Stanford river talk december 2013

Volume 100 |DECEMBER 2013 | Stanford‘s monthly newspaper | R14

Merry memoriees

S TANFORD H I L L S ESTAT E

A Merry Christmas to all our loyal customers. Thank you so much for your support during 2013. We will be open every day during the school holidays (except Christmas and Boxing day), and look forward to seeing you all at Stanford Hills!

11am to 5pm, chalkboard menu changes daily depending on what is freshly available.

Call Bridget on 072 639 6135 to find out what's cooking, or to make a booking.

028 341 0841

info@stanfordhills.co.za

www.stanfordhills.co.za

R43 Stanford

STANFORD RIVER TALK TA ALK 1

STANFORD RIVER TALK 2

editorial notes The season of sunshine and lazy summer evenings is upon us – what bliss. Stanford has a chock-a-block line-up of markets, live music and theatre, family Christmas events, charity fundraisers and good outdoorsy fun.

Our December edition is packed with festive cheer and endof-year celebrations. Well done to all our local school children who have completed the academic year (School Talk, page 10) and are planning to let their ponytails down, or grow their hair, this December. Fred Hatman offers unique survival tips for Stanfordians in high season (Out of the Hat, page 15) and we feature just a few of our local eateries, as recommended by local folk (Stanford Eateries, page 14) Christmas time can be a time of joy or of sadness. To all those who feel especially lonely or notice the space at that table, we wish you peace and comfort. Whether you are working through the summer holiday, hosting family and friends, lying low or visiting, Happy Christmas to all, and to all, a good time.

COVER PICTURE: a retrospective sample of cover pictures from Stanford River Talk archives.

find our business page on facebook

Sheep on the trot: Hamish van der Merwe collected his lost sheep after it trotted down Queen Victoria Street doing some window shopping.

MONTHLY CONTRIBUTORS Cath Croxton, Janika Dorland, Bob Hadley, Fred Hatman, Andrew Herriot, Melissie Jolly, Olga Koorts, Don MacIver, Karen McKee, Martin Ranger, SJ du Toit, Naas Terblanche and Tania Weich.

CONTACT US www.stanfordrivertalk.co.za Phil Murray – editor, 082 667 0619, philippa.murray@gmail.com Sandra Slabbert – design, design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za, 079 523 8453 Michelle Hardie – All account queries, 079 2911 588 Editorial Contributions & Disclaimer Editorial contributions are welcome and should include top quality photos where relevant. Articles will be printed under the contributor‘s name or an accepted nom-de-plume if the full name and address is provided. All contributions are voluntary and not paid for. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend, abridge or reject any article. Opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editor. Copyright All material in this issue is copyrighted, and belongs to The Really Famous Publishing CC unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be reproduced without prior permission. Published and printed by The Really Famous Publishing CC.

letters to the editor

Please send your letters to ed@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or to PO Box 228 Stanford, 7210. Try to keep letters as short as possible (100 words or less) and supply your name and address. Anonymous letters will not be published. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend, abridge or reject any letter.

Good gardening Thank you Suzanne-Francoise Rossouw for you article Crazy about Cacti (November 2013). I found much to learn from it. I live in a bachelor flat and have just started a small cacti garden in an earthenware pot.

Your description of planting, watering and fertilizing is most helpful.

I also shared it with friends in Hermanus who enjoy reading Stanford River Talk.

Esje du Toit

Au naturel In his letter (The deep divide, November 2013), Martin Ranger unfortunately offers no help in bridging the divisions over policies concerning management of the Klein River Estuary.

Some salient features illustrating the controversy: During the flood conditions which occurred on 15 – 17 November the water rose to the 1:50 (one in fifty year) flood level while the estuary mouth was open. The effect of this natural phenomenon on houses on the river, some two kilometres downriver from Stanford, was that they were inundated (500mm underwater). Some of these property owners are advocates of artificial breaching.

In the Hermanus Yacht Club's entrance hall, a 1954 map and drawing of the estuary by Ian Williams, an engineer, reveals that the river was 19' deep against the rocks on the south eastern bank (Gansbaai side) and 11' deep against the rocks on the North Western bank (Hermanus side) and that the river breached in its present position (Hermanus side).

Artificial breaching on the south eastern side of the berm (Gansbaai side) causes the moribund conditions presently being witnessed, due to the altered river path. This, together with the disregard of set back line, causes siltation and pollution of the entire estuarine system.

Lastly, Mr Ranger's letter highlighted some confusing points. If ‘artificial breaching may not be considered if the water level at the mouth is less than 2.6 metres above mean sea level‘ then ‘[breaching] annually if natural breaching is considered to be unlikely‘ seems a contradictory point. Does this create a loophole to breach the mouth again on the south eastern side to appease vested interests?

The river opened naturally on the north western side on 14 August – it found its old course! Let the river do the talking, and us the listening and learning.

John Williams

STANFORD RIVER TALK 3

letters to the editor

IN MEMORIAM

4x4 Tomfoolery I was upset by all the 4x4 drivers who took unfair advantage of the flood aftermath to prove they had off-road vehicles. They drove on the gravel roads, parking on and cutting up the soft verges when they turned, and generally gawked at others' misfortunes.

The owner of one vehicle drove at fairly high speed in front of my friend's house. The bow wave from the tyres washed pooled stormwater through his garage and into his kitchen, causing additional damage. The driver should be made to do community service, and help unfortunate residents mop up. What selfish behaviour he displayed! I saw all the flood damage while walking my dogs on foot.

The municipal workers did well to get the road ‘repaired’ quickly. Thank you. It is a long and expensive drive to Hermanus via Caledon! A lot of people who work in Hermanus are very grateful.

Grey Beard

Leopard Toad Alert The highly endangered Western Leopard Toad is a fynbos endemic. They are particularly vulnerable because they prefer open areas, especially when moving to and from their breeding sites (mostly in August).

They do, however, move around at other times of the year. Recently one was killed by a vehicle in Stanford, the first recorded incident of its kind. With all the hustle, bustle and excitement of Stanfordians and their welcome guests and families, danger to our Leopard Toad increases.

As a result of R14 500 received as a grant for a Sony Camcan following the Wildlife Conservation Auction held during the Stanford Bird Fair, Naas Terblanche of Vaalvlei, a highly respected local amphibian authority, is currently researching and filming the species. He hopes this will result in a definitive documentary suitable for widespread release.

He has appealed to drivers and the public in general to be aware that the Leopard Toad needs our protection. Anybody coming across one is urged to contact Naas Terblanche or Royd Frith.

Their fragile future depends on us.

Royd Frith 028 341 0896 and Naas Terblanche 072 782 3431

PETER JOHANSEN (1944 – 2013) Dear Friends Peter loved this village. Thank you all for your unfailing support throughout his illness.

I would like to thank some special people: Dr Wendy Cooke, who is so much more than our doctor, came from Onrus whenever Peter needed her. She took the time to talk so gently and sensibly to us both.

Edward arrived in my time of panic when Peter objected to my shaving skills. He was there for us both with such strength and gentleness.

Gerna from Overstrand Hospice helped in so many ways. Our friend, Yvonne, who was there for me at odd hours of the night.

Peter’s daughter, Inge, was with us at the end. He so loved her and his son Hayden. Special mention must be made of Peter’s mother, Ellen, who has shown such courage, strength and dignity through this most difficult time.

Thanks to my sister, Dee, for her unfailing support, her brilliant secretarial skills and so much more.

St Francis has lost its most famous king of the canals, 'Peter Perfect' – what laughs we had at 'Un-stable'.

Eric, who was his friend, deserves eternal thanks.

Bryden and Innes, Eben and Marie – your strength and thoughtfulness were awesome. Elaine put up with Peter's filing and was there whenever I needed coffee! And not least, a big thank you goes to Eileen and Emanuel who kept the cogs turning during these difficult months.

To all our friends, I thank each and every one of you for all you have done.

Cheers to my Peter.

Pam Johansen

Free bar snacks for major sporting events on Saturdays.

Open Monday to Wednesday 6pm till late.

Friday 5pm till late Saturday 12pm till late Sunday 12pm till 4pm

30 Shortmarket Street, Stanford • contact Santie or Karl on 028 341 0662 ot 071 287 8823 STANFORD RIVER TALK 4

Meeting held 14 November 2013

STANFORD LOW-COST HOUSING PROJECT The land has been purchased from the chicken farm and has been transferred into the name of the Overstrand Municipality. The project has now entered the planning phase.

BIRD HIDE AT WILLEM APPEL DAM The Bird Club has been requested to put up a sign on the bird hide so that visitors can know where to obtain a key.

PLAYGROUND FOR CHILDREN Numerous requests have been made for a playground in the centre of town. The dysfunctional ‘jukskeibaan‘ on the Shortmarket Street side of the village green (formally a tennis court!) has been earmarked for such an area.

However, as the village green and its surrounds have been classified as a Heritage 3A site, any changes to the site have to be approved

by Heritage Western Cape, after first having been approved by Stanford’s own Heritage Committee. The intent to have something in place by December will therefore not be possible, but the aim is to have it in place by March – or find an alternative site.

