Family notices

Congratulations


To our wonderful Mum and Dad (SHIRLEY AND GOFF CARBUTT)

(25 Feb 2011) Congratulations on your 5 year anniversary since your Kidney transplant.

You are both such amazing parents and people and we couldn't have been more spoilt by it.

Love you more than anything.

Your terrors

Adrian and Stace xxx

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 Births

John and Wallis Sullivan are very pleased to announce the arrival of their grandson, Joseph Michael Lucien Sullivan, born to Michael and Sophie in Stourbridge, UK, on 22nd February 2011. God is very bountiful and grandchildren bring great joy.

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CONDOLENCES

CALDERWOOD, Alistair

Highly respected and long time resident of Bulawayo died peacefully at the grand age of 93 in Glencairn, Cape, on 19th February, 2011, will be sadly missed by his friends and colleagues. Our sincere condolences to the family.

Paul and Elspeth Goodwin.

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EVA DENHOLM 92 years of age, beloved Mother of Carol and Grandmother (Nan) of David McCann who passed away 2 years ago on the 25th February.

Not a day goes by when we dont think of you and all the truly wonderful happy times we shared. You were my best friend as well as my Mom and I give thanks to God for You. You suffered terribly at the end but are now Resting Peacefully in a Beautiful Garden with all the trees you so loved. We love you Mom/Nan.

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Shepherd, Letty

My heart felt condolences to all the Sheperd family. I worked with Letty in the Goods Offices in Bulawayo during the 1970's and Brian at some of the stations he was based.

Charl Steyn

( charl-steyn@talktalk.net )

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Shepherd, Letty.
Mother of Shirley and Peter, Geoff and Rose, Ian and Denise.
Grandmother of Barry and Heidi, David, Deborah, Kevin and Sian, Michael and Jeremy.
Great grandmother of Cameron and Alexander.
Passed away suddenly but peacefully on Monday 21st of February. She will be sorely missed by all of us, may she rest in peace.
Service to be advised.

Banks to return SA coins

Monday, 28 February 2011 20:18

Herald Reporters

LOCAL banks are set to return R8 million worth of coins to South Africa that they have been holding onto since last year because retailers have resisted buying them to ease change shortages that consumers have long complained about.

President of the Bankers Association of Zimbabwe Mr John Mushayavanhu yesterday said they had been sitting on the coins for nearly eight months now.

A shortage of rand and US coins in circulation means people often spend more than they intend to in shops so that their bills can become round figures.

Shops also give out credit notes indicating how much change customers are owed, but these are only redeemable in the specific branches where they are given.

The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe has said this has contributed to the high cost of living in Zimbabwe as people spend more than they want to.

Banks had sought to ease the problem by buying coins in South Africa, which they offered retailers at prevailing rand-US dollar exchange rates, but the latter appear not to be interested.

Said Mr Mushayavanhu: "We have already received app-roval from the South African Central Bank and we will be returning the coins anytime now."

Mr Denford Mberi of the Retailers Association of Zimbabwe is on record as saying the banks were trying to profit from the coins by selling them higher than the exchange rate.

Many Harare retailers have maintained an artificial rand-US coins exchange rate of 10:1.

This means R5 is equivalent to 50 US cents.

The actual rate would have R5 at around 71 USc as the South African currency has long since gained on the greenback.

Oddly, Harare's informal traders apply more realistic rates and even commuter omnibus operators have tried to give people value for their money in coin terms by charging a normal trip at R4 or 50 USc.

Street vendors also have coins and these are easily changing hands, a development that has stoked people's fury as to why formal establishments cannot give them a fair deal as well.

Harare retailers have failed to explain why they can apply the prevailing rate quite easily on notes, but not on smaller denominations and for change purposes.

AfroFood Julius Nyerere Way branch said they only applied prevailing rates to amounts of R50 or more, but would not explain why this was so.

TM Mbuya Nehanda Street, OK Robson Manyika and Spar Joina City also had no reason as to why they undervalued South African coins.

Some of these retailers have branches in Bulawayo where similar problems are not being experienced.

Mr Mberi referred all questions to a Mr Ndebele at Truworths' headquarters in Harare, who was not available for comment.

Finance Minister Tendai Biti has for months said Zimbabwe will soon get US coins, but these have not been seen.

People have also questioned why the finance minister is prepared to bring in coins from across the Atlantic Ocean when the South African option is readily available much closer home.

The public has called for legislation to be put in place to force retailers to be fair.

"The Government must make it illegal for this daylight profiteering which these shops are practising.

"They are forcing us to buy useless things like sweets and if you add up all the money that people are forced to use, you will find that they have extra sales of over US$100 in each shop a day," railed Mr Cosmas Dumba of Warren Park who had been forced to take lollipops as change after buying a cough mixture in OK First Street.

The situation is much better in Bulawayo where the actual exchange rate is applied.

For instance, kombis in Bulawayo generally charge R3 per trip and coins are readily available as change in just almost every shop.

Posted from Facesbook -

Genie Driscoll

2:18pm Feb 28

Restaurants etc in Salisbury - way back when:

Since independence Harare lost the popular Windsor Hotel on Baker Avenue. It housed the Colony, where Edwin and Rachelle played twin pianos to international cabaret standards to discerning diners in formal finery. The Lincoln Room had fantastic value for money food in luxurious surroundings. It closed late November 1980 when the set three-course lunch, featuring baron of beef, rolled to the table and carved to order was $1,50.

1890 was the cocktail bar. Popular with lunchtime philanderers, it shut at
2:30 sharp, when drinkers moved next door to Branch Office (ex-Blue Room)
opening 10:30 t o 10:30. Some heroic boozers returned to 1890, which shut at
11:30.
The Egg and I was in the same building, as was Lion's Den.

In second Street on the corner you could buy fab Icecream cones for $0.25c, and Steers; behind it served wonderful burgers for $0.50c. At lunch time the QE girls and GHS would queue up to buy burgers and icecream with our pocket money.

The day the Windsor closed (earlier than announced to avoid vandalism seen
at Meikles' Long Bar by "souvenir hunters") beer was 38c; bar lunch 35c.

Opposite was a complex housing the raucous Round Bar and Le Coq d'Or where
little French was heard. The building was owned by a religious sect, which
left the country at UDI. The premises were banned from selling drink or
tobacco; dancing was it. For years they thought it was a library!

Other favorite bands included The Bats and The Drifters, who changed their band

Name to The Holy Black. Lead Guitarist and vocals Nic Pickard eventually relocated to Johannesburg and opened his own studio, “Memphis Studios” and began a new

Career catering to the newly formed South African TV station, with jingles etc. Sadly He passed away last year 2010 from Cancer.

Playboy was nearby, as was La Boheme: nothing to do with opera, it offered
strippers of often-venerable years and was a target of an inexpertly thrown
grenade during the "bush war". The entrance fee for Sunset Strip was 2
shillings and sixpence." The Gentlemen" were the popular Rock band that
played at Saturday Lunchtimes and Sunday Evenings!

Three major Chinese outlets closed after 1980: Golden Dragon, a hangout of
pre-independence Ministry of Information people, the bar a favorite with
international journalists,

The Bamboo Inn, an appealing pub/restaurant run by the Kee family and later
by an Irishman called (of course) Paddy and The Mandarin, next to Meikles Store
run by the Law-Smith’s who finally gave up the ghost and took their restaurant to
Johannesburg, South Africa. It had no bar. But I loved having lunches after school
There. Both the Kees and the Law-Smith’s were related and my sister and I were best
Friends with them, as they lived next door to us in Gunhill.

Down the way the Pink Panther also had a grenade lobbed in during the hondo.
Run by two aged sisters from the Caucasus, they served delicious kebabs at
the original site, later Linquenda House. One also owned the Georgian Grill.
PP later became Alfredo's then Front Page: restaurants with lively pubs,
gregarious regulars, and liberal hours. The "Page" owners: a blonde and a
brunette belonged in international glamour magazines.

