Family Notices

) CONGRATULATIONS

Kev and Marilyn Shraga have been blessed with the arrival of their first grandchild, Charlotte Joy, a daughter to Cindy and David Owens

in Bunbury, Western Australia on 25 January 2012.

Shragas shragas@msn.com

GOLDEN WEDDINGS


BOTWRIGHT-JUBBER (PLUMB): On Friday, February 3, 2012 Peter and Denise will have been married for 50 years! Can t believe where the time has gone. We remember, on that day, our family, our friends - old and new and pray God s blessings upon you. For me, my dearest wife, Denise, how you ve put up with me for half-a-century, I ll never know. I love you very much and I pray the Lord will continue to bless our marriage and keep you in His care


 CONDOLENCES
Dave Chalmers, beloved husband of Nerine, father of Shirley and Bruce, Nigel and Ivana and Bumpa to James and Kate, passed away in Songdo, South Korea on the 28th January after a long illness. Sadly missed by everyone but at peace. Ian & Denise Glover

Mabel Elizabeth Anderson ( nee Fisher )

Dearest most beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother - passed away 19 January 2012 at the age of 85.

Your artistic flair, glamour and creativity will never be forgotten and you will live on in our hearts forever.

Always and forever - Laurel,Aruschka,Phillip and great-grandaughter Zarah.

e-mail laureljane@iafrica.com


Anderson - Mabel Elizabeth (nee Fisher)

Beloved mother of Callum, Grandmother of Rebecca Victoria and Duncan, Great Grandmother of Talia and Jade

Passed away suddenly after a short illness in her Johannesburg home on 19 January 2012 surrounded by her whole

family. She lived life large and was a Remarkable woman in Bulawayo and her legacy lives on in her art work,

her involvement in the early days of Television and her love of fashion. She will be greatly missed for the

Guidance and comfort she shared with her family.

Soar free as you were 'Strictly for the Birds' Mom, and have gone to join your beloved Malcolm. Rest in Peace.

Your heartbroken Son and family.

cmvd@iafrica.com

ANDERSON - Mabel

An amazing woman who made such an impact on our lives. Gone so suddenly.

Deepest sympathy from us all to the whole family

Mary, Elizabeth, Don, Wendy Christopher Caitlin (Naisby) Penny and Susan (Small)

Maureen and Laurie Bond and all the Sangers

SHEPPARD - DEIDRE.

Our dear friend, gone to rest. Her kindness to others, and cheerfulness in all circumstances, will always be remembered by the Williams and de Caila families. Our condolences to her three wonderful daughters who have supported her so well during her illness, and to the whole family - BRIDGET.


Deidre Sheppard. Our dearest friend who passed away in the early hours of Monday 23rd January. You were such a beautiful person who gave so much to others. A true friend. We will remember all the good and happy times we shared together. We loved you so much and we are going to miss you always being there for us. Debs, Charmaine and Michelle our prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time. Love Brenda, Kevin, Brett, Keith and Dennis Thomas.


RAJPUT; Naresh and Usha
To the families of Naresh and Usha, we extend our heartfelt sympathy on
the untimely and tragic loss of your loved ones.
We have lost the love and care of two wonderful, caring and compassionate
people and they will be sorely missed.
Edith Duly Nursing Home Residents and Management

ROB ELSON (12 July 1928 - 28 January 2012)


Husband of the late June, much loved Dad to Cally and Dick Barton, Maryann and Louis Malzer, Suzie Heyns and Dickon and Carolyn Elson and Grandpa to Adam, Sarah Jane, Tori and Stuart, Kurt, Graham and Tracey, Kerry and George and Nicolle, Dylan and Rachel. Great Grandpa to Rebecca, Michaela and Megan.
Died peacefully in the UK on Saturday 28th January 2012.

Suzie Heyns : - suzieheyns@gmail.com

Mobile: +263 772 603695

Land Line (evenings) +263 4 882028



-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WRIGHT - Trevor Sidney.

Passed away peacefully at home on Friday 27th January. Beloved Husband to Denise for 50 years.

Wonderful Father, Father-in-law & Grandfather to Tracey, Douglas, Kathleen, Kelly & Erin in South Africa
Hailey, Gregory & Sebastian in Perth Australia. Will be sorely missed by all.

Funeral at Nazareth House, Enterprise Road on Wednesday 1st February 11am.

Denise Wright - 04-746852

WRIGHT – Trevor Sidney

WRIGHT – Trevor Sidney:  Passed away peacefully at home on Friday 27^th January.  Beloved Husband to Denise for 50^th year.  Wonderful Father, Father-in-law & Grandfather to Tracey, Douglas, Kathleen, Kelly & Erin in South Africa. Hailey, Gregory & Sebastian in Perth Australia.  Will be sorely missed by all.  Funeral at Nazareth House, Enterprise Road on Wednesday 1^st February 11am. Denise Wright  -  04-746852. cherith@mweb.co.zw

FEW: Alfred Blake

FEW: Alfred Blake.  Beloved husband of Jane, Dad to Athol and Sue, Raymond and Valerie Klein, and Pops to Brandon, Shannah, Damien, Graeme, Callum, Bryony, Kelsey and Rebecca.  Blake’s final flight was taken on 13^th January 2012 in Auckland, New Zealand.  Fly high until we meet again. kleinv@clear.net.nz

Cynthia Alexander

Memorial Service for Cynthia Alexander who passed away on 31st  January 2012  will be held at the Bible Baptist Church, 6 Midvale Road, Chisipite on Friday 3 February 2012 at 2.30pm.

Gate Motor Safety

Gate Motor Safety: To All Out There Please Be Very Aware That Even Though You Have A Gate Motor Running Your Gate, Please Put A Lock On Your Gate At Night. We Are In The Electric Gate Business And I Cannot Warn You Enough, We Have Had Some Ladies Who Live On Their Own And We Have Been Called Out On Numerous Occasions Where Their Gate Has Stopped Working But In Actual Fact What The Thieves Do Is They Lift Your Gate Off The Rail And Proceed Inside Without You Even Knowing, Plenty Times These Ladies Have Been Saved By Having A Lock On Their Gate At Night. When We Install Our Motors And Gates We Make Sure That Our Anti-Theft Cages On The Motors Are Welded Down Permanently Therefore Making It Impossible For Gate Motors To Be Stolen. Thieves Are Targeting Woman Living On Their Own So Be Aware. Please Contact Me On 0772253108 Or 0733405813 Glen Eley If You Need Your Gate Motors To Be Secured. You Could Email Me On Fabrigate@Yoafrica.Com 

Be aware

Be aware that a con team is moving around suburban neighbourhoods, taking advantage of residents sympathetic to the plight of a stranded pick-up driver purportedly ferrying a dead body from a rural area south of Harare to a northern town, such as Bindura. The driver - variously, 'Shepherd' or ' Tobias', claims to be trying to locate his boss, 'Ben Khumalo' (who he claims lives in your neighbourhood) to get money to buy fuel so he can continue the journey, but has found his boss is in Mutare playing golf (at Leopard Rock, in one version). The driver asks if you could ring his boss on your cellphone to relay his plight, he having no air-time and/or a non-working phone. Touched by the story of the dead body, you ring Khumalo on 0734 505 439/ 0772 435 847 and the end result is a request for a 'loan' for fuel - $50 or so - and a promise to repay the money the next morning. Months later, we are still waiting - and the dead body is apparently also still en route many months later, as Shepherd does the rounds of the neighbourhoods, soliciting help. ..........

Please be aware of a gang operating in Mount Pleasant!

