

Very few of those present would have predicted the imminent demise of this special man. Yet had everyone listened perceptively to Ben Butler (Hermanus Bowling Club) who introduced Ken and who made a presentation to him at the close of the performance, they would have heard the words " this is the end of an era. Ken has decided to sell his grand piano".

Later as he left the auditorium through the hall

he was supported by a friend and his wife, Cecily, to whom he paid special tribute when he played "If you don't know now" as his encore.

Ken had given his audience a (the?) final performance of a lifetime.

- Anne Philip

Ken Higgins and his wife, Cecily, after his last concert on Sunday, 24 April at the Municipal Auditorium. Ken, a renowned pianist and resident of Hermanus, died three days after the concert.

He played the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber, Gershwin and Leonard Bernstein at the concert that was a solo fund-raiser for Hermanus Hospice and the Hermanus Bowling Club.

Picture: Amor du Plessis

are any plans to retire. “I’m very grateful for my good health,” she says, “I don’t even take a headache pill.

Why would I want to sit around at home? I’ll stay at the school for as long as they’ll have me!”

- Hedda Mittner

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Mother’s Day 8 May 2016

Celebrating mothers and daughters Glenda & Braelea Pope Glenda Pope, the owner of The Mission’s House Gallery in Onrus, is well-known in art circles and has recently been joined by her energetic daughter Braelea, who has returned to her roots after several years in the wine industry in the Cape and in France.

“Mom and I have always been close,” says Braelea.

Socialising with her mom and her circle of artistic friends from an early age, Braelea says their relationship was always built on friendship. “We are very different but we respect each other’s personalities. Mom was always the fun, quirky one while I am more the sensible one. We never had the usual problems when I was a teenager and my friends always loved my mom because they thought she was so cool.”

“Yes, she always kept me on the straight and narrow,” laughs Glenda, “because I tend to fly by the seat of my pants.” Braelea adds, “Mom has the creative flair while I have the pragmatism to deal with practical issues – it’s a good balance.” This dynamic has now been carried through to the family business. “I learnt about creativity from my mother through a process of osmosis,” says Braelea. “She is a brilliant homemaker and the

ability to create a welcoming atmosphere is a skill that I picked up from her.”

This talent is clearly evident when you browse the many attractive nooks and crannies of The Mission’s House Gallery, situated in the historic home in Onrus where Braelea and her older brother Bevan grew up.

Glenda later turned the house into an art gallery and framery, and with Braelea’s help this mother-daughter team has now revamped and re-invented the gallery to also include a coffee shop and an exclusive selection of designer clothing, jewellery, and other hand-crafted accessories and décor items. The Mission’s House has also become a popular venue for intimate parties and functions.

While such a huge undertaking has the potential to strain even the best of relationships, mother and daughter have come through it stronger and closer than ever before. “My mother is the one person in the world with whom I know I can be brutally honest – and we’ll still be talking to each other the next day,” says Braelea.

Now also a grandmother to Braelea’s two children, five-

Glenda Pope with her granddaughter Kate and daughter Braelea

year-old Guy and threeyear-old Kate, Glenda says having grandchildren is a “fantastic” experience. Her own mother died when she was only 11 years old, so Braelea never knew her grandmother.

“I enjoy the children more as they grow older,” says Glenda, “because that is when they start learning things and we can engage in activities together such as drawing, colouring-in, creating sand art, or exploring rock pools. It is interesting to see how they are constantly changing and developing, and it’s fascinating to see the different genetics coming through.”

“I wouldn’t survive without my mom,” says Braelea. “She is always there to support me when I’m sick or tired or I have to go away – there’s no need to explain and she is always willing to help. It is also wonderful for my children to have a grandmother with whom they feel so at home. When it comes to trust and reliability she’s my number one. As the matriarch of our family she is my rock.”

“We’ll definitely be spending Mother’s Day together,” says Braelea. “We’ll probably drive out to a nice little restaurant somewhere in the countryside.”

Wilna Snyman and her daughter Lize van der Walt

Wilna Snyman and Lize van der Walt “In character and appearance, she takes after her father,” says veteran actress Wilna Snyman of her artist daughter, Lize van der Walt. “Yes, my mother and I are like chalk and cheese in many respects,” agrees Lize, “but the one thing we have in common is determination and perseverance. We have guts and live fearlessly according to our own beliefs, regardless of others’ opinions.”

After many years on the stage, in front of the camera and behind the microphone, Wilna now lives in Onrus Manor and talks openly about her battle with Alzheimer’s. Managing the disease, she says, is a daily preoccupation. Mother and daughter have grown very close over the years – they talk on the phone daily, and regularly do their shopping, visit local eateries and markets, watch DVDs and go to church together. But Lize says it wasn’t always like that during her high school years and early adulthood.

“As a teenager I was very rebellious,” she says. “My mother is a perfectionist and she was quite strict but I was stubborn and untidy – I still remember how annoyed she got about the state of my

room and cupboards.” After getting married at the tender age of 20, Lize and her husband later went to live in the UK where she worked as a fitness instructor.

After her divorce she shot to fame as a Gladiator, but after 12 years away she says she really missed her mother and wanted to come home.

“I was going through a difficult time and my mother’s wisdom and support was invaluable,” says Lize. “We grew even closer after the birth of my son Michael (now 9 years old) and the death of my father in 2011. We are on the same spiritual path now and whenever I feel lonely or down-hearted, my mother reminds me that I am never really alone. She is an integral part of my and Michael’s everyday life, sharing in the highs and lows, challenges and successes.”

Now it is also Lize’s turn to support her mother. “We laugh and cry together, and we take it day by day,” she says. It is clear that they enjoy each other’s company and laughter is always part of their conversation. Adds Wilna, “I always find something to be thankful for.

Now that I am in the swansong of my life, I know how important it is to live in the moment. Lize is very precious to me and life

without her is unthinkable. To raise a daughter is to complete the circle of life.”

For Mother’s Day this year, Wilna will join Lize, Michael and other family members for a traditional Sunday lunch.

