Franschhoek Tatler - March 2014

MARCH 2014 Kusasa’s first Grade 1s

Cape Rouleur returns

Potjiekos kompetisie

New Minister for St George’s

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Bladsy 10

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TripAdvisor 2014 Traveller’s Choice Awards Two Franschhoek properties shine Thousands of travellers have had their say and the folks at TripAdvisor have done the math, now it’s official: Franschhoek’s Akademie Street Boutique Hotel and Guest House is not only the ‘Best Small Hotel’ in the world, but also the ‘Top Luxury Hotel’ in the world!

To make the achievement even more special the hotel also came first in the ‘Best Hotel for Romance’ (Africa) category. If any of Akademie Street’s reviews on the TripAdvisor website sums up the others it’s probably “Not enough superlatives!”

Owners, Arthur and Akademie Street Boutique Hotel and Guest House Katherine McWilliam Smith, do it with so much friendliness and smiles that it had the following to say about their achievement: makes our guests love them.”

“We believe luxury is a concept that has as many In the South African part of the awards Akademie meanings as there are people. We do not believe we Street Boutique Hotel and Guest House, predictably, are particularly luxurious. There are many hotels came out tops in the ‘Small Hotels’ category. Condé in Franschhoek that we think are more luxurious Nast award winner, La Residence, came in seventeenth than we are. Our experience is that people’s views position in the same category. are coloured by their overall experience and this In the South African B&B category another Franschhoek has a halo effect on all other items they grade. property - The Garden House – owned and operated by What we have tried over the years is to instil a Barry and Annette Phillips achieved fourth place. culture of service. Any service asked for, or even not asked for, needs to be satisfied at all costs. We For more visit: www.tripadvisor.com, www.aka.co.za, are blessed as our staff provide this service and yet www.thegardenhouse.co.za

Councillors exchange blows Things got a bit out of hand at the Stellenbosch Town Council meeting of 29 January 2014. DA Councillor Nyaniso Jindela slapped Councillor André van der Walt (Stellenbosch Civic Association) after Van der Walt referred to Jindela as “you stupid” earlier during the meeting. The Speaker, Cyril Jooste, asked Van der Walt to retract his words, which he did.

The incident happened as the two Councillors were helping themselves to a cup of coffee at the council chamber’s coffee table. Jindela says he was provoked by Van der Walt who said to him “You’re a dom (stupid) kaffir.”

Jindela says he reacted in the heat of the moment and slapped Van der Walt.

Van der Walt denies using the words “a dom kaffir.”

After the incident the Speaker asked Councillor Jindela to leave the Council Chamber for the rest of the meeting.

André van der Walt

Nyaniso Jindela

Both Councillors laid charges against each other with the SAPS while the Speaker will start his own investigation which could result in disciplinary steps being taken against the Councillors.

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

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The 2013 Kusasa Project Awards Barry Phillips and Le Quartier Français honoured

Kusasa’s Dave Riordian and Margot Janse

Barry Phillips and Kusasa’s Sintu Quza

During their recent Volunteers & Supporters Meeting, the trustees and staff of The Kusasa Project made two special presentations to longstanding supporters who have over the years made extraordinary contributions to the programs of The Kusasa Project.

Barry Phillips was presented with the Volunteer Hero Award by Sintu Quza in recognition of his unwavering efforts in running the highly successful Chess Club for over five years. Barry’s Kusasa Chessmasters, all disadvantaged children from the informal settlement, have distinguished themselves in regional and national tournaments, with continually improving results.

The Founder’s Award was presented to the staff of Le Quartier Français (LQF) and accepted by Chef Margot Janse on behalf of Susan Huxter and the LQF staff. Partnering with The Kusasa Project in an extension of the highly successful Kusasa

Project Breakfast Club (with over 1 million meals served) Le Quartier Français has been successful in attracting funding and providing extension of our programme to allow over 800 children in 2 primary schools, The Kusasa Project Early Learning Centre and a number of crèches to receive nutritious meals every school day. Susan and her team have provided support on many levels since 2007.

It is with humility and heartfelt appreciation that the trustees and staff honour these incredibly committed individuals who have consistently delivered to the children of the valley. We thank all those who have given of their time, expertise or financial resources over the past 7½ years.

For information on our programs or how you can get involved, visit our offices at Artisan Village 73B Cabrière Street – 021 876 3735 Dave Riordan: Founding Member

Library collects tags for wheelchairs Franschhoek Library is home to a fine collection of books, but this year they’re setting their sights on another type of collection too: Bread tags!

The initiative originates with “The QuadPara Association of South Africa”. For every 247kg of tags, a wheelchair will be donated to a deserving person in the community.

“We will not be able to collect the tags without the

help of the whole community as well as restaurants, hotels and guest houses. We will even collect tags from business premises if needed,” says Senior Librarian Madelein Koegelenberg.

It is expected that it will take most of the year to gather enough tags. Once the goal has been reached the library will consult with social workers to identify who will receive the wheelchair.

MEC Winde visits crèche construction site

March 2014

The Kusasa Project Early Learning Centre’s first Grade 1s The start of 2014 witnessed the continued growth of The Kusasa Project Early Learning Centre (ELC) with a Grade 1 class of neatly uniformed little ones in a new class room in the old chocolate factory. We asked Dave Riordan and Doug Gurr – co-founders of The Kusasa Project about it. Here’s what they said: “It is now globally recognized that early childhood education is perhaps the single most important factor impacting the future success of an individual.

The Kusasa Project has long recognized this and in 2012 was able to open its ELC to serve the Xhosa and Afrikaans speaking children of Groendal and Ematyotyombeni informal settlement. Starting with two pre-school grades in 2012, a Reception class was added in 2013 and this year saw the introduction of a Grade 1 class, bringing the total number of students to 84.

“Recognizing and respecting the history and traditions of South Africa and local communities, The Kusasa Project views it as a basic human right that children have the opportunity of an education, access to recreational activities and basic nutrition as well as the chance to expand their minds. They should be able to do this free from the often changing whims of politics, which can impact the curriculum and operation of schools. All our activity has therefore been guided by a core philosophy: It’s all about the kids.

“With an equal number of Xhosa and Afrikaans children, as well as boys and girls, the ELC operates with trained teachers from both language groups and language-proficient teacher assistants in all classes.

The customs and traditions of the various cultural groups are respected in the cognitive development of the children. Their home language is worked into the curriculum alongside English, the main language of instruction from Grade R, where phonics and emergent literacy are taught. Ongoing assessment addresses difficulties and provides assistance at an early stage. The ELC follows the CAPS curriculum of the WCED under the leadership of Head Teacher, Hanli du Plessis and Deputy Head, Martha Khumalo, with the dedicated staff of teachers and assistants and the global experience of Kusasa’s Director of Education, Jacquie Spiers.

“Reading Eggs, a highly effective on-line reading programme was introduced in partnership with the Click Foundation, has been embraced by teachers and pupils alike. Educational and literacy partnerships have also been formed with organizations such as

MTB Race for a good cause

The Grade 1s arrive for another school day

The Franschhoek Literary Festival, who provide the expertise of a full time librarian, Margie Cunnama, for the primary school libraries and the ELC library. The Nali Bali reading foundation provides reading material in bilingual format which is then collated into books by volunteers. Finally, there’s a long-standing relationship with the team at Le Quartier Français who, with The Isabelo Feeding Scheme, provides nutritious meals throughout the day for the ELC’s children and over 700 other school children in Dalubuhle and Wes Eind schools as well as various crèches.

“The Kusasa ELC has become a nursery for young trainee teachers and currently hosts four young assistants on a teacher training course at Boland College. Two of our more senior teachers are studying for their BEd through UNISA. Adult classes for the parents of the children in the ELC are run by an experienced adult educator and there weekly in-house teacher training sessions are held at the ELC. “While we have been most grateful for the access to the Congregational Church hall, we look forward to occupying classrooms in the Hope Through Action Community Centre, scheduled for completion in early 2015.

“As any observers of last year’s Reception Graduation and Concert would attest, Kusasa’s ELC has managed to create an environment of joy, learning and community where members of all the language groups work together without prejudice of race, language or history in the name of offering a better future through education.”

MEDI HEALTH & SKIN CLINIC Health & Beauty Spa Treatments at Dennehof Farm

MARCH SPECIALS:

On Friday, 14 February, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Alan Winde, visited the Langrug site where the new Inam Educare Centre is being constructed. He was accompanied by members of the Western Cape Provincial Government’s Red Tape Reduction Unit, who assisted the Langrug Childhood Development Trust (LCDT) in obtaining the necessary permissions from Stellenbosch

Municipality. Once completed the facility will house 50 toddlers who currently attend crèche in a tiny dilapidated shack without any services. In the photo above MEC Winde (far right) is with Caroline Vergrieken – founder of the LCDT (near right), Cynthia Mvulo – crèche mistress (centre) and two members of the Red Tape Reduction Unit. www.thelangrugchildren.org

Reese Wright and Kyle Maske at the start of the 12th Annual Lions Porcupine Ridge MTB Race on Sunday 9 February at Bridge House School. The proceeds of this event go to Sight First – an organisation that does free eye tests for spectacles and cataract operations for farm workers and schoolchildren in the community.

Anti Age Facial & Medi Heel Pedi R350 Medi Heel Pedicure & Mini Mani R180 Back Scrub and Massage R150 Make Up & Blow Dry R400 Call out extra R50

CONTACT MARIANKA 071 671 8918

Email: info@stellenboschblinds.co.za • Fax: 021 886 8516

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

Cape Rouleur returns The Cape Rouleur 2014, a cycling event billed as a ‘Professional Event for Amateurs’ returns to Franschhoek from 2-6 March. It is part of the HotChillee Global Event Series which includes The London-Paris and Alpine Challenge.

The Cape Rouleur is a 600km, multi-stage endurance road race that includes close to 5 000m of climbing. According to the organisers the event “is organised to bring enthusiasts as close to the Tour de France experience as possible, with motorbike outriders, ride captains, lead and support vehicles, masseurs, full mechanical and paramedic support.”

The event takes in much of the Cape Winelands’ magnificent scenery including the Franschhoek, Viljoens,

Batting on

Negotiating the Franschhoek Pass during the 2013 event

Houw Hoek and Helshoogte passes and Clarence Drive.

Each day’s ride starts and ends in Franschhoek.

If last year’s event is anything to go by there will again be significant Franschhoek participation in the 2014 event. www.caperouleur.com

Great Googly Charity Auction If you’ve ever attended a performance of Herman Bosman’s “Oom Schalk Lourens’ Stories” then you will have an idea of the fun had by those who attended the Great Googly Charity Auction on Thursday, 16 January.

With David Muller, alias Oom Schalk Lourens, as the auctioneer, serious bidding went hand-in-hand with a very jovial atmosphere.

The items on auction varied from the strange (four boxes of tomatoes and two bags of chicken manure pellets) to the romantic (a week’s accommodation in Paris). The valley was generous in its contributions, liquid and otherwise, with more wines coming from Paarl and Stellenbosch too.

As the charity event was in aid of under-12 cricket in the valley, a number of items of cricket memorabilia went under the hammer. These ranged from a Proteas test shirt signed by Faf du Plessis, to cricket bats – including one signed by the legendary West Indian Gary Sobers. Deservedly participants were prepared to dig deep into their pockets for these items!

