RECENT EVENTS

The end-of-year Spit Braai, held at the home of Stephen and Pat Flesch on Sunday 28 November was, as always, a huge success. The lamb on the spit was done to perfection by Leon, and this was accompanied by an array of delicious and imaginative salads provided by various Slow members. It was followed by equally delicious meringues, Nice ice cream and mince pies, which left everyone feeling very happy and replete. As a result of our raffle, we were able to donate R3 300 to the Goedgedacht Trust.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Saturday 11 December:
Terra Madre Day Market, 10am to 5pm at the Oude Molen Eco-Village, Alexandra Str. Pinelands (next to Vincent Palotti Hospital).
 
Friday 10 December:
Launch of a special book at Kalk Bay Books
Seed to Table is the cookbook that grew out of a relationship between three farmers of Abalimi Bezekhaya - Nomzamo Gertrude Cuba, Vatiswa Dunjana and Nomkhita Gertrude Sotsonga - and three Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholars - Erin Koepke, Abby Elsener and Toni Marraccini.
  
Abalimi Bezekhaya - the farmers of home - is a voluntary organisation working with individuals, groups and community-based organisations to achieve food security, either through home or community gardens. Eleven micro-farmers, most of whom are women, are the backbone of Abalimi.
  
Referred to as the 'field team', these micro-farmers run their own plots either at home or in community gardens. The members were recruited to lead the development of the micro-farming movement in the townships. Each year, 3000 farmers receive support from Abalimi in the form of cheap bulk resources, education, training and skills development.
 
Now, a happy confluence of people has seen the publication of a wonderful cookbook, filled with the food, the stories and the inspiration of all involved. We are delighted to be able to play our part by hosting the launch of Seed to Table.
 
All proceeds from the sale of the book at the launch will be donated back to Abalimi Bezekhaya to help them continue to plant seeds of hope.
 
Where: Kalk Bay Books, 124 Main Road, Kalk Bay
Time: 6 for 6.30pm
RSVP: 9 December at Kalk Bay Books books@kalkbaybooks.co.za or 021 788 2266

INDONESIAN DELICACIES AND CRAFTS

The recent Merapi eruption in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, has caused damage throughout the area, leaving hundreds hungry, ill and homeless. So together, the Indonesian Consulate and Indonesian Community in Cape Town have all put in their time and effort to help those in need.
 

 
 
THUNDERCHILD
An appeal from Myrna Robins, founder member of Slow Food Cape Town
 
She says: I can tell you this is most enjoyable wine, 100% of proceeds of sales goes to the cause, and the home is doing amazing work. If someone is looking for good red wine with potential for gifts, this is recommended.
 
Background story
 

Not many wines are made and sold in aid of needy children, but unusual circumstances have produced a top-notch red blend that offers affordable pleasure now and considerable future potential.   In 1918, the little town of Robertson was, like many others, left with destitute orphans in the wake of the Great Flu Epidemic. A home, Die Herberg, was started in a private house, and, as the number of children increased, moved to new quarters when the municipality donated several hectares to the cause. A neglected apricot orchard occupied much of the site.

  
Today, the Herberg cares for just over 120 children of all races, from birth to 18 years of age, in seven homesteads. State grants cover one-third of the costs so fund-raising is essential and ongoing. Local wine farmers, eyeing the fertile soil, offered to replace the orchard with a vineyard that could become a source of income through fine wine. Local businesses provided equipment and products, farmers provided vines and expertise and three red cultivars were planted in 2002.
 
It fell to Springfield to tend the vines and make the maiden blend of cab franc, cab and merlot. The uncrushed berries were fermented with native yeasts, matured in French oak, and were bottled sans fining or filtration. The 2008 blend, named Thunderchild , is fresh and elegant, with juicy fruit and firm tannins leading to a delicious savoury finish. It offers immediate pleasure but is certain to age beautifully.
 
When the Herberg marks its centenary in 10 years time, Thunderchild is likely to have reached its peak, in time to toast 100 years of caring. It costs R65, all the profit goes to the home, and a better gift would be difficult to find. For more information and Cape Town deliveries, telephone 023 626 3661 or email info@thunderchild.co.za.