Tamsin and Kirsten Koen “Mother’s Day is a very nice reminder to show appreciation for one’s mom, but for me, I like to value and appreciate my mother every day,” says thirteen-year-old Kirsten Koen. “I like to give her a card and some flowers in bed on Mother’s Day morning.

It is a special start to the day for us and then Mom heads off to work.”

Kirsten’s mom is none other than the dynamic and wellknown local business woman Tamsin Koen, who launched Just Pure, a proudly South African range of pure, allnatural skin and body care products, in 2007. The showroom is on the same premises as The Bistro, a popular eatery that was a natural extension of the Just Pure philosophy of returning to basics and old-fashioned values, and reflects the understated elegance radiated by its owner.

With her blonde hair and blue eyes, Kirsten shares her mother’s distinct familial genes and it is clear that mother and

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daughter enjoy a warm, comfortable and loving relationship. Both avid readers, they enjoy similar music, going for walks together on the cliff path, and have just begun joint yoga classes. “We also love to dance together - it is such fun!” says Tamsin.

Another shared interest is netball, and as an avid player in her youth, Tamsin is able to give Kirsten welcome tips in playing the sport. Kirsten also enjoys spending time at the Hermanus Animal Welfare, where she is a volunteer. “I help with grooming and socialisation. This process encourages shy animals to gain confidence and assists in preparing them for their adoptions.”

“Kirsten and I are blessed to

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Mother’s Day 8 May 2016 share a close relationship,” says Tamsin. “On Mother’s Day, we like to meet up as a family at the restaurant to share and enjoy a lunchtime meal together.”

The Bistro is like a second home to Kirsten and she often spends her afternoons there after school, doing her homework. “Kirsten often helps us in the shop and restaurant. As a result, she is familiar with baking and can also put together a meal.

This opportunity has instilled good business skills in her and afforded social interaction skills at a relatively young age.”

The Koen family are proudly local residents. Having recently returned from an overseas trip, Tamsin reflects,

Kirsten and her mom, Tamsin Koen

“It was such a privilege to be able to share an incredible holiday like that together.

However, we all looked forward to coming home, to where we are so happy, in beautiful Hermanus.”

Cathy and Ulla du Toit Another mother-anddaughter team who works together are Cathy and Ulla du Toit from Wine Village.

“Family means everything to us,” says Cathy, who started this iconic wine shop in Hermanus with husband Paul 18 years ago. As a qualified goldsmith and jewellery designer, Ulla left Cape Town four years ago to join the family business.

“My mother is our pillar of

Ulla and her mom, Cathy du Toit strength in the business,” says Ulla. “We all use her as a sounding board and seek her stamp of approval in everything we do. Cathy has the ability to focus and multitask, and she has the memory of an elephant – nothing escapes her attention. We always joke that my father is the owner of the business but my mother is the boss.”

During Ulla’s high school years the family lived in Botswana and she attended boarding school in Bloemfontein. “It was a difficult time and I missed my mom a lot,” says Ulla. “I was very rebellious and stubbornly refused to conform to the strict school rules.” But Cathy views her daughter’s independent streak as an asset and says she is an “adventurous spirit”

who takes after her father.

“It’s wonderful having her here,” she says. “Ulla has great business skills, she’s a sales lady par excellence and has a wonderful sense of humour. I wish I had her positive energy and her sharp wit!”

Although mother and daughter have different personalities and interests, they respect each other’s individuality and their relationship is based on friendship and their shared faith. “I embrace the philosophy of ‘carpe diem’ and living in the moment, as we never know which moment might be our last,” says Cathy. When it comes to the business, they both admit to being “control freaks” who value selfdiscipline and efficiency.

“But my mom also taught me that in a family business such as ours, it’s not always ‘all business’ – as a team we support each other like family and we also go the extra mile for our clients.”

Her mother is the one person she can always rely on, says Ulla. “It doesn’t matter how or when the paw-paw strikes the fan, I know my mom will always stay in control – nothing rattles her and she will always know what steps to take to rectify the matter. I would be lost without her.”

As their shop is open on Sundays, Ulla says they will have a family breakfast together on Mother’s Day before heading out to the Wine Village. Cathy’s favourite flowers might also be on the menu on this special day.

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EVENTS DIARY Thursday 12 May

• Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: In the courtyard at HPF cellar, The Village, from 9:00-13:00. Where wine and food lovers both local and international meet.

Wednesday 4 May • OAK Movie Night: Overstrand Arts/Kunste will screen their monthly movie at the Municipal Ausitorium, starting at 18:00. This month’s movie is A Beautiful Mind, starring Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly. Tickets are R30 for OAK members and R45 for non-members, available at the door. For enquiries, contact René du Plooy on 082 940 4238.

• Market in the Garden: At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, 09:00-14:00. A wonderful market set amongst the trees in the heart of town. Join the St Peter’s Coffee Morning and enjoy a sweet treat for only R10 and a cup of coffee or tea for only R5. Sit down in the shady garden and enjoy the surrounds.

• Rotary Club of Hermanus: Weekly meetings every Thursday at Mollergren Park, at 19:00.

Visitors welcome. Contact Ian Wallace on 082 895 8738 or Metcalf Fick on 082 568 2193.

Friday 6 May

• Stanford Saturday Morning Market: The Stanford Hotel, 09:30-12:00. Farmers, crafters and hobbyists bring to you homemade and home-baked goodies.

Saturday 7 May

Every Saturday • Hermanus parkrun: Meet at Hermanus Forest in Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley at 08:00. Free timed 5 km walk or run come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome.

• Lemm’s Corner Market: From 08:30, Main Road, Hermanus. Crafts, clothes, jewellery, bags, toys and art.

• Jimmy Nevis Live: The Caledon, 20:00.

Multi-Award Nominated Jimmy Nevis is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to making South African Music with international appeal. This alternative pop singer/songwriter and producer has become a household name and been wowing audiences with his gospel undertones, quirky lyrics, soulful vocals and catchy melodies. Doors open at 19:30.

Book with Computicket.

