Stanford river talk december 2015

STANFORD RIVER TALK Volume 123 | DECEMBER 2015 | Stanford‘s monthly newspaper | R14

! s y a d i l o h y p Hap

Tasting Room open 7 days a week

STANFORD RIVER TALK 1

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Taken by Karen McKee at the Stanford Stumble

WHAT'S ON • Every Wednesday, Graze Farmers Market, 09:00 – 12:00, get your fresh veggies at Graze Restaurant.

SUN 20&27 DEC. 11AM TO 3PM. HERMANUS CRICKET GROUND.

• Every Saturday Morning Market, 9:30 – 12:00, home-made and home-baked goodies from the heart!

• Every Wednesday, mini bazaar, 10:00 –12:00, NG Church Hall. Arts & crafts, homemade food. Vendors welcome R20 per table. Setup at 09:00. Contact Veronique Olwagen for more details 082 550 5099.

• Thursday, 3 December, The Royal Oke Restaurant opening at Sir Robert Stanford Estate. Open for breakfast and lunch, Thursday to Monday, 8:30 –16:00. Bookings on 028 341 0647.

• 11 December SEC Music Workshop, Peasants Lounge Bar, 14:00 – 16:00, SEC Music Open Mic Sessions with Reinhard from Wild Lettuce, Peasants Restaurant, 19:00 – 00:00 R30pp.

• 12 December SEC Music Workshop, 11:00 – 13:00, 15:00 – 17:00. SEC Stomp at Birkenhead Galley and Brewery: Concert at 18:00 at the Birkenhead with tickets available at the door. Riders Connection, Nomadic Orchestra, Retrodizzy and jpson.

• 12 December, Stanford Animal Welfare Society: Music on the Lawn, 18:00.

• 13 December, Stanford Street Festival, 10:00 – 16:00.

Fun for the whole family with local food vendors, wine and beer garden, street entertainers, and local Christmas shopping. You will find gifts and surprises for all your favourite people, including yourself as Queen Victoria Street is pedestrianized for the day. Don't miss the Stanford Dip Skateboard Race plus rides and live music to suit everyone's tastes.

• 15 – 23 December Opwipwinkel / Pop-up Shop at The Butterfly Centre, 083 530 4968.

• 16 December, Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, 15:00 Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra. Gansbaai Primary School in Blompark with conductor Brandon Phillips. Entrance is free.

• 16 December, Grootbos Orchestral Performance of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, 18:00. See page 18.

• 16, 17, 18 December, Stanford Players Show, See page 18.

• 19 December, Birkenhead’s Alive Christmas Concert with family entertainment from 12:00 till late.

• 19 December, Sunset Christmas Market will be on a Saturday.

Village Green, 18:00.

• 26 December, Boxing Day Cricket, Village Green, 07:00 – 21:00. Potjiekos competition – participants can enter on the day.

Any interested food vendors please contact 082 213 0512 to book a spot. Looking forward to seeing everyone. Stanford Tourism is running the bar.

• 31 December, New Year's at the Barn, Springfontein Wine Barn • 3 January, Louise Carver and Watershed gig at Stanford Hills • 5 January, Stanford Conservation 'Who Strangled the Sushi Chef?' Stanford Tourism Office 09:00 – 11:30. Family fun for teams of maximum four. You will be given clues (Amazing Race style) that will take you on an expedition course through the village.

Enquiries & tickets milkwood@maxitec.co.za, tel 028 341 0430.

• Sunday, 10 January, Beloftebos Summer Sunday Picnics Relax under the oaks. Live music. Mouth watering food. Booking essential: Corneli de Villiers, corneli@beloftebos.co.za or phone 072 111 9380.

SURROUNDS

ART, WINE, BEER, FOOD AND FUN.

• Friday, 4 December, Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk, all local galleries remain open until 20:00 with special art sales.

• 11, 12 December, Gabrielskloof Favourite Things Market

PAINTING CLINIC FOR CHILDREN.

• 16 December, Pringle Bay Fynbos Market, 09:30 – 15:00 Community Hall.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 2

• 10 – 23 December, Gansbaai Christmas Market, NG Church Hall.

email your events to design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za

contact us

• EDITOR – Phil Murray 082 667 0619 philippa.murray@gmail.com • ADVERTSING & LAYOUT – Sandra Slabbert 079 523 8453 design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za

ed's notes

• ACCOUNTS – Michelle Hardie ed@stanfordrivertalk.co.za www.stanfordrivertalk.co.za

FACEBOOK

MONTHLY CONTRIBUTORS Jennie and John Chancey, Suzanne FrancoisRossouw, Andrew Herriot, Mike Horn, Olga Koorts, Emma Kriel, Karen McKee, Martin Ranger, Bryan Robertson, Naas Terblanche, Wanya van der Walt, Tania Weich and James Yeats.

Music on the Lawn eat, drink and be merry!

Great food on sale. Music by Andrew Herriot and Gerry Fourie. PLUS: Special performances by ‘The

♬♫♪

Ballarinas ‘ and ‘The Barking Trio’

♫♪♬

Bring own drinks • glasses • rugs • swimming costumes Saturday 12 December from 18:00. Entrance R20 each Venue: Castle Herriot, Adderley Street, Stanford.

All welcome - proceeds to Stanford Animal Welfare

Summer holidays will always hold a place in our hearts. Long after leaving school, the idea of the end-of-year holiday is enough to make grown-ups leap and frolick down the street, do rolypolys down grassy slopes or plunge into the river fully clothed. Matriculants have waited for this holiday their whole lives, and business owners spend months planning how to make the most of silly season.

Stanford has an excellent line-up in December. Please don't forget to support the Rotary Bags of Love project (News and Updates, page 8) and other charitable events. Our What's On calendar will be your essential December Fun Guide – don't miss out on these adult and family events.

Read about toadlet rescue on the early morning streets of the village (News and Updates, page 6) and about the mysteries of frog navigation.

James Yeats reviews a brand new Ridley Scott movie for those who like to kick back in the holidays (Screen Talk, page 19) while Bryan Robertson reminds us of the perfect marriage of simple ingredients (Kitchen Talk, page 15).

Our School Talk pages are filled with photographs of award winners and hardworking children. Well done for finishing your academic year on a high note, and may your holiday recharge you for the adventures of 2016. Dr Olga Koorts takes a light-hearted approach in Vet Talk as she tries to pin down cat personalities.

Team River Talk wishes all our Christian readers a wonderful Christmas holiday, and to those who find this time of year difficult, we wish you peace and comfort.

Editorial Contributions & Disclaimer Editorial contributions are welcome and should include top quality photos where relevant. Articles will be printed under the contributor‘s name or an accepted nom-de-plume if the full name and address is provided. All contributions are voluntary and not paid for. The editor reserves the right to edit, amend, abridge or reject any article.

Opinions of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the editor. Copyright All material in this issue is copyrighted, and belongs to The Really Famous Publishing CC unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be reproduced without prior permission. Published and printed by The Really Famous Publishing CC.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 3

news and updates

WARD COMMITTEE FEEDBACK Meeting held on 12 November 2015 WORKING FOR THE COAST Due to central government inefficiency, none of the coastal municipalities in South Africa have yet received the go-ahead for this poverty alleviation project. In the meantime Stanford Conservation’s wandelpad team, with the help of the municipality, are trying their best to keep the wandelpad cut, and free of weeds, etc. Riverfront owners are kindly requested to assist by taking out Pattersons curse, cutting the grass, etc. on the municipal area in front of their property.

Post meeting note: The project was eventually approved on 1 December, but there still is uncertainty as to when the team will start. In the meantime – please heed the request above.

IDP MEETING: 1 December 18:00 in the Community Centre You are all invited to a presentation of the municipal Integrated Development Plan, which sets the scene for municipal expenditure over the next 3 – 5 years. Projects not mentioned on the IDP will not get funding, and can also not apply for external funding (e.g. Lotto funding) for development/ projects on municipal land.

As Council is in recess, the next Ward Committee meeting will only be in February 2016.

Bea Whittaker

Black leather and cuddles Overberg Toy Run 25 bikes came to Stanford in 2014; 250 rumbled into our heritage village this year – what a turnout! Thank you, Karl van Zyl and the Tourism Committee for the incredible amount of hard work and dedication that has been shown in making this event so successful. The Overberg Toy Run falls under the umbrella of the nationwide, annual event that is held on the same day which is an incredible honour for Stanford. May this event grow from strength to strength, and the spirit of community and generosity of toy donations become a firm tradition in our village.

Thank you Stanford Rotary for co-ordinating the collection of toys, and to everyone who turned up to enjoy the fun-filled morning on the Market Square.

Lincoln Smith

River rules KRAB and the leisure use of the Klein River

There has been much said about the river and its users. Please allow me to put the situation into perspective for potential users and inform everyone of the current status quo in order to encourage safe usage on the No wake zone. water over the approaching busy period.

KRAB (Klein River Association of Boating) is tasked by the Overstrand Municipality with access control to the river via the Du Toit street slipway, and ensuring orderly behaviour on the river, as well as the licensing of craft using the river.

The entire municipal area from Melkboschkraal Nature Reserve up to the R43 road bridge, including the Du Toit street slipway and the area at the bottom of King Street, is a designated no wake, dead slow area for power boats. All motorized water sport is prohibited. This will be stringently controlled by KRAB to ensure compliance. Transgressors will be stopped and warned, and in terms of KRAB`s mandate, repeat offenders run the risk of having their river licences permanently withdrawn. Please note that jetskis are totally banned from inland waters in the Western Cape and will not be granted licences or be allowed to launch.

