18 March 2020
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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Elbow or just bow? During his Sunday night address to the nation on measures to curb the spread of coronavirus, president Cyril Ramaphosa’s most animated moment was a demonstration on ‘elbow greeting’ instead of the traditional handshake or hug. But a directive earlier on urged citizens to sneeze or cough into the crook of their arm if no tissue was readily available. We call on readers, for the sake of general hygiene, to use a different arm for greeting than the one used for coughing. Perhaps it’s safest to just give a friendly bow… Read more on pages 3, 4, 7, and 12 about the current state of Covid-19 and the shockwaves experienced in all spheres of South African society.
Sharing is caring indeed - p2
End of DA road for Mark Willemse - p3
Laughter still the best medicine - p8
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
18 March 2020
Dawn leads the way as differently-abled aficionado of Plett’s lapping rollers Legs won’t get you to the surf? Let Plett’s 4x4 beach chair serve its unique amphibian purpose! ROM the perfect vantage point of her best-loved local ‘kuier’ venue, long-time Plett resident Dawn Leggat has been eyeing waves lapping at the smooth Central Beach sands for ever and a day. But being differently-abled and confined to a wheelchair for the past eight years, the short distance from the club’s deck to the surf is not a trip she can negotiate on her own steam. Then friend Anne remembered that, thanks to a collaboration twixt Ford Motor Company Fund and WESSA back in 2018, Plett was one of the select coastal towns across SA to be equipped with a speciallydesigned amphibian chair capable of traversing soft beach sand and of floating in the sea. Robberg 5 - one of Bitou Municipality’s six Blue Flag beaches - is home to this special chair, and an outing was arranged in no time. The day dawned (if you’ll pardon the pun) bright and sunny, and Dawn was ready to once again connect with the waves. Says Anne: “With the help of
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our wonderful lifeguards Crystal, Josh and Jonah, Dawn’s daughter Lyndal and friend Kingsley, Dawn was wheeled onto the beach and into the water, where she had a whale of a time. “She relaxed a little in the sun and then paid a visit to our lookout points to enjoy the views of Robberg and the beautiful bay. We ended the day with a delicious lunch at Dawn’s favourite spot - Plett Ski-boat Club!â€? Heart-felt thanks are due to those who donated the beach wheelchair, making such memorable trips possible for differently-abled residents and visitors to the town. Plett’s Lifeguards are on duty from November 1 to April 30 annually, from 7am to 7pm, so swing past Robberg 5 before the end of next month if you would like them to facilitate a session in ‘the chair’. • Read ‘Ford’s amphibian 4x4 avails ocean to Plett’s differently-abled’ on page 4 of the April 11, 2018 edition at www. cxpress.co.za for additional information on the beach chair.
OCEAN ELATION: Dawn Leggat recently relived the rare pleasure of frolicking in the waves at Robberg 5 Beach, thanks to a special amphibian wheelchair and the help of Plett Lifeguards Crystal, Josh and Jonah below, she enjoys a bite with daughter Lyndal and friend Kingsley Photos: Anne Beale
Giving a pint goes a very long way ‘Let’s get a quick pint’ is something we say to friends without hesitation on a regular basis, and the offer is mostly accepted. By dedicating just 20 minutes of your time thrice yearly to give a pint of your blood, you can save a life - be it that of a loved one, a friend, a colleague, or simply an unknown person in need. “Most importantly,� says Plettenberg Bay resident Ken des Ligneris, who recently celebrated his 100th blood donation, “know your blood type. Some of us have rare blood types, which means you could potentially save the lives of three people. My journey towards 100 donations has been long in years, but consistency is key. Once a donor, you are reminded by means of WhatsApp or telephonically of the next collection date and venue. You are able to donate again after 56 days have lapsed. One usually has a four-hour window to attend and after you’ve donated, you receive a fruit juice and biscuit for your trouble. So replace your next pint or coffee sessions and become a donor today!� The next opportunity for readers to ‘bleed’ is at Knysna’s St George’s Mall on March 23 from 2-7pm. Visit www.wcbs.org. za for all you need to know about donating in the coronavirus context.
