Zimbabwe Lifestyle

Be aware

2012-01-27T23:24:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-27T23:13:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-24T23:27:00.000-08:00

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
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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

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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

2012-01-24T23:23:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-19T22:37:00.001-08:00

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?

2012-01-19T02:18:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:43:00.001-08:00

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)

2012-01-19T01:42:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:39:00.000-08:00

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)

2012-01-19T01:36:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:29:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:28:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:17:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:14:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:13:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-12T23:30:00.000-08:00

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

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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

2012-01-12T23:27:00.000-08:00

'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 '

2012-01-12T23:20:00.001-08:00

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.

2012-01-12T23:19:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-12T23:16:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-12T23:02:00.000-08:00

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,

2012-01-12T22:44:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-12T22:34:00.002-08:00

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.

2012-01-12T22:34:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-12T22:32:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-07T00:23:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-04T22:08:00.000-08:00

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

Attempted Robbery

2012-01-04T22:06:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-04T22:05:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-04T21:58:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-04T21:57:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-03T22:27:00.003-08:00

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.

2012-01-03T22:27:00.001-08:00

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

2012-01-03T22:24:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-02T23:04:00.001-08:00

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.

……………….

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.

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

In Memoriam

2012-01-01T01:42:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-01T01:40:00.001-08:00

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

________________________________________

Obituary: Peter Garlake 1934-2011

2011-12-31T22:40:00.000-08:00

Saturday, 31 December 2011 15:53

By Jonathan Waters

AT least to the academic world, Peter Garlake put to rest the “Mystery of Great Zimbabwe” with his 1973 publication on the greatest historical site in sub-Saharan Africa. Great Zimbabwe, the ruined stone settlement brought to the attention of Western world by Karl Mauch in the late 19th Century, was the capital of a local Shona state, having reached its zenith in the 14th Century AD.

The white settlers had found that keeping the “mystery” alive by suggesting Rhodesia was the Ophir of the Ancients, not only helped drive tourism, but satisfied their own racist ideals in that the blacks were not sophisticated enough to build this great stone structure on their own.

For the myth to thrive, the Rhodesians had it that ruins were built by the Queen of Sheba, with King Solomon’s Mines in close proximity. Garlake, who has died aged 77, resigned his post as Inspector of Monuments in 1970 when it was demanded — in the Rhodesian Parliament no less —that he give an “equal” platform to the “theory” that Great Zimbabwe was built by “light skinned people”.

According to the member for Fort Victoria District, Colonel George Hartley OBE, the “theory” that Great Zimbabwe was erected by indigenous people was “nothing but pure conjecture”.

Where previous archaeologists hid to some degree behind scientific obscurity to make their case for the construction by the local African people, Garlake was unequivocal in his findings:

“Great Zimbabwe must be recognised for what it is — a building of peculiar size and imposing grandeur, the product of two or three centuries of development of an indigenous stone-building technique, itself rooted in long traditions of using stone for field walls, building platforms and terraces.

“The structure reflects the economic dominance and prestige of a small oligarchy that had arisen within an Iron Age subsistence economy.”

Peter Storr Garlake was born in Cape Town on January 11 1934, the son of a soldier, “Dooley” Garlake, later Major-General, Commander of the forces in the Federation of Rhodesia & Nyasaland. His mother Catherine, a South African of Scottish extraction, had a passion for animals and was instrumental in setting up the SPCA in Rhodesia.

After completing senior school at St Georges College in Harare, Garlake went on to read architecture at the University of Cape Town from 1952-1957.

After college, he left for England, finding a job as an architect in London within two days of arriving.

Joining the Catholic Order was also a consideration, and he was drawn to a Carmelite monastery at Aylesford in Kent, where he participated in processions with relics of the revered local saint Simon Stock.

Enrolling at UCL’s Institute of Archaeology in London in 1961 for a post graduate diploma, he met his future wife Margaret, who was studying archaeological conservation.

They married in 1962, the year he was awarded a Nuffield Research Studentship, which took him to the British Institute in Eastern Africa in Dar es Salaam.

Here Garlake studied the architecture and archaeology of medieval Swahili coast towns after which he published The Early Islamic Architecture of the East African Coast (1966).

However, he went on to lecture at the History Department at the University of Zimbabwe in 1984, a year before a full archaeology programme was set up.

While regarded as highly amusing in his private life, professionals found him “prickly”, especially when it came to criticism from amateur and racist quarters, and loony nationalists after 1980.

He received his doctorate in archaeology from SOAS in 1992.

He was fond of ‘dzimbahwes’— houses of stone

A year before UDI in Rhodesia in 1965, Garlake was appointed Inspector of Monuments.

In this position, he visited many of the ruined settlements or dzimbabwes (“houses of stone”) that cover much of modern Zimbabwe, excavating two of the smaller centres.

He also excavated three ancient Portuguese settlements in modern Zimbabwe — Dambarare, Maramuca and Luanze — which had been occupied by the Portuguese until they were overrun by Changamire in the late 17th Century.
However, finding his intellectual integrity increasingly compromised as the racist politics of the settler regime impinged on his domain, he resigned and left the country in 1970.

Having been offered a post at the University of Ife in Nigeria, Garlake led two major excavations of sites with lifelike terracotta heads (now on display in the British Museum).

During this time he also completed his Great Zimbabwe manuscript.

“The major question posed over the years — was Great Zimbabwe the unaided work of indigenous Africans — has created lasting controversy, and probably no other prehistoric site has aroused such strong, widespread and often bizarre emotional responses.”

Garlake’s book brought together the work of early antiquarians and archaeologists such as Randall McIver, ElizabethCaton-Thompson, Roger Summers and Keith Robinson. Being free of the imaginative theories of later archaeological symbolic, Garlake’s work remains the definitive work on the facts of the subject.

From 1976 to 1981, Garlake held an appointment as Lecturer in the Department of Anthropology at University College London during which time he carried out excavations at Manekweni, a stone-walled settlement in Mozambique.
Garlake returned to Zimbabwe after Independence and was reportedly disappointed at not being offered the top post in the National Museums & Monuments.

However, he went on to lecture at the History Department at the University of Zimbabwe in 1984, a year before a full archaeology programme was set up. After his losing a complete manuscript on Zimbabwean Archaeology to a fire at his Borrowdale homestead in the late 1980s, Garlake shifted his focus again: this time to Zimbabwe’s diverse rock art. Building on his earlier work The Painted Caves (1987), it was to culminate in his 1995 treatise, The Hunter's Vision.

This he regarded as his magnum opus and it established Zimbabwean rock art in a field of its own. Garlake popularised it with lecture tours to the US and Europe where he would speak from a lifelike cave of paintings that had been meticulously traced and re-created on a paper mache wall. Drawing on many of the symbolic interpretations of Prof David Lewis-Williams and the trance experience, Garlake went further to draw his own conclusions.

He said there was more to the shamanism of the San people as there was something deeper in the art when it came to the wider religious experience. He hypothesized that “formlings” – oval-shaped images unique to Zimbabwe rock art – were an abstract representation of the physical manifestation of “potency”, which he argued guides the worldview of San people.

Following publication of The Hunter's Vision, he took up rose growing, delivering his produce to florists around Harare. Increasingly he started to divide his time between Harare and London, and published his final book, Early Art and Architecture of Africa, in 2002. An avid theatre goer, Garlake enjoyed visiting cities in Europe and the Middle East, where he fed his love of Islamic architecture. Believing “what you write is your memorial”, Garlake opted for “green burial” and no ceremony. He is survived by sister Carole, his wife Margaret, three children and six grandchildren.

Peter Storr Garlake, archaeologist and architect. Born January 11, 1934. Died December 2, 2011

THE 4X4 CLUB – ZIMBABWE

2011-12-29T00:28:00.000-08:00

THE 4X4 CLUB – ZIMBABWE

Newsletter No: 86 -

December 2011/ January 2012

P O Box HG 594 Highlands Harare Zimbabwe The Motor Sports Club House, 2 Annan Road, Eastlea, Harare.

The Chairman and Editorial Team:

CHAIRMAN: Tim Thorburn 498723 / 0772.645.518 thorburn@mweb.co.zw

EDITORS Mike & Pat GILL 494028 / 0712.400.243 / 0712.440.794 gill@zol.co.zw

4x4 Club Website http://www.4x4.co.zw Face Book Site: 4x4 Zimbabwe

The 4x4 Club is affiliated to the Zimbabwe Motor Sports Federation - ZMSF

Our Club is a member of the Mashonaland Motor Sport Association Club House, situated at: 2 Annan Rd. Eastlea. It is available for hire for weddings, conferences, kid's parties, 21st birthdays, etc.

News, comments and opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Club or the Committee

THE EDITOR’S DESK - Michael and Pat Gill

We will start by wishing our members a very happy Christmas and may all your dreams come true in 2012.

Kenya. Yes, your Editorial team, with Ralph and Rose Stead, were once again employed on the East African Safari Classic Rally. We spent a week touring Kenya and Tanzania in a Prado. Sadly, being a hire car it was a bit shagged, shocks very poor and several little items needed TLC but a great car. It was very wet and muddy but we had no problems there, far more in the Mombasa and Nairobi chaotic traffic. The rally cars all have to be pre-1975, no 4x4 allowed, no turbo's, basically original but brakes and suspension mods are allowed. Porsches are the most common followed by Datsun 260Z and Ford Escorts. Less than half of the crews are Kenyan but the locals, even way out, know their heroes. Ian Duncan (Kenyan) won last year in a Mustang. This year he used a Ford Capri but had troubles and slipped down the list.

If you have watched those crazy guys doing somersaults on MX bikes you may know the name Travis Pastrana. He drove a Porsche (what else) and even got fastest time on one stage. Here is his report of one day so you can see how tough it was. "In the first section the wipers stopped working and on the second the brakes went with 57 ks to go. Then we had a puncture – probably because we were going too fast with no brakes! The last section we had no problems - nothing broke on the car and the section was really fast with lots of jumps. This Rally is absolutely epic - one of the best experiences of my life."

NEW MEMBERS

DOBROPOULOS Costa: Mutare. Well known for his all winning V8 Jeep.

DANBY Edward: Another Mutare driver who has put in lots of time to organise events there.

We expect to have several more Mutare 4x4 members join us this year. Welcome to you all. If you have not been to a Mutare event then make sure you do not miss the next, they are always good and different. See the write up on Dungbeetle.

MEMBER'S NEWS:

Not quite news but an interesting observation. It is good to see so many fathers teaching the youngsters to dive 4x4s. I believe that this is a very good way to teach young drivers proper car control. Anyone can get on a straight road and drive too fast but time spent in a 4x4 in low ratio is very good training in car control. Many of the kids I have seen will not be old enough, 16, for several years to come and yet they drive Dad's 4x4 with amazing skill.

TECHNICAL

Recovery: We all have tow balls on the rear but these were never designed to recover a stuck vehicle. For a start they are in the centre and they often have a breaking load of about 1500 kgs. Make sure you have a strong towing eye in line with the chassis. We have seen too many dangerous, potentially lethal, efforts of snatching a heavy stuck vehicle. At worst only the rope breaks. Never tie a strap or rope to any part of the car, it will destroy the tow rope. Use a D-shackle or hook. Keep all spectators well clear, drape something over the rope. When did you last check all the bolts on your bar?

CLUB CHARITY WORK

Our Club has had a good year and we hope that you can come up with some suitable tasks for 2012. We cleared an overgrown track for National Parks at Mana. We took truck loads of goodies out to Bally Vaughan Game Park, we raised money and a van full of food stuffs for S.O.A.P. (Save Our Old Age Pensioners) to help their Xmas charity effort and we collected $400 for the Anti Poaching Teams in the Charara Basin. Not a bad effort by far too few members. Come on guys, let's have a bigger attendance next year and please tell us of your favorite project that the Club could help to assist.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscriptions for 2012 will be $40 for subs; and $20 joining fee for new members. See renewal notice at the end of this newsletter. Please pay your subs promptly.

If you are going to enter any competitions then I suggest you get your ZMSF Competition Licence at the beginning of the year. Cost for the year is $35. This will save you paying $20 to ZMSF for every competition and your Medical Insurance is greatly increased as well. And it will save you filling in masses of forms at registration each time. Just do it! I have the ZMSF Forms, and if you let me have them completed, I will arrange to get the Licenses for you. PAT GILL Membership Secretary Phone: 494028 0712.440.794

JOIN THE 4X4 CLUB

Those of you who are lucky enough to read the Oct 2011 issue of "Leisure Wheels" may have read a page on joining a 4x4 Club. Glyn Demmer lists several reasons why it is a good idea. If you did not see it, here is his list (modified by us. Ed).

1. The Camaraderie.

2. Share experiences.

3. Gain advice.

4. Improve skills and awareness.

5. In a community committed to responsible 4x4ing

6. Join organised trips and outings.

7. Travel with like-minded people.

8. Technical support in far off places.

9. First Aid and vehicle recovery training.

10. Social events and charity fund raising.

CHRISTMAS FUN RUN

THE RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE – HUNTING SHOOTING FISHING.

Thanks to Peter Benzon and Gareth and Ashleigh Geach for the time they spent on making such a good day. The quizz on the drive around the North Eastern suburbs were full of cryptic questions that made fools of many. A most interesting route that ended at the Benzons (again). The shooting of hanging tins and plastic bottles was very entertaining, 11 pellets each and the wind helped keep the tins out of line. A new test this time was sitting in a Series 1 with binos and looking for pictures of animals. Some were very skittish and hard to see! Fishing involved sitting in a canoe in the pool with a rod and magnet. On the bottom were a large number of washers, big and small, for you to 'catch' in 3 minutes. If you were too aged you could find a couple of kids to do the job for you, with much vocal support. Being over 70 we elected to fish from the 'bank'.

The prime object of all this fun was to get members together with donations of cash and goodies for the old people whom S.O.A.P. help. Due to a means test; departures to greener pastures and natural attrition they now support 350 people in place of the over 700 last year. We contributed a van load of biscuits, tinned food, toilet paper, juices, $120 in cash and even a large carton of Tea.

Inflation: Cutting money in half without damaging the paper.

MUTARE JAMBOREE. – Mass Kirk

One of my favourite events on the calendar, many will agree with me. Mutare Jamboree offers real obstacles, serious slopes, and a technical level that we fail to imitate on our Harare site, coupled with a relaxed atmosphere and a bit of a cowboy attitude of the locals makes this event exciting and unique.

Last year they had an organized trail drive rather than a jamboree and this was well attended and a great event too. This year however we were back to a jamboree format and at a brand new venue, Smallbridge Dam. This is a long way from Harare and with short notice we struggled a bit to get the numbers up. Jim Perry and I each sent a truck with 2 vehicles. Ray Walker drove his Wrangler and BJ came from Gweru with his special L/R, there were seven Mutare guys, a field of thirteen. A beautiful setting, camping by the lake, cheap booze and cheap food; the weather was overcast, warm and no rain, the ground was moist.

Our group got chucked in the deep end starting on what turned out to be the most tricky section of the event, in fact it knocked out Aubrey Bennett. We got through it though and after that it was downhill (ha ha). The rest of the field finished the whole event, some real challenging stuff, rocks, climbs and very tight stuff playing right into the hands of Courna Korna, (For once both our Cournils ran trouble free). The old Cournil (I ought to give it a more illustrious name like Iron Giant) was driven by my Danish relative Morten with Lisbeth as coach. They did a great job considering he has never driven a 4x4 in anything of this sort.

There were a couple of new tests; one was the TOP BEER competition in the bar, one of the courses. A down-down type comp where we could not compete with the barman. Secondly there was the timed 'Hill Climb' instead of a mud run. I respect Ray Walker for setting a gruelling pace at both events.