New signage will be erected on both sides of the river on the municipal boundary to reinforce the dead slow, no wake areas.

New padlocks and keys will be fitted to the launch area to prevent a small minority of users who historically have keys, but do not buy licences, from launching. The hut and the boom will be manned by uniformed security guards during peak periods to check licences and assist users. There will be no vehicular access to the launch area without permits.

All motorised craft will have to display the lime green 2016 numbered permit on the left hand side of craft to enable easy identification of those transgressing the rules printed on the back of their permits. KRAB will have boats available on the water to deal with complaints and behaviour issues, and will be assisted by SAPS and Law Enforcement where necessary.

We would like to remind river users that in terms of national legislation, ALL craft whether motorised or not, must keep to the right hand side of the river at all times. This is absolutely vital to ensure the safety of all.

The river is one of the biggest assets of the town, and is for the safe recreational use of all. The committee cannot be everywhere at once, and we welcome input from the public and river users, whether in the form of legitimate complaints, or questions and comments.

I wish you all a pleasure filled and safe boating season on the river.

Clive Pearce, Chairman – Klein River Association of Boating 079 766 4900

STANFORD PROPERTY SALES

Stanford Neighbourhood Watch It seems we are experiencing an upturn in crime in the village and with the festive season almost upon us, the need to be extra vigilant is critical. Please make sure you play your part in reducing crime.

• Report every incident to the SAP. There are two levels of report, namely an IR number (Incident report) and a CR number (Case reference) For an incident report, the event is recorded and logged in the official SAPS statistics but no case is opened. In a case reference, the SAPS will not only log the incident but will investigate the case.

Both reports are important as they keep the crime statistics accurate and show trends and times perpetrators are committing crimes.

• Please advise visitors to Stanford that leaving valuables unattended or in vehicles encourages crime.

Keep safe and alert, and have a great and safe festive season.

Chris Moll Stanford Neighbourhood Watch STANFORD RIVER TALK 4

Three properties in Stanford were issued with a sale certificates in November. These figures include name transfers.

Upcycling Upcyclingfor foraa better bettereducation education

Our housekeeper, Betty Qonya, is in charge of recycling on our farm and at our selfcatering cottages. I have taken photographs of the bounty collected from the Rotary Swop Shop over the past few months.

She has come back with a big smile and a collection of stationery for her son, Lukanho, every few weeks which is diligently and proudly packed away in my filing cabinet for future use. Thank you, Rotary Swop Shop.

Some of Betty's loot from Swop Shop. Natalie Husk

CPF NEWS New Station Commander in Stanford

Captain Winston Coetzee has been appointed the new Station Commander of Stanford SAPS from 1 November 2015. He was the Acting Station Commander at the Groot Brak Police Station where he was promoted from Warrant Captian Coetzee.

Officer to Captain. He brings a wealth of experience to his position, having served in the force for the past twenty five years. After doing his basic training in Bishop Lavis in Cape Town, he spent a lot of his time working in the Southern Cape, especially in Oudtshoorn and Riversdale.

Captain Coetzee, 47, is a family man, married to Wynette who will be joining him with their three daughters in December. Wynette is also a Sergeant in the police force. Captain Coetzee and his family love the outdoors, and whenever they can, they visit the many nature and game reserves in the Cape. His three daughters have been enrolled at Okkie Smuts Primary School for 2016.

He is keen to get to know the community in which he will be working, especially the youth which will be a particular focus for him. His aims are to bring both discipline and support to the youth of the town.

Stanford’s CPF welcomes him to the town. We look forward to working with him to make Stanford a town in which people feel safe and happy.

Donations and contributions

Stanford SAPS is grateful for all donations from the public. In order to streamline these and follow protocol, please make all donations through the Community Police Forum instead of dropping items directly at the charge office. The SAPS has given the CPF a wishlist if anyone is interested in making a donation. Donations of snacks for special events, or as thank you gestures, should also be coordinated by the CPF. Contact Stuart Anderson 083 286 6352 or Kevin Husk 082 809 3585 Stuart Anderson, Stanford CPF Secretary

Stanford Cares

Introducing the 'Share the Care' Model

Christine Lambrechts came across Share The Care™ (StC) whilst working as a specialised oncology and palliative massage therapist in Hospice in Australia. She was part of a group who supported a hospice client with MND (motor neurone disease) and was truly impressed at how the StC model not only enabled family and friends to spend quality time with the client, but also ensured that she could live a dignified life surrounded by care and love until her very last breath. Having subsequently used the model successfully for other clients and ill friends, it persuaded her to suggest it as a format for Stanford Cares.

Two friends, who cared for a mutual friend dying from cancer, developed the StC model. Finding it both simple and very effective, they duplicated it for others and when one of them died a few years later, Sheila Warnock decided to write a book and initiate a non-profit organisation promoting the model.

It involves formalising friends, family, acquaintances and care professionals into a structured group that can support and assist a person in coping with illness or disablement. A facilitator (who communicates with the person needing the care, their family and the group) is identified and an initial meeting is held where needs are assessed and people discuss what/ how they can contribute. Forms are completed and the care system gets off the ground.

Using StC in a whole community is fairly unique, but it has been done and we hope it can be replicated here.

Anyone needing support can contact the group; a committee member will visit and assess their specific needs and whether a StC group can be created. Please visit www.sharethecare.org for more information.

Stanford Cares

news and updates

Stanford Stumble

ROYD FRITH On your marks, get set, go!

The annual Stanford Stumble took place amid strong winds but that did not deter a magnificently dressed-to-amuse pack of oenologists, runners, walkers and 'stumblers' – nothing to do with the Stanford Wine Route stations dubiously sited to legally enhance performance.

One hundred and fifty well-fermented vine walkers, blended with over thirty colourful varieties of elves, plump grapes, red berries, and angels aptly named to endear the judges for the best-dressed entries, set off at 16:00. A Stumble record was smashed by young Strider Hamish Ground who finished in 17:03 minutes. The funds raised for The Butterfly Centre totalled R11 500 just from ticket sales.

Thank you to all those who participated in the Stumble, those who bid generously in the auction, as well as those who donated auction items which raised further funds.

Andrew Herriot

What a view!

Stanford Valley relaunches with a new restaurant and a makeover The weather was perfect on 7 November, and the view from the new restaurant at Stanford Valley Guest Farm onto the Akkedisberge was picture perfect. Locals, friends and family lolled on the lawn under the oak trees as they enjoyed the rhythm and sounds of Bottomless Coffee Band. The conference venue showcased the larger-than-life striking art of Gert Naude and the abundant strawberries, champagne and Italian gelato put everyone in a festive mood. The relaxed feeling lingered into the evening with slow roasted lamb, decorative and delicious salads and local wines.

Elsabe de Villiers and Reinder Naute, along with Madre Malan and the rest of the team, have brought a little bit more magic to Stanford.

The restaurant is open to the public and is well worth a visit, even if just to enjoy the view down the emerald grass slopes, and onto the rugged mountains. The crisp whitewashed cottages and farm horses add country charm to the elegant and modern restaurant.

Phil Murray

One man's junk is another man's treasure Have you got around to spring cleaning yet? Got any good quality items that need a new home? Please consider donating your unwanted goods to the Stanford Animal Welfare shop in Queen Victoria Street. We don’t actually want junk but will gratefully accept anything that is clean and in good condition – clothing, linen, household goods, shoes, books, toys, puzzles, bricabrac, etc.

Wednesday to Friday, 10:00 – 14:00 Saturday, 10:00 – 12:00 Contact Annie Ranger 028 3410 984 or ranger@reedcottage.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 5

news and updates

Thanksgiving in Stanford

Saving Western Leopard toadlets

Young toadlet rescuers.

'We could only save about half of them', said a rather distressed young eco-warrior from Die Bron Primary School in Stanford.

A group of Grade 3 learners from the school have been up at dawn for two weeks to save toadlets each morning before school. The group is accompanied by an adult volunteer to make sure that the little volunteers are safe.

During the breeding season in August, volunteers with the Whale Coast Conservation Frog Project confirmed that endangered Western Leopard Toads were breeding in the Willem Appel Dam in Stanford.

At the end of October, 10 –12 weeks later, the resultant baby toadlets emerged from the dam and started moving away to look for suitable foraging grounds. Unfortunately the dam is surrounded by roads and private properties that don't always allow for safe passage. In the case of an endangered species, every toadlet counts. So the volunteers took up the challenge to chaperone the toadlets across the roads in the early mornings when they are most likely to move.

Over a period of just one week, 506 live toadlets were moved safely off the road while 464 toadlets did not make it.

These budding naturalists (and the toads) need more help.

To become involved in any of the Whale Coast Conservation Frog Projects contact Sheraine van Wyk at sheraine.wcc@gmail.com Sheraine van Wyk

Over 200 guests gathered at the Birkenhead Brewery on 19 November for the first ever Village Thanksgiving Feast.

Main dishes and desserts catered by many of Stanford's Food Heroes included roast turkey, cornbread Matt Chancey, Oom Gerrie and Mr Koekemoer. dressing, sweet potato crunch, mash, traditional green bean and onion casserole, pecan pie, pumpkin pie and milk tarts. Attendees brought dozens of other delicious side dishes to add to the community table for a feast that started us licking our lips and left us thoroughly satisfied!

Master of Ceremonies, Matt Chancey, opened the event with a welcoming speech and presented a cheque for R20 000 to Okkie Smuts Principal, Mr Koekemoer, and Oom Gerrie from the 'koshuis'.

