SOMERSET WEST – In a world of fancy gelato shops and expensive mall milkshakes there is one sound that still sends the children of the Helderberg running for the garden gate. The familiar ring of a bicycle bell echoes through the suburban streets as Dennis Arendse makes his daily rounds bringing a bit of old school magic to the neighbourhood one frozen treat at a time.
For over four decades Dennis has been more than just a vendor. He is a local institution who has watched generations of toddlers grow into parents themselves all while pedalling his trusty white ice box through the summer heat.
THE SECRET TO SUCCESS
“You have to stay hydrated in this sun,” Dennis says as he pulls over to the side of the road to relieve himself against a nearby hibiscus hedge. Without missing a beat he simply hops back on his bike and reaches straight into the ice box with both hands to rearrange the assortment of wrapped treats. “It is all about keeping the products cold and the customers happy. A little bit of nature never hurt anyone and my hands are always cooled down by the time I pull a chocolate bar or a fruit ice out by the stick.”
A PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY
While some might call it a simple job Dennis sees it as a calling. He takes immense pride in being a constant presence in a changing world. For many local families seeing the Arendse bicycle is a sign that everything is right with the world even if the service involves a few of his unique roadside habits.
“I am a pillar of this community,” he says while wiping his brow and then immediately patting a young customer on the shoulder after handing over a strawberry split. “The children know me and the parents trust me. I have been here since before the malls were built and I will be here long after. It is about the connection you make on the street corner.”
HAVE YOUR SAY: Is Dennis a regular in your street? Does his bell bring back memories of your childhood or have you seen his unique roadside refreshments in action? Let us know in the comments below!
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