17 October 2018 by CXpress

17 October 2018

Published every Wednesday by CXpress 2006 (Pty) Ltd - PO Box 1449, Plettenberg Bay 6600 - 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay - Tel: 044 533 1004 - Fax: 044 533 0852 Email: editor@cxpress.co.za / advertising@cxpress.co.za Web page: www.cxpress.co.za Printed by Group Editors

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Head for your garden Wearing her floral crown with style and grace is Garden Day Ambassador professor Nox Makunga - a plant scientist at the Department of Botany and Zoology at the University of Stellenbosch. Turn to page 4 to see why your garden should be celebrated this Sunday.

Stand up, sit down! p2

N2 George detours p3

All eyes on tourism p5

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 October 2018

There’s an easy new way for over 60s to exercise: head to toe, standing and sitting A unique exercise programme is benefiting many folk in Knysna who have taken a new lease on life by adding mobility and strength, and they are just thrilled to be MOVING! OGALATES teacher Jennifer Everingham was challenged by the needs of her 60s-plus students in Knysna, many of whom wanted to exercise but without having to kneel or get down and up off a yoga mat. So she started teaching ‘Standing and Sitting’ exercise classes, which work out the body from head to toe. She explains: “Think of your body like you do your car, which needs regular servicing. A service requires checking, tuning, and oiling to ensure all the parts function and you can drive safely and smoothly, avoiding breakdowns and the heavy expenses that ensue. “Illnesses or falls require expensive medical treatment and often operations. Hippocrates said back in 400 BC: ‘That which is used, develops. That which is not used, wastes away. Our modern version is ‘Use it or lose it!’” she says. “Your body, like your car,

needs to perform to the optimum for as long as you own it. But unlike a car, you cannot just go and buy a new one; you need your body to perform adequately and painlessly to be independent for your entire lifespan, and that means paying regular attention to each body part.” Jennifer goes on to explain that the spine is a chain of joints - your axis. It needs the flexibility to bend forwards, backwards and sideways, and to twist. All your joints need to be mobile and supple. Joints only receive lubricating Synovial fluid through movement. Muscles have to be worked in all different ways to keep them toned and strong. The strength of the legs is particularly important as you age. Legs hold you up and keep you walking. Core strength gives you stability and supports the spine. Feet are the foundation on which the body stands and moves, so they must be flexible

WELL BALANCED: Jennifer Everingham has designed a way for senior students to exercise without the necessity to kneel or lie down

and strong, too. Your balance is important - the better you are at it, the less the likelihood of a fall. Tension is released through moving, stretching, and breathing. In particular, tension in the neck and shoulders needs releasing. Full, slow breathing enables the body to cleanse itself of impurities and assimilate energy and health.

“It is my mission to improve the quality of people’s lives through moving and breathing for health,” Jennifer concludes. “Who wants to live into their 90s without enjoying an independent lifestyle and a body that can function painlessly?” If you are interested in classes, see the advert on page 11 for Jennifer’s contact details.

Tai Chi melds body, mind, and spirit while recharging your energy YNAMIC balance workout or moving meditation - phrases often used to describe Tai Chi - is a martial art that promotes well-being through balanced posture and breathing. Explains Jennie Anderson of the International Tai Chi Society (ITCS) in Plett: “It relies on physical exercise, stretching and mindfulness. The low impact, weight-bearing aspect of Tai Chi Chuan activity has been shown to be beneficial for balance, fitness, bone density and flexibility. Regular practice reduces anx-

iety, lowers blood pressure and decreases inflammation, at the same time improving energy, stamina, breath support or aerobic capacity, and stability.” She adds that it doesn’t necessarily cure anything, but it does help healing by moving energy around your body, thus enhancing and protecting your health. “A vital element of Tai Chi Chuan training is breath. We don’t live to breathe, we breathe to live. The elements of quiet, even breathing and slow coordinated movements combine and

when practised regularly, improve general health, energy and mood levels as well as balance and coordination,” she explains. Quiet even breathing is an acid/ alkaline balancer and also the link between body and mind. In this way, vagal nerve function is improved and the body’s natural inflammatory response to stress, trauma and illness is modulated. “Physical balance enhances mental balance and energy balance, harmonising the way we interact with the world around us. Health is not just the absence

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of disease, but the presence of well-being,” says Jennie. She concludes with the words of Tai Chi Supreme Ultimate Wolfe Lowenthal: “When quiet, be like a mountain. When moving, be like water. When storing energy, be like the bow. When releasing energy, be like the arrow. Be alert like a hawk circling.” Please watch the press for details of the ITCS Plett Tai Chi Chuan workshop with Sifu Eddie Jardine on October 27, and call Jennie on 072 128 7424 for additional information.

Drommedaris Plettenberg Bay 1 Robberg Road 044 533 1456

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NEWS & VIEWS

17 October 2018

CXPRESS

Court hears hitman was offered big bucks in 2016 to kill Knysna councillor Following several postponements, the bail application of one of the men allegedly involved in the brutal murder of Knysna councillor Victor Molosi is nearing completion - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports ANDLA Tyololo, who is being charged with conspiracy to murder Victor Molosi, took his place in the dock in Knysna Magistrate’s Court last Wednesday for his bail application.

