Stanford river talk february 2015 by Stanford River Talk

STANFORD RIVER TALK Volume 114 | FEBRUARY 2015 | Stanford‘s monthly newspaper | R14

h g u o r h t g n i v Wea c i f f a r t y r t coun

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contact us • EDITOR – Phil Murray 082 667 0619 philippa.murray@gmail.com • ADVERTSING & LAYOUT – Sandra Slabbert 079 523 8453 design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za • ACCOUNTS – Michelle Hardie ed@stanfordrivertalk.co.za www.stanfordrivertalk.co.za find our business page on FACEBOOK MONTHLY CONTRIBUTORS Suzanne Francois-Rossouw, Andrew Herriot, Mike Horn, Olga Koorts, Karen McKee, Don MacIver, Martin Ranger, Bryan Robertson, Tasha Saha, Naas Terblanche and Tania Weich.

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Taken by Peter Hochfelden. Editorial Contributions & Disclaimer Editorial contributions are welcome and should include top quality photos where relevant. Articles will be printed under the contributor‘s name or an accepted nom-de-plume if the full name and address is provided. All contributions are voluntary and not paid for. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend, abridge or reject any article. Opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editor. Copyright All material in this issue is copyrighted, and belongs to The Really Famous Publishing CC unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be reproduced without prior permission. Published and printed by The Really Famous Publishing CC.

☎☎☎☎☎☎☎☎☎ STANFORD EMERGENCY NUMBERS Fire & Rescue Emergencies 028 312 2400 • 079 507 7326 Overstrand Emergency Control Room 028 313 8111 Police 028 341 0601• 10177 Sewage truck 028 341 8500 MEDICAL Ambulance 10177 Hermanus Medi-Clinic 028 313 0168 Hermanus Provincial Hospital 028 312 1166 Stanford Clinic 028 341 0933

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eds notes February is bird month in Stanford. Keen twitchers from around the Overberg strut their stuff and fluff out their tailfeathers as people from near and far migrate to our little nest in the woods for the Walker Bay Bird Fair. Watch out for zip-pocket waistcoats and binocular-toting folks stealthily moving around the village with their ears and eyes tuned in to the skies. And try to be quiet so as not to disturb the little aerial artistes. Stanford is always humming and this month is no different. We celebrate Valentines Day with pictures of local couples whose romances have stood the test of time (Will you be my Valentine? page 9) and we get the juices flowing with a chocolate sauce fit for your Valentine's dessert (Kitchen Talk, page 15). Keen gardener, Annie Ranger, offers some of her private tips on how to grow roses – everybody's favourite romantic flower. (Everything's coming up roses, page 13). School is back to varying responses of glee or glumness, and we welcome the children on their first day at our local schools (School Talk, page 6 & 7). We also welcome a new family and a new baby to the village (Page 8) while we share some wonderful summer holiday photos from locals (Holidaze, page 14), most of whom spent the majority of the school holiday enjoying the Overberg. And for a refreshing glimpse of how other people see our village and a reminder of why we love it here, a Cape Town blogger, Georgia East shares her impressions of our village in words and photographs. (The one fortunate one, page 18) Stanford – you gotta love it!

Write to us

Please send your letters to philippa.murray@gmail.com. Try to keep letters as short as possible (100 words or less) and supply your name and address. Anonymous letters will not be published. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend, abridge or reject any letter.

Volunteers versus Observers

Stanford gets streetwise

In reply to last month’s letter entitled Village Life, An Observer wrote, 'Avoid any committee as it will only create enemies and bring forward your expiry date in the village.' Well, I say, 'Avoid any committee and you will bring about the demise of the village!' At the very heart of Stanford are the volunteers who serve on our various committees. Imagine • No Star Literacy Programme – no one to help struggling pupils at Die Bron master the art of reading. • No Rotary Club – no one to care for the very needy in our community. • No Conservation Trust – no one to manage the environment of our lovely village. • No Wine & Wisdom – no funds to keep the Wandelpad pristine for you. • No Animal Welfare – no one to care for the underprivileged pets in our area. • No Stanford Tourism – no one to promote our village. • No Heritage Committee – no one to care for our built environment. There could be Tuscan villas popping up all over. There are many more organizations manned by volunteers who all make a difference one way or another. If you sit back and let the same people lead the way, this village will stagnate once more. So get involved; you might meet delightful, hardworking people and forge many friendships. Annie Ranger (Volunteer)

Sunday 14 December will be remembered by many as a great day for Stanford, and the singular reason for this was the Stanford Street Festival - just reward for some original thought and being bold enough to just do it! To see Queen Victoria Street so well populated by enthusiastic visitors sampling the wares of so many stalls and being tempted to buy an amazing miscellany of gifts was really heartening. My sincere congratulations to John Withers and his committee for arranging and staging a fantastic event; it surely must have surpassed even their expectations. I'm sure other Stanfordians (as well as all our visitors) would like to believe that this can become an annual Street Festival. Perhaps 16 December could be earmarked as the annual date for this? Take a bow, Stanford Tourism; you guys certainly ended 2014 on a high! Bob Broom

It's a minefield out there

STANFORD SNIPPETS

Last month’s Stanford River Talk carried a request by the Wandelpad Team that dog-owners pick up the landmines left by their canine friends. The request seems to have fallen on deaf ears. The river bank between Quick Street and King Street is dotted with the stuff, as is the rest of the Wandelpad – making the areas unsightly, unhygienic and uninviting. Visitors to the village over the December holidays commented negatively and as a walker, kayaker and swimmer I am becoming increasingly angry as my enjoyment of these activities is marred by these blots on our beautiful landscape. Come on, dog owners! It is a simple thing to carry some light plastic packets with you when walking your dog. There are enough dustbins around into which to deposit the packets. There is no excuse for selfish behaviour and disrespect for the rights of others to a clean and attractive environment. If self-policing does not help perhaps the law-enforcement could start issuing spot fines for such transgressions? Vivienne von der Heyden Newcomer to Stanford from Fish Hoek where dog-owners cringe if picked out by fellow- beach goers for such transgressions!

Su Wolf spends as much time in Stanford as possible while she waits for her house to be built. These photos were taken on her rambling strolls around the village and they capture the quiet peacefulness that many forget. We look forward to welcoming Su and her family as soon as they move in. For full colour versions of these photographs, please see our Facebook page.

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news and updates

Have a heart Vaccination fundraiser Have a heart for animals this Valentine’s Day and support Stanford Animal Welfare’s vaccination campaign! SAWS strives to vaccinate as many pets as possible from the less affluent part of our community. Many of their owners would not normally have their animals vaccinated through lack of knowledge or funds. Through vaccination we limit the occurrence of infectious diseases such as Parvovirus (cat flu) and Distemper in our entire community. Although no professional fees are charged to perform vaccinations, we still have to buy the vaccinations. Owners of pets are asked for a small donation but the balance is covered by SAWS. By purchasing a R40 'little heart' from Stanford Veterinary Clinic you can help us vaccinate even more pets. Stanford Veterinary Clinic and SAWS

Tourism Talk

Best foot forward: Stanford enjoyed a bumper season It was a bumper season this December! Restaurants, coffee shops and retail owners all reported that this was their best season ever. Accommodation was filled to capacity and locals agreed, 'We’ve never seen so many cars in the village!' It’s all thanks to marketing – not only by the Tourism Bureau, but by every product owner. Marketing is a group effort. We all work very hard to get the Stanford brand out there and now we see the fruits of our labours. While a booking might come through your own website or well-known booking search engines, it is the awareness of Stanford as a desired destination that makes the visitor type 'Stanford' into the search bar in the first place. So a huge thank you to everyone who marketed Stanford via their posts on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Instagram, newsletters, Youtube and their websites. Thank you also to the bloggers, magazine writers and all those restaurants who not only market their own restaurant, but put in a good word for Stanford too. Our online team at Stanford Tourism, Smart Octopus, is doing a wonderful job, and so is our partner Xplorio. Last but not least, thank you to everyone for the wordof-mouth advertising. Tourism Committee

STANFORD PROPERTY SALES Eleven properties in Stanford were issued with sales certificates in December and January. These figures include name transfers. STANFORD RIVER TALK 4

CPF NEWS DETECTIVE UPDATE: 4TH QUARTER 2014 December 2014 was much quieter than the two previous years. So reports our local police, adding that this can be attributed to better visible policing by the shifts. Credit must also go to Warrant Officers Booysen and Blayi for putting in the extra mile while serving as Acting Station Commanders during December while Captain Africa recovered from neck surgery. The operation was a success and the Captain is now well and ready for action. However, the number of cases of drug-related crimes during this same period remain Stanford’s biggest worry. The CPF needs everyone to work together in resolving crime and drug problems. As a starting point, members of the public must either lay a charge regarding a criminal incident, or report suspicious activities or characters to the police, no matter how trivial it may seem. If feedback is not given timeously, then a letter of complaint with all the relevant details can be emailed to Willem Maclean willem@omail.co.za, Kevin Husk kevinhusk@hermanus.co.za or Stuart Anderson stuartandersonza@gmail.com Charge Number of cases Possession of dagga, tik and mandrax 56 Drunken driving 2 Common Assault 3 Possession of stolen property 2 Crimen injuria 1 BRIGADIER DYANTYI The CPF welcomes our new Acting Cluster Commander, Brigadier Dyantyi, to the Stanford/ Hermanus/ Gansbaai area. As the Western Cape Provincial Head of visible policing, he will play a vital role in assisting and supporting the police in their endeavours. Over the past month the CPF has held two frank meetings with the Brigadier where community issues and concerns were expressed. He came across as an experienced, energetic senior police officer willing to assist with all aspects of efficient policing. STANFORD NORTH NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Chris Moll has been tasked with setting up a network of concerned permanent residents living in Stanford North and extending to the outlying areas on the farms and along the river. The idea is not to have foot patrols, but an alert system with efficient communication, reporting immediately to the police. Interested residents are welcome to give Chris a call on 082 578 1828. Stuart Anderson