All funds were raised through ticket sales. Generous Stanfordians continued to contribute throughout the evening to raise further funds for a matching donation by an anonymous donor. At the time of printing, nearly R30 000 total has been raised for the 'koshuis', blowing away all expectations. We are so thankful for a community that loves to gather around for a good cause and for all the people who came with their grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends and acquaintances to join in the fun. We danced traditional American reels and even a few Afrikaans dances until nearly 23:00.

Thank you to all those who helped tirelessly in many ways, without which the event would never have succeeded. We would love to see this South African/ American Thanksgiving become a new village tradition, raising funds for worthy causes each year and drawing us closer together. That's what Thanksgiving is all about, and we are so happy to have been a part of this first in Stanford! Jennie Chancey

Who is the grass sod thief?

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 STANFORD RIVER TALK 6

POOL CLEAR BLU 180G HTH R21.50

RAINFALL STATISTICS

DIY - PAINT - PLUMBING IRRIGATION - NURSERY

Prices Valid While Stocks Last.

1 - 31 December 2015. All Prices Include Vat.

STANFORD

POOL PROMOTIONS

A few months ago some grass sods were delivered for wandelpad maintenance at the bottom of Quick Street late on a Tuesday afternoon. On the Wednesday morning when the team arrived, the sods were gone.

Last week four sods were removed from the same area.

Same culprit?

The wandelpad team is a dedicated group of volunteers who try their best with limited resources to make Stanford a better place for all. Please appreciate their efforts and add value rather than degrading rehabilitated areas.

Wandelpad Team

POOL WHAMO 450GM R40.00

POOL FLOATER SMALL 792G HTH R82.00

POOL SHOCK IT SACHET 600G HTH R35.00

POOL MONTH MATE SUPER PLUS 1.5KG R150.00

POOL SODA ASH500G R20.00

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY STANFORD 12 Queen Victoria Street Stanford, 7210 Tel: 028 341 0960 Website: www.stanford.kwsa.co.za Email: stanford@kwsa.co.za

Estate Agents for Keller Williams-Stanford & De Kelders

Amanda 084 911 2016

Specializing in HOUSES, PLOTS and FARMS

Harry 084 300 9595

Keller Williams is an international real estate company with over 120 000 real estate agents and 700 market centres across the globe. It is the largest real estate company in North America and the world’s largest real estate franchise by agent count.

Keller Williams expanded to Southern Africa 3 years ago and is well established in the Western Cape with Hermanus being the first office to open in this region.

Looking to buy or sell property in Stanford or surrounds? Contact us for friendly and professional service.

STANFORD RIVER TALK

SEND US YOUR NEWS

philippa.murray@gmail.com 082 667 0619

Stanford Bricks QUARRY PRODUCTS & TRANSPORT

Self-catering riverside accommodation a stone’s throw from Stanford. A tranquil, family- friendly break away from it all on the banks of the Klein River.

Russell Metcalf: 082 898 4889 Office: 028 341 0685 russell@walshacres.co.za

BRAAI & FIREPLACE WOOD

Walshacres

Riverside Accommodation www.walshacres.co.za ∙ nina@walshacres.co.za 082 614 6322

STANFORD RIVER TALK 7

Tis the season to be jolly Stanford Tourism is impressed by the peak season lineup in the village, and is delighted to support and promote the events of members. Locals and visitors will find many events and activities on the What's On calendar (page 2) to keep them entranced, amused and entertained. Don't forget to gather in Queen Victoria Street for the 'Switching on of the Christmas Lights' 2 December and don't miss the long-awaited 'Once upon a Time' amateur production put on by the Stanford Players. There are many opportunities to get your Christmas shopping done right here in the village so don't miss the Opwipwinkel at the Butterfly Centre or the Stanford Street Festival on Sunday, 13 December (more details on page 21). The Boxing Day Cricket Sixes is back this year with potjiekos and some great cricket matches on the Village Green.

Please support as many events as you can, and be sure to consult the 'What's On in Stanford' email from the Tourism Office which is sent on Thursdays so that you and your guests don't miss out. Everyone benefits from extended shopping hours and cheerful store décor.

May you have a wonderful and prosperous festive season with your friends and family.

For more information, or if you would like to be added to the Stanford Tourism emailing list, please contact Chantel 028 341 0340 Tourism Committee

ROTARY CLUB OF STANFORD The Rotary Club of Stanford would like to say a huge THANK YOU to everyone in Stanford who has supported us throughout the year. Without your support we could not help the elderly, sick, poor and the young with food, clothing, blankets, etc. by way of soup kitchens, charitable handouts or our Swop Shop. This support is received in various ways – regular monthly deposits into our bank account, the Sunset Market Raffles, donations of food, clothing, household items, fabric, yarn, knitted items left on doorsteps, and so on. All of this help us tremendously as we try to assist those who are much less fortunate than ourselves.

SCHOOL CLOTHES FUND This fairly new initiative recently received a boost by way of the fundraising efforts of four very industrious women from Stanford South. Janet Wyngaard recognized the need for school shoes, particularly in the winter months, and got her little group together and started fund raising. They make ‘curry buns’ or braai chicken with salads, and sell these plates of food to their neighbours and friends. The funds raised are given to Rotary for safekeeping and school shoes will be purchased in 2016 for children in need.

Janet’s team comprises of Cornelia Phillips, Grace Swart and Mathilda Barends.

Raising funds for school shoes: (From left) Cornelia Phillips, Grace Swart, Mathilda Barends, Janet Wyngaard and Lana Coates.

A PERSONAL MESSAGE The first five months of my term as the President of Rotary Stanford has gone by in a blur. Our members have all been very busy working on various projects, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support and tireless efforts.

I am very proud of them and of our little Rotary Club and its achievements.

Lana Coates, President STANFORD RIVER TALK 8

school talk All local schools are invited to send news and photographs each month.

GANSBAAI ACADEMIA Gansbaai Academia achieved some notable successes, and although a non-fee school, it continues to produce results ranking with the best.

• A group of grade 10 learners took part in the annual national JSE/ Liberty Life Investment Challenge. Over 8000 learners from 440 schools participated. Learners are awarded R1 million in virtual money which they have to invest in shares on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

Teams were judged on the growth of their portfolio. Our 'Sharky United' team members were Jacques Prins, Heinrich van der Merve, Andre Lourens and Starlin Niemand. Under the guidance of Mr Wilton Philips they performed exceptionally, achieving 1st place in the Overberg, 2nd place in the Western Cape and 6th overall in the country!

• The next notable success was when Academia learners participated in the Western Cape Provincial Project Citizen Programme at the Western Cape Provincial Legislator in Cape Town. It requires learners to identify a social problem within their school or community, do research on the legislation on the issue, draft a policy of their own and draw up an action plan to tackle the problem. All of this is then compiled in a visually attractive and logically flowing portfolio which the group presents orally at the provincial showcase. A group of grade 10 and 11 learners excelled by coming first amongst 10 Western Cape schools with the guidance of Academia teachers Ms Annerie Harding- Male and Ms Mona Matthews.

• The principal, staff and school governing body would like to use this opportunity to wish everybody a very merry festive season and may all our dreams come true in 2016. We thank everybody for their participation in the school.

First place in the Western Cape Provincial Project Citizen Programme: (Back from left) Anneri Harding-Male, Imadra Mabasa (presenter), Analo Yawa (presenter), Thirney Martin, Shamuel Leonard, Nicole Jantjies, Marcel Dickson, Lorenzo van der Raath, Mona Matthews, and Kobus Mike (Project Citizen Director) (Front) DJ Slamat (presenter), Jomari Joseph (presenter), Daylene van Riet (presenter), Zadia Plaatjies and Desswill Booi.

In Stanford every year from October to April

Cell 079 813 9554

school talk OKKIE SMUTS

EVENING OF CELEBRATION Congratulations to all the prize winners and learners who did their best in 2015.

Dux learner: Griffin Foxcroft.

Jacques Roussou: Chris en Amanda Geldenhuys Trofee 2015. Leierskap, lojaliteit, sportmanskap, wye belangstelling, vriendelikheid, pligsgetrouheid.

Akademiese Erekleure (Klasgemiddeld bo 80%): (Agter links) Mar-Lizé Potgieter Gr6, Jade Coetzee Gr5, Imaan Sydow Gr6 (Voor vanaf links) Nicole Dreyer Gr5, Paula Dreyer Gr4, Kirsten Marshall Gr4, en CareyLeigh Cornelius Gr4.

Vuyo Mbangeni, kuns Likho Poni: Overberg en kultuur toekenning: Eisteddfod Prestige vir Caledon Museum Visuele Kuns Kompetisie. Toekenning 2015.

Mark Kruger: Top chess player.

Beste netball prestasie: (links agter) O/13 Willene Dreyer, O/12 Jaydean Dreyer, (links voor) O/9 Cassey Barends, O/10 Kirsten Marshall en O/11 Likho Apolisi.

Beste Prestasie Rugby: Lennett van Riet O/13, Marchello Appel O/11 en Sandise Bangani O/9.

Beste Prestasie Krieket: Christiaan Wessels en Sandise Bangani.

Voorbeeldige gedrag: Veronique Moses Gr3, Japie Louw Gr6 en Cathleen Blomerus Gr7.

Marchello Appel: Beste rugby en landloop.

Hostel monitors for 2016: (links agter) Marco Vermeulen – Hoofseun, Bruce Holder, Jeandré Koegelenberg, (links voor) Madelein Blomerus hoofdogter en Andiswa Dumakude.