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NEWS & VIEWS
18 March 2020
CXPRESS
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Knysna mayoral saga finally concluded as W-Cape High Court supports DA’s dismissal of Mark Willemse A new mayor will be elected by the Knysna council and a by-election held to fill former mayor Mark Willemse’s vacant seat, after the Western Cape High Court found last week that the termination of Willemse’s DA membership was valid - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports HE party ended Willemse’s membership on September 30 last year following months of turmoil which started when Willemse voted “with his conscience” in favour of a motion of no confidence in former DA mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies last year. After Bouw-Spies was ousted, DA members left the council chambers without voting for a new mayor. Willemse was nominated for the position and the majority of the remaining councillors voted in his favour. This led to two votes of no confidence in Willemse by his fellow caucus members. These however failed and Willemse remained in the position until his membership termination. Willemse then sought relief from the Western Cape High Court in the form of an interdict to place his suspension on hold. Judge AJ Sievers however dismissed his application on Thursday last week, stating that while Willemse was entitled to vote with his conscience, it did not mean
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he could escape the “sanction it invites”. “Political parties are at the core of our democracy. In order to function as a true political party they require the power to, if necessary, expel members for failing to adhere to party decisions,” OUTH Africans are this week coming to terms with conditions introduced to prevent the spread of coronavirus, as announced by president Cyril Ramaphosa in his much-anticipated public address on Sunday. The general response to news of the immediate institution of travel bans has been overwhelmingly positive, as has been the case with opinions over preventative measures such as the closure of schools and a ban on gatherings counting 100 or more attendees. With a plethora of national, provincial, and regional events cancelled, no one remains unaffected - perhaps more so in our Garden Route towns, where tourism
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Sievers said. Sievers explained that Willemse voted against the previous DA mayor in a motion of no confidence supported by opposition parties. “Mr Willemse then took the position of mayor himself without his party’s offi-
cial sanction and thereafter proceeded to appoint nonDA members to his mayoral committee. “Unsurprisingly, Mr Willemse lost the confidence of the DA federal executive and the Knysna caucus. While he was entitled to act
in accordance with his conscience, that does not mean that he can escape the sanction it invites.” DA MP Dion George confirmed that the Knysna council would now be able to elect a mayor and that the IEC would set a by-
Focus on Covid-19 remains the top-earner. Turn to page 4 to find out why provincial marketing and investment champions Wesgro believes there is room for optimism and unexpected opportunities to explore. Schools around the country close their doors today, reconvening after Easter rather than the traditional week-long holiday scheduled from March 20-31. Sports events, fundraisers and tourism drawcards of all kinds have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely while Western Cape citizens watch news channels and feeds to find out what the latest number of confirmed
cases are, especially in close geographical proximity. The fact of the matter is that Covid-19 will kill but a fraction of the people it’s sure to bankrupt - and that’s doubly true for bigger enterprises, one projection being that several national and international airlines will be out of business before the end of May. So one bright side is that the planet will be spared mega-tonnes of jet fuel being released into the atmosphere, with a similar environmental plus resulting from industries around the globe being forced to down tools until the pandemic is under control.
Amid the unprecedented impact of the virus on our everyday lives, national and provincial authorities remind that the basics of good hygiene must be top priority - read and follow the guidelines provided by the Western Cape Health Department on page 4*. Nearly as important is the appeal to avoid at all costs the dissemination of fake news, which can do untold damage in the context of an international health crisis. Ensure you know the source of any information before passing it on, to avoid creating more panic than that which currently prevails, driving people to
election to fill Willemse’s vacant seat for Ward 9. “We will of course field a DA candidate [for mayor] to take back government, given that the people actually elected us,” George said. No timeframe was provided as to when this would happen. binge shop and elbow one another out of the way in their rush to the baked beans shelve… WhatsApp ‘HI’ to 0600 123 456 to stay abreast of the latest developments or visit www.sacoronavirus. co.za. In the Western Cape, the general public hotline 0800 029 999 operates 24 hours per day, or visit www. westerncape.gov.za/department-of-health/coronavirus for additional information. * We thank Hospice Plett for providing the guide on page 4. The five professional nurses and 27 Community Health Workers are currently disseminating this information to all corners of Bitou, as part of its bouquet of essential services.
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CXPRESS
NEWS & VIEWS
18 March 2020
Chemical war labs and virus leaks part of the corona furore STUART MURRAY wonders if - or when - the coronavirus will reach Plett and other parts of CX Country, and explores some sinister conspiracy theories OULD the coronavirus tor of the Chinese Centre ing with deadly viruses. According to the WashingChina, on the other hand, SARS is probably produced reach Plett? I presume for Disease Control and PreHowever, in 1993 China ton Times, a former Israeli has denied having any of- at the Wuhan laboratory. it’s only a matter of time vention, stated that the virus declared a second facil- military intelligence officer, fensive biological weapons. Was the coronavirus bebefore the global epidemic originated from wild ani- ity, the Wuhan Institute of Dany Shoham, who has And Dr Richard Ebright ing studied at Wuhan? And spreads to South Africa’s mals sold at a seafood mar- Biological Products, which studied Chinese biowarfare, - a microbiologist at Amer- could it have leaked? holiday mecca, considering ket in Wuhan. Of course, is covered by the Biologi- told the newspaper that the ica’s Rutgers University It may well be possible the high number of people bats and pangolins have cal Weapons Convention Institute is linked to Beijing’s - avers that “at this point, to determine or suggest movement we experience. been widely mentioned. (BWC) that China joined covert biological weapons there is no reason to har- the true source of Corona So far there have been a Let’s look a little closer… in 1985. programme, and that “work bour suspicions” that the 2019-nCoV after researchcouple of people tested but Very early in the detection This institute is a civilian on biological weapons is Wuhan lab may be linked ers sequence the genome of these have proven negative. of what the World Health facility, but is known to be conducted as part of dual to the virus outbreak. the virus. But we have to be careful, Organisation calls novel linked to the Chinese de- civilian-military