Yesterday four men in a silver Jap import car with a woman driver approached an unlocked gate in Moorgate road with a delivery of a bottle of whisky. Three of them entered the property while the fourth kept the gardener distracted at the gate. The three approached the house from different directions and the maid working in the kitchen confronted the one wanting a signature from the "Boss" for the bottle. Fortunately she refused them entry and called mother and daughter who were also in the house.

Perhaps with the noise of a TV and the presence of at least three people these visitors decided to abort their plan. Very lucky for the homeowners, and a warning for people to keep their gates securely locked, the gardener was at fault in this case.

Car safety regulations

May be an idea to send this out again... and not only for foreigners but for us locals who haven't got the equipment yet!


Police checks were full out today regarding the safety equipment.
They also asked for a certificate.
Thanks
C

It’s advisable for visitors with foreign registered vehicles to prepare for checkpoints where they might be asked to show they’re carrying Safety Equipment.

If you know of anyone driving into the country, they’ll thank you for forwarding these details to them:

Fire extinguisher

Mandatory. 1kg (light vehicles). To be SAZ approved. Visitors should carry SABS approved units.

Warning triangle

2 triangles mandatory. Not required to be SAZ approved.

Fluorescent safety jacket

Recommended for own safety but not mandatory (except for travellers to Mozambique).

It’s also advisable to fit a pair of reflectors: white up front, red at the back. Size guide: Circular - 60mm circumference, square - minimum 50x50mm.

Requests for more information welcome, email bigsky@zol.co.zw

Big Sky Supplies – We prepare you for your journey (An AAZ Consul Office)

9 Pomona Shopping Centre (Next to Nando’s)

Phone: (04) 870827/851002

Email: bigsky@zol.co.zw

Bulawayo Condolences

The sudden and tragic passing of our dearest friend and colleague of 40 years, Naresh Rajput and his wife Usha has left a deep void in our hearts Naresh was a warm and dedicated man of great integrity and humility and Usha, a kind hearted and selfless wife and mother We will be left with fond memories of them both and they will be sorely missed by all Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to Prajesh, Manisha and the Rajput family Our thoughts and prayers are with you


Raphael and Judy Chitrin and management and staff of Tradepower and Chitrins Distribution

++++++++

Deirdre Sheppard, most beloved mother of Deb, Charm, and Shell, and adoring

Meemo to Tor, Carly, Robyn, Paige, Stacey and Kyle, passed away after a long

brave battle on 23 1 12 Forever in our hearts

Notice of the memorial service to celebrate her life will be forthcoming +++++

Please convey my condolences to the Pakenham family Ceta Burt was one of my first ballet teachers I remember her with great fondness

Christine Bridgman (nee Alanthwaite)
Roy Bridgman bridgmanroy@gmail com

++++++++
I have just read about Ceta - Ceta and her parents Mr and Mrs Burt (to me no first names in those days) were among the first people to welcome us to Bulawayo when we arrived care worn and tired from South Africa and India before that, give or take a few months so I have known Ceta since 1948 She was a tiny skilled dedicated ballerina and how I longed to be just like her, but for a start I certainly wasn't petite even tho not tall, so laughed that off!
I do send sympathy to her children for the loss of their mother Ceta and I remained friends on and off over the years, particularly when we all lived in Weir Avenue another memory to pack away
With love

Jean Tucky N Z
++++++

JACKIE HILL
We partied when we could You are at rest now Deepest sympathies to Bryan, Craig, Clive and family You were such a strong, wonderful lady and will always be remembered
Michael Spits

++++++
Shelagh Atkinson (nee Whittaker) 26/01/57 to 22/01/12
Loving wife on Mike, and mother of Ryan and Kerry, died on 22nd January, 2010 May she be at peace and pain free ++++++++++++++++++++++++

Shelagh Atkinson (nee Whittaker) 26/01/57 to 22/01/12

My dearest sister Shelagh May you be pain free and rest peacefully I will miss your laughter and wonderful nature What a privilege to have you in our lives Love Ruth, Swany, Kristyn, Shaylene and Robyn

Michael Sandys - Mr Hendrik Meyer

Memorial Service For Michael Sandys: In loving memory of Michael Sandys-Thomas, a memorial service will be held on Friday 27th January and 10am, at Baptist Bible Church, Chisipite, Harare. curls@zol.co.zw




Service and Wake For Mr Hendrik Meyer: It is with regret that I have to inform Nomads of the death of a long standing member, Mr. Hendrik Meyer. He died on Tuesday the 17th of January 2012 at 15:45 hours. He was 78 years old. There will be a short Service to be held at the Red Lion, HSC on Thursday the 26th of January 2012. 14:00 for 14:30. The Wake will be held shortly after the service at the same venue.

Be Warned

We would just like to inform readers/travel agents etc. of an incident that happened at our offices yesterday.

We received a phone call from a potential client who asked if he could come and see us to talk to us regarding a booking for 20 executive businessmen from Oracle Corporation based in the USA. He told us his boss in Zambia has asked him to book Varden Safaris as he had been to Mavuradonha before and the executives wanted to hold a workshop before the launch of a new company.

When he arrived (in a taxi) he was well spoken and knew all about the travel industry, down to the group would be going from Varden to Gweru by private charter (Solenta) and then onto the Falls and back to Harare and that the budget was unlimited.

He was very plausible and not for an instant did we suspect he was a con artist. He said his name was Howard. While he was waiting for us to complete the quote, he started talking about his son who was 12 and was presently having a blood transfusion. He was speaking to his wife on the phone and phoned his "business partner" in Zambia whilst in our office. He then received a call from his wife telling him they would not give his son more blood unless they received $83.00. He then said he would go back to his office, collect the cash and go to the hospital. Then he asked if by any chance we had the $83 and he would leave his laptop here as guarantee that he would come back. It was all so plausible that we gave him the $83.00 and instead of leaving his laptop, could he leave his cell phone instead. He told us his server was down and he needed his laptop when he got to his office to sort it out. He told us to try and email him but it would probably bounce back however, his Zambian boss would be able to receive it.

Needless to say both emails bounced back, the cell phone had the SIM card removed and it was old and battered, the company numbers he gave us just rang and there is no Oracle Corporation in Zimbabwe. The taxi driver phoned us later in the day to ask us if "Howard" had come back to our office. He used the taxi to take him all over Harare for the day and then told the driver to wait at the bank while he organised some cash to pay him and then gave the taxi driver the slip - never to be seen again - owing the taxi $70.00!

Easy in hindsight to see all the flaws but a very accomplished and intelligent Con Man who absolutely knows about the tourism industry.

Varden Safaris

Can anyone help?

I am Beatrice Sibongile Mabanga born in 1975 as the first Daughter of the Late Zakhele Cyprian Mabanga and Fuzile Aminah Mabanga ,the couple was married in 1974 in Bethal. iam looking for the origin of Mabanga family in South Africa, iam doing this because we are now two sisters left without a brother to do this for our family,our late brother left  a baby boy so our kids have to know where we are coming from and so that we can know who we are? Beatrice S Mabanga [mabangabs@mpg.gov.za]

Looking for MR WILLIAM CLAYDEN

Looking for MR WILLIAM CLAYDEN last known address to be "Zimbabwe".  Please contact Alannah Kirkman 0774894386 or al.kirkman00@gmail.com if anyone should have any information on Mr Clayden's current whereabouts.  This is in relation to benefits relating to possible UK/SA interests. 

Glennys Allen (nee Evans)

Death Notice - It is with much sadness that the death is announced of Glennys Allen (nee Evans) who died at her home in Brighton on New Years day of heart failure and pneumonia in her 67th year.  Glennys worked as an Examiner at the Vehicle Inspection Depot Bulawayo in the mid 70`s. I am trying to contact Marleen Bees and Paddy Wheelan as they were our close friends at the time and if anyone has any knowledge of their whereabouts would they please contact me. Glennys`s funeral will be held at Amersham Crematorium in the U.K. at 1.45 GMT on Tuesday 17th January, 2012 . MHDSRIP.  Vikki Russell-Fox.  044 5336937. e-mail russelfox@telkomsa.net

Mike Fraser

There will be a memorial service for the late Mike Fraser on Friday 20th January at 3 p.m. in the P.E. Chapel – refreshments afterwards at home in Marlborough.