STANFORD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The municipality intends to have all Christmas lights up in the first few days of December, with the official switching on ceremony on 6 December.

PASSENGER ACCESS TO RIVER BOATS Boet Venter, chairperson of the Stanford Ratepayer’s Association, was tasked to convene a meeting with all boat owners to determine an interim solution for the December holiday period. Bernie Oberholzer is busy drawing up a precinct plan for the river, which will then be used for the environmental impact assessment (after July 2014) to gain approval for more structured tourism facilities along the river bank.

GREENEST MUNICIPALITY FUNDS Funds available from the two Greenest Municipality competitions won by the Overstrand have been pooled. A total of R7 million is now available for projects in the Overstrand and the original wish list of R16 million has had to be scaled down. The list provided to the Ward Committee was met with utter dismay, as hardly any funds had been allocated to (our) ward 11, which comprises Stanford, Baardskeerdersbos, Eluxolweni, Pearly Beach and Buffeljagsbaai. Councillor Dudley Coetzee urged the officials to rectify this situation at the municipal task team meeting to be held on 17 November. Stanford specifically asked for funds to improve the area around the community centre and along Bezuidenhout Street.

news & updates

Ratepayers Association At the meeting held on 15 October chaired by Ward 11 Councillor Dudley Coetzee and convened by Ward committee member Royd Frith, the Stanford Ratepayers Association (SRA) was reconstituted to replace the former SRA which had ceased to exist.

There were 54 paid-up ratepayers present and by proxy, the former SRA constitution with one minor amendment was adopted and a new committee was elected.

The AGM is scheduled for February next year, but ratepayers are encouraged to join the SRA in the meantime at a nominal subscription of only R5 and participate in the civic affairs of Stanford.

Stanford forms part of the essentially rural Ward 11 of the Overstrand municipal area; the ward also incorporates Pearly Beach, Eluxolweni, Baardskeerdersbos, Buffeljagsbaai and the farming district, but excludes Gansbaai and surrounds. An independent ward requires at least 3000 eligible voters registered on the voters roll.

The new committee has since commenced to function with a view to promoting public issues on behalf of all ratepayers in the village.

Boet Venter (Chairman) 082 602 5394 Mignon Farquharson (Secretary) 028 3410 368

CONSIDER THIS

WARD COMMITTEE FEEDBACK

It really is lame and absurd To always be seen but not heard.

So come have your say Join the new SRA You’ll see we mean every word!

The Stanford Ratepayers’ Association exists to represent the ratepayers of our village. The committee comprises ratepayers from the village with the same concerns, grievances and wishlist of any community. We need to know what’s top of your list, and need your presence at our next AGM in February 2014.

CHRISTMAS GIFT MARKET

WASTE REMOVAL The Overberg District Municipality could not obtain the necessary funding for the required upgrade of the Karwyderskraal landfill site. This means that the trucking of waste from Hermanus to Gansbaai will unfortunately still continue for quite some time.

Bea Whittaker

SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER * 9am - 12pm 'STANFORD TABLE' GARDEN - on the village green side || SUPPORT LOCAL ||

P RO M OT I O N S

Prices Valid While Stocks Last. All Prices Include Vat.

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

Mon - Fri, 7:30 - 17:00 Sat, 8:00 - 14:00 Tel: (028) 341 0691 Fax: (028) 341 0413

028 3410 691

• Pokon Orchid Food 250ml R 29.95

• Bracket Wall F Hang Basket Bird R44.95

• Geranium Food 375ml R 45.95

• Hadeco Amaryllis Bulbs R49.95

• Cacti And Succulents From R6.95 • Pokon Cactus Food R29.95

• Poinsettia 15cm R49.95 • Nuetrog Sudden Impact Lawns 5kg R 68.95

• Argyranthumum Assorted 16cm R29.95

• Candle Holder R209.95

• Strawberry Pink Panda R31.95

• Bird Cage R121.95

• Bark Mulch 30dm R25.95

• Bruss Herb Double Assorted Colours R91.95 • Bruss Herb Single Assorted Colours R71.95 • Trellis 600 Green Expanding R160

• Cordyline Banksii Elec Pink Pbr R89.96 • Geranium Multibloom R31.95 • Hydrangea 15cm R45.95

1- 31 December 2013 STANFORD RIVER TALK 5

news & updates

MOVEMBER COMPETITION

Green fingers The Overberg Agri hosted the annual, much-loved 'Tuin van die Jaar/ Garden of the Year' prize-giving on 16 November.

Even in the rain, many people attended the tea and highlyanticipated announcement of winners who came from towns and villages across the Overberg.

Congratulations to Helen Brendt and Paulette Whitelaw representing Stanford, for winning the prize for the 'Garden with the most potential'. The standard was very high this year, and judges had a difficult task selecting winners. Well done to everyone who participated.

Phil Murray

Potential to shine: Paulette Whitelaw, Helen Brendt and Colin van Dalen.

Congratulations to Corinna Turner from Milnerton who often visits friends in Stanford.

Home is where the heart is Recently Susara Botha (nĂŠe De Villiers) celebrated her 95th birthday at The Stanford Table. She was accompanied by two of her daughters for morning tea and cake.

Susara, who was born in 1918, lived in the now beautifully restored twin façade grey house overlooking the common in Longmarket Street. Her mum acted as the local doctor although she said she wasn't qualified and her father farmed on what is now part of the RAKA estate. Their home had no SUSARA BOTHA running water at the time and all water had to be carried by bucket. Despite this Susara's mother grew pink geraniums on the front stoep.

Susara referred to the building now housing The Stanford Table as 'Ettie's house.'

Fifteen years ago she celebrated her 80th birthday at the Stanford Hotel with many family members. Marian Ferris

Glen Roodt and Peter Kastner both sport their retro-style moustaches in support of the Movember campaign.

Art-ist fun Thank you to all who helped to create Stanford's first Living Art Gallery in Stanford South on Saturday 2 November. Hundreds of kids were entertained, great local Rolling on the river: KykNet spent a day shooting food was served and ten murals on the Klein River with Ernie Blommaert, Jan Braai were painted on new government and Anton Goosen. houses in the street behind the rugby club. The street is beautiful with artwork on walls and attractive gardens, and is well worth visiting. Ngunie love: Leli Hoch and Lyn Prins help Three years ago, The Viva create Stanford's Living Art Gallery.

Foundation of South Africa created the world's first Living Art Gallery in Mamelodi, Tshwane (Pretoria), by transforming shack-homes into works of art, to attract tourism and business to the community. And it worked!

Viva is a non-profit organization and we believe in the wealth and talents of the local communities. Stanford battles with unemployment, drugs and young people without hope. Embracing 'Green Tourism' and Stanford as an 'Art Route Destination' is a potential solution to these problems.

Artists contributed and volunteered their time and resources in this project. They created a lasting art work to be enjoyed by residents and visitors. Regina Broenner Jog for life: Tina Louw, Sandy & Mark Jardine, Paul & from David Krut Projects ran the show this time in Stanford, with help from Wilhelm Sandra Slabbert, Andre Koekemoer and Sarah Gordon McKlein, the Stanford Community Police Forum and the Neighbourhood Watch. at Die Vlakte marathon. Congratulations to all Stanford The community is aiming for a second festival in March 2014. If you are willing to runners especially Sarah Gordon, third female with a help or sponsor more living art projects, contact Sven Lager at sven.lager@gmail.com time of 3h34 over 42.2km. or phone Regina Broenner on 076 375 7116. Sven Lager STANFORD RIVER TALK 6

The rains came down and the floods came up!

On 14 and 15 November, people across the Overberg and Cape Peninsula focused on the weatherman and the brewing storm which threatened to come bucketing down. Not much could be done to prepare for the rivers that would swell and resculpt mountainsides, valleys, farms, houses, gardens and towns.

Roads were closed, some houses wallowed in the mire, storm water drains choked, even a hospital had to be evacuated in Somerset West. Overnight, much of the area became a waterworld. In Stanford, islands formed as one half of the town got cut off by the river, some farmers were trapped as their very land washed away, people in the Stanford South and village floundered to save their drenched belongings and to stay warm, and guests expecting to come to parties and weddings never made it through to the village from Cape Town.

0m

20

m-2

d Hatman.

Your ferry is waiting: Fre

ys da

ingfontein.

Business as usual: Spr

Deeply dippy: Kobus Myburgh.

Splish slpash: Ros Nale.

d Hatman.

Just a spot of rain: Fre

water‘: Tim Hague.

‘Bridge over troubled

pool? Andrew Herriot.

Where's my swimming

ERWIN'S Traditional German Meat Products produced locally from only the best cuts of meat and spices Products available at our local Spar Cell 082 441 5533 • www.erwins.co.za

Slabbert.

The school run: Paul STANFORD RIVER TALK 7

business talk TOURISM MATTERS A ATTENTION A ALL STANFORDIANS & VISITORS HOLIDAY HELPLINE: 028 384 8328. After hours 028 313 8111

Book Cottage in Stanford!

