Long-service awards for Independent staff

A TOTAL of 23 staff members of Independent Media in the city received long-service awards for 15 to 45 years yesterday.

Two of the recipients, Dan Simon and Lesley Byram, served the Cape Times.

Aneez Salie, editor of the Cape Times, said: “We warmly congratulate Simon and Byram on their long- service awards of a quarter of a century each. What a fine achievement of almost a working lifetime.”

He praised their dedication and service to the newspaper industry.

“With their considerable contribution we’ve transformed from typewriters and hot metal printing to today’s online, digital era and smart cellphones.

“Lesley and Dan have taken all of this in their stride to deliver a service second to none.”

The 23 staff members received their awards at a luncheon in the city, while simultaneous functions were held at Independent Media regions around the country.

In Cape Town, five employees were recognised for 15 years of service, 11 for 25 years, five for 35 years and two for 45 years – this in an industry that has seen widespread retrenchments among competitors.

Tommy Moodley, from Retail Advertising, and Clive Isaacs, from Allied Media, received awards for 45 years service.

Senior layout sub-editor Simon said he felt honoured to be recognised for his 25 years of service.

Most noticeable in this time at the company had been the improvements in technology.

“I started here when there were no telephones and computers. When I was out in the field covering a story, I had to go to a shop and ask the owner to call the office. Then the office would call back and I would brief them over the phone.”

He said remarkable moments included countless friendships he had formed over the years. “I made many friends here.”

Byram, now Independent Media marketing co-ordinator, served in the Cape Times editorial department for 24 years. She was the news editor’s assistant for nine years before becoming the personal assistant to the editor for 15 years.