Friends of the Parks - November


What is coming up in the parks?
Our next work party is in Purley Park on the 21 November and the last one of the year in Surrey on the 13 December – please add them to your  diary.

We are calling for donations towards the irrigation of the 3rd Ave side of Hampstead Park, it will make such a big difference to this park not to have this area turn into its normal summer dustbowl.

Our monthly market is still on the cards for our fund raising but it has been a nightmare of red tape – the final application is now in and we hope to be able to have our first market in time for Christmas – so far it is scheduled for 5 December.

Christmas Carols – will be in Purley Park this year  - date to follow October was a fun park month

We had the final voting and prize giving for the Harfield Gardening competition.  Well done to all the entrants for a wonderful show of gardening genius and to all the sponsors who gave so generously.
Princes park got a much needed day of TLC and the lovely bed under the thorn trees is coming along nicely.  So good to see all our Aloes and indigenous plants attracting the birds and butterflies.

Some great work has been done in the veg garden in Hampstead,  and the old wooden Hut was finally dismantled,  opening up a nice area at the back of the park – which is our safe zone for kids.

We had the table tennis try out and this project received some nice feedback from residents but we would have to work around the wind issue – this is Cape Town.  We are waiting for some final designs and quotes.

We met with Cllr Kempthorne to discuss making the two entrances of Hampstead on 3rd Ave a bit safer so that kids and dogs cannot run out into the busy street area and we looked at ways of creating off street parking and reducing the traffic grid lock on that side of the park– drawings are in
progress and we hope to see some  action shortly.

Friends of Harfield Parks

Renal Faliure in Cats

Is your cat drinking large amounts of water, has a dull coat is sleeping a lot and looks like a piece of biltong?!! Well it may have kidney failure.
Kidney failure (renal failure) is one of the most common diseases we see in middle to ageing cats, so this month we are going to explore the ins and
outs of this condition.

WHAT IS THE FUNCTION OF THE KIDNEY?           
In order to understand the seriousness of renal failure we need to look at the essential part the kidneys play in the maintenance of a healthy body.
The kidneys help to control your cat's blood pressure and remove toxic waste products from the body. The kidney is the body's filtration system. Each kidney contains hundreds of thousands of tiny filtration units called 'nephrons'. Nephrons are responsible for removing unwanted waste products
from the blood. After leaving the kidneys, about 95% of the total fluid volume of blood filtered (ie: clean blood) returns to the circulatory system, while the remaining 5%, containing waste products, is passed as urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

HOW DOES IT ALL GO WRONG?
When something happens to disrupt the complex filtration system of the kidneys, toxic waste begins to build up in the cat's blood stream. A disruption in the balance of waste, minerals and electrolytes such as urea, potassium and sodium in the blood stream can have a serious effect on the
normal functioning of other vital organs.
Unfortunately, the kidneys are vulnerable to many disorders that can lead to feline renal dysfunction, particular when a cat reaches middle age.

The most common causes are:
* genetic predisposition - breed predisposition
* acquired renal dysfunction

Most cases presented in practice have what is termed acquired renal failure. This is broken down into two stages:
* Acute renal failure
* Chronic renal failure

Acute Renal Failure
As the name suggests acute renal failure has a relatively sudden onset with the owner becoming aware of symptoms quickly.

Acute renal failure is usually caused by some kind of blockage that either:
* interferes with the blood flow to the kidneys
* interferes with the flow of urine from it.

It is also possible for a cat to develop acute renal failure if it has eaten something that is toxic such as certain pesticides or cleaning fluids but as cats are usually discerning eaters so this is rare. The inappropriate administration of human medications, particularly ibuprofen, can cause severe, acute renal failure.
 
Chronic Renal Failure
Chronic renal failure usually occurs in older cats and the onset is much longer over months, even years. Renal failure is classified as chronic when 75% of the kidney tissue has been destroyed and replaced with scar tissue.