Then of course you had the Ambassador Hotel which had brilliant Buffet’s for $2.00 p.p
Every Sunday. I miss it.

The best whole chicken was to be found at the Lighthouse Restaurant opposite the Vistarama

Cinemas in Avondale Road, and across the street was Munmace Enterprises co-owned by my mother Moreen Tregaskis and Hugh Munmace. They built anything from Dams, to Roads, and even four yachts, prominently displayed in their huge yards for a year. People used to come to the fence to watch the yachts being built.

Pino's in Union Avenue (Kwame Nkrumah) was arguably the best seafood joint
around, but gained notoriety when someone complained and the Portuguese
Proprietor whacked him over the head with a flambe pan.

The Bombay duck between Jameson (Samora Machel) and Central was run,
improbably, by ex-BSAP troopie, Tug Wilson; it served iridescent curries all
hours for next to nothing. .25c.
In Greendale Avenue was the locals' idea of an English Pub, The Red Fox...
At Msasa, The Red Lantern, run by S-W African (Namibian) Germans specialized
in eisbein, knackwurst and bratwurst.

Beverly Rocks was a hospitable hostel: good food, great music, lovely
gardens, (now a government training centre.)

Going east, the old Jamaica Inn was run by various characters including
cross eyed Ruby Strutt, who was married to Jimmy Shields, the racing Driver;
an ex-Federal hangman and Commonwealth boxing gold medal winner. Good stop
there on the way to or from Three Monkeys in Marandellas (Marondera) for
lunch. (Now a religious institute.)

Glen Lorne's local was the festive Highlands Park, run first of all by the
Nicholls family and then by ex-Kenya big game hunter Toby Royston. Great
dinner dances, lovely Sunday lunches, cream teas in the garden.

Down the road at Chisipete Shopping Centre was The Howf of Chisholm, which
was super

The Spaniards, Marlborough (ex-Quorn) served incredibly good food, except
for the soup, which was watery, insipid and costly. . You queued and
often cleared the table yourself. The food was delicious and you either
brought your own wine or bought rotgut Barolo. Guido was deaf and when you
came to pay he asked what you had and worked it out in his head.

Sardinian Sandro also ran Eros: fine Mediterranean food and friendly bar and
Sandrock's, for back-packers. Close by was Taco's with punters Chalet as a
suitcase bomb exploded at Woolworth's nearby with many fatalities? Regulars
helped survivors. (Barbours was the real target.) On quieter Chalet days,
great juicy joints were trundled in at lunch; patrons sliced their own for
50c with pickles, mustard, horseradish chips and rolls.

There was the Park Lane Hotel and there was a circular restaurant called the Kya Nyama opposite the entrance. Steaks were sold here by weight and were amongst the best in Salisbury. There was another Italian restaurant called Guidos in Sinoia St that served the biggest T bones I have ever seen. My dad called them Brontosaurus Steaks. In Avondale the Acropolis run by the owner Spiros, made the best spare ribs in Rhodesia served with mountains of chips (fries), Two plates would serve 2 couples easily and he would give you a take away container for a doggy bag to take any uneaten graze home.

Up the road was the George Hotel where in 1972 a beer cost 20 cents and a vodka and lemonade around 60 cents. Crisps were 10 cents so add 2 packets of Willards salt and vinegar and you could get all this for $1.00.

The city's best pies were served in a motor sport-theme cocktail bar.

There was a civilized snooker room (Although I was never allowed more then a peek in.) It became a motor parts store, then a Spar.

Park Lane (now GMB HQ) the Kaya Nyama steakhouse was its printed "Doggy
bags" as the steaks were so enormous.
The Clovagalix, on Fife Avenue, caught fire once too often, becoming Cafe Med,
Borrowdale. Caruso's on 4th/Samora was a great Chips d'Oliviera club-cum
Portuguese pub/restaurant.
As Vila Peri, it moved to 3rd/Baines where the usually grubby Pointe is now.
Next-door was Fat Mama's, previously Spago's. Now called Mama Mia's it
thrives at Newlands.

The Cellar, Marimba Park was tops with journalists and the printing trade,
serving fab whisky prawns, real rosti; the upstairs bar often seemed
the centre of the universe.

Kamfinsa's Bizarre Bar (later IT, previously Buster's, The Cockpit, etc) was
hugely popular with yuppies, briefly with buppies; once a licence to print
money. New owners cut corners. Now it's a swimming pool sundries shop.
Meikles closed- The Mirabelle, The Causerie, Flagstaff and Captain's Cabin,
Bagatelle and La Chandelle. Monomotapa lost 1001 Horsemen and Bali Hai, but
gained La Francais from Avondale.

High -Chaparral (ex-Nick's Bar), Avondale opened all hours: a good greasy
spoon where coffee and steak rolls helped avoid the worst "mornings after",
especially after Le Matelot (ex-Lighthouse Restaurant), died a death. Aphrodite,
Strathaven, was a superb Greek restaurant; Demi's near State Lotteries
closed due to commuter omnibuses' anarchistic parking. The original owners
set up Tavern Bacchus, near Reps, which then became the Manchurian.

Up the street, Copacabana served wonderful Portuguese food, having
previously been White Lotus.

Himalaya, nearby, did colossal searing noon curries at minimal cost but was
avoided after dusk. Rosedale's/Rose Bowl/Rose & Crown in Hatfield was a
superb Sunday lunch venue with live entertainment.

One of the best seafood platters you could ever eat was at the Kentucky,
also in Hatfield. When another outfit bought the place, proposing to shut
it, locals raised a widely supported petition in protest. Courts ruled in
favour of the petitioners but it's closed anyway

Robert Eric Rae

late of Avon Electrical, beloved husband of Shirley, passed away on 21st February 2011.


Will be Sadly mourned by Shirley, Lindsay and Ren÷, Sonya and Clive, Alison and Grant and grandchildren Scott, Jason, Kirsty-Lee, Laura and Ryan.

Condolences to Shirley and all the family, from Stan and Rosemary

MEMORIAL SERVICE
will be held at Arundel School Chapel on Monday 28th February at 11a.m.
E-mail robrae@mango.zw

Notices

FATHER NOEL SCOTT will be receiving the Justice and Peace Award from the Diocese of Matabeleland on Sunday 27 February 2011 at 5.30 pm.
The venue will be Saint John's Cathedral.
Friends and the public are all invited to this ceremony.

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Births

John and Wallis Sullivan are very pleased to announce the arrival of their grandson, Joseph Michael Lucien Sullivan, born to Michael and Sophie in Stourbridge, UK, on 22nd February 2011. God is very bountiful and grandchildren bring great joy.

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CONDOLENCES
Letty "Duckie" Shepherd.
The funeral for Letty Shepherd will be held at the Hillside Presbyterian Church, on Saddon Avenue, directly behind the Hillside Post Office, at 3 pm on Monday the 28th of February.

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CONDOLENCES

JOHANNES H. OBERHOLSTER AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS OBIE /HANNES/OR STINKIE
BELOVED AND DEVOTED HUSBAND OF MARIETJIE. PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY AT HOME WITH MARIETJIE AFTER AN ILLNESS SO BRAVELY BORNE.
HE IS NOW RESTING WITH HIS GOD AND FATHER WHOM HE LOVED SO MUCH AND SERVED ALL HIS LIFE.
MARIETJIE APPRECIATES THAT FRIENDS MAY WANT TO SEND FLOWERS, HOWEVER, SHE WOULD LIKE YOU RATHER TO SEND A DONATION TO ISLAND HOSPICE AS A TOKEN OF THANKS FOR THEIR GREAT AND UNSELFISH COMPASSION,PROFESSIONALISM AND LOVE WHILST THEY ASSISTED IN MAKING OBIE'S LIFE MORE BEARABLE WHEN HE WAS IN SO MUCH PAIN.
THE THANKSGIVING SERVICE WILL BE HELD
ON TUESDAY 1ST MARCH, 2011
AT 3 PM
AT THE DUTCH REFORMED CHURCH
GEORGE SILUNDIKA STREET/13TH AVENUE.
PLEASE ACCEPT THIS INTIMATION.