research Nevertheless, the Wuhan • Stuart Murray (stuartwash hands regularly, do not coronavirus 2019-nCoV, fence establishment. There and is definitely covert”. Institute has studied coro- murray758@gmail.com) shake hands in greeting, and word spread in China of is also the Wuhan NationAccording to the Wash- naviruses in the past, in- is a former senior assistant don’t sneeze or cough when the outbreak in Wuhan. al Biosafety Laboratory, ington Times, Mr Shoham cluding the strain that caus- editor of Financial Mail and in contact with other people. The news was quickly which is engaged in virus holds a doctorate in medi- es Severe Acute Respiratory co-founder, editor and CEO It’s quite a scary scenario, linked to the fact that China research, including Ebola cal microbiology and was a Syndrome, or SARS, which of Finance Week. He is reand it all began with the like- has two laboratories tasked and other viruses, at Patho- senior biological and chemi- was responsible for the tired and lives in Plettenlihood of bats spreading the with its covert biological logical 4 (the most danger- cal analyst with Israeli Mili- planet’s last great epidem- berg Bay, currently without disease to pangolins whose weapons programme, start- ous) level. tary Intelligence. ic. China’s vaccine against a hazmat suit. meat was eaten by humans ing the rumour that the virus, - this according to the au- which causes pneumoniathorities in China, where the like symptoms, had escaped virus was first detected. from one of Wuhan’s labs. has been bolstered and reURING the week since in sporting events like the launching this week. But is this really the case? At the same time, accordIn an RSG radio interview focused on domestic travelthe Western Cape an- Cape Epic and Two Oceans The geographical origin of ing to the Washington Post, coronavirus is officially the a US official said that “false nounced its first confirmed Marathon, as well as the on Monday, he said that the lers,” said Harris. He said most accomhighly populated city of rumours had been circulat- case of Covid-19 on March annual Cape Town Interna- Cape had successfully dealt Wuhan, in central Hubei ing on the Chinese internet 11, national directives to tional Jazz Festival - the lat- with disaster before when modation establishments Day Zero was looming after would have been contacted province. The virus causes claiming that the outbreak inhibit spreading of the vi- ter two drawing in excess of pneumonia-like symptoms of coronavirus is part of a rus has changed the face of 30,000 participants annually. the province’s most severe via TripAdvisor or Expedia tourism offerings indelibly. Commenting on the can- drought, but that such chal- to get their products listed. and the disease spreads US conspiracy”. Closest to home for Garden cellation of these provincial lenges should be countered This white-label campaign rapidly - so quickly that it Around about the same prompted Chinese authori- time, Radio Free Asia re- Route residents is cancella- signature events, Wesgro with the message that we are is open for all to use, at no costs involved. ties to rush in military forc- broadcast a Wuhan TV re- tion of the KKNK, which chairman Tim Harris urged still “open for business”. “There is an opportunity “It’s essential that as a seces to close down the city of port from 2015 that showed was due to take Oudtshoorn local tourism operators and 11-million people. China’s virus research labo- by storm this week with an the general public to remain to leverage domestic tour- tor, we align in our messagThe Chinese have taken ratory, known as the Wu- estimated 10,000 festinos calm, follow hygiene guide- ism as a shock absorber to ing. It is a collective approach lines set out by the Depart- the decline in international to do our best to ensure great pains to emphasise han Institute of Virology, converging on the town. But many locals had also ment of Health, and take arrivals. To this point, the business continuity while retheir view of coronavirus’s and noting that it is the only beginnings. Gao Fu, direc- declared site in China work- been involved on some level advantage of a campaign ‘Kids Stay Free’ campaign maining responsible.”
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Stay calm and take advantage of tourism opportunities
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Updated 11 March 2020
Protect yourself from coronavirus (COVID-19) What is Coronavirus (COVID-19)? • A respiratory illness similar to flu (cough, fever, fatigue & aching body/muscles). More commonly than flu, it can become severe causing viral pneumonia (difficulty breathing). • 4 out of 5 people will have a mild illness and recover without treatment. The elderly and those with underlying health conditions have increased risk of severe illness. Cases in children are rare.
How does it spread? You can pick up Coronavirus from: • Touching an infected surface or object. The virus can enter your body when you touch your nose, mouth and eyes. • Very close contact (1-2 metres) with a sick patient.
Prevent spread to keep you and your family safe: • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve/elbow (not your hands) when coughing/ sneezing. Discard used tissues immediately and wash your hands. • Avoid close contact with those who are sick. Wearing a mask is unlikely to protect you if you are well. People who are coughing and sneezing who wear a mask are less likely to infect others. • Avoid touching face, eyes, nose or mouth. • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (counters, bedside table, doorknobs, bathroom surfaces, phones). • Wash hands often, especially before handling food/after using toilet or coughing/sneezing.
Wash your hands well
• Use these steps to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. • Roll up your sleeves, rinse hands in clean water and apply soap to palm of hand. 1 2 3 4 5 6
Rub palms together.
Rub fingers Place one hand over Grip fingers and Rub each Rub tips between back of other, rub rub together. thumb with of nails each other. between fingers. opposite palm. against palm. Swap hands. Swap hands. Swap hands.
• Rinse your hands with clean water and dry on paper towel or allow to dry on their own. General Public Hotline 0800
029 999 . Operating 24 hours per day.
For more information: www.westerncape.gov.za/department-of-health/coronavirus Disclaimer: This information should not be considered as medical advice. It is not a replacement for a visit with a nurse, doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your individual medical situation, please see a healthcare professional. This information is provided on an “as is” basis without any warranties regarding accuracy, relevance, usefulness or fitness for purpose. You use this information at your sole risk.
Updated 11 March 2020
What if I develop symptoms? What are the symptoms of COVID-19? • The more common symptoms of COVID-19 are the same as flu and include: fever, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, body/muscle aches. • Currently very few people have been confirmed with COVID-19 in South Africa.
When should I be concerned that I may have COVID-19? Only suspect COVID-19 if you have a fever with a cough or shortness of breath AND have in the last 14 days: a) travelled internationally or to an area with confirmed COVID-19 cases OR b) had close contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19
If you are feeling short of breath or have difficulty breathing, seek health care urgently. Call ahead to your doctor or alert health facility as soon as you arrive: tell them about your symptoms and any recent travel/contacts. Expect to put on a mask before you enter the facility.
