Aberdeen’s February 2010 Garden Club Swells In Membership

A sudden influx of new members bodes well for the Aberdeen Garden Club. The first meeting of the year 4th February 2010 was hosted by Meredith and Colin Kraut in their beautiful Aberdeen garden. Although Meredith and Colin have been living in the Karoo for just a year, their garden gives the appearance of having been a cultivated retreat for a much longer period of time.
David Miller explained to the club members, that with the expert assistance and structural gardening knowledge of Dan Louw of ‘Springfield’ in Aberdeen, Meredith’s garden has become a garden of destiny in growth or “a promise around every corner”. He congratulated them all on the work done, and thanked Colin and Meredith for being such gracious hosts.
This shady garden has magnificent old fruit bearing trees growing alongside newer ones. Succulents, cacti, rosemary bushes, roses, grape vines and a large covered vegetable garden are just a few of this garden’s treasures. A covered awning sheltering guests from the Karoo sun, bird feeders and bird baths under shady trees, along with large owl structures make this garden interesting and welcoming. Jadre Lategan thanked all those present on behalf of the committee for their assistance during the previous year, and their contributions to Alwynhof. Denise Weldon kindly gave a spiritual thought for the day.

Mr Braam Basson of the Forestry Department gave an interesting insight into alien plants, declared weeds, and invaders, some of which are difficult to eradicate. Some of these alien plants are poisonous and many are found in disturbed areas. Mr Basson presented each member with a catalogue showing clear pictures and descriptions of alien and invasive plants as a guide line to identify them. A list of common alien weeds and invasive plants found in the Karoo was also presented and discussed. A complete guide to all declared weeds and invaders in South Africa has been written as a handbook by Lesley Henderson.

Article By: Joan Tinker

A.B.E.T. & Hospice Embark On First Program In Aberdeen

On Tuesday 2nd February A.B.E.T. embarked on the first of its many programs for 2010 to expose learners to issues that they may encounter in their daily lives. Hospice trained nursing sisters and care givers were invited to discuss and enlighten those attending, in disease prevention and management at the Kamdebo Primary School in Aberdeen. The sensitive issues of cancer, HIV Aids and STD's were explained, and questions were answered with knowledge and foresight. These adults, presently studying in the A.B.E.T. course of basic development in reading, writing and numerical skills, were given an in depth lecture by Edith Joseph of Graaff-Reinet Hospice. Sister Jeanette Hartney also from Graaff-Reinet was invaluable in answering medical questions.
Cancer, which can be a prolific invader of all regions of the body, was profiled by Edith Joseph, who said that discomfort, pain, and weight loss are just a few of the symptoms of which people should be aware. Checking on ones own body can be done regularly as Edith Joseph detailed, assisting the possibility of an early discovery of the disease. Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment were explained, and the most important item regarding cancer, was a way of curbing the disease.
The prevention and treatment of H.I.V. AIDS and STD's were dealt with as very serious issues.
Edith Joseph’s message on clinics was clear: This is where people must go if there is any suspicion of illness. Consultations are free, and patients needing a doctor’s attention will be referred to a doctor, who will prescribe medication and supplements if necessary.
Clinic staff will always refer patients needing Hospice care to the local Hospice centre. This will be done with an official form, and relatives who might need counseling, will also be assisted by Hospice Staff who are trained in health education, family motivation, and care of the frail and terminally ill.
Hospice is a non-governmental organization who depends on Social Development and sponsorship to support the costs of maintaining this magnificent assistance they give to the community. Aberdeen presently has 4 Hospice trained staff who work out of Thembalisizwe.
Graaff-Reinet Hospice visits Hospice institutions in Aberdeen, Nieu-Bethesda, Jansenville and Klipplaat once a month, giving advice, supplying controlled medication and supplements.
A.B.E.T. continues with this meaningful work of bringing basic education and now different life issues to the community. Computer workshops have also been introduced.
Esteline de Jager can be contacted at 073 568 7302 if people in the local communities of Aberdeen, Lotusville and Thembalisizwe need to enter the basic skills program.

Article By: Joan Tinker