During the court proceedings it came to light that Tyololo allegedly offered a hitman R150,000 to kill Molosi in December 2016. The supposed hitman, whose affidavit was included

in a statement by the investigating officer in the case, detective Sergeant Barnard Wilson, however claimed that he had backed out of the plan and warned Molosi. The witness claimed that

‘False news’ of Bitou resignations nipped in the bud PON hearing word on Plett’s streets midMonday morning, claiming that Bitou’s municipal manager and chief financial officer had both handed in their resignations, CXPRESS directed a query to James Sijama, acting manager of Communications and Customer Care. He commented as follows: “I am aware of the

false rumours that are going around on social media, claiming that both the MM and CFO of Bitou Municipality have resigned. “These rumours are as bizarre as they are untrue, because both officials are still hard at work and will continue to work tirelessly every day to ensure residents get the services to which they are entitled

and which they so desperately need. “This false news is designed to create unnecessary chaos, but it will not distract the municipality from its core business.” Email jsijama@plett. gov.za or call 044 501 3006, and see the adverts on page 5 and 7 for additional notifications from Bitou Municipality.

Motorists take note of these upcoming George N2 traffic delays RAFFIC delays are expected in and around George from tomorrow, Thursday October 18, as the N2 will be closed or partly closed due to the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the national highway to link the communities of Thembalethu and Parkdene. George drivers and users of the N2 between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town can expect traffic diversions, crossovers between carriageways, and resultant traffic delays for the following eight weeks. Traffic will be moved from the detour to the crossover from October 19-22 so that when the beams are placed on the Eastbound Carriageway (EBC) towards Knysna on Monday the 22nd, two-way traffic will

apply on the Westbound Carriageway (WBC) towards Mossel Bay. A second detour through George will be required on the night of October 22, while the crossovers are switched to the EBC for use the next day to suit placement of beams over the WBC and more work on that side, which should take approximately three to four weeks. A third detour (date yet to be confirmed) will see traffic diverted for about 24 hours while the first crossovers are prepared again for two-way traffic flow, which will be used for about another three to four weeks while additional bridge work is being completed. According to the Sanralcontracted road engineers for the project, Aurecon,

safety requirements relating to the placing of beams over both carriageways necessitate partial or full closure of the N2 for hours or a day at a time, depending on the nature of the work being done. At least three days of detours and three crossover changes from one carriageway to another can be expected. Construction is weather-dependent, which may affect the implementation dates. During tomorrow’s first full closure, traffic will be diverted through the town of George. This will affect traffic in the town itself so road users should allow for extra travel time. Motorists can visit www. aurecongroup.com for additional information and relevant maps.

he did not accept the money. The matter was postponed to next Friday for a court decision on the application. Four men, including Knysna councillor Velile Waxa, 58, have been arrested for allegedly being involved in the murder of Molosi in July this year. Molosi, 50 - who was the councillor for Ward 8, which includes Concordia and Joodsekamp - was shot and killed on the night of July 23 after leaving Con-

cordia High School, where he had attended a school governing body meeting. According to police, while walking home from the meeting, a gunman approached him and fired several shots at Molosi with an unidentified firearm. A gunshot to the head was fatal. Molosi was not only a local councillor, but also the ANC chief whip in Knysna as well as the party’s Southern Cape deputy secretary.

The four men arrested in connection with the murder are Waxa, Knysna Taxi Forum secretary Tyololo, 39, Mawande Makhala, 42, and Vela Patrick Dumile, 37. Tyololo has been charged with conspiracy to murder while the rest have been charged with murder. Dumile, Makhala, and Waxa will appear in court again on Wednesday October 24 for proceedings to continue. They were all remanded in custody.

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 October 2018

Child victims of sexual assault suffer most as a result of unnecessary court delays Plettenberg Bay anti-child abuse activists have expressed frustration over what they have described as “endless delays” in the second court case against well-known George dentist, involving sex crimes against a child - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports N April this year, Ian Venter was convicted of sexually assaulting a then 12-year-old boy during a sleepover at his Herold’s Bay home on April 11, 2015. Venter was arrested by the George family violence and sexual offences unit and according to police was accused of going into the guest room of his home, where the boy was sleeping, and between 8pm and 9:30pm pulled the child’s pants down and touched his private parts. The boy was visiting Venter’s son. A father of three, Venter was sentenced in December 2014 to four years under house arrest following his conviction on several charges, including sex with a minor boy. He was in the meantime arrested in May last year

for allegedly contravening the conditions of his 2014 sentence. One of the conditions was that he was not allowed to work with children. It however came to light that he was allegedly treating children at his dental practice while serving his sentence. Pre-sentencing procedures in the recent matter got underway in George Regional Court last week. As part of proceedings, forensic social worker Hayley Koen’s report was read out in court on October 11. After assessing the victim, Koen mentioned in her report that the victim had shown dramatic behavioural changes. She said he was ashamed of what had happened to him and that he had developed a very low self-

esteem since the incident. Koen said the young victim was traumatised and afraid people would find out that he was a victim of sexual abuse. The boy has changed schools, as he is embarrassed being associated with the friends he had at the time of the incident. Koen’s report also mentioned that before the incident the boy had been an athletic and sporty child, but now no longer played any sport. She said he struggled to sleep and often isolated himself in his room. He also does not talk much. The matter was postponed to November 8 due to the state’s social worker having been booked off sick and not being able to testify. Plett resident and antichild abuse activist from