Results

Special class - Kirk/Benzon - Cournil

Standard modified - Jim Perry - L/R

Standard - Gareth Barry - L/R

The Hill climb - Costa D – Jeep V8, second Ray Walker - Jeep

Smallbridge Dam was really ideal. No hassles with local drinkers at the Motor Club. No need to drive comp vehicles through town. The showers, catering and camping were excellent, it is also a beautiful place to which to get away to. This led us to think that a 'Bush Pig' event could easily be run here. We discussed it and they liked the idea. So it is a future option to either run our Bush Pig or a Mutare Bush Pig there. It is a long way to travel but I would like members to think about it and give me some feedback.

Cheers, Mass Kirk

FORTHCOMING EVENTS:

4x4 Club Diary - 2012

These dates change as the year progresses, but flyers will be sent out before each event.

January 29 Ngomo Kurira Run DAY

February 26 Training Donnybrook Donnybrook

March 11 AGM- Donnybrook Donnybrook

March 31 Night Extreme

Jamboree Launch Donnybrook

April 6-9 Easter

May 12-13 Course Building Donnybrook

May 25-27 HARARE JAMBOREE Donnybrook

June 24 Conservation Project AWAY

July 15 Club Day Event DAY

August 13-14 Expedition Gonarazhou Blue Cross, Eastern Highlands

September 15-16 Bush Pig Beatrice

October 27 Three Hills (full moon) Makumbi

November 10 Corporate Day Donnybrook

November 18-20 (TBC) Mutare Dungbeetle Mutare

December 9 Christmas Run Local

Committee: A body that keeps minutes and wastes hours.

DONNYBROOK

To enter Donnybrook on a non-event day it will cost you $1 per car, providing you have you membership card. Non-members will be charged $10 per car. You must sign the book at the gate and put your name, your Club and membership number. Do not pay without signing the book.

Please note: If you wish to go to Donnybrook to play and there is another event on, then the organizing club can charge what they like for you to enter as they will have hired the entire complex for that day. Please don’t try and argue with the gate attendant as they will just be doing their job. Either pay-up or go away and come back on a free day.

WEB SITE / FACE BOOK

Have you had a look at our Web Site? Grant Weare, Kelvin’s son has done a really good job of updating it. Go to: http://www.4x4.co.zw

We have a Face Book site and for those members, who are on Face Book, feel free to join the site: 4x4 Zimbabwe

Motor Sports Association Club House

MSA Membership: The Club House bar works on a Swipe Card basis and any member of an affiliated club can join. Pay your $20 Club House subscription and get your card. Bar prices are double for non-cardholders.

Hall for Hire - Hire our affordable Club facilities for parties, Wedding Receptions, meetings, seminars, courses and other functions. Assist us in this way to obtain funds for the Clubhouse.

Michael and Pat GILL

See subscription renewal notice below …………………………

Payment can be by direct deposit or paid in cash at the next event or phone me and we make an arrangement. We have a number of places around town who will gladly take your money. Pat

THE 4 x 4 CLUB

P.O. BOX HG 594 HIGHLANDS HARARE ZIMBABWE

2 Annan Road, Eastlea, Harare.

www.4x4.co.zw

Affiliated to the Zimbabwe Motor Sports Federation

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL - 2012

Name: ...........................................................................................................

Address: .............................................................................................

…………………………………………………………………………………

Telephone numbers : Home:.……........................ Work:: ……………...........................

Cell:...........................………........... E-mail :……………………..........................

In order to keep our records up-to-date, please complete in full.

Signed: ............................................... Date: ...……..................................

Annual subscription for 2012 is US$40

Our Bank Account Details, if you wish to do a direct deposit:

The 4x4 Club; NMB Borrowdale Branch;

Branch Code: 11106 Account No: 260066827

Please advise me as soon as you have paid, or we will not be able to reconcile the account and you will not get your Membership Card.

Pat Gill: Membership Secretary

Phone: 494028 Cell: 0712.440.794 Email: gill@zol.co.zw

Warning

2011-12-20T22:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Mike,

For what it's worth, here is another entry in the on-going litany of thefts occuring at night.

We collected friends from Harare airport last evening around 10:00 PM.

I noticed a funny noise emanating from a rear tyre as we turned at Coke Corner.

Near Railray Avenue a dark black vehicle came up next to us to tell us we had a flat (it was actually becoming flat at that point).

It was then, that my instinct kicked in and I sensed a bigger problem, and said that I am not stopping anywhere down town Harare (especially with ladies in tow), and so proceeded to a well lit medical institution in the Avenues to park, so that we could change the tyre with help of a local guard and friends in our vehicle.
A few minutes later, as we are in the process of changing over tyres, a vehicle comes along and parks next to us (we assumed it was coming to the medical institution, which is a normal response, as there were vehicles coming and going).
We were somewhat preoccupied with the tyre change, so did not focus for long on that vehicle.

Next thing we know, our doctor friend says, "they've reached in and stolen something". Sure enough, a man from the vehicle took our friend's wife's hand bag from off the floor of my dbl cab, which was hidden out of sight, and absconded with passport, money, camera, Kindle, etc.

After reflection, we all realized that it was the same dark vehicle, with three grown men inside, that we had seen downtown a few minutes earlier.

Our friend then gave chase on foot and caught up to the one miscreant, who proceeded to turn on our friend with a club and hit him on the hand. The assailant then jumped into the now awaiting car and it fled...the vehicle had no registration (of course).

From our recollection to the police, the vehicle appeared to be of European origin.

These people are brazen and are not shy to attempt to steal even with a number of us standing right there. They chose their moment carefully and hit fast.

Let me encourage your readers to be extra vigilant around this Christmas season if they are doing an airport run late at night, and be sure they're travelling with an escort who can wield a club in defence (such as a strong, young domestic) if they are doing a late collection at the airport.

Advent blessings of joy and peace.

Sincerely,

Chris Goppert
Harare

Meetings

2011-12-20T03:59:00.000-08:00

Dear Reader,

This afternoon myself and two good friends had a very constructive meeting, at my request, with a Senior Superintendent at Police Headquarters regarding the Drink Driving Comments that I have been sending out over the past week. We were all pleasantly surprised by a very favourable response and ideas that came from the interaction. It was great to find out that they are making a concerted effort to improve their PR with the general public and to share suggestions on the way forward as far as Traffic and Drinking is concerned

The selection of these emails that I sent to him have been forwarded to the relevant Deputy Commissioner and the Police officer commanding Borrowdale and Highlands - showing just how seriously they are taking the matter.

We spoke about the following subjects :

1. Drink Driving

2. Underage Drinking at Night clubs

3. The illegality of selling / giving alcohol to drunk patrons at any licenced establishment

4. Very drunk young ladies being taken advantage of by several drunk young men after the “Bender”

5. The use of Cell phones whilst Driving

6. Police Roadblocks and the, soon to be implemented addition of barbed barriers, to prevent drivers not stopping when ordered to

7. The escalation of Police Presence in and around shopping centres, night clubs and popular entertainment spots

8. Dagga usage and hard core drugs being sold to the rich kids on the block

9. Citizens arrests for people that are obviously way over the drink drive limit

We were told that the officer concerned would be compiling an email for me to send out to readers this weekend giving details of measures the Police are about to implement to improve on all of these matters

They are aware of the major party supposedly happening at Sam Levy’s Village tonight and there will be an increased Police Presence watching out for the things listed above. There are also undercover Police out there ! So make sure your underage kids are not out drinking at night clubs tonight –– make sure that your child is not the first one to be made an example of

More importantly - make sure there is a designated driver for those that are planning to “hit it hard” tonight – we do not want them to be included in the first fatality of this festive season!!

If you feel that I am a party pooper as one reader said this morning, please feel free to unsubscribe from this list! Her email included the following comment about one of these drinking places:

“This is the festive season and all XXXX wants to do is give youngsters a good time - it's up to the people to act responsibly - XXXX are not their nannies. “

I hope you have a very pleasant weekend – Mike G

A sign of the times

2011-12-20T03:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Reader

I walked over to Sam Levy’s Village just after midnight last night to check out the 10 hour party that was happening there in the new car park behind the new Borrowdale Spar. They would not let me in to the gig! I did not have the correct (Fake) ID Card that the under age kids are all organising at Photo World all made legal with the Authentic “Justice of the Peace” Stamp that is doing the rounds!
Young girls and guys all wandering around carrying those ICE Vodka bottles or plastic Coke Bottles with anything but Coke in them - all ages – totally illegal by the way to walk in a public place drinking alcohol – whether you are over 18 or not. Noted a group of 3 guys light up an (obvious) joint going into the place. If I can see that happen within 1 min of being there why can’t the plain clothes Police? The kids were still streaming in and a few were already inebriated at 12.30am. What were they going to be like at the end of the night?

We need to change the whole culture of our youth in Zimbabwe. Many of these youngsters seem to think that they must drink more shooters than their mates and be more drunk than them. So that they can go back home sometime the next day and boast on Facebook about how “Wasted” they were the night before and they actually brag about how they can’t remember anything!

I feel we need a few motivational speakers to address the girls at Chisi and Arundel about the reality of binge drinking and what the young guys really plan to do with these girls early the next morning! – talk to the boys at St Georges and St Johns (etc, etc) about growing up to be responsible individuals – not sheep – any takers? – I suggest one or two Police Representatives be taken along to the school assemblies for this (Shock Treatment) purpose – and preferably on a Friday just before they ask mom and dad to go that special “Wow” night club!
Regards – Mike G

.........To everyone who is proactively doing something to stop this craziness re: drinking and driving. Even more alarming is the age of the girls at the night clubs; some as young as 13 years old!!

Which parents are standing by and allowing this to happen? What happens to those girls when they wake up the next morning and remember what they did whilst under the influence? How many "D&C's" are being performed on teenagers who are pregnant? What shred of self-respect do these girls really have when they can't remember what they did, with whom and when? We are allowing a generation of alcoholics to attend regular training sessions in our night clubs, our homes, our communities and should they forget how to ensure they get themselves into the lifestyle, many need look no further than mum or dad .. or both setting a fine example.

No apologies for being a party pooper ... if my email can prevent one more coffin from travelling to a premature resting place then mission accomplished.

The Western Cape Local Government is running a TV campaign called 'Safely Home' using footage from CCTV cameras mounted on highways in SA. The ads are also on YouTube and are 'not for sensitive viewers or children' and can be seen here http://safelyhome.westerncape.gov.za/galleries/video-gallery
I had noticed the increased presence of police checks when returning from Reps to Kambanji after 9pm. It's reassuring to know they're policing - as is their duty.

The drinking and driving has become way out of control and it's marvellous the community as a whole is making the effort to engage all in the need to curb this dangerous activity.

As to XXXX and her comments: what could be more party pooping than dead/maimed patrons unable to fill her coffers. I'm betting she will not accept with equanimity the results of some drunk crashing into her and maiming her for life. She needs a reminder of her responsibility to the community that fulfils her needs.

It takes a village to raise a child. As a community we have a responsibility to each other, not just the 'child'.
the mere fact that xxxx and whoever else offers kids entrance of $10 for girls and $20 for boys and drink as much as you like, is not acting responsibly on xxxx part! don’t you think? this is just saying drink as much as you like, we don’t care, just pay the entrance. AAARGH!!!

well done for taking initiative!. Now also go for those owners of the establishments they need to be…… named and shamed

If ever you are in comms with the traffic police again PLEASE would you mention the danger of the Harare Mutare road. I don't think I have ever travelled that road without witnessing a dreadful accident. Last week there were FOUR major crashes when we went to Harare and THREE when a friend went a few days later. It is a nightmare.

The minibuses and the big black powerful cars (or similar type) overtake in the face of oncoming traffic or on blind rises/corners and just presume you will find a way to avoid hitting them.

I think the police should have roving vehicles between the towns/cities so there is a presence. If you swerve off the road to avoid having a head on, you have the chance of killing or maiming an innocent bystander/pedestrian. The whole road has become a death trap.

Your reader (whose comments are quoted below) says pub owners are not their nannies may be correct – but the parents are being totally irresponsible and should also be held accountable. The owners of the venues can’t keep track on who is drinking what – but they can do something about it and I have a suggestion. What about an additional tax on anyone with a license to sell booze to cover the cost of additional police people whose sole job it is to stand outside the venues and as the kids come out to leave – follow them to the car and do a breathalyzer if it is deemed necessary and arrest these kids the minute they get into the car and put the key into the ignition. The kids can argue their innocence in court at a later stage. Also institute a HUGE fine like thousands of dollars – an amount that could really hurt the parents and perhaps impound vehicles. The kids however still need to get home coz there is not enough space in the prisons! So maybe cover charges should also include a bus service to do a once round at the end of the evening and take the drunk kids home and drop off the policemen at the end of the shift.

I also know that some of these kids are out of control and there are parents who are unable to discipline them. Be that as it may – if they get drunk and wipe themselves out it is of course sad but so much more sad is the sober responsible person who gets wiped out because they happen to be in the line of fire of the irresponsible drunk!

Warning

2011-12-20T03:46:00.000-08:00

Please bring to the attention of friends and others who intend driving into or passing through Ziumbabwe over the festive period, the following details required for the vehicles.

Just because they are driving a foreign registered vehicle does not exclude them from Zimbabwean Regulations.

All vehicles must have white and red reflectors fitted front and rear.

1 x fire extinguisher, 2 x red triangles for each vehicle. If the vehicle is pulling a trailer a set of triangles for that.

A reflective vest.

The police are using any part of the regulations to fine drivers. It may seem petty but they are tasked with road safety and they are out in full strength on all main roads and aare imposing fines for very minimal offences

Indigenous Trees:

2011-12-18T22:40:00.001-08:00

Why not give some indigenous trees as presents this Christmas? These make unusual gifts and you can enjoy them for years to come. The COSMO Trust Indigenous Tree Nursery has an extensive collection of some 50 species at the end of Fenella Drive, Monavale, (near B.S. Leon Retirement Village) and we provide a data sheet for each species on how to plant, grow and look after your tree as well as its uses and attributes. We are open daily from 8 a.m. to midday and 2 to 4 p.m. For further information contact 0772 772771/0779 260834/0712 636458. benover@zim.co.zw

Warning to vistors to Zimbabwe by Road

2011-12-14T23:29:00.000-08:00

SI 154 Safety Equipment: Friends or family driving into the country?

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

RADIO RHODESIA

2011-12-14T02:36:00.000-08:00

"6:30 Get up up up up up..." This was the wake up call of a rotund fun loving clown by the name of Leslie Sullivan who was the morning man on Radio Rhodesia. Leslie, I am told was quite a night owl and would show up about 45 minutes before Radio Rhodesia went on the air and had a "Power Sleep" waking just in time to get the morning radio show kicked off.
At about 5 minutes to 6 in the morning, the day began on the air for Radio Rhodesia. It started with "A thought for the day", an inspirational message to help face the day. At 6AM the morning call would go out announcing what meter band and wave length the RBC could be picked up on.

When I think of this, somehow the aroma of toast and Jungle Oats come to mind. Between 6AM and 6:30 a short recap of the news and weather forecast for the day were given, some music played and then, 'voila! it was time for Leslie to perform his magic and get the children out of bed with his "Get up up up" routine. He usually followed with a kiddie song like "Teddy Bears' picnic or "Pink Toothbrush" but the greatest was when, once a year, he would play a short piece each morning from a story about a fat Chinese boy who fell down a well but because of his long name lost potential rescuers when he would call out for help. His name that being Nicky Nicky Tembo Oh So Rembo, Ooh Ma Muchi Gamma Gamma Guchi !!

Leslie was always so much fun to wake up to in the morning, it almost took the sting out of having to get ready to go to work or school.

His audience comprised of both parents and children. Later in the morning it was time for another sorcerer to perform his Radio magic, in the form of a kindly chap by the name of Don Burdette. Don had a hospital request show with "Silver Lining" as his theme music. Don showed tremendous empathy for the ailing whether it was a "new mum" at the Lady Chancellor hospital or Lady Rodwell Hospital, or a malaria case in Salisbury Central hospital, maybe Umtali General, The Mater Dei in Bulawayo or Greenwood Park hospital or even someone recuperating at home. Don always saved a special segment for his "Little Horrors", the sick children who were in hospital. Usually he would play Alvin and the Chipmunks. It always perked a person up listening to his kindly voice admonishing you to cheer up and get better soon.

