23 November 2016

23 November 2016

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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Photo: Timothy Twidle

Last Friday, the Crowd Control unit of Bitou Municipality’s Public Safety force gave a demonstration of techniques used to deal with unruly behaviour read more on page 4.

Ready for action Residents cry ‘corruption!’ - p3

Bitou Municipal update - p8-10

Movember news for men - p13

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NEWS & VIEWS

23 November 2016

Weskus stories: The goose, the gander, and the heron Sporadic CXPRESS contributor DEREK FRIELINGHAUS and his better half, Trish, trekked west recently and returned to Plett full of stories, the tale below being of a feathery nature N a recent visit to the “Weskus”, we spent a week in the town of Velddrif and found a quaint street named Bokkomlaan. One of our favourite spots was EK & DJY Visserei, in Bokkom-

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laan and situated right on the banks of the Berg River.

When we first arrived at the restaurant called EK & DJY Visserei, we noticed an unusual pair - a gander and a heron patrolling the banks of the

LONESOME COMPANIONS: The heron and the gander

river together. We were told that a dodgy foreign national had eaten the gander’s mate, so he paired up with the heron for companionship.

The next day we visited again as we were so taken by the excellent location, the friendly people and the good food.

Just before tucking into our breakfast, brought by the waitress across the dusty road to the jetty where the tables are placed, a bakkie pulled up.

The driver took a box out of the back, and brought it to the water’s edge.

He opened it and gently took out a young goose. This was to be the mate to replace the one that the gander had lost.

We were fascinated as the young goose moved towards the pair (gander and heron) who took off in horror, with the gander honking loudly.

The poor young goose wandered around the jetty making pitiful mewing sounds and looking totally lost and bewildered.

The family who owns the restaurant tried feeding her but she was inconsolable as she was used to a small farm dam.

But fortunately, curiosity bought the unlikely pair of gander and heron back to the social side of the river - and in no time the gander was showing an interest in the young goose.

We returned the next day and there, on our side of the river, we spotted the two white birds and the long neck of the heron.

All were happy, which meant that the owners of EK & DJY Visserei could relax once again.

And the goose-gobbling foreign national was put straight as to the dire consequences of anyone messing around with the birds on their river…

SAVIOUR: The arrival of the young goose

MEET AND GREET: All three in a quandary

DOH... : The flight of the heron and gander away from the young goose

TRUE LOVE: The start of something new between the goose and the gander - after only an hour, the heron joined in the fun

NEWS & VIEWS

23 November 2016

Residents up in arms over Bitou’s proposed break with Eden land-use tribunal Plettenberg Bay residents have until tomorrow [November 24] to comment on a proposal for Bitou to exit from the Eden Joint Planning Tribunal and establish its own land-use planning tribunal - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports N November 3, Bitou Municipality informed the public through an advertisement that council resolved to obtain input from residents about its land-use proposal, and the deadline for comment being three weeks later.

The Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act 16 of 2013 (Spluma) is a national law passed in 2013, and which came into effect on July 1, 2015.

The Act devolves the power of final decision over land-use applications down from provincial government to local government level. This is achieved through the creation of land-use tribunals that consists of at least five members - including members of the local municipality in question - and civilian members with experience in land-use matters.

The Act allows local government the option of establishing either its own

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independent tribunal or joining forces with other municipalities in the area to form a joint tribunal.

Last year council opted to form a joint land-use tribunal with members of Eden District Municipality.

Some of the reasons included cost-effectiveness, as professional staff and experts would have had to be appointed to spread the potential of bias and safeguard against corruption, and the benefits of sharing expertise.

Since the advertisement, there has been large-scale opposition to the proposal, including a petition among residents against it.

The petition states that an independent local landuse tribunal should not be allowed, firstly because a joint Eden tribunal enjoyed the expertise of a number of highly knowledgeable planning officials from the Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, as

well as other private legal experts who specialise in land-use matters.

Another reason residents opposed the proposal was that land-use tribunals were costly to sustain, and that currently costs were shared between the different tribunal members.

Residents also fear that leaving control of the appeal authority and the power to influence the election of tribunal members in the hands of a select few, would be opening the door to “corruption”.