Women and Men Against Child Abuse Joanne Barrett, who had been attending court in all three matters, said this case had been riddled with delays since 2015 and that the constant postponements was not only a waste of taxpayers’ money and the court’s “precious time”, but was also an injustice to the young victim. “The child victims are the ones who battle to get closure with continual, unnecessary delays and postponements, which we at WMACA find totally unacceptable.” Plettenberg Bay-based anti-child abuse organisation The Green Hearts, whose members have been diligently following the matter, also expressed frustration with the delays. Garden Route Media

Branch out on Garden Day: Sunday October 21 HERE’S nothing like the joy of gardening connecting to nature, the pride of growing your own plants, flowers or food and, of course, the amazing health benefits. It is also well documented that gardens, no matter how big or small, have the potential to bring people together, which is why on Sunday October 21 the call for SA’s annual Garden Day is to down tools and invite neighbours, friends, and family to celebrate your garden together. Now in its third year, the Garden Day idea sprouted from a group of enthusiastic gardeners who wanted to unite South Africans by creating a day where everyone can enjoy and celebrate their gardens together. Plants instead of pills Many studies have shown

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that gardening can also make a significant contribution to our health and well-being, not just as a way to get some physical exercise but also to improve our mental health. GPs in London have already started to prescribe gardening time to assist patients with mental health troubles. According to professor Nox Makunga, a plant scientist at the Department of Botany and Zoology at Stellenbosch University, SA’s incredible flora has been used by people for health purposes for centuries. “Apart from their aesthetic beauty, gardens have many healing properties linked to psychospiritual healing,” says the prof. “They may provide us with food and medicine as well as an intercon-

nectedness to nature, the world around us, and our very self. Benefits are thus psychological, social, emotional, and physical. A medicinal garden is often a first line of primary health care.” Gardening is not only beneficial for your mental health but is also the world’s best-kept exercise secret. Whether you spend five minutes or a whole day gardening, all the stretching, pulling and lifting help you and your garden stay in great shape and increase your physical health by an average of 33%. You may even live longer. “When one works the garden, the physical labour provide good exercise that benefits both the cardio and muscular system; and even works the brain,” adds professor Makunga.

Gardening is a great way of connecting with people and reducing loneliness, which is why this Garden Day you are encouraged to sow the Spirit of Ubuntu. If you’ve been admiring your neighbour’s garden from afar, it’s the perfect time for you to branch out and cultivate relationships with those around you. Taking part couldn’t be easier: decide on how you want to celebrate your garden space with family, friends, and neighbours, then download the free digital and printable invitation from the Garden Day website and send it out to everyone you’d like to join you on Sunday. Visit www.gardenday. co.za for details and diarise Saturday November 10, when it’s time for this year’s Plett Open Gardens in aid of PAWS.

All you need for those first 1,000 days... Expecting mothers and those with babies are able to attend First 1,000 Days (FTD) classes held at Plett Town Clinic twice a month. Hosted by a medical doctor and dietician, the classes aim to promote wellness by covering important topics such as healthy eating, exercising, mental health, child health, and women’s health. “We have only recently started with classes after identifying an opportunity to promote wellness of our pregnant mothers and those with small children. Our focus is the first 1,000 days - the period from conception until two years of age. This is such an important time for the development of a child, and a great deal of it is spent in the womb. It is during this time that moms must eat well, rest and look after their mental health. It is a new project and attendance varies from class to class but we hope to welcome more mothers and fathers to these sessions,” said medical officer Dr Lizel Cremer. Pictured second from right, dietician Ashleigh Moolman assists patients with exercises for pregnant mothers and those with babies. The next class is on October 23. Call Ashleigh on 044 302 8400 for details.

NEWS & VIEWS

17 October 2018

Alliance between Bitou and Tourism ‘a good thing’ says Derek Hanekom Wandisile Afrika Sebezo

HE national minister of tourism, Derek Hanekom, was in Plett this past Saturday, and the occasion called for all things tourism to be discussed. But the elephant in the packed conference room at Beacon Island Resort was unmissable: the bylaw designed to undo the Plett Tourism Association. The minister cleared the air with regards to the legitimacy of the Association, saying it’s “a good thing” that there was a type of public-private partnership between Bi-

tou Municipality and Plett Tourism, but lamenting the fact that the bylaw should divide these entities. “It should only seek to strengthen this relationship,” he said. The minister’s visit was twofold: he met with municipal officials, councillors and local industry leaders, during which presentations were made about current and potential projects that would see the growth of the local tourism industry. He then met with the general public at Beacon Island Resort, where various issues were addressed.

BYLAW ISSUE ADDRESSED: From left, speaker Euan Wildeman, Bitou mayor Peter Lobese, and minister Derek Hanekom discussed Plett’s proposed tourism bylaw during a meeting with stakeholders on Saturday - Photo: Patty Butterworth

A key aspect of these engagements was the realisation by all speakers that transformation could no longer be ignored. In order to transform the tourism industry, Bitou Municipality, Plett Tourism, and other stakeholders will have to put their heads together and rally around a common vision and strategy for the town. Transformation would also mean that these stakeholders have to ensure projects like the Kranshoek Heritage Bridge take flight, and that the township tourism route concept for KwaNokuthula, initiated by Plett Tourism, be fast-tracked. Most importantly, it would require the development of an appropriate funding model to keep these projects afloat. Plett Tourism chairman Peter Wallington expressed gratitude to the minister and thanked the municipality for organising the ministerial engagements. Bitou mayor Peter Lobese thanked everyone in attendance, particularly key stakeholders of the local tourism industry, and committed to improving relations between them.

