Umtamvuna Views: Music man Keith leaves a huge void

MUCH-LOVED musician Keith Carta Scullard, fondly known as South Africa’s very own Rodriguez,  died on Monday this week. Tributes have poured in on social media for Keith who will be remembered as a talented legend and his death will leave a huge void in the South African music industry.

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Keith, also known as the ‘voice for the animals’ had joined Terrence Olivier of Rainbow Warriors for their ‘Cold Fact Steri Walk’. Keith, an amputee. was pushed in a wheelchair to various venues along the route, where he sang. The drive was to raise funds to assist local shelters but also to encourage community members to have their animals sterilised.

“Sugarman I have known you for more than 30 years, heard you sing hundreds of times and have always been amazed at your drive to keep Rodriguez alive. You loved people and your passion to entertain always showed.

You leave a legacy as South Africa’s Rodriguez and with that you take a piece of everyone’s heart who had the privilege to hear your voice.” said Terrence.

Keith will be sorely missed by his partner Chantal Mitchley, her son Blane, and Keith’s daughter Leigh Anne Williams.

Rip-roaring roundup

Port Edward Primary held a rootin’ tootin’ inaugural fund-raising barn dance at Cascade Estate on Old Pont Road last Friday. Despite the downpour during the afternoon, the event was a great success.

School governing body chairman Douglas Powell sincerely thanks the fund-raising committee and all local businesses and individuals who donated generously and assisted in any way. More than 200 people attended and dined, danced and partied late into the night.

Report it

The newly-elected Port Edward and Banners Rest Ratepayers Association (PEBRRA) committee has been very busy with numerous initiatives to uplift Port Edward and surrounding areas. Association chairman Douglas Powell reported an alarming increase in illegal dumping on vacant properties across town. Mr Powell encourages residents and visitors to report any illegal dumping activity to the committee, as well as to make use of the recycling depot at the Port Edward Library. The committee has also requested a minimal contribution of R100 per household per year to assist PEBRRA carry out their service provision to the town.

Well done

Local dancers from Ruth Jakeman Dance Studio took part in the recent ‘Rise to Fame’ National Arts Competition held at the Wild Coast Sun Hotel and Casino Resort.

The competition was stiff, but the four girls Jenny Lewis, Taitum Borain, Rachael Fisher and Arabella Lewis performed exceptionally well. Rachael won the trophy for best solo performance and Arabella won the best open solo prize. Both Rachael and Arabella took the ‘Best overall dance’ prize for their tap duet.

Send your snippets

While Umtamvuna scribe Philippa Makepeace is enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime trip to India, all news can be sent to Lorraine Lawlor at lorrainel@dbn.caxton.co.za. Philippa will be back on April 21.

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