Around noon, shortly after the "Daily Service", a wonderful woman by the name of Beryl Salt would exhort children to "Bring a cushion or a chair right up to the radio", at which time she would read a story with the most amazing professionalism, never mispronouncing a word, stuttering or losing a beat. I will never forget her for she made my childhood so much more enjoyable with her lovely voice.

Around 2PM there was usually a short news update, following which a "Serial" came on. It was usually a radio theatre presentation of a book and so very well done. These programs brought something to look forward to and were seldom missed.

Radio really had an impact on our lives as Television did not come on until 6PM and that was only in the larger cities, until later years as technology became better. It was the great spirit in a small box that penetrated our soul and mind and left that indelible image there. It forced your imagination to take you to places your eye could not see, truly wonderful! Monday nights there was a great show entitled "The Missing Persons Bureau" about an agency that traced folks who had disappeared. Henry Simon, was the director of the bureau.

During the rest of the week several radio drama shows were done usually by some great entertainers like Ken Marshall and his beautiful wife Claire. These folk along with other celebrities not only did wonderful radio dramas but often performed in plays at the well known Reps theatre in Salisbury.

There were many fine voices on the air - one was Gerry Wilmot who left Radio Rhodesia to work for Lourenco Marques radio, I think that was about 1961 or 1962.

My favorite day was Saturday for all the great hit music generally got played. Ian Warren had a show at 9AM playing new songs that were potential hits. Everyone's favorite was none other than Lyons Maid hits of the week. The show was done by Martin Locke and Trig Tregaskis who not only had a great radio voice but held quite an appeal to the young ladies. Much to the annoyance of his wife.

Each week there was a jackpot, and if the top ten hits of the week were predicted correctly the winner would win the amount, or if he or she got the top three correct free ice cream was in the works! How we lived for this show! Martin left the Rhodesian airwaves for a while and Keith Kennedy took over the show. Both gentlemen were excellent at their craft and the show was tremendously successful. Trig took over as DJ on Radio Jacaranda where he remained until he left for South Africa in 1978.

Another great at Radio Rhodesia was a guy that I thought never got enough credit for his excellence and that was Malcolm Russell.

Malcolm had a show called "New Tracks" and it was the last biggie for we young folk on a Saturday morning. The show's theme song was "I Will Follow Him" and was just super. Saturday afternoon at 2PM, a radio game show, "The Eyegene Jackpot", was presented and it was quite enjoyable.

A game show program presented by Mervin Hamilton and Vic Matheson that featured housewives pushing a shopping cart around Meikles gathering groceries without duplicating items in an allotted time, brought excitement to the listeners. It was always quite a rush to listen to.

My favorite was "Forces Requests" with Sally Donaldson on

Saturday afternoons. Sally was a beautiful young woman with a voice to match. She played all the forces favorites and with the escalating terrorist bush war she became very popular as young men went off to defend their country. Dusk was usually falling as we would listen with the lights turned out in our living room. It was so peaceful thanks to our security forces. Sadly Sally passed away a few years ago but her wonderful personality, charm and looks will never be forgotten.

There were several distinguished voices like that of John Bishop and Peter Tobin that graced our airwaves.

As the years passed small stations were set up in the provinces that covered local issues for about 2 or 3 hours on Friday nights. I have a smile on my face thinking of all the fond memories of a wonderful Radio station. My times for the programming may be slightly off bearing in mind all of this happened so long ago and in a land far away!

Thanks to all of these dear people, some still with us, others not but everyone is fondly remembered and never forgotten.
"Why be difficult when with just a little effort you can be bloody impossible"

Thank you to the Unknown Source

Family Notices

2011-12-14T02:34:00.003-08:00

BIRTHS

Vic and Jo are over the moon to announce the birth of their first grandchild a beautiful bouncy 9lb12oz boy Eli Ireland to Sean and Shelley in the Uk, congratulations to the two of you we just wish we were closer to share your bundle of happiness !!!

++++++++

5) CONDOLENCES

PLEASE MAKE DONATIONS FOR CONDOLENCE MESSAGES PLEASE TO EDITH DULY NURSING HOME edithduly@netconnect co zw

Pam Spencer (nee Ellman-Brown) 96 years- wife of the late Morten Spencer, mother to Pauline Fairlie and the late John Spencer - passed away peacefully in Howick on 11th Nov Rest in peace Auntie Pam love Rich, Jayne and the girls

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SHEILA STEWART

Our Mum passed away yesterday, Friday 9th December at 9 45am She was a young 77

All of her four children Mark, Amanda, Paul & Penny, were around her bed She started to take long pauses between her breaths and then we noticed she hadn't taken a breath for a while, so it was very peaceful

She was widow of the late, Donald, beloved Mum to Mark, Amanda, Paul, Penny and 'Gig' to Amy, Matt, Tim, James, Jonathan, Ben, Joseph and Ella

GARRY AND PENNY BELL

Penny Bell pinkpenguin@smartchat net au

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DEATH NOTICE

ANNA WOOTTEN

Beloved mother of Fergus and Gillian Forbes passed away peacefully on

the 7th of December 2011

All friends are invited to a memorial service at 66 Duncan Road Suburbs at

10 am Monday 12 December 2011 Tea to follow

Contact 09 - 243255

+++++++

ANNA WOOTTON , (84) friend of many years, died peacefully after a long battle against cancer on Wednesday, 7th December at her home Anna, you were always cheerful- we will mi you and our joyful hours together Rest in peace! Our heartfelt condolences go to Fergus and Gill

Ulrike and Klaus Leuschner

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"Anna Wootten,

A dear friend and neighbour, a lady of great kindne , and a great character Will be greatly mi ed and always remembered with great affection Deepest sympathies to Gus, Gill and family

David, Lucy, Caitlin, Amelia and Tabitha Findlay (Stamford, UK)"

++++++++

Death Notice

Anna Wootten,

Beloved mother of Fergus and Gillian Forbes, passed away peacefully at home on 7 12 2011

Friends are invited to the memorial Service to be held on Monday 12th December at 10 00am at 66 Duncan Road, Suburbs

No flowers by request, donations instead to Bulawayo, SPCA

Phone 243255

+++++++++

ANNA WOOTTON , (84) friend of many years, died peacefully after a long battle against cancer on Wednesday, 7th December at her home Anna, you were always cheerful- we will mi you and our joyful hours together Rest in peace! Our heartfelt condolences go to Fergus and Gill

Ulrike and Klaus Leuschner

+++++++

JENNY BRANKIN

Please can I send my condolences to the Brankin family on their sad

loss of Jenny wife and mother she will be sadly mi ed so sorry about

your loss she passed away at 1 00am on the 30th November2011 Love

Kathy,Dan&Tania

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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

Joseph Marffy

2011-12-14T02:29:00.001-08:00

It is with deep sorrow that we have to announce the sudden death of Joseph Marffy on the 29th November 2011 who died of a massive heart attack in his home in England. He is the third son of Laci and Pelline Marffy of the Mvurwi district and will be sorely missed by his family and friends. His funeral will take place on Friday 9th December in England.

Contact: lonegumfarm@iwayafrica.com

Reps Reporter November 2011

2011-11-19T00:49:00.000-08:00

Greetings to all members as the month of November draws tp a close and we begin this year’s festive season. As always, Reps is in on the act and the big focus for 2011 is Robinson Crusoe, the Reps panto. There are also plans for carol singing and New Year’s celebrations, so read on for more on these.

Debentures update

Members are being encouraged to take up debentures in the scheme unveiled and launched last month. They cost only $25 and you can buy one, or as many as you like – 2 or 200. The debentures are loans to Reps to enable us to undertake essential current and developmental expenditure. Response is picking up but we encourage an early take-up so that things can be achieved right away. If you would like to know more, please call the Reps office. If you would like to take up a debenture, either call or e-mail the office, or drop in any morning.. Why not encourage your family, friends and colleagues, to buy at least one Debenture - especially those who are interested in Reps maintaining its place as chief performing arts venue in Harare. If you need a flier to hand out to them, ask the office for a copy of the short information sheet that is available.

Robinson Crusoe takes us into Christmas

It’s panto time and Graham Crutchley this year presents Robinson Crusoe – no it’s not just Robinson and Fiday!!. A big cast has been singing, dancing and acting up a storm in their rehearsals, to present the best Panto in years! Spar Zimbabwe has come on board to sponsor it and we thank them sincerely. Crystal Candy has, as always, given sweets for the children coming to watch the show. There are two Gala nights during the run – one for the B S Leon Home on Friday December 9, and another for the Harare City Library on Saturday December 17. There is also a special night on Friday December 16 - when carols will be sung in the theatre for half an hour before curtain up. The show runs from December 1 to 23 – Come and see your old favourites - Marc Thomas, Sue Bolt, Stephane Thomas and Martin Bolt, plus lots of newcomers. The acting, singing and dancing talent is fantastic, with Meg Mackenzie as musical director and Caroline Yule as choreographer.
Bounce into 2012 with Boeing Boeing

Coming back under the guidance of Zane E Lucas is the hit farce Boeing Boeing, the New Year’s show. This is written by Marc Camoletti and Beverley Cross and is a hugely funny romp about pilots and air hostesses. Starring are Paul Shephard, Ryan Lawrence, Jamie McLaren, Kyla Render, Chido Maunze and Mike Blackburn. The opening night – a special Gala Night - will be New Year’s Eve. Details of the Gala will be advertised soon. Make a night of it – show first and fun in the Reps bar afterwards, or come along to see the show and head off afterwards to your planned parties. Boeing Boeing runs from December 31 to January 14.
Preps and Repteens head for year-end

Both Preps and Repteens are heading towards their final sessions of 2011, and both are planning end-of-year performances to show what they have learned and what talent they have in their ranks. Katie Cooper has done a sterling job running Preps while Kyla Render has excelled in steering Repteens this year. If you know of youngsters who want to – or should – join up, then send them along in the new school term in 2012 … Repteens meet from 6pm on Fridays during school terms while Preps meet on Saturday mornings, also during school terms.

Social events make for added value and great entertainment

We have been very lucky to have superb entertainers at social events in the Reps bar this year, and there’s plenty more coming up, thanks to Tim Garrard and Jenni Ferguson. November 17 sees a wine tasting with wines from Latilla. There’s a Weakest Link evening in the bar on Sunday November 20, while Rob Osborne will sing in the bar on November 27. Frank Douie and Kevin Hanssen are performing on certain nights in December and there will be a fun pub quiz on Sunday December 11. It’s carols in the bar on December 22 and there will be a great New Year’s Eve bash in the bar, too. Keep watching for specific mails and posters on these events.

Report back on the Strategic Plan

As promised when the Strategic Plan was launched in May, there is to be a report-back session on progress that has been achieved. This will be at 11am on Sunday December 4 in the theatre, followed by a social in the bar. The purpose is to update members on where Exco is taking the Society, what successes have been achieved and what obstacles have been encountered. Come along to hear, ask, comment and add value for your own Society.

Membership subs due soon

A reminder about 2012 renewals will be going out soon, but please can you get your subscriptions in as soon as possible. The absolute deadline is, as always, Saturday, January 14. We hope everyone who is a member will renew for the coming year and that each and every member will sign up at least one new member for 2012.. A growing membership means a healthy Society!

Did you know …

… that the Avondale Scouts run the foyer confectionery and cold drinks bar, which we call the coffee bar (coffee and tea often sold, usually in the colder months). When Dance Trust of Zimbabwe events are on, the bar is then run by mums and volunteers from the dance community. This is one way we help others fundraise and it keeps our foyer stocked with the sort of things needed by patrons. It is also important to remind everyone that it is absolutely forbidden for patrons to bring their own drinks and food onto the premises and that cooked food from the nearby food court may not be brought into the theatre. Our foyer bar is available for non-members to buy alcoholic beverages, while members can, of course, use their own bar before and after performances and during interval. Don’t forget to order drinks for interval before you go in for the show – this speeds up service. It It is NOT permitted to take glasses or bottles into the auditorium – only plastic cups, cans and plastic bottles. This is mainly for safety reasons, and to stop wastage through broken glass.
Until next time, stay well and get on down to Reps

Exco

Carol Love

2011-11-19T00:46:00.001-08:00

CAROL LOVE

The funeral service for the late Carol Love

will be held at 9am on Saturday morning

19th November at Whitestone Chapel.

Tea will be served after the service.

HENRY ORNER

2011-11-19T00:38:00.000-08:00

Just to let friends of Henry know that there will be a memorial celebration of his life at the Tin Roof in Chisipite (Harare) on Thursday 24th November at 2pm, followed by drinks at the same venue.
I don't think my dad even owned a suit so please.... no jacket and tie necessary!

Contact: orner@hotmail.co.uk

ANTI-HIJACK UPDATE FOR OCTOBER 2011

2011-11-15T02:28:00.000-08:00

Reports are coming in on almost a daily basis on the crime in and around Harare …. from petty theft to armed robberies. There is definitely an increase and we ask you to please be very aware of your environment and what’s going on around you. If you see any suspicious gathering or unusual happening in your area, report them to either your Neighbourhood Watch or the nearest Police Station - this helps in the prevention of crime … before it happens! Gangs are moving in daylight hours and some very blatant in their approach and attitude …… be AWAKE, AWARE, VIGILANT & ALERT at all times. Keep the security at a high level ongoing throughout the 24 hours of every day/night. Make sure your staff are aware of the rules on a regular basis and check if they are being adhered to. Do not allow anyone onto your property without checking; communicate with your staff as to when you are expecting to have workmen and repairs done as to alleviate allowing ‘unauthorized’ visitors gaining access to your property.

Caution when approaching traffic lights ….. do not have windows wide open, leave a small gap at the top to prevent shattering of glass and have ALL doors locked to hinder any attempted hijackings or smash and grabs. Keep children advised on being alert, especially driving to and from school fixtures and functions. We have a lot of loiterers in and around all suburbs due to the lack of employment so chance and survival are on most minds.

If you are unfortunate to be a victim, please DO NOT FIGHT BACK OR RESIST, you will only be hurt. Material goods can be replaced, but LIFE is far more precious. Be warned that most gangs are armed and are not afraid to use them. Try not to make eye contact and do what they say - to be a hero may cost you your life.
Let’s ALL fight this crime together - stay ALERT and SAFE !

ANTIHIJACK TRUST: Email: hijack@mweb.co.zw or hijack@zol.co.zw

Driving Warning –Drew Rd / Harare Drive

2011-11-15T02:14:00.002-08:00

Driving Warning –Drew Rd / Harare Drive - I was told by a middle aged lady, yesterday, that, on Friday night last week, at about midnight her husband had been driving home after a couple of drinks at The Tin Roof in Lewisam. He drove along Drew Road and , just before he turned left into Harare Drive, he slowed down for the hump in the road. His windows were open at the time. A youngish guy suddenly appeared from nowhere, stuck his head through the driver’s window and spat in the drivers Face! The latter was, understandably, not amused and opened his door in a rage – in the meanwhile another chap opened the passenger door and tried to climb into the car. A big fight then ensued with yet another guy joining in. Luckily the driver was quite a bug guy and successfully fought them off with nothing notable stolen from the car

Chatwood - Mary

2011-11-15T02:14:00.000-08:00

Chatwood - Mary.Passed away peacefully in Australia on 23rd October 2011, aged 96 years. Remembered with love and pride by her grandchildren, great - grandchildren, and Bridget de Caila.

Comment from MD of company in Msasa

2011-11-15T02:05:00.001-08:00

“This May Be worth circulating especially for people who sell goods and the customer collects at a later date

“Last week we invoiced out a computer printed invoice for 1 Box of goods. But when they returned later the next day to collect , the same computer printed invoice now read 10 boxes ! !