Monday 9 May

• Swallow Park Market: New market at Swallow Park, from 09:00-13:00

• Yay it’s May: Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk sees the 16 art galleries in the centre town remain open until 20:00 on the first Friday of every month. Follow the orange as you stroll from gallery to gallery, savour a glass of wine from our local wine route and enjoy the wonderful variety of art and fine craft on display. (There will be no Artwalk in June and July, and the event will resume on 5 August.)

See P10 for the HFF map.

Friday 13 May

• The Hermanus Country Market: Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:0013:00. Stunning food, fresh and wholesome goodies.

Thursday 5 May

• Hermanus Bird Club: Monthly Walk, Strandfontein and Rondevlei, led by Barbara Palmer. Meet at Onrus Trading Post at 07:30 and bring snacks and drinks for the outing.

Contact Mike Ford on 028 316 4790 for more details.

• U3A Open Meeting: Municipal Auditorium, at 17:30. The topic is ‘The Naval Battle of Jutland 1916’ and the speaker is Robin Richards.

• Gansbaai Fun Walk: Health and Active Gansbaai presents ‘Julle maak vir Gansbaai lekker’, a fun walk for the whole family, starting at 08:00 from Health and Active Gym to Stanfordsbaai and back (total 8km) on behalf of the De Kleine Gansies Pre-school.

Entrance Fees: Adults R50 and children under 16 years R30. Entry forms available at Health and Active or De Kleine Gansies Pre-school.

Registration for late entries will start at 08:00 on the day of the event at Health and Active.

• Hermanus Dutch Reformed Church Bazaar: Grobbelaar Hall, from 09:30. Bring family and friends for an enjoyable morning of homemade treats and good company.

• Applewood Harvest Festival and Tru-Cape Trail Running Challenge: Soak up the beauty of autumn in the country and the authenticity of a family-friendly apple festival with traditional games, Elgin craft cider and cool climate wines, food from local restaurants Peregrine, The Poolroom, The Hickory Shack and more. Take up the TruCape Trail Running Challenge which winds through the surrounding farmlands at the beginning of the day. For more details, visit www.applewood.co.za

• Cape Leopard Trust: Talk at Mollergren Park, 18:30 for 19:00, presented by Birdlife Overberg. Learn about the trust’s activities and their Boland Project, how they study these magnificent predators and what is currently known about their ecology and behaviour. R 80 pp, including supper. R25 cover charge for those not having supper.

Remember to bring your own drinks and glasses. RSVP: Helé Oosthuizen at birding@southernartsceramics.com or 073 456 0393.

Wednesday 11 May • Book signing: Meet author and conservationist Richard Peirce at The Book Cottage, from 15:00. Richard’s books, ‘The Poacher’s Moon’ and ‘Giant Steps’ will be for sale at a special price. Have your books signed by the author and enjoy a glass of wine. For more details, call 028 313 0834.

• Photography Chit Chat: Photowalkers offers an informal photographic meet-up every second Wednesday of the month at The Sudio, 17 Mimosa Street, at 19:00. Find them opposite Snuffels down the same driveway as the Hermanus Rainbow Trust. RSVP: funtimes@thephotowalkers.com • Supper & Movie Nights: Join South Hill wine estate in the Elgin Valley every Wednesday evening for sundowners at 18:00, supper at 19:00 and movie screening at 20:00. R135 pp all inclusive. The movie on 11 May is Fury (2014) starring Brad Pitt and rated one of the best war movies of the past decade, and on 18 May the movie is Brooklyn (2015), a rich period drama nominated for three Academy Awards, starring Saoirse Ronan. Stay-over packages and baby-sitting facilities available. Contact 021 844 0333 or events@southhill.co.za for more details or to book your seats.

• Art & Wine Auction: Stanford Valley Guest Farm, at 18:30. In aid of Okkie Smuts Primary School, Stanford. R100 pp. Drinks and snacks on arrival plus cash bar. Email adminokkiesmuts@orcawireless.co.za

Saturday 14 May • ‘Roer jou Voete’ Autumn Dance: Fund-raising ‘langarm’ dance for Marina’s School of Dance, at Grobbelaar Hall, from 18:30. A fun evening for young and old with babysitting facility. Food, cooldrinks and ice for sale but no cash bar, so bring your own drinks and glasses. Tickets at R50 pp available from Nicolize on 073 070 4507 or at the Scout Hall (opposite Hermanus High School) or R70 at the door.

Saturday & Sunday 14 & 15 May

• Elgin Mushroom Forage: Enjoy a day of fun as you learn about wild mushroom foraging with Gary Goldman aka The Mushroom Fundi.

This outdoor adventure in the beautiful Elgin Valley will be followed by a lovely country lunch and wine pairing from the range of Elgin Vintners wines – a bottle of wine is yours to take home. The all-inclusive cost is R695 for adults and R620 for children. For bookings and enquiries: dre@drejohnsoninc.com or 082 379 2623.

Sunday 15 May • Hermanus Comedy Club: Loads of comedy fun at The Classroom, The Village, at 18:00.

Hosted by Barry Hilton, with Rob van Vuuren, Khanyiso Kenqua and Justin Ray. Tickets at R80 pp available from the ‘Nou gaan ons braai’ stall on Market Square (opposite Oskars) or call 076 421 1813 / 083 270 3590.

Tuesday 17 May • Mushrooms in May: Join Whale Coast Conservation for their eco-adventure, from 11:00 to 14:00 (weather permitting). Gather mushrooms in fields of green, followed by a mushroom feast at Mogg’s Country Kitchen in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Adults R180, children R130, including lunch. To book, contact anina.wcc@gmail.com or 083 242 3295.

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3 MAY 2016

A fairytale of grim reality Dystopia: An exhibition by Paul Kneen Inspired by everyday logos, icons and world events at large, artist Paul Kneen adopts and adapts signs in our contemporary world to expose the troubling connections between them.

He dissects the many levels of social stratification, while intertwining strands that explore everything from the world of politics to the powerhouse of religion. His work manages to maintain a sharp sense of humour, yet still exposes the dangers of a warped collective consciousness.