School monitors for 2016: (links agter) Akeem Booysen, Matthew Privett, Luke Taberham, Nushaan Cornelius, Imaan Sydow – Onder Hoofdogter, (links middel) Jeandré Koegelenberg – Onder Hoofseun, Ethan van der Schyff, Kia McKay, Gretchen Ockhuys, Nicole Dreyer, (links voor) Japie Louw – Hoofseun en Mar-lizé Potgieter – Hoofdogter.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 9

CURRO Sean Castle, grade 7: Junior Sportsman of the Year trophy, Best Rugby Player trophy, Arts and Culture trophy, Sporting Achievement Award for Athletics, Academic Achievement Award for Distinction in Maths and Art, and the award for the Most improved Gr7 pupil.

Matthew Castle, grade 9: Gold Academic Award for Academic Average over 80 % for the year.

Annorhyn Tolken, grade 11 Deputy Head Girl. Top Achievement Grade 11 in: English First Additional Language, CAT and Business Studies. The Business Studies trophy. 81% Average for all three terms. Member of the Student Council.

Kirra Jardine, grade 10: Service Award: being a friendly, respectful and helpful learner.

Top grade 10 in Hospitality and Senior Hospitality Trophy.

Thaddeus Biernacki, grade 10: Full Sports Honours – Provincial Colours in Chess Under 16.

Gian Bester, grade 7: (Head Boy 2015) Achievement award for Cricket and Rugby.

Tume Bester, Johanne Bester, grade 5: Academic grade 9: Academic achievement. achievement.

THE BUTTERFLY CENTRE The Butterfly Centre now operates five days a week from 08:00 – 12.30, and offers a variety of activities in the afternoons. The children are thriving in this happy and loving environment, but it’s not just fun and games!

Teacher Jilly Gilmour’s wealth of experience and firm but fair manner has made a massive difference to the Baking fun: Jilly Gilmour with reading, writing and counting Jack Kastner and JJ. of the children. We have seven children in the morning groups, the maximum we can accommodate at present. Activities include Lego therapy with Matt Chancey, drama with Beatrice Pook, music with Andrew Herriot, yoga with Kerri Rischbieter and baking with Jilly Gilmour on Fridays.

Our staff, as well as some other professionals and parents, have benefited from the skills of some amazing people. Yolande Roed (Children's Behavioural Specialist) presented a course on getting the behaviour people want from their child, and Margaret Golding presented a certificate course on T.E.A.C.C.H (Treatment and Education for Autistic and related Communication Handicapped Children). On 5 December she will present a course on Makaton, an augmentative multimodal language programme using signs and symbols with normal grammatical speech to develop communication and literacy.

We hope to welcome more pupils in future. Look out for the Opwipwinkel (pop-up shop) at the Butterfly Centre from 15 – 23 December which will also include products produced by the Overstrand Wheelchair Association who now use our garage as their studio. It’s great to have them on board.

We would love to have uniforms ready for the children (Tracksuit pants/shorts and a golf shirt) before the start of the 2016 school year. If anyone is able to assist in this regard, it would be greatly appreciated.

With thanks and warm regards Jami, Jilly, Kerri, Vuyo and all the children

Griffin Nale, grade 2: Certificate for Outstanding Achievement in Maths and English and for Excellent General Knowledge.

DIE BRON

Congratulations to all the learners who received awards at the school prize giving. You have made your school proud!

LERATO HERMANUS, grade 7 Leardership award, Principal’s award and Headgirl 2015. Top achiever in: Technology Natural Science, Maths, EMS and in Grade 7.

Die Bron Primêr sê totsiens aan ‘n kollega Na 29 jaar van diens aan die skool, tree Juffrou Francis Cupido (Gardiner) uitdiens by die skool. Geniet die aftrede en baie dankie vir Juffrou se onbaatsigtige toewyding en diens aan die skool, kollegas en leerders.

(From left) Mrs Sandra October, Mr Lionel Pedro ad Mrs Francis Cupido.

FUNIMFUNDO

Long-time teacher of pre-schoolers, Sheila Heyns, had the little ones at Funimfundo fascinated during story time under the trees at the busy school recently.

Books still seem to have the magic to engage young minds and this one with pop-ups of farm animals had the rapt attention of all.

Wordless books are a perfect Story time under a tree. introduction to the written word for children who can’t read yet. Since we become picture-literate before we become print-literate, they can 'read' the book if someone helps blaze a trail through a relevant story initially. After hearing the book and seeing how the clues for the narrative are all in the pictures/ illustrations, the child can pretend to read. This is a vital first step to take before real reading starts. The child understands the plot from the illustrations.

Visiting teacher Sheila was impressed by the level of concentration of the children at Funimfundo.

Food 4 Thought wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a blessed 2016.

Marian Williams

Team River Talk wishes Stanford children a fun, full and safe summer holiday with friends and family.

Well done to everyone for thriving in 2015!

STANFORD RIVER TALK 10

Dust off the Christmas decorations, stock the larder with festive treats and hang the stockings because Christmas has arrived!

We have had a blessed year and Jill, Connie and Ros wish all our fellow Stanfordian’s a magical festive season, safe travels and a prosperous new year.

We urge all locals, holiday makers and new Stanfordians to support The Bags of Love Initiative run by the Rotarians of Stanford. This provides the disadvantaged in our community with food and other essentials over the festive season. To find out how to support this worthwhile cause please contact Lana Coates the President of the Stanford Rotary Club on 028 341 0349 / 082 216 4398.

AGENT DETAILS: Jill Smith / Ros Nale TEL: +27 (28) 341 0708 CELL: +27 (83) 700 4103 / +27 (78) 693 4046 6 Queen Victoria Street Stanford 7210 EMAIL: Jill.smith@pamgolding.co.za / rosalind.nale@pamgolding.co.za OFFICE EMAIL: stanford@pamgolding.co.za WEBSITE: www.pamgolding.co.za STANFORD RIVER TALK 11

village lifestyle

SEVEN REASONS TO AVOID STANFORD Karen McKee issues a stern warning and a sprinkling of salt

Having read some trending topics on social media and being swept up in the wave of reasons to hate whichever place, I assumed the responsibility to tell people about Stanford and why this hateful place should be avoided at all costs. It is just not the place you would like to spend time in, and, as a semi long-term resident of this insufferable village, I’m here to tell you exactly why you won’t love it here.

• The children. Oh, the free range children! There are just so many of them. Kids of all ages wander the village streets without a care in the world, licking their little ice-creams from the local Italian Gelateria with gusto. They amble, trundle, giggle, skateboard and rollerblade as if the village streets and pavements belong to them. How disturbing.

• There is no place to picnic. You have to walk at least 400 metres to find a decent place for a picnic. Outrageous! And if someone is already picnicking there, you have to drag your picnic basket for at least another 100 metres to find a spectacular spot under a willow weeping into the river. It is just torture.

• It is boring. Nothing happens here. Like, EVER. Beside the sunset markets, annual play, school performances, whisky club, Wine and Wisdom evenings, jazz concerts, karaoke nights, braais with friends, frog rescue missions, wine with friends, birthday parties, impromptu lunches, stumbles through the vineyards, fundraisers, thanksgiving nights, street festivals, Saturday morning markets, party trips down the river and book launches, there is just nothing to do. NOTHING. It is totally boring.

• The people suck. Never in your life will you find people this intrusive.

If you have a crisis, they will organise a dinner delivery schedule. If you are sick, they’ll steal your kids for sleepovers. If your dog gets lost, they’ll find it. And when your family arrives they will adopt them and show them around the village. Enough already with the imposition!

• Ugly buildings. Old, fugly buildings everywhere. If you are a fan of modern architecture this place is your biggest nightmare. Can you imagine a village filled with pristine heritage buildings? Eew! • Horrible food. Even MacD and KFC have shunned this horrid village. So, here you will only find slow food, farm grown organic fare, homemade delicacies, fresh fish, game, freshly baked goods, innovative dishes and waterblommetjies. Yuck.

• No wine. There are only around 20 brilliant wine producers around here – and they have recently conned themselves into a wine route. Try it at your own peril.

So, you have been warned. Don’t say I didn’t tell you. Stanford is a terrible place. Avoid at all cost!

SMILE O

My tea drinking man A cup of tea makes everything better for Emma Kriel

M

ost of my readers will know by now how old I am so there’s no need to repeat myself. If I am asked the question, 'What do you think are the most attractive (or unattractive) qualities in a man?' my reply should carry some clout. Not that I am an authority. By no means, but I have been amongst chatting women and heard it said that they love the sound of his confident step as he walks up the driveway; or his rugged looks; or the way he opens the door for her; or even his wanting to choose the dress she wears. Others will be reminded of the way he cooked the dinner, or the way he runs his fingers through his hair, or how he insists on washing the dishes, wrapped in her apron with soap suds up to the elbows.

And I agree, those are very attractive qualities in a man.

On the other hand, there are notable unattractive qualities, like my mother who said that when Tom took her out for a date for a third time (very attractive he was too) she noticed that the button on his jacket was still missing, meaning that he was either careless, or sloppy or helpless or probably all three, and that was the last she saw of him. Yes, in those days people noticed things like that! What about the man with smelly feet on the first date or the one who wears jewelry or even dyes

his hair – I agreed with all that chatter. But the man who asked me when did I think I would get around to cleaning the fridge while a deadline was looming, that one wasn't around for very long – not my sort.

So who is my sort then?

Without hesitation, he is the one who says, 'Let’s have a cup of tea.'

Undeniably, there is something very attractive about a tea drinking man; no matter if he’s tall or not, thin or otherwise, which ever way he runs his fingers through his hair, or not: the fact he loves to linger with me over a pot and two cups, be it at the breakfast table, or in the garden or at a picnic or in bed – there’s no doubt, he’s at the top of my popularity list – pot after pot.