The municipality did not respond to questions about the proposal before going to print.

Comments on the move can be sent to Private Bag X1002, Plettenberg Bay, 6600, emailed to cschle mann @plett.gov.za or hand delivered to the Department of Strategic Services, Office 2, Church Street, Plett by November 24.

Garden Route Media

Armed robbery in Wittedrift makes it five Yolandé Stander hits in just over a month Wittedrift shop became the fifth target in a series of business robberies over the past month. Plett police spokesman Captain Marlene Pieterse said that two armed suspects allegedly entered the Wittedrift General Dealer at about 7:15pm on November 19.

“The suspects pointed firearms at the owners and told them to get down on the floor,” Pieterse said, and added that the suspects then tied the three owners’ hands behind their backs before another three suspects entered the business. “They searched the place for money.”

Pieterse said the men man-

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aged to get away with a large sum of money, cigarettes worth an estimated R9,000, as well as five cellphones.

“They took the keys of the shop, closed the gate, and fled on foot.”

It is believed that one of the suspects was wearing a camouflage cap. Pieterse added that no arrests had been made yet and that police were investigating.

Anyone with information can contact detective Constable Kova on 044 501 1937 or 533 501 1641.

Since October 12, there have been several similar robberies in and around Plettt. On November 1, five

men entered the U-Save in KwaNokuthula at 9am.

Armed with handguns, they gathered the shoppers and staff and demanded cash before leaving with a large sum of money. They fled in a champagne-coloured Mercedes Benz with a CA-number plate.

A similar car was used as a getaway when Zanzibar restaurant in Plett CBD was targeted on October 19.

The week before saw an early-hour robbery at the Engen garage in Beacon Way on October 13, and another the previous evening when a Kranshoek shop was robbed.

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NEWS & VIEWS

23 November 2016

Bitou public safety force ready for busy festive season Words & photos: Timothy Twidle

IN SYNC: Members of the Bitou Public Safety force, above, impress during the parade at their annual inspection last Friday; at left mayor Peter Lobese greets members of Bitou Law Enforcement after the parade - from left are Charmaine Pienaar, Andisiwa Nzimela, and Mathabo Ntshoko

ITOU Municipality’s Public Safety force comprising Traffic Services, Law Enforcement, and Fire Services - paraded in full kit for the annual Public Safety Chief Inspection by mayor Peter Lobese on the morning of Friday November 18.

The inspection was held at the Piesang Valley Community Hall under blue skies and in clear sunshine.

Lobese was accompanied by acting municipal manager David Friedman,

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SAFETY FIRST: From left are Bitou mayoral spokesperson Manfred van Rooyen, mayor Peter Lobese, councillor Monica Seyisi, acting municipal manager David Friedman, Community Services head Monde Stratu, and Public Safety senior manager Andile Sakati

head of the Community Services department Monde Stratu, and senior manager of Public Safety, Andile Sakati.

A meticulous performance of marching and parade ground drill were given by 33 Public Safety officers, after which the mayor inspected a guard of honour and was given an overview of the vehicles and equipment used to maintain safety, law, and order in the municipality.

A demonstration was

also carried out by the Crowd Control unit, of the techniques employed to control riotous and unruly behaviour.

In an address to the members of Bitou Public Safety, Lobese said: “I have been impressed by all that I have seen this morning and I know that we can rest assured that your professionalism, knowledge, and skills will ensure the peace and safety of all the many visitors to Plettenberg Bay over

the coming months of the peak holiday season.”

Friedman and Stratu also spoke, the latter reminding those present that they were “likely to be faced with fresh challenges on each and every day in the months ahead”, and urging them to remain focused on what was required of them at all times.

CXPRESS wishes the staff of Public Safety in Bitou every success in the execution of their duties over the coming season.

NEWS & VIEWS

23 November 2016

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Knysna to install 10,220 new water-management devices ONSIDERING the dire water situation, Knysna Municipality proposes to install more than 10,000 water-management devises over the coming months.

Historically, many areas within Greater Knysna were never charged for water usage. It was then perceived by the municipality that the amount of water consumed by these areas did not warrant the expense of installing water meters, as their usage would be below the

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free National Government basic allocation of 6Kl/m.