Two successful bids came from overseas; one from England and the other from the United States.

In true cricketing style, the gavel used to indicate a successful bid was a rubber hammer normally used to secure the cricket wickets on the pitch at Groot Drakenstein Games Club.

A special word of thanks must go to all the sponsors; especially to Rickety Bridge and its owners who on the day made the wedding reception hall available with wine, canapés and staff. They also provided prizes, notably two magnum bottles of their award winning Paulina’s Reserve 2009, both signed by Proteas test

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FLTR: Bruce and Linda MacAlister, auctioneer ‘Oom Schalck Lourens’ aka David Muller, Fred Murgatroyd and Jake Rennie in good spirits after the Great Googly Charity Auction.

player and T20 captain Faf Du Plessis.

With a few promised donations still outstanding, the sum collected towards the Groot Drakenstein under-12 cricket tournament stands at just under R62 000. Many thanks to the more than fifty participants who helped to make this event the success it was.

At 21h30, after all the items had gone under the hammer, the audience was further entertained, when David Muller enacting Oom Schalk Lourens’ “Orrel Marathon (Organ marathon)” story!

Richard von Hoesslin

In June 2013 the Tatler reported on the building of cricket nets at the Groendal sports grounds. According to Ron Whytock, who managed the project, things are now up and running in spite of a number of hiccups and delays.

On the first day after the nets were completed they were vandalized. Other setbacks have hampered progress – some promises were not kept and property was stolen. There are plusses on the scoreboard though. Two keen people are determined to ‘drive’ the cricket initiative and the donors have been dependable and generous. Donated funds have covered all expenses and a small surplus is kept in the FRANCO fund to cover costs. (No FRANCO funds ear-marked for other projects were used.)

Whytock approached a number of schools and universities for support and says only four responded positively. They are Bridge House, Westerford, Wynberg Boys High and SACS. The support of parents has been invaluable.

It is not only local cricket players who are benefiting from the love of sport and the determination to make it possible for all to play. A soccer initiative started seven years ago, today fields 28 teams. Netball was

Ready for practice!

started outside of the schools last year and is up and running, thanks largely to FRANCO board member John Chomel-Doe. Based on viewer numbers cricket is rated as the fourth most popular sport in the world and in Groendal 30 youngsters are already coming to net practice. Whytock is in touch with Boland Cricket and the CEO, Omar Henry, has been very helpful and encouraging. For those who are unaware of Henry’s history, he was the first black player to play for South Africa. Since then, on average, a black player has reached international level every 11 months, and there is no reason why Franschhoek cannot provide players who will do the same.

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

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March 2014

presented in association with “Les Vignerons de Franschhoek”

Vrede en Lust

LUST Bistro & Bakery’s

This blend is a 5 cultivar white blend made from selected grapes from our Casey’s Ridge Elgin vineyard. It showcases the cultivars’ cooler climate aromas, with focus on how they complement each other.

Citrus, floral and tropical notes on the nose are followed with hints of white pear and fruit salad on the palate. Soft, beautifully balanced mouth-feel. Pairs well with a variety of dishes. Cellar Price: R69  Tel: 021 874 1611  Email: info@vnl.co.za

Serves 4 Ingredients ½ watermelon, 1 mango, pomegranate arils, 1 small red onion, malden salt, 60g soft goat’s milk cheese, 100ml poppy seed salad dressing (see recipe below) Method Cut 4 rectangles from the watermelon (12cm x 6cm x 3cm.

Cut the remaining watermelon in small cubes. Cube the mango. Slice the red onion very thinly.

Poppy seed salad dressing Ingredients 50g fresh raspberries, 30ml raspberry vinegar, 90ml grape seed oil, 1 clove of garlic,½ teaspoon poppy seed

Rickety Bridge

Paulina’s Restaurant at Rickety Bridge’s

White Mischief 2012

The Foundation Stone White 2013 A blend of Chenin blanc, Grenache blanc, Ugni blanc, Rousanne and Viognier. All 5 varietals contribute to this complete and well balanced wine. Elegant with spring blossoms, restrained peach, mango and stone fruit on the nose. Subtle hints of oak spice and a refined fruit expression. A rich and well-structured wine that finishes with elegance and freshness on the palate.

Cellar Price: R85  Tel: 021 876 2129  Email: info@ricketybridge.com

Watermelon Salad with mango, pomegranate, red onion and goat’s milk cheese Method Blend the raspberries, garlic and vinegar to a smooth mixture. Gradually add the grape seed oil while blending.

Stir in the poppy seed and season with salt and pepper To serve Place each watermelon rectangle on a plate and season lightly with Malden salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Garnish with watermelon cubes, mango, pomegranate arils, red onion, goat’s milk cheese and micro herbs. Add a splash of raspberry and poppy seed salad dressing.  Tel: 021 874 1456  Email: lust@vnl.co.za

Seafood Risotto

Ingredients (Risotto) 1lt vegetable stock or fish stock, 10g butter, 40ml olive oil or sunflower oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic finely chopped, 400g risotto, 2 wine glasses Rickety Bridge Sauvignon Blanc, salt & pepper to taste Method Heat the stock. In a separate pan heat the olive oil and butter, add the onion and garlic and fry slowly for 15 mins without colouring over low heat. When softened add the rice and turn up the heat. The rice will now begin to lightly fry, so keep stirring it, until it looks slightly translucent. Add wine and keep stirring. Once the wine has cooked into the rice, add your first ladle of hot stock and a pinch of salt.

Slowly simmer the rice so it does not cook too quickly on the outside. Keep adding stock in small quantities, stirring and ‘massaging’ the starch out of the rice, allowing the stock to

be absorbed before adding more. This will take approx. 15 mins. Remove from the heat when cooked and add butter.

Stir well. Allow the risotto to rest for 2 mins.

Ingredients (Seafood) 200g prawn meat, 200g calamari steaks sliced into strips, 80g tentacles, 200g frozen peas, 200g mussel meat, 100g grated pecorino, 1 onion chopped, 2 cloves garlic chopped 40g butter, 50ml white wine, 50ml cream, salt, pepper Method Place a pan on medium heat, add oil and fry onion and garlic until soft. Add the seafood allowing the liquid to release. Add wine, peas and cream and simmer. Add risotto and mix. Once the liquid has evaporated add pecorino and mix. To serve place in a bowl and top with the open mussels, grated pecorino.  Tel: 021 876 2129  Email: functions@ricketybridge.com

Which cycling event returns to Franschhoek this month?

Send your answer to: tatlercompetition@gmail.com. The winner will be informed by return mail before 15 March 2014. Prizes have to be collected from the Franschhoek Info Office before end March 2014 or be forfeited.

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

Cellar Chat

Mark Tanner

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On and Off Course

We all know that a Rolls Royce never breaks down; it simply ‘fails to proceed’. Could such a polite, erudite response be afforded to a wine that disappoints?

Have you ever felt that a wine should be relegated to the kitchen, not only for cooking but perhaps also for removing awkward stains from the sink or stove top?

I have often heard the expression, “There is nothing wrong with this wine, however, there is nothing right with it either!” That is being polite, if sitting on the fence somewhat. My favourite comment on an ‘iffy’ bottle is that the wine is ‘Out of condition’, an excellent way of saying that it should be left alone.

Often in the wine trade one may receive an export order stating that the importer expects that for every 100 cases of wine an extra case should be included, free of charge, to cover the possibility of breakage and or corked or otherwise faulty wine. With the advent of the screw top and the resultant efforts of cork suppliers to improve quality, bad wines are now a rarity.

Of course the reason for a problem bottle is not necessarily to do with the closure. Bacteria are

everywhere and a visit to a wine cellar at bottling time will illustrate the efforts made to ensure a dairy like cleanliness. Water sloshes about on the floor and a faint chemical aroma confirms the battle against bacteria. Wine is acidic and over time it can erode a cellar floor forming depressions that can hold water.

All it needs is for an uncoupled pipe collar to rest in such a puddle with people stepping into that puddle to compromise the cleanliness and introduce enough bacteria to contaminate the first few cases when bottling resumes.

When it comes to restaurant etiquette a bottle of faulty wine is quite happily replaced as the restaurant can claim a replacement from the supplier, but only one bottle. On a visit to that ‘green and pleasant land’ I found myself sending a bottle back twice. The second bottle was as out of condition as the first.

With a third bottle approved the result was to have both the wine steward and the manager sitting with me at my invitation to sip and sip again just to make absolutely sure. On my next visit the place had closed down. Maybe a case of a message in a bottle?

Lawrence Gould

A good attitude makes a difference

A great evening with friends at Dutch East

People who know me will tell you I very rarely write (or indeed speak) badly of people. It comes from my Father’s advice, “That if you haven’t got anything good to say about them – say nothing!”

However, occasionally, my self-control has been known to be constrained. An experience this month has prompted this column. I could also have written to TripAdvisor, but actually my aim is to get a message across to the people involved that the restaurants in Franschhoek have garnered a collective deserved reputation for excellent culinary skills, complemented with attentive and professional service and any blight on this reputation does have an impact on the whole.

We arrived at the restaurant at 14h40, a spontaneous decision, as we are in the hospitality industry and shifts and timing are prone to these last minute moments.

Our aim was to sample this venue, as we were looking to entertain very good friends in the near future and as regular visitors to Franschhoek, the brief had been “Take us to a new and surprising venue.”

The welcome was less then warm and we asked when the kitchen closed for lunch. “We close at three,” was the reply.

“Great,” I said. “We just want a main course.”

A noticeably unfriendly response was that all we could have was from a special highly limited menu, which was pointed out again in a less then welcoming way. This had not been explained when we asked about the kitchen closure and I did press the fact that if the kitchen closed at three, surely we could order a main course now from the main menu. I will stop my moan now – suffice to say that we were then told, again in a less than friendly manner, and with a shake of the head. “Oh – OK then take a table.”

We didn’t stay, feeling highly uncomfortable and having experienced two of the (non-) welcoming waitresses, we decided to experience another restaurant. I will leave this very highly surprising moan on my part, with the thought that the two ‘unwelcoming’ waitresses who we dealt with, managed without much effort to get me to write this – AND to tell them that we had an absolutely marvellous experience with our six friends at Dutch East on Saturday night.

I do not mention the name of the venue, as the problem was no fault of the owners, but if the above culprits read this they will recognise themselves!

Summer wine companions

Anthonij Rupert Wines’ Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 and Terra del Capo Pinot Grigio 2013 are a great pair of vinous companions to have around on warm summer days.

The Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 forms part of the Cape of Good Hope range, terroir-specific wines created in recognition of South Africa’s 350-year-old wine heritage. The first vintage was launched in 2010, as a result of owner Johann Rupert’s Old Vines Initiative.

Winemaker Mark van Buuren describes this wine as displaying appealing tropical fig and pear aromas with granadilla and lemon zest, adding brightness and vivacity, with ripe tropical flavours in the mouth. The palate is textured and round with good mouth feel, allowing the wine to finish on a light, dry, flinty note.

The Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 is the perfect wine to enjoy on its own or partnered with foods such as Scallop Ceviche with an Avocado and Tomato dressing, Sushi, Sticky Pork Ribs with Lime, Chilli and Ginger, Baked Chevre with Salad Greens or Succulent Sautéed Prawns served with Grilled Lemon and a Toasted Sesame Seed dressing. Last year this wine was selected as one of the Top 10 Sauvignon Blancs in 5001 Tatler Franschoek ad-repro.indd 1

South Africa at the 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Challenge. It is available from the farm at R95.00 per bottle and in selected wine outlets throughout South Africa.

An Italian varietal, the Terra del Capo Pinot Grigio 2013 is the ultimate food-friendly wine. It was developed by the late Anthonij Rupert, who not only believed that South African soils were well suited to growing Italian grape varietals, but also had a love for Italy and the natural synergy between good food and wine.

“The perfect summer tipple”, as Mark describes the wine, is available in a screw cap bottle. It displays aromas of light peach and golden apple with a hint of stone fruit and floral aromas. The palate is equally light with a brush of honeysuckle richness with the vibrancy of freshly grated lime zest. Perfect for the summer, and as a foodfriendly wine, it is best enjoyed with a Grilled Squid Salad and Celery Leaf Pesto, Orzo Risotto with Buttery Shrimp or Spaghetti with Lemon, Chilli and Creamy Spinach.

Available directly from the farm or select wine outlets, the Terra del Capo Pinot Grigio 2013 retails for approximately R60 per bottle.

For more visit www.rupertwines.com or contact 021 874 9041.

2013/10/16 2:21 PM

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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

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Open Gardens 2014 New initiatives to spread the blooms Outstanding gardens take planning, especially if they are to peak at a designated time. It therefor comes as no surprise that both gardeners and festival organisers have already turned their thoughts to Franschhoek Open Gardens 2014.

This blooming popular event will take place from Friday, 31 October, to Sunday, 2 November, this year.

As usual the proceeds of the event will be in aid of Fleur de Lis home for the aged.

In addition to the usual selection of magnificent gardens, organisers are introducing two new initiatives this year.

“Blooming the High Street” is an initiative to encourage all merchants and landlords to plant their pavement pots and gardens for a spectacular display over the Open Gardens weekend. The municipality

do a great job with the rose garden and the NG Church garden always looks lovely, so it may well be asked: “Why not plant up the rest of the town?” A representative of the Open Gardens committee will liaise with all main road shops in the coming months to invite their participation.

The second initiative is a “Plant a Pot” competition in which 10 keen gardeners from the valley will be selected to participate. The planted pots will be displayed in a prominent position in the village over the festival weekend and there will be prizes for the three best pots. Pots and soil will be provided by the organisers. Competition details will be published in the May edition of the Franschhoek Tatler.

March 2014

Ingrid Bolton solo exhibition Local artist, Ingrid Bolton – who won the Sasol New Signatures art competition in 2012 – is exhibiting close to home.

Part of Bolton’s prize was the opportunity to stage a solo exhibition, which she did at the Pretoria Art Museum in August 2013.

Now her work comes closer to home in as she exhibits along with the seven 2013 Sasol prize winners at the Sasol Art Museum in Stellenbosch.

Bolton’s exhibition is titled ‘Connect Disconnect’ and runs until 29 March 2014.

Contact: rosestclair@mweb.co.za or OpenGardens @ icloud.com

New at Pearl Valley: Non-resident golf membership Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate has broadened their membership offering for 2014 through the introduction of Non-Resident Golf Membership.

Named Golf Digest’s Best Conditioned Golf Course in the Western Cape for 2010, 2011 and 2012 and awarded Compleat Golfer’s 5-Star Experience Award for five consecutive years; membership to this prestigious course has now become more accessible.

Non-Resident Golf Membership provides golfers not living on the Estate with the opportunity to enjoy Golf Member privileges, such as unlimited green fees, Golf Member tee times, access to Golf Member competitions and much more.

“We realize that there are a number of golfers living in the Winelands and Cape Town region who would benefit from member access to our championship golf course and we look forward to welcoming them as Golf Members and growing our membership base,” says Pearl Valley’s General Manager, Gawie Marx.

Pearl Valley places great importance on catering for the needs of its current residents and Golf Members and as a result only a limited number of Non-Resident Golf Memberships will be made available in 2014.

Unsurpassed for natural beauty and nestled in the gorgeous Berg River Valley, surrounded by the magnificent Simonsberg Mountains and situated on the banks of the Berg River lies Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate. This beautiful 212-hectare estate incorporates both a tranquil and secure country residential estate and an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

For more information regarding Non-Resident Golf Membership please contact Membership Manager, Aletia Oosthuizen, on 021 867 8000 or aletia@pearlvalley.co.za or Golf Manager, Carl Krog, on 021 867 8000 or carl.krog@pearlvalley.co.za www.pearlvalley.co.za

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March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

7

Me, a Mathematics Teacher?

Many are of the opinion that education is best left to the educator, we forget that education is a combined effort made by child, teacher and, most importantly, the parent.

Many of us claim to be under-qualified to provide an educational experience for our child, and when the word “mathematics” is mentioned we run for the hills. The distant memory of equations and trigonometry is too painful and does not want to be revisited! So we leave it to the professionals and forget about our role in education, a role that started even before our children entered formal schooling.

Take a moment, fast forward a few years and picture your child being faced with that same terrifying equation. Surely you want to best equip your child to be successful at school? The good news is it doesn’t require much effort, and can slot into everyday life. Here are a few simple maths activities to do with your pre-schooler.

Maths in the kitchen – Souschefs under the age of five are not always welcome guests in our kitchens, but take one for the team and involve them a bit. The kitchen teaches our children many mathematical concepts. Let them measure out ingredients, cut food into equal pieces, set the temperature on the oven and use their understanding of depth perception when packing the shopping away.

Maths in the bathroom – A rather unlikely place for mathematics! Most children struggle with the concept of time later on in their school career. Start introducing this concept by using a timer when brushing teeth. Get your little one to choose their own towel from a stack of different sizes; this will instil an understanding of area and size.

Maths in the shops – There are countless opportunities for learning. Young children can simply count out the right number of bananas or apples you need, working on their understanding of numbers.

The older child can help you find the numbers on the price tags. Involve them as much as you can, watch

021 876 3310

the lady weigh your veggies and talk about heavy and light packets. When you get to the till, allow your little one to pay every now and then, it teaches them the value of money.

Maths in the car – Get your child to call out any numbers he/she sees on a number plate or a road sign. Count the cars you drive past, the trees, the robots, count as many things as you can even if he/ she can only count to five.

You’ll be happy to know that even ‘packing up’ has mathematical value. The process of packing away toys requires children to estimate how many toys will fit into a container or whether the books will fit onto the shelf.

As you can see, you don’t need a doctorate in Maths to create an educational experience for your little one.

It comes down to a simple equation: Young child + parental involvement = a better chance at successful education Jenny Karsen – Bumble Bee Playschool

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

8

Tatler Motoring

by Michele Lupini Mercedes GT scooped too

Photo: Michele Lupini

Prototype Porsches snared in Franschhoek!

Our man was in the right place at the right time when a convoy of ten or more coming generation Porsches cruised through Franschhoek mid-February. Among the cars were a Boxster GTS and a Cayman GTS, only revealed at the Geneva motor show two weeks later, and the also yet-to-be-seen 911 Turbo Cabriolet. The recently reborn 911 Targa was also in attendance and most cars bore almost no camouflage. The Boxster and Cayman S are set for a 12kW hike to 250kW from the mid-mounted Boxer-6, while the new Targa (above) prompted onlookers to note it looks like a Corvette and the 420kW 911 Turbo S Cabriolet with its 3.8-litre twin-turbo boxer-six seemed quite mute in its all-black attire.

Golf R resets hot hatch rulebook

Another car Tatler Motoring recently stumbled upon was this Mercedes-Benz GT AMG. Merc design boss Gorden Wagener describes the GT as the prettiest Merc ever and promised its all-new 4-litre biturbo V8 will be a Porsche 911 Turbo killer when it gets to SA early next year. Our man’s close-up encounter with the heavily camouflaged new GT was enough to allow us to strip that disguise away for the computer rendering – what do you think?

Photo: Carol Lupini

All-new BMW X5

One of the more outstanding new cars we drove in the past month was VW’s mighty 206kW 380Nm Golf R. It’s set to put a people’s cat among the super hatch pigeons. Significantly quicker (down 1.4 to 5 seconds 0-100), more economical (almost 2l/100km down to 6.4), better sorted and still cheaper than the old one, the latest mega-Golf has quite a story to write. Look out for a comprehensive report and shootout in the latest AutoWeek newspaper on sale now...

Here is BMW’s all-new X5. Available in mighty 280kW 740Nm tri-turbo diesel diesel M50d, 330kW petrol V8 50i, revised 190kW 30d diesel; and with 35d and 40d models to follow, it’s brilliant on and off the tar. From R769 900.

Michele Lupini is editor of Franschhoek-based national car newspaper AutoWeek. Find AutoWeek in the Franschhoek Pick n Pays & BP or as an e-zine via www.autoweek.co.za

March 2014

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

Gardening in March

Natie Ferreira

March is a month of consolidation; slowing down to recap on the year so far and having a final look at all the discarded New Year’s resolutions. It is also a great time of increase – harvest time for the wine and fruit farmers, vegetables and berries in abundance and plenty of wonderful produce around to preserve, freeze, bottle or dry for the winter that lies ahead. In the garden it is also a time of increase – March is one of the best months to split, divide, take cuttings, transplant or share all our lovely garden plants.

Agapanthus, Watsonia, Dietes, daylilies, Iris, Aristea and most other spring and summer flowering perennials can now be divided. Do this to renew old plantings, but also to increase your garden (remember that we want to get rid of as much lawn as possible) and share and swop with friends. Split only healthy plants and discard all the old and unhealthy bits. Agapanthus should be dusted with an insecticide powder and also some sulphur if you had a problem with rot in the past. Plant the splits in enriched soil with bonemeal or super phosphate added. Dipel is a very effective biological control against the caterpillar that is currently wreaking havoc with agapanthus plantings in the Western Cape.

Roses still need some care. If you kept up your rose care program throughout summer you will be richly rewarded with the flower flush in autumn. Cut as many roses as you can and share with everybody, roses bring joy to giver and receiver alike. Deadhead regularly, spray against mildew and black spot and deal with insects as they arise. Roses should be given a fertiliser that is high in potassium this month – a 5:1:5 or 5:1:8 will be perfect.

Your vegetable garden should still be spoiling you with all sorts of delights – mine is brimming with sweet corn, pumpkins, butternuts, watermelons, tomatoes, aubergine, chillies and green beans. Pick daily and discard all fallen or diseased fruit. Pumpkin leaves that have gone pale with powdery mildew can be removed and burnt or thrown away – don’t use it for compost. I have found that this often gives a pumpkin plant a new lease on life and might lead to a second crop of late season squashes or pumpkins. Spent plants should be removed now and the beds prepared for winter planting. Sow cabbages, broccoli and cauliflower in seed beds for later transplant.

It is too early for peas, but a final sowing of green beans can still be made. Some nurseries are still selling tomato and pepper seedlings; I won’t bother too much with them now. Cover crops can also be sown now – sweet lupins work really well to trap nitrogen and be dug in as a green manure later. Citrus trees need regular watering and feeding with a high nitrogen fertiliser. This is the last active growing month for olive trees and they will require

a final high potash fertiliser.