Influenced by pop culture and street art from all over the world, Kneen has used the essence of these art forms as a starting point to express his view on the current situation of the world. Refusing to be bound to one particular art form, he directly links his choice of medium to his subject matter.

In this exhibition he showcases his wide range of artistic talent using traditional gold leaf techniques as well as more modern practices such as acrylics, screen printing and hand-cut stencils. The process of screen printing

became the perfect choice for his work on canned hunting, which is aptly titled Canned Hell. In the same way Andy Warhol used it to express his opinions of overcommercialisation and production, Knees uses the medium to convey the ‘production’ of lions for slaughter.

His Fools Gold series examines the eradication of Africa’s wildlife due to poaching. “The idea that future generations could only see certain species in books one day is frightening,” says Kneen. “It’s the pointless extermination of wildlife, among others, to fuel greed and feed a commercial demand.”

Another of his works, fittingly titled Reality Cheque, looks at the divide between rich and poor, and the unparalled desires of different socio economic classes.

Dystopia is the first solo show in South Africa by this UK born artist who has made South Africa his home for the past six years. Having gained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Sheffield University in South Yorkshire, Paul and his wife have settled in Hermanus where he paints full time.

Dystopia was conceived through his frustration over the social and political injustices in the world. Kneen hopes his work will incite discussion and provoke questions about the themes he addresses. Events affecting the globe at large are his stimulus and Africa his canvas.

“As an artist, I feel it is my social responsibility to raise awareness on issues, no matter how awkward or uncomfortable the topic. For me, the essence of visual art is getting a message across to the person viewing the piece of work, without a word having to be spoken,” he explains.

This extensive show features over 40 original pieces and will be on display at The Rossouw Modern SPACE Gallery in Harbour Road. Dystopia opens on Friday 6 May at 17:30. For more info, contact Jozua Rossouw on 028 313 2222 or info@rossouwmodern.com

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Around the world in a ‘Wish Mobile’ the age of 35 whom she encountered along the way to write a wish for the world on her car.

Many residents still fondly remember the late Sue McNaught, who opened the doors of The Book Cottage in Harbour Road on 1 May 1996.

“I’m sure she would be very proud to know we are still going strong in our shiny new premises in Long Street,” says current owner John Morris.

As part of their 20th birthday celebrations, The Book Cottage is hosting several events that kicked off on Monday afternoon with a talk

by Annette Jahnel, the author of ‘My Year of Beds’. Annette is currently staying in Hermanus while working on her new book, ‘Searching for Galileo’.

Describing herself as “a newage nomad, a pusher of boundaries, a catalyst, destroyer of boxes, peaceful anarchist and questioner of everything”, Annette set out in April 2006 on an epic journey to drive from Munich to Shanghai in her modest delivery van which she christened The Wish Mobile.

In ‘My Year of Beds’ she describes her resolution in simple terms: “I would drive to China alone, in my own car.

That way I would be free from schedules and completely independent. I wanted to see what the ‘real’ world looked

‘My Year of Beds’ is a highly entertaining and enjoyable read. Annette’s acutely descriptive prose sweeps the reader along on her groundbreaking journey, describing not only the colours, smells, foods and ambience of the countries she travelled to, but also the people she met along the way who live in well-known big cities as well as obscure little villages off the beaten track, often in abject poverty.

Her punchy style is honest, unpretentious and refreshing, and even in the most challenging of situations she never loses her sharp sense of humour.

like, how others lived outside the glossy travel brochures.”

Having run the bureaucratic gauntlet and overcome tremendous odds to achieve this goal, which everyone had told her was “impossible”, Annette found herself compelled to continue.

Shipping the Wish Mobile from Shanghai to Los Angeles, she drove across the USA and continued on to England and Europe, back to where she started from in Germany almost exactly one year later. She had covered a distance of 62 000 km on three continents, driven through

25 countries and slept in 169 different beds – the first woman to circle the globe in a land vehicle.

To add “some small meaning” to her journey, Annette turned the Wish Mobile into an art project which she dubbed ‘One planet One people’. It entailed inviting men above

“The reason I travelled alone was not just to learn to know the world, but to learn to know myself,” says Annette.

“To travel alone is to develop a deep awareness of your own ignorance and insignificance and to become aware of the grand splendour of the planet that harbours us and the universe of which we are a small part.”

‘My Year of Beds’ is available at The Book Cottage at 17 Long Street, Hermanus.

New home for Originals Gallery

Local artist Terry Kobus of Originals Gallery is delighted to have moved into his new premises in Harbour Road. The owner of the previous business, Piccolino, handed the keys over to Terry on Sunday 1 May, just in time for the next Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) Artwalk on Friday 6 May. “It was a bitter-sweet moment,” says Terry, “as I’d had my studio/gallery in the Royal Centre for 6 years. But I’m very excited to now be part of the art hub in Harbour Road.”

Terry and his partner, Roelof Coetzee, immediately swung into action on Sunday to get the new gallery painted and hung with Terry’s artworks. They will take turns to work in the gallery during morning and afternoon shifts. Their old premises in the Royal Centre have been taken over by Deon Steyn of The Book Collector, previously in the same building as The Barefoot Cook in Aberdeen Street. The new Originals is situated between the Auberge Burgundy and Lembu Gallery. It will now be the first gallery on the HFF map, which seems fitting as Terry was one of the original Arts Committee members who launched HFF. This popular monthly art amble has now become one of the highlights on the cultural and social calendar of Hermanus.

My Pet

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3 MAY 2016

Beware of tick bite fever City and suburban pet owners make the common error of believing their pets won’t get tick bite fever because their dogs and cats don’t play in long grass but this deadly disease is most certainly not restricted to rural farmlands and city veterinarians are currently dealing with several cases.