The cause of chronic renal failure is unclear. However, it is thought that it is a natural progression for many common conditions including:
* advanced dental disease
* kidney infections
* obstructions (i.e.: blocked bladder)
 
What are the symptoms of Kidney Failure?
The most common symptom that you will see is excessive water drinking and urinating. Your cat may begin lose its appetite and lose weight, become dehydrated and or have bouts of vomiting. If you suspect something is abnormal - take your cat for a check up.
 
What will your vet do?
The first thing your Vet will probably do is run a series of blood and urine tests. This really is the only way to determine how efficiently the kidneys are working. Your vet may do the tests in the practice or may have to send the samples off to an outside lab. The blood tests will show what
percentages of waste products are circulating in the blood. The urine tests, among other things, will determine how well the kidneys are able to concentrate the urine. Your vet may need to take x rays or do an ultra sound examination. With the results of these tests your vet will be able to establish the extent of the kidney damage and form a treatment plan.
 
How will my vet treat my cat?
The first thing your vet will probably do is to put your cat on a drip. In acute and chronic renal failure it is important to try to correct the fluid and electrolyte balance as quickly as possible.
In acute renal failure, if possible, your vet will try to establish the cause of the renal failure and will treat your cat accordingly. When diagnosed and treated early cats with acute renal failure have a good
prognosis and should be able to recover fully.
Cats suffering from chronic renal failure will never recover from the loss of renal function. Treatment is usually palliative and aimed at maintaining a good quality of life for the cat for as long as possible.
It is important to adjust your cat's diet in order to help reduce the work load of the kidney and your vet may well suggest the use of prescription diets specifically formulated for cats suffering from  renal failure. These diets are an excellent addition to the treatment plan. If you have any concerns regarding your cat's health make an appointment with your Vet!

- Article by Kenilworth Vet

WHAT YOU DIDN'T KNOW WAS PART OF THAT LEASE AGREEMENT

In an effort to protect the rights of tenants, the Rental Housing Act lists certain provisions that are deemed to be included in each and every rental agreement of residential accommodation. Whether you are a landlord or tenant, or your lease agreement is in writing or was concluded orally, the
deemed provisions are applicable to the agreement. It does not matter that the landlord and tenant did not specifically negotiate these terms.

The deemed provisions are found in section 5(3) of the Act. In the below bullet points, we highlight the most important of these:

· The landlord is required to furnish the tenant with a written receipt for all payments received from the tenant. The receipt must show the date, address of the rented premises and what the payment was for, such as arrears, monthly rental, and so forth.

· If the agreement provides for the payment of a deposit, the landlord must invest it in an interest-bearing account with a financial institution. At the end of the lease period, the landlord must pay the
interest (and deposit) to the Tenant, or the balance thereof, if repairs for damages were required. The interest rate applicable to the deposit must at least be equal to the rate offered by the relevant financial institution on a savings account. If the landlord uses the services of an estate or rental
agent to manage the lease, then the deposit may be paid to the agent who will, in turn, invest it in an appropriate interest bearing account, as provided for in the Estate Agency Affairs Act.

· In addition, if the tenant requests written proof of the interest that had accrued on the deposit during the lease, the landlord must oblige.

· The deposit (plus interest) must be returned to the tenant within 7 days of the expiry of the lease. If all or part of the deposit was used to pay for repairs of damage caused by the tenant, the balance must be returned to the tenant within 14 days after the repairs were effected. In the latter case, the relevant receipts to indicate the costs incurred, must be available to the tenant for inspection.

· The tenant and landlord (or their agents) must jointly, before the tenant moves into the premises and also before he moves out, inspect the dwelling to ascertain the existence or not of any defects or damage.

· If the landlord (or his agent) fails to inspect the dwelling in the presence of the tenant as required, he is deemed to acknowledge that the dwelling is in a good and proper state of repair. The landlord thus risks losing a claim against the tenant for damages.

The list we provided above is not exhaustive and section 5 of the Act catalogues further deemed provisions. Certain changes to these deemed provisions may soon become effective, as the Rental Housing Amendment Act was promulgated recently. Property practitioners are awaiting the
publication in the Government Gazette of the date on which the amendment Act will become operational.