On the preserving front I have been quite busy making jams, chilli sauce, pesto and tapenade. It is time to start thinking about stocking up the freezer for winter soups and stews. Blanching vegetables for a minute or two in boiling water and then cooling it down in ice water is an easy and efficient way to preserve all sorts of vegetables.

Beans, courgettes, patty pans (dice the bigger ones), diced butternut and pumpkin, kale, carrots and beetroot can all be frozen this way. Portion into plastic bags, remove the air by hand or vacuum sealer and freeze as quickly as possible.

I have also made a white gazpacho with my abundance of cucumbers and will let you know how that freezes.

9

Plant of the Month

Frankie Brooks

Ever blooming begonias Of all the begonia cultivars, semperflorens is one of the most popular ones commercially available.

The secret to why they are so loved is cleverly wrapped up in their name. Semperflorens, meaning ‘ever blooming’ or ‘ever flowering’ is exactly what one would want from a bedding plant. In fact, every garden should be ever blooming, don’t you think?

To plant in the sun, or the shade, that is the question.

It depends on what you want from your begonias as to what that answer is, because luckily they really don’t mind. Begonias reach for the sun when they’re starved of it, growing taller and spreading out more, a little like an umbrella, so can be planted further apart in the shade. Deeper shade is tolerable if that’s the gap you have to fill but you’ll have to compromise by accepting you’ll have less blooms.

Bedding begonias require very little maintenance and are available from dwarf sizes for pots and hanging baskets to some 30-40cm tall varieties which can be used to create borders in the back of a flower

bed. While they won’t survive a heavy or black frost, they could pull through mild winters if you don’t mind keeping some scrappy looking plants in your beds for a few months. They’ve been a favourite in home gardens for generations and one doesn’t need three guesses to figure out why.

Information supplied by the Bedding Plant Growers Association. For more go to www.lifeisagarden.co.za

Rainfall Figures Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street for periods indicated

mm/year 2002

1100

2003

824

2004

709

2005

916

2006

884

2007

1153

2008

1217

2009

978

2010

740

2011

830

2012

1079

2013

1471

mm/month 2013

Dam Levels 2014

Month

Accumulative

Month

Accumulative

January February March April May June

11 36 20 83 88 246

11 47 67 150 238 484

69

69

July August September October November December

139 409 131 61 242 5

623 1032 1163 1224 1466 1471

As at 17 February 2014 Steenbras Upper Steenbras Lower Wemmershoek Voëlvlei Theewaterskloof Berg River Dam

98.8% 70.4% 78.9% 77.3% 84.7% 94.0%

Total Storage 84.3% This Time Last Year 60.5% - 79.4%

T H E R E I S N O P L AC E L I K E R I A’S

Three busy teams now operate from my office: RIAPOOLS, VALLEY GARDEN SERVICES & RIAHOMES If you are unhappy with your current services, I suggest you give me a call.

We only need one key!

YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT! 5 STAR HOME SERVICES • POOL MAINTENANCE • GARDEN SERVICE • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • PROFESSIONAL STAFF • WE ONLY NEED ONE KEY

RIA: 072 347 5355 OR ROY: 071 591 0342 • EMAIL: ria@kingsley.co.za

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

10

Bhabhathane News Bhabhathane GravityLight Project Bhabhathane, with John Fourie of GravityLight, launched the GravityLight pilot project in the Langrug community on Monday, 17 February. Sixty families who have children at Dalubuhle Primary will pilot the use of this innovative lamp for a month.

After the pilot, the families will retain the lamps and will continue to benefit from the light generated.

There could be opportunities to expand the use of the GravityLights into other communities once the pilot is complete.

The purpose of GravityLights is to provide sustainable and reliable light, at any time. The children of Langrug will benefit from the light generated as it is sufficient for studying and reading. This innovative lamp enables communities to break free from the high cost of paraffin lamps and candles. GravityLights are safe to use and not hazardous to the health of families living in shacks and very small homes.

GravityLights use a bag filled with stones or sand, attached to a cord, which slowly descends – similar to the weight-drive in a cuckoo clock. This action powers the lamp for up to 25 minutes.

GravityLights can be used over and over again. As there is no need for sunshine or batteries, there are no

running costs associated with these long lasting lamps.

Should you wish to contribute to bringing light to the children of our valley through the use of these eco-friendly, safe lamps in our communities, please contact Jennifer Court, Bhabhathane Project Manager on 079 492 7455.

ACVV Franschhoek Die nuwe jaar is volstoom aan die gang. Ons wil graag almal bedank wat in 2013 betrokke was by die ACVV. Die kinders was Kersfees bederf met wonderlike geskenke en die sopkombuis by Lord’s Acre Mission en die ACVV kantoor het vele magies vol gemaak. Baie dankie aan al die besighede en individue vir die kontantdonasies en betrokkenheid by die ACVV.

Library to the ACVV family. In addition to reading stories to the children on Fridays they also have wonderful activities to keep them occupied.

We would love to make our office a little more child friendly. Apart from the food and clothing we receive, we’d like to ask that you consider bringing toys for the boys and girls that visit our office.

Kontak ons gerus met enige navrae by 021 876 2670.

Groete, Riana Pretorius

This year I would like to welcome the Franschhoek

Siyazama Disable Empowerment Giving hope to the disabled Siyazama Disable Empowerment (SDE) is a new organization founded by Mr. Sonwabile Bokwe, Ms. Magretha Maqwaha, Mr. Jim Brown and Ms. Samantha August.

Siyazama means, “We try” and according to the founders they’d like to work together with other organisations, especially social workers, the clinics, hospice and churches to better the lives of the local disabled community.

“There are countless disabled children who do not have access to schools and education and many more disabled people who do not have access to grants.

Siyazama Disable Empowerment would dearly love to assist these people with access to education and grants” they say.

SDE has started a support group and the women would like to start needlework workshops to teach other disabled women so that they can earn some income for themselves. They also want to teach and

assist disabled people to grow their own vegetables to enable them to provide for themselves.

Any disabled person is welcome to visit the SDE office – situated next to the Groendal Garden. Says SDE “We will assist you in any way that we can because we know and feel the pain that disabled people go through as all our founding members are also disabled.”

Siyazama would like to use the opportunity to thank Mr. François Malherbe “who assisted us in our time of need.”

SDE is in need of assistance to enable them to help the disabled. If you wish to donate to this worthy cause, donations can be made at Nedbank, Franschhoek, account number 2006794892.

For further information contact: Mr. Sonwabile Bokwe (Chairperson) on 076 969 7096 or Mr. Jim Brown (Secretary) on 082 868 8674. SDE’s office number is 060 445 4347.

Rotary News

Mark Tanner

Franschhoek Rotary, together with the Cape Winelands Department of Health, is holding a Rotary Family Health Day from 25 - 27 March at Lords Acre Church Hall in Franschhoek North. This event provides the opportunity for screening for diabetes, cholesterol, HIV counselling, TB and other examinations from 09h00 – 16h00 each day. For more information call 082 773 9217.

Franschhoek Rotary also offers an invitation to join our 11 March meeting when our speaker will talk on internet security and surveillance culture. Learn all about those CCTV cameras and what happens to the information they collect. To attend call Mark Tanner on 082 773 9217.

March 2014

SPCA

Maggi Marjoram During this very hot weather please don’t forget to make sure all of your animals have fresh clean water available all day and every day!

An appeal for volunteers: As we all know times are tough. During these times the SPCA’s resources are stretched to the limit as more animals and their owners need our help. The type of volunteer support the SPCA needs takes many different forms, from fundraising, building maintenance at our clinic buildings, donating items for our jumble sales, donating funds to help with medicines or food, joining our all-volunteer committee and much more. Whatever your special skill, the SPCA can probably use it! If you are able to help please contact Maggi on 082 510 3680 or 021 876 3595.

Remembering Many Franschhoek residents will remember our dear departed friend and celebrated South African Landscape Architect Ann Sutton. Ann was awarded the ‘2011 South African Icon of Landscape Architecture’ for her amazing talent. She was one of the first female landscape architects in South Africa and dedicated her life to the advancement of the profession of landscape architecture. Ann was not only passionate about her work but also about animals and was an active team member of our local SPCA right up to her passing.

Ann dedicated many years in designing the beautiful gardens of the Vineyard Hotel; working with Chris van Zyl (resident horticulturist) who now watches over the extensive gardens, covering just over six acres, with the Liesbeek River running

through them. The Petousis family, who own the Vineyard Hotel and were great friends of Ann, honoured her with a plaque at the lookout point over the beautiful gardens and river – one of Ann’s favourite places. We miss you Ann.

The plaque ommemorating Ann Sutton at the Vineyard Hotel

Boules tournament in Paarl On 8 and 9 March we have been asked to help organise a Boules tournament at Laborie Wine Farm in Paarl. Please get your teams ready and represent Franschhoek at this super weekend. For further information contact Maggi on 082 510 3680 or maggijm@telkomsa.net.

To keep up to date with what is happening at your local SPCA and in fact what is happening in the ongoing fight against animal cruelty and control within South Africa please visit our Facebook page.

Potjiekoskompetisie om die draai Stof af die potte – dis weer tyd vir die Franschhoek Klub se Potjiekoskompetisie! Die kompetisie vind vanjaar op 15 Maart plaas, onder die bome op die NG Kerk gronde. Vure kan vanaf 13h00 aangesteek word.

Die inskrywingsfooi is R100 per pot vir volwassenes en R50 per pot vir jeugdiges (onder 18 jaar oud).

Kategorieë waarin meegeding word is: Rooivleis pot, Seekos pot, Wildsvleis pot en Pluimvee pot.

Kaartjies is beskikbaar by Franschhoek Motors met ontvangs van kontant betaling.

Hospice News Colleen Douglas

Don’t be left standing at the station During March the Franschhoek Health Club is raising funds for Hospice. Come and have fun by walking, cycling, running, swimming and rowing for Hospice. Not into fitness? Then come support those who are crazy enough to do this.

How does it work? Simple. Come and purchase a coach, for R100, then choose your form of exercise and the kilometres you would like to do. Individuals or teams are welcome and you don’t even have to be a Health Club member to take part. Help FHK Health Club to help raise funds for Hospice. Prizes for the individual and team that racks up most kilometres!

Bridge drive Remember our Bridge Drive Lunch on 14 March at Domaine des Anges. Tickets are available at Hospice at R175 per person. Bring extra cash with you – there are exciting raffle prizes!

Nik Rabinowitz comes to Franschhoek. Book now!

A Feast of Comedy by Nik Rabinowitz. A Feast of Delights by our Franschhoek Chefs. AND Champagne too! All in aid of Franschhoek Hospice.

Join us at 10h00 on Monday 5 May 2014 at the NGK Hall.

Enjoy the laughter, the fun and the satire that is Nik Rabinowitz – on Franschhoek soil.

R150 per person, tickets available at Hospice.

Evelyn, Colleen, Sister Susan and Rachel of Franschhoek Hospice look on as Councillor Frazenburg cuts the ribbon to the newly-secured car park.

Limited seats, call now to book yours.

021 875 3085, Monday – Friday 08h30 – 14h30 Parking area secured Thank you to Stellenbosch Municipality, Greeff Properties and the other generous donors who have made it possible for us to secure the Hospice parking area.