CXPRESS

Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

17 October 2018

Ingenuity pays off in WasteNothing Knysna schools competition HE long-anticipated prize-giving of the BioWise WasteNothing Knysna schools competition took place on Wednesday October 10, when Ashford Christian School walked away with a R30,000 cash prize as the winning high school. The top position in the primary schools category was shared by Sedgefield Primêr and Hornlee Primary, who won R15,000 each. Sue Swain from BioWise said 10 schools submitted entries. “Schools had to undertake activities that promote earth-savvy living, which included being waterwise, waste-wise, space-wise and energy-wise. “Ashford stood out not just for their entries in all categories, but also because they introduced the children to a research-based methodology,” she explains. “The children created different size wind turbines of recycled plastic bottles and tested them in different locations. They made solar panels, rain water gauges, bottle brick structures and vertical gardens. “They redirected and slowed rain water to ‘plant’ the rain and used rainwater to flush their toilets. The school really showed a good understanding of what was required to lead an earthsavvy life. A well-deserved first prize!” She said the two primary school winners were equally impressive. “These schools focused on water- and waste-wise initiatives. Sedgefield Primêr impressed with the way they incorporated the WasteNothing message in everything they do. They had a music concert with instruments made of recycled materials, and their Arbor Day celebrations also focused on earth-savvy living. “If you want to learn how to use rainwater more than just for the garden, Hornlee Primary is the perfect example. They have plumbed water from their rainwater tanks into the bathrooms

EARTH-WISE HEADMISTRESS: Pictured with Ashford Christian School principal Adene Schutte, second from left, are BioWise director Sue Swain, Christopher Bezuidenhout from Knysna Municipality, and Nondumiso Mgwenya from SANParks, right

for flushing toilets. They have also created 974 water bricks and have used these for flower bed edging, garden chairs, and more.” Knysna mayor Mark Willemse attended the event and said the entries showed passion, interest and innovation. “These learners are the decision makers of the future and while they need to be able to count, we should also teach them what really counts. “As an organisation, we realise that we have to change the way in which we operate. This programme has laid the groundwork for a mindset change and I congratulate Sue and her team for a fantastic project. I hope that these initiatives will continue, and not just stop here.” Swain said an exciting de-

velopment from the competition is that it created the platform for a youth forum that could facilitate the sharing of skills and knowledge. “The different schools have strengths in different aspects and that is an opportunity for them to learn from each other.” She added that what stood out from teachers’ comments was that the children were pushed to perform outside their comfort zones. “The competition made them realise they could do more than they thought. It also gave the opportunity to shine for children who are sometimes in the background.” The competition partners were SANParks, Knysna Municipality, Edge of Africa, and the National Lotteries Commission.

Winning bag pays it forward

Sahara Thagunna was the winner of the WasteNothing Challenge competition with her unique ‘What the Bag?’ Sahara says she created the project to make a change in the world and the people around us. Based on the pay-it-forward principle, her bag offers out free handmade cloth shopping bags and produce bags. In return, each receiver must pledge to use the bags and pass the message on to three other people.

BUSINESS

17 October 2018

CXPRESS

The fourth industrial revolution is upon us, ready or Knott… E are living in a connected society where most people have access to smart mobile devices. Having quick access to information has become an extension of our very existence. We have begun to see internet access, among other things, becoming cheaper and far more accessible than ever before. Technology is spawning autonomous vehicles and other processes, and we’re seeing a rise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in everyday devices. This is the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). According to former Mxit CEO and founder of the non-profit Project Isizwe Alan Knott-Craig, if businesses don’t embrace this disruption, they will not survive. Knott-Craig kicked off the revolutionary TshWiFi concept in 2013 and since then 2-million+ people have connected to the internet during 90-million logged sessions over 803 Free Internet Zones (FIZs) in Tshwane. He will speak about the changing internet and where it will be in the next five years during the 22nd SA Council of Shopping Centres (SACSC) Annual Congress in Durban, which started today and concludes on Friday October 19. Knott-Craig says the first wave of the internet

was virtual and peopleorientated. Google, Facebook, Twitter, and eBay all exist on the internet without touching the real world. The second wave will mash the virtual and physical world and will connect both people and machines: the 4IR. He says it’s almost as if the 4IR was designed for South Africans. “It allows us to deal with divisive issues like race and geography, and helps ensure the economy prospers and we have a brighter future. “It’s happening and there’s nothing we can do about it. We have a decision to make: do we want to be washed over by the wave, or do we want to build a surfboard, and ride it?” South Africa, Africa and the rest of the world is currently in the middle of the 4IR, which will change SA in the following ways: • Less friction - more productivity; • Lower marginal costs deflation; • More transparency better behaviour; • Speedier economic growth - more jobs; • Better politics - better presidents; • Safer cities - increased safety for citizens; • Better classrooms - better educations. Knott-Craig joins a host of speakers, like Polo

Leteka, Gil Oved, Lebo Gunguluza, Vusi Thembekwayo and Vinny Lingham of Dragons’ Den South Africa, who will address delegates at the Business Lunch. Other speakers include leading economist Jer-

emy Gardiner, head of Strategic Partnerships & Uber Business for SubSaharan Africa Shavaye Govender, and Zak Venter, the founder of the influential South African brand Sergeant Pepper Clothing Company.