Fat, thin, tall, slim aside, there is a special bonding quality about sharing a cup of tea; a bond no other drink can emulate. Gather the family around a fresh pot of tea and just listen; feel the trust and cameraderie bloom when others are relaxed and enjoy your company.

I am confident I want to be nowhere else. It is this that has created a closeness amongst my children, which has never been broken, however far they have strayed along their own paths. No more than a cup of tea – pot after pot, binds them.

Naas Terblanche is having a laugh

ne day last week, for no reason at all, I was feeling a bit downhearted. When I came around the corner on my way out of a shop, a mother with her young daughter passed me. To my surprise the little girl waved at me and smiled.

I smiled back and kept on walking to my car that was parked some

STANFORD RIVER TALK 12

distance away. When I reached the car I found myself still smiling and for the rest of the day I felt rather cheerful.

This incident started me thinking. How did humans develop smiling and laughing?

According to research the indications are that smiling and laughing developed as a social

sign of non-aggression and co-operation. There are two types of smiles.

The Duchenne smile named after the 19th century French neurologist Guiliume Duchenne involves both the face muscles that lift the mouth corners as well as the muscles that lift the cheeks and makes the eye corners

wrinkle to form 'crows feet'. This smile is usually associated with positive emotions and is mostly involuntary.

A non-Duchenne smile is one where only the mouth corners are raised, with, or without a show of teeth. This smile is generally regarded as fake, because it does not necessarily involve

positive emotional feelings. It is sometimes called the ‘botox smile’ or the ‘Pan-Am smile’, after the cultivated smile of the Pan American airline hostesses.

Whatever the origin of the friendly smile, the fact is that smiles are contagious and good for all, so please keep on smiling.

The Villagers

A taste of Wine & Wisdom

Shameela Abrahams is friendly and helpful. She has worked at Overberg Agri for years and knows all the farmers and villagers who frequent the 'Stanford Mall' for their farming. gardening, DIY and pet needs. She greets children by name and her easy laughter makes her popular among her friends and colleagues.

1. Jack Goldin 2. Elizabeth Taylor 3. Costa Concordia 4. Eddie Murphy 5. Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation 6. Louisiana 7. The Blue Caterpillar

How long have you lived in Stanford?

I have lived here for most of my life. The 26 years I have spent here have been an amazing experience.

What is your favourite thing about living in the Overberg?

My favourite thing is nature. I adore and love the beautiful fynbos, flowers and, of course, Stanford's Wandelpad.

What would you like to see in Stanford to make it a better place for all?

I would like to see more activities for children and the youth to help minimise the temptation of the youth getting involved in violence and drugs. I would also like to see more functions for the elderly to help bring our community together.

What have been your highlights in 2015?

My highlight of 2015 was seeing my sister go to varsity. It was such a proud moment seeing her off to get her degree and knowing that she is going to make something of her life.

Describe how you plan to decorate your perfect Christmas tree.

I plan to decorate my Christmas tree with my son and family which makes it more special. We will decorate the tree according to tradition with our family decorations, lights and a big star on top.

For those who have never been to a Conservation Trust fundraiser, here is a selection of the questions posed by quizmasters Lana and Tony Coates at November’s trivial quiz night.

1. Who established Pick ‘n’ Pay? 2. This actress was the first to receive $1 million for a film role.

3. Captain Schettino was jailed after his ship ran aground in 2012... what ship?

4. Who was the voice of ‘Donkey’ in the Shrek movies?

5. In the world of finance, what does HSBC stand for?

6. What US State is the home of Tabasco?

7. Which character in Alice in Wonderland smoked a hookah?

Wine and Wisdom is held on the first Thursday of the month at the Birkenhead Brewery. The fee of R50 goes to the Stanford Conservation Trust. If you would like to join in the fun contact Annie Ranger annie@reedcottage.co.za to book your place.

ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE, LAND -USE PAUL SLABBERT B Art ET Scien, EAPSA, APHP, IAIA

phs@orcawireless.co.za www.phsconsulting.co.za Corporate Social Investment Projects www.africanvisionfoundation.co.za

Tales from the Raj This is the sixth article in a series of vignettes by Guy Winchester-Gould and offers an overview of the period until 1947 when India gained Independence from Britain.

The Indian Mutiny of 1857 was a long time coming and when it did it caught the East India Company and British Army in India completely unawares. The event, lasting just over a year, plunged northern India into a maelstrom of savage and brutal violence.

SIEGE OF CAWNPORE Without doubt the most shocking events of the Mutiny took place in the garrison town of Cawnpore situated on the so-called Grand Trunk Road along the banks of the Ganges River. Here the greatest massacre of Europeans was carried out with such savagery and cruelty that Britain reeled at the news.

Besieged company forces, including civilians, under the command of Major-General Sir Hugh Wheeler were unprepared for an extended siege and with rations sufficient for a few days only, surrendered to rebel forces in return for safe passage to Allahabad along the Ganges.

The European party, including Eurasian and Christian Indians, left the entrenchment and made their way to the river where boats were waiting to transport them to Allahabad. Whatever the circumstances, their evacuation turned into annihilation for sepoys positioned on both sides of the river opened fire.

Later, sowars would ride into the shallow water to finish off survivors.

Most of the evacuees, including Wheeler and his wife, perished.

Worse was in store for the 200 or so women and children. They were rounded up and interred in

a villa-type house in Cawnpore originally built by a British officer for his mistress and known as Bibighar, later to be called ‘The House of the Ladies’. Here, later, survivors of the river massacre were butchered with cleavers, their remains thrown down a well and also tossed into the Ganges.

When British officers and soldiers reached Cawnpore on 16 June all were horrified and enraged by what they found.

The initial treachery, followed by the massacre of women and children, embittered British troops in India, with ‘Remember Cawnpore’ becoming a famous and fearsome war cry. Retribution was swift and reprisals harsh. Houses were razed and rebels thought to have been involved in the massacre of the women and children were disgraced by being forced to eat beef and pork before being hanged, shot or bayoneted.

PlumbTec Awesome plumbing service in the village

Angel of Pity Memorial.

Those believed to be ringleaders were tied across the mouths of canons and literally blown to pieces.

After the Mutiny money was forcibly raised from the inhabitants of Cawnpore, as punishment for not having come to the aid of the women and children who perished, to erect a fitting memorial on the site of the well. (continued next month)

082 609 0809 plumbtec.info@gmail.com STANFORD RIVER TALK 13

Festive Season Greetings from Kiwinet

Cheese | Picnic | Family

+(27) 028 341 0209 • info@kiwinet.co.za • www.kiwinet.co.za 34 Daneel Street STANFORD 7210

www.kleinrivercheese.co.za 028 341 0693 | R326, 7 km out Stanford

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

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

R750 000 Large 1026m2 plot set in sought after part of Stanford. With lovely views of the mountain range and just a stroll away from the river.

R5 575 000 Solitude of the Heritage part of Stanford with the most amazing birdlife in your garden and the river on your doorstep.

This immaculate home is set in a verdant, sprawling, park like garden with panoramic views of the river and mountains.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 14

Wishing all our clients, past, present and future a Peaceful and Happy Christmas with their loved ones.

R1400 000 Light filled 2 bedroom cottage set in a small security estate in the middle of the village. A stroll away from the library, shops and restaurants. A perfect lock up and go, rental, or retirement opportunity.

R2 700 000 Down a shady lane and overlooking the river. Move straight into this immaculate home with magnificent views of river and mountains.

R1 650 000 Unique and charming 2 bedroom cottage set on large erf .

The indigenous garden is filled with an assortment of fruit trees and enough space to add a guest cottage, studio or office.

Stanford's latest published author 'Mariana's Country Kitchen', Mariana Esterhuizen Mariana launched her new cookbook, 'Mariana's Country Kitchen' on 7 November at Marianas Restaurant. It was a clear and warm Saturday which best showed off Peter and Mariana's wild yet tamed kitchen garden and restaurant, and friends and family gathered around excitedly to celebrate Mariana Esterhuizen as the 'Best Newcomer at the Sunday Times Cookbook Awards'. Mariana made a special effort to celebrate and thank her kitchen and garden team, all whom played a part in her recipe book.

The book, also available in Afrikaans as 'Marianas se Vier Seisoene', is beautifully presented with photographs by Stephen Inggs which capture the colours and scents of the bountiful veggie patch, and Mariana's honest-to-goodness country food.

Guests were tantalised with tastes of fresh radishes pulled straight from the soil, and a broadbean dip which had people eating with their hands and smacking their lips together. I idly picked up a book and fanned through the pages, before going back to the beginning and reading the introduction. The writing is friendly and comforting, as are the recipes, and Stanford shines through as a long-established traditional village brimming over with stories, history and characters who have had an impact on Peter and I couldn't buying d Mariana.

M i ld 't resist i tb i myself an early Christmas present, and I think you should too.

I have already cooked the rolled pork neck with cider, apples and sage and feel compelled to announce Mariana's recipe a triumph!

Phil Murray

kitchen talk

A marriage of flavours Bryan shares two perfect matches

One of Stanford's hot mamas introduced me to Italian Wedding Soup, which is a very misleading name. The term 'wedding soup' is a mistranslation of the Italian language phrase 'minestra maritata' (married soup) which is a reference to the fact that green vegetables and meats go well together.

This reminded me of the occasions I worked with a very intuitive and knowledgeable chef named Daniel Jardim, who also often referred to kitchen marriages, when ingredients join perfectly to enhance one another yet retain their own distinction.

Here are two of my favourites, and both are perfect for summer. Chocolate and orange for sweet, and fennel and fish for savory tastebuds.

CHOCOLATE SNOW This dessert is super rich, so don't be deceived by the quantities. Serves 4 and should be made in the morning for the evening event.