What should I do if I think I have COVID-19? • Do not panic. • First, phone General Public Helpline 0800 029 999 and follow their advice. • Stay home, except to get medical care as directed by the helpline. Do not go to work, school, or public areas. Avoid using public transport or taxis. • Rest, ensure you drink plenty of fluids and use medications (like paracetamol) as needed to reduce fever and/or pain. • Avoid close contact with those who are sick. When in contact with others, wear a mask if available. • Avoid sharing dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding – after using these, wash them well. • Use strict prevention measures .listed on the other side of this leaflet. • Only discontinue home isolation in consultation with helpline/ healthcare provider (usually 14 days).
The most important thing you can do is to prevent spread to keep you, your family and your community safe. Disclaimer: This information should not be considered as medical advice. It is not a replacement for a visit with a nurse, doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your individual medical situation, please see a healthcare professional. This information is provided on an “as is” basis without any warranties regarding accuracy, relevance, usefulness or fitness for purpose. You use this information at your sole risk.
NEWS & VIEWS
18 March 2020
How climate change adaptation can be addressed in the Southern Cape
EYE ON OUR COASTLINE: Climate change dominated recent talks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland; in the Southern Cape, taking better care of our natural environment may well be our saving grace - by ensuring that our rivers and catchments function optimally, reducing largescale unwanted biomass on the landscape, and paying more attention to what is happening along the coastline, we can go a long way in adapting to climate change in the region Photo: Southern Cape Landowners Initiative
OU can be excused if you are a little confused by popular terminology such as ‘climate mitigation’ and ‘climate adaptation’. “But,” says Cobus Meiring of the Southern Cape Landowners Initiative (SC LI), “what we do know as Southern Cape residents, is that the region is increasingly experiencing severe and frequent wildfires, and that our interior, even after some relief brought by summer rain, is facing economic collapse as drought takes its toll on destitute communities. “In addition, we have a highly-developed coastline of which the infrastructure will become gradually more vulnerable if worldwide phenomena like rising sea levels and storm surges reach our shores.” Meiring explains that climate mitigation addresses the root causes by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while adaptation seeks to lower the risks posed by the consequences of climatic changes. “In South Africa, we need
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to do both, because even if emissions are dramatically decreased in the next decade, adaptation will still be needed to deal with the global changes that have already been set in motion.” So, if adaptation is a point of departure for us in the Southern Cape, then where do we start? Given the knowledge that we will experience stronger and hotter winds, more erratic and episodic rainfall patterns, higher exposure to wildfire risks and severe drought, taking better care of our natural environment may well prove to be our saving grace. “We need to ensure that our rivers and catchments function optimally, our sewerage plants and waste management systems work properly, and that we reduce large-scale unwanted biomass - primarily invasive alien plants. “By paying more attention to what is happening along the coastline, we can go a long way in adapting to what we know is coming our way,” he says.
According to Meiring, regional and local authorities have their work cut out for many years to come in dealing with climate adaptation. But so do private landowners and managers in ensuring that their land is well managed and their rivers free of invasive alien plants. “Current projects undertaken by SCLI to assist private landowners along river systems to develop biodiversity conservation corridors, as well as assistance to landowners affected by recent wildfire disasters, clearly indicate that we are a long way from managing our environment responsibly. “We have to do a whole lot more in order to adapt to what is fast becoming the new normal,” Meiring concludes. To assist regional landowners - in particular those who experienced wildfires and who are now finding themselves badly affected by aggressive and almost irreversible regrowth of aliens - SCLI is hosting a training workshop on invasive plant management for landowners in the Brenton, Knysna, Plett, Goukamma and Rheenendal areas. The workshop will be facilitated by SCLI on Thursday March 19 in the Brenton-on-Sea community hall, followed by a practical session. Landowners who are interested in attending the workshop can contact the SCLI Secretariat directly at marti.kirstein@gmail.com or visit http://www.scli.org. za for more information. • The Southern Cape Landowners Initiative is a public platform and think tank for landowners and land managers with an interest in invasive alien plant management, water stewardship and land management. SCLI is supported by the Table Mountain Fund a subsidiary of WWF SA and also manages the Secretariat of the Garden Route Environmental Forum.