This allocation only affects the indigent community and not the more affluent communities.

Today, however, those areas are using on average around 12Kl/m - almost double the free allocation.

This new information led to a Council decision to address the situation.

With the continuous development of technology, a water-management device

SINGLE SOURCE: On November 21, Akkerkloof Dam was 70% full, equating to Knysna having enough water for 40 days - visit www.knysna.gov.za/be-water-wise for water saving tips, and call Knysna Municipality on 044 302 6331 to report any abuse

was developed that can be programmed to provide a daily allocation of water to a maximum of 6Kl/m.

After this allotted amount, the device will automatically switch off the supply to the premises.

The device can also be programmed to a higher allocation and the municipality can then charge for the additional allocation. This technology has been rolled out in the Cape Town Metro, Mossel Bay, and Theewaterskloof with great success.

“Water security in Knysna is of utmost importance.

The cost implication of building dams within the Greater Knysna catchment area is currently out of our reach, so we need to look at different ways to save water,” said acting municipal manager Bevan Ellman.

“Installation of these management devices is one way of allowing us to ensure that water is used sparingly.”

Keep your business premises safe this season LETT SAPS provided these tips to prevent business crime during the festive season: • Try to avoid the accumulation of large amounts of cash in cash registers.

• Keep lines of observation in the business open.

• Keep the premises well illuminated, also on the

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outside.

• Take special precautionary and preventative measures at opening and closing times and do not leave only a single person responsible for opening and locking up of the business.

• Take special precautions with regard to the handling and transporting of cash.

• Devise a security plan, including ways to raise alarm in case of emergency and procedures to follow if suspicious individuals approach or enter the premises.

• Ensure that you have a good alarm system that is well maintained.

• Ensure that panic buttons are tested weekly.

News Briefs • Bitou mayor Peter Lobese will launch the 16 Days of Activism against Women and Child Abuse programme at 10am on Friday November 25 at KwaNokuthula Community Hall.

The programme, which concludes in Kranshoek at 10am on December 10, boasts a full schedule of events that take place throughout all Bitou wards.

Email Csonjani@plett. gov.za at Bitou’s Gender Desk for a copy of the complete line-up, including a fun run from the Bossiesgif

shelter to commemorate World Aids Day on Thursday December 1.

• Following a query in a recent edition about the upgrade of Beacon Way, Bitou’s Engineering Services Project Management head Omar Essa furnished ward councillor Wayne Craig with the information below.

“We have completed the geotechnical investigation and topographical survey on Beacon Way and are currently busy with the detailed design of the road, which includes the road alignment,

walkways, and storm water accommodation.

“We are also liaising with Sanral and Checkers to try to integrate implementation and minimise disruption to road users to the essential minimum, although this will be difficult due to the volume of traffic using Beacon Way. “With the current year’s budget, we plan to complete the design and procurement processes and start with implementation (construction) in the new financial year, i.e. from July 2017.”

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NEWS & VIEWS

23 November 2016

PlettAid team hosts candlelit Mass for Peace this season OLLOWING the most successful performance of Canticles by Candlelight, clever Jill Kirkland is spreading her magic again.

On December 15, members of the combined choirs of Plett, accompanied by talented musicians, will perform The Armed Man - A Mass for Peace by Sir Karl Jenkins - the most performed living composer in the world.

This dramatic choral orchestral work was commissioned by the Royal Armouries Museum as part of the Millennium Celebrations, and to mark the museum’s move from London to Leeds. The world premier was performed at the Albert Hall in April 2000.

The resulting album has been in the classical charts for almost 700 weeks and Jenkins is the first Welsh composer to be knighted during last year’s Birthday Honours.

The Mass marks the transition from one millennium to another and reflects on the passing of ‘the most wartorn and destructive century in human history, while looking forward in hope to a more peaceful future’.

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This sentiment is equally relevant today. It is dedicated to the victims of the Kosovo conflict, whose tragedy was unfolding as the work was being composed. It has become an international musical phenomenon with two performances per week around the world.

Says Lady Annabelle Conyngham of event beneficiaries The PlettAid Foundation: “Our choir and musicians, under the direction of Jill Kirkland, have been practising for months to achieve the exacting standard this music demands. The programme will be produced with the texts and comprehensive footnotes of Stuart Brown, and the performance will be introduced by David Hall-Green.”