Fortunately our security picked it up. We double checked our sales invoices for the previous few weeks and found that they had been " successful " the previous week ....... So ..... be warned

SADC driving licences

2011-11-15T02:04:00.001-08:00

“Having been warned that the Moz Transit police were going to be demanding SADC driving licences from Zim licence holders, I found out that Zim was not now, nor in the near future, intending to produce SADC licences. This message has been relayed by the Zim Minister of Transport to his counter parts in all SADC members. You could, if you were desperate, take your Zim licence to the Moz embassy, and have it authenticated, but I dont think really necessary.”

MILESON - MAISIE

2011-11-15T02:01:00.000-08:00

MILESON - MAISIE. Passed away peacefully in her sleep in Johannesburg Friday morning at the age of 93. She will be sorely missed by her children Clay & Lynette, Lyn & Nick and their respective families. Contact through her granddaughter Mandie - zimmiehippie@yahoo.co.uk

Angela Dilmitis

2011-11-15T01:58:00.000-08:00

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the passing of Angela Dilmitis. The funeral will be held at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 224 Leopold Takawira, Harare on Wednesday 16th November, 2011 at 11am. The family will accept condolences at the Sparta Hall (next to the Cathedral) immediately after the service. The family have requested that all donations, in lieu of flowers, go to the Hellenic Schools. There will be a private burial in Chinhoyi at a later date. Our most sincere condolences are extended to her husband Peter, her sons John & Manousso, her daughters Cleo & Maria, and all of the family for their loss. cleo@chattels.co.zw

MR WILLOUGHBY SPRAGUE

2011-11-08T01:12:00.001-08:00

THE PRESIDENT, CAPTAIN AND STAFF OF ROYAL HARARE GOLF CLUB REGRET TO ANNOUNCE THE DEATH OF MR WILLOUGHBY SPRAGUE WILLOUGHBY HAD BEEN A MEMBER OF THE CLUB FOR 35 YEARS. THE FUNERAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD AT ARUNDEL SCHOOL AT 3PM ON FRIDAY 11^TH NOVEMBER 2011 OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO PAT AND THE FAMILY.

Family notices

2011-11-08T00:21:00.000-08:00

It is with great sadness that the family of Ben Norton advise that Ben passed away, peacefully, on Thursday 27th October 2011. in Howick, R.S.A.

He will be lovingly remembered by Jenny, Larry and Sara , Meg, Ben and Madeleine and Dustin.

The funeral will take place at St. Lukes Anglican Church , Howick, on Monday 31st October at 10 a.m.
Contact: Norton@lantic.net
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Milly Carlisle
Milly Carlisle, mother of Jenny Campbell and Kathy Hull died peacefully in her sleep on 18th October.

There is to be no memorial service or funeral service as requested by her.

Kathy's email address is hullo@zol.co.zw

PEREPECZKO ANNA

2011-11-08T00:18:00.000-08:00

PEREPECZKO ANNA, Wife of the Late Adam Perepeczko and Beloved Mum, Granny and Great Granny of Al, Babs, Alex, Micki, Leanne, Robert, Sarah, Sophie-Grace, Justine, Jono, Louise, Graig and Cheryl. Passed away peacefully at home on the 1st November 2011. We will hold you in our Hearts Forever. Funeral Service to be held at Nazareth House Chapel on Monday 7th November 2011 at 2:30 pm, Followed by tea at the Larmenier community club, Friends please accept this intimation, Family contact : Babs Graham 0779303815

Gerry Allan

2011-11-03T02:53:00.001-07:00

The Memorial Service for the late Gerry Allan , ex CAA and Air Zimbabwe, will be held on Friday 4^th Novemeber2011, at the Athol Evans Chapel, 10.00. Jenny Matthews, Val Caldecott, Diane Caddick and Keith Allan invite all friends to attend this celebration of his life. calde@zol.co.zw

Jenny Townsend

2011-11-03T02:52:00.001-07:00

It comes with great sadness, the passing of Jenny Townsend in Harare on Sunday 30th October 2011. A memorial service will be held at the BS Leon in Harare on Monday 7^th November 2011. Teas will be served after the service at BS Leon. kirsty@matmark.co.zw

Lilian Cottirll

2011-11-03T02:48:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I have some sad news, Lilian has passed away. She was found this morning, Nov 2nd, in her bed by the cleaner. At present we do not know any more details, but it would appear that she has passed away peacefully in her sleep.

I was actually going to e mail people tomorrow, when I was hoping to be able to give you more details, but unfortunately, this news seems to be circulating on Facebook already, though the source has not come from either my sister or myself. At present we do not know when the funeral might be etc, or the actual cause of death, though I would suspect a heart attack.

I saw Lilian a couple of months ago and my Father saw her last Saturday, when she appeared to be ok, though of course had several long standing health problems.

It is a sad day, and she was an amazing person, in that she was so stoical and never complained, despite all that she and John had been through. I know that she had many friends spread across the world now, and spent many happy hours keeping in touch. Her computer was a life saver in many ways, and she took to the technology brilliantly for a person in her eighties.

Will let you know more when I find out.
Regards
Margaret Sherman (niece)
PS, If anyone knows of any person who Lilian knew that is not on the list, maybe they could pass on the news, thank you.
Margaret Sherman [margaret.sherman@ntlworld.com]

2011-10-31T23:37:00.000-07:00

Please see attached and below photographs and copy for circulation to everyone in your address books, newspapers, dancing communities etc etc. The sooner we get this message out to as many people as possible, the quicker we can get the centre rebuilt. Funds are URGENTLY required from well wishers and lovers of dance to resurrect The National Ballet Centre. As much newspaper/magazine coverage as possible would be much appreciated, so please call in as many favours as possible from anyone and everyone you can:-

“The National Ballet Centre was destroyed yesterday morning after the roof caved in leaving the building unsafe and unusable. The Dance Trust of Zimbabwe announced that the collapse of the centre, which was built 35 years ago and has housed and trained the national dancing community for decades, is a national disaster and throws doubt over the future of dance in Zimbabwe. All dancers, teachers, parents and friends of dance were devastated by the news as it leaked out yesterday.

The National Ballet centre, situated on East Road, Harare (behind Reps Theatre) has staged many shows over the years including its annual dance festival Starlight Dancing. It is also registered as a Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examination centre and its facilities are used daily by many of Zimbabwe’s top dance studios and dancers including the Tumbuka Contemporary Dance Company, The Dance Foundation Course, The Outreach Project and the National Ballet dancers themselves.

When the Ballet Centre initially opened, it focused on classical ballet. Later it was then realised that it was essential to take dance to the community as a whole, especially to the high-density suburbs. "Vana vano tamba" (children who dance) was soon launched in 1984 - a project initially confined to children under twelve in Harare's high density areas who would otherwise have had no exposure to dance other than traditional. The teachers went to various schools and a class was given on a Saturday morning to teenagers, who formed the City Youth Group. A few dancers, who showed potential, were awarded scholarships to learn ballet at a more advanced level from classical teachers.

This initiative soon led to the first workshop. So successful was this course that the training was extended and culminated in a formal three year Dance Training Programme specifically aimed at talented young schools leavers from economically constrained backgrounds. The course was free of charge and all students were provided with daily transport and lunch money. The first course was completed in 1992. The graduates were then employed either by the newly formed Tumbuka Dance Company, or the community based Outreach Team. This was an innovative and exciting move because of its employment creation policy and the possibilities for future expansion.

Since then, four further three year long Dance Foundation Courses have been successfully run, which has highlighted the interdependency of all three projects. The fifth Dance Foundation Course started in July 2008 and is currently running.

The Outreach Team has identified talented youngsters in the community, who were invited to audition for the Dance Foundation Course. Talented course graduates have been taken into Tumbuka as professional dancers. Tumbuka Company members are an integral part of the training course as they are involved in teaching the students on a regular basis, are disciplined role models, and inspirational leaders.

In 1999 two of the students on the Dance Foundation Course were offered a one-year scholarship with the Oslo National College of Ballet and Dance. The scholarships were extended by a further two years. Both of these dancers gained employment in the field of Dance in Europe. Since then six more students have benefited from these scholarships.

The Outreach Programme, that was initiated as "Vano Vano Tambo", developed into a formal programme with an Administrator and a Co-ordinator. Currently there are four teachers, one of which doubles as the Co-ordinator, who teach 4500 children. The classes are given free of charge. Outreach Dance Festivals are attempted every year to afford the children an opportunity to dance in public and one is currently in rehearsal and due to be staged on 26th November 2011 at The Dutch Reformed Church, Samora Machel Avenue, Harare at 10am. A morning not to be missed!

Chairman of the Dance Trust of Zimbabwe Tereza Carter, said that “Rebuilding The National Ballet Centre, is critical to ensure that all the gains over the past 35 years are not jeopardised. Dance in Zimbabwe must continue and it’s important that The National Ballet Centre remains at the hub of that national project.”

Well wishers, friends of dance and the corporate world are requested to contact The Dance Trust of Zimbabwe on dtz@ecoweb.co.zw for more information”.

Best Regards…Joe

Congratulations to Amy (nee Henderson) and Grant Froneman

2011-10-31T23:22:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Amy (nee Henderson) and Grant Froneman on the birth of their beautiful little boy Dylan, born on October 21st in Cape Town.

Proud grandparents Anne and Donald are so happy to be grandparents at last. We thought long and hard about it but eventually decided that, despite the financial considerations and our advancing years, we should put aside our reservations and make this sacrifice for the sake of our children. Ultimately, it was not a difficult decision to make as we had the help of Amy and Grant from the beginning. Sandy and Chelle have prepared meticulously and will heap love and gifts from their royal home in Dubai.

Phew!

From Jenni Williams

2011-10-31T23:20:00.000-07:00

My name is Jenni Williams, national coordinator of Women of Zimbabwe Arise (WOZA). I am persecuted for being a human rights defender, just getting over my 39th arrest and recovering from my 3rd stint in a Zimbabwean jail as a unconvicted prisoner. Arrested on the 21st of September 2-11 World Peace Day, I spent 2 days in horrific conditions at Bulawayo Central Police and then 10 days at Mlondolozi female prison in Khami complex. This brings my tally to 73 days of my life spent in jails wearing the bright green dolly rocker tunic of a remand prisoner. Despite so many arrests, the state has been unable to criminalise my right to peaceful protest so they through a particular officer with personal grudges have now resorted to criminal charges of kidnapping and theft. Anyway that is just a bit of background, the real reason I write this is to make a heartfelt plea to Zimbabweans.

In Zimbabwean jails, you have nothing to do except watch and SEE what happens and to talk to other prisoners. Life in prison is dreary, many nights spent on hard floors, dirty blankets, stinking cells, long hours (16 hours) of lock down in small overcrowded cells can surely drive one up the wall. I slept next to murderers, car jackers, thieves , fraudsters, prostitutes, all of them human beings trying to survive. I was not there to judge them but to share in the battle to eke out some form of dignity for oneself and avoid being harassed or beaten or tortured by prison guards.

Counting the hours and days in your head or watching how the shadows change as the sun sets as you are not allowed to know the time becomes a favourite past time of many. A prison is supposed to be a place for correction and reform , but Zimbabwe's prisons become places of slow death and places where one's dignity and self esteem are stripped. I have seen none of the correction and reform except forced labour or nonsensical things like the daily watering down to clean the 12x25 meter concrete yard.

During 2008, time in prison was hell as there was such widespread hunger and skeletons habited most of Zimbabwe's jails. Things have improved somehow in terms of supply of food in Mlondolozi but I am afraid to say the food is badly cooked and hungry eyes tell the stomach that it cannot finish the meal served on plastic plates as it is so unappetising. Sadza and spinach is such a simple meal to prepare if cooked in clean pots with clean water and with care but both are lacking at Mlondolozi. The sadza of an indescribable colour with relish of either spinach drowning in it water and not a drop of oil or beans swimming in an Olympic pool of liquid are the 11:30 lunch and 3pm dinner menu. Porridge too is a burden to eat as it is cooked in yesterday's unwashed pots and 20% of inmates have that magic item called a spoon. Those with the other scarce item called a toothbrush use one side for brushing and another for dribbling porridge into their mouths. And so I learn that eating is half hunger and a whole lot to do with how appetising the food is, the result, inmates don't get their basic right to a decent cooked nutritious meal. Due to my friends and relatives I am able to get a meal and something for breakfast delivered to me daily but as before I find I cannot eat in those conditions and lost 4kgs despite spending most of the day sitting in the tiny yard. One appetite killer is the thought that someone in the cells who d s not have relatives to visit and cannot stomach prison food will go for days without a morsel. My colleague Magodonga spent many meal times urging me to eat so I could take my antibiotics to treat the infection of my recent surgery. There was no bathing or shower facilities in Hotel Central Police station and my pleas for clean water for me to cleaning my wounds for 3 days fell on deaf ears, it was if I was asking for a rock from the moon. By the grace of God the antibiotics worked, and the infection has cleared.
I have three things to ask of anyone reading this note but I am no expert but just sharing based on experience. Firstly talking to convicted prisoners, it becomes so clear that that people can be too trusting and this sets them up for a fall. Please take time to study and analyse people and take more seriously advice on how to prevent crime or carjacking. Don't leave your keys in the ignition and step out. Don't trust strangers no matter the gender, smile or eloquence. I am not saying go through life being suspicious and lose confidence in the basic good of a human but take the time to THINK before you act. This will and can save you from injury, harm death and or even losing your property.

Following on from the basic good point, some of the crimes that resulted in prisoners being given the yellow dress of a convicted person could have been solved my facilitated dialogue processes. Again, I ask us to think and try to find other ways than to send someone to a prison that cannot feed them in a country that will not reform or correct them. Instead of prisoners coming out as reformed members of society they re-enter society as hardened criminals with little hope of being reformed. I am also talking to employers of domestic staff. The police and justice systems in our country are not working as they should so in the meantime society must find another way to peacefully deal with crime that involves genuine reform and correction and restitution. By the way I have had lots stolen from me and many break ins but because of who I am, I am deprived of my right to walk into a police station and report a crime as it had resulted in my personal persecution for my human ights work.

If you have a relative in jail, please visit them, they need to see you even if you have nothing to give except your smile and a teaspoon or an empty container to use as a lunch box! If you can donate food or practical things to Mlondolozi for the 100 women there, please do so but make sure there is a record of the donation or demand to give it to a prisoner direct or through charitable organisations. Send body cream but not face cream. Don't send deodorant or things that women like to use to make themselves pretty and feminine because so strange undisclosed reasons feeling feminine is not allowed. During my stints I normally coped by reading magazines or short simple romance novels and prisoners and guards alike had always loaned these books to read so it is something that you can do to help pass the day or night, while waiting for Zimbabwe's slow wheels of justice to take their course.

May I take this opportunity to thank the many whom I know had me and my colleagues in their prayers.
God bless
Jenni

Reps Reporter – October 2011

2011-10-27T00:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings in a hot October as we all start the countdown to the festive season and the new year ahead. The highlight of the past month has been the Special General Meeting and the subsequent launch of the Debentures, aimed at funding Reps, so that not only can the society continue to function but that it can do so fully confident of great things ahead.
Debentures now on offer

There have been many messages sent out about these, so all we need do here is encourage each and every member to get involved and to encourage friends, family and colleagues to do so, too. The Debentures can be taken up by members and non-members alike. If you feel you don’t know enough please call the Reps office for more details.

Stars of Tomorrow can be seen this month

National Ballet’s annual show presenting the younger dancers from all the dance schools will be staged from November 11 to 19, with performances most nights at 6.30pm and matinees on both Saturdays at 2.30pm – and a Sunday matinee on Nov 13 at 2.30pm. Fans of dance will enjoy seeing the ‘littlies’ and you will be joining many family members and friends coming to see the dancers in action. During Stars of Tomorrow there will be colouring competition related to the upcoming Reps panto, with prizes of tickets to see the panto, so young members of the audience have something fun to look forward to.