STBB Claremont
For assistance with lease matters, contact us on info@stbb.co.za or at
www.stbb.co.za             

Health Food Myths

1. Eggs are unhealthy

Egg yolks contain a significant amount cholesterol and have for years been deemed to be unhealthy. What studies have shown is that it is not the
cholesterol we eat that affects our blood cholesterol, but the foods that the body uses to make cholesterol (i.e. saturated, trans-fat and refined carbohydrates). The current guideline is 6 eggs per week, either one a day or 2 every second day.

2. Carbohydrates make you fat

It is not just one nutrient, but overindulgence of ANY nutrient that can make you fat. It is true that the sugary, refined carbohydrate rich foods are unhealthy for our body and may cause weight gain, but only because they cause unstable blood sugar levels, often cause cravings, and this generally leads to overindulgence. Carbohydrates such as dairy (milk and yoghurt), fruit, legumes, starchy veg as well as some grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats are a healthy addition to meals. But remember that for best control of blood sugars it is best to add lean protein and healthy fat with the carbohydrates.

3. Potatoes are unhealthy

Potatoes are a good source of fibre, potassium and vitamin C, but they have been given a bad rep because they are white and are a high GI food (raises the blood sugar level quickly). The potato is also a food that many people overindulge in, especially when it has been prepared in an unhealthy way. Roast potatoes, slap chips, crisps are definitely an unhealthy choice, but a medium sized baked potato added to your meal of protein and veggies is a perfectly healthy choice (and the 'meal' is not high GI because of the protein and veggies).

4. Fruit is unhealthy because it contains too much sugar

It is true that fruit contains sugar, but this does not make it an unhealthy food choice. Firstly, the sugar is fructose rather than sucrose (you want to try to avoid added sucrose and specifically limit foods that are high in this added sugar, such as sweets, biscuits, chocolates and fizzy drinks).
As well as containing sugar, fruits are also a good source of vitamins, minerals and fibre, so if you eat fruit you are getting healthy energy as well as other goodness. Fruit are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but remember portion is important. You should not overeat on any food, healthy or unhealthy!

5. Certain foods can burn fat and make you lose weight quickly

People often believe that foods like grapefruit, celery or cabbage soup willhelp them lose weight. These are healthy foods which you could definitely incorporate into your daily diet, but they don't contain any magic ingredients that 'burns' fat and helps you to lose weight.

6. Frozen vegetables are not as healthy as the fresh ones

Frozen vegetables are just as nutritious. This is because they are picked and packaged at their peak, which is when the nutrient levels are the highest. Fresh produce has often started losing some of its nutrients along the pathway from picking to buying. Frozen vegetables are also very convenient, allowing you to have vegetables available at all times.

7. Calories eaten at night are more fattening

Calories are calories, whether eaten at night or during the day. However, I have found that when people eat too little during the day the tendency is to eat too much at night, leading to weight gain because of the overindulgence. Bottom line is you can eat a good supper meal (with healthy carbs), just don't overindulge!

Kim Hofmann
56 1ST AVENUE
021-674-4666
kimh.rd(at)mweb.co.za

News from the HVCID

Dear Residents,

For those of you who have not yet signed up, and are questioning the effectiveness of this initiative, please remember that the 2 patrol vehicles and funding are only a starting point. And in order to increase the security we really need community buy in. The more people who sign up with
ADT, the more the neighbourhood will benefit. And the goal posts are getting closer.


CAMERAS:
We have just been informed that ADT is willing to supply and install two LPR (License Plate Recognition) cameras in the village if we can get 60 new people to sign up for the R399 option. This is amazing news! These cameras are expensive and we are unlikely to buy them on our own without the support of a big company like ADT. Let's make good use of their resources.