PLEASE TEL HESTER ON 246634 EVENINGS SHOULD YOU WISH ANY MORE INFORMATION.

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It is with sadness that take leave of you Oom Stinkie. You were an inspiration to us our whole lives. Sure going to miss our rugby afternoons.
Go in peace our beloved Oom Stinkie.
We love you Ben and Daniel
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EVA DENHOLM 92 years of age, beloved Mother of Carol and Grandmother (Nan) of David McCann who passed away 2 years ago on the 25th February.
Not a day goes by when we dont think of you and all the truly wonderful happy times we shared. You were my best friend as well as my Mom and I give thanks to God for You. You sufferred terribly at the end but are now Resting Peacefully in a Beautiful Garden with all the trees you so loved. We love you Mom/Nan.

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Shepherd, Letty.
Mother of Shirley and Peter, Geoff and Rose, Ian and Denise.
Grandmother of Barry and Heidi, David, Deborah, Kevin and Sian, Michael and Jeremy.
Great grandmother of Cameron and Alexander.
Passed away suddenly but peacefully on Monday 21st of February. She will be sorely missed by all of us, may she rest in peace.
Service to be advised.

Death and condolence messages

PHYLLIS DAPHNE DU TOIT (Nee Wyatt/Carlisle)

Ex - Spencer Farm, Selous
1924 - 2011

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing on of a most beloved Mother to Ian(Doug), Bobo, Sheri, Lori, Andy and Debbie-Jane, Grandmother to Kevin, Colleen, Tammy, Carey, Alea, Andy, Clint, Louise and Natalie and Great-Grandmother to Hannu, Ellu , Brendon, Dale, Ben, Danielle, Sarah Jane and Erin.
Anyone wishing to say their goodbye's are invited to Celebrate her life with us at the Memorial Service to be held at:
No. 6 Henry Hartley Avenue, Chegutu
Monday 28th February 2011
10.00 am for 10.30.am service

Please can the ladies be kind enough to contribute a plate of snacks
Contact: Debbie Tingle - Cell No: 0773 987240

ALLAN BUCKBY
(ex Mashco, Banket, Centenary & Chinhoyi)
To all friends

Allan passed away in Johannesburg on the 11th February 2011 from complications after an operation for an aneurism.
We will celebrate his life with a service at the Emerald Hill Community Church (Gateway Primary School) on the Chase, Wretham Rd, on Thursday afternoon 24th February 2011 at 2:30.
We will have tea and a chat after the service. A plate of eats to share would be great.
Margie 04- 335233 0772-237430
e-mail - buckby@zim.co.zw

ALLAN BUCKBY

(ex Mashco, Banket, Centenary & Chinhoyi)
To all friends

Allan passed away in Johannesburg on the 11th February 2011 from complications after an operation for an aneurism.

We will celebrate his life with a service at the Emerald Hill Community Church (Gateway Primary School) on the Chase, Wretham Rd, on Thursday afternoon 24th February 2011 at 2:30.

We will have tea and a chat after the service. A plate of eats to share would be great.

Margie 04- 335233 0772-237430

e-mail - buckby@zim.co.zw

US govt agrees to supply coins

Monday, 21 February 2011 16:48

Staff Writer

FORGET change problems, getting a token or a sweet as change and being stuck
with greasy soiled notes. This is because the United States Federal Reserve
has agreed to supply coins and replace soiled notes to Zimbabwean banks in a
bid to end change problems in the economy, businessdigest has established.

According to sources, representatives Bankers Association of Zimbabwe led by
its president and FBC Bank boss John Mushayavanhu met Finance minister
Tendai Biti last week to map a way forward in dealing with change problems in the economy.

The sources, said the US Federal Reserve have “formally” agreed that
Zimbabwe’s economy is now dollarised and will now supply Zimbabwe with coins
and replace notes.

Officials from the Finance ministry will soon depart for the US to airlift
the coins to Zimbabwe, the source said.
Banks and government, according to the sources have agreed to charter an Air
Zimbabwe flight to pick up the coins in the US. The flight costs will be met
by both government and banks.

Zimbabwe has been saddled with change problems since the introduction of
multi-currencies in February 2009.
Retailers are offering consumers credit notes, tokens and even sweets to
settle small change.
Mushavanhu on Wednesday declined to comment on the matter referring all
questions to Biti who was unreachable at the time of going to press.
In his 2011 budget statement, Biti said government had engaged the United
States Federal Reserve over possible provision of coins and replacement of
soiled notes to ease small change problems in the country.

Biti said: “I am pleased to advise on the fruitful interactions with the US
Department of the Treasury which stands ready to facilitate access to
acquisition of smaller denominated coins and replacement of soiled notes
through the US Federal Reserve and commercial banks. I will, therefore, be
finalising on this in conjunction with the banking system, that way
resolving the matter of challenges with change and coins.”

“The availability of both US dollar and rand coins will do away with the
challenges posed by the current need to apply cross rates in giving change
in rand coins for transactions undertaken in US dollars,” Biti said.. “Whilst
this problem should be alleviated by electronic payment systems, the large
size of the informal sector and the lack of infrastructure for electronic
payment systems in rural areas necessitate the availability of large volumes
of small denominations”.

JOHANNES H. OBERHOLSTER AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS OBIE /HANNES/OR STINKIE


BELOVED AND DEVOTED HUSBAND OF MARIETJIE. PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY AT HOME WITH MARIETJIE AFTER AN ILLNESS SO BRAVELY BORNE.

HE IS NOW RESTING WITH HIS GOD AND FATHER WHOM HE LOVED SO MUCH AND SERVED ALL HIS LIFE.

MARIETJIE APPRECIATES THAT FRIENDS MAY WANT TO SEND FLOWERS, HOWEVER, SHE WOULD LIKE YOU RATHER TO SEND A DONATION TO ISLAND HOSPICE AS A TOKEN OF THANKS FOR THEIR GREAT AND UNSELFISH COMPASSION,PROFESSIONALISM AND LOVE WHILST THEY ASSISTED IN MAKING OBIE'S LIFE MORE BEARABLE WHEN HE WAS IN SO MUCH PAIN.

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS HAVE YET TO BE MADE.

PLEASE TEL HESTER ON 246634 EVENINGS SHOULD YOU WISH ANY MORE INFORMATION.

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LUIKEL THEO - beloved husband of Rose, passed away on 17/2/11 after a long illness. Fishing

buddy & best mate from Mlibizi, will be greatly missed, no more pain & suffering.

Our thoughts & prayers are with you Rose, you have endured so much take care.

Love you heaps, Brenda, Tony & families

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GEOFF CRIMES - One of the great Fairbridge Boys passed away in U.K. on Monday 14th February 2011

after a long illness. Will be remembered for his humour & great outlook on life. No more

pain or suffering. Tony & Brenda Baker

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"Time is quietly passing. Memories are everlasting"

In loving memory of ELEANOR (NORAH ) McEWAN, who passed away peacefully 13th February, after a long struggle. We have been friends since 1947 when a group of us girls formed the first softball Harlequin's team in Bulawayo. I have treasured your friendship , Norah, through 56 years of letter writing and three contact visits to and from New Zealand. Your friend Thelma McWatt (nee Wallace ).

Deepest sympathy from Dot Morgan (nee Horton ) another softballer living in New Zealand.

Dear friend of Sunday lunches & loving correspondent since I have been in New Zealand , Marie Gillespie.