All friends invited to attend to celebrate Mike’s life.

Bill Houston (Alexander)

Death Notice - With sadness we announce the death of Bill Houston (Alexander) at home, on Sunday 15th January, 2012.  A service will be held at the home of Allan and Monica Banks at 3 p.m. on Thursday, 19th January, 2012.  Phone 0712203515 for details.

Demonstartions in harare

Information to hand indicates that there are demonstrations / protests planned in the city centre today, in connection with the civil service strike. No specific venues have been given, but historically such protests usually centre around NSSA House (corner 2nd st / Julius Nyerere), Ministry of Finance (4th st / Samora Machel) and Harare Gardens / Africa Unity square.


Such demonstrations often turn violent, involving tear-gas and baton charges by the police. You are therefore advised to avoid going anywhere near the city centre today.

We’ll advise you of any further developments – please let us know as well if you have any information regarding this.

Bulawayo condolences

JACKIE HILL

Jackie Hill - mother of Craig and Bryan, daughter of Mrs Shea and sister to Jill and Jock

It was with deep sadness that we learned that Jackie had passed away on Saturday 14 January 2012 in the UK May the peace of God be with all of the family

Headmaster, Staff and Board of Governors of Whitestone School
++++++++++

Ceta Pakenham, mother of Sheri and Chris and granny to Kirsty, Ashleigh and James, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of the 14th of January

Her funeral will be held at the Church of Ascension, Leander Ave, Hillside at 10am on Wednesday the 18th of January
+++++++++

It is with much sadness that the death is announced of Glennys Allen (nee Evans) who died at her home in Brighton on New Years day of heart failure and pneumonia in her 67th year Glennys worked as an Examiner at the Vehicle Inspection Depot Bulawayo in the mid 70's I am trying to contact Marleen Bees and Paddy Wheelan as they were our close friends at the time and if anyone has any knowledge of their whereabouts would they please contact me Glennys's funeral will be held at Amersham Crematorium in the U K at 1 45 GMT on Tuesday 17th January, 2012 MHDSRIP
Vikki Russell-Fox

044 5336937

e-mail russelfox@telkomsa net

++++++++++

DEATH NOTICES

VON RIESEN - YVONNE LILLIAN (NEE JOSELAND) - LOVED WIFE OF AXEL, MOTHER OF DORILLE SHADBOLT AND ANNETTE VON RIESEN, GRAN OF ALEXANDER VON RIESEN DALAIS, MOTHER IN LAW OF JOHN SHADBOLT, SISTER IN LAW OF BASIL FRANKLIN AND NORMAN MUMFORD, AUNT OF SHARON AND BARRY DAKIN, SHAUN MUMFORD, AUDRA AND SEAN FARREN, GREAT AUNT OF PAULA DAKIN, MICHAEL DAKIN AND BAILEY FARREN, SISTER OF THE LATE ANN FRANKLIN AND DENISE MUMFORD, PASSED AWAY ON THURSDAY 12TH JANUARY 2012 IN SOUTH AFRICA AFTER A LONG BATTLE WITH PARKINSONS A MEMORIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD LATER ON THIS YEAR IN BULAWAYO EMAILS TO a-v-r@iafrica com PEACE AT LAST WITH HER LORD AND FAMILY

+++++++
Sandra Elaine Nell

In loving memory of Sandra Elaine Nell who passed away in Bulawayo on 24 Jan 2008 Lovingly remembered by Christine, Kathy & Toby

If in one fleeting moment

We could see you smile

We would give up everything we have

So we could hold your hand for a while

We all love you so much

We miss you so badly

Sandra Elaine Nell

In loving memory of Sandra Elaine Nell who passed away in Bulawayo on 24 Jan 2008 Lovingly remembered by Christine, Kathy & Toby



If in one fleeting moment

We could see you smile

We would give up everything we have

So we could hold your hand for a while

We all love you so much

We miss you so badly

And we won't ever forget

The happy times that we shared



Remembering you is easy

We do it every day

Missing you is the hardest part

As it never goes away

To hear your voice

To see your smile

To sit with you and talk for a while would be our greatest wish

Today, tomorrow, our whole life through

We shall always love and remember you

In Loving memory of Sandra Elaine Nell, mother to Carl & Kim, granny to Kayla and Levi

In the quiet of the evening

I sit and think of you,

I open up my memory book,

Of the things we used to do,

And as I turn the pages,

My eyes are filled with tears,

For, although I have my memories,

I can t hold back the years

Our hearts are filled with memories

Which we gather through the years

All the happy times we shared,

Are treasured souvenirs

Christine Rossouw
cprossouw@gmail com

cprossouw@vodamail co za

++++++
Zietsman-Sarie,Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the families on the passing of your precious Moeder She was my dearest friend, kind,caring,sensitive loyal,humorous and sincere I shall miss her and our prime time together Rest in peace dear Sarie God Bless Martie and Brian

+++++++++

Mike Fraser

Memorial Service: There will be a memorial service for the late Mike Fraser on Friday 20^th January at 3 p.m. in the P.E. Chapel – refreshments afterwards at home in Marlborough. All friends invited to attend to celebrate Mike’s life. reps@mweb.co.zw

REPS awards

African Distillers has very generously once again agreed to sponsor the annual Repertory Players awards event, and the ceremony and show will be held on the Main Stage at 7pm on Saturday March 10. As always, all members and supporters are invited to attend (more information and reminders closer to the time). The judges panel has made its deliberations and has announced nominees for the various awards for 2011, so it’s congratulations to all the following people and shows, who have been honoured and recognised through these nominations, from which a winner will be announced in each category at the awards event:




2011 Reps Afdis Awards Nominees



Best Actor in a Leading Role

Mike Southall – Jesus My Boy

Kevin Hanssen – Much Ado About Nothing

Alex Fairlie – Humble Boy

Zoran Zec – Rent



Best Actress in a Leading Role

Fiona Garrity – Shirley Valentine

Ashleigh-May Bawden – Much Ado About Nothing

Moira Kennedy – Caroline’s Man

Tina Masawi – Rent



Best Supporting Actor

Alex Fairlie – Magic

Mike Blackburn – Much Ado About Nothing

Paul Shephard – Much Ado About Nothing

Stéphane Thomas – Robinson Crusoe

David Bvumbe – Much Ado About Nothing



Best Supporting Actress

Lara Hundermark – Sherlock Holmes

Sue Bolt – Robinson Crusoe

Betty Hobbs – Humble Boy

Gabrielle Levey – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Kyla Render – Magic

Natasha Nguni – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Erin Cooper – Much Ado About Nothing



Best Minor Performance

Mike Blackburn – Humble Boy

Yeukai Chihambakwe – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Alex Fairlie – Much Ado About Nothing

Marc Thomas – Dream Lover

Michael Bawden – Much Ado About Nothing

Richard Sticklen – Much Ado About Nothing

Erin Cooper – Rent



Best Junior Performance

Amy Bolt – Robinson Crusoe

Jason Bolt – Robinson Crusoe

Kayla Thomas – Robinson Crusoe



Best Comedy Performance

James Mukwindidza – Robinson Crusoe

Yeukai Chihambakwe – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Mike Blackburn – Much Ado About Nothing