Guests are invited to bring their own picnics and beverages, Barnyard-style, and to decorate and lay their own tables at Piesang Valley Community Hall on the Thursday morning. Hampers and baskets need to be delivered by 6pm.

“We aim to make the supper a festive occasion and there will be a prize for the most appealing table setting.

There will be large laid com-

munal refectory tables to accommodate singletons as well as couples,” she says.

Doors open at 7:15pm with a complimentary glass of summer punch on the veranda and the performance will start at 8pm, followed by the picnic supper.

For tickets at R250pp and table reservations, contact Lady Conyngham on 044 533 5178 or email aconyng ham@telkomsa.net.

Payment can be made to The PlettAid Foundation, FNB Plett (code 210514), account no 620 4809 5063, reference: Mass/Your Name.

Quotable quotes • “I adore Karl Jenkins’s compositions. From this quiet, gentle human being comes the most amazing, haunting music that is instantly recognisable and loved across the world.” Dame Kiri Te Kanawa • “Late one night in 1997 across a deserted St Mark’s Square, I saw a painting. Lit like a beacon it drew me inexorably to the window. It made a deep impression on me as it looked like my music sounded. When I later met the artist I discovered that he had been painting to my music.” - Karl Jenkins

BUSINESS

23 November 2016

Luxury retirement living in the heart of Plettenberg Bay

THREE STOREYS OF CARE: An artist’s impression of Plett Platinum, where four different caring levels will be catered for in 32 luxury apartments

LETT Platinum is an exciting new luxury retirement hotel now being launched - a unique retirement facility developed by the CareWell Solutions Group.

Chas Everitt International Property has been appointed joint marketing agency for the development, in which 32 luxury one and two-bedroom sectional title apartments are for sale, all with secure basement parking.

Completion of the apartments - all of which enjoy stunning sea, river and mountain views - is scheduled for mid-2018.

The development consists of a three-storey apartment building plus basement parking. The ground floor will have a reception area, comprehensively equipped luxury

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lounge and dining room, library, gym, spa, aquapool, hairdresser and multi-purpose room.

These facilities will be retained by the developer within their management company. A unique feature of the ground floor is the Frail Care Suite with state of the art care centre and nursing station.

Each floor will have an additional discreet smaller nursing station. Four different caring levels are catered for: Independent living Luxury hotel-style living in your own self-catering apartment, with 10 main three-course dining room or in-house meals per month, weekly apartment cleaning services, 24-hour nurses call system and Registered Nursing Sister.

Assisted living

Living in your own apartment, with meals in the apartment or dining room, cleaning services inclusive of laundry once a week and servicing of apartments twice per week, making of beds, showering and dressing assistance and nursing attention.

Frail care Private en-suite bedrooms with high-care facilities, all meals, morning and afternoon tea, and hot drinks and snacks before bedtime, plus DSTV bouquet in all rooms.

Added-value facilities A unique added-value feature is that the standard monthly Independent Living levy includes FREE Discovery medical aid cover, plus Vitality benefits, and in-hospital Gap cover for a period of five years. There will also

be a bus exclusively available for residents.

Price ranges for the apartments are from R1.9million to R3.7-million inclusive of VAT, transfer duty and conveyancing legal costs.

Purchasing qualifications There is no age restriction for buyers. The properties are therefore ideal buy to let investments. Residents must however be 50 years or older. Tenants would need to subscribe for the standard Independent Living Rate applicable to all owners. Your 10% deposit secures.

For full details, plans and costs, contact John Fuller at Chas Everitt International in Plett on 082 905 1516, or Laurette Storm on 083 281 4069, or email plett@everitt.co.za for additional information.