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RONAVIRUS
SCHOOL NEWS
BUSINESS
18 March 2020
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Learn from the likes of Volkswagen and Red Bull when dealing with tough economic times OUTH Africa’s economy has seen better days. With the addition of the coronavirus outbreak, the current state-of-affairs is not looking promising. “Exploiting this recession may be the only strategy for survival,” says Ian Rheeder, head of Markitects Consulting. Since 1994 South Africa has had three recessions (2008, 2009, 2018/19). On average, a ‘recession’ lasts for two years, followed by a boom, and is generally defined as two quarters (six months) of a consecutive falling GDP. This has placed many companies, individuals and investors in a tough position because profits are dwindling, and the cost of living has skyrocketed. “The only way to survive is to exploit this downswing to maintain your growth strategy. So, to cushion those sectors that are in recession, I’ve arrived at the strategic perspective that marketing strategies during turbulent times are not much different from boom time strategies. “The difference is that
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these strategies need to be so much more polished when your sector’s growth is in decline. The proverbial ‘pie’ still exists, it’s just smaller. Finding success in a recessionary climate is quite credible; you just have to think out-of-thebox and not lose sight of success,” adds Rheeder. He offers the following strategies for businesses to consider during these tough times: Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning (STP Strategy) Imagine dating the wrong customer segment, only to find out after years of servicing that it was a waste of time? According to Rheeder, rather target satisfied and attractive opportunity segments instead of low return ‘headache’ segments. For example, the construction sector is contracting (-5.9%) but finance is growing (+2.7%). Alternatively, consider dropping non-profitable, slow paying, unsatisfied customers in these segments, or raise their price to milk them. Furthermore, consider
withdrawing from weak segments where your Competitive Unique Selling Propositions (CUSP) aren’t valued much, and target segments you can dominate with your CUSPs after the recession. Attack and/or Attack-proof Keep doing your research as some companies with strong financials will see this tough economic climate as an opportunity to attack. This is what is exciting about a recession - it’s an opportunity to exceed your targets, as many competitors understand that, sometimes, the tree of economic freedom needs to be nourished with a battle. But beware of counter-attacks. Rather go unnoticed by flying below the radar. Red Bull, for instance, did this by first ‘stealing’ Coca-Cola’s shelf-space, and could now do a frontal-attack and launch a Cola. Marketing Mix Strategies Product: See the recession through your customers’ eyes. Due to competitive forces, buyers may have developed a new shopping-list of wants; the basic-product
CAPITALISE ON RECESSION: Ian Rheeder has trained thousands of marketers and leaders; he holds an MSc in Leadership and facilitates persuasion skills - marketing, sales and leadership - at The Gordon Institute of Business Science
(i.e. car) for instance may not be as important now as the expected/augmentedproduct (i.e. value-added guarantee, after-sale service, interest rates). Your product lifecycle may have also become stale, and now requires a few revitalised features to regain its growth trajectory (i.e. the VW Citi Golf just needed a name change and GT-stripes). Withdraw your weak low
profit margin/slow moving ‘dogs’ that are likely to fail, and research and revitalise new economy ‘questionmarks and recession-stars’, known as ‘fighter-brands’. Price: Also, during a recession, customers ponder longer on decisions that sacrifices their budgets. Dropping your price may seem attractive, but it comes with the challenge of struggling to increase it at a later stage, so at least attempt to maintain your prices. Recent research by Nielsen in South Africa shows that price discounts only lift sales temporarily and hurt brand equity over the long-term. Rather emotionally differentiate and charge a premium. If your product is the lowprice leader, then aggressively emphasise your penetration pricing, as low price is a relevant recession CUSP. Promote your brand: Calling on your most valuable and loyal existing customers has superior results versus finding new ones. They are also the easiest to cross-sell and up-sell to, and get you free word-ofmouth referrals.
Consider a Key Account Management (KAM) mindset - when you see a strategic client, don’t just pop-in and sell, but be a management consultant and enthusiastically assist them with their business model. Research shows evidence that in a recession, the marketer who’s share-of-voice (SOV) is larger than their share-of-market (SOM) is likely to grow market share. However, you still need a great share-of-experience (SOE) - customer experience management (CEM) is always key. Rheeder concludes by saying that during a drought, some will thrive and exploit the fragile. “Sometimes the fragile may be the industry leader; so, if you are the leader, you need to understand how you will be attacked. Know how to cushion an attack. “Those who survive natural selection will be stronger, more experienced and will improve their DNA. Finally, never forget that constantly implementing a small series of changes, results in a big transformation,” he says.
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CXPRESS
INTERVAL
18 March 2020
Keep on smiling short and sweet… On the elevator I got a lift to the eleventh floor, and as I got out, the operator said: “Have a good day, son.” “Don’t call me son,” I said. “You’re not my dad.” The operator scratched his head, and said: “No, but I brought you up, didn’t I?”
Pictures of you My five-year-old daughter drew a nice picture of a princess and beautiful flowers and sunshine. She then brought the picture to her daddy and said: “Daddy, this is a picture of you and me... but I don’t have time to draw you.”
Silence is golden Steve phoned his dentist when he received a huge bill after his last visit. “I’m shocked!” he complained. “This is three times what you normally charge me.” “Yes, I know,” said the dentist. “But you yelled so loud, you scared away two other patients.”
Ancestry “My ancestry goes back all the way to Alexander the Great,” said Christine. She then turned to Miriam and asked: “How far back does your family go?” “I don’t know,” replied Miriam, “all of our records were lost in the flood.”
To lie or not to lie Mary Jones was debating on the best means of dropping her current flame. Her friend asked: “Are you worried because you think he’ll spread lies about you?” Mary answered: “I don’t mind the lies, but if he ever tells the truth I will break his neck!” An educated fool A student at a management school came up to a pretty girl and hugged her without any warning. The surprised girl asked: “What was that?” The guy smiled at her: “Direct marketing!” Not amused, the girl slapped him soundly. “What was that?!” said the boy, holding his cheek. “Customer feedback.” Possible road rage A hesitant driver, waiting for a traffic jam to clear, came to a complete stop. Traffic thinned, but the driver still waited. Finally, a furious voice from the vehicle behind him cried: “The sign says to yield, not give up!” 1
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Marrying a widow A friend of mine recently announced that he was going to marry a widow. A member of the group indicated that he would not like being the second husband of a widow. My friend replied: “I would rather be the second husband of a widow than the first.” Just jump When her husband came home unexpectedly, the young wife opened the window and told her lover to jump. “Are you mad? This is the 13th floor!” he replied, shocked. “Just jump, this is no time for superstitions!”
Picture this! New York attorney representing a wealthy art collector calls his client and says: “Saul, I have some good news and I have some bad news.” The art collector replies: “I’ve had an awful day; let’s hear the good news first.” The attorney says: “Well, I met with your wife today, and she informed me that she invested $5,000
on two pictures that she thinks will bring a minimum of $15-20 million. I think she could be right.” Saul replies enthusiastically: “Well done! My wife is a brilliant businesswoman! You’ve just made my day. Now I know I can handle the bad news. What is it?” The attorney answers: “The pictures are of you with your secretary.”