David Bvumbe – NOughties

Betty Hobbs – Humble Boy

Ashleigh-May Bawden – Much Ado About Nothing



Most Outstanding Musical Performance

Dean Jones – Dream Lover

Tina Masawi – Rent

Zoran Zec – Rent

Nicola Kinnaird – Dream Lover

Kirby Chipembere – Rent



Best Technical

Mike Blackburn – Set Design – Humble Boy

Elinor Kennedy – Costumes – Much Ado About Nothing

Karen Howard-Beard – Lighting Design and Operation – Rent

Munya Magwaro – Set Design – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Tim Garrard – Lighting Design – Much Ado About Nothing

Sue McLaren – Décor – Humble Boy



Best First Performance

Ashleigh-May Bawden – Much Ado About Nothing

James Mukwindidza – Robinson Crusoe

Michael Bawden – Much Ado About Nothing

Moira Kennedy – Caroline’s Man



Best Contribution to Dance and Movement

June Cloete – Dream Lover

Caroline Yule – Robinson Crusoe



Best Props

Linda Hyde/ Angela Stringer and Gail Cooper – NOughties

Philippa Johnston and Gail Cooper – Fame and the Poet & Magic

Thea Cutler – Caroline’s Man

Colleen Hardy and Ursula Gripper – Dream Lover

Gail Cooper – Humble Boy

Sue McLaren – Rent

Mike Southall/ Sue Bolt – Jesus, My Boy

Jane Burne/Ursula Gripper/Colleen Hardy – Shirley Valentine

Gail Cooper – Happy Haunting

Philippa Johnston – Sherlock Holmes

Gabrielle Levey/Kyla Render – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Gail Cooper – Much Ado About Nothing



Best Stage Manager

PJ Smyth – NOughties

Jane Burne – 5Star Live

Tim Garrard – Fame and the Poet and Magic

Thea Cutler – Caroline’s Man

Jane Burne – Dream Lover

Peter Blackburn – Humble Boy

Ryan Lawrence – Rent

Ryan Lawrence/Jonathan Hall – Jesus My Boy

Jane Burne – Shirley Valentine

Mike Southall – Happy Haunting and Sherlock Holmes

Munya Magwaro – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Jonathan Hall – Motown Golden Jubilee

Jane Burne – Much Ado About Nothing

Linda Hyde – Robinson Crusoe



Best Amateur Director

Linda Hyde – NOughties

Stan Higgins – 5Star Live

Sue Bolt – Fame and the Poet & Magic

Mary Leared – Caroline’s Man

Stan Higgins – Dream Lover

Graham Crutchley – Humble Boy

Sue Bolt – Jesus My Boy

Ryan Lawrence – Sherlock Holmes

Colleen Hardy – Happy Haunting

Kevin Hanssen – Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Mark Robbins – Motown Golden Jubilee

John Dennison – Much Ado About Nothing

Graham Crutchley – Robinson Crusoe



Best Production

The NOughties

5Star Live

Fame and the Poet

Magic

Caroline’s Man

Dream Lover

Humble Boy

Rent

Jesus, My Boy

Shirley Valentine

Sherlock Holmes

Happy Haunting

Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy

Motown Golden Jubilee

Much Ado About Nothing

Robinson Crusoe

Warning

Just to warn all you women out there. It just happened to me like an hour ago. I went to the bank in msasa to draw cash. I then walked out the bank, noticed a black merc with no number plates and the guards talking to them by the window. I was parked next to it. I got in my car and drove out towards Mr Tyre by the robots. It was red so i stopped. I felt a bump into my car so i looked and saw a guy in a suit stand up and run down the road so i thought he just walked into the back of my car. I then went into Redan petrol station on Mutare road. Putting fuel in, i noticed this car come up behind me so i didn’t even wait for the guy to finish with my car and i drove out. I called Ian and told him what had happened so decided not to go to the school and just go straight to the workshop where ian would be waiting for me. I didn’t see the car behind me so thought it would be ok. I got to the round about by jaggers and saw the car behind again, so i phoned ian again to let him know it was still following. I drove in the first gate, saw ian was waiting outside the premises in his car outside Charles High Diesel. I got out the car and they started driving in the other gate. Ian smashed the car from behind, another guy got into his car and went the other gate to help but they got away. No one could catch them. They drove up Harare Drive.




I went back to the bank with my dad. I have seen the guy that was at the bank. On CCTV, it showed that i walked in, he came in behind me, didn’t go to a teller, he was walking up and down passing, i finished and it showed he walked out infront of me. So there is a police report and photo of the guy that was in the bank with me. I then saw the bump into my car was actually a slash in my tyre. So he didn’t bump into my car, he slashed my tyre and followed to see when i had stopped on the road with a flat and they would have got me. There were 3 of them.



Everyone, be aware and notice everything. It is the most scary thing i have ever experienced in my life.



Kerry Bond



Later comment - This happened on Monday around 1230. Well started at the bank when i noticed them and the CCTV shows he followed me in at about 1210. They still followed me into Redan on Mutare road and still into the premises of my work until they saw me outside and pointed then they realised they were had. But too late. We should have waited for them to come fully inside, then there would have been no way for them to escape.

response I received from the Supt in charge of Public Relations at Police Head quarters here in Harare

Dear Reader,


This is the quick response I received this afternoon from the Supt in charge of Public Relations at Police Head quarters here in Harare regarding an earlier email I sent out this morning Regards Mike G ...........

Thanks Mike for the issues that you keep bringing to our attention.

Allow me to reassure the concerned citizens and the nation at large that despite individual failings of some police officers, as an organisation we always seek to live to the sdtandards enunciated in the Police Service Charter which I believe the nation at large is now familliar with. The charter exhorts every police officer to be effective whether on the road, at the station or anywhere where a duty is to be performed. Diligenxe, hnesty and courteousness are to be the hallmarks of a treue police officer. Where there are deviations from this guiding principle, the organisation has provided an avenue for members of the public to alert those in authority so that corrective action can be taken. We do not seek to harrass those that we police but let me haqsten to point out that as law enforcement agents , it is importannt that we get the cooperation of those that we police. It must also be noted that world over, it is difficult to please everybody. Being concious of one's rights is important, but more important is the need to fight for them and ensure that no one, not even the police can trumple upon these God gven rights. This is the essence of why the police in its corporate endevours to create a transparent organisation, avenues for making complaints against the police have been provided for. It is not sufficient to just cry foul without seeking a redrress of the situation. I want to urge the complainant to take note of the place of occurance, the time of day, nature of nuisance and even the force numbers of the officers and forward the complaint to the Police Complaints Desk either in person or by telephoning (04) 703631 or faxing at the same number. The complaint can even be emailed using the following email address:

theoutpostmag@yahoo.com.

I hope this response address some of the concerns raised

CONDOLENCES

NKOMO - ALECK

Our respected colleague and friend, will be sorely missed by all the Staff of Rodor Properties
NKOMO - ALECK

Words cannot express our sadness at the sudden passing of our dear friend Aleck, you will be in our hearts forever Heartfelt condolences to the family on your sad loss

De Caila family
++++++++++
Fiona Mcgregor Judge

So sad that one of my friends from KG1 at Baines has passed away in NZ So many happy Bulawayo memories Sweet dreams Fiona
Carole Gilbert Broughton, Castlemaine, Victoria

++++++
Please could you record my condolences to Arthur Heron's family ?
Arthur was our family butcher for many years, first at the Dundee Butchery and then on his own I remember going into the shop one day and seeing Arthur standing over the Newspaper which was spread out on the floor I asked what on earth he was doing??? he said "reading the paper, my arms have grown too short, I can only read it from up here!!""
I think one of Arthur's sons was at Hamilton with William, our younger son
Val Taylor - RSA

Congratulations

'John and Valda Hunt are thrilled and delighted to announce the Engagement of their Daughter, Natalie, to Jackie, eldest son of Selwyn and Sonia Solomon, Cape Town '

SEEKING FAMILY


I am doing this on behalf a friend Stuart Moir who lives in Cape Town and is trying to trace his aunt Thelma Moir and her four daughters, Margie Moir (may now be Thompson), Beverly, Sheila and ? (name not known) Please ask for any replies to be sent to my address and I will forward on to him.