We are happy to anounce that a branch of The Book Cottage is opening in Stanford. This independent little bookshop was opened 17 years ago, by the late Sue McNaught of Stanford, and the branch is on the corner of Short Market Street and Victoria Street.

If we don’t have what you are looking for, we will do our utmost to get it for you.This quaint bookshop is fun and has something for everyone. Nikki Swanepoel, 072 436 1497

STANFORD PROPERTY SALES Six properties in Stanford were issued with a sales certificate in November. These figures include name transfers. er SOAPBOX By Martin Ranger

All I want for or Christmas Recently a family member asked what I would like for Christmas. I was tempted to respond: ‘To be as clever as Stephen Fry, handsome as Roger Federer and rich as Paul McCartney.’ Later, whilst day-dreaming about the benefits of that fantasy, I began creating my equally unrealistic Christmas stocking wish list: 1. A PVR that can fast-forward live television so I don’t have to watch any celebrity trivia.

2. An overnight cream that removes warts, spots and blemishes painlessly within hours.

3. An electronic sign for the back of my car from which I can send messages to the car behind.

4. A Mr Spock Fix-o-matic ray gun, a shot from which cures any household DIY problem.

5. An email programme that automatically sends the entire contents of the Kindle free library to spam addresses.

6. A locator attached to my key-ring that responds audibly to: ‘Where are my b****y car keys!’; ‘Who used the car last?’ and ‘ If I knew when I last had them they wouldn’t be lost, would they?’

7. A packet of grass seed that guarantees to grow to a maximum of 2 cms and requires watering only twice a year.

8. A canine pill that replaces all normal doggie smells with the scent of peppermint.

9. The skill to compose just one song that will become a classic to be sung for generations.

10. A new hip. This one is guaranteed; in fact I should be recovering from the operation as you read this.

No mention of peace amongst men or a cure for all ills, I hear you say. No, that’s because I realise that although he is clearly super-human, even Father Christmas has his limits.

However you judge the successes of your Christmas, have a great one. And if you bump into Roger Federer and he says he’d rather be playing chess than tennis maybe you should ask how his operation went.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 8

Networking and Co-operation Stanford Tourism is the official tourism office for accommodation, attractions, events and tours in Stanford. Stanford Tourism is by members and for members, so it is important to be a member of your local Stanford Tourism Office. Stanford Tourism falls under Cape Whale Coast Tourism which includes the Stanford, Hermanus, Gansbaai and Hangklip-Kleinmond Tourism Offices.

Our objective is to network with our partners and develop Stanford as a hub where visitors can stay and visit, and a platform from which to explore the Overberg. There are many unique products in the area including Great White Shark Cage Diving, exceptional whale viewing, the Tip of Africa, and part of the World Heritage Cape Floral System, world class wines, and restaurants. That’s not to mention its greatest asset – its hospitality and people.

We have rewritten the Stanfordinfo/Tourism website (www.stanfordinfo. co.za) and introduced social media platforms, initiating a database of visitors/members, and regular newsletters. Please review your listings and ensure we have up-to-date information and remember to share your news, events and images with us.

Social Media is all about sharing and co-operation, and we can achieve so much more together. We enlisted the assistance of Smart Octopus as your website and social media strategists. They come with a proven and successful track record in Tourism. Included in membership fees of Stanford Tourism, are the services of Smart Octopus to load any of your required Social Media or newsletter content onto the tourism site. If you are having any special events, please supply and share information with us and we will assist you in getting the information distributed.

'Like' Stanford Tourism on Facebook and share content!

Together we can achieve so much more! Stanford Tourism Commitee Old Boar FINANCE MATTERS

Blind leading the blind Since starting this column about three years ago, I have harped on about a person’s responsibility to look after their own money and investments.

Business Day recently reported on a man who invested R20 000 with a life assurance company to provide for his daughter’s university education. After twelve years he was shocked to find that his investment was worth only R19 000. Why? Mainly because he paid no attention to it. Business Day summed it up as follows: ‘This is a story with a warning: expecting a fund manager to care for investments as though they are his own is a pipe dream. Nothing derogates from an investor’s primary responsibility to look after himself. No one else will ever do it as well. Simply assuming a fund manager will do the job may come with an unwelcome price tag.’

Recently I came across Dylan Grice's article 'The Language of Inflation' (Edelweiss Journal, November 2013) in which he wrote: ‘Regular readers of our irregular publication will be aware of our thoughts on inflation, but for those who are not we would summarize them thus: inflation is not measurable. We can summarize our views on money with similar succinctness: it is poorly understood. And as for the economy, we know only this: it is a complex system. From these observations can be derived a straightforward corollary on economic policy makers: trying to control a variable you can’t measure (inflation) with a tool you don’t fully understand (money) in a complex system with hidden, unobservable and non-linear interrelationships (the economy) is a guaranteed way to ensure that most things which happen weren’t supposed to happen.’

So there we have it – doomed if you do; doomed if you don’t. We are in the hands of people who do not know what they are doing, not only in our country, but worldwide. We are truly ‘the meat in the sandwich’.

On that happy note I wish everyone a very merry festive season and good luck with your finances in 2014!

“We wish all our client’s and newcomers to Stanford the very best of

Season’s greetings.”

STANFORD BRIDGE DEVELOPMENT

R1.775 million

STANFORD

R9.61 million

A 34 unit boutique development on the banks of the Klein River. 3 Designs to choice from. Prices ranging from R1.775 million plus VAT.

100 hectare farm nestled at the foot of the Akkidisberg mountains, with waterfalls, fynbos and olive grove.

Web Access STA1129867

STA1153873

STANFORD

R3.8 million

STANFORD

R2.25 million

STANFORD

R2.495 million

STANFORD

R835 000

Gracious family home on 1983 m2. Lovely uninterrupted views of the mountains.

On the Lagoon with mountain backdrop and its own jetty. 10 mins outside Stanford in a gated complex.

An elevated oasis close to the river, 2 Bedrooms en suite operate as a B&B. Single garage with bathroom. Flatlet potential.

Wine “Farm” – 480 Pinot Noir vines. Lei water, fully fenced with “Werf Muur”.

Approved house plans at no extra cost.

Web Access STA1135115

Web Access STA1152728

Web Access STA1139871

Web Access STA1144388

Gold Club Agent Jill Smith 083 700 4103, Office 028 341 0708 jillian.smith@pamgolding.co.za

www.pamgolding.co.za/stanford STANFORD RIVER TALK 9

school talk

Okkie Smuts

Funimfundo Pre-school

KOSHUIS PREFEKTE 2014

GRADUATION EVENING

Ambition for the futures of these children runs high in the community evident in the graduation celebrations for the 16 Grade R learners from Funimfundo Pre-school. The graduates were all impeccably dressed in their new school uniforms for 2014 and were The graduate: supported by their little school mates in bright Sisipho Dyasophi. yellow Funimfundo T-shirts.

The headmistress, Nonkosinathi Apleni, asked each child what he wanted to be when he grew up, and the 5-year-olds shared their plans to become nurses, doctors, soldiers, policemen, social workers, and teachers. The children in Grade R sang beautifully together as a choir and then the mothers, in traditional isiXhosa dress, sang and danced to pay tribute and give thanks to the headmistress.

The cheering audience’s support was heartwarming and the pride of the parents was palpable. Charismatic Master of Ceremonies, Aron Gcotyelwata, kept the pace upbeat and thanked the parents for their foresight and sacrifices for their children’s education. He encouraged all in the community to do the same.

The children danced and sang between speeches of thanks by the headmistress and the Community Leader.

After the Grade Rs dressed in their graduation gowns with gold trim, complete with mortar boards, they each received a certificate and a school backpack for next year.

We encourage people to visit this oasis of caring. Thank you to the local businesses and generous donors who assist in keeping this special school running and preparing children for our education system.

Thank you, especially, Liz Hochfelden for donating her time to make Funimfundo’s very own graduation outfits!

Lyn Prins

Zander Anderson (Hoofseun) STUDENT LEADERS 2014

Coenette Goss (Hoofdogter)

Lee-Ann Prins Vuyo Mbangeni

Mitchell Temmers

(Top row from left) Gregory Muller, JoAnne Joseph, Griffin Foxcroft, Kayla Fourie, Cathleen Blomerus, (middle row from left) Gian Bester, Sonja Louw –hoofdogter, Jamal Lehman, Amy Hattingh – onder-hoofdogter, Coenette Goss, (bottom row from left) Aiden Arendse – onder-hoofseun and Zander Anderson – hoofseun.

ACADEMIC COLOURS

Mar-Lize Potgieter 86,6%, grade 4

Griffin Foxcroft 80,7%, grade 5

Amy Hattingh 85,6%, grade 6

Gabriel Stratford 86,2%, grade 7

Visit our wholesale fynbos and tree nursery at Grootbos for a wide variety of local indigenous waterwise plants at the best prices

Sportvrou 2013: Andrea Philander Suid Boland Netbal

Sportvrou 2013: Kelley May SuidBoland Atletiek

Chris en Amanda Geldenhuys trofee: Anrika Brand

in the Cape.