Dreamcatcher will feature song and dance

On the evening of Sunday November 13, Reps and the National Ballet will jointly present a fundraiser show, starting at 6pm. This has been a feature of the November calendar for a few years and the show will, as before, feature a mix of song and dance and a good way to spend a Sunday evening. Performers for the show are being lined up at the moment – if you would like to volunteer, please let Philippa in the Reps office know.

Spar Zimbabwe supporting Reps and the panto

Spar Zimbabwe has kindly agreed to sponsor the panto this year – Robinson Crusoe (Main Stage December 1 to 23). This is very exciting as it will allow us to put together a great production and help promote it widely. Graham Crutchley has started rehearsals and it looks like being a winner. The Spar connection will bring in Childline, which we hope will benefit from this involvement, among which will be collection of toys and children’s items through a foyer collection box throughout the panto run. Members can help by promoting Robinson Crusoe far and wide and making sure everyone in town knows about it. This year’s panto will be a blockbuster and its stars include Marc Thomas, Sue Bolt, Martin Bolt, Emily Wetzlar, Stephane Thomas and a number of brand new faces! Two gala nights have already been sold so book early – it’s going to sell quickly and well!

Get going for Boeing Boeing

The return of the new year brings Boeing Boeing back to the stage – one of the best and funniest farces ever written! Zane E Lucas will direct this and as a special extra, there will be a members’ early booking window giving members preferential booking for the opening night on New Year’s Eve. See in the new year with this top rated farce and the fun in the members’ bar afterwards, or go on from the show to whatever event you will be attending that night.

Social events aplenty

Mails are coming out all the time about all the socials coming up, so no need to repeat them here. However, all members are encouraged to come along to these events – there’s always a lot on offer and people end up having a grand time. Sometimes these socials are open to the general public and this is a good way of letting people see just what goes on at Reps and they can then be encouraged to join as members themselves. Coming up on October 29 is The Rocky Horror Picture Show being screened in the theatre and linked to associated Halloween events before and after the screening. November 4 sees a Portuguese-themed bar party and November 6 has another Sunday pub quiz … and there’s lots to follow.

Hire charges standardised

A set of standard hire charges have agreed to and a schedule of these is available from the Reps office – everything from hiring the theatre to hiring equipment.

Members’ information

On our members list are many people whose whereabouts is no longer known, and we would appreciate it if people could assist us in identifying where they may be now. Among these are a reasonable number of Theatre Foundation Members and Life Members. We cannot publish all the names but if you get a chance to visit the Reps office and look at the list, perhaps you can advise if you know where some of these missing people can be found. Sadly, we have come across information indicating some have passed away and we have taken them off the list. Many people have moved abroad and we don’t have their contact details. Some may well still be in Zimbabwe but are not receiving our information and news.

Membership drive still on

Although the competition for the Blue Swallow Lodges prize for signing up new members has ended, the drive for new members continues. We have had a good number of newcomers coming on board in the past few months and we would like this to continue. Everyone’s a potential member and it’s a matter of drawing to their attention what Reps offers its members. Forms can be obtained in the Members’ Bar, the Spotlight or Reps office.

Reps website offers information on everything about Reps

All you need to know about Reps should be found on the Reps website, www.reps.co.zw, run for us by Mark Hyde. Please visit the site and give us feedback on what you find. It’s easy to reach and visit, and very much quicker than those huge websites which sometimes take a long time to get into.

Did you know …

… that Reps members get a 20 percent discount on tickets bought for Repertory Players productions on the Main Stage? It’s just one of the benefits of being a member. Sometimes this benefit is also accorded to members coming to see hire shows on our stage.

And some great news on subs

Exco has been decided that subscription fees for 2012 will remain at the levels of 2011, and a call for payment of subscriptions will be sent out later this year. Deadline for renewing is January 14. Work on streamlining the membership categories is taking place at the moment and information on this will be sent out with the call for subscriptions payments.

Until next time, keep cool!
Exco

ondolences

2011-10-26T23:41:00.000-07:00

York - Jessie Elizabeth (nee Greeff) Passed away peacefully on 20th October 2011 at home aged 94 after a long healthy life. Mother of Fred, Geoff, Connie and Lionel. Mother in law of Cynthia, Anita, Harold and Lesley. Grandmother of Richard, Candy, Michael, Joanne, Alister, Grant, Siobhan and Patricia. Great grandmother of Matthew, Ethan and Joshua. Funeral to be held at Hillside Methodist Church, Limerick Road on Thursday 27th October 2011 at 2:30pm. All friends and relatives are invited for refreshments after the service at the home of Fred and Cynthia York, 5 Southway, Burnside, Bulawayo.

++++Passing of Chris Dixon

It is with deep regret that I advise you all of the passing of Chris Dixon at 05h00 on October 21, 2011 in Harare, Zimbabwe.

As we know Chris battled with the dreaded 'C' and let us rather rejoice and celebrate his life knowing his pain is over and now he can rest in peace.

Chris attested with 16 PTC in March 1962 ad gained his Wings in June 1963.

The Pilot
By Gene West

I hope there's a place, way up in the sky,

Where pilots can go when they have to die.

A Place where a guy can buy a cold beer,

For a friend and a comrade whose memory is dear;

A place where no doctor or lawyer can tread,

Nor a management type would ere be caught dead;

Just a quaint little place, kind of dark, full of smoke'

Where they like to sing loud, and love a good joke;

The kind of place where a lady could go

And feel safe and protected by the men she would know.

There must be a place where old pilots go,

When the paining is finished, and the airspeed gets low,

Where the whisky is old, and the women are young,

And songs about flying and dying are sung,

Where you'd see all the fellows who have flown west before,

And they call out your name, as you came through the door.

Who would by you a drink, if your thirst should be bad,

And relate to the others, "He was quite a good lad!"

And then through the mist, you'd spot an old guy

You had not seen in years, though he taught you to fly.

He'd nod his old head, and grin ear to ear,

And say, "Welcome my son, I'm pleased that you're here."

"For this is the place where true flyers come,"

When their journey is over, and the war has been won."

"They've come here at last to be safe and alone"

"From the government clerks and the management clone,"

"Politicians and lawyers, the Feds and the noise,"

"Where all hours are happy, and these good ole boys"

" Can relax with a cool one, and a well deserved rest,"

"This is heaven, my son... You've passed your last test!"

"Rest in Peace Chris'"

Deepest sympathies to Gail and family and also all of Chris's Course mates on 16 PTC

Messages of sympathy can be sent to Gail on dixon@zol.co.zw

Kind Regards

Eddy Norris

++++
HASTINGS - Emma. Beloved mother of Hugh, Margaret and Sheila, mother-in-law of Peter, and grandmother of Justin and Katy, passed away peacefully in Pietermaritzburg, on Monday 17 October 2011, age 87. Emma embraced all she knew with love and wisdom, lightened life with humour and enriched our lives with her graciousness and pure spirit. Rest in peace, darling Emma, your soul is free.

HASTINGS, Emma. Late of Bulawayo. Peacefully in Pietermaritzburg, on Monday 17 October. Much loved sister of Dawn (nee Summerton), and loving aunt of Tracey and family in Queensland. Deeply missed and forever loved

Congratulations

2011-10-26T23:39:00.000-07:00

To Donald and Ann Henderson a grandson ! Born to Amy and Grant in Cape Town.

Great grandson of the Late Jimmy and Theresa McGroarty.
Much love and congratulations from Rick and Maggie
++++++

Travis and Kim Craddock proudly announce the safe arrival of their little girl, Chelsea Rebecca on 20th October 2011.
Congrats to Travis and Kim on the long awaited arrival of Chelsea Rebecca. Lots of love Rob, Lynne, Kylie and Lorna. xoxox

Richard David Thompson

2011-10-25T23:51:00.000-07:00

Richard David Thompson loving husband and father to Trish Thompson, Darren Thompson, Belinda Thompson and Jason Thompson. Passed away Monday 24th October 2011,

We know you are at peace on the river with a brandy and coke or Whiskey and soda in hand and the Beegees playing full blast in the background, fishing for tiger!! May you catch that big one!!

Our Father, Loving Husband and mentor to many will dearly missed! He was one of a kind! And we will always love you and are blessed to have had him in our lives!

MEMORIAL WILL BE HELD AT WINGATE GOLF CLUB MONDAY 31ST OCTOBER 2011 COULD EVERYONE BE THERE 2:30PM TO START AT 3:00PM DRESS CODE IS CASUAL CASH BAR FOR AFTER bathompson29@gmail.com

Chris Dixon

2011-10-25T00:25:00.001-07:00

Funeral Notice ; Chris Dixon ,much loved husband of Gail and father of Simone and Julian passed away on the 21st October . The funeral service and thanksgiving for his life will be held on Wednesday the 26^th October at 230 at St Georges School Chapel .Friends are welcome .For more information please contact Gail’s sister lizo@hrpractice.co.zw or call 0772236960

THE 4X4 CLUB – ZIMBABWE

2011-10-24T01:12:00.000-07:00

THE 4X4 CLUB – ZIMBABWE

Newsletter No: 85 -
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2011

P O Box HG 594 Highlands Harare Zimbabwe The Motor Sports Club House, 2 Annan Road, Eastlea, Harare.
The Chairman and Editorial Team:
CHAIRMAN: Tim Thorburn 498723 / 0772.645.518 thorburn@mweb.co.zw
EDITORS Mike & Pat GILL 494028 / 0712.400.243 / 0712.440.794 gill@zol.co.zw
4x4 Club Website http://www.4x4.co.zw Face Book Site: 4x4 Zimbabwe

The 4x4 Club is affiliated to the Zimbabwe Motor Sports Federation - ZMSF

Our Club is a member of the Mashonaland Motor Sport Association Club House, situated at: 2 Annan Rd. Eastlea. It is available for hire for weddings, conferences, kid's parties, 21st birthdays, etc.

News, comments and opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Club or the Committee

THE EDITOR’S DESK - Michael and Pat Gill

We wish to say sorry that this is so delayed after the August issue but we have had a lot on our plate including our 50th Wedding Anniversary and a visit by our "Grand Children" from UK. All back to normal now. I did take the young out to Donnybrook in my SWB Patrol "Stubby" for some driving on the 4x4 tracks. Tim is a Police Traffic Patrol car driver in the UK and Martha is a CID Officer so there was sure to be a conflict of driving methods. Must say they both did very well till we nosed into one of the "Extreme" holes and even our LWB Patrol could not get us out backwards. Fortunately the only large tree nearby was straight in front and the winch pulled us out. Phew! A memorable day for them, and us.

MEMBER'S NEWS:

Tammy Ellis: Congratulations on attaining your majority. Tammy turned 21 on 27th August and had a very good party at Tree Tops to celebrate. .

Cheryl and Martinus NEL: Our sincere condolences to Cheryl and Martinus on the tragic and untimely death of their son Christopher in a motor accident.

Michael and Pat Gill: Your editors celebrated their 50 years of matrimonial bliss on 14th October.

Ray Walker: It is with regret we advise you of the death of Ray's wife Joan. She had been suffering for the last six months or so with a brain tumor. So sorry Ray, Joan was a lovely lady.

TECHNICAL

We all have occasions to need some kind of specialist work done on our cars. In my case it was to weld a small reinforcing plate UNDER my Landy chassis. Personally I find welding upside down impossible so I made use of Power Pipes in Msasa. Here they lifted the car up high, used a MIG welder and a chap who spends his days welding exhaust pipes over his head. What a pleasure to see a professional at work. And all the little red hot bits went down his sleeve and not mine.

TANK STANDS.

On your next trip out to our site at Donnybrook, you will notice our new Water Tank Stands. We have had to move the water tanks from the top of the containers as they were beginning to rust and there was a fear that one day they might topple over. This was done from Jamboree Sponsorship at of cost of $2000. We thank our sponsors.

On Sunday 2nd a team of happy helpers took the tanks off the containers and hoisted them up on top of the new stands at the end of the toilet block. We still have the pipe work to finish. Progress at last!

SUBSCRIPTIONS

It has been agreed that subscriptions for 2012 will be $40 for subs; and $20 joining fee for new members. See renewal notice at the end of this newsletter. Please pay your subs promptly and if you are going to enter any competitions then I suggest you get your ZMSF Competition Licence at the beginning of the year. Cost for the year is $35. This will save you paying $20 for every competition and your Medical Insurance is greatly increased as well. And it will save you filling in masses of forms at registration each time.

BALLY VAUGHAN WILD LIFE SANCTUARY

The idea behind the 4x4 Tour we had arranged was to get members out into an area they would not normally see, a nice drive and to finish at Bally Vaughan Sanctuary. We did ask people to bring a donation of goodies or cash so that we can help this worthy cause. Well, it went off so well we thought we would be oversubscribed. It was a lovely day and the loads of things we delivered included a step ladder, several pockets of cement, bags of dog biscuits, a large pile of plastic bowls, nails and wire netting and so on. Well done members!

We had a very good turnout, 25 cars and here are two short comments received.

" Just wanted to let you know Megan, Cheryl and I had a great time on the 4x4 run – my little RAV was quite impressive climbing up and down the big rock we went on!!" the three girls from the American Embassy."

"On behalf of all the birds and animals at the Bally Vaughan Sanctuary, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all of you for your donations delivered on Sunday. What a huge help to us – thank you so much. It was lovely having you all with us and I hope you enjoyed your day.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our work here – we appreciate it so much.

Sarah and all at the Bally Vaughan Sanctuary"

SARAH CARTER - THE BALLY VAUGHAN SANCTUARY ZIMBABWE

Tel: 263 772 592 944 263 733 436 239

email: sarah@ballyvaughan.co.zw - www.ballyvaughan.co.zw

THE 2011 BUSH PIG CHALLENGE AT BEATRICE

Eight teams, 16 cars, had a grand time out at Beatrice at usual, but all on new territory, new rocks, rivers and mud. Much of the traditional test sites are on land that has recently been grabbed so it was quite a challenge for the "route planners" to find new places. This they did to the extent that there were 16 DNFs which includes several tests not driven because the car was "broke".

The event traditionally has several night tests on Friday and these wiped out several teams. They were able to continue on Saturday which had a selection of sand, mud, water and more rocks and more broken cars. Not every broken car was directly caused by the rocks etc. Our alternator and started stopped and the Gweru entrant, BJ was injured by a stick which nearly took out his eye on the last test, which he finished, then rushed off to hospital. He was soon back to tell more "war stories". Camping weather was good and Beatrice Club looked after us with the usual good food and showers, etc. We even had a model aircraft and helicopter display on the rugby field.

Our major sponsor was Big Sky with "SecureTech" recovery gear. Some very useful items were handed out. The winners - Team "Numba Wun".

As all the cars are what you might call Comp Cars we noticed a few changes. Jim Perry has changed the 4 cyl petrol motor for a Rover V8. BJ has a set of "Unbreakable" drive shafts. Pete Jenkin had taken out the rear wheel steering and put in a standard axle – no broken drive shafts this year! Mark Benzon had changed the 4cyl diesel to a 4 cyl petrol Rover motor in his little red Jeep "Bud". Gareth brought along his new orange "Stinky" which looked a bit like a battered stock car afterwards. The same can be said for Kelvin's Series 1 after it had rolled.

Bush Pig Results.

Numba Wun Mass Kirk Tim Thorburn

Dream Team Alex Hawkins Dale Kiggen

Bush Rats Jim Perry BJ Lawry

Kalahari Michael Gill Mark Benzon

Dirty Buggers Trevor Butler Rodney Beckley

Wife Beaters Peter Benzon Shane Ellis

Crikey Pete Jenkin Gareth Geach

Fugly Kelvin Weare Malcolm Attwell

BUSH PIG PHOTO COMPETITION

Did you take any photos at Bush Pig? If so please send three of your best to Grant Weare to judge and you could be the winner of a Bush Pig Shirt. grant@ezytrack.co.zw

THREE HILLS

This has become an annual overnight camping weekend 40 ks from town which is then followed by a good 4x4 drive up two more hills. This time we had a good party on Moon Rock, the moon lit up the country. Some spent the night and some went home to bed.