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It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death in London of Geoff Crimes, formerly of Kariba. He was manager of a major removals company there for many years. Those who remember him will talk of his wonderful sense of humour and larger than life geniality. Geoff and his sister Lynne were sent out to Rhodesia as Fairbridge kids, and he went to Milton School. After many years at Kariba, tiger fishing and clubbing, he had to return to Britain due to kidney failure. At the time of his leaving his dialysis in Zimbabwe was costing well over three million dollars a week! He managed to make a good adjustment to London life, so very different from the bush life in Zimbabwe, and was given comprehensive health service benefits.

He managed to attend Fairbridge reunions in Cape Town and Australia, despite his ill health, and we often met up with him in London. He would accompany us to concerts at The Royal Albert Hall, and we were fortunate enough to have him as a guest at a swish lunch after my husband Mike's OBE investiture at The Palace. He leaves a son and daughter and grandchildren in S. Africa, and his dear sister Lynne in London..

Hamba gahle, shamwari. From Mike and Liz Davies, formerly of Bulawayo

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ANTHONY EDWARD BLATCH -

Dear brother of Peter John, Neville, David and Derek, died suddenly on Sunday 6th February aged 72. Peter John and Felicity and their sons and families extend their love and deepest sympathy to Deidre, her children, Greg, Shellee, Brendon and Louise, as well as all their families.

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JESSIE CAROLINE NESBITT

With much love from Margot and Manda

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This last week I saw a condolences message for a Jess Nesbitt and wonder if there is any way you can pass on or add my condolences to the next M Mirror. I worked with Digby many years ago as he was an agent for the fuel company I worked for, and I would just like to pass on how sad I am to read the about her passing , I met Jess just twice and both times I remember her as quiet and strong willed, and a warm person who welcomed us into her home .
chrisw@cjpchemicals.co.za
Chris Walden

The ZBC Licence teams are out in full force in most of Bulawayo's suburbs at the moment. - Harare as well!

The ZBC Licence teams are out in full force in most of Bulawayo's suburbs at the moment.


An 77 year old in Ilanda was asked this week, by a young female official who came to the gate, how old she was. The lady had already bought a licence and produced it, only to be told that " people over 75 are exempt, " but there would probably not be any refund".

A Morningside resident did not have a licence when the inspector arrived, and after being duly chastised she was issued with a warning ticket. She hurriedly purchased one at the Post Office and took it to the Hillside Police Station where she was fined US$20 on top of the cost of the license.

She later went to the Montrose ZTV Studios where she filled in an exemption form and it was sent to Harare, though she was told there would be no refund.

Another "avid watcher of ZTV" went to get a licence at Hillside Post Office and she asked about the exemption. She was told that there is no such thing - literally " you will have to pay until you die ! "

An elderly male pensioner living near Greenvale Shopping Centre was also told by two male officials that he was exempt, but an older female living two doors away was told there was no exemption.

Does anyone know the correct facts?

Who decided that 75 is the exemption age? surely 65 is more realistic, bearing in mind what the life expectancy rates are in Zimbabwe ...

I hope that more people will also air their views on this topic ! To watch ZTV is an impossibility, the picture is hazy and the sound quality is shocking.

To listen to ZBC on the radio is a trial - the sound is appalling - I tried to listen to a bit of the live golf commentary during the Zimbabwe Open Golf Championships in Harare and it was an absolute embarrassment.

Come on ZBC/TV pull your socks up, you used to be one of the finest radio and Television stations in Africa

AN AVID ZTV VIEWER !! (?)
Hillside

Looking for randson

Paternal family searching for their nephew / grandson. He was born in Harare at the Avenues Clinic on the 7 December 1986 and shortly afterwards given up for adoption through the Harare Social Services.

He will be 25 this year, and his biological family have been looking for him for a while. If you have any info or possible clues to his whereabouts please email bulawayoadvertiser@gmail.com

From Ben Freeth

This was a piece I wrote that was published in the Beeld last week and gives a bit of a flavor of where we are in Zimbabwe at the moment. All the best
Ben Freeth
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Media 24 article - January 2011
Last week I took a drive to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second city, from Harare.

At a police road block in our desperately dishevelled home town of Chegutu, I asked whether Chief Inspector Manika had come back from his tour as a peace keeper with the United Nations. "He is coming soon" the Constable said. I winced but said nothing. I knew how through the selective application of repressive laws he had caused so much suffering; and also ensured none of the perpetrators of the violence against us and our workers and against the MDC members in the last election had ever been brought to justice.

I went through the town, past the orange and mango vendors selling their fruit from the farms we had been run off, and stopped at David Whiteheads, the jewel of the once thriving cotton manufacturing industry. There was no electricity but through the twilight of the cavernous factory I could make out the silent looms. The place was deserted. Our voices echoed eerily in the emptiness where once 2000 workers made the place hum.

I got back in the car and drove on stopping again at Kadoma Spinners and Weavers. I spoke to one of the workers. "We can just make nappies at the moment," he said. "That's all the generators can cope with. Most of the time we are just seated because there is no ZESA."

I borrowed some fuel off a white farmer, Doug Alexander, because none of the fuel stations had any. He had been booted off first one farm and then eventually off the next and was now in town going out to try to farm odd little patches on various black owned properties. His beard had gone much whiter since I last saw him.

The fuel got me to Gweru. All along the sides of the roads, beyond the broken fences, there were patches of subsistence maize which I looked at sadly. I knew they were almost all being grown on properties that had never been paid for. I spoke to a few white farmers in Gweru. I could see they were weary. Sid Shaw had had Onverwacht until Welshman Ncube, now the new leader of the smaller MDC faction, had torn it from him. "They're no better than ZANU PF" said another farmer. One of the farmers present was Anne
Lourens, mother of a school friend of my wife's. She said sadly: "I am tired." My heart went out to her. "I know how you feel," I said, "we're all tired." I knew though, that for her it wasn't just the weathering as a
widow of the last 11 years of farm invasions that had made her tired.

Before that, during Gukuruhundi, her husband had been murdered and she had had to bring up a young family all on her own. It was a whole quarter of a century of struggling to survive.

In Bulawayo, driving around the industrial area was a bit like driving through a ghost town. There were no cars on the road and the few people I saw did not seem to have a purpose at all. They were just loitering. With the national un-employment rate at 95 percent I suppose it wasn't surprising.

The Wall Street Journal in conjunction with the Heritage Foundation has just ranked Zimbabwe 178th out of 179 in their index of economic freedoms which measures the freedoms to invest, work and produce. The formation of the Inclusive Government has done nothing fundamental to change our status: none of the notoriously oppressive legislation has been repealed; the police, army and justice system remains malevolently partisan; the human rights commission after 2 years is still dormant; the only public broadcaster still remains entirely controlled by ZANU PF. In fact there is non compliance with the GPA on almost every issue relating to giving people the freedoms that were guaranteed by SADC and the AU. Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights [ZLHR] have charged that "SADC has encouraged ...impunity and continued non compliance with its own dead lines and benchmarks."

Back in Harare though it is a different world - a completely different country. Everything seems to be humming. The supermarkets are full. The roads are busy. The MDC Minister of Finance, Tendai Biti, is predicting a 9.3 percent GDP growth rate and even the IMF said it would be 4.5 percent for 2011. It seemed impossible coming from where we had come from as refugees off the farms just beyond the city boarders.

I wondered what the optimism from Tendai Biti and the IMF was all about; but I suppose economic growth is not too hard a thing to achieve in a time when many of the world mineral prices are higher than they have ever been; and after a decade where the economy was in virtual freefall it doesn't take too much to bounce back some of the way.

Professor John Mukombe, a political analyst, has dubbed this year "the year that the dictator will, in one way or other, have no choice but to go."

Most of us don't dare believe him because we have heard it all before and had our hopes dashed so many times.

Everyone is nervous. Even the people in the bubble of Harare I talk too are worried about 2011. Mugabe is talking elections and all over the country there are reports of ZANU PF gearing for them. At the road blocks there are now often military police as well as the usual police officers. Soldiers have been moving around in the towns. Threats of violence are all over the place. The fear of what happened in the 2008 elections is still fresh.
According to ZLHR "there has been no progress on reform of laws that directly or indirectly facilitate free and fair elections."