Media prefekte 2014: Marrion Pretorius Carla Germishuys Mar-Lizé Potgieter Johanné Bester

Open: Monday – Friday: 8h30 – 16h30

We also do landscaping Contact Susan 082 436 4730 or Sharlene 072 143 8894 STANFORD RIVER TALK 10

Sportman 2013: Marco Muller Suid-Boland Rugby

Sportman 2013: Joshwill Dreyer SuidBoland Atletiek

Get to know your village

TEEN TALK

Don't stop believing

It is almost that time of year.

Everyone is rushing to get gifts for family and friends and planning where they will be going or whether they are staying here. Soon some people will be looking for Christmas trees and setting them up. Then there are dinners to be planned, invitations to be sent out, and of course for many, family to welcome.

This is a very special Christmas for me because this is my first Christmas as a teenager. I have always been worried about becoming a teenager, afraid that I might be one of those moody ones, always shouting at my mom and little sister, and wearing makeup. But I can tell you that although I do shout at my little sister (almost every big sister does), I don’t shout at my mom, I don’t wear makeup and I am me. Good old me, just like when I was 12. I am saying this to tell all of those 13-yearolds who don’t want to be one of those unpleasant teens, that you must not grow up too fast. I am 13 and I still play with Barbies and I still play make believe. I know many 13-year-olds and I don’t always seem to fit in with them; most of my friends are 9 to 12 years old. But I don’t mind; they are all fun.

So Merry Christmas to all those who are young at heart. Keep believing in magic.

Ruby Walne

wine talk

Ho! Ho! Ho! and Ho Hum

By Tania Weich

Are you feeling tired, defeated and worn out by the wear of the year gone by? No, dear reader, this is not advertorial copy for pick-meuppers nor happy pills. This is your wine columnist reminding you to pat yourself on your back for surviving the challenges of 2013.

I received an email from a friend recently outlining a particularly difficult day she was experiencing. She signed off with a resigned, 'Ho Hum! What must be, must be'. Yet, the sane among us realise that the insanity of the silly season is yet to come. You know the drill… reckless spending, never-ending entertaining, fun in the sun being synonymous with holiday season family feuds.

There is, however, a bright side to the pealing of Christmas bells. It is the sound of gratitude - for where we’ve been and where we are now.

'Ho Hum', I would like to believe, is the modern take on the Sanskrit mantra So Hum repeated during times of meditation, which means 'I am'. Therefore, inward reflection for me is the shield from the chaos of the holidays. Of course adding wine to the equation simply elevates that necessary ingredient of good cheer, right?

I am willing to bet that it is the cheerful sled driver, bedecked in red, sailing through our skies who first discovered the value of introspection mixed with wine. 'Ho! Ho! Ho!' he yells as he races to meet his deadline before Christmas morn. Surely in between he exclaims, 'Mmm! Mmm!' as he sips at his favourite tipple to stay on top of form.

Have you ever wondered how Rudolph acquired his red nose?

Ho Hum, Ho Mmm. Whatever your choice: meditation or fermented grape juice, may you enjoy a happy, peaceful holiday.

This is the second interview in an ongoing series on getting to know the local folk of Stanford.

Santie Reynolds is our local postmistress who sits in her office, peeking out through her porthole. She delights us with brown paper packages from afar, envelopes and postcards from family and friends, and sometimes hands over the manilla misery of an unexpected bill.

Santie has been a part of the Stanford family since the seventies.

How long has your family lived in Stanford? I moved here 34 years ago. I started and finished high school in Hermanus. I had my children here and they all grew up in Stanford – one still lives here.

How do you describe Stanford to your out-of-town friends and family? This is the best place to bring up your kids. It is peaceful and most of the people are nice. It is close enough to the shops, and Cape Town, and the beach but is not as crowded as Hermanus nor Gansbaai.

Where is your favourite place in Stanford? It used to be down by the river but there are too many houses there now. Bagatelle Farm, where I currently live, is my favourite place to be as I can sit and watch the town from afar.

Has Stanford changed much over the years? Yes, very much.

When I moved here 34 years ago, Stanford was an Afrikaansspeaking town, and there was only one black man in the area, whom I knew of.

WHAT'S ON •ONTMOET DIE SKRYWERS, 6 Desember, 10:30, R30.

Luister wat die denkproses is agter Irma Joubert se boek Tolbos en Chanette Paul se boek Siende Blind.

Nikki Swanepoel, 072 436 1497 • STANFORD’S ANGEL EVENING, 6 December, Friday from 7:30, Enjoy the Christmas Magic at Angel Cottage 7 Morton Street, Adults R20, Children under 12 FREE. Bring picnic, drinks & glasses.

Proceeds to Stanford Animal Welfare Society. * CHRISTMAS GIFT MARKET, 7 December, Saturday 9 –12 at Stanford Table Garden on Village Green side. See page 5.

• STANFORDINFO CHRISTMAS STREET MARKET, 16 December 10am-6pm. Queen Victoria Street. Christmas Tree decorations by the kids of Stanford in the Village Square. See page 16.

• MUSIC ON THE LAWN, Sunday 15 December from 18:00.

Music from Abba to Zappa. Entrance R10. Great food on sale.

Bring drinks, glasses, rugs, chairs, swimming costume. Corgi Park, Riverside Lane. Proceeds to Stanford Animal Welfare.

•STANFORD SUNSET MARKET, Friday 20 December, Village Green, 6 – 8 pm.

• ON BROADWAY, 17,18,19 December, bookings at sarah.james@global.co.za or 028 341 0189.

• SUNDAY SUMMER SHOWS - GRIERSON VAN GEND. Sunday 22 December, 17:30. Under the willow tree @ The Stanford Hotel Courtyard. Cash Bar & something delicious will be served. reservations@stanfordvillage.co.za 082 7811 704. Tickets R60 at The Stanford Bottle Store.

• STANFORD 6'S, 26 December, Stanford Village Green.

• THE DIXIE PRICKS, Saturday 28 December, 8pm @ The Speakeasy at The Stanford Hotel. Tickets R60 at The Stanford Bottle Store or at the door. reservations@stanfordvillage.co.za STANFORD STANFO STA NFORD RD RIVER RIVER TALK TAL 11 1

Turn up the Volume December 2013 marks the one hundredth edition of Stanford's own monthly newspaper, Stanford River Talk. Started in 2005 by Kerri Brokenshaw who was assisted by Terry Haw, River Talk (as it is affectionately called) has kept locals and visitors up-to-date with local current events and trends through articles and photographs generously sent in by villagers. Ownership changed in 2008 when Michelle Hardie and Nic Bednall took over the reigns, assisted by Sandra Slabbert. Sandra then became a joint owner, and most recently, Phil Murray joined Team River Talk as editor. This publication is still being supported by local advertisers and readers, and many visitors who snap up a copies in order to immerse themselves in Stanford life.

Thank you Stanford.

February 2005, volume 1

December 2008, volume 42

February 2009, volume 43

Picnic time

The Picnic Shed is open daily from 11:00 serving gourmet picnics, cheese platters, local wines, kids picnics, tea, coffee & cakes.

NEW: Create your own picnic from the delicious selection of goodies in the new Picnic Deli!

STANFORD RIVER TALK

7 km outside Stanford on Route 326 028 341 0693 | www.kleinrivercheese.co.za VISIT OUR NEW FACEBOOK PAGE 12

Tented Suspended Four-Poster +(27) 028 341 0209 • info@kiwinet.co.za • www.kiwinet.co.za 2 Queen Victoria Street STANFORD 7210

We have been blessed to have a number of sales recently and have decided to give back to our community in the form of Bags of Love.

Thank you to all our buyers and sellers for making this possible.

E DAT

AN LE M

SO

Many of the poorest of the poor, children, the sick and the elderly rely on the five soup kitchens in Stanford for nutrition but the good folk who run the soup kitchens also need a break so they are closed for two weeks over Christmas time. This is why the Bags of Love are so very necessary, not only to feed the needy at this critical time but also by bringing a small measure of cheer into their lives.

Wishing all Stanfordians & our visitors a Happy & Peaceful Festive Season and a Prosperous 2014!

R1295 000 This renovated 3 bedroom family home has spacious living areas spilling out onto a large vine covered stoep. Tucked away at the end of a panhandle.

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

coffee corner Morton Square, Stanford, 028 3410 034

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

Stanford’s Complete Christmas Horse Show In hand classes, In hand & riding classes Bar el racing Riding skills demonst ations Crazy Christ as Fancy Dress Class Utilit dog display Ref eshments available

14 December, Stanford Market Square Now serving light lunches

loads of f n!

Ent ies @ Stanfordinfo Maureen, 082 4503970 maureen@sy ingast d.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 13

Stanford Eateries

Stanford is well-known for its eateries – some are old, some are new, some serve traditional South African fare and some cater to more al fresco tastes. This is our second occasion to run food reviews from local folks who love eating out and supporting local businesses.

If you would like to submit a review on your favourite local restaurant, please email the editor.

