NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS - The village of Nieu-Bethesda is slowly becoming busier as tourists start to trickle in either on their way to the coast or, as is becoming more prevalent, using the village itself as a destination.
This week saw some outstanding events taking place in the village - residents and visitors have been spoiled for choice.
Auntie Evelyn's Sopkombuis treated village children to a hearty meal, treats and games up in Sonderwaterstraat. This annual event bears testament to Evelyn and her teams' generous nature.
The needs of the less fortunate children in the village are front of mind, and visitors to her quaint restaurant often donate to this worthy cause.
The Nieu-Bethesda Sports Club held their annual Christmas Meal last Sunday and it was certainly one to be remembered.
This year, a bring and share luncheon was the order of the day, and club members were encouraged to 'bring a gift you did not buy', to swop with one another.
The club was beautifully decorated by farming volunteer, Lelani from Brazil working on 'The Rest'. It was wonderful to see small saplings being swopped for once loved recipe books or used toys for a well-loved cap. A fitting way to make a change in our attitude of consumerism around Christmas. Musician Albert Frost treated a good number of lucky folk to a brilliant show at the newest restaurant/pub in town, 'The Nieu-Karoo'. Graaff-Reinetter, DJ van Wyk was among those who were privileged to witness this talented singer/guitarist's brilliant work where he said that he was "Weggeblaas deur Albert Frost en sy kitaarkunsies".
It is remarkable how often in Nieu-Bethesda, one finds oneself in a very small crowd, in the presence of true talent and greatness.
The Nieu-Bethesda Watch has been extremely active, meeting at late hours over a cup of coffee before heading off in different directions to patrol the village into the early hours of the morning. These random patrols have definitely made an impact in petty crime in the village and are a testament to the impact that villagers working together can make.
On Sunday evening, the annual carol service took place in the beautiful NG Kerk.
The theme this year, led by Ds Ingrid Bischoff, concentrated on the gift of the baby Jesus at this special time. The church was beautifully decorated by Jacquie Olivier, the service organised by Nelda Pienaar, and the antique gas lamps lit by Peet van Heerden.
Phillip Olifant's choir, which has grown hugely over the years, was exquisitely performed and brought tears to many an eye. The community felt the loss of Arno du Toit who passed away this year, and Bethesda's '3 tenors' were reduced to two powerful voices - Sakkie Retief and Boetie Pienaar. Father-daughter duo, Martin and Emma Haines sang a beautiful accapella version of 'Oh Holy Night'.
Another item consisted of Adelene Nel on the organ, Charl du Toit on violin accompanied by the voice of Sanet Brink. This annual carol service is another Nieu-Bethesda tradition that makes this village such a unique, family centered, community orientated place. And the holidays have only just begun! Graaff-Reineters would do well to take a drive out to Bethesda this festive season. - the village has a lovely variety of coffee-shops, the Padstal and restaurants, bookshops and craft shops, the Owl House, Bushman Heritage Museum and Fossil Centre, picnic sites and donkey cart rides.
In the following weeks the town also offers Gregg Price's exhibition, "Heart of Mine" to look forward to on 15 December, 'The Leather be Light' tour hosted by Outsiders on 20 December and the Festival of Lights hosted by the Bethesda Art Centre on New Year's Eve. Take a trip to Nieu-Bethesda - there is so much to see and do.
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