Biliary kills more dogs in South Africa than any other disease. It is caused by the parasite Babesia canis rossi, which is transmitted by the yellow dog tick and is particularly virulent in Southern Africa. The tick most commonly attaches on the neck and shoulders of animals (though all ticks should be removed from your pet, where ever they occur). While it feasts on your pet’s blood, the parasite is transmitted through the tick’s saliva destroying your pet’s red blood cells. Not all ticks carry the parasite, so if your pet is bitten it doesn’t mean that it will get the disease but it’s wise to use precautions to prevent your dog getting bitten in the first place.

Clinical signs of biliary usually take up to 14 days to appear. Your dog will never develop immunity and can

fall ill from this disease again and again.

• Muscle pain and lameness

There are two forms of tick bite fever, Babesia and Ehrlichia (Ehrlichiosis) and they frequently occur together though Ehrlichia is not as simple to diagnose and often difficult to treat.

Treatment This is not a disease you can cure at home. Don’t wait a day or two to see if your dog feels better especially if you live in South Africa, as he or she may be dead by then.

Your vet will diagnose Babesia via a blood smear under a microscope. It is usually easy and quick to diagnose and the sooner diagnosis is made, the more successful treatment is likely to be.

Common symptoms • Loss of appetite and lethargy are usually the first signs • Anaemia: pale or whitish gums and inside of the eyelids • Fever: your dog may pant a lot to get rid of the excess heat though not all dogs with biliary have fevers • A very heavy pulse • An enlarged spleen • Jaundice: the whites of the eyes, the gums and the urine will show up bright yellow. This is an advanced, very serious symptom of biliary • Brown or rust-coloured urine (port wine urine): seen in complicated biliary. The dog will usually be admitted to hospital • Vomiting and yellow to black diarrhoea • Seizures, howling and disorientation • Shock lung: this is usually fatal, and quick in onset

However, dogs with complicated biliary may unfortunately die despite all veterinary treatment, especially if they have shock lung.

Prevention Wash bedding regularly and keep kennels clean. Seal cracks where ticks might hide. All pets should have tick prevention every four weeks. There is a range of spot-ons, powders, shampoos, sprays and impregnanted collars available from Vetshops and

veterinarians. These include chewy flavoured pills Bravecto and Nexguard which don’t wash off and are safe for pups; the Seresto Collar which offers tick and flea protection for up to eight months; monthly topical Frontline Plus and for cats, Revolution..

Bravecto and Nexguard tablets are currently considered most effective.

Ask your veterinarian to assist you in choosing the best option for your pet or ask your Vetshop assistant for advice.

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Eggy Bread for a Special Mum I adore Eggy bread with a little maple syrup and some berries.

Perhaps a little thick cream or yoghurt to make it a wee bit more decadent. This recipe is scrumptiously delicious and one that will make all mums feel truly spoilt.

• 2 eggs • 1 tablespoon water • 1 tablespoons oil for frying • 1 teaspoon butter • 2 slices Ciabatta or bread of your choice, approx 1.5cm thick

Oglio, Olio e Peperoncino Spaghetti

• Crack eggs into a bowl.

Add water and gently whisk with a fork.

• Heat oil & butter in a griddle or non-stick pan on a medium heat.

• Dip bread into the eggy mixture, turning it a couple of times to ensure that the mixture is absorbed.

• Lift bread out of mixture, allow excess liquid to drip off before adding it to the hot pan.

• Cook for approx 3 minutes on each side.

Spaghetti for ‘mamone’ No one loves his mama more than an Italian boy – and Fabio Lenci from Fabio’s Ristorante in Hermanus is no exception. As one of three boys, he often helped his mama, Silva Lenci, in the kitchen from a young age by standing on a chair next to the stove.

Fruit Salad: • 1/2 banana sliced • 3 strawberries • a few blueberries • juice of half an orange • 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey • a few mint leaves Combine all the fruit salad ingredients together. Set

aside. Once eggy bread is slightly crisp and a golden colour, lift it out with a fish slice onto serving plate.

Top with the fruit salad and spoon the juices over the eggy bread. Make it extra special by adding a

dollop of Mascarpone cheese.

Recipe supplied by Emilia Knight, Facebook page - Clean Eating Recipes by Appetite Knight

“The whole family usually gathered in the kitchen,” says Fabio, “and everyone was involved with the family meals – from the setting of the table, the preparations and the cooking right through to the washing up. We had no TV and we sat down as a family to a three course meal every night – we still do!” Fabio says the close bond between him

Oglio, Olio e Peperoncino Spaghetti Ingredients • 2 to 3 whole fresh or dried peperoncini (small red chillis) • 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley • 3/4 pound linguine or spaghetti • Salt Method • Put a pot of salted water on to boil for the

and his mother has repeated itself with his own son, Claudio and his mother Alta. At 19, Claudio is currently learning the ropes of the restaurant business and is regularly to be found at Fabio’s Ristorante. “He’s a real mama’s boy that one,” laughs Fabio. “In Italian he will be called a ‘mamone’.”

Fabio says a typical Italian three course meal will start with a small portion of pasta or risotto, followed by the main dish of steak, lamb or chicken, and rounded off with ice cream as dessert.

“When Italian boys or young men go out for the evening, their mama will usually wait up for them to ensure that

pasta. Remove the stems of the peperoncini, halve them lengthwise, then slice them into 1/4-inch lengths.

• Put the oil, garlic and peperoncini in a large deep pan set over medium-high heat, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the garlic is translucent. Add the parsley to the pan, and turn off the heat.

• Meanwhile, cook the pasta until it is al dente, nearly but not quite done and still a bit chalky in the middle. Drain, and reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid.

they have arrived home safely. If they’ve partied all night and get home hungry, she will whip up something to eat before everyone goes to bed.”

This late-night snack would be something quick and easy to prepare, such as the Roman staple oglio, olio & peperoncino (garlic, olive oil and chilli) spaghetti, which is seasoned with salt and sprinkled with parmesan cheese. It’s surprisingly simple, tasty and so easy to prepare. Start boiling the water for the spaghetti before you do anything else, as the sauce takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish.

• When the oil has cooled for a couple of minutes, add ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, and reduce over high heat by about half.