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

Letters Barking Mad Dear Sir, It came as little consolation to discover that I am not alone in being plagued day and night by barking dogs. I am surrounded by 13 dogs within a 50m radius of my home and there is hardly five minutes of the day when at least half of them are not barking at something. They are all completely untrained and will bark at anyone who has the temerity to walk past their garden. Polite requests in the past have resulted in abuse in some cases and in no response in others. I now discover that quite a lot of people in the village suffer in the same way.

Having no wish to fall out with neighbours, the by-laws need to be enforced. I will find out soon what my rights are in this matter and unfortunately will be left with no solution other than to follow the formal route. It really is about time some dog owners in the village realised that the behaviour of their dogs is out of control and making life a misery for those of us unfortunate enough to live in close proximity to them. I was told on one occasion, “dogs bark, live with it.” Unfortunately this kind of response is not acceptable and properly trained domestic dogs do not bark at everyone and everything that comes within sight of them.

Yours sincerely, Irene Bates

info@franschhoektatler.co.za

Good Work Dear Editor During this last month I have come across an amazing new organization called Siyazama (We Try) Disable Empowerment. (SDE) Formed by a disabled group for disabled people their vision is to help enable other disabled people to stand up and help themselves and to receive help where they are unable to get it for themselves.

They have identified 85 disabled people in the Groendal, Langrug, Mooiwater area as well as 10 deaf children who are not in school.

They aim to get everyone disability grants, get the children into the Worcester school for the deaf and teach the adults to grow vegetables for themselves.

During February the first person they helped was a double-amputee lady, who they moved off a farm where she had been living, and for whom they built a shack in Mooiwater. A kind farmer helped them with this project.

They are to be congratulated. The people of Franschhoek should be proud to have men and women of this calibre living with this vision and this desire to help others.

Jane Bewsey

La Motte kinders presteer Die belang van goeie voorskoolse ontwikkeling is onlangs weer bevestig met die prestasie van kinders wat aan die buitengewone voorskoolse program by die Dennegeur Dagsorgsentrum net buite Franschhoek, blootgestel was.

Die Dennegeur Bemagtigingsprojek fokus op die opheffing van plaaswerknemers en hul kinders en veral op die voorbereiding van kleuters sodat hulle suksesvolle skoolloopbane kan hê, met die oog op graad studies in die toekoms. Die eienaars van die projek finansier alle aspekte van die leerders se ontwikkelingsprogram, skoolloopbaan en moontlike verdere studies.

Twee leerders wat voorskools deel van die dagsorgprojek uitgemaak het en wie se ouers op La Motte werk en op Dennegeur bly, het onlangs weer buitengewoon presteer.

Jaydene Marais, dogter van Katie en Paul Marais van Dennegeur was vanaf 2007 deel van die dagsorgsentrum op die plaas en het daar die blootstelling gekry wat bydra tot die sukses wat sy vandag van haar skoolloopbaan maak. Tans ‘n Graad 6 leerder aan Wemmershoek Primêr, is sy ‘n toppresteerder in haar jaargroep en het in 2013 onderskeidings behaal in Afrikaans, Wiskunde, Sosiale Wetenskappe, Natuurwetenskappe en Tegnologie. Sy is ook gekies as haar klas se DUX leerling.

Hlumelo Madolo was vanaf 6 maande tot sy pre-primêre jaar deel van die Dennegeur dagsorgprojek en is reeds in sy Graad 1 jaar aan Wemmershoek Primêr as topresteerder in sy klas aangewys.

Editor’s Letter

Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers Last month, I’m sure, many of you celebrated St Valentine’s Day. No doubt you spoiled the significant other in your life with a grand romantic gesture. As many planners of such gestures can attest though, they sometimes go horribly wrong in all kinds of unforeseen ways. And sometimes in ways that really should have been foreseen, such as the ring in the cake that gets eaten or the ring in the balloon that gets blown away.

This brings me to another romantic gesture that really displays a lack of foresight. Chinese lanterns seem to be increasing in popularity in South Africa.

For those not familiar with them, Chinese lanterns are essentially small hot air balloons. Usually they are made from oiled rice paper on a bamboo frame with a fire source suspended below them to provide lift.

Chinese lanterns are thought to have originated in 3rd century BC China where they were originally used for military signalling purposes. Their use spread over large parts of Asia and they are now an integral part of many Asian celebrations, from marriages to funerals.

As we all know ‘what goes up must come down’, and that’s where the problem lies. In tropical Asia perhaps it’s not much of an issue as the natural vegetation isn’t particularly prone to catching fire easily, but in drier and heavily populated places a Chinese lantern can easily cause havoc.

Last month a Chinese lantern that didn’t burn out in the air landed in a lavender hedge at a local guest farm, setting the hedge alight. If it weren’t for an eagle-eyed guest who put out the fire who knows what could have happened.

This is not the first incident of this sort in the valley. On New Year’s Eve 2013 a Chinese lantern landed in a Van Wyk Street garden and set fire to the lawn – fortunately it was doused when the automatic sprinkler system came on.

The bottom line is that next time we may not be so lucky. Somebody’s romantic gesture could be the cause of great loss and hardship for somebody else.

It is for this reason that several countries have instituted various types of bans against Chinese lanterns. Germany, Austria, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Vietnam, Spain and Australia are just some of the places where you could end up in prison for launching a Chinese lantern. I think it’s time for South Africa to join the list. And while we’re at it we might as well add another irresponsible nuisance, fire crackers, to the list of banned items.

On a sad note I’d like to acknowledge the recent passing of a well-known Franschhoek business person and former colleague, Elizabeth Rossouw. Elizabeth died tragically in a motor accident on 11 February.

I will always remember her for her witty banter and great love of animals. Rest in peace Elizabeth.

Until next month

Franschhoek Tatler Tel 021 876 3460 Email info@franschhoektatler.co.za Tatler Online www.franschhoektatler.co.za Deadlines - March 2014 Issue Ad Bookings: 13 February 2014 Artwork: 15 February 2014 Editorial: 13 February 2014

Franschhoek Literary Festival

Jaydene Marais saam met haar ma, Katie

Since its first year in 2007, the Franschhoek Literary Festival has grown in size and stature into one of South Africa’s most popular celebrations of writers, writing, and reading.

Up to 120 local and international authors will gather at this year’s festival, joined by hundreds of visitors.

As the festival has grown in popularity, early booking for accommodation is recommended, and would-be attendees are advised to reserve their tickets soon after the programme is released.

The festival offers a range of literary conversations, debates, and panel discussions, focusing on books published in the year since the previous festival, and others of current literary, social, and political relevance. Key events held in addition to the main programme include the announcement of the shortlists for the annual Sunday Times Fiction Prize and Alan Paton Award, the presentation of the FLF Wine Writers’ Prizes, readers’ dinners and a Poetry Slam for young poets.

The informal nature of the main events complements the laid-back ambience of the Franschhoek village, where festival-goers mingle with authors in the local restaurants and coffee shops between events, or browse through the second‐hand bookshops in the village. ‘Pop-up’ bookshops in the Town Hall and outside each event venue ensure the titles of all the participating authors are available.

Rev Joe Humbles

and is now assisting a group in Kylemore. The three Humbles children have left home and are following individual careers so the rectory at St George’s seems quiet, but elsewhere in the parish, the minister is hard at work.

Reverend Humbles considers pastoral theology his particular strength, a quality that will no doubt serve the congregation well.

The festival was the brainchild of South African author and Franschhoek resident, Jenny Hobbs, and locally born, UK-based author Christopher Hope. It has been nurtured with the passion and commitment of a small committee, adding great value to the South African literary landscape, with ticket sales contributing substantially to the FLF Library Fund.

The aim of the FLF is to make books more accessible, and to promote a reading culture in the Franschhoek community and to this end, the Fund has appointed a fulltime librarian serving four primary schools and purchased hundreds of new books for these and other local libraries.

In 2012, the first Franschhoek Literary Festival Book Week for Young Readers was launched in the week leading up to the main festival. This initiative brings participating children’s authors to every school in the Franschhoek valley, reaching up to 4 300 learners with readings, talks and performances that expose the children to the wonder of books.

The Franschhoek Literary Festival programme will go online in the second week of March.

If you would like to add your email address to the FLF database for advance warning of the date so you can book seats in good time, please send it to Tania Steyn at Franschhoek Wine Valley: marketing@ franschhoek.org.za Jenny Hobbs, FLF Director

Graad 8 kamp

Hlumelo Madolo en sy pa, Bista

New Minister for Groot Drakenstein parish Bishop Margaret of the False Bay diocese has sent a new minister to the Anglican parish of Groot Drakenstein. The congregation has welcomed the Reverend Joe Humbles who has now taken up residence at the rectory at St George’s.

Reverend Humbles and his wife, Yolanda, have come from All Saints Anglican Church in Belhar, where he says they spent four and a half very happy years.

Father Joe, as he is called by his congregants, says his new parish is rather different from his previous one where he had a big congregation with just one worship centre. The parish of Groot Drakenstein has St George’s, St Simon’s in Simondium, St Giles’ in Lanquedoc, St John’s in Kylemore and the outstations at Wemmershoek and La Motte Bosbou. The able assistance of Deacon Pieter Lourens means that regular services can be scheduled to serve all the Anglican congregants. Four Eucharist services are now celebrated in this parish every Sunday.

Father Joe is happy to be here and admits to other interesting changes, which he is taking in his stride. It is the first time he is serving a large rural community and says, “Most of my services are in Afrikaans which is a personal adjustment as I have served in English congregations only.” He adds,” I have not come to make wholesale changes but to build on what my predecessors have put in place and to make sure there are structures that work. My key consideration is seriousness about ministry and one’s relationship with God.” Yolanda Humbles has left her office job, but remains active – she is also a trained liturgical dancer

11

The good work continues The Franschhoek Valley Transformation Charter continues to implement the vision that Archbishop Tutu launched a year ago in February 2013. It is currently hosting three projects. The Farm Dialogue meets regularly once a month and at its last meeting on 10 February announced its programme for 2014. This includes actively assisting in setting up Farm Committees, however small, on as many farms as possible in valley. The Solms-Delta Farm committee, led by Quinton Daniels, explained to the meeting the advantages attached to such a committee. Other projects the Farm Dialogue has initiated include extending the activity of health clinics to reach all farm workers and maintaining contact with Stellenbosch Municipality in setting aside a quota of housing for farm workers in any new housing developments.

The Valley Choir project also celebrated its second year with continuing support from the Stellenbosch University Music Department in tutoring choir leaders in conducting techniques and sight reading of musical scores. Invitations to join the project are now open for choirs of the valley. (Please contact Jeremy Davids on 082 472 5156 for more information regarding this opportunity.)

The Bhabhathane project continues its good work and reports its progress separately.

John van Zyl

Breede Rivier avontuur

Hoërskool Franschhoek se Graad 8s het van 31 Januarie – 2 Februarie 2014 ‘n aksie belaaide kamp by die Breederivier naby Bonnievale beleef.

Hierdie jaarlikse kamp is deur Con Viljoen van Impact Adventures aangebied en het geen tekort aan opwinding opgelewer nie. Die aktiwiteite waaraan die leerders deelgeneem het was genoeg om enigiemand se adrenalienvlak die hoogte in te jaag – verfbal skiet (met ketties!), kajak roei en ‘n swaaitou in die rivier, ‘n toubaan in die bome 12m bo die grond, boogskiet en ‘n 60m ‘foefie slaaid‘.