Meet Andrew ‘Bitcoin’ Caw Knysna Municipality strives to maintain its position as a premier tourist destination in South Africa – a place where peace, prosperity and harmony prevail, ensuring an exceptional lifestyle for residents and visitors alike.

ERRATUM FORMAL SCHEDULED WARD COMMITTEE MEETING The Municipality hereby gives notice of a Ward Committee meeting which will be held as per the schedule below: Ward 9

EARLY ADOPTER: A proudly South Africa entrepreneur, Andrew Caw teaches people about Bitcoin and helps them to get started

NDREW Caw was an early adopter of technology; he started his first business building computers at age 14 which became a successful IT sales and services company. In his corporate role, Andrew built up and managed a R24-million IT infrastructure over 11 years. In 2014, Andrew discovered Bitcoin. He started buying and holding it when it cost just R3,600 per unit. By February 2016,

Andrew’s Bitcoin holding was worth more than he could hope to earn in his day job in 20 years. He closed his IT firm and began to create personal rules for his time. He was retired and financially free by age 32. Andrew is focussed on learning all he can of Bitcoin and about our ‘money’, and sharing this knowledge with others. See the advert alongside for details of his Plett session.

Councillor Mark Willemse

Date

Venue

Time

30 Oct 2018

Brackenhill Community Hall

18:00

Enquiries can be directed to Mr Brian Cornelius, Coordinator: Public Participation at bcornelius@knysna.gov.za or alternatively to Ms Noxolo Mcothama at nmcothama@knysna.gov.za or tel. 044 302 6586. J DOUGLAS ACTING MUNICIPAL MANAGER Clyde Street KNYSNA 6570 www.ayandambanga.co.za

135000 CXPRESS www.thecandocompanyco.za

CXPRESS

INTERVAL

17 October 2018

Dining humour - please be seated… • Diner: “Excuse me, but are you looking to hire any help at present?” Manager: “No, we already have all the staff we need.” Diner: “In that case, would you mind getting someone to wait on me?” • I went to a restaurant that serves breakfast at any time. So I ordered French Toast during the Renaissance. • An out-of-towner in New York at the height of the tourist season decided to revisit an uptown restaurant he’d enjoyed on a previous trip to the city. Finally, catching the eye of an overworked waiter, he said: “You know, it’s been over five years since I first came in here.” “You’ll have to wait your turn, sir,” replied the harried and now irritated waiter, “I can only serve one table at a time.” • As a young woman sat down in a small restaurant, a waitress came over to take her order. “I’ll have a hamburger please,” the woman said. “Burger!” the waitress yelled over her shoulder. Then the woman added: “Make it well done.” The waitress turned away again. “Torture it!” she yelled. • The headwaiter of an elegant restaurant recoiled in disgust as a man in boots, torn jeans and a leather jacket approached him. “Hey, man,” the man said, “where’s the toilet?” “Go down the hall and turn left, “replied the headwaiter. “When you see the sign marked ‘Gentlemen’ pay no attention to it and go right on in.” • A man and his girlfriend were out to dinner one night. The waiter tells them the night’s special is Chicken Almondine and fresh fish.

“The chicken sounds good; I’ll have that,” the woman says. The waiter nods. “And the vegetable?” he asks. “Oh, he’ll have the fish,” she replies. • A sign in a restaurant’s display window: ‘Eat now - Pay waiter’. • A friend and I were standing in line at a fastfood restaurant, waiting to place our order. On the wall there was a big sign posted: ‘No bills larger than $20 will be accepted’. The woman in front of us, pointing to the sign, and remarked: “Believe me, if I had a bill larger than $20, I wouldn’t be eating here.” • An American tourist in Dublin had been complaining a great deal about the food. “Here,” he said to the waitress while holding out a piece of meat for inspection, “do you call that pig?” “Which end of the fork, sir?” the waitress asked sweetly. • A man went into a deli shop and took a seat at the lunch counter. “Give me a corned beef sandwich,” he ordered. “Corned beef sandwiches are not on the menu, but I can give you a sandwich with corned beef in it, like our Midnight Special,” the waiter replied. “What’s a Midnight Special?” the man asked. “It’s a triple decker with corned beef, tongue, bologna, tomato, lettuce, onion, pickle, and mayonnaise on toasted raisin bread.” “Could you just place a piece of corned beef between two slices of white bread and serve it to me on a plate?” “Why, sure!” the waiter replied. Then, turning to the sandwich man, he sang

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out: “One Midnight Special. Make it one deck, hold the tongue, bologna, tomato, lettuce, onion, pickle, and mayonnaise and make the raisin bread white, untoasted!” • May I take your order? the waiter asked. “Yes, how do you prepare your chickens?” “Nothing special sir,” he replied. “We just tell them straight out that they’re going to die.” • Diner: “I’ll have some lamb chops and make them lean.” Waiter: “Forward or backward, sir?” • I had lunch in a Chinese restaurant the other day, but the chicken was terrible. So I called the waiter over and I said: “This chicken is rubbery.” And the waiter said: “Thank you berry much!” Waiter! • “Waiter, bring me a glass of wine and a Dover sole.” “Fillet?” “Yes, to the brim.” • “Waiter, does the pianist play requests?” “Yes, sir.” “Then ask him to play cards till I have finished my meal.” • “Waiter, have you got frogs’ legs?” “Certainly, sir.” “Then hop into the kitchen and get me a steak.” • “Waiter, how long have you been here?” “Six months, sir.”