White and foreign businessmen are jittery. The probability that the indigenisation legislation is going to be used to reward the Party stalwarts in the campaign seems strong. Already they are testing the waters. At lake Chivero, the district chairman of the war veterans for Zvimba, Aaron Mazvi, took over all the boating clubs and other tourist properties along the lake shore last week. Residents were locked in and visitors locked out. Ispoke to one American diplomatic couple who had gone to Larvon Bird gardens in their CD plated car for the weekend: "They just turned us away at the gate. We pleaded with them but they didn't allow us in." JOMIC to its credit did eventually intervene, but nobody was arrested or charged with any crimes.

But it's the diamonds that many think have sealed it. Reported as the biggest diamond field by far ever found anywhere in the world and out of bounds, even to the parliamentary committee, they are surrounded by a web of intrigue. Where ever alluvial diamonds have been found in Africa they have bought guns and caused blood shed. Speculation abounds regarding Chinese involvement. Over the last couple of months a massive, brand new Chinese military barracks has sprung up on the Mazowe road. It's never been discussed in parliament or the senate or cabinet; but someone must have authorised it. There must be substantial interests to warrant setting it up.

For us though, we are the little people and we have to either be consummate optimists, or perhaps, just people that have resigned ourselves to try to somehow survive whatever the future brings.

Dear members and friends of Reps

Today, February 17, is the 80th anniversary of The Repertory Players, a momentous occasion for the society itself and for the community it serves. On that date back in 1931 a small group of theatre enthusiasts staged their first production, a short play called Fame And The Poet by Lord Dunsany and a longer one, Magic, by G K Chesterton, the well-known author.

Tonight, those same two plays will be staged in Reps Theatre, in what we hope will be a suitable and dignified means of celebrating this wonderful birthday. Of course, the people on stage and behind the scenes will be made up of different faces, but the essence of the two different teams’ approach will be the same: to give expression to artistic enthusiasm, talent and drive and to entertain audiences in as competent a manner as possible. And they will do it because they love doing it, with no reward or remuneration in the perspective at all.

Reps as a society is proud of its record and of the amazing achievement of not only remaining in existence but doing so in a manner which brings credit to all the members and to the wider community. Nearly 700 productions have been staged by ‘the Reps’ in those 80 years and, in the society’s own theatre which last year celebrated its 50th birthday, many hundreds more hire productions have been hosted. Hundreds of amazing people have ‘trod the boards’ and made it all happen and we as a society pay tribute today to every one of them – past, present and future. We also pay tribute to staff, supporters, sponsors, donors, friends and audiences. We are where we are because of these fine people. We cannot mention them all, but if we just say names like George Barnes, Dorothy Leslie, Adrian Stanley, Allan Shaw, then you know just what a package of talent we have been privileged to be among.

Today we celebrate, we pay tribute, we reminisce, we marvel and we also look ahead, because we believe in the future and we commit ourselves to many more years of theatrical excellence and enjoyment. Innovation and entrepreneurship remain part of the overall picture.

From Reps and to Reps, happy birthday … and, my, don’t we look just fine as the busiest and bounciest octogenarian in town!

The Repertory Players’ Chairman and Executive Committee

Name and shame: Charles Davy ZANU-PF sponsor, partner, hunter

http://www.zimdiaspora.com/

Tuesday, 04 January 2011 13:26 Editor News Investigative reporter

HARARE - When most white landowners were scurrying for cover from marauding Zanu PF youths, one Charles Davy was enjoying himself at Matetsi Wildlife Enterprises. A hunter by day and a Zanu PF collaborator by night aptly describe the man behind the name, Charles Davy.

To many, he is an animal saviour. He owns many conservatives from Matetsi to Zambia. Charles Davy is a hunter, an animal philanthropist, is that all? Far from it.

Six months of undercover investigations on Charles Davy revealed that he has funded Zanu PF since 2002 and has partnered senior Zanu PF officials in illicit rhino horn trade. The officials are Webster Shamu and Emmerson Mnangagwa.

A confidential report acquired by this reporter confirmed the above.

Circumstances are that at the beginning of Zimbabwe's land reform program found his vast business empire threatened. President Mugabe and Zanu PF targeted white landowners. To this end, Davy hatched a plan to save his land. Paying homage to the militia party that was terrorizing blacks and whites alike became his master plan and key to his continued stay.

It marked the beginning of his marriage with Zanu PF. Despite spirited denials by Mr. Davy, secret documents have exposed what he really is. He has not only funded terror to save his wildlife business but he has treated his workers worse than animals. One of his former workers had this to say, "At one time our pay was less than US 15 cents per month and many of us slept on bare floors without blankets. We couldn't do anything, because he told us that President Mugabe 'knew' him. We just suffered"

In July of 2009 Mr. Davy met with President Mugabe. The meeting was arranged by Minister Mnangagwa. The report says that Webster Shamu and Mr. Davy have met several times in Chegutu, twice in July 2010. Again, Mr. Davy has managed to meet President Rupiah Banda of Zambia and DRC Joseph Kabila in the course of his 'businesses.

HHK Safaris surprised many when they solely landed all government owned concessions. But the truth was Mr. Davy had paid a fortune which sources in the state security organ peg at a whopping USD44 000 in 2001. The money was crucial in President Mugabe's presidential crusade that left many dead, raped and homeless. To Davy, the money meant concessions.

His concessions covered central Midlands, Matetsi safaris, Sabi area, the south western and south eastern of lake Kariba and some parts of Gonarezhou in the lowveld. HHK safaris became the marketing arm on behalf of several Zanu PF owned concessions. Famba Safaris owned by

Webster Shamu, Khanondo owned by Obert Mpofu, Unit 6 owned by General Chiwenga among others.

Recent security reports implicate Mr. Davy and his accomplices in illegal rhino trade. According to a secret report in our possession army intelligence officers led by one Colonel Dube based at Defense

House in Harare provides guns and helicopter. On the other hand Ministers Shamu and Mnangagwa cushion the groups from any prosecution and arrests.

Joceline Chiwenga, wife to Army General Constantine Chiwenga is fingered in the secret report as part of the rhino horn racket.

According to the secret reports Chirisa is owned by Famba Safaris in which Minister Shamu is a significant shareholder, Unit 1 and Kasibi held by Matetsi Wildlife, Chete owned by Burmakino Travel and Tours, Omay by National Safaris and Lemco owned by Mazunga Safari. The report further alleges that HHK Safaris represent Famba Safaris internationally.

In the report proceeds from Famba Safaris have been managed and distributed using Matetsi bank accounts. Zanu PF's Shamu and Mr. Davy are approved the transaction. Traced transactions point to international transfers handled and destined for offshore accounts in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Switzerland the report further alleges.

In his homage Mr. Davy funded part of Mnangagwa's 2005 election campaign and footed all costs of Shamu's campaign in 2005. Again, Mr. Davy donated undisclosed amounts in foreign currency to Shamu for his 2008 campaign.

The report further reveals that In May 2008 Charles Davy met Shamu at Wild Geese lodge near Mazowe. The meeting was for his donation to Zanu PF Mashonaland West campaign. The money was handed over to then Mash Wet Chairman John Mafa.

The secret Intelligence report points to Charles Davy as being involved in the smuggling of ivory to China and Vietnam using his Chinese links in Asia.

Two individuals have been involved, one Lee Hu Ming and a businessman now with Sino Zim. Information at hand shows the involvement of army intelligence from Harare's Defense House as well as from 1 Commando base. At Defense House Mr. Davy's contact is Col Dube.

In the operation army Helicopters disguised as army Red Cross ambulances or test flights land in Hwange National Park to pick ivory belonging to Charles Davy and partners. Secret details from the

National Parks show that Mr. Davy's has sold trophies extending him into areas under government jurisdiction. Action against him on account of orders from Hon Mnangagwa and Shamu

The report show commandos hired from 1 Commando Barracks stay at HKK Safaris when poaching in Hwange National. In many other cases they are given accommodation at Matetsi or Bubye.