Die skool bied die kamp aan om die Graad 8s te verwelkom en om hulle groepsamehorigheid te versterk. Woorde waarmee die leerders die kamp beskryf het was: uitdagend; baie lag; besonders; onvergeetlik; moeilik; koel; beste kamp ooit; baie avontuur; ongelooflik; ‘n leerervaring en energiek. Duidelik is die kamp ‘n suksesvolle en gewilde instelling!

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

12

Labour Law

March 2014

Financial Matters

Charles Kinnear

Celia McGuinness

Unfair discrimination

What is Sequestration and what does it mean?

Section 6(1) of the Employment Equity Act provides that no employer may unfairly discriminate, directly or indirectly, against any employee on a wide variety of grounds, such as race, sex, gender, HIV status, language, age and religion. This section is qualified by the inclusion of the words “or any other arbitrary ground”.

The burden of proof provision (section 11) is in turn qualified by distinguishing between allegations of discrimination on a listed ground and allegations of discrimination on an arbitrary ground: Where discrimination is alleged on a listed ground, the employer must prove that the discrimination did not take place as alleged, or that it is rational, not unfair or otherwise justifiable; Where discrimination is alleged on an arbitrary ground, the complainant must prove that the conduct complained of is not rational, that the conduct amounts to discrimination and that the discrimination is unfair.

Section 6(4) is a new section which once

in force will provide for equal pay for equal work/work of equal value as follows: “A difference in terms and conditions of employment between employees of the same employer performing the same or substantially the same work or work of equal value that is directly or indirectly based on any one or more of the grounds listed in section 6(1) or on any other arbitrary ground is unfair discrimination.”

The Minister will have the power to issue a regulation setting out the criteria and methodology for assessing work of equal value. We understand that these regulations are currently being prepared.

We point out that pay discrimination is already prohibited by section 6(1) of the Employment Equity Act and the inclusion of the proposed new section 6(4) is therefore not creating additional rights. It is, however, highlighting this form of unfair discrimination which may give rise to more litigation on this basis.

A person or entity is said to be insolvent when their liabilities exceed their assets. Depending on the circumstances, a debtor (that is, the insolvent) or a creditor may apply to the court for sequestration of the debtor’s estate. The effect of sequestration is, amongst others, to “divest the insolvent of his estate and to vest it in the Master until a trustee has been appointed, and, upon the appointment of a trustee, to vest the estate in him. If a person’s estate is sequestrated, this means that the court has issued a “sequestration order” which merely states that the person is insolvent.

There are two ways to start sequestration proceedings: the insolvent person may voluntarily surrender his or her estate, or a creditor may apply to court for the person’s estate to be sequestrated (compulsory sequestration). The result of the sequestration order is that the insolvent person’s assets are vested in the Master of the Supreme Court and then handed over to a trustee, who must sell the assets and distribute the proceeds among the person’s creditors.

Business Leadership

Tony Frost

Good Health is all about Life Balance So often we hear the cry about Work-Life balance.

People are stressed. They claim that it is all work and that they have no time for anything else.

In some cases, for brief periods, this may well be true.

But for most of us we are in the situation we are in by choice. We have made a decision, conscious or unconscious; to walk the road we are walking. Often we cover up this choice, especially when it seems that life has become overwhelming, by blaming others – my boss is so demanding, my customers don’t leave me alone (a very high class problem!), my employees are not up to it, my kids have such busy lives and demand transport and help, I cannot afford not to work hard, and so on.

Isn’t interesting to note that every one of these excuses/ phrases starts with me, my or I?!

Implicitly we acknowledge ownership of the situation, but equally we are saying that we think it is out of control and there is little we can do about it. It is right here that our thinking has to change, because if we believe that then there is very little likelihood of anything changing.

There are very few of us that have mastered the right balance in life. In any case it is a situation of constantly

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changing goal posts and so part of the key to good life balance is to accept that there are three absolute constants in life – death, taxes and change. The critical one for us here is the reality of constant change.

This reality should not be a surprise. From the moment of our conception we have been adapting to the environment around us in order to thrive in it.

We need to realise that the essence of positive mental and physical health is the right mind-set and the critical essential of that is the belief that you mostly control your destiny. At birth you were given the capacity and option of choice. Our choices are not always totally free but mostly we can decide how we approach life. We see the effect of the exercise of this choice all around us. There must be someone you know, or know of, who against all odds succeeds at being happy, positive and focussed.

Often these people are amazingly successful as well.

Equally there are bound to be people that you know that seemingly have it all and yet never stop complaining about their misfortune, bad luck and lack of opportunity.

Which would you rather be?!

Thus, sequestration is the act of removing, separating, or seizing anything from the possession of its owner under process of law for the benefit of creditors or the state.

In a recent case a Pretoria High Court ruling placed political party leader Julius Malema under provisional sequestration. Provisional sequestration just means the ruling is not final. Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) political party, had been pursued by the South African Revenue Services (SARS) for unpaid taxes amounting to R16 million. The sequestration ruling could hamper Malema’s political career and ambitions to serve in Parliament.

In the case of Julius Malema, the Pretoria High Court has scheduled a hearing for 26 May 2014, whereby the provisional sequestration could be made final. He has until this date to make alternative arrangements, such as paying off the money owed to SARS. The choice is really yours to exercise.

Central to Life balance is this knowledge of the certainty of choice. Note that I haven’t referred to worklife balance at all simply because I do not believe this is the issue. Work is part of life, nothing more.

The issue is to get your life into balance and this means fully analysing your life priorities and to allocate time to them accordingly. If you had one week of life left how would you spend that week?! This question should help you to decide what your real priorities are.

Once your priorities are clear it will become much easier for you to figure out how to ensure that the important issues in your life receive the attention they deserve.

There are no universal truths about this. There are, of course, some common priorities but even within these they will differ in importance from time to time and from person to person.

The worst thing you can do is to blame others or outside issues for your lack of balance. This is a certain route to disempowering yourself. Indeed it is a cop out. Choose to be in charge, choose to spread a positive outlook, choose to be supportive and helpful, choose to be kind (to yourself as well), choose to share. These choices are the choices that will lead to fulfilment, happiness and balance. Good luck!

Good luck, because making a choice is seldom easy; but very exciting and terribly empowering!! tony@siroccostrategy.com

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

13

Book Review

Charlotte van Zyl False River

with Danver Windvogel and Denver Adonis, owners of Huguenot Fine Chocolates. How did you become chocolate makers?

Our story starts in 1997 when the Belgian government created two bursaries to study chocolatemaking in Belgium. We were awarded these and qualified from Ellishout.

On our return, together with Penny Gordon, we created Huguenot Fine Chocolates with the aim of becoming the biggest BEE chocolate company in the country, (we have succeeded) and also introducing Belgian chocolates to South Africa.

Recently we bought out Penny’s share but she remains with us as a consultant. What was your most popular Valentine’s Day product?

A simple lollipop, a heart on a sucker stick, affordable for everyone and dispelling the myth that Belgian chocolate is expensive. What are you planning for Easter?

Easter is a biggie for us. We have everything from a giant 6kg bunny (we usually donate one to charity) to a mini egg. We source packaging from Belgium so we can be original but use plenty of local stuff as well. We use only the best imported chocolate from Belgium – too many Easter products are made with cheap chocolate. Your gift packaging is very special. Who does it?

This is designed by Penny and her team. When you were a child, what did you want to be one day?

Denver -- a lawyer; Danver -- definitely a professional rugby player. How many Franschhoekers have you helped with training?

Training is our passion. There are no facilities to do professional training in chocolate-making in South Africa, so it was up to us. We felt privileged for the training we received and so far have sent

two employees to do protracted training in Belgium.

But with a staff of 16, we had to create our own programme and to date have trained 28 people in chocolate-making and more than twelve in the art of packaging. What is your favourite part of the chocolate business?

For both of us designing and creating new chocolates and flavours and watching people enjoying them, like milk tart chocolate, crème brûlée and chocolate-dipped lemon and orange peel sourced in the orchards of Franschhoek. To stay current, we go to Europe often, because like fashion, food and motor cars, chocolate styles develop and change often. What will you never sell at Huguenot Fine Chocolates even though someone may want it?

Any kind of cheap sub-standard products made from inferior chocolate. A large part of our business is making ranges of products for retailers and resorts.

We are sometimes asked to reduce cost by using cheap chocolate. Never. We will not. What would you change about Franschhoek if you could?

Very little. Of all the towns in the winelands, there is just nothing like it. Perhaps more parking in the main road, it has diminished rather than increased and also more fun things for children to do. They are an important part of our client base and a market that should not be neglected. What do you guys do on holidays?

What holidays – not while you are building a business. How much chocolate do you eat?

It is a myth that when you work with chocolate you don’t eat and enjoy it. In the course of work we have to sample or taste quite a bit (yes, someone has to do it). After 15 years we still enjoy eating and tasting as do our staff.

By Dominique Botha Publ: Umuzi Bloomsbury 202 pages Enclosing the physical book “False River” on the front and back end-papers, is an illustration of Wolwehoek, the farmhouse in which Dominique Botha grew up. It is a typical Victorian farmhouse, with solid stone walls, a high corrugated iron roof, a deep stoep and elegant ornamental woodwork edging the roof.

It is on one of the ancestral farms owned by the Bothas. In the graveyard lie “Lots of Paul Michiel Botha’s and their wives and children cut down by the Great Trek, the Great Flu and great age.”

The book is constructed like the farmhouse, with a solid base which is almost a documentary replication of life in that part of South Africa in the latter half of the twentieth century. Yet, over it hovers the elegance of the radiant prose that shimmers with images and insights just short of poetry.

The farm lies in the Northern Free State, in the triangle between Senekal, Bothaville and Kroonstad. This is Antjie Krog country. She lives a few dusty kilometres down the road and there are lots of echoes of her poetry in Botha’s writing. It is also Max du Preez country, and his evocations of the interaction between Afrikaner domestic and political life resonate through this book.

But this is now also Dominique Botha country.

She is a young poet/novelist/biographer who has arrived with a bang on the literary scene with this impressive debut novel. Yet it is more than a novel because the main character is also called Dominique Botha and her family is palpably real. There are her parents, Andries and Sandra. There are her brothers, Paul Michiel Botha the 6th (around whom the novel revolves), the silent Christiaan, the sullen, hefty Boetie and the rather undefined younger children.

The writer chronicles the world of a leftish, probably

No fines at libraries All libraries in Stellenbosch Municipality will be celebrating South African Library Week 2014 from 16 - 23 March.

The theme for Library Week 2014 is: “Celebrating libraries in 20 years of democracy: Check in @ your library”. The phrase “check in” is widely used in social media to keep abreast with current trends as well as to announce one’s location. The theme also implies that one can keep up to date with information at the library, physically or online.

To readers books are more precious than diamonds.

“Some libraries in the greater Stellenbosch have the only copy of a book in the whole Western Cape and therefore we would like to preserve the book so that it will be available to all people in the Western Cape,” says Madelein Koegelenberg, Senior Librarian at the Franschhoek Library.

This is why Stellenbosch Municipality has instituted a fine-free month during March. All outstanding books - even if they were due at a library during 2001!