Bags of Love – Thank You To all our kind and generous supporters

Without your kindness and generosity this annual campaign would not be possible, so thank you all most humbly and sincerely for your support. Personal letters of thanks have been sent out, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who donated anonymously. Every family on our lists is in genuine need of help and each one received a bag containing basic food items. The lists of recipient names are drawn up by various Churches and Community/Social Workers in Stanford. We were very fortunate this year to have received donations of cookies, sweets, snacks, handmade soaps and kids' party packs. These small items make a big difference at Christmas time to both children and adults who don't normally receive treats. Many of the families on our lists consist of grandmothers caring for their orphaned grandchildren, their only source of income being their old-age pensions. I would also like to thank both the Stanford General Dealer and the Stanford Spar for their support in stocking and packing the bags as they were ordered. Kobin, Glenn and Ian; you are absolute stars. Thank you! Lana Coates, Project Co-Ordinator

news and updates

GREEN TEAM TREATS

Keeping it green: Mr Pawuli and his happy ‘Green Team’ after receiving year-end gift vouchers from Stanford Conservation Trust for all their hard work on the Wandelpad.

The Team is sponsored by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, and has played an invaluable role in upgrading and maintaining the Wandelpad for the benefit of all Stanfordians. Hats off to our Green Team! SCT volunteers, Basil Whittaker, Anka Esterhuizen, Peter Hochfelden, Ian Wilson and Tony Coates.

STANFORD RATEPAYERS' ASSOCIATION A SPECIAL INVITATION Mary took her little lamb to an Annual General Meeting where all she heard was many-a-word 'twas not the lamb a-bleating!

Blazing good Burns Supper 'Warm, Reekin, Rich' is how Robert Burns described the Scottish national dish in his poem Address to the Haggis as recited by Andrew Herriot at the recent Annual Burns Supper, 24 January at the Tasting Room. The Dinner is served: Burns guests getting celebration was attended into the spirit by 104 Friends of Scotland who enjoyed a scrumptious meal of Scottish fare presided over by Chef Bridget. The attendees hailed from many countries – Scotland, England, Ireland, USA, Belgium, South Africa (Hermanus, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pearly Beach, Baardskeerdersbos) and, most importantly, from Stanford. All were royally entertained by exemplary speakers, humourists, narrators and singers – all immortalising the Scottish bard. This tradition is internationally replicated every year by millions of devotees across the world. This event takes place on or near the Bard’s birthday, 25 January. Rabbie, a self-educated genius, was born in 1759 in the small town of Alloway in Ayrshire, Scotland and since 1802 followers of the Bard have held formal celebratory evenings every year to remember his literary achievements. The evening’s programme followed a familiar format with piping music, dance, narrations, toasts and songs. It ended with rousing versions of the Scottish National Anthem, Flower of Scotland, and Burns’ 'Auld Lang Syne' washed down with Athol Brose, a wee dram and Shortbread. 'But pleasures are like poppies spread, 'You seize the flower, it's bloom is shed.' – Tam O’ Shanter Andrew Herriot

You are cordially invited/beseeched/compelled/inspired/obliged/ implored to attend the Stanford Ratepayers' Association Annual General Meeting, to be held at 17:30 on Thursday 19 February at the Stanford Municipality boardroom, where bleating will be forbidden! This is your opportunity to make your voice heard on a range of common interest issues, and to listen to the opinions of others. We look forward to seeing you there. Bob Broom

Pet shop boys fur-PET-sake is a small, newly opened store in Victoria Street, next to Graze restaurant. We cater for dogs, cats, birds and even horses! Is your dog itching and Little shop of hairies: Products for your scratching? We believe pets. good nutrition is key in solving any skin condition from the inside out. Therefore, we offer high quality pet nutrition such as Vondi's, Acana and Orijen. We also sell natural, homeopathic remedies and supplements. Do you like to spoil your beloved pet? We offer all natural chew treats as well as cookies! We also stock the very popular Rogz products. With our products you will find peace of mind and enjoy a content, happy pet! All pet owners and pets welcome! You keep them happy; we'll keep them healthy! Madelein Rheeder STANFORD RIVER TALK 5

school talk OKKIE SMUTS

Grade Pre-R and R English: (Back from left) Charlotte Withers, Milla Henckert, Luzuko Gobeni (Middle from left): Rachel Hague, Joshua Muller, Mrs Taberham, Sebastian De Kock, Imange Mthenjana. (Front from left) Ezrah Mattee, Samantha Horn, Hellen Hearing, Jasper Goss, Alex Kastner, Mivuyo Apolisi and Zylan Montagu.

Grade Pre-R and R Afrikaans: (Back from left) Chaldine Dickson, Janco Swart (Middle from left) Ruwayne Diedericks, Gida Roodt, Mrs Swanepoel, Anuck Barkhuizen, Cecilia De Villiers (Front from left) El-Zyne Swarts, Jayden Dunsdon and Thomas Hickman.

Play group: (Back from left) Shakira Benjamin, Minenthle Madlebe, Mrs Gobeni, Akeelah Pieters (Front from left) Onalo Apolisi, Adam Van Graan and Lucas De Kock.

Grade 1E (Front from left): Thimna Mancoba, Ayola Sidelo, Ronja Conrad, Mrs Beets, Amila Tshiseka, Nathi Mayile, Courtney Anderson, Taylor Anderson (Back from left): Phelokazi Tsobo, Vuyolwethu Mgqasta, Kuhle Zongwana, Rachel Horn, Emma Privett, Kirsty Mutiziwa, Emily Stafford, Iyanda Zimba and Abigail Phiri.

Grade 1A (Front from left): RachĂŠ Lucas, Mellisa Mhlontlo, Sinead Zaal, Samantha Pasman Junior Dickson, Jaydine Appel, Reinier Tolken (Back from left): Tisean Lehman, Zoey-Ree Buys, Mrs van der Vyver, Ruben Jacobs and Walden Williams.

FUNIMFUNDO Grade R: (Back from left) Alulutho Mpisekhaya, Phiwohuhle Petse, Mxolisi Sandla, Avuyile Foji. (Front from left) Sipho Gxokhwe, Ovuyayo Nyewe, Sive Valiko, Buhle Ntonto, Elam Mbadu, Indiphile Ntongontongo and Kwakhanya Plestin.

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school talk

DIE BRON GANSBAAI ACADEMIA

Gr.R: (Back from left) Mev. K.H. Dreyer, Willon Matthysi (Front from left) Brontè Hansen, Kaylin Pieters, Eunicia Bernadus, Marvinique May and Lourin Louw.

Academia’s matric class of 2014 did very well in the final examinations and achieved a pass rate of 89.6%, which is slightly lower than the record of the 2013 class. The decline is however in line with the national results. The school is especially proud of Andisiwe Wulane with 5 A symbols, and Monique Grebe with 4. Andisiwe, originally from the Eastern Cape and living with her mother and father in Masikhane missed her overall A-pass by a fraction of a percentage which she hopes a remark may resolve. She excelled in Business Studies where she achieved 96 percent. Prof Jonathan Jansen, the vice-rector of the University Of The Free State, offered them full study bursaries. Monique already had a bursary and declined the offer, but Andisiwe grabbed the opportunity and is going to study BCom (Accounting) at the university. She follows in the footsteps of the 2013 top student, Bianca De Koning, who made full use of a similar opportunity to become one of the top students at the university and achieved 7 distinctions in her first year. The learner numbers have not been finalised yet, but it seems that we are looking at a total of 750 learners of which 180 hail from Stanford. There are three buses running on a daily basis to transport these learners to and from the school. The 230 new Grade 8s were welcomed to the school in an induction programme to familiarise them with the school rules. On a fun-filled final afternoon of team building each class participated in a concert for their parents, before they pledged by candlelight to be good citizens of the school. The school management team and governing body are planning to hold a meeting with parents in Stanford. Parents must please be on the lookout for notification of this important meeting. The tri-annual governing body election also takes place this year in March and parents must already identify suitable candidates in their area to ensure strong governance for the school in the future. Ernst Nieuwoudt Chairman, School Governing Body

Gr.R: (Back from left) Rylee Ali, Mej. C.O.C. Lucas, Eviwe Mkiva, Reesha Barends, Taylor Bottom, Lee-drè Swartland (Front from left) Gabby Newham, Luphakamo Valashiya, Marcelino Kapot and Razeida Moses.

5 distinctions: Andisiwe Wulane and the principal, Mr Tommy Wilson. ONWARDS AND UPWARDS Faeza Abrahams completed her matric at Gansbaai Academia in 2014 with a matric exemption pass. Her family is immensely proud of her as she has enrolled at the University of the Western Cape to study a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.