2 egg whites 110 g dark chocolate (Cadbury's is very good for this) 25 ml orange juice Melt the chocolate in the orange juice in a double boiler over low heat. Remove from the stove and allow to cool.

Beat the egg whites stiffly, then fold into the chocolate mixture.

Pour into a serving bowl and chill until set. Serve with whipped cream.

FENNEL OIL Using fennel to flavour oil is a good way of capturing its liquorice-like essence. Serve it with poached fish or salmon.

2 heaped Tsp of fennel seeds 400 ml light olive oil Blend the fennel seeds in a spice mill or food processor, then combine with 1 tablespoon of warm water and stir into a paste. Mix the paste into the oil, then leave for a few days, stirring occasionally. Carefully pour the oil through muslin into a sterilised airtight container, leaving the sediment behind.

Store in the fridge for up to 6 months.

Taste the Terroir

wine talk

Tania Weich allows wine to dictate this holiday.

W

oe is me! The holiday season approaches, and with it the onset of new challenges. So many choices, so little time. Oh what to do this holiday? Or so this passage would have begun, had we not been in the position to wax poetically about our wonderful world of wine.

South Africa offers a variety of different wine-growing regions.

The distinct differences or ‘sense of place’ a wine has, is referred to as Terroir. It embodies the climate, soil and location of a vineyard to yield a specific flavour and aroma in our wine glasses. There really is no place like home to explore the wealth of wine wonders, right on our doorstep. What better reason to stop whining this holiday season and instead make wine the focal

point of our precious time out?

Whether our preference is for aromatic white wines and elegant reds or wines that are riper, richer with more body and higher alcohol levels, our needs are met on an internationally competitive level. The climatic conditions in the vineyards in relation to proximity to the sea and shelter from nearby mountain ranges ensures that we have world class tipple to appease every palate. What are we waiting for right? Let’s pack light and go local.

Stellenbosch is a must-stopover-and-stock-up-point. It is a quality wine growing district with cooler temperatures and varied soil that produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet–based red blends. Other reds in this

district’s stable of fame also include Shiraz and Pinotage.

Yet Stellenbosch produces sought after Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, as well as sparkling wine. Small wonder that 'Stellies' is known as the wine capital of South Africa. The climate is similar to Bordeaux, which may be the reason for the area being popular for investment by the French.

If playing is a priority on your vacation schedule, Franschhoek, the millionaire’s playground, may be your destination of choice. Select wines of particular distinction from this area to do the tango on your tongue while you meander through the visiting celebrities and royalty who are drawn to the scenic valley and ‘better’ restaurants and sip Cabernet Sauvignon

and Semillon.

So much to do, so little space to write.

I think I’m going to stay home this holiday. The Walker Bay district with its Terroir that produces elegant wines offers substantial variety to keep my wine glass topped up this season. It’s been a long year and I’ve earned the right to indulge in the princely Pinot Noir … and perhaps the Chardonnay, and the Sauvignon Blanc ... and of course, because I am patriotic … the Pinotage.

Note to self: Terrier is that thing that bites me in the rear.

Think Terroir, Tania! (te-rwaar).

I plan to get it right and ensure that I find myself on the right side of the wine map as I head into the New Year. Happy holidays fellow wine lovers.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 15

vet talk

nature talk

A froggy mystery Naas Terblanche received an email from John Duval with a photograph of a strange frog. Naas identified it as a Painted Reed frog. He confirmed this with Dr John Measey of Stellenbosch who said that this frog normally occurs in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal.

It is now regarded as Painted Reed frog. invasive in the Western Cape. No one knows what implications this will have for other frogs in Stanford.

Naas then contacted Atherton de Villiers of Herpetology, Scientific Services, Cape Nature for his perspective: 'It is definitely a painted reed frog. This is a bit worrying because it means that they may now have invaded Stanford and it is important to assess the situation.

One of the concerns is that they are a potential threat to the arum lily frog. It could, of course, be only one frog that was brought in accidentally with nursery plants or a crate of fruit. It will be good if you can assess the situation by visiting the main water bodies in Stanford on a warm night to listen out for their calls and assess the number of frogs calling. The nearest introduced population is at the Hermanus Golf Course.'

Atherton L. de Villiers

CATS AND COLOURS Are cats’ personalities linked to their colour?

Although a few studies have been done, little evidence exists to support this. After years of treating cats and living with them, I think there is some truth in the theory. So, for a bit of fun, see if you agree.

As a cat’s colour is linked to the X chromosome, tortoiseshells and calicos are mostly female and are always divas. They know what they want from life and how to get it. ‘Naughty torties’ is an apt description.

Ginger or ginger and white tabby cats are sweet, sassy and surprising.

They are the adventurers and clowns of the cat world. The boys can be real schmoozers while the girls may be unpredictable – likely a genetic link they share with the torties.

Brown tabbies are real cats. They act as if they know they resemble their wild ancestors. Although confident hunters they may often be found curled by the fire or enjoying some laptime.

Greys and grey tabbies are the sweeties and are 'easy' cats that get on with everybody, thanks to their gentle, affectionate personalities.

This does not, however, mean that they have forgotten how to be curious.

White cats are enigmas. Their white colour is inherited as a 'masking' gene, hiding their true colour and personality. Some call them aloof, others calm and peaceful.

Tuxedo cats (black with white bib) are the James Bonds of the cat world. Sophisticated but playful travellers they are dressed for every occasion and love to roam. The same goes for black and white spotted cats that have a reputation for being great mousers.

Solid blacks are the sophisticats.

Cool, sleek and confidently stubborn.

So, maybe colour does play a role along with breed and environment.

You decide.

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STANFORD RIVER TALK 16

By Suzanne Francois-Rossouw

plant talk

Choosing a Christmas tree As a little girl Christmas was always my favourite time of the year. What I looked forward to was making all the Christmas decorations and decorating our beautiful, but fake, Christmas tree.

As I got older we started decorating a big grey conifer outside the house with lights. When I was a student we planted a cedar tree we bought from the old nursery and we decorated that for Christmas.

If I have to choose I prefer a real tree instead of a plastic one. The difficult part is deciding what type of real tree to use. In our nurseries you won't find traditional Christmas trees as seen in Europe so why not choose an indigenous tree?

THESE INDIGENOUS TREES CAN BE CONSIDERED:

EXOTIC CHRISTMAS TREE IDEAS: • LEYLANDII Fast- growing large conifer with bright green foliage. Looks like a traditional Christmas tree.

• GOLDCREST Conifer with golden yellow foliage. Ideal as a container plant that can be taken into the house for Christmas.

• MONTEREY CYPRESS Medium to fast growing cypresses with grey- green foliage.

BLADDERNUT TREE A round shaped tree with small leathery, dark green leaves.

Makes an excellent specimen either in a pot or the garden.

Supplied by Seymour Paterson

ASSEGAI TREE A fast growing upright to pyramidshaped tree with dense foliage.

Large dark green on top and greyish underneath.

HENKEL'S YELLOWWOOD Slow-growing with bright green drooping foliage. Grows better in semi-shade, grows into a stunning fat and fluffy-looking pyramid shape.

REAL YELLOWWOOD A slow-growing tree with greygreen foliage that is a bit thicker and longer than the Outeniqua yellowwood. It grows in a pyramid shape and is also a good variety for a pot.

RAINFALL

OUTENIQUA YELLOWWOOD One of the faster growing varieties (for a yellowwood!) with fine, bright green foliage and a pyramid shape.

Can be grown in pots or in the ground.

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

ave

Jan

8.5

19

14

35

37

Feb

11

17.5

20

16

16

104

23.4

32.7

17

18.2

16.5

March

20.5

20

26

28.5

29

April

27.6

30

56

53.3

54

25

14

23

48

13.3

29.7

May

55

66.5

83

43.5

55

June

106.3

91.5

88

86

84

30

33.2

62.1

139

160

July

97.5

43

56

103

33

91

107

109.5

89.5

Aug

89

46

74

125

234

Sept

88

35.5

25.5

73

60.5

41

52.4

91.7

42

42.2

56.2

Oct

92

50

25

111.5

62

Nov

31

57

42

26

212

36

23.7

56.3

43

49.5

55

Dec

6

40

23.5

6

5

13

Year

632

459

533

708

881.5

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ERWIN'S Traditional German Meat Products produced locally Available at Stanford Saturday Morning Market and at Spar.

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Stanford

Stanford, 23 Queen Victoria Street, Tel: 081 805 7470

The

GGrootbos Orchestral CHARITY PERFORMANCE

All proceeds will go to Overberg charities.

16 D ECEMBER (Side view) R750 pp

Dress code: Formal Time:18h00

FOOD ART MEAD TUES TO SUN: BREAKFAST & LUNCH FRI: CHEAP N CHEERFUL, 6 - 9 PM TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS LUNCH 25 DEC FOR DIRECTIONS AND FURTHER INFO: 081 021 2313 . 083 409 8126 stanfordharvest@gmail.com STANFORD RIVER TALK 18

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LITTLE

028 3410 340

Tickets: (Front view) R950 pp

LITTLE MERMAID

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Little R e d Riding Ridi Hood

THREE

THE BACK GARDEN

THE MUSICAL

PET TER PAN

gelato created, we sharewe more In In ourStanford Stanfordwhere venueour , where ourisgelat o is created, share of our Italian lifestyle in a true Italian trattoria.

Enjoy more of the Italian lifestyle - a true Italian Trattoria. Enjoyour our traditional homemade family cuisine as handcrafted gnocchi, traditional home made family cuisine as handcrafted gnocchi fettuccine, tagliatelle andand mozzarella are prepa prepared with and fettuccine, tagliatelle mozzarella, red daily daily with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

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A true taste in the Overberg.