- can be returned to any library during March without fines being charged. “Use this opportunity because it will assist us to get you the book/information you need,” adds Koegelenberg.

bilingual, farming family that has to contend with natural disasters like drought, political disasters like P.W. Botha’s “Rubicon” speech, and family disasters like Paul’s self-destructive life that sees him drop out of university into conscription in the army.

All of this is seen through the eyes of Dominique who personalizes the sweep of the family saga by making it a description of the life and times of Paul. It begins with her four-year-old self, who idolizes her slightly older brother Paul, and it ends with the young woman who mourns his suicide. It is a death foretold; a not unfamiliar story of a gifted young man, a possible poet, who scorches his wings with drugs and wastes his gifts with too many useless ventures. In another era he could have been a Beat poet, but he is doomed by the history of South Africa and the burden of the family heritage. The time is out of joint for him.

Dominique’s life is pallid by comparison, and the reader has to do some mental gymnastics to remember that she is the author of this vivid, lively memoir. In a remarkable feat of memory Dominique tells of the way she and Paul grow up separately, yet always bound by a deep awareness of each other’s needs. They share a sense of homesickness as they go to boarding school in Natal; she understands his rootlessness as he drifts from one job to another and finally leaves the country.

Democracy comes to South Africa, too late for Paul, but not too late for the parents to start to take an active part in the new politics. The stone farmhouse at the end of the novel is still the same, but it is a different home that they now inhabit. And in the chronicle of the Botha’s only another grave has been added to the ancestral graveyard.

Dominique Botha will be taking part in three events at the Franschhoek Literary Festival this year. She will appear alongside Breyten Breytenbach in one of them.

Venues: Paarl & Wellington

Contact us at Tel: 083 708 2649 Email: info@phoxdanceacademy.com Web: www.phoxdanceacademy.com

B a l l ro o m & L ati n D a n c e C l a s s e s • Learn to dance socially or competitively • Beginners welcome • Quality tuition for individuals or couples • Wedding choreography • For students of all ages l and levels of dance

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

SUMMER 2014

MARCH 2014

Enjoy dinner from La Petite Ferme’s famous à la carte menu, alfresco under African summer skies, to the sound of live music on our lawns.

Fridays from 18:00 till 21:30 | R50pp cover charge | Reserve your table 021 876 3016 | For further details visit www.lapetiteferme.co.za

7 MAR Tarabu

Smooth Jazz

14 MAR Newton & Co Band Blues & Rock

21 MAR James Stewart Pop & Rock

28 MAR Natasha Meister Band Blues & Soul

March 2014

14 Smalls R30. 30 words max.

Leave at Franschhoek Pharmacy with payment

BOOK BINDING AND BOOK REPAIRS. John Hicks 082 361 0900 or john@thearmchair explorer.co.za FRENCH TUTOR: Do you want to speak French? Are you planning a holiday in France? Have you got French clients? An experienced French tutor is now available in Franschhoek to help you ‘parlez Français’. Call Jean Jacques on 078 757 2523. WHY NOT DELEGATE the maintenance of your garden into our RELIABLE hands. Tel: 072 3475355 HOME SUPERVISION: Do you need someone to supervise our home while you are away? Organise cleaners, garden services, etc. I have been a Franschhoek resident for 19 years. Please call Jean 082 699 3574. NICE GARDENS deserve our expert pruning. Valley Garden Services: 0723475355 GUITAR LESSONS: Play the Rock Schools or Rock and Pop syllabus or any style ranging from Rock, Jazz, Blues, Metal, Classical, Pop and much more with guitar teacher Nicholas Kerr. Phone: 082 430 93 83 HONEST HOUSESITTER / Responsible Caretaker / Caring Pet-sitter / Reliable Staff Supervisor / Home Manager.

Short-term / Long-term. References available. Sue Reader 083 270 9555

ACCOMMODATION NEEDED 1: Apartment/granny flat/one bedroom accommodation required for long term rental by Bhabhathane Fundraiser – if possible furnished or semi-furnished. In the village or on a farm.

Phone Lynn Campbell 079 110 5890. EXCESS BOOKS? Shelves creaking, moving house or just thinning out your collection? Contact John Hicks.

021 876 4129 FURNITURE FOR SALE: De luxe Coricraft leather sofa – excellent condition. Dark wood Weylandts dining room table and six chairs – as new.

Tel: 021 876 4850 Cell: 082 451 5548 ALLOW US TO bring the SPARKLE back into your pool. RiaPools 0723475355 ACCOMMODATION NEEDED 2: Apartment/granny flat/one bedroom accommodation with small outdoor space required for long term rental by Bhabhathane Project Manager (and small dog). Phone Jennifer Court 079 492 7455. SAFE, CLEAN, SPARKLING POOLS are our business.

RiaPools 0723475355 ELECTRIC PIZZA OVEN: 3-drawer electric pizza oven for sale. Very good condition. Manufactured by Elektro Dalhen (Buras Sweden). R15,000 negotiable. Tel 071 877 0031 HAS YOUR GARDEN BECOME A BURDEN? Call Valley Garden Services: 0723475355

FRANSCHHOEK LOCAL ACCREDITED SATELLITE TV AND AUDIO INSTALLATIONS. Satellite call-outs, repairs and set-ups. We supply and custom install according to your requirements. For a great deal please call 073 238 1875 THANKS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS for their continuing support! RiaPools 0723475355 LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL BOOK and can’t find it? Call John at the Armchair Explorer , we will source it for you. Cell: 082 361 0090

Cell: 083 252 1054 Fax: 021 876 3501 E-mail: wwt@iafrica.com

March 2014

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Hennie Nel 082 356 0226 | franschhoekit@vodamail.co.za

FRANSCHHOEK

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

16

March Calendar 4 March

Cooking Class: A taste of Asia Gain confidence cooking this exotic cuisine. Venue: Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards. Time: 10h00 – 13h00. Cost: R650 per person. Reservations: 021 876 8002 or cooking@leopardsleap.co.za

15 March

Rare Plant Fair 35 specialist growers sell directly to the public. Venue: Rustenberg Wines, Rustenberg Road, Stellenbosch. Time: 09h30 – 14h30. Cost: R10 entry per person. Contact: 078 021 2101/ 021 844 0154 or visit www.rareplantfair.co.za

Know your valley How well do you know your village? See if you know where each month’s photo was taken.

In the following month’s Tatler we’ll give you the answer.

Did you get it right last month?

Last month’s photo was of the cornerstone of what was previously called the Dutch Reformed Mission Church. It broke away from the main congregation in 1895. At the end of the apartheid era it was renamed the Uniting Dutch Reformed Church. The neo-gothic building was recently restored.

21 & 22 March

Groendal Primary School Carnaval Venue: School Grounds. Cost: Entry free. Contact: 021 876 2448 for more information

22 March

ATKV Oesfees A celebration of Boland music and culture. Venue: Solms-Delta. Time: 10h00 – 21h00. Cost: R150 per person.

Tickets: Online at www.plankton.mobi.

Contact: www.solms-delta.co.za, 021 874 3937 or info@solms-delta.co.za La Motte Classical Concert Pauna-Redfern piano duo performs works by Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Stravinsky. Venue: La Motte Historical Cellar. Time: 19h00. Cost: R170 per

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person. Reservations: Angela at 021 876 8000 or concerts@la-motte.co.za Iyengar-style yoga classes at Artemis barn, 18h00-19h00. Contact Danielle on 073 388 1404.

FHK Cycling Club Outrides Regular road ride to Stellenbosch and back followed by coffee. (MTBs also welcome). Venue: Meet at BP garage.

Time: 06h30. Contact: Paul Barkley 083 302 9096

Tuesdays

Church Services

Mondays & Thursdays

Alcoholics Anonymous Time 19h00. Venue: NG Church Consistory. Contact 021 867 0983 or 073 125 0188 (Jeffrey)

Thursdays

Haute Cabrière Summer Soirees Relax with good food, wine and music.

Venue: Haute Cabrière terrace. Time: 17h00 – 19h00 Cost: Snacks & drinks for own account.

Reservations: 021 876 3688 or restaurant@cabriere.co.za

Saturdays

Solms-Delta Summer Concerts Enjoy local music, Kaapse kos and Solms-Delta wines.

Venue: Solms-Delta. Time: 18h00. Cost: R90 per person excluding food & drinks.

Contact: museum@solms-delta.co.za or 021 874 3937 ext 135.

Franschhoek Farmers’ Market Breads, olives, ginger beer, pastries, plants, seedlings, breakfasts, coffee, crafts and more.

Venue: Dutch Reformed Church Grounds. Time: 09h00 – 14h00

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Joytish Vedic Astrology Robert Rittel

ARIES (21 March – 19 April) Great enthusiasm without knowledge is like a boat on dry land. A retrograding Mars will put your energies to the test. TAURUS (20 April – 20 May) Venus is in the constellation of Aquarius and is looking for unusual and eccentric entertainment.

Take the bull by the horns and let the hippie in you out. GEMINI (21 May – 20 June) Many planets are in water signs and lead to emotions coming from unexpected depths.

Mercury, the rational and logic thinker will have difficulties coping with that. CANCER (21 June – 22 July) In the home of the moon expand your natural potential for caring, to create more than the usual natural affection towards those in need. LEO (23 July – 22 August) The Sun in Pisces and its ruling planet Jupiter, make for great friends, so there is great potential to expand your business and associations.

Overplaying your ideals will leave you wondering with disappointments. VIRGO (23 August – 22 September) Unnecessary confrontations to justify your rights will get you nowhere. Be careful with your diet and stay away from fatty food and sugar indulgence. LIBRA (23 September – 22 October) To know yourself is the greatest gift, if you can give your introverted knowledge some

time to develop, it will need no approval from others. Be wise and hesitant with intimate relations. SCORPIO (23 October – 21 November) Holding on to your frustrations and dissatisfactions are hot coals in your hand, which become the metaphor of self-destruction. Letting go is the bird in your hand that knows its direction. SAGITTARIUS (22 November – 21 December) A good month for those Centurions who can create some sound endeavors towards their beliefs. Some philosophical advice can put you on a new plateau of wisdom. CAPRICORN (22 December – 19 January) Pluto the planet of psychic depth and despair is in association with Jupiter, the planet that removes all obstacles, bringing solutions to you deepest fears. Be careful of discrimination. AQUARIUS (20 January – 18 February) Having Venus transiting through this asterism brings an easy and a relaxed atmosphere into your home and mind. A good month for mental and physical rejuvenation to be exercised. PISCES (19 February - 20 March) Kind speech and the use of time in studying the knowledge of the heavens, will keep you out of troubled water. Follow Dharma, truth and kindness, and remain flexible with the changes around.

For consultation please write to robert.vedicastrolology@gmail.com or call 073 312 1265

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Franschhoek Methodist Church Sunday service 09h00 – all welcome.

Rev Nuno Vergueiro 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509. Contact person: 021 876 2510 or 083 287 5756 NG Kerk Franschhoek Sondagdienste 09h30. 021 876 2431.

Ds Peet Bester. Geen aanddiens meer.

Shofar Christian Church Sunday service 09h00. Pastor Yannis Acavalos 021 876 3348 Roman Catholic Church Mass every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Methodist Church, Bagatelle Rd, Fhk. 073 488 6816 Trinity Church Franchhoek Sunday service 10h00. Fr Gavin Mitchell 083 799 0726.