THE TASTING ROOM @ STANFORD HILLS

GRAZE SLOW FOOD CAFE

The approach to this vineyard eatery is through a working farmyard. It is an ideal place for young families since the kids and dogs can run freely and parents know they can have a fairly uninterrupted meal in an authentic setting.

There is an adventure playground and canoes on the dam for kids to enjoy.

The Tasting Room started life as its title suggests, serving Jacksons and Stanford Hills wines, before employing Chef Bridget Bartleman to excite all with her delectable combinations of food. The Brie and Bacon Arancini with cranberry drizzle or the popular ‘Build your own Mezze’ with a dozen or so different taste choices satisfies the adults while a kids menu caters to small ones.

At the foothills of the Klein River mountains the view is glorious with a tapestry of fields in the distance.

Wine tasting aside, stay and enjoy the Tasting Room experience.

Cathie Hornby

I have visited many good restaurants where the food might be excellent but the owners and staff have about as much personality as several large lumps of wet, grey papier mache. This is where Graze Slow Food Cafe gets it absolutely right. Tabby and Alex, and their dedicated staff, take the time to connect in a warm and very Stanfordian way with their customers.

Tabby conjures up wonderful dishes, using fresh local produce and mostly grown or harvested by her and Alex. Don't miss the everpopular and very jovial Fresh Produce markets every Wednesday morning.

I'm a regular breakfaster on the stoep, awash with sunshine and shiny, friendly faces, so I can rave about the Duck Egg Omelettes (so flavoursome one wants to run out into Queen Victoria Street and do a jig of delight) and the Eggs Benedict with a delicious twist (served on a rosti). Every bite is memorable.

But what sets Graze apart is the banter, the humour, the warm welcomes and farewells. I am made to feel at home. Everything is easygoing, relaxed and very, very Stanfordian. As any local will know, Jero Revett and Catch Caccivio, the original owners, were always going to be a hard act to follow. Alex and Tabby have seemingly effortlessly succeeded. And they have added their own original and very human ingredient. Just like the marvellous dishes they serve.

Fred Hatman

BELLAVISTA PANORAMA RESTAURANT

Experience the beautiful Klein River on our boat fitted with Weber-braai and toilet with a view.

Treat your family, friends or clients to an unforgettable river cruise.

R100 / person for 2-3 hours.

Also canoes & kayaks to hire For bookings and info contact Ernie 083 310 0952 • ernieb@netactive.co.za http://riverratstanford.wordpress.com/ STANFORD RIVER TALK 14

The drive up the impressive tarred entrance road to the panoramic terrace and restaurant at Bellavista, just off the R43, is SO worth the effort.

Gazing at the view across Walker Bay and the lovely gardens, one is enchanted. A sunny day on the terrace with a glass of chilled white wine and life is good. That said I was disappointed that we two were the only visitors for mid-week lunch.

The menu has not changed much over the years. The old favourites like game, steak and fish are still there along with a good selection of starters.

Unashamedly aimed at the European tourist market, a main course will set you back around R175 per head, starters around R60 and desserts R68.

My German friend tucked into the Roasted Kudu Loin which she declared tender if a little over-done. I decided on two starter portions.

The deep fried Camembert cheese was good, but disappointingly, it was not accompanied by Melba toast as a side dish. This was followed by an open ravioli of minced lamb in a sweet tomato sauce.

Very tasty!

We resisted the desserts and I regretted not having the Crème Brûlée later when the sweet tooth kicked in.

It’s a great experience that many locals haven’t found yet. The evening setting is more formal and romantic.

Pamela Trevelyan

MOUTHPIECE

COLOUR MIRRORS

Water water water…

We paddled during Flocktober but little did we know what was coming next; torrents of water many of us have not previously experienced. We were all so lucky to have only to deal with wet houses, ruined farmland and challenged livelihoods.

But this got me thinking. Water: what’s it all about? It is something we take for granted but, heck, is it a problem when we don’t have enough of it, or even when we have too much!

So let’s talk some more about water.

Too little water? It may feel like this is a common occurrence but let’s face it – most people usually have some kind of prior notice and can fill up some saucepans, etc. Generally it just flows from our taps. Beautiful and clear and safe and it just keeps flowing whenever we want it.

But our days would change dramatically if this stopped. Toilets are just not nice without running water. Many of our garden plants will curl up and die. And then there’s the smell. Our noses are used to clean human beings. But unwashed sweat and unwashed clothes – those are stomach-churning smells. Worse still, just a minor change could mean walking kilometres to carry water to our homes.

Too much water? We are talking natural disasters – nature in action. We are talking torrents and walls of water washing through and over our lives. Again this could happen here tomorrow or in fifty years time. Do we care? Not now but we would if it happened to us.

I did a little research. Believe it or not, water shortages are our main challenge.

So I checked out what I, as a responsible citizen, should do. Brushing my teeth without the tap running is one. Planting water-wise plants is another.

I’m grateful this time those torrents stayed away from my front door (sorry guys who found it lapping by your slippers). I’m grateful I don’t smell too bad for now – my new perfume helps. Cath Croxton

A colouring competition Melissie Jolly wraps up the year of Colour Therapy with a light-hearted competition.

A Rainbow

Red is for life, and survival through strife.

Orange is joy and abundance, oh boy!

Yellow is bright, analytical and right.

Green is your space your heart’s steady pace.

Violet is service the colour spectrum’s nurse.

Magenta is divine love, sent down from above.

A colour is missing, tell us which hue, If you answer first the winner is you!

Please email your answers to colourmirrors@orcawireless.co.za.

OUT OF THE HAT

10 Holiday survival tips for Stanford 1. Just smile and wave.

2. Just smile and wave some more.

3. Keep smiling and waving for the entire school holiday. Only then may you revert to being grumpy, gossipy and snide, moaning about potholes, dust, noisy frogs and your neighbours, engaging in competitive oneupmanship (especially if you're a business owner) and tittering through your fingers at flash Capetonians with overgroomed beards, expensive designer frocks and strange little family stickers on the rear windows of their Putco bus-sized SUVs. 4. Please remember to continue to smile and wave while holding all thoughts of envy and wicked retribution at bay. And do restrain yourself from sticking those little white sticklike figure stickers on your rear windows in the misguided belief it will provide you with instant trendy status.

5. Do not hesitate to take the law into your own hands and make a citizen's arrest, or confiscate any vehicle with a CA numberplate which travels through our village at more than 20kph, putting at risk our freerange children and dogs. If any of those vehicles should bear THOSE STICKERS on the back, push them into the river.

6. Do not, under any circumstances, mention ‘the fl**ds‘ to any visitors, especially if they have slipped under your front door an offer of R5 million to buy your quaint Stanford home (complete with hastily disguised flood damage).

7. Do act as a ‘tourism ambassador‘ for our uniquely wondrous village at all times and show off Stanford in the best possible light. If only to smile and wave (and point out places of interest) in an even more manic manner than you otherwise might. And, of course, to recommend to visitors the bars and restaurants which belong to your friends as opposed to those run by people with whom you have viciously crossed swords in the past.

8. If any bright-spark out-of-towner should be so daring as to suggest that Stanford should have a traffic circle at the entrance to the village, a massive tree-house in which children can be entertained under adult supervision while parents eat, drink and make jolly, more trees lining Queen Victoria Street, and really good movies projected onto a large screen on the village green while families picnic on the grass, please do adopt a blank look. This may subtly hint at the fact

that they could not possibly have a clue what would be good for OUR village, and then smile and wave enigmatically as you execute a hasty getaway.

9. Please uphold our proud tradition of keeping certain information highly secret.

Such as The River. Most visitors are so busy eating, drinking, and shouting at their bored kids fiddling with their smartphones and Instagramming pictures of Penny's ‘Mannequin Window‘ that they will never find it on their own. The fact that Die Kelders is far better for checking out whales than Hermanus, the existence of Die Plaat (can you imagine it turning overnight into Camps Bay?) and the fact that it is not advisable to get into deep and meaningful conversations with people hanging around the bottle store and the ATM on Friday afternoons, are top secrets.

10. Do not forget, SMILE AND WAVE. And, for crying in a bucket, don't tell any out-oftowner reading this edition of our wonderful Stanford River Talk that this column was a total thumb-suck.

Lekker vakansie, almal!

Fred Hatman www.fredhatman.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 15

Happy holidays!

Springfontein Cellar Open Daily For Wine Tasting and Sales.

Closed on 25 December ‘13 and 1 January ‘14

Springfontein Eats 24 - 28 December ’13 - Lunch & Dinner 29 December ’13 - Lunch only Closed on Mondays

New Year’s Eve Menu @ R1000.00 per person, 31 December 2013 from 7pm to 11pm Inclusive, Food & Wine Pairing, Hot and Cold Beverages.

028 3410 651 • www.springfontein.co.za • info@springfontein.co.za • Wortelgat Road, Stanford

STANFORD RIVER TALK 16

art & culture SHANTARAM by Gregory David Roberts

BOOK REVIEW

Pulsing with energy and highjinx Written in 2003, this book tells the incredible story of Lindsay Ford, who escapes from a prison in Australia. He becomes a ‘most wanted person’ and flees to a new life in India.