-Fully Licenced-

The Stanford Players presents ...

SNOW WH HITE

The “Trattoria” of Don Gelato Stanford

RSVP by 13 December.

Bookings & Information:

karin@grootbosfoundation.org w w w. g r o o t b o s f o u n d a t i o n . o r g

LIVING SOUNDTRACK

Tea and the Queen Andrew Herriot sways to the rhythm of 'High Life' with a gin-and-tonic

Immediately after arriving in Accra, capital of Ghana, I was accosted with the fascinating rhythm ‘High Life’. This national music was hardly part of my Second (slow adagio) Movement but this was Africa and it was very humid. This sometimes resulted in an unavoidable sluggishness in demeanour. However, these lively sounds were to be part of my living soundtrack while I wrestled with the preparation of Ghanaian mathematics teachers at the old Nkrumah Ideological Institute. This institute had been transformed into the Advanced Teacher Training College (ATTC), which would soon become a fully accredited university. My good friend, educational psychologist Welshman Brian, whom I met for the first time, collected us at the airport, greeted us and drove the family fifty miles along the Atlantic coast to the small fishing village of Winneba. This was to be our campus home with more 'High Life' sounds booming from the cramped, 24/7 Star Beer bars. The sound was endemic and engaging across the so-called White Man’s Grave (it was 1972), as was malaria and yellow fever – hence the daily pill chloroquine (Gin and Tonic were a good substitute!).

I asked Brian, 'How did you get through security at the airport?' 'Easy!' he said in his strong Welsh valley singing accent, 'I showed them my library ticket!'

This was West Africa with all its blemishes, naiveté, glory and colourful people.

But no piano!

Wait a minute! The British Government in all its Foreign Policy wisdom advised employee expats to purchase a Grundig Yacht Boy 206 world radio receiver, especially if assigned to remote Colonies. This was to keep abreast with British News and the important cultural preoccupations of life such as music, literature and, not least, home politics. It was the best buy I ever made. I still have my Grundig today, 43 years later, and it works perfectly. I can tune into JazzFordian Janet Marshall on Whale Coast 96FM instantly. My then 6 year old daughter, Mandy to this day, still remembers amusingly how I held my Grundig to my ear to listen to the sounds of the BBC World Service. I also resorted to purchasing the very best sound Turntable Player, a Bang and Olufsen. These iconic memories return when I listen to clarinettist John Carter's piece depicting the history of African Americans, their capture and subsequent shipment as slaves to the New World. I have one tale, though, that could be linked to my sound track.

I was driving the 50 miles to Accra on a shopping trip and, to my astonishment, a splendid Rolls was parked on the roadside with the number plate CD 1 (Corps Diplomatique 1) – the British High Commissioner’s posh vehicle was down and out! I recognised him and humbly offered him a lift in my electric blue Ford Escort (my cassette was playing Deep Purple). Arriving at his very High Residence in Accra I was warmly entertained with tea and the expected vinyl chamber music!

Subsequently I was invited to the QBP (Queen’s Birthday Party) at the residence.

I have to say that from then on I was summoned to QBPs not only in Ghana but in every other country where I was contracted as an 'expert'. As to the music soundtrack aspect, what could be more appropriate as a Cadenza ending to my Second Movement than 'God Save The Queen'?

Lesotho (Basutoland) is next on the itinerary and the beginning of my lively Third Andrew and his Grundig Yacht Movement. Enjoy your wonderful seasonal Boy 206. tidings.

The Martian James Yeats feels that Ridley Scott just keeps getting better (Spoilers below)

As far as directors go, Ridley Scott is one of the greatest. In his latest film, 'The Martian’, he shows that he only gets better with time. Of the movies Scott has directed, ‘Blade Runner’ (1982) and ‘Gladiator’ (2000) were my favourites until now.

‘The Martian’ is set in the (near) future. A team of astronauts is collecting samples and data on the Red Planet when suddenly a huge storm erupts. The crew scramble to make it back to their vessel in time. Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is reluctant to leave and falls behind in the mad dash to get away. A satellite breaks apart and the debris hits Watney, flinging him out of sight. The crew try find him but the storm is just too strong and they leave the planet, abandoning Watney who is presumed dead.

Watney wakes soon after the storm passes and manages to get back to the habitat station and tend his wounds.

There is no communication with earth and he realizes that the next manned mission to Mars is only scheduled to happen in four years’ time. At best he has enough rations for a year but he is determined to make it to the four year mark and possible rescue. He is a botanist and continues his ‘mission’ to grow crops on a planet where nothing grows and also manufacture a form of water to hydrate himself. Viewers experience his tension and anxiety through his do or die tasks.

Matt Damon is incredible in his role and the audience keeps track of his day to day activities through his video log. In this hostile environment things tend to go wrong on a dime. Along with the daily difficulties of trying to survive, Watney is also locked in a battle with loneliness and the preservation of his own sanity.

Everyone has imagined being stranded on an island, of having to survive and find a way back home. Robinson Crusoe gave us the idea that one can have fun living alone and can possibly make unexpected friends.

Unfortunately Mars has no Man Friday living on the other side; just four years of surviving and waiting.

I thought that knowing the storyline before watching the movie would somehow spoil it for me, but this was not the case. I was captivated from the start. Damon gives an Oscar winning performance and the movie has everything I look for in a great film… tension, suspense, humour and hope.

Fun Fact In the shot in which Mark Watney regains consciousness after being stranded on Mars, the cameraman is visible in the reflection of his space helmet.

Cosy cattery and kennel in lovely country atmosphere.

Qualified dog trainer.

Well balanced diets, love and care.

028 - 3410 961 STANFORD RIVER TALK 19

classifieds There is an HONESTY BOX at Stanford Tourism where you can pay for your classifieds. Please enclose the amount in an envelope or design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za • cell: 079 523 8453 SMALL ADS: R1 a word • BOXED ADS: R95

FOR SALE ORBITREK Complete body work out machine. Excellent condition R700 ono. p 083 6751116 INTHUSIASM NATURAL and Organic Make-up orders. p Ruby yokogirls@gmail.com 072 753 8411.

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

COMPUTER HELP Are you struggling with technology? Don’t know how to upload photos, use Windows, Facebook, etc? Call Ruby and I’ll happily come to your house to help! R50/hour. p 072 753 8411.

FOR SALE COLDROOM USED FOR WILD FLOWERS 10.8 x 7.5 x 2.45m. Condensing Unit Model CSM 4568Z-C3. Blower coils (x2) Model HSR-303-4R-6F Cell 072 345 9057 jan@traderoots.co.za

Vintage Beauty pedicures, manicures, facials massages, waxes, make-up Jacolene 082 357 1245, Victoria Centre Stanford

DOMESTIC WORKER Rosie October p 076 2031 183 DOMESTIC WORKER Felicity Benjamin p 063 249 9909

• hedge trimming • tree felling & pruning • chainsaw & operator hire 25 years exp. Relocated from Cape Town Free quotes & advice Call Aidan on 079 984 7646

Ann’s Kitchen creates home style meals, which can be delivered to your home or self-catering cottage. Meals are prepared with free range chicken / eggs and where possible, locally sourced ingredients.

Menus are available on request or can be found on the Ann’s Kitchen facebook page.

Ann 076 3327 490 • annskitchencooking@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/pages/Anns-Kitchen/1629489837298579

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

BOXED ADVERT R95

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

AFRICAN HORSE COMPANY

TO LET INDUSTRIAL SPACE Stanford Business Park Prominent position on the R43 Sizes from 330m2 up to 1200m2

Cell 072 345 9057 STANFORD RIVER TALK 20

jan@traderoots.co.za

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

Private sale A large, magnificent plot is for sale in Buiten Street which retains the rural charm of Stanford’s farming days, with the convenience of being part of this wonderful village.

SIZE: 976m2 PRICE: R850 000 CONTACT DI ON 082 558 3916 OR di.mohr@iafrica.com

local services & facilities ACCOMMODATION A Stanford Country Cottage Bambi Cottage Beloftebos Cottages Morton Cottage Mosaic Farm Reiersvlei Stanford River Lodge The Country Cottage Villa on the Bay Walshacres Riverside

.

082 320 0982 082 781 1704 082 391 5331 082 450 3970 028 313 2814 082 213 0512 028 341 0444 083 553 0663 082 336 1573 082 614 6322

List your business for just R12.50 a month (only R150/year).