Please let me know about payment for the advertisement.
Many thanks
Kerry Dilmitis



jpd@zol.co.zw

International Law, Zimbabwean law and the compensation debate.

By Ben Freeth For some years there has been a debate amongst valuators, lawyers, farmers, governments and others as to what farmers should claim compensation for after having had their homes, their businesses, their land with all its developments, their equipment, their crops, their livestock, their wildlife and all they ever worked for, trashed, stolen, destroyed or killed without compensation or restitution.

More than a decade has slipped by since the land invasions began and through that time Zimbabwean law has become more draconian and unjust in terms of the obliteration of property rights and basic human freedoms - and still, even Zimbabwean law is not being applied in any way in terms of compensating those that have been brought into states of destitution through the lawlessness that has been allowed to prevail.

The monster of the controlled anarchy of land invasions continues on in

2012 - and the last white owned farms continue to be grabbed. The farm workers are left in poverty and the country, every year, has to be saved from starving by Britain and America with millions of dollars of their tax payers money going to food aid.

It is clear to any sane thinking person that Zimbabwean law and its application is rotten to the core. Why else would a new constitution be required? Why else would international courts and international jurists be so scathing of it in international legal forums - and international Judgments from international courts strike Zimbabwean law down? Why else would the people of our land be hungry and the demise of our economy through the use of flawed Zimbabwean laws have broken so many records?

It is disturbing therefore to have various valuators insisting that in Zimbabwe we must go by Zimbabwean law.

The crux of the debate for all Zimbabweans who want a better future for the next generation should be "do we choose to be under man and Zimbabwean law; or do we choose to be under God and what is right in International law?"

If we choose to remain under Zimbabwean law we choose to accept that we are under dictatorial tyranny and we choose to live our resultant meager fearful

lives accordingly. When a paltry plate of compensation is offered we must

accept it and allow that title to be swallowed up in the sands of time by the state for purposes of controlling the people, knowing that under state ownership it will never be very productive again - and Zimbabwe will limp on with its beggar hands out to the rest of the world to feed its people. We can only dream then of what was, and what was not to be.

If we choose to accept that Zimbabwean law is wrong then it is incumbent on us to choose to throw fear aside and stand for God and what is right in international law. We choose then to do everything we can to understand and use what is right in international conventions, international treaties, international financial institutions, international companies and international organizations and governments to put pressure on what is wrong in the Zimbabwean system that is doing so much to destroy so many lives.

If we all dare to stand unashamedly for God and what is right in international law, we will find that over time, what is right in international law will prevail. Property rights will be respected. The next generation will be able to rebuild our farms, schools, hospitals, businesses, electricity sources, roads, and other infrastructure. With that Zimbabwe will take its place internationally as a nation of hope - employing its people productively and exporting its surplus food to the countries around that have chosen the other road - the one that we are on now - which is called tyranny.

It is the time that the valuators gave their clients a choice: "do you wish to be like Esau and sell your birthright - everything you have ever worked for-for a bowl of stew? Or do you want everything possible to be done to ensure that international law prevails?"

Ben Freeth

Professor John Loveridge

Professor John Loveridge passed away suddenly on Monday 9th Jan 2012, in Harare.
Professor of dept Biological Sciences at UZ and recently teacher at St Johns School .
Dear Husband of Nan, father to Andy and Jo, Mo and Chris, grandfather to Oliver, Ben and Michael.
Memorial service, Friday 13th January, 11.00am at St Georges Chapel.
All welcome.
Family phone no. 04-884660

Reps Reporter

Best wishes to you all for 2012 – here’s hoping for a great year for you, for Reps and for Zimbabwe! December was an extremely busy month for Reps and the pantomime was very successful at the box office, bringing in a great many people to enjoy the build-up to Christmas. On stage now is the very exciting Boeing Boeing, rated highly by all those who have seen it so far. The rest of the year holds forth great promise and we hope to present some excellent shows, with great variety, between now and the year end.


Zane E Lucas joins the team

Exco has decided the time is right to appoint a Director of Productions, the first since the late Adrian Stanley held the post until his retirement in the mid-2000s. Zane E Lucas has agreed to take on the role and he is already in place, with a commitment to stage a number of productions under his personal direction and to take on the responsibility of helping to further improve standards of Reps productions all round. We welcome Zane to the team and wish him well. He is a highly experienced actor and director and brings with him talent, enthusiasm, energy and a commitment to taking Reps to even greater heights. An official announcement of this development will be made shortly to the public at large.

Boeing Boeing gets rave reviews

Zane’s current production is Boeing Boeing, a revival and update of the classic farce about a man with three air hostess fiancées. It opened to a near full house on New Year’s Eve and completes its run on Saturday January 14. Don’t miss this excellent show, which has been gaining rave reviews. On Saturday night, an additional offering is a First Class experience … in keeping with the theme of the show. Rows K and L have been reserved for First Class passengers, who get pre-show snacks, drinks and entertainment in the Members’ Bar before being ‘boarded’ in the theatre. Have fun and take advantage of this option. Booking for this, and for all remaining performances, is open at The Spotlight. The show stars Ryan lawrence, Paul Shephard, Chido Maunze, Jamie McLaren, Kyla Render and Mike Blackburn.

Harare’s Got Talent 4 ready to roll

More new talent will be platformed at our fourth show in the Harare’s Got Talent series … in which performers of any kind are invited to show off their talent and stage skills. This will be at 7pm on Saturday January 28. Anyone wishing to be in the show, whatever their age, performance skill or experience, can contact the Reps office to find out about the try-out on January 21. Encourage performers to take part and then come along to see them all in action. We already have several singers and dance groups lined up. Proceeds from this show will go to Reps and to the Dance Trust of Zimbabwe. Book at The Spotlight. All tickets are $10 for this show.

Music to make you Shout!

Next up on Main stage is the musical revue Shout! This is a sequel to the February/March shows of the past few years Those Were The Days, Top Of The Pops, Seasons In The Sun and Dream Lover, this year featuring songs from the 60s, 70s and 80s. The cast of more than 30 singers and a dozen or so dancers is already in rehearsal for the show, which runs February 16 (preview night Feb 15) to March 3. Direction is by Stan Higgins, musical direction by Iona Jones and choreography by June Cloete. It will be a great treat of show and everyone’s invited to come along and enjoy some great entertainment and to sing and dance along if they so wish. Booking is now open and early booking is recommended if previous ticket sales of these shows are to be repeated.

2011 Reps Afdis Awards coming up

African Distillers is once again kindly and generously sponsoring the annual Reps awards event, with judges already having met and made their decisions for 2011. The ceremony and show will be on Saturday March 10 and all members are invited to be there to see who wins in the various categories and to honour all those nominated from our selection of productions during the past year. There is no booking for this show, which will be at 7pm that evening. An announcement of nominations is being sent out, so you will know the finalists in the running for the trophies.

In rehearsal soon … two superb plays

Zane E Lucas is soon to start rehearsals for Neil Simon’s semi-auto-biographical Chapter Two, a great comedy to run on the Main Stage and penned by a master of the genre, while Graham Crutchley will start rehearsing Colder Than Here, described as a comedy-drama, which will run in Theatre Upstairs. Auditions for these productions will be held on Sunday January 22, so why not come along and try out for a role? Bookings will open at the end of January.