All Services are held at L’Ermitage Hotel Chapel in Franschhoek.

Anglican Church: St George’s Church, Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles – 021 874 1120

Useful Numbers

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ACCOUNTANTS 021876 2676 Tax Shop ATTORNEYS 021 876 2592 / 072 402 9469 Susan Charlesworth Attorney BURGLAR ALARMS 021 876 3308 Pepler Alarms CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS 021 876 3031 Boland Bridge Club 082 557 0278 Franschhoek Tennis Club 021 876 3460 Franschhoek Valley Conservation Trust 021 874 1906 Grt. Drak. Games Club 021 876 3775 Lions 021 876 4178 Rate Payers’ Association 072 211 9991 Stellenbosch Masonic Lodge (Chris) 082 773 9217 Franschhoek Rotary Club COMPUTER SERVICES 082 356 0226 Franschhoek IT Services ELECTRICAL 073 238 1875 Home Technology 082 823 7119 / 021 876 3640 Franschhoek Electric 021 876 2120 / 083 309 2923 Rensburg Electrical EXCAVATIONS 021 876 4431 / 082 972 5755 Andrew Schmidt 072 340 8518 Burger Excavations HEALTH & BEAUTY 021 876 2261 Franschhoek Pharmacy 021 876 3543 Franschhoek Health & Skincare 021 876 2218 Hairdresser 021 876 3310 Franschhoek Health Club HOUSE & GARDEN 028 840 1716 Clock Repairs 021 876 3640 Lighting & Accessories 021 872 0747 / 083 658 4944 Paarl Pools 021 876 2612 / 072 347 5355 Ria Pools (Franschhoek) INTERNET ACCESS 021 876 4741 Internet Café 021 876 3025 PostNet OPTOMETRIST 021 872 3530 Marelise Bester PHOTOGRAPHIC 021 876 4741 Franschhoek Photolab PHYSIOTHERAPIST 021 876 4234 / 082 582 1029 Claire Horn PLUMBERS 021 876 3759 Franschhoek Plumbing 084 550 5229 Rudolf Smit PUBLIC SERVICES 021 876 3085 Hospice 021 808 8406 Library 021 808 8700 Municipality (Office Hours) 021 808 8890/1 Municipality 24 hr Service 021 876 2532 Museum 021 876 2342 Post Office 021 876 2670 Welfare (ACVV) 021 876 4808 SPCA SCHOOLS 021 874 8100 Bridge House School 021 876 2079 Franschhoek High School 021 876 2448 Groendal Primary School 021 876 2211 Groendal Secondary School 021 876 2360 Wes-Eind Primary School

STORAGE 021 876 2174 Franschhoek Storage STEELWORKS 021 876 2675 / 084 514 4838 Franschhoek Steel TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES 021 876 3603 Info Office 021 876 4042 Winelands Experience TRANSPORT GOODS 021 876 2440 / 082 821 5234 Gerald Fourie VETERINARY 021 876 2504 Surgery (pm only) 021 876 4278 Huguenot Animal Clinic 082 577 9900 Emergency WINES 021 876 3775 La Cotte Wine Sales 021 876 2861 Vignerons de Franschhoek EMERGENCY NUMBERS 021 808 8888 Fire Rescue 10111 / 021 876 8061 Police 086 003 7566 Eskom 082 374 2949 Neighbourhood Watch 021 808 8890 Municipality (afternoon only) 021 808 8700 Municipality 24hr Service 021 852 3318 Omnipage Farm Watch 021 876 2346 Plaaswag DENTISTS 021 876 3070 Dr Schalk du Plessis 021 876 2634 Dr Rob Hammer 021 876 4320 Dr Servaas de Kock DOCTORS 021 876 4622 Dr Tracey Garner 021 871 1063 Dr Shelley Hellig 021 876 2474 Dr Alexander Heywood 021 876 2304 Dr Hannes Van der Merwe EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE 074 363 7744 / 021 876 4316 Medicare EMR

March 2014

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

Estate planning (Part III) In my February article I described how one uses an Antenuptial Contract and Will as basic estate planning tools. Other estate planning tools used less often but nonetheless just as important in certain cases are: The Discretionary Family Trust This type of trust is one created during your lifetime (inter vivos) as opposed to a testamentary trust which is created in your Will and comes into being only on death.

In order to create the inter vivos trust a trust deed is drawn up which provides, amongst other provisions, for the appointment and powers of trustees (usually three), a class of beneficiaries (see under Income Tax below) and the date on which the trust will terminate.

Estate Duty and to a much lesser extent Income Tax savings can be achieved by using this type of trust.

Estate Duty Generally the founder (sometimes called the donor or settler) donates an initial nominal sum of R1 000 to the trustees of the trust to create the trust and to provide the initial funds.

Thereafter either the founder, the planner or any other party (individual or juristic entity) including a trustee may vest assets in the trust by way of donation or sale. It is common for a discretionary family trust to acquire immovable property but other assets which might have the potential to generate capital growth should be considered, for example, a portfolio of shares. The cost of transferring immovable property to a trust is the same as for an individual, that is, transfer costs and transfer duty.

Usually the asset is sold to the trust (not donated as this attracts donations tax at 20% - see below for the annual donations tax exemptions), the seller (planner) being left with a loan account for the value of the asset sold. The capital appreciation however takes place in the trust which is separate from the estate of the planner so whilst the loan account diminishes over time the asset appreciates in the trust where it is not subject to estate duty.

This is known as “freezing” the value of the planner’s estate.

It is important for the planner to realise that in order to avoid the deeming provisions of the Estate Duty Act he must effectively remove the asset from his control. This is done by the appointment of enough independent trustees to, in theory, out vote him.

The beneficiaries of a discretionary trust should not obtain a vested right to the trust capital or income. See under Income Tax for the practical application of the trustees’ discretionary powers.

This enables the trustees to effect minimal income tax savings by “income splitting”.

Income Tax A discretionary trust provides for the trust capital and income to be distributed, at the discretion of the trustees, to any one or more of the class of beneficiaries listed in the trust deed.

Usually the class of beneficiaries consists of the founder and his spouse and their descendents and a trust created for any of them but can include parents and sisters and brothers and in fact anyone whom the founder considers may require support at some stage in the future. A discretionary trust has the advantage of income splitting for income tax purposes. In practice, the trustees, by a resolution of trustees, decide which of the beneficiaries is to receive income and/or capital during the year. It should be noted that the class of beneficiaries does not acquire a vested right to income or capital until the resolution of trustees is passed. It is possible therefore in a discretionary trust to distribute income to a beneficiary with a low marginal rate and to distribute capital to a beneficiary with a high marginal rate. It also has the advantage of ensuring that income is not distributed to an insolvent beneficiary.

Disadvantages The levying of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on inter vivos and testamentary trusts is a major disadvantage. The current inclusion rate is 66.6%.

At the trusts statutory income tax rate of 40% this equates to an effective tax rate of 26.64% of the gain. This has the effect of discouraging the trustees’ from buying and selling growth assets within a trust. It should be noted however that the vast majority of discretionary family trusts are created to house the planner’s growth assets so as not to attract estate duty on his death. On the death of the planner a CGT liability can be passed onto the beneficiaries by terminating the trust and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries.

Donations of assets during lifetime Donations made by a deceased during his lifetime do not form part of his dutiable estate however he will be taxed at 20% of the donation in excess of the donations tax exemption which is currently R100 000 per annum . In practice a person uses his annual donations tax exemption to donate cash or assets worth R100 000 each year to a discretionary family trust. If both husband and wife use their annual allowance for this purpose their combined estates are reduced by R1 million over a 5-year period.

Importantly, it should be noted that currently donations to a spouse are free of donations tax – there is no limit.

Please also be aware that if the donations tax exemption of R100 000 is used to reduce a loan account, there is a CGT implication which should be considered before making this type of donation.

Susan Charlesworth

Repeat home buyers still favour the Western Cape Bill Rawson, Chairman of the Rawson Property Group, has drawn attention to an article published in the December 2013 edition of “Agent”, the official publication of the Estate Agency Affairs Board.

This article makes it clear that of all the nine provinces in South Africa today, the Western Cape has by far the lowest percentage (12,9%) of repeat home buyers (i.e. not first time buyers) leaving the province and the strongest net inflow (6,7%) of repeat buyers from other provinces.

This situation, the article suggests, is due to the Western Cape’s economy being the second largest in South Africa, to its having the second fastest growth rate and the ability to offer job opportunities.

Also influencing the migration pattern is the Western Cape’s “perceived high quality lifestyle”, which, it is suggested, is superior to that offered by any other South African provinces.

The article also reports that three of the “big four” provinces (Gauteng, KZN and the Eastern Cape) are experiencing net outward migrations of repeat buyers and Bill Rawson, Chairman of the Rawson Property Group this, it suggests, is likely to affect that 31% of total repeat buyers left Limpopo, the economies of those provinces adversely, 33,3% left North West, 29,9% left Northern Cape, even though a high percentage of the migrators 26,1% left Free State and 24,3% left Mpumalanga. are leaving for reasons not related to their work, “Analysing the survey,” says Rawson, “home e.g. retirement. Gauteng, the article says, has the owners in the Western Cape, whose property lowest loss of skilled, still active workers. prices have over the last three or four decades As would be expected, the larger, more always been more stable, and stayed well ahead economically active centres, especially those in of the national average, can take comfort that Gauteng, experienced the biggest net inflow of this trend is likely to continue, even though the aspirant first time home buyers in the early stages economic growth rate in Gauteng is significantly of their working lives. The threat to the economics ahead of that of the Western Cape.” of the five smaller provinces is shown by the fact

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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

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INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY GROUP

REMAX.CO.ZA

March 2014

The Real Estate Leaders NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX

March 2014

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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

March 2014

March 2014

Franschhoek

Sales & Residential Letting 021 876 2100 winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

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Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833 Doug Gurr 072 610 7208

FLEUR VUE – WINE AND OLIVE FARM

R16.5 MILLION

This immaculate wine and olive farm is just minutes from the Village. Offering beautiful views of the manicured gardens, vines with river frontage and mountains beyond. Comprised of main house, charming cottage, manager’s cottage and large barn. A beautiful mature garden with fruit and nut orchard completes this quintessential lifestyle farm.

Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 4 Garage: 3 Web Access FWI1134735

L’ERMITAGE LUXURY APARTMENT

R1.95 MILLION

This luxurious 1 bedroom apartment is situated in the award winning L'Ermitage Hotel and Villa Development. Offering a spacious and sunny bedroom suite with a luxuriously appointed bathroom and French doors opening onto a lovely undercover patio. The living area comprises of an open plan lounge, dining room and kitchen, granite tops, under floor heating and

Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1 Parking: 1 Web Access FWI1055561

THREE BEDROOM TOWNHOUSE

R3.5 MILLION

This luxury apartment is located in an outstanding position overlooking the Huguenot Monument and mountains beyond. Comprising of a large open plan kitchen and living area, with folding sliding doors opening onto the garden and private plunge pool. Superbly positioned, just a short stroll to the shops and restaurants, these apartments make for an excellent investment.

Financials available on request.

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Parking: 1 Web Access FWI1039548

www.pamgolding.co.za/franschhoek

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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER

March 2014