Dear Homeschoolers and Hermanus schoolers, Grade 1: (Back from left) Mev. M.H.J. de Villiers, Julian Dickson (Front from left) Logan Lucas, Chanel Prins, Jaydene Swart, Macchiano Johnson, Asa Vitheka, Shaffik Williams and Nevan Tobias.

please send us news and photos of your achievements as we would like to reflect the school news of our whole village. Please email philippa.murray@gmail.com

Cosy cattery and kennel in lovely country atmosphere. Qualified dog trainer. Well balanced diets, love and care.

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WELCOME

IN MEMORIAM Theo Nadel 8 December 1937 – 28 January

Family ties: Salmah, Kashif, Imaan and Natasha Sydow enjoying the Stanford Street Market.

Kashif and I have always had a love and appreciation for Stanford, having come here many years ago before getting married and having kids. Who would have thought that we would settle here and have our kids attend the local school 13 years later? In September 2013, we made the decision to leave Cape Town. We had had enough of the rat race and wanted to give ourselves and our kids a better quality of life. Fortunately, we own a graphic design studio, 7 Magnets, and our line of work allowed us the freedom to up and leave. We found accommodation, our kids were accepted at Okkie Smuts, and we moved to Kleinbaai two months later. A year later we moved to Stanford. It's been two months now and we have loved every minute. Natasha Sydow

It's a boy

Our son Alan John Williams was born 12 January 2015. Naomi and Andrew Williams

In fond memory of Brian Mahlangu 22 April 1989 29 November 2014

MAUREEN DIEDERICKS

U naam: Maureen Diedericks Hoe lank woon jy en jou gesin in Stanford? Ek is gebore in Stanford en het my hele lewe hier gewoon. Wanneer het jy by die Agri begin werk? 22 Junie 1987 Was jou werk dieselfde al die jare? Ek het begin as 'n skoonmaker, en later as 'n ontvangsklerk gewerk. Toe die personeel min geraak het is ek winkel toe. Na 'n knieoperasie word ek toonbankklerk. Wat is jou beste herinnering by die Agri? Ons eerste opedag toe ons Werner se vark probeer vang het. Personeel en kliente het gehelp maar die vark was te slim vir ons. Wat gaan jy doen nou dat jy afgetree het? Ek gaan rustig by die huis wees en gemeenskap werk doen. Februarie is Valentyns maand en ons het 'n paar mense dieselfde vraag gevra: Hoe het jy en jou man ontmoet? Die niks romanties nie. Hulle was ons bure. STANFORD RIVER TALK 8

Team River Talk bids farewell to Theo who featured in our Valentine edition last year. Rest easily, Theo. Our thoughts are with Huipie and her family.

Brian was always smiling, he was friendly and a well liked, hardworking employee who will be missed by all at Klein River Cheese. Our condolences go to his family.

The villagers

You may have noticed a familiar face missing from the till at the Overberg Agri. Maureen worked at the Agri for 27 years and is wellknown and liked in the village. She has finally retired and hopes to spend more time doing community work.

Stanford lost one of its most loyal fans on 28 January 2015. A wife lost a husband who was always a partner in everything they did, and who ALWAYS showed up. Two daughters and a son-in-law lost a father who led by example and was always there; whether it was with a supportive word, deed or a prayer. And a grandchild lost her co-conspirator in capturing fairies and gnomes in the garden he loved so much. He leaves behind so many people whose lives he has touched as a teacher, mentor, friend, father, husband and grandfather. Not with sadness, but with fond memories and the treasure of the wisdom he has imparted on us, we bid him farewell. Sorica Nadel

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☺☺☺☺ New faces ☺☺☺☺

We love being able to welcome new friends and families to Stanford in the Stanford River Talk. If you are new in the village, please let us know. Contact the editor, 082 667 0619, philippa.murray@gmail.com

Will you be my Valentine? Valentine's Day is many things to different people. It is a thrilling day of uncertainty for teenagers, a day of anticipation for those hoping to tie the knot, and a racket of distasteful commercialism for others. We wade around buckets of single roses, cute coffee cups and musical cards in the shops finally settling on making a homemade note at home and cooking a favourite dinner. Some local couples seem to have found the magic recipe which glues the right people together after the whirlwind romance fades and the single roses have died. We asked them how they met.

ABRIE EN MARLIZE HICKMAN Ons paaie het begin kruis deur die sosiale media... na ons eerste afspraak was daar geen omdraaikans. Ons was verlief en verlore! Na 6 jaar getroud, vul ons nog elke dag mekaar se lewens en toekomsdrome aan. Soos ons met ons ontmoeting, – verlief, verloof, getroud en swanger in een jaar, pak ons die lewe met passie en geloof aan.

GEORGE AND ELIZABETH PHILI We met in B.T. Malawi and I was so happy to have a boyfriend that day. It is now ten years later and we are still together. Happy Valentine's Day to my husband George, my daughter, Abigirl, and my son, Boniface.

ERNIE BLOMMAERT EN CHANETTE PAUL My vriendin se oproep volg op skouerhuilgesprek waarby 'n hele paar glase wyn betrokke was. 'Nee, ek pleeg nie blind dates nie,' keer ek. 'Net dronkverdriet gehad. Mans kompliseer net mens se lewe.' 'Middagete by Harbour Rock. Die vier van ons. En basta. Ernie is ordentlik. Iemand saam met wie jy af en toe 'n bier kan drink of na 'n show kan gaan. Dis al. As julle kliek.' Met die instapslag weet ek al ons sal nie kliek nie. Snor. Stokkieshare. Stellenbosch op sy voorkop geskryf. Dit was 5 Desember 2003. Elf jaar later... Nou-ja.

JAN VAN TONDER

GERRIE AND RETHA FOURIE We met at a wine promotion at the Lanzerac Hotel in Stellenbosch during February 1989 where Gerry was performing, and I was involved in the wine industry – this was actually only two days after Valentine’s Day! We chatted and became friends and throughout the rest of that year our friendship blossomed and ten months later, we got married in Stellenbosch on 16 December. 25 Years later we are very fortunate to have retired in Stanford and would like to express our sincere thanks to everybody who made us feel so welcome and part of this lovely village!

JOHN AND SHIRLEY WITHERS LOUIS AND WANYA VAN DER WALT Our story started back in 1997. We met at a Christian outreach camp in Badplaas. Louis was in fourth year and I was in first year at varsity in Pretoria. Louis was terribly shy and I had a great time teasing him. He invited me to his final year dinner. Alas he could not dance and I decided that just wouldn't do in the long term. Then we bumped in to each other five years later (Louis in the meantime had taken ballroom lessons) and started dating after a whirlwind week of romance. Then we started commuting between Bloemfontein, where I worked for the SANDF, and Pretoria, where Louis had his base of operations (and his mother’s home cooked meals). A year later we got married. Louis is the love of my life, my best friend, the best dad to our three children; his wisdom and soft spoken nature captured my heart. He is my Men’s Health Model and just an overall honey! The best thing is that I know that he loves me just the way I am and in his own words, 'I will always be two steps away - close enough if you need me but far enough to give you room to be yourself.'

Shirley’s version: I was working as a copywriter at an advertising agency. We had just been awarded the Shell account and John was the advertising manager. My office was adjacent to reception and on one particular Spring day in 1980, I heard this magnificent voice saying, 'Good morning Libby, is el Fatso in?' (He was referring to the MD Daryl Fine, not me.) I just had to get up from my desk to see who the voice belonged to, and there he was. He later came into my office and said. 'I believe you are the copywriter on the account; I hope you are good.' I knew that he had worked with some of the best copywriters in London and I was so nervous about the first copy I wrote for him that I spent the entire weekend writing and rewriting it. When it was presented to him he read it and approved it without changes. Then he invited me out for lunch. John’s version: She came out of her office and I thought, 'What a body!' And then I invited her out for lunch. STANFORD RIVER TALK 9

FINANCE MATTERS

SOAPBOX

What's that got to do with the price of oil? The Old Boar puzzles over the lower price of fuel

Once again I am reminded of the old Chinese curse – ‘May you live in interesting times’. The big question is: what is going on with the oil price? The country and consumers benefit enormously from the lower oil price. Theoretically the country’s balance of payments should improve and consumers will have more disposable income. As we all know, there is many a slip between glass and lip and what will actually transpire remains to be seen. Shares in Sasol have taken an almighty crack as the selling price of almost all their products is linked directly to the oil price. Some retailers have had good gains but it remains to be seen if their expectations will be met. On the other side of the coin one must try (and I emphasise the word ‘try’) to figure out what is behind the price move. The world economy has slowed lessening the demand for oil. Saudi Arabia has enough oil to last for years and years, their production costs are low and while oil at over $100/bbl is a boon, they are still making a great profit at $40 so they can ‘afford’ to flood the market and force the price down. Many commentators think that their rationale is to take out the shale oil producers in the US who have a break-even cost in the region of $70 – $80. Along with the shale producers a few big banks (who are financing the shale producers) would also be forced to shut down. Analysis of the source of shale producers’ funding shows that while banks are providing some finance, a far greater source are junk bonds and the like. I think it is more likely that the Saudis and the US are acting in concert to destabilise Russia (apparently their break even cost is $105), and to force Iran to the negotiation table whilst forcing Venezuela and other high cost producers out of business. As a by-product it could also reduce the funding available to Saudi to send to ISIS and similar organisations. Closer to home Eskom continues with its self-inflicted pain, the government has once again bailed out our incompetent airline (only R6.5bn, making the total over R14bn) and who knows what is going on behind the scenes with SARS and the Hawks? Guptagate and many of the other crises appear to be joining Nkandla. Reviewing the situation in our country today I have to agree with the lines written by Christopher Hope way back in the 70s: 'And the tears will stream from the stony eyes Of Oom Paul in Pretoria square... Said Kobus le Grange Marais.'