Members’ Bar busy with great entertainment

The social events scene in the members’ bar has been a great hit this past year, thanks to Tim Garrard and Jenni Ferguson … and they have much more in store, including Ryan Koriya on January 13, The Weakest Link on January 22 and Rob Osborne on January 27. These are highly entertaining evenings and we invite all members and their guests to come along for a super social evening in good company, usually with accompanying food and, of course, our bar, which is now better stocked than for many years!

Snippets

Preps is looking for a new co-ordinator, Katie Cooper having had to give up because of pressure of study and work (thanks to Katie for the past few years’ hard work!). The group will start meeting this Saturday, January 14.

Repteens start 2012 this Friday, January 13, with co-ordinator Kyla render planning great things for the group – including a Main Stage show in April.

Front of House and Box Office teams are looking for new volunteers. Please contact the Reps office if you would like to join a team, be on a team or get trained to do box office. Current volunteers are reminded of this year’s social/briefing sessions – January 17 (6pm) and January 21 (12 noon); choose which one to attend and advise either Graham Crutchley or Stan Higgins.

Sue Charnley has very kindly organised a clean-up of the gardens running from the car park to the foyer and it is already looking GREAT. Thanks to her and her helpers for this effort! She also arranged paint for portions of the theatre building to be upgraded.

Dress-Up Heaven (aka the Reps Wardrobe) is open until 6pm most evenings, thanks to Collina Mvududu and her willingness to be open at a more convenient time for some of our patrons.

Did you know …

… that sponsors are now being sought for all Repertory Players’ productions, to help the theatre keep shows running and to boost the standard of inputs into shows? If you would like to know more about sponsoring a show then please contact the Reps office. Spar Zimbabwe sponsored the pantomime and this enabled the team to get the staging and costumes arranged timeously, as well as help ensure that proceeds from ticket sales can be ploughed into Reps’ running costs and developmental expenditure.
Until next time
Keep well
Reps Executive Committee

Mary Seaman,

Death Notice - Mary Seaman, formerly of Debera Farm in Darwendale, passed away at her home in Chisipite on Tuesday, 3^rd January 2012, after a long battle with cancer.  There will be a Celebration of Life Service for Mary at No. 22 Kingsmead , Borrowdale, Harare on Saturday, 14^th January 2012, at 10.30am for 11.00am, followed by tea & refreshments. The family have requested attendees to please wear cheerful colourful clothes.Donations in lieu of flowers to be made to Cancer Island Hospice. Contact: jessgoregraham@handleycross.net

JOHN PERI LOVERIDGE

The Funeral service for the Late JOHN PERI LOVERIDGE will take place a St Georges College Chaple on Friday 13/1/2012 at 11am followed by a private cremation, Friends kindly accecpt this intimation. Nuffield Funeral Home ( Phone 0772368418/ 0772685601)                      

Car-Jacking in Mt Pleasant area.

Car-Jacking in Mt Pleasant area.  On Friday, 6^th January I was the victim of an attempted carjacking on Southfields Road in Mount Pleasant.  I was going slowly through a “pothole” and unfortunately had my driver’s window all the way down when a pedestrian who had been walking towards me and was now passing me dove in through my window and tried to take my keys out of the ignition and kept telling me to get out of the car.  A struggle ensued between us, during which he bit me quite badly on my back.  I managed to get away, but he did take my bag as second prize.  Please if anyone has found my purse containing my driver’s licence and bank cards please can you contact me on 0772 402 559.  Many thanks. Michelle Hartnett

Mike Frase

Death Notice : It is with regret that we have to advise of the passing of Mike Fraser on Monday morning and we send our deepest sympathy to Wendy and his family.  A memorial service will be held on a date to be advised.

Graham Taunton

The memorial for the late Graham Taunton will be held at Wild Geese, Tiviotdale, Harare, at 10.30am on the 11th January 2012.

Trevor Taunton
Cell: +27 (0)83-521 0330
Phone: +27 (0)41-379 3417
Fax: +27 (0)86-541 0739
efmi@isat.co.za
http://www.skyaqua.co.za/

Ted Nelson

Ted Nelson - ex Air Rhodesia - passed away this afternoon in the UK. Sybil is being very brave but she is going to miss him so much and I am sure would appreciate any of their friends contacting her. He was one of my oldest friends and one of the great people in travel in Zimbabwe.

Cellphone found

Cellphone found in Chirara.  Please state make, colour, and some of the contacts to claim. donmacintosh@zol.co.zw

Attempted Robbery

In the Clarendon Circle / Hyde Road area, there was an attempted break-in at our neighbours yard on Christmas day, around 4pm, broad daylight - both families were away, but this was thankfully foiled by some local folk who had gathered at the corner, and noticed a Silver Toyota Prius, accident damaged at the back, pull into the drive way, with 5 men inside. Two jumped the fence into our neighbours, at the corner of our yard, using the wall to assist them, carrying a bag which we assume held tools to break in with.  The driver stayed with the car and the other two men stood guard.  One of the locals run up to question the men in the car, as to their business there, which spooked them and they drove off, after the other two were called back.     Our neighbour went scouting the next day and the same car was parked again in the area.  He rushed off to collect police but they got away. Local police have been given details

Missing personal items

Missing personal items – Reward Offered – Robbery in Emerald Hill on 31^st December 2011.  Stolen: TV – Samsung 34” flat screen, DVD player – Panasonic slim-line silver in colour, clothes (including HEAPS of triathalon / Iron Man t-shirts, belts, ALL the trainers / tackies in the house (kids included), perfume, torches, cell phones, passports (Lucy and Gary Wood – Zimbabwean), bathroom linen, 5 watches, bags, satchels, men’s slops and all underwear (?!?!), Swiss army knives, nails sets, cordless hair clippers - but worst of all, in the safe, was the jewelry I had just inherited from my mum – various chunky rings with solitaire diamonds, signet ring x 2, necklaces.  Please phone Nic 0772 714 714 or mail on nicolabathwood@zol.co.zw

Val Robison

Death Notices -  Val Robison beloved wife of rob passed away on 30^th december after a courageous battle with cancer. The memorial and thanksgiving service for her life will be held at highlands Presbyterian church at 11 a.m. Tuesday 10^th January. please no flowers. donations in lieu to island hospice or cancer research.

Award Congratulations

Award Congratulations- Major Peter John Rowell, of Royal Engineers,  son of Liz Brown of Wales and the Late Johnny Rowell, formally of Darwendale Zimbabwe, was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honors List. 

School terms for 2012 confirmed by the Ministry of Education

School terms for 2012 confirmed by the Ministry of Education are :-


Tuesday 10 January to Thursday 5 April,

Tuesday 8 May to Thursday 9 August,

Tuesday 11 September to Thursday 6 December.

More fireworks comments

I agree that the fireworks should be banned. Neighbours all around us having been letting them off from before Christmas and still last night I heard the odd firecracker. My dogs are traumatized by the whole thing and in addition to this my daughter has a six month old baby who is woken up by the continuous noise of these crackers throughout the night. The children next door even went so far as to throw one over our durawall. Unfortunately I did not catch them doing this but found the cracker the next day. I have no objections to firecrackers being let off on certain days at the right venues. Firecrackers used to be let off on certain days and we could plan for these days but it seems that any day is cracker day now!

The issue is not with the fireworks, it is the dog owners – my dogs don’t even budge and none of my previous dogs worried about them either – it is the owners panicking when they hear fireworks and the dogs will react to that energy. If you don’t believe that then think about this - If a fear of loud noises is intrinsic to the dogs why don’t all dogs show fear with fireworks? There would not be gun dogs, police dogs etc. Please owners for the sake of your dogs, notice how you feel when you hear fireworks and be calm – don’t get stressed because that is what your dog is reacting to.

