FROM THE EDITOR

Firstly, Ponsonby muso Jonathan Besser, known to many simply as Bess. His friends told us, “Bess was an ebullient character, living life with a zest and crackle whether rambunctiously playing the piano, composing with an innate musicality and fervour, or guffawing over a bottle of red with his many friends and collaborators.”

He was dealing so graciously with the trials of motor neurone disease, but his passing last month was a merciful release from the ravages of this cruel condition. Rest in Peace dear Bess.

The second to pass was Billy Farnell of Shanghai Lil’s fame. Having spent 65 years as a full time piano player, this iconic performer died peacefully at home on Valentine’s Day.

Billy knew everyone including the infamous Madam Flora McKenzie, who lived for years in St Mary’s Bay. His evenings at Shanghai Lil’s were about giving people an occasion, a different night out, says his partner Russell, who went on to say, “I’ve been with Billy since the 1980s. He was a very fine musician himself and we are lucky he knows so many other great musicians.”

Billy was a good age at 93 and his music will live on forever. He was very proud to be on the December 2014 front cover of Ponsonby News with Jacinda.

Our front cover this issue features the team at CannaPlus+, the new medicinal cannabis clinic breaking barriers to improve Kiwis' quality of life. They have just opened on Ponsonby Road opposite Bambina. Helene Ravlich tells us she enjoyed exploring Westmoreland Street last month. Once a largely drab, industrial precinct in the heart of Grey Lynn, Westmoreland Street is now a thriving hub of boutique retail, wellness and dining establishments that locals love. (MARTIN LEACH)  PN

WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

MATT & RYAN

N 1 IN GREY LYNN *

“Professional and experienced, nothing was ever too much bother and no question was ever unanswered. From the moment the property was listed until it was sold they were with us every step of the way.

Dana & Paul - Sandringham

Matt O’Rourke 021 375 909

m.orourke@barfoot.co.nz Ryan Harding 021 621 580

r.harding@barfoot.co.nz

SINCE 1996

OUR CONTRIBUTORS IT’S A TEAM EFFORT... WE COULDN’T DO IT WITHOUT OUR CONTRIBUTORS

CONNOR CRAWFORD

I am a working artist and photographer with a colourful and rhythmic perspective. I enjoy shooting the front covers of Ponsonby News.

DAVID HARTNELL - MNZM

For the last 53 years I’ve been a freelance entertainment journalist and author. I’ve lived in the Grey Lynn area for nearly three decades; I have met and interviewed some amazing people.

FINN MCLENNAN-ELLIOTT

I work as a booker, promoter and festival programmer. Active in all areas of the music community; folk music is my specialty. KEN RING

My yearly NZ Weather Almanacs began in 1999. During the tragic 2011 Christchurch earthquakes, my work created international interest. I currently live in Ponsonby.

KERRY LEE

I’ve been a freelance writer for a year now, and what I love most are the wonderful people I’ve meet along the way. #best job.

LUCY KENNEDY

I am a young local writer who loves to read! Each month you will find my reviews of new books for people who love to read as much as I do.

HONOUR MITCHELL

I have lived in the Ponsonby area all of my life. I write the column ‘Teen Picks’ which explores everything on offer in the greater Ponsonby area. PHIL PARKER

Journalist and published author, I have had a career involving both wine writing and hosting boutique wine tours in the Auckland region.

HELENE RAVLICH

A freelance writer and copywriter for almost 20 years, I have written for publications all over the world and couldn’t imagine myself in any other job. PIPPA COOM

I am Councillor for Waitemata and Gulf Ward on Auckland Council. Formerly, Chair Waitemata Local Board.

JOHN APPLETON

I have a keen interest in nutritional medicine and how it may be used to support people with chronic illnesses. ROSS THORBY

I have had a wanderlust for travel ever since I was old enough to own a passport. Since I discovered cruising, I have become unstoppable.

JOHN ELLIOTT

I am the founder of Ponsonby News and write for the magazine. My career has included politics, education and publishing. My interests include the environment, the economy and social justice. SOFIA ROGER WILLIAMS

A vegan for over a year and vegetarian for over seven years with a passion for writing. I am a local student reviewing some of Ponsonby’s best vegan eats.

Pippa Coom. Your local councillor.

My monthly report to you is on the Waitematā Local Board agenda, 15 March. Please get in touch. Email pippa.coom@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, visit pippacoom.co.nz or call me on 021 926 618.

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