In your dreams Martin Ranger conjures some stories that might make the headlines in 2015

☞Power crisis over – Eskom finds new power station! In a surprise revelation Eskom has announced the discovery of a forgotten power station in the Northern Cape. 'It’s like a miracle,' dazzled Eskom’s Sparks Edison. The 600mw unit had been listed as ‘decommissioned’ but in reality has been operating at 10% capacity for years. The station, which burns mealie husks, has been supplying power to the neighbouring villages of Droogwater and Manhattenville. 'Just as soon as we recover the connecting cables from the neighbourhood’s fences and washing lines we’ll be back on the network,' a clearly shocked Edison promised. The effect of this discovery on national capacity expansion plans is unclear; however, canny local farmers are busy planting extra fields of corn. ☞Municipality launches cheap bus service This year commuters will enjoy the comfort and convenience offered by the municipality’s new ‘My Suburb’ bus service. Operating between Kleinmond and Pearly Beach the service will cost R5 per section. Spokesman for the taxi operators, Gaatjie Vettel, confirms 100% support from his members. 'Consumers deserve a choice,' he agreed. 'The bus will have air-conditioning, wi-fi and spacious seating; alternatively our taxis are both faster and play the latest dance music.' Speaking at Vettel’s memorial service the municipality’s transport manager said that Gaatjie was ‘clearly a man ahead of his time’.

☞SAA makes billions in profits Thanks to a strategy of leasing its fleet to individual European-based zillionaire soccer stars the ailing airline is now back in the black. Freed from having to worry about boring things like schedules, catering and missing passengers, SAA simply has to make a single investment customising planes to the stars’ specifications and the money just flows in. At a recent press conference the airline’s acting spokesman was asked about reactions from its regular customers. 'Nothing so far,' he joyfully confirmed.

PA U L S L A B B E R T B Art ET Scien, EAPSA, APHP, IAIA

082 740 8046 028 312 1734 phs@orcawireless.co.za www.phsconsulting.co.za ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE, LAND-USE

Corporate Social Investment Projects www.africanvisionfoundation.co.za

ERWIN'S Traditional German Meat Products produced locally Available at Stanford Saturday Morning Market and at Spar. Cell 082 441 5533 • www.erwins.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 10

Holiday Home Specialists

Are you the proud owner of a piece of heaven in our village? Do you need someone reliable to take care of your property? Contact us to discuss your house management. We can take care of all aspects of your home while you are away. We will market and let your property for weekends and holidays, or prepare it for your arrival. Contact Ansie : 082 3200 982 or 028 341 0965 ansierei@gmail.com / enquiries@stanfordcountrycottages.co.za www.stanfordcountrycottages.co.za

Our gallery restaurant is on a working sheep farm and the atmosphere is relaxed. Make yourselves at home, and share one of our delicious cheese platters with friends or choose from the menu. The Sunday harvest table is gaining in popularity so booking is highly recommended. Open Wednesday - Sunday. 8:30 - 17:00 FOR DIRECTIONS AND FURTHER INFO: 084 263 6727 â&#x20AC;˘ 083 409 8126 TURN UP THE ROAD TO MADRES, GO 300m AND YOU WILL SEE THE SIGN ON THE RIGHT.

Book a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy on the banks of the river or on the lawns in our beautiful country setting.

7 km outside Stanford on Route 326 028 341 0693 | www.kleinrivercheese.co.za | info@kleinrivercheese.co.za VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

Marianne 072 111 9321 marianne@stanfordvillage.co.za www.stanfordvillageproperties.co.za

Natalie 082 893 2282 natalie@stanfordvillage.co.za www.stanfordvillageproperties.co.za

E DAT

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R2 100 000 Delightful cottage, sympathetically restored. Large garden filled with mature trees, a duck pond and veggie garden. A separate barn / studio can be converted into guest accommodation. This is a must to view ASAP.

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2015 May the year ahead be filled with an abundance of Love,

R 1 100 000 Starter home or renovators delight on a large fenced plot. Enclosed front patio. 3 bedroom home with open plan lounge and built in fireplace. Single garage with laundry room at the back.

Happiness and Good Health. We are rested and ready for the fun, excitement and challenges that a new year brings and look forward to being of assistance. Whether you are buying or selling, please pop in for a chat and a cup of coffee. We would love to see you.

R 1 300 000 A light and colourful cottage. A perfect starter home, 2 bedrooms & shared bathroom. Open planned living area. Large fenced garden with mature trees. Single garage with seperate laundry and storage room.

Marianne, Natalie and Amy

R1 400 000 2 bedroom cottage set in a security complex in the village. Open plan kitchen / lounge. Single garage leading into the cottage. Perfect investment or retirement opportunity.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 11

frog news

vet talk By veterinarian, Dr Olga Koorts

Leap day for frogs

SHEDDING PETS Is your furry friend leaving nests of hair in your home?

It is normal for pets to shed hair – sometimes even lots of it! Some breeds, like German Shepherds, shed all year round while others, like poodles, are shed resistant, shedding less and only at certain times. Weather and seasons play a big role in the amount of shedding that occurs but the overall health of an animal is one of the biggest factors that influence how much hair actually falls out. You cannot stop shedding all together but a healthy, well-groomed pet will certainly lose less hair. A pet that is shedding more than usual for its breed might have underlying undiagnosed health issues. One of the best ways to reduce excessive shedding is by feeding a healthy, well-balanced diet. Better quality foods cost more but contain superior nutrients like good quality protein rather than empty 'fillers' such as maize. They are also more likely to contain Omega 3 fatty acids which will help calm inflamed skin, decrease dandruff and improve overall coat texture. Brush your furry friend regularly to remove excess and loose fur and to redistribute skin oils. Make sure to use the correct brush for their type of coat. Control parasites like fleas which cause itching as constant scratching will increase the amount of hair falling out and will damage the skin. If, despite taking all precautions, your pet’s fur still keeps falling out excessively, it is time to schedule a visit to your vet as Fluffy might be suffering from conditions such as skin allergies, infections or parasites. Animals with bald spots, broken skin or open sores warrant immediate attention as these might be symptoms of more serious problems.

Star Struck Jupiter at Opposition (6 February) This will be the best day of the year to view Jupiter as it makes its closest approach to Earth and will be fully reflecting light from the sun. A good pair of binoculars or a telescope will allow you to see Jupiter’s four largest moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.

RAINFALL STATISTICS SUPPLIED BY Jake Uys

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

ave

23.4

32.7

Jan

8.5

104

Feb

17.5

March

20.5

28.5

25.14

April

27.6

53.3

41.4

May

66.5

43.5

52.7

June

106.3

91.5

139

July

97.5

103

Aug

125

234

Sept

35.5

25.5

60.5

56.9

Oct

111.5

Nov

212

71.1

Dec

23.5

18.3

Year

632

459

533

708

881.5

629

STANFORD RIVER TALK 12

February is a very important month in the calendar for frogs. 2 February is World Wetland Day and is dedicated to the protection of wetlands. 28 February is the third National Awareness Day for the protection of South African Frogs and is called Leap Day for Frogs www.leapdayforfrogs.org.za Wetlands are important because they act as natural sponges against flooding and drought, and they protect our coastlines. They burst with biodiversity and are a vital means of storing carbon; they are the most important habitat type in the world for frogs. Unfortunately wetlands are often regarded as wastelands and 64% of wetlands in the world have disappeared since 1900. Frogs are the most endangered group of animals in the world and are important to the world because they are indicators of the health of our environment and they play an important role in nature. We should celebrate these two days in February by contributing to the protection of our local wetlands and our local frogs. Naas Terblanche

Kids Frog Art Competition Celebrate frogs this month by drawing those you find around Stanford. There will be prizes for art in two different age categories. Age 6-9 and age 10-13. All entries to be dropped at the Stanford Tourism by 28 February or emailed to ilterblanche@gmail.com. Entries should be clearly marked with name, age and phone number. Winners will be announced in the March edition of Stanford River Talk.

plant talk

Everything's coming up roses

Suzanne Francois-Rossouw

Once upon a time I was given a red rose on Valentine’s Day. It was from a waiter at an Indian curry house in Durban. I love roses but why are they so difficult? While full of promise on purchase at a nursery, a year later (no six months even) they are full of aphids and black spot. Maybe it’s Stanford; maybe they don’t enjoy hot winds, drought and inferior soil. However there is a garden just off Queen Vic, down the dip that is filled with the most beautiful roses; someone is getting it right! And if you pass by Riverside Lane in October and November you will see the climbing rose Blossom Magic adorning a fence: truly a sight to behold!