After a beautiful sunrise and a big cooked breakfast six cars set off to climb the big one, Zhekezheke which always has a good test at the bottom. After the rains the views were stunning and the trails dust free. An early lunch was had by a small river and someone had to get stuck in the mud. Fortunately Shane managed to get his Rangie out so we went on to Kite Hill. While driving along the ridge we saw flashes of light coming from the top of the hill and had no idea what was making these flashes. On arrival at the top we were greeted by Flossie and Neil trying to send semaphore messages with a mirror to us. After flying kites for a while we took the more interesting route down, crossed the river and set off home.

Mike and Murray Patrol

Mark & Hilary Patrol

Peter & Tam Patrol

Gareth & Ashley Rangie

Tim Terrano

Shane & Simone Rangie

Neil & Flossie Patrol

Carol & Derek camped the night but being in a 2WD pickup they went home after breakfast. Got to get that 4x4 soon!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS:

4x4 Club Diary - 2011

These dates change as the year progresses, but flyers will be sent out before each event.

November 12 (Sat) Corporate Day & English Rules Donnybrook

November 18-20 Dungbeetle Mutare

December 4 Christmas Run Day

Social and SOAP fund raiser.

DONNYBROOK

To enter Donnybrook on a non-event day it will cost you $1 per car, providing you have you membership card. Non-members will be charged $10 per car. You must sign the book at the gate and put your name, your Club and membership number. Do not pay without signing the book.

Please note: If you wish to go to Donnybrook to play and there is another event on, then the organizing club can charge what they like for you to enter as they will have hired the entire complex for that day. Please don’t try and argue with the gate attendant as they will just be doing their job. Either pay-up or go away and come back on a free day.

WEB SITE / FACE BOOK

Have you had a look at our Web Site? Grant Weare, Kelvin’s son has done a really good job of updating it. Go to: http://www.4x4.co.zw

We have a Face Book site and for those members, who are on Face Book, feel free to join the site: 4x4 Zimbabwe

Motor Sports Association Club House

MSA Membership: The Club House bar works on a Swipe Card basis and any member of an affiliated club can join. Pay your $20 Club House subscription and get your card. Bar prices are double for non-cardholders.

Hall for Hire - Hire our affordable Club facilities for parties, Wedding Receptions, meetings, seminars, courses and other functions. Assist us in this way to obtain funds for the Clubhouse.

Michael and Pat GILL

See renewal notice below …………………………

THE 4 x 4 CLUB

P.O. BOX HG 594 HIGHLANDS HARARE ZIMBABWE

2 Annan Road, Eastlea, Harare.

www.4x4.co.zw

Affiliated to the Zimbabwe Motor Sports Federation

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL - 2012

Name: ...........................................................................................................

Address: .............................................................................................

…………………………………………………………………………………

Telephone numbers : Home:.……........................ Work:: ……………...........................

Cell:...........................………........... E-mail :……………………..........................

In order to keep our records up-to-date, please complete in full.

Signed: ............................................... Date: ...……..................................

Annual subscription for 2011 is US$40

Our Bank Account Details, if you wish to do a direct deposit:

The 4x4 Club; NMB Borrowdale Branch;

Branch Code: 11106 Account No: 260066827

Please advise me as soon as you have paid, or we will not be able to reconcile the account and you will not get your Membership Card.

Pat Gill: Membership Secretary

Phone: 494028 Cell: 0712.440.794 Email: gill@zol.co.zw

Reporting dumping domestic waste from a vehicle in Zimbabwe

2011-10-24T00:52:00.000-07:00

Reporting dumping domestic waste from a vehicle in Zimbabwe is quick, simple, and anonymous

Motorists reporting a violation will be asked to provide the following:

Date when the littering occurred

Location at which littering occurred

Description of the vehicle, including the license number

Description of the item littered

Side of vehicle (driver or passenger) from which littering occurred

CONTACT DIRECTOR OF

WASTE MANAGEMENT
770362 - 752637
wmanagement4@gmail.com
WARNING... WARNING... WARNING...
PENALTIES AND FINE $50 - 20- = 250

NOTICE ABOUT BURNING

2011-10-21T00:34:00.000-07:00

Contact any of the below:

• Your local municipal office

• The Fire Brigade (who fine up to $500)

• The Environmental Management Agency

Steady Kangata - PHONE: 705661-3 Email: ema@ema.co.zw Toll free: 0800 4297.

• The City of Harare OPERATIONS OFFICE 770362/752637 or email Mr Chibanda on emusavazi@hararecity.co.zw

…………..

ANOTHER DANGEROUS ROAD!!

2011-10-21T00:30:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER DANGEROUS ROAD!! Just less than a km past the Borrowdale Brooke complex entrance on CROWHILL RD. (going away from Borrowdale Rd.) is a really nasty bend... several cars have gone over the edge there (Friday nights are bad!!) The road is also narrow and the edges have a nasty drop off. PLEASE take care there.

KITFT folk or anyone travelling to Kariba

2011-10-21T00:23:00.001-07:00

KITFT folk or anyone travelling to Kariba….Beware of SPEED TRAPS!! The Police are out in full force so adhere to the speed limits…this last w/e I think our speeding fines cost us more than our Kariba trip!! Special mention is coming into Chinhoyi & going out of Karoi, near Rydings School. They were catching people by the dozens!! Travel safely!!

JUDGE FIONA

2011-10-21T00:18:00.002-07:00

JUDGE FIONA ( FORMERLY OF BULAWAYO)

Died in New Zealand

No more pain or suffering my friend

Val

CONGRATULATIONS - SCHMIDT

2011-10-21T00:18:00.000-07:00

SCHMIDT - Kurt and Rebecca (nee' Stockil) are proud to announce the arrival of their first daughter at 5.10pM on Wednesday 12th October 2011 in Maputo, Mocambique. Mother and daughter doing well and Dad recovering. !

stranded Mozambiquans

2011-10-21T00:15:00.000-07:00

In the last couple of months I have received calls from 2 separate friends, who have met up with stranded Mozambiquans, in Zim. They have a long story to tell about how they have broken down/run out of fuel, and require some dollars to get them on there way. They appear to have done some research, and can name drop convincingly.i.e. your name, your spouses name, maybe some business associates etc. They offer their bosses names, and phone numbers, (Vilankoulos, seems to be the place), who will only be too delighted to refund. etc etc. On both occasions I have called the numbers, and they are either not reachable, or no longer in use, and I have called friends living in those areas and they have never heard of the "boss". If someone is feeling charitable, ask to see their passport ( 'Sorry, I've left it in the car, or with a friend').

Yvonne Josephine Mary (Sanderson) Van Rensburg

2011-10-21T00:13:00.001-07:00

It comes with great sadness, the passing of Yvonne Josephine Mary (Sanderson) Van Rensburg in Mutare on Monday 17th October 2011. ‘Vonnie’, a devoted wife, mother to Mark, Andy, Ainsley and Michelle; Grandmother to Lee, Nicole, Matthew, Shane, Gavin, Blaire, Dylan, Hayley, Timothy and Brett; Great Grandmother to Jonty and Kieran. Funeral service will be held at the St Columbis Presbyterian Church in Mutare on Saturday 22nd October 2011. Teas will be served after the service at the church. lee.sanderson@zol.co.zw

GRAHAM W R ELLIOTT

2011-10-21T00:07:00.001-07:00

GRAHAM W R ELLIOTT Our dear brother, father, uncle, friend... Slipped away peacefully on Monday 17 October. We will be celebrating his life on Friday 21 October at 3pm at 30 Twickenham Drive, Northwood. May he Rest in Peace jacqui@ballantynespar.com

...........

REPS

2011-10-20T23:38:00.001-07:00

Quite a few people have called to ask about the productions at Reps this week, so here is a reminder: Four shows are being staged at Harare’s Reps Theatre this week, each with a different theme and format and each with a broad appeal to Harare audiences. On the Reps Main Stage, the week is dominated by two productions from Zambia: a children’s folklore tale called Panali Panali and a comedy for mature audiences called Married Versus Singles. They are presented by Dinaledi Productions and directed by Zimbabwean actor-director Tsungai Garise, who is now based in Lusaka. Panali Panali features a selection of African traditional children’s stories, and is being staged at 3.30pm each afternoon this week up to and including Saturday October 22. Married Versus Singles is a comedy with a morality angle, focused on married women and single women and looking at their relationships with men. It is on stage each evening at 7pm until Saturday October 22. The shows have a cast of Zambian actors and, should these productions gain popularity while here, Garise will consider bringing more productions to Harare.

Also on stage this week and next in Theatre Upstairs at Reps is a tragi-comedy, The Memory of Water, which was written by Shelagh Stevenson and directed by Jamie McLaren. A joint venture between The Repertory Players and McLaren’s Under The Affluence group, the play is about a group of women who gather after their mother’s death and has a mix of poignancy and humour that will have broad appeal. It carries a PG15 advisory. The Memory Of Water has a preview on Wednesday October 19 and opens on Thursday October 20, running until Saturday October 29.

A one-off show will be featured on the Reps Main Stage on Sunday October 23 (2pm). It is called Floriano and is a flower show in which the Zimbabwean floral artists who recently took part in the World Flower show in Boston, USA, will recreate their works for local audiences to see.

Booking for all these productions is now open at The Spotlight, which can give details of performance times.

st water pipes

2011-10-19T02:15:00.000-07:00

Harare City Council - Burst water pipes can be reported on 791101 or 772453.

LYNDA THOMSON.

2011-10-18T02:59:00.000-07:00

LYNDA THOMSON. The Memorial Service for the late Lynda Thomson will take place at Highlands Presbyterian Church, Enterprise Road,

on FRIDAY 21st October at 10.00am. M. Richardson maryri@zol.co.zw 0712 631 305

YE OLDE RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS OF HARARE.

2011-10-18T02:50:00.001-07:00

YE OLDE RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS OF HARARE.

Here's some interesting news about the hotels and restaurants in

Zimbabwe - it's old news but worth reading again for nostalgia.

The once much-loved George Hotel Avondale closed January 4: sold to

Multi-Choice as new HQ. A planned valedictory meal in the grotesquely

named Freckle and Phart pub, or depressing dining room, reminiscent of

railway architecture circa 1946, aborted as it was semi-gutted well

before closure.

Previously Charleston Hotel (ex-KamfinsaPark) also shut: "Due to ever

rising rent hikes," I heard. Both places underwent major changes in

clientele, facilities, ambience, even cleanliness but are fondly

remembered for special functions. The George, especially, for wedding

receptions.

Since independence Harare lost the popular Windsor Hotel on Baker

(Nelson Mandela) Avenue. It housed the Colony, where Edwin and

Rachelle played twin pianos to international cabaret standards to

discerning diners in formal finery. Lincoln Room had fantastic value

for money food in luxurious surroundings. It closed late November 1980

when set three-course lunch, featuring baron of beef rolled to the

table, carved to order was $1,50.

1890 was the cocktail bar. Popular with lunchtime philanderers, it

shut 2:30 sharp, when top-up topers moved next door to Branch Office

(ex-Blue Room) opening 10:30 to 10:30. Some heroic boozers returned to

1890, which shut at 11:30. Egg and I was in the same building, as was

Lion's Den:

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 an American

religious sect which left the country at UDI.

Premises were banned from selling drink or tobacco; dancing was

proscribed. For years they thought it was a library!

Picture the indignation when they found the country's most bawdy,

boozy, bare-knuckled, bra-less nightlife had flourished there for

years! 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 troubled times.

Three major Chinese outlets closed after 1980: Golden Dragon, a hang

out of pre-independence Ministry of Information people, the bar a

favorite with international journalists; Bamboo Inn with dark, dingy

but somehow appealing pub run by an Irishman called (of course) Paddy.

Mandarin had no bar, but hacks and hackettes gathered round a service

hatch as if in a Fleet Street club.

Down the way Pink Panther!

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, liberal hours. The "Page" owners: a blonde

and a brunette belonged in international glamour magazines.

Pino's in Union (Kwame Nkrumah) was arguably the best seafood joint

around, but gained notoriety when someone complained and the ebullient

eponymous Portuguese proprietor whacked him over the pip with a flamb

pan. 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.

At Msasa, Red Lantern, run by S-W African (Namibian) Germans

specialized in eisbein, knackwurst and bratwurst I can still smell and

taste. Beverly Rocks was an 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 an ex-

Federal hangman and Commonwealth boxing gold medal winner. Good stop

there on the way to or from Three Monkeys Marandellas (Marondera) for

lunch. (Now a religious institute.)

Glen Lorne's local was the festive Highlands Park , run by ex-Kenya

big game hunter Toby Royston. Great dinner dances, lovely Sunday

lunches, cream teas in the garden. Spaniards, Marlborough (ex-Quorn)

served incredibly good food, except soup: always watery, insipid and

costly.

There's not been another Harare establishment like Sandro's. Starting

as a private club, it retained clubland ambience till the end. Five

star cooking or basic bar lunch, often polished cabarets; journalists

and businessmen rubbed shoulders with cabinet ministers. Sardinian

Sandro also ran Eros: fine Mediterranean food and friendly bar and

Sandrock's, for back-packers.

Close by was Taco's with usually picaresque punters pinting.

BB House has recently been rebuilt; Ramambo Lodge was there. Never my

favorite, tourists liked its rustic furniture, Shona sculpture,

marimbas, game meat.

I preferred a previous operation: Flanagan's with

foot-stomping trad jazz Saturday lunches (Bob Gilmour and the

Bobcats.) Fish and chips, tripe and onions, steak egg and chips, curry

and rice 75c.

Covered Waggon/Homestead served scrumptious salads: a

favourite with females, when ladies who lunch lunched in town!

I played domin s in The Chalet as a suitcase bomb exploded at

Woolworths nearby with many fatalities (the mother of my children was

due to be there.) Regulars helped survivors. (Barbours was the real

target.) On more pacific Chalet days, great juicy joints were trundled

in at lunch; patrons sliced their own for 50c with pickles, mustard,

horseradish, chips and rolls. The city's best pies were served in a

motor sport-theme cocktail bar. There was a civilized snooker room

(not a crummy pool hall.) It became a motor parts store, then a Spar.

Tipperary's on Fife Avenue, came and went unlamented, as did the

adjoining Khyber Pass; Cassidy's, Glenara, had fleeting popularity;

now a car showroom. Park Lane (now GMB HQ) the Kiya Nyama steakhouse

there unrivaled outside Bulawayo .

Howff, Chisipite, a Scottish theme

pub/restaurant with super sing-along nights, memorably good prawn

specials. In the same suburb, Sports Bar enjoyed a brief dedicated

following, earning no stars from moi, unmourned when shutters fell as

Innscor concentrated on "core" business.

Clovagalix, Fife, caught fire once too often, becoming Cafe Med,

Borrowdale.

Caruso's 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 Mama Mia's it thrives at Newlands.

The Cellar, Marimba Park was tops with journos and the printing trade,

serving wonderful whisky prawns, real rosti; 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 license to print money. New

owners cut corners. Now it's a swimming pool sundries shop.

Meikles closed Mirabelle, The Causerie, Flagstaff and Captain's Cabin;

Bagatelle, there, and La Chandelle, The Sheraton's fine French

restaurant no longer routinely open; Aviator's Arms is shut to non-

residents. Monomotapa lost 1001 Horsemen and Bali Hai, but gained La

Francais from Avondale.

When everywhere else closed, you could get ABFs at Al's Place The

Kopje.

Probably unlicensed: whether you ordered whisky, brandy or rum it came

from one bottle; gin, cane, vodka, white rum another. 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), opposite where I squirmed

as West End stage stars died a death. Aphrodite, Strathaven, was a

superb Greek restaurant; Demi's near State Lotteries closed due to

commuter omnibuses' anarchistic parking. Up the street, Copacabana

served wonderful Portuguese food, having previously been a great

Chinese (White Lotus?) Himalaya , nearby, did colossal searing

noon curries at minimal cost but was avoided after dusk.