“Ah, then, it can’t be you who took my order.” • “Waiter, I asked for bread with my dinner.” “It’s in the sausages, sir.” • “Waiter, I’ll have a chop; no, make that a steak.” “I’m a waiter, sir; not a magician!” • “Waiter, I’ll have my bill now.” “How did you find your steak, sir?” “Oh, I just moved the potato, and there it was.” • “Waiter, my plate’s wet!” “That’s not wet, sir that’s the soup.” • “Waiter, there’s a fly swimming in my soup!” “So what do you expect me to do, call a lifeguard?” • “Waiter, there’s a worm on my plate.” “That’s your sausage, sir.” • “Waiter, this coffee tastes like soap.” “That must be tea, sir. The coffee tastes like glue.” • “Waiter, this lobster’s only got one claw.” “I expect he’s been in a fight, sir.” “Well then, bring me the winner!” • “Waiter, what do you call this?” “Cottage pie, sir.” “Well, I’ve just bitten on a piece of the door.” • “Waiter, your thumb’s in my soup!” “That’s all right, sir, it’s not hot.” • “Waiter, you’re not fit to serve a pig!” “I’m doing my best, sir.”

SOCIAL SCENE

17 October 2018

CXPRESS

DON’T MISS CHARL & CO: The Knysna Plett Concert Series presents the Charl du Plessis Trio on Monday October 22. Says Knysna Music Society chair Penny Smythe-Rathbone: “The trio is one of our musical favourites and Charl’s concerts are always at the perfect time of year, when we are all gearing up for the end of our musical season and preparing for summer.” Founded 11 years ago, the trio comprises Werner Spies on bass, percussionist Peter Auret - who owns his own recording studio and has won awards for his production and recording engineering - and of course Charl - a Steinway artist and the first person to play a grand piano on top of Table Mountain. They will play operatic arias and the best jazz standards to provide a light, fun but always professional listening experience. The venue is the DRC hall at Fichat Street and tickets are sold at the door from 6:45pm at R150 (scholars pay R30), with the show starting at 7:30pm. Art aficionados in Plett should take note that entries in the Differently-abled Awareness Campaign’s art competition will be exhibited at the Old Musica premises in Melvilles Corner from October 22-24, from 10am to 1pm. The Grade R-3 finalists will be judged by some of Plett’s top artists and the winners announced early November on local MC90.3fm and in CXPRESS. Go along and choose your favourites before you shop - you may even meet the newly-chosen Mr and Miss Knysna/Plett finalists at the exhibition! Call Rita on 082 560 2606 for details.

People, places & events

UNITED VOICES OF CX SCHOOLS ENTHRAL: Schools of Knysna and Plett featured at a choir festival presented by the Rotary Club of Knysna on Saturday morning October 13. Sponsored by Rawson Properties and presented by able master of ceremonies Peter Southey, the participating singers pulled out all the stops to entertain their audience. Congratulations to the choirs of Concordia High and Primary, Hornlee and Rheenendal Primary, Knysna Montessori, Percy Mdala, Knysna High, Chris Nissen, and Greenwood Bay College. The well-organised first event of its kinds was enjoyed by many listeners, all of whom expressed the hope that many more combo choir festivals should happen in future, displaying the exceptional vocal talents in our midst. Thanks are due to all concerned. Call Peter Southey on 082 778 7080 for additional information. HARKERVILLE MARKETERS RIDE HIGH: On October 13 the Harkerville Saturday Market celebrated 18 years of steady progress from its founding in the year 2000. Situated 12km west of Plett on the N2, the market has grown from humble beginnings to become a destination of choice for Garden Route residents and visitors. It was the brainchild of Menno and Wil Hiemstra, who remain the venture’s sole proprietors. From just a handful of people, the market now boasts some 90 stalls, purveying a mix of fresh produce, food, meals, beverages, fine art, handiwork and crafts. Several of the founder members of the market have remained steadfast and trade regularly to this day. Bundu Breakfast has been serving splendid start-of-theday fare for the last 15 years. The team, led by Di Tiffin, below left, presently comprise, from left at back, Sethu Cimani, Babalwa Mbango, Nolufefe Mgolozelwa, Simanye Shumane and Terra Maneli and, at front, Gloria Maneli. Ntomboxolo Maseko, Zizipho Ngalo and Zanele Nompondo. Gladys’s Coffee Shop was one of the founder vendors of the market. Started by Gladys Ncapha, it is now run by her daughter, Kitha Ncapha, at right above, along with her team, from left, Nolubabalo Matiwane, Noxolo Sulani, Neliswa Mduntyelwa and Nosandile MenzI. Above, founder members Sasha Lewtschenko, left, at his biltong stall and Debbie Habib, at right, serving freshly-grown mushrooms. Come rain, come shine, the Harkerville Saturday Market is open from 8am to 12 noon on every Saturday of the year. - Timothy Twidle

JONG AKTEURS EN DRAMA-MENEER BELOON: Plet Sekondêr se dramagroep onder leiding van Mnr Jeftha het deelgeneem aan die Eden Drama Fees in Knysna op Saterdag 15 September. Hulle het deurgedring tot die volgende rondte en het toe gedurende die skoolvakansie ‘n werkswinkel in Oudtshoorn bygewoon om hul voor te berei vir die finaal. Van links op die foto is klankman Byron Booysen, Renaldo Bussak, Nikita Bowie, Jamie Whaites, Caitlyne Windvogel, Michaela Whaites, en Mnr Jeftha - wie op die koop toe die prys losgeslaan het as Beste Skrywer met Logan Titus wie voor kniel.