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4. Charles Davy threatens to sue Zimbabwean website

By Lance Guma

06 January 2011

Controversial commercial farmer Charles Davy has threatened to sue a Zimbabwean website, for publishing a story accusing him of `aiding and abetting' the ZANU PF regime. Davy is father to Chelsy, the ex-girlfriend of British Prince Harry.

The website in question, Zimdiaspora.com, published a story entitled `Name and shame: Charles Davy ZANU-PF sponsor, partner, hunter'. The article said `when most white landowners were scurrying for cover from marauding ZANU PF youths, one Charles Davy was enjoying himself at Matetsi Wildlife Enterprises. A hunter by day and a ZANU PF collaborator by night aptly describes the man.'

A six month undercover investigation by a reporter for the website reveals that Davy `has funded ZANU PF since 2002 and has partnered senior ZANU PF officials in illicit rhino horn trade. The officials are Webster Shamu and Emmerson Mnangagwa,' the report said. The story also accused Davy of funding Mnangagwa and Shamu's parliamentary election campaigns in 2005.

Davy has responded to the article saying this is `exactly why I do not give interviews, they create stories and those stories fuel the fire of creating more absolute rubbish stories.' He claimed `there are over 400 farmers in Zimbabwe who have survived land invasions for various reasons, from geographical position, attitude of local communities, protection from bilateral investment certificates etc.'

Davy also claims that `prior to the land invasions in 2000 we had 25 white farmers in our district, 24 are still on their farms because our local district council/land committee decided that they were not going to disturb commercial farming in the district. They kicked one off his farm because he treated his labor and the local community badly.'

Contradicting Davy's defence however are secret documents in the possession of Zimdiaspora.com, which expose how he `has not only funded terror to save his wildlife business but he has treated his workers worse than animals.'

One of his former workers told the website that `at one time our pay was less than US 15 cents per month and many of us slept on bare floors without blankets. We couldn't do anything, because he told us that President Mugabe knew him. We just suffered.'

Davy claims there are white farmers who openly support the opposition who are still on their farms `because of this decision by the local community not to interfere with the commercial farmers.' He claims his conservancy `just happens to be one of those farms in a district that is very arid, unsuitable for agriculture and where commercial farming is undisturbed.' He further claims to have lost 140,000 acres of prime agricultural land and forced to sell 10,000 cattle onto a depressed market.

The Zimdiaspora.com story however alleges that in July 2009 Davy met Mugabe in a meeting organised by Mnangagwa. Davy has also managed to meet President Rupiah Banda of Zambia and DRC President Joseph Kabila in the course of his business. The article says his company HHK Safaris `surprised many when they solely landed all government owned concessions,' covering areas in the Midlands, Matetsi, Sabi, Kariba and some parts of Gonarezhou in the lowveld.

Davy is also implicated in the illegal smuggling of ivory to China and Vietnam using his Chinese links in Asia. Several senior members of the army based at the Defence House headquarters are said to be helping him.

`In the operation army helicopters disguised as army Red Cross ambulances or test flights land in Hwange National Park to pick ivory belonging to Charles Davy and partners,' the story claims.

The report also shows that commandos hired from 1 Commando Barracks stay at his HKK Safaris when poaching in the Hwange National Park.

`In many other cases they are given accommodation at Matetsi or Bubye,' the report says.

Davy has meanwhile already sent a letter to the Zimdiaspora.com website
saying: `I will be sending an objection to this article to the editor and will take advice from my legal representative about taking the strongest possible action against them. I am done with journalists making money by writing rubbish about me.'

Eddie Cross

Unlocking our potential - Ed Cross

No one disputes the fact that we have huge potential. The only question is how do we unlock that potential and exploit it for the benefit of all Zimbabweans in the long term? Perhaps we should start by outlining our potential as a country.

Our greatest asset is our people; Zimbabweans are, by nature, easy going, pleasant people who are open and welcoming. They are also hard working and innovative, that is why, despite decades of lousy government and bad policies, we have survived and resilience has to be one of our main national characteristics. We are also generally well educated and have a great deal of experience and an established knowledge of what can be done.

Then we have our resources - we have perhaps half of the worlds readily available platinum reserves, a quarter of the worlds reserves of chrome, billions of tonnes of coal and iron ore. We are a major source of nickel and asbestos and a number of other minerals. In the field of gold and diamonds we are the 6th largest gold producer in the world and are rapidly becoming a major diamond producer. We have the immediate potential to attract many billions of dollars in foreign investment in the mining industry if the conditions are right.
In agriculture we have the land and water plus ideal growing conditions for many crops and livestock products. In the past we have been the third largest producer and exporter of flue cured tobacco, one of the largest producers of white maize in the world and a major producer of fruit, sugar, tea and cotton. At one stage we were the largest exporter of beef in Africa and were totally self sufficient in pig products, poultry and milk. Although the agricultural industry has been almost destroyed in the past decade, its potential remains intact.

In tourism we have the Victoria Falls and some 9 million hectares of world-class game reserves. We are the hunting capital of the world and our variety of climates and countryside make us a great tourist destination. While tourism has been growing worldwide and southern Africa has enjoyed rapid growth in recent years - reaching a million foreign tourists a month in 2010, Zimbabwe attracts virtually none. But everyone recognises that if conditions are right and our reputation as a safe and inexpensive destination is re-established, then our potential in this field is huge.

Added to the above you have Zimbabwe at the heart of the SADC region - a region that is now growing as fast as the Asian Tigers have been growing for the past 20 years and you get a picture of just what this country could be like if we can unlock our potential. In industry, we could become a major player, supplying the region with a wide range of consumer goods and services.

We are already the regions largest source of road transport services and could become a major rail and pipeline hub. Our schools and universities could become an attraction for students and graduates from all over the world and especially the central African States. Our engineers and accountants and medical services could also become centers of excellence that would serve the entire sub region. After South Africa we have the most advanced banking system in the region and this could provide a base for the country becoming a regional financial hub, especially now that we have virtually no restrictions on the movement of funds.

So why are we stuck in this pothole and unable to get out and start to realize this potential? It starts with politics. So long as we have this dysfunctional government and no consensus on the way forward, the uncertainty that prevails at present will remain. The uncertainty over who will be in charge and hold power in the State is a very real issue.

The business community is afraid of a return of the days when we had hyperinflation, price control and no rule of law to speak of. They are afraid that radicals such as Kasukawere will be able to dictate policy and events and that his threats against all foreign and white owned business will materialize.

So long as government is locked in a struggle for ascendancy and nothing else, we simply cannot make progress and that is why the Zuma road map to the next election is so critical. This must be close to finality and we should get sight of it soon if JZ is going to be able to report progress to the AU summit at the end of the month.

Once this issue is dealt with, then we must face all the other constraints. But that is not as difficult as it might seem at first. We are very resilient and there is a huge reservoir of goodwill and human capital just waiting for the right conditions. Like the dramatic changes in monetary policy that were adopted in 2009, key policy shifts will unlock this potential very rapidly. Adopting regional currencies and the US dollar as the means of exchange and lifting price and exchange controls swiftly filled supermarkets and restored value to work and incomes. Other policy shifts would have a similar, if less dramatic response. What are they?

Firstly we have to restore the rule of law and the independence and professionalism of our Court system. People have to know that their rights and property will be protected and the laws of the country will be applied and enforced. Would that be difficult - hardly, a dozen new appointments to key positions would change the situation overnight.

Then we need to assure investors of all kinds that their rights to control and manage their assets in Zimbabwe will be protected in perpetuity. This means treating all who have permanent residence in Zimbabwe equally and those who invest from outside the country with every protection that they might expect in any other sane country. This might require revoking some laws and regulations but not much more, it's really a matter of commitment by the State and then confidence that we mean business.