Variously Rosedale's, Rose Bowl and Rose & Crown the Hatfield outlet

was a superb Sunday lunch venue with live entertainment. One of the

best seafood platters I've eaten here was at Kentucky, also Hatfield.

On a positive note there's a flurry of recently opened ethnic

restaurants, tea, coffee shops and lodges; Jameson's Tiffany's re-

opened after many years. Sadly, few seem to have the character or

characters in which the closed establishments were so rich, but time

will tell.

Written by an unknown Harare Journalist - thank you whoever you are !

2011-10-18T02:47:00.000-07:00

The Tragic Death Of Keith Nicolson On 13/09/2011

To whom it may concern,

My name is Adrienne Hough-Bekker, step-daughter to the late Keith Alan Nicolson. My mother is Carleen Nicolson who was married to Keith.

Due to misinterpretation of the events leading up to Keith Alan Nicolson’s death, his wife Carleen has requested that the following statement be released. This statement has been written by Tim Morgan who was abducted and present when Keith was killed. I wonder if you would publish this statement / blog on your website.

http://tragicdeathofkeithalannicolson.blogspot.com/2011/10/tragic-death-of-keith-nicolson-on.html?spref=fb

Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Kind regards Adrienne

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

Below is a factual account of the events leading to the tragic death of Keith Alan Nicolson, as given by Tim Morgan.

Around 2pm on Tuesday 13th September, the staff at Plot 196 Gold Dust were called to the gate by a group of unknown people in a White Toyota Ipsum. The gang said they were from Chinhoyi CID investigating the report by Mr Tim Morgan regarding his stolen laptop. The men then forced entry, assaulted members of the staff and their families before tying and gagging them inside the main house. The assailants began searching the house for cash and the location of a safe, keeping to rooms not visible on entry at the front door.

Mrs Bev Morgan arrived home at approximately 5.30pm, closely followed by Mr Morgan at 5.45pm. Both were handcuffed, hit and questioned about the safe and contents of Mr Morgan's laptop bag. They were taken to the same room as everyone else to be interrogated. By 8pm, everyone had been tied up in separate rooms and the assailants had loaded their car with a number of items of value and cash.
Mr Morgan was then instructed to get in the back of his twin cab as he was being taken to open the Safe at his Garage in Banket. One of the men got in the back next to Mr Morgan holding a pistol against him, another got in to drive and the remaining two men followed in the white Toyota Ipsum. Mr Morgan was threatened that he would be killed if he tried anything.

During the journey towards Banket there was some movement of weapons between the men in both vehicles, with an extra man getting into the front passenger seat of Mr Morgan's twin cab.

In the meantime a member of the staff had managed to get free and race to a neighbour to alert them of the situation. Henry Allen, his son Tony, Keith Nicholson and Randy Du Rand arrived at the house, on ensuring all was ok Henry, Keith and Tony gave chase as no one was able to contact the police. In the meantime, Keith's wife, Carleen Nicolson, had contacted someone else who arranged to get armed police to Mr Morgan's garage.

Henry, Keith and Tony were driving towards the Raffingora Road, when they saw the White Toyota and then the twin cab heading towards Raffingora; therefore assuming the robbery had taken place and fearing Mr Morgan's safety. They decided to follow the twin cab, which was behind the white Toyota, but suddenly it did a U-turn and was facing them.

Henry, Keith and Tony's vehicle stopped in front of the twin cab before it could drive off. The two armed assailants in the front of the twin cab jumped out the car to escape and began instantly shooting at them. Henry leapt out his vehicle and returned fire whilst chasing them towards the White Toyota. Keith and Tony also began to give chase passing Mr Morgan's twin cab.

Mr Morgan and the third assailant were struggling to get out of the back of the twin cab due to central locking. The armed assailant somehow managed to unlock his door when Keith, who had just passed the vehicle heard the door open and turned back towards it. The assailant by this time was outside the vehicle and Keith grabbed him. They were very close together when the shot that killed Keith was fired at point blank range.

The assailant ran off towards Banket whilst being chased by Tony but on hearing gun fire, Tony returned to the twin cab and immediately began administering CPR. By this time Henry had also returned to the twin cab after running out of ammunition.

Keith was rushed to Banket District Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Three of the four assailants have been caught. One was shot in the shoulder and was seeking medical treatment in Mvurwi and another was found dead from a gunshot wound. Two of the assailants are in remand awaiting trial.

The gang have been identified as being responsible for other armed robberies; a home in Banket and a store in Mutorashanga as well as various vehicle thefts

Safeguard Summery

2011-10-18T02:45:00.000-07:00

September 2011 Summary

We have been sending these reports out for a number of years now. The general feedback we get about their usefulness is good.

We think we can do better though, and welcome any comments you have on the content and what we could do to make this monthly bulletin more useful.

If you have any comments, or have a security incident to report that others should be aware of , please let us know, and we will post the comments on our website for general information and action.

Looking at the Break In report you will see that those people that used their alarm systems prevented loss and damage. There are too many cases still where alarms are not used. USE YOUR ALARM SYSTEM. If you are not sure how to use it, or need advice on how to set it up, then give us a call and we will help.
Alarm systems need not be expensive , and will work when needed if used daily, and maintained properly .

1. A FEW SERVICE REMINDERS
Toll free assistance -Remember we have a toll free number 0800 3222 297,
Road side and emergency help countrywide-If you are client of Safeguard Alarms you have access to a free cell phone panic service which allows you to call for help wherever you are in the country (as long as you are in cell phone range. The registration is free, and there are no monthly charges. Register now, or get more details by emailing us at info@safeguard.co.zw
2. NEW SERVICES
I T Security

-Are your internet bills too high?

-Do you pay too much for IT Support that is unreliable?

-Are you concerned about the security of your network?

The IT industry is expanding every day in Zimbabwe, and while this gives companies many opportunities, it also opens the door to a multitude of security and fiscal risks.

Safeguard now offer a consultancy that will work with you to address the IT issues above.

Contact us to discuss any concerns you may have and we will do our best to find the right solution for you, keeping your IT systems safe and efficient.
To arrange a meeting please phone Bruce Woodward on 0774 762 061 OR email Bruce on quality1@safeguard.co.zw.
BREAK IN REPORT SEPTEMBER 2011

Harare

On 26/08/11 at 0615hrs in Lincoln Green, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard. Outside alarm triggered and they ran away empty handed. Property has burglar bars, durawall and electric gate.

On 27/08/11 at 2250hrs in Ballantyne Park, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, broke a bedroom window, entered the house and stole various household goods. The alarm did not trigger because it was not armed. Property has durawall, electric gate and burglar bars.

On 01/09/11 at 0015hrs in Highlands, intruders removed two durawall panels and entered the yard, the outside alarm triggered and they ran away empty handed. Property has burglar bars, electric gate and durawall.

On 02/09/11 at 0330hrs in Hatfield, intruders cut three strands of electric fence and jumped over the durawall and entered the yard. Guards manning the premises saw them and pressed the panic button, alarm triggered and they ran away empty handed. Property has burglar bars, durawall, electric gate and electric fence.

On 02/09/11 at 0357hrs in Hillside, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, removed front one office window pane and entered the house. They stole household electrical goods and went away. The alarm did not trigger because it was not armed. Property has durawall and electric gate.

On 03/09/11 at 1602hrs in Westgate, intruders cut electric fence and razor wire and jumped over durawall and entered the yard, broke the lounge window and entered the house. They stole various household goods and went away. The alarm did not trigger because it was not armed. Property has burglar bars, electric fence, razor wire and electric gate.
On 04/09/11 at 0332hrs in Avondale, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, stole a gate motor and ran away. The alarm did not trigger because the area was not protected by the alarm. Property has durawall, electric gate and burglar bars.

On 04/09/11 at 1512hrs in Lincoln Green, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, broke the kitchen window, cut burglar bars and entered the house. They stole various household goods and went away. The alarm did not trigger as it was not armed. Property has durawall, electric gate and burglar bars.
On 10/09/11 at 0330hrs in Avondale, intruders removed three durawall panels and entered the yard. They broke the lounge window, cut burglar bars and entered the house. They stole various goods and went away, the alarm did not trigger because it was not armed. Property has burglar bars, electric gate and durawall.

On 12/09/11 at 0440hrs in Msasa, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, cut the front office door screen with a bolt cutter and forced open the door with a craw bar. The alarm triggered and they ran away empty handed. Property has durawall, electric gate and burglar bars.

On 13/09/11 at 2312hrs in Msasa, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard, forced open an office window with a sharp object, the alarm triggered and they ran away empty handed. Property has durawall and burglar bars.
On 21/09/11 at 0353hrs in Greendale, intruders jumped over the durawall and entered the yard. The outside alarm triggered, the reaction team arrived promptly and apprehended one of the intruders. Property has a durawall, burglar bars and electric gate.

Highlands 1

Avondale 2

Hillside 1

Lincoln Green 2

Ballantyne Park 1

Hatfield 1

Westgate 1

Borrowdale 1

Msasa 2

Greendale 1
BULAWAYO
On, 06/09/11 at 0322hrs in Town, intruders gained access into the building through the roof, they forced open all the locked doors, emptied all cupboards and shelves, tried to force open a kenwood built in safe but failed, tried to chisel their way through the brickwork of the safe and eventually abandoned their act without having stolen anything. Property has burglar bars, razor wire and durawall.No Alarm

For more information please visit our website on www.safeguard.co.zw

Jackie Mtetwa

info@safeguard.co.zw

SAFEGUARD SECURITY SERVICES (PVT) LTD

“When Security Matters”!!!!!

RIFA CONSERVATION EDUCATION CAMP NEWSLETTER

2011-10-18T02:37:00.000-07:00

We are intending in the future to send out regular Rifa Newsletters. We will let you know about any interesting happenings so that you can share the excitement of Rifa throughout the year, rather than merely during the one week that you might be fortunate enough to spend here! Also, as you are probably aware, Rifa is desperately in need of financial support. We will update you about our fund raising priorities.
September has seen some windy days, heralding in the hot season and the temperatures are creeping ever upwards. Of course, now is our 'Spring time' and the trees of the flood plain have responded with a wealth of blossom and fresh green leaf. The knob thorns were miraculously transformed from tatty and faded old ladies, into young girls billowing with creamy, bridal exuberance! The sausage trees have been decked with candelabras of maroon flower goblets and with new leaves of grasshopper green. The bats feed at the flowers by night and in the morning there is a carpet of fallen blooms. The baboons are in the trees early in the day, feasting on flower buds and fresh leaf salad. The kudu, bushbuck and impala gather below, breakfasting on the succulent flowers and the baboons' left overs. Recently it is the turn of the wild mangoes, now thick with egg-yolk orange flower heads to the delight of the Long-tailed (Meves's) Starlings and the Black-eyed (Dark-capped) Bulbuls.

The inland pans are now dry so the game is concentrated near the Zambezi. We are seeing plentiful impala which often demonstrate to the students how to excel in the high jump! Numerous families of warthog are excavating the couch grass - making off with radio-aerial tails raised when disturbed. Groups of kudu are frequently visible out in front of the camp, stretching up their necks to feed on the lower leaves of the natal mahogany trees and thus creating a neat, level browse line. The kudu population includes several young bulls with magnificent spiralling horns and powerful thick necks to support the weight. Some students have been fortunate enough to glimpse a group of six eland that sometimes feed near Barbel Channel. These animals are extremely shy and trot off into cover at the first sign of humans. Some nights we have heard grunting and rustling sounds from the flood plain and at first light have found a herd of buffalo in front of the camp, having a last nibble of green leaf and vetiveria grass before they retreat into the thick bush for the rest of the day. Recently Freedom counted over 360 in the herd!

Despite ongoing problems with our water pumps, we have tried to keep the water hole wet. With the arrival of the warm weather the elephant bulls have been making a bee line for this muddy wallow in the afternoons. Some abandon all pretence at dignity, and lie down on their sides, gleefully rubbing the mud into all the itchy places. They emerge, looking as if they were made out of melted chocolate.

The great news is that we appear to have a family of leopard resident near camp. A female and two sub-adults were seen early in the month. John Osborne has donated an agricultural flood light. This illuminates the flood plain in front of the camp with a gentle yellow glow, giving a surprising amount of visibility without disturbing the game with a harsh glare. Students from Belvedere Technical Teachers' College had gone to the edge of the terrace one evening to look down at a hippo that was engaged in some lawn mowing activity just below. They were rewarded with a view of two leopard!

Students walked to the Chipandure River cliffs as usual but this month they were treated to the spectacle of the Southern Carmine Bee-eaters, circling and gliding above their nesting colony like gleaming mobile jewels. The first Paradise Flycatchers have arrived, the males already complete with their breeding finery of long russet tails. A pair of African Skimmers is breeding on the sand spit beyond the 'Sunset' island. Recently they were seen dive-bombing a Saddle-billed Stork who had come too close. We hope they will have success in raising a brood.

We would like to be able to set up a research project to study the Long tailed (Meves’s) Starlings! These have been very active this month. In the mornings they have been flying in a constant direction over the flood plain - we presume on their way to feed either on the islands in the Zambezi or in Zambia? On the morning of 24th September, during a period of forty-five minutes, Dave counted 1218 starlings!

As usual, students enjoyed watching the sunset over the Zambezi including the 'five minute silence' during which everybody has an opportunity to concentrate on the beauty of the colours and the bird calls. The sun this month has been setting as a huge crimson orb, its intensity filtered by the haze from all the veld fires.

During September Chisipite Senior School and Belvedere Technical Teachers' College came to Rifa. Chisipite had a varied programme, including mapping, measuring the temperature of the Hot Springs, research and presentations on trees, and hunting, stalking and target shooting. Belvedere Technical Teachers' College students participated in discussions on some vital conservation issues, such as solutions to the conflict between people and wildlife, the roles of hunting and the National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.

There is no better way to describe the students' varied reactions other than through some quotes from their entries in our 'Rifa Experience' Journal:
Chisipite:

"The beach party on the last day made the centipedes worth it..."

"Lion and buffalo scarcely seen

The walking makes us rather lean

We learnt a lot and remembered each fact

From leopard's spoor to porcupine scat

Hunting and stalking, away we went

We shot at cans that left a dent..."

"I loved watching the elephants out of my dorm window..."

"Through Zimbabwe we have travelled to many places without any knowledge of our surroundings - but during our Rifa experience, we learnt to appreciate the diversity of our Zimbabwe and for that we will be eternally grateful..."

"Away from the stressed town of Harare and the polluted air I found a peaceful place..."
"For 17 years I've been looking for the meaning of life and after taking a break from the madness of the modern world to embrace nature I think my search has come to an end..."

And BTTC:
"This group believes in the College's motto of 'Spreading the Light'. Thus our report shall benefit not only those around today but even the future generation..."
Rifa used to be adequately financed through the payments made by the attending schools and the subscriptions from the members of the Zimbabwe Hunters' Association. This is no longer enough and we have serious problems. There are three areas where funds are needed: running costs; maintenance and camp equipment; and educational equipment and sponsorship.

Our grateful thanks to Ariel, Westridge, Bryden and Springvale who have donated to the camp in the course of the year. The camp is starting to look extremely “rustic” and in need of maintenance.

Of particular concern at the moment are the 40 mattresses in the dorms which urgently need replacing. The same applies to Cemwash. The whole camp needs a good splash of paint to smarten the whole place up. If anyone has a good source for these please let the office know.

We are in the process of looking for regular funding. However, until that is achieved, we are living very much a hand to mouth existence.