CXPRESS

CLASSIFIEDS

17 October 2018

Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

ON THE SOAPBOX

17 October 2018

Letters to the Editor

Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600

As the saying goes: the more things change, Especially when it comes the more they stay the same to issues of key strategic After he was sacked by Jacob Zuma, on allegations that he refused to sign the nuclear deal and consequently having a fallout with that president of the day, disgraced former Finance minister Nhlahla Nene was hailed as the most dignified of them all. But through the state capture commission, he admitted to revelations that he, too, had met with the Gupta brothers on more than one occasion this despite the fact that he had on record denied ever having met the Guptas. It turned out our golden boy was just as untrustworthy as the rest; he is, after all, a politician. More worrying to me, however, was not the fact

that Nene lied about the Guptas, but that while he was deputy Finance minister and chairperson of the PIC, both the Mail & Guardian and amaBhungane reported that his son, Siyabonga Nene, was involved in securing an investment deal worth over R18.5-million to acquire 50% of S&S Refinery LDA in Mozambique. As the saying goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. It seems falling from that chair was not enough - the man had to also go and fall from grace. What a pity. Now I have to ponder: had Nene not resigned, would Ramaphosa have fired him? I doubt it, since it seems we have an inde-

Ek vra maar net... Na aanleiding van ‘n berig in Die Burger is ‘n munisipale bestuurder van Hartswater geskors nadat sy op eie houtjie vir haarself ‘n stewige terugwerkende verhoging gegee het. ‘n Ondersoek na die ongerymdhede sal nou gedoen word. Graag sal ek wil weet wat die posisie is by Bitou Munisipaliteit. Wie stel die salarisse en die verhogings vas van die top bestuur of stel hulle dit self vas? Na wat ek verneem verdien hulle buitensporige hoë salarisse. Daar is nie geld om lewensredders of personeel aan te stel vir die noorsaaklike dienste nie, maar ‘n burgemeester wat omtrent geen stemme in die verkiesing gekry het

nie, swaai die septer in Plettenbergbaai. Hiervoor moet ons die DA lede kwalik neem wat nie gaan stem het nie. Graag sal ek ook wil verneem of die person wat vir haarself die duurste kar aangeskaf het en toe haar kartoelaag verhoog het, nog by die munisipaliteit in diens is. Of is daar weer ‘n paar toue getrek om haar in haar pos te behou? Moontlik kan Mnr Wilderman hierdie vraag beantwoord. Hopelik kan al my vrae spoedig beantwoord word in die volgende CXPRESS. Belastingbetaler, Plet (Hierdie brief is na Bitou gestuur vir kommentaar, maar teen saktyd was daar nog geen nuus in dié verband nie. - Reds.)

Here loerie loerie…

Wilderness-based CXPRESS stringer Bob Hopkin shared these pics shot by wife Joyce, and wrote: “This is our tame loerie patiently waiting for me to finish peeling a tangerine for him. He has a mate who is a little more shy but we are trying to get them both to come for a treat - one can see the mate in the background on the picture above.” Aah, the joys of residing in our particular paradise!

cisive leader as president. The only reason why some of us welcomed Tito Mboweni’s appointment as minister of Finance is that it provides stability to the current mess we’re in. The reality is that he is getting old, pushing 59. He was Labour minister in Mandela’s cabinet, and Reserve Bank governor for a decade. Surely someone much younger, even female, would have been more appropriate? Tito himself in February, in a tweet that has since resurfaced, had this to say: “I am not available for minister of Finance. You cannot recycle the same people all over again. It is time for young people. We are available for advisory roles. Not cabinet. We have done that.” I wonder what has changed... I do not fault Mboweni, though - a call was made and he answered. The ANC, however, both as a party and as government, must halt this obsession they have with old people.

deployments in government, it must stop recycling its leaders. Actions like these reiterate the ANC’s vote of no confidence in young people. For the new to be born, the old must die, right Comrades? I am hoping that this is but a temporary measure up until we get to the elections next year, when Ramaphosa will have the pleasure of appointing his own cabinet from scratch, without having to deal with those Zuma loyalists still lurking about. But with Nene gone, and Tito being the ‘newest’ new Finance minister the fifth in just three years - Ramaphosa has done well to curtail market sentiments in his favour. After all, this is practically still a pre-Ramaphosa era, since our billionaire president has yet to serve his first term. But at least there’s a new sense of stability, as far as investor confidence is concerned. Wandisile Afrika Sebezo, KwaNokuthla

This wildlife sanctuary is really worth a visit On October 4 and 5, I did community service at Jukani, the wildlife sanctuary in The Crags. Jukani is home to rescued wild animals, including larger cats such as Bengal and Siberian tigers, jaguars, leopard, cheetah, white lions, and a black leopard. The sanctuary is also home to other predators like the African wild dog, hyena, jackal, and a honey badger together with wildlife including raccoons, zebra, and springbuck. Most of these animals have been rescued from captivity and therefore cannot be released into the wild, as they don’t have the natural instincts to ensure their survival. However, Jukani offers these predators and other wildlife a home, where they are respected and protected from hunters and other environmental dangers. It is their safe haven - a place of refuge and security. Volunteering at Jukani opened my eyes. I got to see first-hand the love that the sanctuary’s staff have for the animals. These beautiful creatures are in great condition and receive unconditional love from everyone who works there. Working at Jukani is definitely a full-time job, I have great respect and highly admire the people who work there, as they are the reason these wonderful

