Digging diamonds. Encountering golf-course crocodiles. Spotting Caterpillar construction equipment overseas.
Those were among reflections on a South Africa tour by Don Catchpole of North Aurora March 19, in St. Charles. With words and original photos, the guest speaker at the Kane County Association for Home and Community Education (KCAHCE) meeting at the U. of I. Extension office.
After a business meeting and lunch, Catchpole was introduced by Naomi Redman, KCAHCE president. His presentation, “South Africa Experience,” was part of an annual International Day celebration. The event highlights a KCAHCE yearlong country study that focuses on culture, food and government through presentations, displays, and cuisine tastings.
Catchpole said he was among eight family members who toured South Africa for 18 days in February 1994. The group’s itinerary included Johannesburg, Cape Town, Hermanus, Durban, Zululand in East Transvaal, and Bohputatswana.
The former heat-treating company owner, and avid golfer, said the country boasts fine golf courses. To reach one green, he had to bypass about 30 live crocodiles, Catchpole recalled.
Other highlights he mentioned included unearthing diamonds at a mine, observing numerous Caterpillar earthmoving equipment, and visits to Kirstenbosch botanical garden in Capetown and a maritime museum in Durban.
In addition to the Kennedy Unit meeting sponsor, other KCAHCE units represented were St. Charles, Hampshire, Plato Center, and Country Cousins.
The group’s next meeting will be an annual session Wednesday, May 21, at 10:30 a.m. at 535 S. Randall Road in St. Charles. Guest speaker will be William Pack on “Don’t Forget: The Science of Memory.” Lunch is $25.
KCAHCE, a nonprofit with approximately 80 members, enhances the lives of individuals and families through educational programs and experiences encouraging responsible leadership and community service. The group is open to the public. For more information, call 630-584-6166 or visit iahce.org/Kanecounty.html.
—Al Benson