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Assault and battery A man was arraigned for assault and battery and brought before the judge. Judge: “What is your name, occupation, and what offence are you charged with?” Prisoner: “My name is Sparky, I am an electrician and I’m charged with battery.” Judge (after recovering his equilibrium): “Officer, put this guy in a dry cell.” 4
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ent book Testam 14 Old (7) (5) 16 Fiddle (5)
s? — narcotic
R B A L A I A Y DN O G E N Z E E R OT H P O F A R R E R AN T N T E K L Y
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S U P P L E H E U E I I T B L A C K E N H W R A O E AD L I B F I R Y L F C H E E S E C L G O N A R A B B I T S S E B G I A T R I L L V AG E E O E N L E S S ON WE
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SOCIAL SCENE
18 March 2020
People, places & events TOURISM CHIEF V ‘THE VIRUS’: A beautiful Friday morning, March 13 saw the Visit Knysna (a division of Wesgro) Stakeholders Engagement held on the brand new balcony of Sedgefield’s beach restaurant Pili Pili. The sweeping views of Myoli were breath-taking, with many a familiar face in the tourism industry eager to meet and listen to Wesgro’s new chief of tourism, Margie Whitehouse - pictured with Visit Knysna GM Colleen Durant at left. With more than 25 years’ experience in marketing, Margie’s focus is on building exceptional brands. A three-year stint as SA Tourism CMO was followed by her recent work on the Red Sea Development Project in the Middle East, but being passionate about SA, she came home to grow the tourism industry here - then stepped into her new post as a worldwide pandemic was declared! The coronavirus was her main topic of discussion on Friday and she urged everyone to get together and find great ideas to combat the economic dive that tourism will suffer. “Crises pull us together and we have to think fresh. I came to hear and listen to you, so let’s find a way forward through this.” She went on to say that with small budgets, we must work on connectivity and keeping guests staying longer. “Make people so happy that they don’t want to leave.” Fortunately, given the president’s announcement on travel bans, many tourists won’t be able to leave, anyway… Below, Margie shares her motivational ideas with Garden Route tour operators and small business owners. - Talia Day Halderman
PAIR WINE WITH FINE MEXICAN FARE: It’s been a fruitful 16 years for the family Polson since moving to Plett from Pretoria. With firm connections in the Mexican art, craft, food and beverage industry, regular trips to this colourful country ensured that only top products were imported. They traded in these unique goods at the Old Shed down in Piesang Valley with great success. Then the opportunity arose four years ago to invade the fabulous space at 29 on Main, and Mike and Louné made the move to Plett CBD. Being the area’s sole importers of Mexican beer, tequila and mescal, they have often been asked to add nachos and tacos to their in-store offerings so have recently launched a ‘taqueria’, which means you can now enjoy dinkum Mexican bites with your lunch-break beverages. A bonus for local wine lovers is Mike’s connection with the folk at South Hill Vinyards in the beautiful Elgin Valley, which means that 29 on Main is now the only outlet other than the farm where these prize wines can be tasted, admired, and acquired. In fact, their collaboration has been appreciated during a handful of ‘tequila, mescal and wine tastings’ where local restaurateurs have been treated to these liquid treasures paired with samples from the taqueria’s menu. This distinctive combination has also enticed several wedding parties to use the venue, at no cost, for pre-nuptial meet and greets. The fact that local products such as Bramon bubbly are stocked is an added bonus for visitors. Pictured at top left, South Hill’s Nic King regales guests with back stories on the estate’s array of excellent wines during a tasting earlier this month. At left, Jason Ferreira and Clayton Bischoff of The Table and Surf Café respectively, compare notes during the same happy gathering.
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INCLUSIVE TAXI TEAM BRANCHES TO BITOU: Plettenberg Bay Taxi Association joined CODETA (Cape Organisation for a Democratic Taxi Association) during a well-attended celebration held at Formosa Primary School on Saturday March 14, when the organisation’s Bitou branch was officially launched. Theodora Mamfengu - pictured third from left above with a gaggle of elegantly-clad associates - has served as the secretary of what used to be Plett Taxi Association, so earning respect and owning her space in a traditionally male-dominated industry. CODETA was established in 1990 in Cape Town and launched that same year at Goodwood Stadium in the presence of 50,000 people. After initial teething problems, the association found a home in the centre of Khayelitsha’s Kuwait Taxi Rank, whence it runs 42 branches and a head office entrusted with transporting people to and from all nine provinces, as well as extended services to SADC countries, with routes going as far as Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia and Zambia. According to its website, CODETA has grown from a predominately male association into an inclusive collective with a sizeable number of women taxi owners who have a voice in the dayto-day running of the association. “The foundation of the association depends on the wisdom of the executive, and its future lies in its youth,” according to the site. Celebrating the advent with Theodora, second from left are, from left, Charlot Mintoor, Plett branch chairman Gwellym Marais, Nosipo Spopo, and Siziphiwe Tonisi. - Vinthi Neufeld
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CXPRESS
CLASSIFIEDS
18 March 2020
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ON THE SOAPBOX
18 March 2020
Letters to the Editor
Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600
Why stoke fires of racial hatred, based on a lie? I am not surprised at all by the vitriol spewed at FW de Klerk for his utter lack of sensitivity at what apartheid did to our black fellow countrymen. He, of all people, should know how they suffered under a totally inhumane regime; but for all whites to be judged by the same yardstick is disingenuous. There were many whites who opposed apartheid, some of them even went