The story is based on the author’s own life, and however unbelievable in places, is largely factual. His adventures include living in the slums of Mumbai where he sets up an informal medical clinic, starring in a Bollywood movie, working as a passport falsifier before smuggling weapons in Afghanistan and being brutalised in an Indian jail. He also falls deeply in love and makes some dubious but wonderfully colourful friends. The writing is taut but mesmerising; the story disturbing and yet incredibly beautiful; the prose so vivid that one can literally smell the fragrant curries and feel the hot decay in the slums. The narrative is lyrical and philosophical, and the multi-faceted plot turns the pages by itself. Shantaram holds its own against most of the best novels of the past fifty years.

Don’t miss this one for some trippy and utterly gratifying holiday reading.

Karen McKee

My Year of Birds – a colouring book gift This book has been compiled in support of Funimfundo Pre-School and consists of 12 bird pictures to colour. There is a diary page per month to record ‘Birds I saw’ and a simple song to learn which teaches bird names.

It is a perfect Christmas stocking gift.

Please call Lyn Mossop – 082 557 4477 or e-mail lyn@mistys.co.za to place an order, or purchase at Stanfordinfo or Mokoro.

PLAYING BY EAR

By Andrew Herriot

Never one to follow the crowd Janis Ian (American, b 1951)

The Speakeasy Live music nights at The Speakeasy began one and a half years ago, when Lucy Kruger performed at the opening of what was set to be a function venue. The response was wonderful and has led to uniquely talented musicians lining up to play in this cosy venue. The Speakeasy is a small venue, so musicians like Jonathan Velthuysen Thaya Bedford and Jonathan Velthuysen. are best appreciated in the intimate setting.

Jonathan recently held his audience captivated on 23 November with his deeply introspective musical artistry, accompanied by multiinstrumentalist Alan Day. They brought a collection of curiously beautiful instruments with them, including acoustic and electric guitars, a lap slide guitar and a saw, which Jonathan played with a bow. The Speakeasy has announced their summertime Stanford Sunset Shows, which will be held outdoors in the courtyard. Thaya Bedford, www.stanfordvillage.co.za

In the mid-seventies during my residency in Maseru, an associate in our local Am-Dram group introduced me to Janis Ian, informing me that 'she is different, has something to say and sing, and writes words and music with a purpose and meaning'. In her timeless hit, Janis Ian remembered being ‘Seventeen’ and sang, ‘Love was meant for beauty queens and high school girls with clear skinned smiles who married young and then retired’. The message is clear.

Ian claimed, at that age, to dress weirdly and not attractively. She had dark curly hair, (‘ravaged faces lacking in social graces’) and, as a folk singer, she was concurrently developing her interests in the Civil Rights Movement. She was strongly influenced by Joan Baez and Odetta who in turn influenced other cognoscenti in the folk era such as Dylan, Staples and Joplin. I just had to listen to this youngster who for the past ten years had been whipping up imaginative lyrics and composing music. I am not a devotee of ‘strum, strum, mumble, mumble’ (apologies for my irreverence), but I was immediately struck by her disarmingly straight-forward vocal delivery and perfect tone while listening to the 33⅓ vinyl version on my Philips turntable.

Imagine, in 1976 she defeated the current female icons with their hits; Helen Reddy (I am Woman), Judy Collins (Send in the Clowns), Linda Ronstadt (You’re No Good), Olivia Newton-John (Jolene) to win the Grammy for that year. In the sixties, as a very young sixteen year old, she was shocking mature audiences with the uneasy words and music of Society’s Child, a contentious theme about interracial relationships that propelled her into public consciousness.

Today at sixty-two she is regal and gracious, still strumming but not mumbling. Her dark curly hair is now white as the driven snow. Her voice has a maturity that only age can successfully guarantee. She won the award for Best Spoken Word Album for her autobiography 'Society’s Child' in 2013 in a contest with pre-eminent nominees such as Bill Clinton, Ellen DeGeneres and Rachel Maddow. In her acceptance speech she opened with the brave words, 'There’s gotta be a joke here where an ex-President and three lesbians meet in a bar.' In 1993, the once married (to a guy) Janis Ian married her friend Patricia Snyder, a lawyer, in Canada, where that union is legal (the guy gave Janis a semi-automatic rifle for her birthday and not flowers!). You would do well to give Janis’ album as a special birthday or Christmas present to someone you love. Please listen to Restless Eyes when you browse through the CDs – it is simply sublime.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 17

FROG MYTHS AND BELIEFS

Warts and all

This is Naas Terblanche's fourth article in a series in which he explores some strange and delightful frog myths.

The father of taxonomical classification of animals and plants, Carolus Linnaeus, was a brilliant scientist but disliked frogs intensely. This clouded his outlook on frogs. This is his description of frogs in which he pulled out all the stops to give vent to his dislike.

'These foul and loathsome animals are abhorrent because of their cold body, pale colour, cartilaginous skeleton, filthy skin, fierce aspect, calculating eye, offensive smell, harsh voice, squalid habitation, and terrible venom: and so the Creator has not exerted his powers to make many of them.'

In fact, Linnaeus got it wrong in just about every count. Frogs have bony skeletons, do not have 'a calculating eye', are not venomous and are absolutely harmless. In contrast to the European species that Linnaeus knew, many are colourful like our local Arum Lily Frog, not even to mention the beautiful colourful frogs found in South American rain forests. Being far more primitive than for instance birds, frog sounds are obviously less complex, but many are quite melodious. When listening to a recording of the call of our local Cape Sand Frog, many people comment that they ‘thought that was a bird calling.‘ Most important of all, frogs do not prefer a squalid habitation. Frogs need healthy water for survival.

Even on the number of species being few, Linnaeus was wrong. The number of frog species now exceeds all mammal species and new ones are discovered every year. At the last count the number of mammal species was about 5500 and the number of frog species about 6500. (As far as I could find out the total number of bird species worldwide is about 10 000) Frogs being depicted as bringers of bad luck probably originated when people feared frogs and believed that frogs are reincarnations of evil demons. On the other hand many cultures in the East believe that frogs are bringers of good luck and wealth. They do not fear or despise frogs but rather like them and even revere them.

By Stanford veterinarian, Dr Olga Koorts

vet talk

How much is that doggy in the window?

Have you made your Christmas gift list? If you’ve thought about giving somebody a kitten or puppy, please consider the following before doing so.

Firstly, bear in mind the suitability of a pet and specifically its breed. Different breeds of dogs and cats have very different personalities and requirements. Border collies and Huskies are so cute as puppies but are the breeds most often being passed on when they are older because owners just cannot cope with their demand for constant stimulation. A lot of dogs should not be kept in small yards. Big dogs need strong handlers. Longhaired cats need daily grooming. Rehoming an adult dog or cat is not only heartbreaking but often very difficult. Do some research first!

Secondly, consider the responsibilities involved in owning a pet.

They deserve the best. This includes a good diet, regular worm and flea treatment, sterilisation and grooming. What happens when they need to be treated by a vet? Will the new owner be able to afford these expenses? People often seem to acquire a new fluffy family member without thinking about these costs. Face it – owning a pet is going to cost you some money at some stage.

It is no good blaming vets for being expensive or the local animal welfare for not being able to help out. Only get or give a new kitty or pup if you are sure that its needs, financially and otherwise, will be met.

Few things are as precious as the relationship we have with our pets. If you know you have the right one for the right person, please go ahead: give the gift that truly keeps on giving.

Bridge – 5 card majors “Written by your everyday bridge player for everyday bridge players” Do you play bridge? Do you know someone who plays bridge? Now is your chance to purchase the perfect Xmas present. Written and published by a local bridge player.

Cost: R195.00 direct from the author.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Tordis Bassingthwaighte b16@hermanus.co.za • 028 313 2345 • 072 320 1869 STANFORD RIVER TALK 18

ROTARY STANFORD 2013 This has been a busy year for Rotary Stanford. This serves as a summary of a number of our 2013 projects. Not every project can be mentioned here but full information can be obtained by contacting Stephen (084 705 6719) or Ansie (082 320 0982). Please let us know if you would like to get involved.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT Lidia Barends’ wish for a new fold-up wheelchair came true after Rotary was alerted to her plight and Bea Whittaker started a fundraising campaign to enable purchase of the chair within a month. Without generous community donations, this would not have been possible.

In an ongoing soup kitchen project, Rotary now supports five soup kitchens that serve 200 – 320 disadvantaged members of the community at the following feeding points – Anchor Ministries (where children, the elderly and others who are in need are served); Pastor Claassen who delivers nourishing soup to 40 elderly members of the community who cannot walk to soup kitchens themselves, and 15 children who come to his house; Jenny October and her Family in Focus group who serve children twice a week from two different points; and the Rainbow Trust which is in the process of setting up not only a feeding point but a small bakery at Die Kop. We hope that our new collection box at Spar (to the left of the exit door, marked with the Rotary International logo) will continue provide much needed ingredients for the various soup kitchens. We are in awe of the generous support received from our community.