• Add the pasta, and stir vigorously as it continues to cook.

• Add the reserved pasta water a bit at a time as necessary to finish cooking the pasta, and develop the thickened sauce.

• Season with salt, and serve.

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A trip down Memory Lane

A group of old friends who had been at school together at Hermanus Primary in the 1960s recently spent a weekend together in Hermanus after not having seen one another for decades. With all of them having their 60th birthdays coming up this year, they decided “why not celebrate it together?”

“We first got the idea for a reunion when my friend Ruth Fry, who lives in Scotland, told me she was coming to Hermanus for two weeks,” says Nadine Petersen, who lives in Kuils River. “Some of us had not seen each other for 40+ years – we finished Std. 5 (Grade 7) together way back in 1968! After that the group scattered to various high schools and boarding schools and matriculated elsewhere.

But we managed to get in touch and arrange this special weekend – Facebook is a great tool to get people together.”

Nadine says that of the 16 classmates in the Englishspeaking class in those years, seven managed to attend the reunion. “Three of our classmates have passed

away, one is in Australia, one in New Zealand, and one we have not been able to locate.”

The four women, Nadine and Ruth, together with Shone le Roux-Marx from Claremont and Kate Severein from Barrydale, stayed at Chesham House B&B. The three men were Robin Weeks from Knysna, James Christie-Smith from Kommetjie and Arthur Everest from Sea Point, who respectively stayed at the Windsor Hotel and with friends in town.

“We met up on the Friday afternoon and spent a wonderful weekend catching up, enjoying the lovely sights and the wonderful restaurants. On Friday evening we dined at Harbour Rock restaurant, and on Saturday we had lunch at Mogg’s followed by dinner at La Pentola. On our last day, Sunday, we watched the sun rise from Rotary Drive before enjoying a hearty breakfast together – and then it was time to say good-bye again.”

One of the highlights of their

reunion was going back to their old school, says Nadine.

“We were very fortunate in that the principal, Barry Cilliers, very kindly unlocked the stone building and gave us the tour to see our old classrooms. It was great seeing how some things still look the same, but there’s also much renewal and the grounds are beautiful. Back in our day the kindergarten, primary and high school were situated on the premises – I think we were all pretty much in awe of how the school has progressed.”

Of course there are many other ways in which Hermanus has changed since the group lived here.

“Yes, the town looks quite different and some of the houses that we’d lived in are no longer there,” says Nadine. “I used to live in the house where the Wine Hoppers is now situated, when it still had its other rooms attached and a big yard. And where Lemm’s Corner is today, was Ruth’s home and her dad, Bernard Lemonsky’s, shop Lemm’s Stores. The parking area between the Village Square and The Marine used to be

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our playing field, and the Old Harbour was a place where we could swim and play, and watch the fisherman bring in their boats and clean the fish on the slabs!”

Nadine says they also reminisced about the old Adelphi bioscope which no longer exists, and Uncle Coena’s Café next to the bioscope which is now the Hermanus Pharmacy. “And the old Royal Hotel and The Astoria Hotel are now all just shops!” But the ambience of the town and the hospitality of the people made their reunion an unforgettable experience, says Nadine.

“Words cannot describe how much fun we had – I haven’t laughed that much in ages!

All the reminiscing and the ‘do you remember when?’ memories that we share.

And of course some of us remember different things, but we all remember what an absolute privilege it was to grow up in a very different time and place where we had the freedom of the village and no worries (other than school work)!”

A group of old school friends who met up recently for a nostalgic reunion in their home town of Hermanus after more than 40 years.

Back in their old classroom at Hermanus Primary where the group completed Std. 5 in 1968.

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The Hermanus Round Table celebrated its 20th anniversary with a gala dinner at Die Plaaskombuis in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Round Table is a social networking and charitable organisation for men between 18 and 40 with the aim of enjoying fellowship with people from all walks of life, as well as organising fund-raising events and community activities. A new council was also appointed at the dinner. They are Gerhard Louw (Secretary), Ben Calitz (ViceChraiman), Francois Bezuidenhout (Chairman) and Wiaan Bishop (Treasurer).

The Westcliff Residents’ Association (WRA) cleaned up the Orothamnus Common on Saturday 30 April. According to WRA Chair, Jan Cilliers, the common was cleared of rubbish, weeds, invasive plants and even building rubble. “We get together once a month to clean up one of the many commons in the area. Through this we also try to inform residents and the public about the importance of these areas and the negative impact it has when rubble is dumped on them,” says Jan. Di Marais, Pat Miller, Lee Burman and Margaret Stanway of the Hermanus Botanical Society visited the Orothamnus Common after the clean-up to assess the variety and health of the fynbos. “They were very impressed with how well the natural fynbos was preserved.” The WRA team consisted of Pam Nel, Mariette Pitlo, Desi Walker, Ronel van Niekerk, Lesley Cilliers, Andrew Murray, Averil Sander, Ilse Bigalke and Arne Pitlo. Not pictured are André van Niekerk and Jan Cilliers.

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Protect yourself from flu this winter

Did you know that the common cold accounts for up to three years of the average person’s life? The reasons behind this rather depressing statistic are not easy to pinpoint, and in contrast to what many believe, have nothing to do with the chill in the air.

And while it is the most common illness among humans it does not occur as a result of wet hair, stress, a change in temperature, cold feet or bad weather. The fact of the matter is that when the weather forecast is at a low, our immune systems are weakened making us more susceptible to colds. And with winter on hand, Granny’s trusted trio of ginger, lemon and honey may be on many people’s shopping lists.

Arnold Nepgen of A. Stewart Pharmacy

But, says Arnold Nepgen of A. Stewart Pharmacy, all of us need a little more protection than Granny’s remedy.

“Prevention is better than cure and with our busy lifestyle and stress our immune systems are very low, making it easier to catch colds and flu. It is very important to boost the immune system, not only with vitamins and minerals, but also with probiotics to help the colon. 70% of your immune system is determined by your colon,” says Arnold.

injection to boost your lungs,” says Arnold.