Please spread the word and encourage your neighbours and friends in the Village to sign up. You can do so by completing this online form:
www.hvcid.co.za/adt-sign-up/. And if you have any questions, please send them to admin@hvcid.co.za

CRIME REPORT: (please note we are not allowed to report specifics)

Below is only as reported by ADT (2 - 9 Nov):
- House break and Theft - Third Avenue

HVCID-ADT PATROL CARS (2 - 9 Nov):
The two dedicated vehicles for the HVCID have either D19 or D20 on the back of the vehicle.
Mileage per vehicle: D19: 2378; D20: 2281.
Call outs per vehicle: D19: 32; D20: 133.

False Alarms: 144 Incidents (Increase)
Over Active Alarms (4 +): Dungannon, Hereford, Imam Haron, Princes, Princes
Sq, Roseville, Rutland, Surrey, Wade.

Please test your alarms regularly. And notify your Security Provider beforehand.
Also, if you have an entry/exit delay on your alarm, try to keep the delay time as short as possible. If someone was to break in through your entrance door they have the advantage of your delay time before your alarm is triggered. Every second counts.

PLEASE NOTE:

You can find additional information about needing proof of address for vehicle licence disc renewals here: http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/Pages/Proofaddressrequiredvehiclelicencediscrenewals.aspx
This article also mentions this: "In addition, the City wishes to inform motorists whose vehicle licence discs will expire on 30 November 2015 and are renewable by 22 December 2015 and whose discs expire on 31 December 2015 and are renewable by 22 January 2016, that they will not be receiving renewal notices."

So please check the expiry date on your licence disc.

And well done to Gail Brown and the Friends of Harfield Parks who work tirelessly around the village. And in this example at Claremont police station. You can read more about it here:
http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/Local/Peoples-Post/Locals-tackle-station-2
0151109 And please, if you can, do assist Gail and the FOHP to improve our police station.

IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS:
ADT Emergency: 086 1212 301
Police (National): 10111
Police (Claremont): 021 657 2250
Police Sector 1 (Harfield & Lynfrae) vehicle: 082 378 9449
Police Sector 1 Manager - W.O. Colin Geneke: 079 894 1555
HVCID Manager: 081 412 6109 / admin@hvcid.co.za
HarLyn neighbourhood watch: 071 802 2454
City of Cape Town Emergency services (When life or property is endangered by
fire, accidents and natural disasters etc.): From mobile: 021 480 7700; From
landline: 107
Metro police & Traffic: 0860 765 423

Stay Safe!

Kind regards, The HVCID team

081 412 6109 / admin@hvcid.co.za
In an emergency call ADT on 086 1212 301

Holiday hints for A happy and healthy hound (and a contented cat)

Those of us with pets, go into the holiday season with some trepidation.
Some of us will leave our beloved pets behind while others choose to travel with them. Here are a few hints to make sure that the Holidays remain a joyful time and not turn into a nightmare for everyone, including your pets:

For those who stay behind:

If they are going to a kennel, make sure it is a reputable kennel and that dogs get exercise time and cats a place to play. Cages need to be of a sufficient size and clean. Also make sure that your animal is a welcome customer (i.e. some kennels don't take animals requiring medicine) Take along your pets favourite toys and blanket to make them feel at home. For those who stay at home make sure that a trustworthy, responsible person is looking after them and not the neighbour's kid who screams every time Bubbles try to lick her hand. Remember that this person needs to be responsible enough to take them to the vet should something go wrong.

Ensure your pet is healthy, vaccinated and treated for parasites beforehand.
The last thing you want is to get a phone call to say that Kitsy's got snuffles or that Bruno got billiary two days into your holiday. Make sure that any medical or feeding requirements as well as other
idiosyncrasies (i.e. Rover will try to run into the street every time somebody opens the gate or Whiskers only drink water from a dripping tap) is known to the caretaker or the kennel manager. Be sure to leave the details of your vet with your house sitter or the kennel manager. Don't forget to
leave your own contact details too.

Make sure you pets have either been micro chipped, or wearing a collar and tag, even if just while you are away. Very often dogs escape when owners are gone due to a stranger being in the house. Gates are accidentally left open frequently so it can happen to anyone.