Our contact details are;

Trish Evans
for Zimbabwe Hunters Association
P. O Box HG 548, Highlands, Harare
16 Walter Hill Avenue, Eastlea, Harare
Phone 04 704977 / 8 or 707306Cell: 0772 329434

THE RIFA TEAM

Daeths - Bulawayo

2011-10-18T02:24:00.001-07:00

DITCHBURN - Julia. Loving wife of Alan, mother of Peta-Ann and Debbie, and Grandmother of Jan-Willem passed away peacefully on Tuesday 4th October 2011. Will always be remembered for her love of Africa, its people and its flora and fauna.
+++++++
DEATHS
BOUWER CHRISTOPHER (known to all as BERT)

My darling husband passed away peacefully on Monday 26th September 2011,

in Kleinmond, Western Cape, South Africa after a brave fight with cancer.

A memorial service will be held at the Kleinmond Fellowship Church on

Friday 30th September at 11am.

Bert will be deeply missed by his wife, Marinda, and daughters, Audra, Bernita and Sandy.

And his sister Esme' and brother-in-law Bill Edwards and families

Burning Leaves

2011-10-18T02:22:00.001-07:00

Readers Comment - I had an overwhelming response to my request for help on the terrible issue of burning leaves/compost/plastic etc..thank you. The best info that I got is as follows. Contact any of the below:

• Your local municipal office

• The Fire Brigade (who fine up to $500)

• The Environmental Management Agency

Steady Kangata - PHONE: 705661-3 Email: ema@ema.co.zw Toll free: 0800 4297.

• The City of Harare OPERATIONS OFFICE 770362/752637 or email Mr Chibanda on emusavazi@hararecity.co.zw

Zesa’s US$12m bulb tender cancelled

2011-10-18T02:20:00.000-07:00

http://www.herald.co.zw/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=22541:zesas-us12m-bulb-tender-cancelled&catid=37:top-stories&Itemid=130

Friday, 30 September 2011 02:00

Lloyd Gumbo Herald Reporter

THE State Procurement Board has cancelled all tenders for the supply of 5,5 million energy-saving bulbs because bidders failed to meet set requirements.

This will result in Zesa Holdings delaying the distribution of the bulbs worth US$12 million.

Zesa decided to distribute free compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), which will result in the country saving 200 megawatts.

This energy is enough to cater for half of Harare, the whole of Bulawayo or at least four small cities like Gweru, Kwekwe, Masvingo and Mutare.

Twelve bidders that had forwarded their tenders under a special formal tender process are now complaining that the cancellation was done under unclear circumstances.

They said the reasons were "illogical".

It is understood that the power utility is now considering floating an informal tender for new bidders.

Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company managing director Engineer Julian Chinembiri said it was the SPB that cancelled the tenders.

Said Eng Chinembiri: "We can recommend, but it is their decision (to either award or cancel the tenders)."

SPB chairman Mr Charles Kuwaza yesterday confirmed the cancellation of the tenders.

"We subsequently de-briefed the bidders on the reasons for cancellation. Some of the bidders are complaining that the cancellation was not in good faith and we are working together with the accounting officer to respond to these technical questions before the next tender is floated, whether formal or informal," he said.

Bidders who spoke to The Herald on condition of anonymity said reasons for the cancellation were not satisfactory.

They suspected there was a hidden hand behind the cancellation.

"They told us that we had failed to conform to the specifications like labelling the bulbs "ZETDC, not for sale" when other specifications which matter most like frequency, voltage and wattage had been met.

"These were just samples for God's sake. If one wins the tender that is when it can make sense to label them that way," said one of the bidders.

Another said some of the bidders represented big manufacturers such as Philips and Osram.

"If one says a bulb from Philips or Osram is not good enough, it just boggles the mind because those are the biggest bulb manufacturers in the world.

"Besides, ZETDC is currently selling Philips bulbs supplied by one of the bidders so we don't understand why they turned down the tender of companies representing big bulb manufacturers," he said.

A source said there had been a change of goalposts on when the bulbs would have to be delivered.

The source said the tender requirement was that the bulbs would have to be delivered in three months, but Zesa was now saying they wanted them delivered in six weeks.

"For the six week period to be met, it would translate to about 60 bulbs being manufactured per second which big companies said was not possible because on average they produce about 20 per second.

snare sweep up the Mucharara river

2011-10-18T02:18:00.001-07:00

karibainfo@gmail.com Snare Comment - NATIONAL PARKS - BASIC REGULATION Two young boys and a Gentleman did a snare sweep up the Mucharara river on Saturday without an escort from National Parks. They did a good job and found 15 snares and approximately 200 kg of PTC wire in lengths up 4 mts. This wire was hidden away and was obviously to be used in snaring after heating to soften. Copper wire was also found. The Area Manager for National Parks, Mr Gwanyanya drove past them, stopped and had a look at what their effort had produced .Mr Gwanyanya praised all for their efforts then berated all for going without an escort. Kariba Animal Wildlife Fund Trust works with National Parks and this is a tremendous effort these 3 put in BUT would like to remind everyone that that it is dangerous and against National Park Policy and Law to do this without an armed National Parks escort

Minimum Wages for Domestic Workers from 1st October 2011

2011-10-18T02:15:00.000-07:00

Minimum Wages for Domestic Workers from 1st October 2011 (and Allowances for those not resident on the property)

Wages were announced by the Minister of Labour on 28th September 2011, to take effect from 1st October 2011 and therefore payable from the end of October 2011, as –

 Yard/garden worker $85 per month, or $19,60 per week

 Cook/housekeeper $90 per month, or $20,79 per week

 Child-minder or disabled/aged minder $95 per month, or $ $21,94 per week

 Disabled/aged minder with Red Cross Certificate

or similar qualification $100 per month, or $23,10 per week.

Monthly allowances for those not provided with free lodging, water, lights and cooking fuel –

• Accommodation $50

• Transport $26

• Lights $ 5

• Cooking Fuel $ 5

• Water $ 5

This information is for your advance planning. It is likely that a Statutory Instrument, to give legal effect to the Minister’s announcement, will be gazetted before the end of October 2011. Even if gazetted later than that, the wages will no doubt be backdated to 1st October 2011.

(INSERT into George Makings What the Law says about Employment of Domestic Workers, 2011)

Complaint about DSTV

2011-10-18T02:06:00.000-07:00

Criticisms and complaints about the DStv service are often sent through to Bambazonke and other electronic services, this means that we do not have sight of these complaints unless some-one forwards them to us .To assist us in improving our service we would request that complaints are forwarded to help@dstv.co.zw which we will acknowledge and act on accordingly. There has been a recent complaint regarding the non-availability of DISH magazine, which we can address specifically for Bambazonke recipients.

On December 31, 2010 Multichoice Africa terminated its traditional TV guide, the Dish Magazine

The decision forms part of the company’s commitment to the protection of the environment. As such, the company aims to stop deforestation by reducing the amount of paper it uses in Africa.

Yes it is correct that subscribers in South Africa are still receiving the dish magazine at this point in time – however the SA business is planning to phase the magazine out early next year..

The programming schedules and programme information are now available as follows: on the electronic programme guide accessed through pressing TV Guide on DStv remote control devices; on the DISH channel (channel 100); and on the www.dstv.com website. It must also be pointed out that most of the daily and Sunday newspapers in Zimbabwe are helpful in carrying one or more channel programme listings, for viewers’ interest.

Zimbabwe Power Company 2nd October 2011 (10pm)

2011-10-18T01:57:00.001-07:00

Chairman’s Statement

Zimbabwe Power Company 2nd October 2011 (10pm)

Starting with the end in Mind

It is important that customers are regularly informed of the stark reality of generation capacity in Zimbabwe. If the facts are understood then it is up to each individual to assess how best they can cope going forward into the next four to five years. There has been no meaningful investment in additional power since the 1980’s – 25years! Over the past two and a half decades there has been major growth in our population as well as a population drift to the urban areas.

The demand for power is around 1,800 MW at daily peak and this is growing. Local installed operational capacity today is around 1,200 MW – so we have a gap of 30%. As ZPC implement their program to stabilise and optimise the generation capacity at all its stations over the next 12 months the supply will increase to 1,500 MW - but in the meantime demand will continue to increase.

The ONLY way to close this gap is to install additional capacity and the shortest timeline to achieve this is four years. So I urge all customers and stakeholders to understand this and take whatever steps they can to mitigate against this stunted power capacity.

I suggest that an Energy Forum is established amongst major customer groups to facilitate dialogue around this critical aspect of life in Zimbabwe. We need to seek solutions that will help address this shortage: remove duties on solar power equipment, remove duties on low energy power devices, change the building by-laws to insist that all middle and high income new houses use solar geysers, insist that new mines install solar systems in their housing and other water heating processes etc. Most importantly to engage in a national education campaign on how to be more economical in our power usage .

Other power producers need to be encouraged to enter the market. Licenses have been issued but it seems there is little appetite to invest, why? We need to debate these issues.

An Update on Capacity Expansion

Kariba and Hwange

There has been a very positive response to the “Expression of Interest” for the expansion at both Kariba and Hwange. The “Expressions of Interest” closed in mid-September and our team of Hatch, KPMG Consortium and management are reviewing the documents before making recommendations to the State Procurement Board. This will then be followed by a formal tender to prequalified companies.

To ensure that the momentum is maintained it is vital that the Independent Regulator is put in place outside of the Ministry and that this new body engenders the confidence of potential investors.

Small Thermals

WAPCOS (an Indian consultancy group in the power sector) will finish the feasibility studies to re-power the boilers at the small thermal stations. We then intend looking for funding / joint venture partners to help us carry out these upgrades.

Recent History and the Current Situation

The month of September has not been a good month for ZPC and hence for you, the customer. Many of us over the last week have experienced up to five consecutive days of load shedding from 5am to 10pm. Why?

Before I continue, it is important to note that ZETDC (Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company) hold the balancing of supply and demand / (load shedding) responsibility. They have a load shedding plan which is in turn based on their expectation of power supply from ZPC as well regional power utilities. ZETDC are forced to deviate from this plan when there is a sudden loss of power from their suppliers – power generation outages at times occur without warning and this throws out the planned load shedding regime.

In writing this statement I will endeavour to give facts, to not be defensive yet not shy away from giving news that you need to hear.

There are four main themes that run through the low generation this month and particularly over the last 10 days, namely: sluggish and below par (in my view) performance of the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), underperformance of the procurement and logistic chain (both in-house and external suppliers), ongoing cash flow challenges (ZPC have only received approximately 80% payment this year for the energy it has generated and sent out, as payment of imports are given precedence) and finally the ongoing occurrence of regional power swings( surges) into our transmission systems where protection is insufficiently robust.

Some Detail.

If detail is not what you want please skip to the next section.

Kariba Power Station

This station has been generating at full capacity for much of the last two years except for planned shut downs. In June this year a failure occurred in the generator winding of Unit 2. These are copper windings as thick as one’s arm. It can only be replaced by the OEM who had to design and outsource the replacement section. During this outage a crack was found in one of the turbine blades which only the OEM can repair. This repair work is under way and is scheduled for completion before mid-October. In my view the OEM did not, and could not be encouraged to, respond to our crisis with the urgency demanded by our unique situation or with the respect that a 30 year relationship deserves. Our MD has been in Europe this week to discuss this with the OEM.

During the week ending 25th September the protection on Units 3 and 4 tripped. Unit 4 was isolated from the transformer which it shares with Unit 3. Unit 3 was then brought back into service. After meticulous trouble shooting it was found that switch gear and control devices, which were replaced by another OEM during our maintenance shut downs earlier this year, had failed. Repairs to these devices are underway under guidance of the OEM from Europe.

So in summary Kariba has been down to four units for the last 10 days with the station expected to return to full capacity by mid- October.

Hwange Power Station

As I have mentioned in prior statements there is a significant amount of work still required to stabilise this station not the least of which is the Ash Disposal section of the process. As money becomes available we go to tender against a prioritised schedule of replacement components – some of which have lead times of up to one year!

We have lost the four Phase One (smaller) units over the last week to 10 days. Unit 1 due to the failure of the “Boiler Feed Pump” which is new and under warranty, Unit 2 due to a the failure of its thrust bearing, Unit 3 due to wear on its induction fans caused by the under-performing de-ashing system and Unit 4 due to the failure of its “Boiler Feed Pump”.

To exacerbate the situation the entire station was taken out by a surge out of Eskom (S.A) on Tuesday 27th September.

At time of writing this statement we now have two Phase Two (larger) units and one Phase One(smaller) unit feeding the grid. We expect to bring another unit back overnight (Sunday) and the fifth by Wednesday this week.

Small Thermal Stations

These stations are situated in Bulawayo, Harare and Munyati. Our major constraint in maintaining modest outputs from these stations continues to be the availability of coal from our three suppliers. All three suppliers assure us that their production will improve over the next two months. Should this not be the case we will have to consolidate and probably run only two of the three stations.

In the middle of this week NRZ went on strike. I must commend our management team and coal suppliers for their rapid response to this event. They mobilised over 40 trucks to haul the coal that was to move by rail.

The next 12 months

Major retrofitting and component replacement projects will continue over the next 12 months. WAPCOS (the Indian company that provides expert advice at Hwange) have provided an experienced project manager to help oversee these projects at Hwange. To execute these projects there will be extended planned outages of units on a sequential basis during the year ahead. For example the precipitators (ash handling) on Phase Two will be retrofitted over the next seven months therefore from the middle of October until May 2012 and one of the Phase two Units will be offline.

At Kariba the system that governs the turbine blades, in sympathy to the power demand, will be replaced on each unit (six weeks per unit) on a sequential schedule. This means that from mid-December until September 2012 only five of the six units will be online.

In addition, over the next 12 months, other units will need to be taken off line for shorter periods to undertake unit specific upgrades or repairs. There will also be the exogenous breakdowns.

So in summary the power supply regime will for the next 12 months will be much the same as it has been for the last 12 months – all in a bid to stabilise and optimise supplies in the medium term.

The refurbishment of the 40km pipeline from the Zambezi to the Hwange station remains a priority and is a one year project. The feasibility study was completed over two months ago and we await the outcome of possible of government-to-government funding with the government of India.

The Tariff

I wish to thank all stakeholders for their understanding on the need for a revised tariff after two and a half years of stagnation. The power woes of today are largely attributable to many years of suppressed earnings by this power utility. To have continued this trend would surely have led us into total darkness.

Sadly this increase in tariff as of 1st October will not translate into immediate improvements in the availability of power. Lead times for retrofitting projects can be many months.

Of equal importance is the positive message that this sends to investors: “Zimbabweans are prepared to pay for their power.” I urge all of you to take personal responsibility for your power usage. There seems to be a misapprehension that load shedding automatically results in a dramatic reduction in your power usage and hence cost. This will not be the case if you do not manage your consumption. While you sleep the power comes back on and heats geysers, runs fridges and pumps etc.

Board

The board of ZPC remains committed to its responsibilities for the company whose performance is critical to the economy of this country. We see our role as more than one of oversight and governance. We therefore spend time in mentorship roles as well as bringing our diverse skill-sets and experience to bear at an operational level when the situation demands. Arriving at solutions to the complex challenges that have been imposed on the company over the years (lack of investment in new capacity, foregone maintenance of existing infrastructure etc.) requires a team effort.

We have commissioned the “Institute of Directors Zimbabwe” to undertake a performance review of the ZPC board.

In Closing

I hope reading this statement improves your understanding of recent events and the challenges that all of us will face in the medium term – until additional generation capacity is installed.

It is essential that we find ways to hold dialogue across all walks of life on this key economic driver and household resource.

R. Maasdorp

Chairman ZPC

Death Notice : DON EDGERTON

2011-10-18T00:15:00.000-07:00

Peacefully on 21st September 2011 in the presence of his beloved wife and family Don eventually succumbed to leukemia. A long standing member of Royal Harare and respected member of the business community Don bravely fought his cancer over the past four years and always remained positive. A memorial service is planned and will be held in due course. John Davidson
Tel/Fax: +263 (4) 744331
Mobile: +263 (0772) 125990
skype: shumbaman