Thanks for the input on fireworks - but it is not only the animals. The flea market fireworks are not safe and do not have the safety conditions required by First World countries. One of our top surgeons was deeply distressed in December when he was unable to save the fingers of a thirteen year old child, who has lost ALL the fingers of one hand following an accident with a firework. In developed countries children are not allowed to buy fireworks at all, and indeed they should be banned.

..........

I would definitely support a ban of fireworks - during this festive season, I have watched as my happy, confident, well-balanced young dog has turned into a shivering mess who now spends most of her day hiding under my bed, and is even fearful on her daily walk. If fireworks were restricted to midnight on New Year's Eve, that would be one thing - but they've been going on for days now and just when my dog starts to recover, another bang sends her panicking again.
I agree with a lot of what has been said but what also should be discussed is the inconsideration of alot (not all) of dog owners who allow the incessant barking of their pets to go on unabated with absolutely no consideration to their neighbours. I do not have a problem with a dog barking if there is a situation developing warranting the owners attention - I do however have a huge problem when a dog(s) are just left unattended by their owners. It is actually a sign of neglect on behalf of the owners in that the animal is usually bored and not correctly cared for . So a lot of owners out their take responsibility for your animal as well and have consideration for your neighbours

..............

Fireworks in South Africa. Believe me fireworks have not been banned in SA and if they have then the banning force have turned a blind eye to it. My husband and I spent the New Years Eve in Pietermaritzburg (on the edge of town)with friends and the fireworks started round about 6.30pm - our friends had given their 3 beautiful dogs calming tabs we had picked up from the vet in the morning, and we were warned that by midnight and beyond we would think we were in Beirut - this proved to be correct - we have never experienced anything quit like it, and I could not settled as I was so distressed for all the animals and birds out there, they must have been terrified beyond belief. Apart from being dangerous, terrifying animals, it is a complete waste of money, money which could be given to Animal Sanctuaries, Orphanages and Old Age homes - let's push for a TOTAL BAN on fireworks!

........

I agree with all that has been said about the Fireworks issue. Can’t we send in a partition, sheets for signature could be held at the SPCA and all Vets, and the sent in to the Mayor or some such person who could present it to Government to become law. Just an idea! But if animal lovers don’t do something nothing will happen, and how can people with animals leave them locked outside when they know they are suffering, if they were in the house then so what, I’m sure arrangements can be made. That’s what I do.

..............

Support this 1000%, completely ban them, what can we do to help, we need the vets on our side here to educate people how sensitive animals hearing is, we hear nothing compared to them, very anti fireworks & animal cruelty

......

I absolutely agree with the reader below on the fireworks front. On the 30th in the Milton Park area, I called the police about what I believed to be one property consistently using fireworks for many weeks. My dog was foaming at the mouth from barking voraciously at the bangs, racing up and down to seek the source of the threat and refused to eat as he does during these times.

The Milton Park Police sorted out the problem but said that it wasn't just the one property. They also said that no one was allowed to use fireworks without their prior permission and that of the users' neighbours.

Therefore, although fireworks aren't banned, we can refuse our neighbours permission to use them.

I agree that the fireworks should be banned. Neighbours all around us having been letting them off from before Christmas and still last night I heard the odd firecracker. My dogs are traumatized by the whole thing and in addition to this my daughter has a six month old baby who is woken up by the continuous noise of these crackers throughout the night. The children next door even went so far as to throw one over our durawall. Unfortunately I did not catch them doing this but found the cracker the next day. I have no objections to firecrackers being let off on certain days at the right venues. Firecrackers used to be let off on certain days and we could plan for these days but it seems that any day is cracker day now!


........

The issue is not with the fireworks, it is the dog owners – my dogs don’t even budge and none of my previous dogs worried about them either – it is the owners panicking when they hear fireworks and the dogs will react to that energy. If you don’t believe that then think about this - If a fear of loud noises is intrinsic to the dogs why don’t all dogs show fear with fireworks? There would not be gun dogs, police dogs etc. Please owners for the sake of your dogs, notice how you feel when you hear fireworks and be calm – don’t get stressed because that is what your dog is reacting to.

...........

Thanks for the input on fireworks - but it is not only the animals. The flea market fireworks are not safe and do not have the safety conditions required by First World countries. One of our top surgeons was deeply distressed in December when he was unable to save the fingers of a thirteen year old child, who has lost ALL the fingers of one hand following an accident with a firework. In developed countries children are not allowed to buy fireworks at all, and indeed they should be banned.

..........

I would definitely support a ban of fireworks - during this festive season, I have watched as my happy, confident, well-balanced young dog has turned into a shivering mess who now spends most of her day hiding under my bed, and is even fearful on her daily walk. If fireworks were restricted to midnight on New Year's Eve, that would be one thing - but they've been going on for days now and just when my dog starts to recover, another bang sends her panicking again.

............

I agree with a lot of what has been said but what also should be discussed is the inconsideration of alot (not all) of dog owners who allow the incessant barking of their pets to go on unabated with absolutely no consideration to their neighbours. I do not have a problem with a dog barking if there is a situation developing warranting the owners attention - I do however have a huge problem when a dog(s) are just left unattended by their owners. It is actually a sign of neglect on behalf of the owners in that the animal is usually bored and not correctly cared for . So a lot of owners out their take responsibility for your animal as well and have consideration for your neighbours

..............

Fireworks in South Africa. Believe me fireworks have not been banned in SA and if they have then the banning force have turned a blind eye to it. My husband and I spent the New Years Eve in Pietermaritzburg (on the edge of town)with friends and the fireworks started round about 6.30pm - our friends had given their 3 beautiful dogs calming tabs we had picked up from the vet in the morning, and we were warned that by midnight and beyond we would think we were in Beirut - this proved to be correct - we have never experienced anything quit like it, and I could not settled as I was so distressed for all the animals and birds out there, they must have been terrified beyond belief. Apart from being dangerous, terrifying animals, it is a complete waste of money, money which could be given to Animal Sanctuaries, Orphanages and Old Age homes - let's push for a TOTAL BAN on fireworks!

........

I agree with all that has been said about the Fireworks issue. Can’t we send in a partition, sheets for signature could be held at the SPCA and all Vets, and the sent in to the Mayor or some such person who could present it to Government to become law. Just an idea! But if animal lovers don’t do something nothing will happen, and how can people with animals leave them locked outside when they know they are suffering, if they were in the house then so what, I’m sure arrangements can be made. That’s what I do.

..............

Support this 1000%, completely ban them, what can we do to help, we need the vets on our side here to educate people how sensitive animals hearing is, we hear nothing compared to them, very anti fireworks & animal cruelty

......

I absolutely agree with the reader below on the fireworks front. On the 30th in the Milton Park area, I called the police about what I believed to be one property consistently using fireworks for many weeks. My dog was foaming at the mouth from barking voraciously at the bangs, racing up and down to seek the source of the threat and refused to eat as he does during these times.

The Milton Park Police sorted out the problem but said that it wasn't just the one property. They also said that no one was allowed to use fireworks without their prior permission and that of the users' neighbours.

Therefore, although fireworks aren't banned, we can refuse our neighbours permission to use them.

Subject: Dogs and Fireworks - comments from residents

I absolutely agree that fireworks should be banned in Zimbabwe. We have had so many pets lost and found at the surgery over the last week or so. My neighbours have been letting off fireworks since before Christmas and were still letting them off last night – my pets are terrified, run around the house in absolutely panic and won’t eat. If fireworks were only allowed at midnight on New Years day at least we all know it is just for the one night and give our pets tranquillizers, but for the fireworks to go on and on night after night is insane and very cruel. Let fireworks be banned PLEASE!! However, owners should also make sure that their pets are kept safe on a secured property and not on the roads and please make sure your dog has a collar and nametag so we can find their owners! Please contact us on 339971/2 if you have lost or found a dog.