Here are my personal tips on rose care: • Roses need 6 hours of sunshine – more shade, fewer flowers. • Dig a hole 50cm deep and wide. Fill the hole with water and leave it to drain. Add large amount compost to the dug out soil plus 1 handful of bone meal and return mixed soil to hole. • Place rose at correct height, compress the soil, make a basin and water well. • Do not add fertilizer to hole – fertilize one month after planting. • Roses need 10 litres water per week – more in a heat wave. • Roses are often burned by too much fertilizer placed in a heap around main stem. Rather sprinkle 30g Vigorosa over your rose bush every 6 weeks, and water very well. • Only water soil, not foliage to prevent black spot and powdery mildew. • Use Chronos fungicide if you do get the dreaded black spot. • If plants have lost leaves due to black spot, don’t cut back. Pinch off upper new shoots to encourage re-sprouting lower down. • Prune from mid-July. Identify 4 stems to make bowl shape. Cut above a bud at an angle. • For all those irritating bugs, use this super organic garlic and onion spray. Mix 1 whole garlic bulb, 1 onion, 1 tsp cayenne pepper in a blender. Mix in 1 litre water in closed container and steep for 1 hour. Strain and add 1 tsp sunlight dishwashing liquid. Spray your rose well in the early morning or late afternoon. Keep in fridge for up to 5 days, or share with friends. Roses are so rewarding. This Valentine’s Day, why not buy a living plant instead of an old stem. My choice would be Rainbow Nation – a most exciting striped rose in velvet red, yellow, pink and cream. Every bloom is different, just like our population. Happy rose-picking! Annie Ranger

STANFORD DIY - PAINT - PLUMBING IRRIGATION - NURSERY Landscaping & irrigation services.

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Blomme vir Valentynsdag Niks skep 'n romantiese atmosfeer soos 'n pragtige bos blomme uit die tuin nie. Rooi word normaalweg met Valentynsdag geassosieer, maar ek dink verskillende skakerings van pink, pers, blou en wit kan net so romanties wees. Die tyd van die jaar blom daar normaalweg 'n redelike verskeidenheid van blomme soos: angeliere, rose, asters, daisies, krisante, krismisrose, blom salie, dahlias, Jakob Regop, scabiosa, lavenders, lelies en vele meer. Jy kan met net 'n paar soorte 'n eenvoudige maar pragtige bos blomme of tafel rangskikking aanmekaarslaan wat net so mooi (as dit nie mooier is nie!) soos ‘n winkel boeket is. Om 'n tafelrangskikking te maak sal jy die volgende materiale benodig: Drie klein Consol bottels; gekleurde lint, tou of raffia. Rose, krismisrose, krisante, angeliere, blom salie (kies drie soorte blomme van dieselfde kleur). Vat die lint, tou of raffia en draai dit om jou bottels en bind dit stewig vas. Maak die bottels vol met water. Gebruik een soort blom per bottel. Plaas die blomme in die bottels en rangskik op so 'n manier om dit mooi vol te laat lyk. Plaas op jou romantiese tafel vir twee wanneer jy gelukkig is met jou handewerk. Vir 'n maklike bos blomme is die volgende materiale nodig: Rose, angeliere of dahlias as die hoofblom; asters, salie of scabiosa om die bos blomme voller te laat lyk, en pennygum of privet takke om vir loof te gebruik; bruinpapier en 'n mooi lint. Maak gebruik van 'n snoeiskêr en sny jou rose, angeliere of dahlias se stele so 15-20cm. Begin van die blomme bymekaar sit en omring hulle met van die loof. Sit dan van jou asters, scabiosa of blom salie by tot jou ruiker vol is. Draai die ruiker in die bruin papier toe en bind dit met die lint vas. Sit jou bos blomme in diep water om seker te maak dit bly vars.

Valentine Gifts

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plants prior to

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Prices Valid While Stocks Last. • 1 - 28 FEB 2015 • All Prices Include Vat.

stock availability. STANFORD RIVER TALK 13

holidaze Slip 'n slide

Jump for my love

2 Oceans Aquarium

Holiday on ice

STANFORD RIVER TALK 14

Stanfordians know how to make the most of summer time. Local families sent us their photos form the school holdiay.

Supertube

Rock climbing

Botswana

Perfect day in Lesotho

Shine on

Top of the hill - Vogelgat reserve

Puttin' on the Gourits

Tubular fun

Beach volleyball

kitchen talk

Saucy treat

Bryan Robertson shares a versatile dessert recipe

Wakey wakey fine folk! Only a fortnight to go before the magic of St Valentine will be sweeping us off our feet. Valentine's Day is full of surprises, memories, hopes and desires; and it is often these desires that can lead to all sorts of sticky situations. So while we may normally consider how to get out of or avoid them, perhaps we should be looking to actually get ourselves into a sticky situation. Nothing screams Valentine's Day more than chocolate, so let us pause here and get stuck into the finest chocolate sauce ever created that can be used to take ice cream to a new dimension, or perhaps turn us into keen body art specialists. • 5 Tbs butter • 60 g Cocoa • 3 Tbs sugar • 3 Tbs golden syrup • 1 tsp vanilla essence • 50 ml water

Blend all the ingredients thoroughly in a saucepan and heat gently until the cocoa melts. Continue heating until hot enough to serve. Serve with ice cream or steamed puddings. (Variations: 1. Use milk instead of water. 2. Use strong black coffee instead of water and treacle instead of golden syrup). This sauce keeps very well in the fridge and may also be frozen. Please exercise caution when using as a body art medium and beware of possible burns.

wine talk

A new year… new tipple… new adventures Tania Weich mixes her drinks and marvels at the results Since I write this column one wouldn’t be wrong for suspecting that I am particularly fond of wine. And the idea of my chucking different strong stuff down my neck is ludicrous, right? Well…uh… not quite. While I don’t exactly qualify for membership to the One tequila, two tequila, Floor! Society – I suspect that I am a potential candidate to join that clan. As with all good snippets of gossip, my story begins with innocent drinks with a friend, Annie. And I assure you that I was adamant that I had no intention of drinking ‘that stuff’ when my pal produced tipple that was not another bottle of red wine. The first thought that went through my head was ‘This was as dangerous to me as Annie getting her gun!’ This was deadly stuff. This was tequila! Annie is not only tough as a warrior, even without the ubiquitous weapon of her namesake, but evidently a lot smarter than I am too. She poured me a shot and simply invited me to sniff it. That was it! The delicious toffee aroma seduced me into taking just one little sip. Of course, having been a catty-critic I felt compelled to reach for my red wine to cleanse my conscience of having partaken in ‘that stuff’. On my gosh! What followed was absolutely fascinating. For the sake of science and sharing with my fellow wine lovers (and other excuses that I haven’t thought of yet) I was obliged to take a more generous glug of the tot glass and then follow through with a sip of the wine. Somehow the sweetness of the tequila brought out the depth of the unique characteristics of each cultivar. We girlfriends had a go at this experiment with glasses in each hand until we were able to pin-point, without peaking at the label, Pinotage and the other varietals which made up the blend. The taste sensations were a musical masterpiece being played in my mouth. I got lucky despite my haughty misgivings. My wish for you… experience the adventures handed to you this year. Somehow I know the end result can only be a symphony of your own – wine or otherwise.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 15

How to be an earthling

holistic health talk

Tasha Saha reminds us how to tune back into the patterns of nature The author Henry Miller said, 'The world is not to be put in order. The world is order. It is for us to put ourselves in unison with this order.' But nature can be wild, uncontained and unpredictable. It can also be sweetly supportive, offering us sustenance and gentle sunshine. Neither, it seems, can be counted on absolutely, but despite its bipolarity there is an underlying organisation that can be seen in nature the turning of the seasons, the cycles of living and dying, the recurring fractal patterns that we see in nature’s ferns, frosts and river flows, the tides of the moon, and the sun and the sea. Today nature’s order seems ever more distant. We live in temperature controlled environments, have the luxury of year round summer fruits, and our work days, undictated by the setting of the sun, can continue through the day and well into the night. The speed with which current technology enables us to communicate urges us to be constantly available and instantly responsive so that rather than living and working at nature’s pace, as in bygone years, we are moving to faster, more erratic rhythms. Attuning ourselves to nature’s rhythms in the face of modern pressures gives us a better chance for a healthier, happier life. After all, the earth has been a successful, self- regulating system for billions of years, while our new ways are as yet untested.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 16

For those days when you’re feeling adrift, here are five ways to re-align yourself with the rhythms of the natural world. ★ GROW A FOOD GARDEN The process of tending an organic garden from seed to harvest offers so many opportunities for coming back into sync with nature’s own timing. For such a down-to-earth pursuit, gardening necessitates a surrender to inevitable cycles. In these days of factorymade food, growing our own allows a valuable connection to our source of nourishment and the experience of eating freshly picked food, radiant with life energy. ★ GO OUTSIDE It has been proven that contact with green spaces is a requirement for our well being. A term has even been coined for a lack of this (Nature Deficit Disorder) which can result in increased anxiety, depression and ADD in children. The sense of connection that comes from engaging with nature both sustains us and inspires us to be better caretakers of our world. ★ BE BAREFOOT A shoeless stroll not only provides a massage for your feet, but a restorative connection with the earth’s energy, often limited by the artificial materials that come between our toes and the earth. Walking barefoot helps us to neutralise the influence of harmful electromagnetic pollution in our environments and ground ourselves to the earth’s current, rich in the negative ions that help to calm the mind, regulate the body clock, balance hormonal cycles and counteract free radicals. ★ LIVE IN WONDER To be aware of the genius of nature’s design and the astonishing beauty of its diversity is to live in gratitude, a state of grace and harmony. Keep looking with new eyes and wonders will never cease. ★ HOLD IT TO YOUR HEART To be an earthling, we must recognise that the earth’s non-human inhabitants are earthlings too and that we share our lives on a common planet. Affording our neighbours of all species and the land we live on respect, consideration and the freedom to be their natural selves maintains the earth’s balance and ultimately makes us more ourselves.