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23 November 2016

COUNCIL NEWS

COUNCIL NEWS

23 November 2016

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23 November 2016

COUNCIL NEWS

SOCIAL SCENE

23 November 2016

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GUESTS FROM NEAR AND FAR LOVE UK’S BEST: At the last Knysna-Plett Concert of the year, held on November 14, stellar piano duo from Great Britain David Nettle and Richard Markham played music by Frédéric Chopin, Robert Schumann, Johannes Brahms, Camille Saint-Saëns and Sergei Rachmaninov. At the concert were, from left, Monika Lor and Edna Wichern of Sedgefield and Karabo Ramalibana of Pretoria. At left below, Heiner Kluse of Berlin and Rose McGaw of Knysna are flanked by Michael Stadler, left, and Judith Prockl-Stadler of Lake Constance in Germany. - Timothy Twidle

CASH FOR TOP SCORES: Plett Sec top achiever with an over 80% average Jean-Pierre Plaatjies, at centre, and Dux learner Bronico Preissex were recently rewarded for their hard work by pastor Len Levendal on behalf of Elim Care Ministries, JP receiving R1,000 and Bronico, who is also the chairperson of the Representative Council of Learners, taking home R500. We congratulate these sharp Grade 12 students on a job well done and wish them good luck with what’s left of their final exams.

BREAD ISLAND BREATHES AGAIN: When île de pain - the popular Knysna eatery on Thesen Islands that was damaged by fire in May 2015 - reopened on November 8, the first patrons to be seated were, from left, Terry Raats, Craig Smith, Mike St Quintin, Coreta Smith, Jan Raats and Lynne St Quintin. - Timothy Twidle

MUD BATHS AND BROTHERLY LOVE: Ingwe Forest Adventures sponsored a leadership camp for Kwano Cycling Academy on October 29 as one of the prizes for last month’s successful Tour de Plett. Great fun was had, new skills learnt, and LOTS of mud waded through! These young men impressed so much with their commitment and support of each other that Ingwe offered to host this teambuilding experience as an annual event. Check out www.ingwe.org.za for details.

People, places & events

SAY ‘I DO’ TO BOWLING: Saturday November 5 was cause for more than just celebration of Guy Fawkes Day as the Plettenberg Bay Country Club Bowls section played host to a group of 15 young men who were celebrating a Bachelor’s Party. “For once, the average age of bowlers on the greens dropped dramatically,” says the club’s John Swinley. “It was, however, necessary to relax our strict dress code as well as rules about drinks other than tea on the greens.” The groom-to-be, clad in pink above, was Ochse Lombard, who married Licia Pienaar on November 19 in Paarl. Among the group were his brother Hannes and his best-man JJ Stegmann, who organised the event. Teams consisted of three members from the bachelors with one of the more experienced club bowlers providing coaching, moral support and a great time. After nine rounds, the customary tea and cookies were enjoyed before all teams proceeded to finish their games. “According to the comments in our visitor’s book, the bachelors really enjoyed the afternoon and all of them want to have another bowling session when returning to Plett in December,” says John, adding that one of their comments stated ‘best sporting experience of my life!’ The majority said that they could definitely see themselves as regular bowlers in the near future, and gained new respect for the bowlers and their level of skill.

CALDERS TAKE 2/3: Plettenberg Bay Bowling Club held its prize-giving ceremony on October 21. Many thanks go to longest-standing member and past president Joyce Biller - pictured with the Novice Ladies Singles champion Shar Calder, at left - for doing all the presentations, and to everyone who worked behind the scenes to ensure the event’s success.

A really tasty meal and marvellous table arrangements were prepared by the club’s top-class catering team, and a loud shout-out goes to Barry Ricketts and Paul Whiteman for the music compilation. Along with Char, other top performers were Sportsman of the Year Gerrit Teunissen, top right, and Men’s Singles champion Neil Calder - congrats!

MAKE ‘EM SMILE: We are most grateful to Barney Barnard of Barney’s Kiosk at The Market Square in Plett for overseeing a record amount of toys donated towards our 10,000 Wishes campaign (see the advert on page 13), run in partnership with Algoa FM and Rotary. There’s still a little over two weeks left until the December 9 deadline, so if you have previously-loved toys in good condition clogging up your cupboards, please drop ‘em off in our 10,000 Wishes boxes at Barney’s Kiosk, at The Market on Main, or at the CXPRESS office at 6 Park Lane.

Knysna readers can drop their gifts off at the tourism offices in Knysna and Sedgefield or at Food Lovers Market in Waterfront Drive.