According to him flu injections are advised for everyone, especially if you are elderly or at risk due to chest or heart problems. “To get this injection, you must be free of any cold and flu symptoms. There is also an

Handy hands • Hands are described as a germ factory for a reason, so be sure to wash your hands several times throughout the day using a sanitizer.

• While warm soap and water also work, make sure you don’t rush the process and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds to kill all germs.

• Use paper towel to dry your hands and close the tap so that you don’t come into contact with germs once again after washing them.

• Keep your hands away from your nose and mouth wherever possible so that they don’t attract additional germs. And if you need to sneeze, try to do so in the crook of your arm so that the germs on your hands don’t come into contact with your nose.

In South Africa, the best time to get your flu vaccine is before the end of April, before the flu season sets in, and before the virus spreads or as soon as the vaccine becomes available.

However, if you have missed this period, the vaccine can still be taken at any time during the winter season.

Handy Flu Tips:

Surface issues • Colds and flu are spread by viruses which can easily spread from surface to person and person to person. For this reason, it’s a good idea to carry an alcohol-based cleanser with

you to sterilise any surfaces you believe to be putting your health at risk. Antiseptic wipes should also be used to cleanse desktops and phones regularly.

• Always dispose of used tissues as they are the ultimate germ carriers.

Build immunity • Exercise to build your immunity. Research suggests that by working out and making your heart pump a little faster you strengthen your immune system.

• If you’re already sick, the general rule of thumb is that you can continue to do so if the symptoms are experienced above the neck, such as stuffy noses and sore throats. If, however, you have a temperature and are experiencing aches and pains in your body you should rest and give the gym a skip.

• Don’t worry, be happy. It’s a well-known fact that a positive attitude can boost your immune system.

- Health24

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3 MAY 2016

Creativity and Innovation in business Creative (kree-àytiv) could best be described as having the ability or power to create things.

An act of being productive as characterized by originality, expressiveness and imagination. A modern-day definition would simply be “thinking outside of the box”.

Creativity is also identified by the ability to perceive the world in new ways, to find hidden patterns, to make connections between seemingly unrelated phenomena and to generate solutions. Innovation, on the other hand, is innovating that which is newly introduced or discovered. In other words, a distinct change away from the normal or already known.

Creativity and Innovation, these two key words make up many a remarkable story about the evolution of hugely successful global companies and iconic brands. Think of the great inventions of the industrial era - trains, planes, electricity, telephones and kitchen appliances - to the modern day Internet, computers, tablets and cell phones. Historically, South Africa has numerous examples of truly creative products in the marketplace – iconic consumer brands such as All Gold, Appletiser, Marmite, Jungle Oats, Castle Lager, Liqui-Fruit, Ouma rusks and Mrs Balls chutney.

While our innovations are a lot less numerous, they are equally iconic – SASOL, Kreepy Krauly and Rooibos Tea are just three such examples. We also have world firsts in space exploration with uniquely South African stargazing and satellite technologies. On the medical front, Dr Chris Barnard was the first in the world to conduct successful openheart surgery. We supply Angora wool and mohair to the world. And we are the only country to have VW Citi Golfs on our roads.

So, what then is the core of creativity? What’s behind the power or ability to create things?

Surely there are no predetermined technical requirements to be able to be creative and innovative. It’s all natural - every human being has an inborn ability to be creative. There is, however, a vast difference between dreaming and being creative.

Creative people do dream but they turn their dreams into reality. Dreamers dream but nothing transpires. Thus, there

The art of thinking out the box for entrepreneurs is no creativity without some innovation. Creativity without innovation is stagnant imagination.

Students, learners and new venture entrepreneurs must be taught how to evolve their ideas into workable concepts with the aim of

becoming innovative Brand Pioneers. As South Africans, we should become more and more creative exploring the fundamentals of local skills and apply this knowledge to new world economies.

Firstly, young entrepreneurs

starting out in life need to learn how to become more creative with whatever they have available and by so doing not only improve their own quality of life but also that of their fellow humans.

As well as the environment in which they live. Yes, one can learn to become more cre-

ative. Creativity is a life-skill.

Secondly, teachers and trainers with expertise and lifelong experience should be supported to further the creativeness and innovation levels amongst our people and should have adequate support of finances and facilities to do just this.

Learner interventions are to be encouraged and rewarded in the promotion of such creative initiatives.

To be creative does not command a state-of-the-art office or factory environment.

As history has taught us, it is often from the most humble of beginnings that comes great success. The South African entrepreneurial billionaire, Mark Shuttleworth, began his outsourcing software computer company operating out of a garage. His passion and innovation also led him to become South Africa’s first astronaut in space. The sky is the limit when big dreams have us reaching beyond the stars.

The sluggish global economy and ever increasing unemployment and poverty forces every business owner in our country to be more creative and innovative in their thinking. To learn to do more with less - or at best with very little - and to eliminate those crippling and wasted expenditures.

We need to involve all stakeholders in various meaningful think tanks and collaborations to bring about new concepts of manufacturing, to foster learnerships and mentorships especially in life-skills and entrepreneurial training, to encourage recycling, reusing and reducing in eco-friendly materials. To creating sustainable and waterwise food produce and supply.

Aggressive programs to lower the burden of rising prices and improve the quality of proudly South African products and services. All of the above will help culminate in a creative liberation of new hope and prosperity for our country, especially for our youth that represent the future of our Rainbow Nation.

We all have the inherent and natural desire to find happiness. To live and eat well, to progress, to maximize our potential, to be successful.

To be able to create, have fun, do an honest day’s work and to provide for our own needs and that of our families without having to loot, steal or corrupt that which is honest, legal and righteous.

SOLOBEAR aims to identify and help promising young entrepreneurs and new venture start-ups through a unique art development programme. Creativity and innovation are in our DNA and are our constant source of inspiration. It is never ending!

Sport

Sport written & compiled by: Tony O’Hagan

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NEWS

Canoeists compete for trophies Canoeists from seven clubs in the Western Province showed their paddling skills while competing for the Stanford Trophy, which forms part of a series of races, with the ultimate prize being the President's Trophy.