MOVIE REVIEW

By Karen McKee

BOOK REVIEW

Dollars and White Pipes

Me Before You

Jojo Moyes

(Dir. Donovan Marsh) 2005

It is not often that I review (or watch) South African made movies, but this one was a real gem and it encouraged me to rethink my position on local movies. Reminiscent of 'Trainspotting' (Danny Boyle), it tells the true story of Bernard Baatjies (Clint Brink) who grew up in Hanover Park, and emerges from his utterly impoverished existence to become a very successful entrepreneur. He first starts working in a club in Cape Town and the club manager played by Jonathan Pienaar, mentors him. The club is closed after the owner gets into trouble with the local drug lord, played by a brilliant Kevin Smith (Frank Xavier in 'Isidingo'). Bernard takes over the lease and opens his own club, and is intimidated by the drug lord into dealing drugs from the club in exchange for protection. Initially he resists, but after a series of near fatal experiences he agrees. It all spirals out of control, and one of his friends end up murdered. Bernard eventually manages to escape the Cape and opens up new clubs in Johannesburg, becoming a very successful businessman. The photography is impressive, the soundtrack awesome and the story fast-paced. It deserves high praise, especially because it was local and made on a shoestring budget. PLAYING BY EAR By Andrew Herriot

THE MAHARAJAH OF THE KEYBOARD Oscar Peterson (1925-07) Review of ’Jazz Manifesto’ This 2005 double compact disc has 49 Peterson treasures digitally re-recorded, and reveals the pure magic of one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time. He released over 200 recordings and won eight Grammy Awards. The compilations here embrace many of the legendary songsmiths; Kern, Porter, Gershwin, Harlen and Ellington. Throughout both discs, Oscar plays a strong ’Stride’ style, characteristic of many jazz players. This involves the left hand alternating between octave and arpeggio chords while the right plays swing syncopation with great speed and

dexterity. Disc 1 starts with seven Harold Arlen tracks including ‘Over the Rainbow, ‘Let’s Fall in Love’ and ‘Stormy Weather’. Gershwin is another giant of jazz standards featured in Disc 1; from ’'S Wonderful’ to the fast moving 'Fascinating Rhythm' with its huge lush chords supported by intricate notes trilled across octaves at the rate of 24 beats per bar. I tried the ’Peterson’ speed playing and managed 16 beats per bar when I play ’Autumn Leaves’ (must do better!). The tempo slows for ’Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me’ (Ellington) giving Peterson an opportunity to involve his trio musicians, Ray Brown (Bass) and Herb Ellis (Electric guitar). This leads into Ellington’s famous and elegant ’Sophisticated Lady’. One of my favourite special Standards is ’The Lady is a Tramp’ (Rogers) which modulates and slips back and forth from melody to improvised phrasing and then smoothly eases into Porter’s ’Just One of those Things’. CD 2 races on with high octane versions of Rogers’ ’Lover’, Strayhorn’s ’Take the A Train’ and Hart’s ’Blue Moon’ with drum brushes providing a huge swishing, rhythmic backing. Kern’s classic ’Smoke Gets in Your Eyes’ brings us down to earth with clever linking grace notes that make you believe you are surrounded and engulfed by a dreamlike experience. The closing track in Disc 2 is phenomenally high tempo with Kern’s ’I Got Rhythm’ giving Ray Brown an opportunity to demonstrate his virtuosity on bass and for Oscar to play ’Stride-style’. Billie Holiday appears out of nowhere with ’These Foolish Things’ (Strachey) and, if you listen carefully, you will catch Louis Armstrong. It is tingling stuff making this Double CD a great buy. Enjoy!

Reminiscent of Erich Segal’s ‘Love Story’, this novel evokes real emotion, and certain situations in the story catalyse a good cry. While ultimately becoming more a story of redemption, it also highlights the courage and tenacity required to redirect a life that has been irretrievably changed. Lou Clark is a young working class girl who is appointed as a care assistant to Will Traynor, a 35 year old man who became a quadriplegic after a motorcycle accident. He is bitter and angry, and Lou finds working with him extremely challenging. While Will had an extremely adventurous life, Lou has never really fully experienced life. Will discovers in Lou a surprising outlet for his disenchantment by teaching her how to become more autonomous. Lou realises that in order to get Will to take interest in his life again, he has to become interested in hers first, and she embarks on a series of characterbuilding adventures to experience with him, and in a strange way they create a very memorable affair. The story is expertly paced, and the matter-of-factness of their conversations and thoughts is very enticing. This is a great read for fans of character development, love stories and family drama.

Arty fact Pierre Auguste Renoir was born in France on 24 February 1841. His first job was working in a porcelain factory. Renoir is regarded as one of the leading impressionist artists and he continued to paint, right until his final days when his paintbrush had to be strapped to his hands as they were paralysed from rheumatoid arthritis.

Office space to let in Morton Square Corner of Daneel and Morton Streets - Stanford

• From 1 April 2015 • Comprises upstairs and downstairs approximately 32m2 • R 2750 per month plus R 250 for water and electricity. Contact Peter Wolters for more information 082 449 7496, bookings@stanfordstay.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 17

The one fortunate one Not your blogstandard tourist trap Georgia East is a Cape Town based blogger who stayed in Stanford in the summer holiday. She yearned for somewhere quiet and unpretentious, and found it on Instagram before turning in off the R43. She picks out the quirky, whimsical and classical features of the village.

Did you know:

In honour of Stanford's bird fair which has now been rebranded the Walker Bay Bird Fair, we have gathered some feathery facts and activities to get you in the mood. A barn owl can eat up to 1 000 mice each year and many farmers try to attract barn owls to help control rodent populations in agricultural fields.

The African Fish Eagle mainly lives on fish which it snatches from the water with its large talons. However it is also known to prey on birds up to the size of a young flamingo.

recently had the experience of staying in a village that by rights should belong in the English countryside. Stanford, pastoral jewel of the The Lu in the leiwater: Georgia's Overberg area, holds a type dog. of charm that harkens from a bygone era but without appearing twee. This town is no tourist trap. The rustic prettiness of the place was put there by the slow passing of time, not by a paint effect, and while modern integration is obviously present, it is understated. No food franchises nor department stores blemish the hilly main road. For that matter nor do traffic lights. And Stanford exudes the air of having a taste for the finer things in life. There is a strong emphasis on homegrown, homemade and houseproud. Fruit trees and green figs grow in abundance and two fresh produce markets are held weekly. Perhaps the reason behind the town’s fertility is the water; fresh from a years-old underground spring, it gurgles its way through the town via aqueducts known as the leiwater... ...Stanford is not a town to go out in. The houses are built on overly-generous plots of land and verandas are a prerequisite. Think gin & tonicfuelled garden parties during the length of the hazy summer, shady spots carpeted in pine needles and windfall acorns and a neverending chorus of frog song punctuating the still evenings. Enjoying home-cooked fare with my family in the little courtyard of our Country steeds cottage allowed me to return to a time when food was not eaten on the go, with the cacophony of television as an accompaniment. The best way to see the town is on foot. Follow the Wandelpad that runs past the old cemetery, under the milkwoods and through the reeds down to where the Klein River runs languidly through to the lagoon. We took a boat trip up to where the river forks and the mountains seem close enough to touch. The combination of mountain, sky and wide open spaces allows for breathing room. Life slows down, people say ‘good morning’ often and cheerfully, and the mutual respect that is present between locals is almost palpable. In the weeks leading up to our visit, I discovered the accounts of a few Stanford-based Instagrammers and thus found out about what to do and where to go upon our arrival. @visitstanford, @graze_ cafe and @whiskyandwanderlust all run visually appealing accounts that beautifully portray what its like to live in the Overberg belt. From www.theonefortunateone.com

STANFORD RIVER TALK 18

The African harrier-hawk (gymnogene) is a fairly silent bird, but in the breeding season it gives a long, plaintive sueeeeee-oo call, as well as a high hweep-hweek-hweep near the nest.

Thick-knees (Dikkop) lay their eggs directly onto the ground or stones. The eggs range in color from cream to brown, with various darker markings according to local soil colours. The highly precocious chicks are able to leave the nest almost immediately upon hatching.

BUSINESS HOURS • Monday - Friday: 8:00 - 17:30 • Saturday: 08h00 - 13:00 • Sunday: 10:00 - 12:00 • Public holidays: 9:00 - 13:00 CLINIC HOURS • Monday - Friday: 8:00 - 16:00 • Saturday: 08:00 - 12:00 • Public holidays: 9:00 - 12:00 T E L: 028 384 0637 FA X: 028 384 0455 epharm.gansbaai1@telkomsa.net H O O F W E F 29 - G A N S BA A I.