Email: design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or telephone 079 523 8453 ESTATE AGENTS Pam Golding Stanford Village Properties

028 341 0708 082 893 2282 072 111 9321

GARDEN SERVICES Earthworm Organics

072 825 7534

HAIR Jeanne Retief

072 318 2478

HOTEL Stanford Hotel

082 781 1704

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

HOUSE MANAGEMENT Stanford Country Cottages Village Laundromat

082 320 0982 072 616 0976

ARCHITECTURE Guy Whittle Grant Anderson Maureen Wolters

076 113 2741 072 364 3694 082 450 3970

HOME MAINTENANCE Stanford Country Cottages

082 320 0982

BICYCLES Bicycle servicing and repair

073 318 5078

INTERIORS Kiwinet Maureen Wolters

028 341 0209 082 450 3970

MASSAGE & HEALTH Stanford Health Practice

082 481 8285

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

028 3410 693 073 318 5078 083 310 0952

PETS & PET CARE Stanford Kennels Syringa Country Kennels

028 341 0961 028 341 0961

PLUMBING Mike Moody

083 316 1872

BUILDING Stanford Bricks

028 341 0685

CUPBOARDS Your Style Cupboards

076 222 2063 082 327 6518

COMPUTERS Compuworld SMB Solutions 084 705 6719

028 313 2814

ELECTRICIAN HCD Electrical

084 769 1053

weekly timetable

CONFERENCE CENTRE Mosaic Farm

RESTAURANTS 1892 Stanford Spookhuis Barke Restaurant

Birkenhead Galley

KC's Restaurant Marianas Springfontein Eats The Vine

REMOVALS The Little Removals Company

028 313 2814 028 341 0116 028 341 0013 028 341 0719 028 341 0272 028 341 0651 028 341 0662

074 381 1111

TELEVISION/DSTV Rod Dacre Television

073 160 4495

WEDDING VENUES Beloftebos Mosaic Farm Stanford Hotel Villa on the Bay

082 391 5331 028 313 2814 082 781 1704 082 336 1573

WINE CELLAR & SALES Springfontein Wine Estate Stanford Hills Estate

028 341 0651 072 371 7546 028 3410 841

WOOD

Walshacres Farm

028 341 0685 / 082 898 4889

Tuesday 17:30 & Friday 08:30, Maitri Yoga, Tasha Saha, 076 968 8608.

Monday 09:00, Yoga, 084 685 2641, Viv von der Heyden, 23 Quick Street.

Monday 18:00, Running Time Trials 5km, corner Adderley and Longmarket, last Monday of each month at Stanford Hills Estate.

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

Tuesday & Thursday 17:00 to 18:00, Tae Bo, Okkie Smuts School Hall, Ronnie 083 655 4521.

Tuesday & Thursday 17:30, Cycling, cnr de Bruin & Moore Streets, Sunday 08:00 Caltex Garage David Morrison 082 321 7996, John Finch 082 378 1935.

Wednesday, 18:30, Rotary Stanford Club Meeting, Don Gelato. Everyone welcome. Lana 082 216 4398.

Thursday 18:30 - 21:30 Heal Your Life® Evening Group Sessions 071 382 9033.

Friday 09:00, Yoga, 084 685 2641, Viv von der Heyden, 23 Quick Street.

Friday, Canoe Time Trials, Slipway Church St, John Finch 028 341 0444, Jan Malan 082 452 9877.

WHERE TO WORSHIP IN STANFORD NG GEMEENTE STANFORD Sondae 9:00 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. Jan Troost 072 345 Jan Troost 072 3459057. 9057.

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) NOV

82

135

OCT

40

50

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

NOV

OCT

E. coli STANDARD (0/100ml)

0

0

Total Coliform bacteria STANDARD (10/100ml)

0

0

Heterotrophic Plate Count STANDARD (5000/100ml) 0

0

STANFORD RIVER TALK 21

Sharing choices A message from the Christian Forum

Throughout our lives we are confronted with choices and many times the choice we have to make is not between what is right and what is wrong, but rather what is good and what is best, where two alternatives are equally attractive and workable. In Joshua 24:15.

Joshua told the people that they had to choose whom they would serve and follow, stating to them the alternatives between following God and choosing idols.

When I was in matric we faced a situation very much like that which many are facing today. We had no money for further studies and there was very little opportunity for work; a choice between zero and nothing. The Lord was in control and opened a choice, a door through which I could enter, a direction I had never thought of before. I still had to make the decision and be prepared for the work that it entailed and this and the many other choices that followed in my life determined how my life was shaped. In everything the Lord was in control. I can now look back and thank the Lord for walking with me through this maze of questions and decisions. I firmly believe that God will guide and help us in the decisions we face in life if we will allow Him to do so and seek His wisdom. In James 1:5 we are told that if anybody lacks wisdom he need only ask God, who gives liberally.

What choices are we going to make in our lives? Are we willing to accept the outcomes and responsibilites? Ask God for His guidance even for insignificant choices like trying to decide what Christmas gift to give a loved one. What about a much deeper consideration of how to bless someone this year at this festival time. How can I enrich some little known or little liked person’s life and so praise God by following His commandment to love others. This truly is a decision which may have consequences one would or could never dream of; a result which may have an eternal consequence.

We celebrate God’s wonderful gift to us at this time of the year but need to contemplate our acceptance and use of this wonderful gift of salvation. This is a gift to be shared and utilised by getting others to accept it too. Invite others to also accept God’s gift to us.

Choose to share!

Rev. Hildie Pansegrouw

A game for brains of all sizes

For lovers of team board games like 30 Seconds, Balderdash and Pictionary, clear a space in your cupboard for Cranium. Cranium is fun for the whole family, and is a bit batty. It is nothing like Trivial Pursuit although its name can be misleading.

Teams race around the board on the fast or slow track, depending on which answers they get right. Teams roll a higgeldypiggeldy dice and answer questions ranging from Humdingers and Sculptorades to Selectaquests and Blank Outs. Cranium smacks of charades, hangman, cryptic crosswords and about four other board games all rolled into one.

On one hilarious night, I was in a team who had to choose someone to spell 'Statistics' backwards while another had to mould a weed eater out of playdough. Fear not, more linear and Scientific gamers will find comfort in the Factoid and word questions while the theatrical types will be whistling “I just called to say, 'I love you.'” Cranium is fantastic fun for all generations, and is well worth the slightly higher price as it feels like an abundant and generously large game that encapsulates the best of all other popular parlour games.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 22

Introducing baby Nina and her family Nina Alondrah arrived into the world on Sunday, 4 October at 1.32am in Stanford. She was born in water, wide-eyed, with a head full of funky hair, in a birthing pool under the absolutely wonderful guidance of The Cape Midwife, Natasha Stadler. Although her birth was relatively quick it was not complication-free. She was a ‘sterrenkijker’ (star gazer), born forehead up and with the umbilical cord wrapped around her tummy. The first real wrigglings and sounds of life only came after Kirsten, Gerd, Quiella and some anxious minutes on her dad’s baby Nina. warm chest. She has since made up for this with her highly expressive and vocal communication. She joins her parents, Kirsten Neke and Gerd Pieper, and older sister, Qiella Safiya, at their home Laughing Waters farm in Sandies Glen/ Sondagskloof. Nina’s second name, Alondrah, means 'Defender of Humankind' whilst her birthday is on St Francis of Assisi/ International Animal Day. Her sister Qiella’s name means 'Bringer of Peace' … as a good friend put it, 'No pressure then.' Natasha’s expertise in guiding the birth and Nina’s post-birth care was incredible. I recommend her without hesitation. And perhaps you will meet her - in response to my invitation she laughed that she had long before considered Stanford as a perfect retirement spot.

Kirsten Neke

Omega John Carstens 20 July 1931 – 20 November 2015

Born in Constantia, Cape Town, John was one of seven children.

As a little boy he became a sea scout at the Royal Cape Yacht Club and as a young man, he frequently sailed the Paragon III around the Cape Peninsula. He became the chef aboard the yacht and later even fed the Mayor of Cape Town whilst on a trip.

After school, John started working for the Cape Times, but his love of the ocean soon brought him to Hermanus where he was a Perlemoen diver for a while.

Fifty-nine years ago after John married Carol, they setup home in Hermanus. During this time John opened a photographic studio and soon thereafter his love for boats found him opening his first water skiing marina at Prawn Flats where many families spent the summer holidays learning to ski.

During the early sixties, after losing everything in the big fire, John and Carol bought the Lagoon Lodge Motel, renamed it Prawn Flats and continued the skiing marina. Here they also opened their first restaurant The Whistling Prawn. A new chapter in their lives found them buying The Green House and turning it into a renowned restaurant.

Establishing Carstens Construction, the Stanford Neighbourhood Watch, the running of the Stanford Inn, and the development of the Victoria Close were some of his many Stanford ventures.

John Carstens lived a full life. He was an adventurer, an energetic, charming and charismatic gentleman. He was a man of many different talents and he wore many hats, but everything he did, he did well. He lived surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great grandchild.

John has left us with many beautiful memories and will be missed dearly by his wife Carol, his family and friends.

Sandy Jardine

happy birthday Sonja Louw 4 December

Jill Smith 3 December

Jenny Hayes 11 December

Taylor and Courtney Anderson 17 December

OddEven Sudoku

Gerry Fourie 25 December

If your birthday or a special occasion is coming up, please email design@stanfordrivertalk.co.za or sms 079 523 8453.

Mike Horn 4 December

Camryn Smith 6 December

Maureen Wolters 12 December

Tatiana Slingers 13 December

Bryan Robertson 14 December

Sandy Jardine 17 December

Darren Moody 18 December

Lyn Morris 26 December

Jessica Phillips 19 December

Cobus van Niekerk Maureen Diedericks 28 December 28 December

Each puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid containing given clues in various places, and one or more of the given clues are located in gray squares. The object is to fill all empty squares so that the numbers 1 to 9 appear exactly once in each row, column and 3x3 box, and all gray squares contain either odd or even numbers according to the given clues.

Tracey Algar 10 December

Russel Metcalf 9 December

Sarah Staples 15 December

Michael Thompson 17 December

Kevin Husk 16 December Natalie Husk 21 December

John Finch 29 December

Matt Chancey 28 December

Lungile Mathews Mancoba 24 December

Sean Ingles 30 December

Sagittarius 22 Nov – 21 Dec Sagittarius, half human and half-horse, is the centaur of mythology, the learned healer who forms a bridge between earth and heaven. Also known as the Archer, Sagittarius is represented by the symbol of a bow and arrow.

Sagittarius make positive, excellent friends with no strings attached. They love adventure, truth and freedom and insist on their independence. They are well-adjusted and welcome change.

STANFORD RIVER TALK 23