The Hermanus race was the second leg of 16 contests taking place between March and September each year and these results decide the President's Trophy. The Hermanus race was organised by the Milnerton Canoe Club, under the chairmanship of Richard Allen. There were 55 entrants in the race competing for points in the single K1 canoe class. The 16

races are allocated between single K1 and double K2 canoeists with the President's Trophy up for grabs for both classes.

The Hermanus leg of the President's Trophy took place on 23 April, and was decided over 14kms of the Klein Rivier, starting and finishing at the Hermanus Yacht Club.

The Stanford Trophy was first competed for in 1963 and the President's Trophy, first paddled for in 1966. One of the competitors in the recent Hermanus race, 67-year-old Giel Van Deventer, took part in this event 50 years ago in 1966.

The club has 25 members and fields only the Super League team, as not all members are available for league fixtures. A number of members just enjoy playing netball on a Thursday evening when practices are held at Curro School. The

practices take place under the watchful eye of coach, Lizelle Munnik.

The Super League team consists of a squad of 12 players, with 7 on the field of play and 5 on the reserve bench. The replacement format is similar to that practiced in both soccer and rugby.

The Super League consists of 6 teams which falls under the auspices of the Overberg Netball Federation, under the umbrella of the Western Cape Netball region. All

Weather conditions were ideal for the canoeists and in the winner's circle for the K1 men was Stuart Maclaren

from the Peninsula Canoe Club, paddling under the Eurosteel banner. The ladies K1 division was won by

Melanie van Niekerk of the Milnerton Canoe Club.

A wonderful day in Hermanus was had by all.

Jennie Stenerhag in action at the picturesque Arabella Hotel & Spa in Kleinmond on Sunday, 24 April 2016 claiming gold in the women’s 50km Cell C Arabella MTB Challenge in a combined finishing time of 04 hours 40 minutes 36 seconds. Erik Kleinhans won the men’s division with a time of 04 hours 01 minute 36 seconds.

Danette Smith (pictured) and Chad Gordon set the course ablaze in the 15km Cell C Arabella Trail Run Challenge claiming victory in 01 hour 07 minutes 57 seconds and 01 hour 23 minutes 02 seconds respectively.

Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

Photo: Ewald Sadie

Hermanus Netball shoots to the top The Hermanus Netball Club was promoted from the Overberg 1st league to the region's Super League this year. The team has got off to a flying start, having won all three of their games in the Super League, including a victory over the Caledon Club, winners of the division in 2015.

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Super League matches are played on Saturdays in Caledon and from these fixtures an Overberg team is selected to participate for higher honours in the Western Cape region.

Hermanus Netball is proud that three of their players have been selected for this elite squad.

The Hermanus Netball Club in its current form was started in 1990 by the current Club President, Elsabe Henn with whom enquiries can be made on 076 155 9020.

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19 3 MAY APRIL 2016 2016

Schools

Hermanus, it begins with You(th) Hermanus High School recently became one of the many schools all over the country participating in the internationally recognised programme, The President’s Award Youth Empowerment.

As a member of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Association, this selfdevelopment programme is open to young people between the ages of 14 and 25, and part of a family of over 140 countries that operate the Award around the world.

The mission of the President’s Award Programme is is to empower the youth and enable them to become responsible active citizens within their communities.

Operating in South Africa since 1983, this initiative has already played a role in bringing about change in the lives of over 130,000 young people.

The four pillars of the

programme are skill development, physical recreation, community service, and the adventurous journey.

The involvement of learners in these four activities, with the mentorship of Award Leaders, has the potential to change their perception about themselves and their world. It teaches them about vital issues such as health, political and social life, as well as the environment.

By providing a balanced, non-competitive framework for self-development, the programme aims to increase the learners’ self-esteem and enhance their capacity to achieve in whatever context they find themselves.

Each level of the Award – Bronze, Silver and Gold – has a different set of minimum requirements in each of the sections (Service, Skill, Physical and Recreation),

averaging at least an hour or more a week. Each level encourages participants to take part in some form of physical activity, perform community service, learn a skill as well as complete an outdoor journey. Different hours are required for each activity as well as a time period in which to complete these various activities.

This Award is not a competition, nor does it in any way depend on sporting or academic ability; it simply requires a desire for personal discovery, growth and development, as well as the self-discipline to complete the programme and submit all the information required by the President’s Award.

With many of Hermanus High School's students taking part and being well into the swing of their various community activities, sporting events and skills development, we wish them the best of luck with the long

hours of hard work ahead.

Once they have completed their programme, they will undoubtedly have gained valuable insights, knowledge and skills, and have taken the first steps into an empowered future.

By integrating the values of the programme into their lives, learners will be able to make informed choices about their future and believe that their dreams can be turned into reality.

- Leijla Steyn

Gershwin Hendricks and Lwando Mbovane from Curro were selected for the Overberg U/17 Soccer Team. They were in action at the Western Cape Regional Trials on Saturday 30 April.

In the back row, from left, are Callum Haskell, Anthony Holthausen, Christian Pearce, Brorn Govender, Nazli Gillion, John Chancey, Dirk Troost, Elana Coetzee and Chloe Knott. Front row: Jurie Bezuidenhout, Mignon van Zyl, Liam Gruss, and Mathew Pearce. Absent: Siyamthemba Qotyana and Phila Nokwe.

The SA JKA Western Cape Regional championships held on 23 April was the first championship where all participants who won medals received SA JKA Provincial colours. They will be included in the Western Cape team to compete on 20 and 21 May at the SA National championships at the Standard Bank Arena in Johannesburg. An SA JKA National team will then be selected to compete in the JKA International Shotocup championships to be held in Ireland. Sensei Ronnie said after the Western Cape championships, “I am extremely proud of the JKA Overstrand karateka’s who competed this year – they won 19 medals in total! Christian Pearce once again took Gold in the Kumite Division. I am looking forward to the Nationals where these athletes will compete against the best in the country.”