We must resist the temptation to play with the macro economic fundamentals and stay the course of fiscal and monetary reform, discipline and stability. This should not be difficult given the nasty experiences of the recent past. We must deal with our debt overhang and bite the bullet on our parastatals and corruption in high places.

We must repair our infrastructure and energy systems as well as our educational and medical system. We must welcome home anyone who is tired of struggling in foreign countries and wants to resume their lives in Zimbabwe. We must make that possible with job growth and opportunities.

We must restore and respect the rights of all who are citizens by birth or adoption.

Is that too much to ask? It seems so simple really but that is all it would take and we could then fly. Backed by a democratic system that was open and accountable and saw regular changes in leadership, Zimbabweans could then really plan for the future and instead of using their innate abilities to simply survive; they could start to build again.

Eddie Cross
Bulawayo 17th January 2011

Facts on Kariba by Tim Elliott

M.A.S.L. = Meters above sea level


The lake year is from October to September but the graphs are from January to December.

Absolute minimum level for generation = 475.45 msal

Current maximum retention level = 488.5 msal

Lowest level drawn down was in 1995 mid December - 475.9 masl

1980 - 3 gates were open on 16 February and were progressivly closed by 30 June.

1985 - earthquake - 5.6 on the Richeter Scale - 18 July

It was 19 years before flood gates were opened due to flooding in 2000. 3 gates were opened on
February 26. 2 gates were left half open 14 March. 1 gate left half open 13 May.
Final gate closed 9 June.

Greatest rise in lake level since 1980 was in February 1997 after 9 hours of rain.
The lake rose over 51 cm over the next two days.

Average depth of lake = 20 - 29 meters Deepest part = 120 meters Shoreline = 2 160 km.
Surface area when full = 5 580 sq.km. (the size of Wales). Enough water to supply Greater
London for around 300 years. Weight of water = 177,000,000,000 tons.
Mean annual evaporation = 1.5 meters (when full). This will expose 236 sq.km. of land.
Length = 190 km. Widest point = 33 km.
Cost = between £ 78 & 122 m.

Dam Wall = Built between 1955 + 1959; double curvature concrete arch. 128 meters high.
Crest length = 617 meters and width = 13 meters top:24 meters bottom.
Volume of concrete = 1 032 000 cu.m.
6 flood gates each 9 x 8.8 meters. At Max. Retn. Level, one gate will spill 1 574 cu.m/s.
Stilling pool = 78 m deep. Volume = 335 000 cu.m.
86 people killed on site.
Built by Impresit (Italy) and designed by Andre Coyne.
Transmission Towers weigh 7.5 tons each and are an average of 39 meters tall.
2 gates opened 50% 9/3/10 although all gates were opened, one at a time for testing.
3rd gate opened 50% 19/3/10

All 3 gates close on the 12th July 2010 at around 16:55hrs.
2010 was the year that Kariba North had the fire inside their power station. Cause still being investigated

Due to the unusually high lake level for Jan 2011 and because of the higher than expected rains in the
catchment, ZRA decided to open two gates to make "room" for the coming flood in a few months time.
22/1/11:- No.3 gate opened fully at 12:05hrs and No.5 gate opened fully at 12:30hrs.
between 29 and 31 Jan, the lake was still rising by at least 4cm per day.
Gate No.1 opened at 12:00hrs on 2/2/2011

If you have any questions for him, please e-mail him directly - timsilverback@gmail.com

Reps

As everyone knows next week is the 80th anniversary of the Repertory Players, which was inaugurated on 17th February 1931 . Yes, WOW, 80 years old!


In order to celebrate this momentous milestone the following activities are to take place, which hopefully will allow for something to everyone's taste.

On Thursday 17th February, a black tie gala evening presenting the two plays, Fame and the Poet and Magic, which were the first public offering by the repertory players in 1931 . Please contact the office if you would like tickets for this gala evening , or book at the spotlight for any of the other public performances.

We will be having a social at our "home" on Friday 18th February to which all members and their guests are invited to attend to celebrate this amazing birthday! Food and entertainment galore and of course no entrance charge to our members and their guests, so come on down and join the fun!!

And to recover from Friday nights festivities, join us at Vanilla Moon (8 Seagrave Road, (off Second Street Extension) Avondale ) for a champagne breakfast at 9:00am . Cost is $15 per head, which includes a couple of complimentary glasses to get you going. Book with Erin in the office as places are limited. Dress period or appropriately for a thespian hangover cure

Nothing like an 80th birthday to let your hair down and have some fun , so do your society proud and enjoy our celebrations to the full!!

Buster Morrison

The memorial service for Buster Morrison who passed away peacefully 12 February 2011 will be held at Greencroft Presbyterian Church, Stoney Road on Wednesday 16 February at 10:30. Many thanks - Hazel, Lorraine and Debs  From: Lorraine & Malcolm [mailto:motley@zol.co.zw]

Joey Langlois

Our sincere sympathy today and always to Joe, June, Katie, Julie, Michael, Lulu and families.

+++++++++++

CONDOLENCES
Grant Elizabeth passed away suddenly on Wednesday 9 February 2011.
Sadly missed by Trevor, Adele, Stacey and Jemma in New Zealand.
A service will be held on:
Date: Wednesday 16 February 2011
Venue: Farleys Funeral Parlour
Time 16:00 Hours

+++++++

JESS NESBITT: Our deepest sympathies go to the Nesbitt family for their great loss of Jess. What a lesser place the world is without such a saint! She was an inspiration to EVERYONE. To Digby, Rory, Tracy, Clinton and their spouses and children,: we extend our hands and hearts in this time of need and will pray for you. All our Love: The Kleynhans Family. (Johnny, Desiree, Kirsty and Chanty)

+++++++++++

Memorial Service - Beryl Castle-Ward
A Memorial Service for the late Beryl Castle-Ward will be held at the Church of the Ascension, Leander Ave, Hillside, Bulawayo on Friday 18th February at 3pm. The service will be taken by Father Noel Scott.

Tea will be served in the garden after the service.

+++++++

CONDOLENCE

BRINE. -- Bruce. Our deepest condolences to the family of Bruce. I first met him in Northern Rhodesia when we had both been seconded to the Northern News for a period. How well I remember that white-haired viola player at the BPO and NSO concerts. May his family experience to peace of God at this sad time. -- Peter Botwright (Perth, Scotland).

CONDOLENCE

DAWSON. -- Yvonne. Yet another of our contemporaries goes to be with the Lord. We have known Yvonne for more than 50 years -- so many, many memories of the "good old days". Our love and deepest condolences to Brendan, Leanne and families. Peter and Denise Botwright, Perth, Scotland.

+++++++

In Loving Memory of JOEY LANGLOIS
16th February 2010
One year today, the world lost a man.
This man was awesome, with an awesome plan.
It seems like just yesterday we last spoke, laughed and cried,
We can't believe that it's been a year since our beautiful Joey died.
Son, Brother, Uncle, Friend
That circle was round and has no end.
Today we honor his memory, from the depths of our hearts.
And we love him always: future, present & past.
Joe & June, Julie & Katie. Mike & Lulu. Richard, Richie & Lisa.
(Thank-you to all our friends & family who mourn with us)

++++++++

MOLLY SCHIERHOUT.