PROGRAMME BOOKINGS: Booking essential for all reference related items All others based on first come first serve Liz Hochfelden, walkerbaybirdfair@gmail.com 082 766 8319, 028 3410164

26 FEB

25 FEB

www.stanfordbirdclub.co.za •6:45 – full day: Outing to De Mond Nature Reserve via Elim, Voëlvlei & Napier sewage works. Booking essential. Self cater, guided. Meet at Stanford Village Green. Consolidate cars. Costs: Fuel contribution, Green cards or R40 entry into De Mond Nature Reserve, Ref:01 •7:00 – 9:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125, King Street Stanford, Ref:02 •6:30 – 9:30: Marine Dynamics Dyer Island Cruise, R300, subject weather conditions. Meet at ‘The Great White House’ Kleinbaai, Ref:03 •16:00 – 18:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125 King Street Stanford, Ref:04 •Evening: Many specials are being offered by Stanford’s wonderful local restaurants, www.stanfordtourism.co.za •6:45 – Full day, Outing to Rooi Els, Stony Point, Harold Porter Botanical Gardens and Rooisand Nature Reserve. Booking essential. Self cater, Carin Malan. Meet at Stanford Village Green. Consolidate cars, Cost: Fuel contribution, entrance Harold Porter R18. Ref:05 •7:00 – 9:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125, King Street Stanford, Ref:06 •16:00: Opening of the Walker Bay Bird Fair and the APSS, (African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary) in Kleinbaai. Fully booked •16:00 – 18:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125 King Street Stanford, Ref:07 • Evening: Special Celebrity Dinner at Grootbos. Fully booked •6:30 – 9:30: Marine Dynamics Dyer Island Cruise, R300, subject to weather conditions. Meet at ‘The Great White House’ Kleinbaai, Ref:08 •7:00 – 9:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125, King Street Stanford, Ref:09 •10:00:

Official Exhibition centre opening by VIP guest,Tim Appleton MBE, Village Green Marquee

27 FEB

•10:30 – 11:15: Vernon Head, Chairman of BirdLife South Africaon his Ethiopian birding adventure. Village Green Marquee •11:30 – 12:15: Woodpeckers of the World Duncan Butchart. Village Green Marquee •12:30 – 13:15: Sean Privett on the symbiotic relationship between insect, animals & birds within the fynbos environment. Marquee •14:00 – 16:00: Bird photography workshop by the award winning photographer Albert Froneman. R75.00. Municipal Board Room. Ref:10 •14:00 – 14:45: Fynbos Urban Corridors, Bongani Mnisi. Marquee •15:00 – 15:45: Preserving the highly threatened renosterveld and all the species therein, Dr Odette Curtis. Marquee •16:00 – 16:45: Mark Anderson, CEO of BirdLife South Africa on Giving Conservation Wings. Marquee •16:00 – 18:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125 King Street Stanford, Ref:11

28 FEB

•18:00 – 19:30: Stretton’s/Zeiss sponsored photographic competition prize giving & mini auction. Marquee •6:30 – 9:30: Marine Dynamics Dyer Island Cruise, R300, subject to weather conditions. Meet at ‘The Great White House’ Kleinbaai, Ref:12 •7:00 – 8:00: Bird ringing demonstration at Fernkloof Nature Reserve Hermanus, Mike Ford •7:00 – 9:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125, King Street Stanford, Ref:13 •10:00: Exhibition centre opens. Marquee •10:00 – 11:00: Wetland Birding and Conservation in the UK, Tim Appleton. Marquee •11:00 – 11:45: Gough Island, How mice are killing the greatest Seabird Island, Professor Peter Ryan. Marquee •12:00 – 13:00: Around the world in 80 birds, Trevor Hardaker. Marquee •14:00 – 15:45: Mini Raptor ID course, Dr Anton Odendal. Booking essential, free, municipal boardroom. Ref:14 •14:00 – 15:15: Peter Chadwick on Birding and Conservation. Marquee •15:30 – 17:00: Tim Appleton MBE, The British Bird Fair the world’s biggest wildlife event and what it means to avian conservation. Marquee •16:00 – 18:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125 King Street Stanford, Ref:15 •18:00 – 19:30: The Zeiss Bird Brain of the Year Bird Quiz. Hosted by John Maytham, Cape Talk, a pair of Zeiss binoculars up for grabs as first prize and contestants stand a chance to win great 'secret challenge' prizes along the way. R25. Marquee. Ref:16

1 MARCH

•12:30 – 20:00: Stanford village food, wine and crafts market, www.stanfordtourism.co.za • 7:00 – 9:00: Boat cruise along the Klein River, R125, King Street Stanford, Ref:17 •10:30 – 12:00: ‘Eagle Encounters’ Live raptor display. Sponsored by Eagle Eyes. Stanford Community Centre, Bezuidenhout Street. www.eagleyes.co.za, www.eagle-encounters.co.za

STANFORD RIVER TALK 19

classifieds There is an HONESTY BOX at Stanford Tourism where you can pay for your classifieds. Please enclose the amount in an envelope or design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za • cell: 079 523 8453 SMALL ADS: R1 a word • BOXED ADS: R85

SOLAR ENERGYPumps Solar RENEWABLE Geysers, Heat CONSULTANTS SPECIALISING IN: Solar Panels, Solar Geysers, HeatEnergy Pumps, Audits Underfloor PV ( costs Electric ) Save up toheating, 40% onSolar energy & Energy Audits

FOR SALE WOODEN WORKBENCH / POTTING TABLE with bottom shelf 2 x 0.5m, R250. p 076 698 5272. WORKING TABLE with metal legs1.5 x 0.7m R450. p 076 698 5272. INTHUSIASM NATURAL and Organic Make-up orders. p Ruby yokogirls@gmail.com 072 753 8411. SECOND HAND CARPETS including persians, good condition. p 076 698 5272.

SERVICES BABYSITTER Reliable 17-year-old, with village references. p Maya 081 339 0648. CAPTURE YOUR 35MM slides digitally. R1 per slide. p Dirk Troost 084 643 4504. COMPUTER HELP, Are you struggling with technology? Don’t know how to upload photos, use Windows, Facebook etc. Call Ruby and I’ll happily come to your house to help! R50/hour. p 072 753 8411. PEDICURES: Spoil yourself with a pampering professional pedicure and foot massage for R160. p or sms Robyn on 071 382 9033. PET SITTER, Do you need your pets to be fed or walked or loved while you are out of town? Call Sara (12 years old) 072 276 7906. PILATES CLASSES p Jake Uys 079 468 9060. RELIABLE & HONEST DOMESTIC WORKER p Desiree 079 804 2341. TRANSPORT to airport, Cape Town or elsewhere. Luxury SUV up to 3 persons p John 082 950 6007.

JOB OFFERED YOUNG, HARD-WORKING, conscientious person required for small manufacturing/ marketing business in Stanford. Computer literate, good command of English. Driver’s licence and own vehicle preferred.Salary negotiable.p 082 568 2592.

STORAGE

SINGLE GARAGE SIZE. R600 /month. p John 082 950 6007.

AFRICAN HORSE COMPANY

Call Mike 083 316 1872 • 028 341 0028 overberg@setsa.co.za • www.solsquare.com

Local business requires admin and data-capturing assistant Full time or part time. Salary to be discussed at interview. Flexible hours. Must be computer literate, proficient in Microsoft Office and have good telephone etiquette. Please fax CV directly to 086 563 0080.

STANFORD NURSERY – NOW OPEN For a large variety of plants, trees, shrubs, succulents, day-lilies and much much more, please visit Jeannette Hutton at 43 Long Market Street, Stanford or call: 082 370 7780 / 028 3410 400. Flexible hours!

SM VERKOELING Tel: 087 808 2175 Sakkie Myburgh 083 771 0753 Alle huishoudelike herstelwerk

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY R85 MONTH

guided multi-day trails & outrides along the whale coast & through unspoilt nature reserves. +27 (0) 82 667 9232 omstables@telkomsa.net www.africanhorseco.com STANFORD RIVER TALK 20

DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISING IN THE MARCH EDITION OF STANFORD RIVER TALK IS 20 FEBRUARY. PLEASE BOOK YOUR SPACE WITH SANDRA AT 079 523 8453 OR DESIGN@STANFORDRIVERTALK.CO.ZA

local services & facilities ACCOMMODATION A Stanford Country Cottage Beloftebos Cottages Morton Cottage Mosaic Farm Reiersvlei Stanford River Lodge The Country Cottage

082 320 0982 082 391 5331 082 450 3970 028 313 2814 082 213 0512 028 341 0444 083 553 0663

List your business for just R12.50 a month (only R150/year). Email: design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or telephone 079 523 8453 COMPUTERS Compuworld SMB Solutions 028 341 0718 084 705 6719 CONFERENCE CENTRE Mosaic Farm Stanford Hotel

028 313 2814 082 781 1704

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES Maryke Brandt 072 172 9545 Allan Youens 082 903 4432

ESTATE AGENTS Pam Golding 028 341 0708 Stanford Village Properties 082 893 2282 072 111 9321

ALTERATIONS Cait's Sewing Services

083 358 6365

GARDEN SERVICES Earthworm Organics

072 825 7534

ARCHITECTURE Guy Whittle Grant Anderson Maureen Wolters

076 113 2741 072 364 3694 082 450 3970

HAIR Jeanne Retief

072 318 2478

HOUSE MANAGEMENT Stanford Country Cottages Village Laundromat

082 320 0982 072 616 0976

ART Kunsklas

072 822 9970

BICYCLES Bicycle servicing and repair 073 318 5078

weekly timetable

CUPBOARDS Youre Style Cupboards

076 222 2063 082 327 6518

HOME MAINTENANCE Stanford Country Cottages

082 320 0982

INTERIORS Kiwinet Maureen Wolters

028 341 0209 082 450 3970

'MASSAGE & HEALTH Stanford Health Practice

082 481 8285

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Klein River Picnics Platanna River Cruises River Rat Boat Cruises