-------------------------------------------------------

Our dogs tremble uncontrollably and cannot be calmed when the firework go off and i agree that it should be banned. We live in Greystone Park and they did go off for ages and ages on new years eve and again last night. It is very unfair on our animals, (and us!)

.......
Thanks for the comments - we would also totally back any move to ban fireworks as we too felt every rocket, cracker and bang with the animals in Harare. Our lab who is normally fine as long as he is with us, was totally traumatised and the whole night, plus other nights, have been very stressful. Do people not realise how these noises traumatise all animals - the mind boggles.

Hope 2012 is a good year for you and for everyone.

..........

I live in Chisipite and heard as well the fireworks all last night. My 3 dogs were so stressed they dig holes all around the garden.

I would support the idea to ban the fireworks except some days and limited to certain hours.

...........

Re; Fireworks – I agree 1000000000% they SHOULD be banned. We had a terrible time this so called festive season with our poor dog wetting herself, scratching at the door all night and did not go out at all for New Years because of our poor animals, the cat made herself a cave inside the desk drawer and would be hidden for hours on end. The dog is still very traumatized and that is after sleeping inside for the past couple of

............

Hi Mike – I am so with the fireworks being banned – its got bad here in Harare – I accept that people let fireworks off at New Year, it has become a bit of a tradition but New Year is the 31st! Its one night! And the fireworks are supposed to be let off at MIDNIGHT not from sundown to sunup!

I would support any initiative to have them banned. But I can see there being massive resistance so why not ban them accept under controlled circumstances, keep them to specific areas not near residential areas and only to be let off for a short period of time. Maybe a compromise can be reached. The thing that has upset me the most is that not only did they let off fireworks the entire night of the 31st – which is frustrating enough – it has now spread to the night of the 1st and last night our area was still being bombarded by the constant bombshelling of fireworks. Its JUST NOT ON – my animals a terrified and have now had THREE nights of it!

Any initiative to ban the fireworks or at least reach a compromise that is suitable to the protection of animals I say GO FOR IT!!!

Thank you for inviting us to send in some comments. I have had a most difficult time with my dog who seems to have become completely freaked out by the fireworks as well as thunder and any other bangs. Over this last two weeks, there were fireworks going off at any time of the night and on any date. My vet has decided to try and calm my dog by keeping her at his surgery for at least 10 days. This is all very unsettling and disturbing for everyone.

Comments

Dogs and Fireworks: I would like to comment on this seemingly growing problem of "fireworks mania" in Harare.


Last night was an absolute nightmare in the Greystone Park area of Harare! They must have started letting off fireworks at about 7.30pm, but at midnight to about 1am it became like a total war zone with explosions going off every few seconds, some very loud, for about 15 minutes! Most of us know how frightening this is for our 4-legged friends at the least - but to be exposed to it for about 5 hours must have been like sheer torture for them! I know that ours were going bollistic and the only way we could calm them down a bit was to give them tranquilisers. I'd hate to know how many lost, traumatised dogs are on the roads this morning. I even woke up at about 3am with my whole body trembling!!



We have since heard that in SA fireworks are banned, and if anyone is caught letting them off they are fined. What I want to ask you - do you think it would be worth trying to get them banned here and if so, do you have any idea of how we can go about it? I am sure there must be many animal lovers out there that feel the same way about it that I do.

...........

Housebreaking and Theft: We were enjoying a farm new year with family but woke up yesterday morning (1st January 2012) to a phone call to say that our house had been broken into. We live at 9 Townsend Road, Emerald Hill and the thieves had a field day!



Our house was locked and alarmed (both inside and outside) and they gained access over the main road wall. Having tried to break in through my youngest daughter’s room and realizing they weren’t winning, they smashed the bathroom window, broke through the burglar bars, crow-barred the main bedroom door open causing extensive damage and duly ransacked every drawer, cupboard, handbag, toiletry bag, plus plus plus …. Nothing was left un-turned including mattresses. They then chiseled out the safe in the wall and stole the whole safe. They went through all the bedrooms and bathrooms with vigilance. This wasn’t enough, went back outside and tried to get into the living area by bending the aluminium lounge doors but thankfully bending them too badly to slide open.



They got away with a TV – Samsung 34” flat screen, DVD player – Panasonic slim-line silver in colour, clothes (including HEAPS of triathalon / Iron Man t-shirts, belts, ALL the trainers / tackies in the house (kids included), perfume, torches, cell phones, passports, money ($2k+ - school fees ), bathroom linen, 5 watches, bags, satchels, men’s slops and all underwear (?!?!), Swiss army knives, nails sets, cordless hair clippers - but worst of all, in the safe, was the jewelry I had just inherited from my mum.



Avondale Police – Constable Zenda was extremely helpful as were the CID – Inspector Mhaza who took fingerprints.



If ANYONE in our area saw a car parked on Townsend Road late on Saturday 31st December 2011 or men milling about, please either let Tess know immediately (Emerald Hill Neighbourhood Watch) or myself (0772 714 714) so we can let the police know.



Again, if ANYONE is approached with suspicious items for sale, please report it IMMEDIATELY. Any jewelers out there who are approached with an array of rings (all gold and diamond), necklaces or watches (one dress watch and 4 x training watches), please let me know via SMS or phone call OR let Avondale Police Station – Constable Zenda know.

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Year of the Community: Good on you for encouraging the need for community. I think many of your points are now becoming more relevant for the urban dwellers, who for some time have managed to stay somewhat more insulated from the harshness that visited the country district communities from mid '90's until mid 2000's, where the pressure to fracture and fold one's hand was intense. Having lived through the heat of the acquisition exercise, I have clear memories of how the importance of community came to the fore amongst the farmers and their families and workers, which provided stability and strength to persevere. Cultivating a clear sense of community will certainly provide much in the way of the needed practical building blocks for the future.

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In Memoriam

Hickey, Frank Anthony Francis. Beloved father of Sherrol , Cliff, Tony, Fredrick, Errol and Zane. Remembered with great love. Contact:- sherrols@zol.co.zw

Death Notice

TATOS - Fred. Passed away on 23rd December in Cape Town after a long battle with brain cancer. Funeral on Thursday 29th December in Cape Town. Contact:- strydom@mailme.ae

HEAVY RAIN ALERT

Indications from the SADC Climate Service Centre are that the second half of the rainfall season, that is, January, February and March is still expected to be characterized by mostly normal to above normal rainfall as per the original Seasonal Forecast for 2011 /2012.
According to the Meteorological Services in Zimbabwe, heavy rains are expected from 30th December 2011 to 2nd January 2012. Parts of Mashonaland Provinces, Harare, Matabeleland North and parts of Manicaland are expected to receive in excess of 80millimeters of rainfall. These rains are expected to be accompanied by gusty winds and hail.

Further to that, the Zambezi River Authority has scheduled the opening of one spillway gate on Lake Kariba on 3rd January 2012 at 1200hrs. This will automatically increase the river level and flow downstream of the Lake.

Given the foregoing there is increased risk of flash flooding and flooding for low lying areas and areas that usually flood. There is also risk of roofs being blown off and some houses may succumb to excessive moisture and collapse.

Accordingly the general public is advised to take necessary steps to avoid danger. It is critical to listen to warnings and generally observe rainfall activity and avoid venturing out unnecessarily. In case of strong winds, shelter in a house with the most secure roof and close all windows and doors. In case of flooding, timely move to higher ground. Avoid working in fields located across rivers or streams.

Issued by,

Sibusisiwe Ndlovu, Acting Director, Department of Civil Protection 29th December 2011

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