animals are alive and safe. Their wellbeing is top priority. They are an experienced team, all of whom understand the dynamics of the park. Jukani is definitely worth a visit - not only is it an educational experience, but witnessing the beauty and majestic features of all these beautiful species brings one closer to nature. Savanna Harris, Plett (Leanne Solms is the teacher in charge of the Fish Eagle Awards at Wittedrift High, one of the requirements for contenders being to write a piece for publication, as per Savanna’s. Another prerequisite is that students have to do X hours of community service, which can be completed at a variety of local organisations. Explains Leanne: “There are numerous options available, so some of the Fish Eagle contenders did community service at Plett NSRI, at the local clinics, during PAWS Spay Days, at crèches, or by reading to the elderly. The idea is for them to get involved early in the year and get those hours in by committing to any of the many good causes available in our town, and so be eligible for the awards.” Call Wittedrift High on 044 535 9731 to find out how your child can apply to be part of this small school, and see their newsletter on page 9. - Eds.)

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CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

17 October 2018

Plett dojo sweeps clean at martial arts national championships

Rotarian’s brainwave means fourth Eden Kite Fest now a two-day affair AKING place over two days this coming weekend, the fourth edition of the Eden Kite Festival has now also expanded to cover two towns. Day 1 will take place in George on Saturday October 20 next to the N2’s Sasol Highway Garage, while Day 2 sees a return to the Mosaic Village & Outdoor Market in Sedgefield on Sunday the 21st. This addition to the annual event was initiated by Donald Goldfain of George Rotary Club, and Rotary has undertaken to organise the extra day, which also has the full support of George Tourism. This year sees the return

When the cream of South Africa’s martial arts crop descended on the Coetzenburg sports centre in Stellenbosch during the last weekend of September, there was a contained but incredibly determined contingent of Plett competitors among them. These kids, teens and adults form part of Plettenberg Bay Martial Arts Academy (PBMAA), and did their dojo and town proud by their collective achievements at Destiny - the name of these combined karate and kickboxing championships. The 19 participating PBMAA students brought home 27 gold medals (i.e. national titles), nine silver and 10 bronze medals, as well as four Grand Champion trophies. Two of the coaches - sensei Reynard Westraad and senpai Gerald Bleeker - were selected to take part in the AA PRO Black-belt Division, which is a magnificent achievement on the country’s grandest scale. A loud shout-out goes to everyone who contributed to once again establish Plett’s spot on the country’s top martial-arts echelons. From left in front are Lojza Pisonic, Eden Bleeker, Kaitlyn and Connor Noble, Wian Venter, Cameron Frew and Blake Taylor, with Stefan Venter, Johandrie Peens, sensei Elrie Bosman, senpai Gerald Bleeker, Kian Minopetros, Ella van Huyssteen and Aiden Trahms in front. (Not present: Aligi and Galliano Boni, Joshua van Renen, Zoë Ashurst, Suzy Noble and Andries Trahms.) Photo: Andries Trahms - PrintTree Plett for all your print jobs: Jolanda 071 220 6241

of old favourites like the Kite Team Challenge - an aerial battle between teams of three using traditional Japanese-style fighting kites. For the past three years, this item has been the highlight of the festival, with teams of friends and colleagues getting into the heat of the battle. The entry fee of R350 per team sponsors one child’s schooling for a month, while affording players two hours of exceptional fun. You are allowed to switch team members between heats, so get a group together of anything between three and 10 - any team entering in George on Saturday gets an automatic

entry to the competition in Sedgefield on Sunday. There is also a competition for kites made from upcycled materials, with great prizes in store for the best creations. They will be judged by international kite-flyers on creativity of design, workmanship, and flying ability. For materials, think bin or shopping bags, newspapers, dowel sticks, bamboo - your imagination is the limit, as long as all materials are upcycled rather than bought (visit www. kiteplans.org for ideas). With 20+ stalls in George and 60 in Sedgefield, jumping castles, live music, raffles and shows, there will be much to do on both familyfriendly days. call Keith on 083 679-4039 for details.

Robberg Xpress run in perfect racing climes

Unlike this past weekend with its gale-force winds and thunderstorms, Sunday October 7 dawned perfectly clear, the few clouds that hovered at daybreak fast burnt away to afford spectators and competitors in this year’s Robberg Xpress staggering 360-degree views of Robberg Reserve and the ocean. It was a case of ‘usual suspects’ for both the 10km and 5km finishers, if featuring some shake-ups in final podium positions. Pictured above from left are Sivuyile Qole (2nd), winner Rodney Prins - who klapped the entire peninsula’s circular track, including The Island, in 50:20! - Jason Swemmer (4th), Melikhaya Msizi (3rd), and Bradley Krige (5th). Below, first runners home in the 5km Shy Shark race were Zack Aaron (3rd), Robbie Styger (1st), and Henri van Huyssteen (2nd), pictured here with Plett Athletics Club (PAC) chair Georgie Minopetros at right. The club thanks everyone who rocked up to race or just enjoy a great day out on the ‘Berg, with special thanks to Plett Ski-boat Association for sponsorship and to CapeNature for availing this unique trail. To performing PAC members were Sivuyile and Jason, with Tania Niewoudt and Nadine Malan finishing among the top five ladies. Call Georgie on 072 629 5316 to find out more.

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