to jail for their anti-apartheid beliefs and/or for being ANC supporters. For your letter writer [turn to page 11 of the March 4 edition at www. cxpress.co.za] to say that whites remained silent and did not condemn or criticise De Klerk’s comments is an utter lie, as no doubt proven by a quick Google search. Furthermore, the writer should read up on what
Remembering Sherlock author’s praise of a most rugged race As a fourth generation South African of English extract, I believe Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s letter [see below] is very well worth republishing. It was first published during the Boer War, which raged from 1899 to 1902. I have always found this war a total disgrace to Britain, who at the time
was cruel and greedy. The Boers were our fellow South Africans, whose farms were raised and homes burnt down. They were put into concentration camps but, as there was not enough food and water in the camps to keep them alive, thousands died in these camps. Gordon Button, Plett
Tribute to the Boer, a brave foe Rev JOHN NEWTON JOHNSON of Oudtshoorn wrote the piece below around the time the new millennium dawned, and a century since the Boer War was commemorated
With the centenary of the Anglo Boer War in full swing at present, the press has certainly done its job well in regaling us with interesting information, recently discovered historical facts, and new perspective on this sad yet fascinating chapter in our national saga. Something that seems to have slipped everyone’s attention, though, is the following most interesting quote from the very well-known author and creator of the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It comes from the introduction to his book The Great Boer War. What makes it so noteworthy a quote - indeed, tribute - is that it was written about a military enemy at a time when the war was still raging. “Take a community of Dutchmen of the type of those who defended themselves for 50 years against all the power of Spain, at a time when Spain was the greatest power in the world. “Intermix with them a strain of those inflexible French Huguenots who gave up home and fortune and left their country for ever at the time of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. The product must obviously be one of the most rugged, virile, un-
conquerable races ever seen upon Earth. “Take this formidable people and train them for seven generations in constant warfare against savage men and ferocious beasts in circumstances under which no weakling could survive. “Place them so that they acquire exceptional skill with weapon and in horsemanship, give them a country which is eminently suited to the tactics of the huntsman, the marksman, and the rider. “Then finally put a finer temper upon their military qualities by a dour fatalistic, Old Testament religion and an ardent and consuming patriotism. Combine all these qualities and all these impulses in one individual and you have the modern Boer - the most formidable antagonist who ever crossed the path of Imperial Britain. “Our military history has largely consisted in our conflicts with France, but Napoleon and all his veterans have never treated us so roughly as these hard-bitten farmers with their ancient theology and their inconveniently modern rifles.” I hope that both you and your readers will find it interesting, as a tribute to a brave foe and as a magnanimous piece of writing by a farsighted man.
the so-called Concerned Group of 10 has said and done in this regard. So why would he try to sow dissension and stoke the fires of racial hatred, based on a lie? What is his agenda? His letter to CXPRESS is riddled with generalisations and illogical deductions. Maybe he somehow missed the news. By the same token, he seems to have missed the atrocities committed by blacks against blacks during the apartheid years. Their numbers far outstrip the numbers killed in the name of apartheid, and these murders cannot be condoned because they were committed by blacks on blacks and were politically rather than racially based - although it does not detract from the fact that apartheid was wrong, terribly wrong. It’s the politicians who want us to remain divided to feed their agendas, based on their selfish desire to remain in power. This is the path that the likes of Malema and his riff-raff want the country to follow, as the EFF feeds
off discord and hatred. And, of course they hope that this will deflect attention away from their own misdeeds, including corruption and fraud, but they will, hopefully, get their day in court to face justice and eventually answer for what they have done. This is also why they are so vehemently vociferous in their condemnation of Pravin Gordhan, for it is highly likely he will lead the charge against them. There is hope and many signs that blacks and whites can live together in harmony. One of these is to see how we all unite in support of our cricket and rugby teams. No one can say today that Rabada, Nigidi and Bavuma do not deserve to be in the team. And the way the black team members of the Sharks have performed of late shows that they truly deserve to be in the team. May these signs of harmony and goodwill filter through to ordinary society, where they are still sorely lacking. Gavin Barnard, Plett
More kudos for health care in our province After reading Mr Twidle’s letter regarding Western Cape hospitals [turn to page 11 of the March 11 edition and read ‘Hats off to Knysna Provincial and George Regional hospitals’], I would like to share my story on behalf of the family of Clinton Marius (pictured below). Recently we had dealings with Knysna Provincial Hospital, George Regional Hospital, and Groote Schuur in Cape Town. The encounter also involved EMS and AMS [Emergency Medical Services and the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service]. Within 30 hours, our young brother was seen in Knysna, referred to George, and flown to Groote Schuur. We have high regard and praise for the outstanding CLINTON MARIUS (20 August 1966 26 February 2020): Pietermaritzburgborn playwright and actor Clinton Marius relocated to Knysna from Durban along with his partner at Copy Dog Productions, William Charlton-Perkins, and marketing director Riaan Timson, to start the Knysna Theatre project in pursuit of giving local artists a platform to perform. His sudden passing is mourned by friends and fans countrywide.