For those who travel:

Start off slow: make sure they are used to travel beforehand by slowly making regular car trips and that they are used to being restrained (i.e. you don't want to have Katy screaming from here to your destination because she's not used to the cat-box).
Make sure they can travel safely i.e. leads, collars with name and contact number. If your animal is not used to travelling then a crate or travelling box is advised. This is so that you can drive safely and in case of an accident, your animal is safe.

Always take a water and food on your journey. You never know when your car will break down between Nowhere and Nothing. Take-away snacks, and anything that is not their usual food, might lead to an "Oops" on your back seat, so rather avoid it by feeding the normal amount at the normal time of their usual food.

Make sure to pack your pets medicine with your own and that way you will never accidentally leave it behind. Never leave your animals unattended in you car. They overheat very easily.
If you stop, park in a shade, and take them for a toilet break and a drink of water. This helps them normalize their temperature and you also get to relax even if it is for a short break.
If there is a chance of your pet turning green every time the car moves make sure to get something for motion sickness from your vet beforehand. There is many products on the market and you vet will know what works. Also you will need extra for the return trip.
Please bear in mind, you are going to new places, so be aware of unexpected dangers i.e. undiscovered rubbish bins, cats and dogs getting lost, busy roads etc.

Animal Rescue Organisation
www.animalrescue.org.za

PORK FILLETS

INGREDIENTS
750g pork fillets
100 mls water
200 mls apple juice
1 pkt brown onion soup


METHOD
Cut up pork fillets.
Mix soup with liquid.
Add all together in microwavable dish.
Microwave at 70% power for 10 minutes.
Stir then microwave on 100% power for a further 4 minutes.

Serve with rice or potatoes and some vegetables.


"I have been an agent for over 30 years and have an excellent track record in the Southern Suburbs area. I am professional, love what I do and put my heart and soul into every aspect of my work."

Lyn Staples
Estate Agent
Cell: +27 (0)82 846 0739 | Office: +27 (0)21 674 1120 | Fax: +27 (0)21 774 4927
Email:lyn@norgarbproperties.co.za
Focus Areas: Kenilworth & Claremont Village

What to plant in November

The days are warming up and things are thriving in the garden this November.
It's a good time to try to grow pretty much anything you can get your hands on!

Plant List:

Amaranth, Basil, Bush/Climbing Beans, Beetroot, Broccoli, Butternut, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Carrot, Chard/Spinach, Cape Gooseberry, Chinese Cabbage, Celery, Chives, Chilli, Cucumber, Eggplant, Kale, Kohlrabi, Ginger, Globe Artichoke, Leek, Leaf Mustard, Lettuce, Jerusalem Artichoke, Parsnip, Parsley, Potato, Pumpkin, Radish, Rhubarb, Sweetcorn, Sweet Pepper, Sweet Potato, Turnip, Tomato, Watercress, Watermelon, Zuchini.

Planting tips:

This summer, if there is one new gardening practice to adopt if you haven't already, let it be MULCHING. For those who don't know, this is where you cover all the visible soil in your garden with leaves/bark/wood chips/straw/plant matter, enough so that you can't see the soil beneath.
Mulching has many benefits: It retains moisture, which is going to be vitally important this summer to help keep the soil moist and plants nourished, it prevents the soil from burning and thus preserves the organic matter and life in the soil and it provides extra nutrients to the plants while building the soil at the same time. I will leave you with this thought: Would you stand outside in the sun in one position all day naked without water, sun cream, clothes or shade? I didn't think so. The soil is
similar to our skin in a way, in the sense that the top layer protects what is beneath and is exposed to the elements - it can be burnt by the sun, and when soil burns, the life/organic in the top layer dies, which negatively impacts any plants rooted into it. So as we come into hotter summer days,
when you look around and see exposed earth in your garden and around Harfield, imagine the soil was your skin, and go cover it up with some leaves.

Best,
Gabriella

Patchwork Business Listing on the Harfield Village Website
Patchwork Facebook Group