A very dear friend who will be sadly missed. Our deepest sympathy to Bob and family, our thoughts are with you, especially on Tuesday. We regret being so far away at this sad time. Will always remember the happy
times.! Loving thoughts, Peg and Family
Peg Brown. :pegpegbrown@googlemail.com Phone UK 1442 870908

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DEATH NOTICE - MOLLY SCHIERHOUT

The family of the late Molly Schierhout (nee Holden) wish to notify their friends of her sad and sudden passing on 3rd February 2011.
Molly will be sadly missed by her loving husband Bob and beloved children and their families - Janet & Bert, Brett & Kari, Alex & Colin, Des & Paula, Damian, Andrew, Mariann & Roy, Laurie & Andrew & Tyler, Jessi, Linda & Karl, Rob & Derek, Sue & Dave, Bridget & Michael, Pete & Lisa, Ryan & Emma.
Our Father has called her to His mighty Kingdom and may she rest in peace.
MEMORIAL SERVICE
The Memorial Service for the late Molly Schierhout will be held on Tuesday 8th February 2011, at 2.30pm at All Souls Church, Westcott Road, Mt Pleasant, Harare.
The family may be contacted on 00-263-4-302463
e-mail: wengi@africaonline.co.zw
Janet: 263-4-335480

Death and condolence messages from Bulawayo

Memorial Service - Beryl Castle-Ward


A Memorial Service for the late Beryl Castle-Ward will be held at the Church of the Ascension, Leander Ave, Hillside, Bulawayo on Friday 18th February at 3pm. The service will be taken by Father Noel Scott.

Tea will be served in the garden after the service.

++++++++
DAWSON

Beloved Mom to Leanne and Ziggy, Brendan and Ori and Granny to Sinaed, Liam, Ryan and Jack passed away peacefully on 27th Jan in her home in Hilton Pietermaritzburg SA. She will be sadly missed by them all and all those who knew her.

A memorial Service will be held on Friday 11th Feb 2011 at the Old Miltonians Hall at 3pm. Tea will be served after the service and family and friends are all welcome.

++++++++++
Chief Justice Hector Macdonald passed away last Sunday 30th January,
in Rondebosch, Cape Town, at the grand old age of 95.
He had an amazing career, a man of great legal intellect who served
Rhodesia with great courage and integrity through very difficult
times. He leaves his daughter, Jean, in Australia, Ian in Kwa Zulu
Natal and Bruce in Cape Town, and their families.

+++++++++
"In loving remembrance of Cyrus Kordian and Vida Sohaili Kordian, laid
to rest in Harare within nine days of one another. A searing double
blow to the Sohaili, Kordian and Kee-Tui families who will remember
them with love, affection and a deep sense of loss. No more pain and
suffering."
Death is nothing at all - I have only slipped away into the next room.
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by my old
familiar names, speak to me in the easy way which you always used.
Laugh as we always laughed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray
for me. Let my name be the household word that it always was. Let it
be spoken without effort. Life means all it ever meant. It is the same
as it ever was: there is absolutely unbroken continuity. Why should I
be out of your mind because I am out of sight. I am but waiting fo
you, for an interval, somewhere very near just around the corner. All
is well. Nothing is past; nothing is lost. One brief moment and all
will be as it was before - only better, infinitely happier and forever
- we will all be one together....
Carmelite Monastery
Tallow. County Waterford, Ireland
++++++++

WATTS - Dennis Gillbert. My beloved Den now gone to rest after a long painful battle with illness borne with dignity and bravery. My husband, best friend and confidante. I will miss him beyond measure. No more pain and suffering, my love - now at peace. All my love, Kay.

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WATTS - Dennis Gilbert. Dearly loved father of Allan & Brian, father-in-law of Martine, Grandpa of David, Christine, Michael, Jonathan & Daniel. Loving Step-father of Shaun & Kate and special Papa Den to Teddy & Breanna. He was much loved and will be sadly missed.

+++++++++++++
DEATH NOTICE

Brine Bruce. Bruce passed away peacefully in Walderslade, Kent, UK
in the early hours of Sunday 30th January 2011 after a two years battle
against cancer. Bruce was born in Ronford, Essex 11th July 1934 and
came to Africa in about 1947/8. Growing up in Bulawayo, he went to
Gifford and Milton High Schools and was a printer by trade.
He played the violin from an early age and was a member of the
Bulawayo Municipal Orchestra. He moved to Salisbury (Harare) in the
1960's and was first violinist for the Harare Municipal Orchestra.
He was a great viola player and concentrated on that instrument and
stopped playing the violin for concerts held in Harare. Whilst living in
Harare, he often travelled back to Bulawayo to assist the late Derek
Hudson with concerts - he did this for many years.
Bruce was an avid book reader and collector of books, many of which he
had played an integral part in producing. He studied for and obtained his
Degree in History with First Class Honours.
A great lover of the game of golf, Bruce was a member of Royal Harare
Golf Club and belonged to Seniors Golf Society.
He was married to Grace in 1963 and they had two children, David
Christopher and Natalie (now Dr Natalie Brine), who left to settle in England
several years ago. In about 2002, Bruce and Grace left to join their family
there.
The funeral service (Requiem Mass) will be held in Walderslade on
Wednesday 9th February at 10am.
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FROM INTERFIN BANK

Dear Valued Clients We write to advise that one of the commercial banks has detected an original USD5 note which has been "faked" into a USD50 note.

The note is genuine And therefore will pass through the UV light or fake note detector pen. However the difference is that the original USD 50 has the face of "GRANT"

whereas the USD5 note has the face of "LINCOLN". At the back of the USD50 note there is a picture of the "US CAPITOL" Whereas the USD5 note has the picture of "LINCOLN MEMORIAL" CHANCES ARE THAT A NUMBER OF SUCH FAKE NOTES ARE ALREADY IN CIRCULATION. May you kindly exercise extreme caution when accepting the $50.00 notes

DEATH NOTICE - MOLLY SCHIERHOUT

The family of the late Molly Schierhout (nee Holden) wish to notify their friends of her sad and sudden passing on 3rd February 2011.

Molly will be sadly missed by her loving husband Bob and beloved children and their families - Janet & Bert, Brett & Kari, Alex & Colin, Des & Paula, Damian, Andrew, Mariann & Roy, Laurie & Andrew & Tyler, Jessi, Linda & Karl, Rob & Derek, Sue & Dave, Bridget & Michael, Pete & Lisa, Ryan & Emma.

Our Father has called her to His mighty Kingdom and may she rest in peace.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

The Memorial Service for the late Molly Schierhout will be held on Tuesday 8th February 2011, at 2.30pm at All Souls Church, Westcott Road, Mt Pleasant, Harare.

The family may be contacted on 00-263-4-302463

e-mail: wengi@africaonline.co.zw

Janet: 263-4-335480

Condolence Notices

Stephen Michael Morgan. Stephen was an active member of WEZ and took part in many of our Hwange Game Counts. He will be sadly missed. The committee and members of WEZ Matabeleland Branch extent their heartfelt condolences to his daughter Janine and the family."


++++++++++++

PETER CLAYTON GOOSEN
OUR BELOVED DAD AND OUPA
HOW BLESSED WE WERE TO HAVE
HAD YOU AS OUR DAD. YOU FOUGHT
THE FIGHT AND FINISHED STRONG.
NOW AT PEACE WITH OUR LORD
AND PRECIOUS MOM. WE MISS YOU
SO. ALL OUR LOVE
DAVID, KIM, JORDYN AND BENJAMIN
PETER CLAYTON GOOSEN

OUR DEAREST DAD AND OUPA
YOU WERE OUR HERO AND ROLE
MODEL. WE FIND THE DEEPEST
COMFORT KNOWING THAT AS A
FAMILY WE WILL BE TOGETHER AGAIN
AND GET TO SPEND ETERNITY TOGETHER.
HEDLEY TRACEY, MEGAN AND BRENT
+++++++++++
PETER CLAYTON GOOSEN
OUR DARLING DAD AND OUPA
SAFE IN THE ARMS OF OUR FATHER
AND TOGETHER WITH YOUR BELOVED
NAN/ WE LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH
THANK YOU FOR BEING THE BEST DAD
AND FOR ALL YOUR LOVE, GUIDANCE AND
SUPPORT. WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU -
YOU FOUGHT SO BRAVELY AND WERE SO
FAITHFUL. 2 TIM 4:7-8. ALL OUR LOVE
DAVID, PETE AND JESSIE