service we received from all staff involved. They were astute, professional, caring, compassionate, kind, honest, gentle, supportive, and empathetic to our feelings and needs. We have been humbled by our experience with these dedicated, hardworking and selfless public servants, and saying ‘thank you’ does not reflect our depth of gratitude. To mention everybody by name would take up pages. Western Cape Health Care Service providers, may you proudly continue with your outstanding unconditional works and deeds that clearly reflect the values of our provincial department of health. May you reap the blessings you have sown. Lynnette Wilkinson, Knysna
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18 March 2020
Fans worldwide left hanging as Super Rugby, Six Nations et al postponed indefinitely Soon after Plett resident and former ref BARRY RICKETTS penned this - the first of a planned CXPRESS series of Rugby Round-ups - it became clear that it may well be his last for the foreseeable future... ROUND the time of writing, the 2020 Super Rugby season was in serious doubt: New Zealand had ordered everyone entering the country to self-isolate for 14 days in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus; then SANZAAR proceeded to suspend the season until fur-
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ther notice. This will disappoint all South African rugby followers - especially Sharks fans, as they currently see their team deservedly at the top of the log. When Super Rugby kicked off again this February, coastal South African fans had reason to feel
good: the Stormers and Sharks raced to the top of the table, while the Bulls and Lions, both in a rebuilding phase, floundered near the bottom. The Sharks’ excellent results on tour, and then Saturday’s win over the Stormers, secured their spot at the top of the SA
Let’s rip Nippers Nationals! Doh, no go for now...
This photo shot on Sunday afternoon shows some of Plett’s Nippers and coaches proudly displaying their magnificent Mungo-sponsored towels and raring to depart for the Lifesaving SA Nationals scheduled to start in Port Elizabeth on March 19. Of course, by Sunday evening it was clear that this eagerly-anticipated event would be cancelled as part of countrywide measures to prevent spreading of the coronavirus. Plett Surf Lifesaving Club (PSLC) chairman James Stewart thanks all sponsors for their support of the Nationals 2020 campaign. Visit the PSLC Facebook page to find out how the committee plans to deal with the pandemic on a practical scale, and for news on club opening hours during the extended school holidays. James added that, as race director of the Buco Adventure Weekend normally set for Easter [read more on p12 of the March 11 edition at www.cxpress.co.za], he was positive that an apt future date would be found for the new-format multi-sports event to be run, cycled and paddled. Watch this space for more on Plett’s top adventure sports event! - Photo: Glenn Murray
conference. The Stormers’ overseas tour is now indefinitely postponed, but poor results there would surely have sealed their fate. None of the Australian teams look top-three contenders, though the Rebels are churning out some remarkable results and the Brumbies are scoring plenty of tries. Can they sustain their form through this enforced break, though? In spite of the Chiefs narrowly losing two home matches, they, the Blues and the ever-consistent Crusaders look the business. Then again, one seldom finds a weak Kiwi team. All their squads are packed with past and present All Black players, and they are scoring freely at home and away. We should have learned who were to be Six Nations Champions 2020 this weekend, but the final round of matches had also been postponed indefinitely. England and France ended equal on points, but England had the easier fix-
ture to come against Italy, who frankly looked out of their depth at this level. France ruined their chances of a Grand Slam with another red card following an injudicious punch in their match against Scotland. Discipline on the field remains a problem for the French, but there has been a record number of red cards in both the Six Nations and Super Rugby this year, primarily for high tackles. Many of these have been contentious, and often ruin the match as a contest. Even yellow cards are given for a passing slap on the ear, especially in Sevens Rugby. Just that instinctive action can cost a team the match. Though I understand the player safety aspect, I feel the intent of the tackler should be taken into consideration more than is currently the case. No-one I have spoken to has satisfactorily explained to me how a would-be tackler can legally bring down an opponent running straight at him with
his head below waist level, without grabbing him around the shoulder area. In the old amateur days, most defenders would just push the ball-carrier’s head into the mud, or swing an arm around his head or shoulders and go down with him… same result! We have also been thrilled by our Blitzbokke this past fortnight. Their comebacks in the LA Sevens were unbelievable, and they play exciting stuff compared to the slower style of some of the other countries. Nevertheless, they will need more consistency and a few of their stars back, especially Rosko Specman and Ruhan Nel, if they are going to win gold at the Tokyo Olympics. That’s presupposing Covid-19 doesn’t ruin it for everyone! And finally, some trivia: Of those that played in more than 50 tests, which Springbok player has the highest winning percentage? Answer: Gurthrö Steenkamp, winning 41 of his 53 tests, at 77%.
Business League concludes with The Worx claiming narrow victory over VIPs OME 20 years ago, Neville Whittaker initiated the first bowling Business League at Plettenberg Bay Bowling Club (PBBC). The initial tournament involved just 12 teams, but became increasingly popular - to the point where a capacity 42 teams currently take part in this bi-annual six-week event. Much of this success can be attributed to the sponsorship by Helen Melon Properties for the past five years,
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which has been proving most rewarding for all concerned. This summer’s Business League came to an exciting climax last Tuesday evening, when the top two teams played off for the Division I title. Team VIPs comfortably beat the log-leaders The Worx to claim the Cup, but failed by just two points to overtake them for the top League position. Just one point further back in third place - on an
BOWLS IS BIG BUSINESS: League winners The Worx - from left are Daron Smit, Peter Collins and Mark Edington - are flanked by sponsor Helen Ward and PBBC second-incommand Richard Ashton
admirable 83 points - was the team representing Beacon Isle Vet Shop. Division II was won by Rowan Turf and Golf with 66 points, followed by Plett Build-It on 60 points and Eco Rubber on 59. The tournament was blessed with fine weather for the duration of the six weeks, and all participants certainly enjoyed themselves in this well-run event played in a highly-competitive but friendly spirit.
VERY IMPORTANT INDEED: Pictured with sponsor Helen Ward, this year’s Business League Cup winners were Team VIPs of, from left, Jacques de Jongh, John Moyes and Charles Lord