Bags of Love fill the gaps while the soup volunteers take leave to be with their families until after the New Year. Lana Coates is in charge of this excellently run project which has been very generously supported by our community. We have already passed the halfway mark of our 250 bag target.

As part of the Winter Warmth project of providing blankets to those in need, we have included jerseys and fleeces for disadvantaged one- to five-year-olds. Blankets were also handed out to children, the elderly and disabled persons. This winter has been the wettest for many years and so the calls for assistance increased, but thanks to the support we received from the Stanford community through donations and 'in-kind gifts', we were able to assist where genuine needs existed.

Rotary is a proud sponsor of Vuka Engergy Savings’ 110% Green Initiative project, mostly at De Kop, where Elma Hunter and her helpers have undertaken to show the inhabitants of all 70 shacks how to cook using energy efficient methods.

The need for a youth centre in the village which can cater for all young people is still the most critical project for Rotary. Such a centre will provide the younger generation with a place to study and have social interaction, as well having access to various support services. It could also be a permanent venue for the Stanford Creative Works project as well as for adult education and other community matters. Rotary Stanford is looking for suitable premises and once land has been identified, will start fundraising for the building.

A group of 8 Serve a Village volunteers from all over the USA came to Stanford in May 2013 to assist with various projects in the village - this is the second visit of SAV to the village and they were involved in handing out hand crafted blankets so expectant mothers; working in soup kitchens; doing ladies' hair at Volvertroue; worked in garden at Funimfundo; helped enlarge the vegetable garden at Okkie Smuts Koshuis; dipped dogs with Animal Welfare; and accompanied the Stanford Clinic home based care workers to visit the eldery. Their action packed visit was concluded with an energetic (some times hilarious) game with the Young Tiger soccer team at the soccer field in Stanford South and was considered as one of the high lights of their visits, together with the traditional Xhosa meal that was perpared for them at Die Kop.

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT Three years ago Rotary started a ‘school starter pack’ project. Underprivileged children starting ‘big school’ at the various primary schools in our village received ‘starter packs’ containing the correct equipment for Grade 1. In 2013, around R7 500 was spent on stationery, pens/pencils, dictionaries and other materials identified as being needed by teachers and other staff.

During May 2013, Mega building blocks were donated to Funimfundo Pre-school at Die Kop and a grant received from Knoxville Rotary (R40 000) was divided between Funimfundo, Buzzy Bees and the Okkie Smuts Koshuis for after school care.

In July 2013 Siviwe YuYu, the Headboy of Gansbaai Academia, was sponsored to attend a winter school in Wellington. He is one of the top 7 students in Academia who was chosen to attend the four day Winter School run

by Rachel’s Angels .

During the last quarter of the school year, Rotary helped sponsor a number of Grade 7 children from Okkie Smuts who joined their class tour to Knysna – thereby supporting growth through travelling.

The Stanford Creative Works project run by Regina Broenner, is one of the greatest success stories among projects supported by Rotary. Starting off with a small group of children at Jenny October’s house, it now keeps around 120 children busy two afternoons a week and has made a huge difference in the lives of those children.

Regina has come up with fascinating ways of keeping the children busy and produces a range of articles from hand painted cards to twinkling tea light holders which are for sale, raising further funds for the project.

Rotary Stanford assisted in collecting funds and paints for the Viva Art Fest on 02 November which Regina organised together with Sven Lager - see full details on page 6.

Local soccer teams are sponsored petrol money for 'away' games and received footballs and training bibs. The Young Tigers dream of the day when the whole team can attend a soccer match in matching tracksuits, and Rotary intends to help them realise this dream.

The Rotary Club of Stanford would like to thank every person in this community for his/ her support.

Without support it would have been impossible to achieve a fraction of the work mentioned above.

Donating groceries at Spar, clothing and blankets in such abundance, financial donations made into our bank account, purchasing raffle tickets, supporting the Rotary Car Boot Sale and purchasing Solar Jars – this generosity is what enables the club members to make a difference in our community.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 19

classifieds

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

FOR SALE

ANTIQUE OREGON display wall-unit, 1.020 x 1.050m, R600. p 083 773 8533.

DOUBLE BED & MATTRESS, good condition 1.37 x 2.00m, R1 500. p 083 773 8533.

Solar Garden Lights

PC & OFFICE WORKSTATION, fold-away unit, R250. p 083 773 8533.

Gorgeous garden solar lights to light up paths, plants and trees.

Path lights from R50 each to Bali lanterns R200. Call Pamela Trevelyan for advice. Mokorro shop has stock.

Sales at Warehouse prices direct to the public. You will NOT find prices like this in Cape Town. We import direct from Singapore.

THICK SLEEPERWOOD COFFEE TABLE. Top needs quick sand and varnish. What offers? p 082 920 8296.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE p 082 324 6799 or 079 395 1763.

FOR RENT

Pamela 082 336 1573 ladyp@iafrica.com

BACH PIANO in good condition to rent on a monthly basis.

Please p 082 815 0054 for details.

SERVICES

ADULT HORSE RIDING CLASSES. p Jake Uys on 079 468 9060.

CAPTURE YOUR 35MM slides digitally. R1 per slide. p Dirk Troost 084 643 4504.

EXPERIENCED HOUSE-KEEPER willing to clean your home from top to bottom on a daily basis p Hayley 083 759 5374.

GOT A BOISTEROUS DOG? I will walk him / her for you. R25 a walk. p 082 815 0054.

HEAL YOUR LIFE® FACILITATOR offering weekly group and one-on-one sessions. Are you ready to change your thoughts and change your life? p 071 382 9033.

HOUSE SITTER – LOVES ANIMALS Let me take the stress out of your holiday. Walk your dog, pat your cat and chat to the budgie! No problem. p Byron 082 848 5224.

RELIABLE & HONEST PAINTER. No job too small. Contactable references p Wilson on 072 223 2511.

SEWING clothing or decor – alterations, repairs and upcyclying p Robyn 082 404 8840.

SPECIALIZED KEYBOARD JAZZ TEACHING. p Andrew Herriot at

072 571 7846.

Santa Pawz Project If you would like to support the project to donate doggie bags to strays and neglected dogs in Cape Town, please contact Joan Carboni who is co-ordinating the collection for the Overberg area, from Stanford.

028 341 0415 or joancarboni@gmail.com

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

VILLAGE LAUNDROMAT

FRESH TROUT DELIVERED TO STANFORD FRIDAY MORNINGS email orders to langeklooftrout@vodamail.co.za by 3pm Thursday STANFORD RIVER TALK 20

Stanford

Irrigation installation, pruning, weeding, clearing Refuse removal Handyman small building jobs, paving etc Andre Du Toit 083 276 6614

For more information: santapawzbox.wordpress.com https://www.facebook.com/sasantapaws

Peter & Trish Badenhorst

ANDRE'S GARDEN & MAINTENANCE

AFRICAN HORSE COMPANY

Washing Ironing Tumble Drying Dry Cleaning Services Mon – Fri, 8.00am – 5pm 25 Queen Victoria st, Cell: 072 616 0976

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

Holiday Home Specialists

Are you the proud owner of a piece of heaven in our village?

Do you need someone reliable to take care of your property?

Contact us to discuss your house management.

We can take care of all aspects of your home while you are away.

We will market and let your property for weekends and holidays, or prepare it for your arrival.

Contact Ansie : 082 3200 982 or 028 341 0965 ansierei@gmail.com / enquiries@stanfordcountrycottages.co.za www.stanfordcountrycottages.co.za

Cosy cattery and kennel in lovely country atmosphere.

Qualified dog trainer.

weekly timetable

Well balanced diets, love and care.

028 - 3410 961

Monday 8h30am, Monday & Wednesday 5h30pm, Friday 10h30am Maitri Yoga, 35 Longmarket, Tasha Saha, 076 968 8608.

Monday 5h30 to 6h45pm Vinyasa Yoga with Leli, 082 350 0253.

Monday 6pm, Running Time Trials 5km, corner Adderley and Longmarket, last Monday of each month at Stanford Hills Estate.

Monday & Wednesday, 5pm, Canoeing, Slipway Church St, John Finch 028 341 0444, Jan Malan 082 452 9877.

Tuesday & Thursday 5pm to 6pm, Tae Bo, Okkie Smuts school hall, Ronnie 083 655 4521.

Tuesday & Thursday 5.30pm, Cycling, cnr de Bruin & Moore Sts, Sunday 6am Caltex Garage David Morrison 082 321 7996, John Finch 082 378 1935.

Tuesdays 8h30 - 9h45pm Iyengar Yoga with Marianne, Stanford Hotel, Conference Room in Courtyard, Leli 082 35 0253 Tuesdays 9 - 10ham Yoga for beginners with Leli, Stanford Hotel, Conference Room in Courtyard, Leli 082 35 0253 Wednesday, 6.30pm, Stanford Rotary Club Meeting, The Vine Restaurant. Everyone welcome. Stephen 084 705 6719.