028 3410 693 073 318 5078 083 310 0952

PETS & PET CARE Stanford Kennels Syringa Country Kennels

028 341 0961 028 341 0961

PLUMBING Mike Moody

083 316 1872

RESTAURANTS 1892 Stanford Spookhuis Barke Restaurant Marianas Springfontein Eats The Vine

028 313 2814 028 341 0116 028 341 0272 028 341 0651 028 341 0662

TELEVISION/DSTV Rod Dacre Television

073 160 4495

WEDDING VENUES Beloftebos Mosaic Farm Stanford Hotel

082 391 5331 028 313 2814 082 781 1704

WINE CELLAR & SALES Springfontein Wine Estate Stanford Hills Estate

028 341 0651 072 371 7546 028 3410 841

Tuesday 17:30 & Friday 08:30, Maitri Yoga, Tasha Saha, 076 968 8608. Monday 11:00, Yoga, 084 685 2641, Viv von der Heyden, 23 Quick Street. Monday 18:00, Running Time Trials 5km, corner Adderley and Longmarket, last Monday of each month at Stanford Hills Estate. Monday & Wednesday, Canoeing, Slipway Church St, John Finch 028 341 0444, Jan Malan 082 452 9877. Tuesday & Thursday 17:00 to 18:00, Tae Bo, Okkie Smuts School Hall, Ronnie 083 655 4521. Tuesday & Thursday 17:30, Cycling, cnr de Bruin & Moore Streets, Sunday 08:00 Caltex Garage David Morrison 082 321 7996, John Finch 082 378 1935. Wednesday, 18:30, Rotary Stanford Club Meeting, The Vine Restaurant. Everyone welcome. Malcolm 084 441 0961. Thursday 18:30 - 21:30 Heal Your Life® Evening Group Sessions 071 382 9033. Friday 08:30, Yoga, 084 685 2641, Viv von der Heyden, 23 Quick Street. Friday, Canoe Time Trials, Slipway Church St, John Finch 028 341 0444, Jan Malan 082 452 9877. Saturday, 09.30am – 12:00, Stanford Saturday Morning Market, Stanford Hotel Veranda, 028 3410 591.

WHERE TO WORSHIP IN STANFORD NG GEMEENTE STANFORD Sondae 9:30 in die kerkgebou. Office, tel 028 3410 966. ST THOMAS ANGLICAN CHURCH Morton St, contact Father Joseph Gabriëls 028 3410588 First Sunday of the month 10:30 Communion (Afr) Second Sunday of the month 10:30 Service (Afr) Third Sunday of the month 08:00 Communion (Eng) Fourth Sunday of the month 10:30 Service (Afr) FULL GOSPEL CHURCH OF GOD cnr Queen Victoria & Bezuidenhout St. 09:30 Sunday service. Pastor Johnny van der Schyff • 028 3410 422. VG KERK (next to De Bron School) 10:00 Sunday morning. Maureen Diedericks 028 3410 691. STANFORD UNITED CHURCH, meets at St Thomas Church, Morton St. Interdenominational. English service at 6pm Sunday. Bible Study, 7pm Tuesday night at 45 Queen Victoria St. Secretary Kerri Brokensha 028 341 0077.

WATER TESTING

STANFORD - RETICULATED DRINKING WATER RESULTS

STANFORD - RIVER WATER RESULTS

The treated sewerage outlet point into the Kleinriver is at the slipway at the end of Du Toit Street. The stream in the middle of town, starting in the dip in De Bruyn Street, is partly fed by the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works which gets complemented only in winter, by the overflow of the two dams in the middle of town. The two sampling points for the river are thus respectively known as under and above the treated sewerage outlet point. Determinant (e. Coli) Under treated Above treated Sewerage Standard Sewerage Outlet poin Outlet point (Bridge R43 0-130/100ml (Jetty next to erf 396) to Hermanus) DEC

137

148

Escherichia coli (E.coli) – bacteria that is a normal inhabitant of the human intestine. Its presence in a sample indicates pollution from human faeces. Total Coliform bacteria – is the name for all the bacteria that produce gas and acid from the fermentation of lactose and its presence in a sample indicates pollution from the intestines of both humans and animals. Heterotrophic Plate Count – is a standard microbiological method used to determine the efficiency of operations to remove or destroy organisms, good and bad, during the treatment process. DETERMINANT

DEC

E. coli STANDARD (0/100ml)

Total Coliform bacteria STANDARD (10/100ml)

Heterotrophic Plate Count STANDARD (5000/100ml) 0 STANFORD RIVER TALK 21

WHAT'S ON

Every Wednesday, Graze Farmers Market, 09:00-12:00, Graze Restaurant. Every Saturday, Saturday Morning Market, 09:30-12:00, Stoep of Stanford Hotel. Every day in February, Art Exhibition at The Stanford Table Local artists exhibit their best pieces of the season. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Tel: 079 468 9060. Martin Mans & Carina Bossenbroek Wednesday, 18 February 19:00 Organ and pan flute concert NG Kerk Stanford, 083 290 6910. Stanford Sunset Market at Village Green Friday, 27 February 18:00 – 20:00. t’s time for the Stanford Sunset Market again! Whether you love the smell of freshly made treats, sipping local wines and beer, tasting deli goodies, browsing for arts and crafts, or just good ole family fun, then this is for you. Walker Bay Bird Fair 27 February – 1 March An exhibition centre, daily river cruises, 2 days of talks by some of South Africa’s top birding and environmental experts, international guest speaker, photographic workshops, bird identification course, a celebrity Bird Quiz, photographic and optic demonstrations, a photographic competition, bird ringing demonstration. For more info visit www.stanfordbirdclub.co.za. See page 19. WHAT’S ON IN HERMANUS First Friday’s Artwalks Heart 2 Art 6 February 17:00 – 21:00, Join us for 'Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk' on Friday 6 February as the thirteen Art Galleries in the centre of Hermanus remain open until 21:00 and celebrate Romanticism in Art. Email: hermanusfirstfridays@whalemail.co.za

email your events to design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za

Private sale

Three magnificent large plots at upper end of Stanford: ✔ Lovely

views ✔ Level ground, fertile soil, gardens grow lush & tropical LE ✔ Near the nature reserve, over the B road LA from a huge open field VA I A Latmosphere, L ✔ In Buiten Street: rural I T S 1 village values D, L O ✔ Tucked 2 Sin a time warp where chickens are free-range and so are the children

2 plots of 976m2 and 1 plot of 1007m2 ranging from R750 000 to R850 000. P H O N E D I T O V I E W: 0 8 2 5 5 8 3 9 1 6 STANFORD RIVER TALK 22

Time for love A Valentine message from the Christian Forum For many the month of February is equated with St. Valentine and labelled the month of love, whereas in reality Valentine had nothing to do with love. In history there were a number of Valentines but it was only in the mid 1300s that Chaucer, the English poet, wrote a love poem with Valentine as a character, beginning that association. Real love comes only from God and is instilled in man by His divine action. One of the most precious verses in the Bible is in John 3:16, 'For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son so that whoever believes in Him may not be lost but have eternal life.' (NCV) God’s love is so much greater than anything we could ever imagine, more than we could ever love anybody else. It is because of this love of God demonstrated through His Son that the cross is also the symbol of love. In the film 'Love Story' a great maxim is laid down: 'Love is never having to say I am sorry.' What a wonderful world it would be if everybody could live in such a way. This also supports what Jesus taught that we should love our neighbour as ourselves. (Joh.13:34, 35) Love is therefore also acceptance of others exactly as they are. Shakespeare said: 'We must love men ere they will seem worthy of love.' God is love! God is the source of love, Christ is the proof of love, Service is the expression of love, and Boldness is the outcome of love. Love never asks 'how much must I do, but rather how much can I do'. Remember God’s love for us is not a love that always exempts us from trials, but rather, a love that sees us through trials. Mat.22:37-40. “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.' ” Come let us live in love and fill our world with true Christian love; experience the change. Rev. Hildie Pansegrouw

In Stanford every year between October and May

happy birthday Di Mohr 1 February

Ian Pieters 1 February

Catch Caccivio 9 February

Tayana Dorland 10 February

Laina Lesicnik 16 February Erwin Lesicnik 24 February

Peter Whitelaw 20 January

Jade Raine Coetzee 8 February

John Withers 12 February

Thaya Bedford 21 February

Marilise van den Berg 4 February

Shaheida Phillips 12 February

Linda Apolosi 22 February

Emma Privet 25 January

Tyrick Williams 29 January

Khanya Dumont 4 February

Mark Jardine 5 February

Regina Jacoby 17 February

Ivan May 17 February

Michelle Hardie 23 February

Gida Roodt 23 February

If your birthday or a special occasion is coming up, please email design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or philippa.murray@gmail.com. We like to keep our photographs fresh and updated so please send us your special picture a month beforehand.

Anton de Kock 23 February

Suzanne-Francoise Rossouw 25 February

Abri Hickman 25 February

Vintage beauty

Exciting Valentines specials now on pedicures, manicures, facials, massages, waxes, make-up Melanie Lourens 27 February

Janelle Damon 28 February

Jacolene 082 357 1245 Victoria Centre Stanford STANFORD RIVER TALK 23