Thursdays 18:30-21:30 Heal Your Life® Evening Group Sessions 071 382 9033 Thursdays 8h30 - 9h45am Vinyasa Yoga with Leli, Stanford Hotel, Conference Room in Courtyard, Leli 082 35 0253 Friday, 5pm, Canoe Time Trials, Slipway Church St, John Finch 028 341 0444, Jan Malan 082 452 9877.

Saturday, 10am – 12pm, Stanford Saturday Morning Market, Art Gallery Courtyard, 028 3410 591.

WHERE TO WORSHIP IN STANFORD NG GEMEENTE STANFORD Sondae 9:30 in die kerkgebou. Office, tel 028 3410 966.

ST THOMAS ANGLICAN CHURCH Morton St, contact Father Joseph Gabriëls 028 3410588 First Sunday of the month 10:30 Communion (Afr).

Second Sunday of the month 10:30 Service (Afr) Third Sunday of the month 08:00 Communion (Eng) Fourth Sunday of the month 10:30 Service (Afr) FULL GOSPEL CHURCH OF GOD cnr Queen Victoria & Bezuidenhout St. 09:30 Sunday service. Pastor Johnny van der Schyff • 028 3410 422.

VG KERK (next to De Bron School) 10:00 Sunday morning. Maureen Diedericks 028 3410 691.

STANFORD UNITED CHURCH, meets at St Thomas Church, Morton St. Interdenominational.

English service at 6pm Sunday. Bible Study, 7pm Tuesday night at 45 Queen Victoria St. Secretary Kerri Brokensha 028 341 0077.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 21

local services & facilities ACCOMMODATION A Stanford Country Cottage Beloftebos Cottages B‘s Cottage Blue Gum Country Estate De Klein Rivers Valley Fairhill Nature Reserve Morton Cottage Mosaic Farm Oak Grove Farm Reiersvlei Farm Lodge Reed Cottage Walshacres Riverside Stanford River Lodge Stanford Hotel The Country Cottage Villa di Baia Country Retreat

082 320 0982 082 391 5331 028 341 0430 028 341 0116 028 341 0048 079 495 2971 082 450 3970 028 313 2814 082 091 3914 082 213 0512 028 341 0984 082 614 6322 028 341 0444 082 781 1704 083 553 0663 082 336 1573

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES Maryke Brandt 072 172 9545 ALTERATIONS Caitlin‘s Dressmaking ANTIQUES/FURNITURE Sir Robert Stanford ARCHITECTURE Guy Whittle Maureen Wolters

083 358 6365 028 341 0048 076 113 2741 082 450 3970

ARTS, CRAFTS & GIFTS Ons Winkel BEAUTY AND WELLNESS La Femme BONDS/ HOME LOANS Tania Weich BOOKS Sir Robert Stanford

028 341 0647 028 313 0660 084 728 7345 028 341 0048

CAR CARE J & J Motorwerke

028 341 0410 071 219 9212

COMPUTERS Compuworld SMB Solutions 028 341 0718 084 705 6719 CONFERENCE CENTRE Mosaic Farm Stanford Hotel

028 313 2814 082 781 1704

CONSTRUCTION Stanford Bricks

028 341 0685

List your business for just R12 a month (only R144/year).

Email: design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or telephone 079 523 8453 DRIVING SCHOOL Drive with Cait

083 358 6365

PEST CONTROL Overberg Pest Control

028 312 2225

ELECTRICIAN H.C.D Electrical

079 182 8825

PETS & PET CARE Stanford Kennels Syringa Country Kennels

028 341 0961 028 341 0961

ENGINEERS Jardine Consulting Engineers 082 359 2287 ESTATE AGENTS Marlene‘s Properties Michael Thompson Estates Pam Golding Stanford Village Properties FIREWOOD Walshacres

082 732 1284 028 341 0929 074 126 7770 028 341 0708 082 893 2282 072 111 9321 028 341 0685 082 898 4889

PRINTING & PUBLISHING The Really Famous Publishing CC 079 291 1588 RESTAURANTS 1892 Stanford Spookhuis Art Café Stanford Gallery Barke Restaurant Graze Havercroft‘s Madré‘s Kitchen Marianas The Stanford Table The Vine

028 313 2814 028 341 0301 028 341 0116 076 243 1930 028 341 0603 028 341 0647 028 341 0272 028 341 0059 028 341 0662

SECURITY JSK Wrought Iron Safe Security

083 591 9600 028 341 0801

GARDENS & NURSERIES Krige Tree Services Walshacres Willowdale Nursery

082 658 0427 028 341 0685 082 899 1172

HAIR Jeanne Retief

072 318 2478

SEPTIC TANK TREATMENT Bob Hadley 082 901 9011

HOUSE MANAGEMENT Stanford Country Cottages Village Laundromat

082 320 0982 072 616 0976

STORAGE Stanford Storage

082 950 6007

HOME MAINTENANCE Stanford Country Cottages

082 320 0982

TAXI SERVICE Anytime Transfers

082 858 6765

INTERIORS Kiwinet Maureen Wolters

028 341 0209 082 450 3970

TRUCKS & TRANSPORT Stanford Bricks

028 341 0685

WEDDING VENUES Beloftebos Mosaic Farm Sir Robert Stanford Estate Stanford Hotel

082 391 5331 028 313 2814 028 341 0647 082 781 1704

LEGAL Alcock & Associates, Attorneys & Conveyancers 074 126 7770 NEWSPAPER Stanford River Talk

079 291 1588

MARKETS Sunset Market

083 604 0808

WINE CELLAR & SALES Sir Robert Stanford Estate Springfontein Wine Estate Stanford Hills Estate

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES African Queen River Cruises 082 732 1284 028 3410 929 Klein River Picnics 028 3410 693 Platanna River Cruises 073 318 5078 River Rat Boat Cruises 083 310 0952

WATER TESTING

STANFORD - RETICULATED DRINKING WATER RESULTS

STANFORD - RIVER WATER RESULTS

The treated sewerage outlet point into the Kleinriver is at the slipway at the end of Du Toit Street. The stream in the middle of town, starting in the dip in De Bruyn Street, is partly fed by the treated effluent from the waste water treatment works which gets complemented only in winter, by the overflow of the two dams in the middle of town. The two sampling points for the river are thus respectively known as under and above the treated sewerage outlet point.

Determinant (e. Coli) Under treated Above treated Sewerage Standard Sewerage Outlet poin Outlet point (Bridge R43 0-130/100ml (Jetty next to erf 396) to Hermanus)

Escherichia coli (E.coli) – bacteria that is a normal inhabitant of the human intestine. Its presence in a sample indicates pollution from human faeces.

Total Coliform bacteria – is the name for all the bacteria that produce gas and acid from the fermentation of lactose and its presence in a sample indicates pollution from the intestines of both humans and animals.

Heterotrophic Plate Count – is a standard microbiological method used to determine the efficiency of operations to remove or destroy organisms, good and bad, during the treatment process.

DETERMINANT

OCT

NOV

E. coli STANDARD (0/100ml)

0

0

0

OCTOBER

42

70

Total Coliform bacteria STANDARD (10/100ml)

NOVEMBER

72

70

Heterotrophic Plate Count STANDARD (5000/100ml) 0

STANFORD RIVER TALK 22

028 3410 647 028 341 0651 072 371 7546 028 3410 841

0 3124

Celebrations in Stanford

Irene Ivy 5 December

Nellifer Upton 3 December

Sandy Jardine 17 December

Bealah du Preez 6 December

Taylor and Courtney Anderson 17 December, turn 5.

Michael Thompson 17 December

Andre Jonas 21 December

Lyn Morris 26 December

Russel Metcalf 9 December

Jessica Phillips 19 December

If there is a birthday coming up or special occasion you want to share with the village please email design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za

Jenny Hayes 11 December

Kevin Husk 16 December Natalie Husk 21 December

Maureen Wolters 12 December

Bryan Robertson 14 December

Maureen Diedericks (right) 28 December.

Her daughter Leonie Titus (left) 24 December and her son Cameron Damon 30 December

Gerry Fourie 25 December

Cobus van Niekerk 28 December

Sean Ingles 30 December

RAINFALL STATISTICS SUPPLIED BY Jake Uys

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

ave

11.5

12

8.5

19

14

35

37

22.4

Feb

39.5

25

11

17.5

20

16

16

20.7

March

49

27

20.5

20

26

28.5

29

27.8

Jan

April

70

21.5

27.6

30

56

53.3

54

48.9

May

45

31.5

55

66.5

83

43.5

55

54.2

June

75.5

50.5

106.3

91.5

88

86

84

83

July

102.5

76

97.5

43

56

103

33

73

Aug

66.5

71.5

89

46

74

125

234

101

Sept

49.8

74

88

35.5

25.5

73

60.5

58

Oct

73

39.5

92

50

25

111.5

62

64.7

Nov

89.5

91

31

57

42

26

212

73.8

Dec

37

35

6

40

23.5

6

33

Year

708.8

554.5

632.4

459

533

708

41.3

STANFORD RIVER TALK 23