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INTERVAL

23 November 2016

A few light moments in court • Attorney: “What was the first thing your husband said to you that morning?”

Witness: “He said ‘Where am I, Cathy?’”

Attorney: “And why did that upset you?”

Witness: “My name is Susan!”

• Attorney: “What gear were you in at the moment of the impact?”

Witness: “Gucci sweats and Reeboks.”

• Attorney: “Are you sexually active?”

Witness: “No, I just lie there.”

• Attorney: “What is your date of birth?”

Witness: “July 18th.”

Attorney: “What year?”

Witness: “Every year.”

• Attorney: “How old is

your son, the one living with you?”

Witness: “38 or 35, I can’t remember which.”

Attorney: “How long has he lived with you?”

Witness: “45 years.”

• Attorney: “This myasthenia gravis, does it affect your memory at all?”

Witness: “Yes.” Attorney: “And in what ways does it affect your memory?”

Witness: “I forget.”

Attorney: “You forget?

Can you give us an example of something you forgot?”

• Attorney: “The youngest son, the 20-year-old, how old is he?”

Witness: “He’s 20, much like your IQ.” • Attorney: “How was

A handsome tip man takes his place in the cinema, but his seat is too far from the screen.

He whispers to the usher: “This is a mystery, and I have to watch a mystery close up. Get me a better seat, and I’ll give

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you a handsome tip.”

The usher moves him into the second row, and the man hands the usher R5.

The usher looks at the coin in his hand, leans over and whispers: “The wife did it.”

Stay calm... and don’t get nervous ATIENT one: “Why did you run away from the operation table?”

Patient two: “The nurse was repeatedly saying ‘don’t get nervous’, ‘don’t be afraid’, ‘be strong’,

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‘this is a small operation only’, things like that.”

Patient one: “So what was wrong with that?

Why were you so afraid?”

Patient two: “She was talking to the surgeon.”

your first marriage terminated?”

Witness: “By death.”

Attorney: “And by whose death was the marriage terminated?”

Witness: “Take a guess.”

• Attorney: “Can you describe the individual?”

Witness: “He was about medium height and had a

beard.”

Attorney: “Was this a male or a female?”

Witness: “Unless the circus was in town, I’m going with male.”

• Attorney: “Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I sent to your attorney?”

Witness: “No, this is how I dress when I go to work.”

Crossing the road ON is trying to cross the street. As he steps off the curb, a car comes screaming around the corner and heads straight for him.

Jon walks faster, trying to hurry across the street but the car changes lanes and is still coming at him.

So, Jon turns around to go back, but the car changes lanes again and is still coming at him.

By now, the car is so

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close and Jon so scared that he just freezes and stops in the middle of the road.

The car gets real close, then swerves at the last possible moment and screeches to a halt right next to Jon. The driver rolls down the window. The driver is a squirrel.

The squirrel says to Jon: “See, it’s not as easy as it looks, is it?”

HOME & HEALTH

23 November 2016

Early detection and treatment is key in beating male cancers ALL it pride, gung-ho manliness, or an unreasonable fear of having those nether regions examined by a doctor, men tend to ignore health symptoms and hope for the best, usually only consulting a doctor when things have progressed to serious discomfort.

As part of Movember’s Male Cancer Awareness month, the focus is on the importance of early detection and treatment of prostate and testicular cancers, two of the most curable cancers if caught early.

“The lifetime risk for prostate cancer is one in 26, according to the National Cancer Registry, while testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged from 15-39 years,” explains Susan Gonnermann of Hollard Life.

“It’s important to know that both prostate and testicular cancers have a very good cure rate if detected and treated early.”

Claims figures from Hollard Life consistently show that across critical illness, death and disability income benefits, cancer is the number two claims cause after heart disease. And of all the male cancer claims, 70% are for prostate and colon cancer.

Other cancers not exclu-

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THAT’S A MO, BRO: This may be an extreme case, but here’s a big thumbs up to men all over South Africa who are supporting the Movember campaign by sprouting moustaches for the male cancer cause

sive to men such as colon/ bowel cancer are increasing in male claims stats, competing head on with the incidence of prostate cancer.

Proactive, annual health checks and responding to your body’s cues promptly with a doctor’s visit cannot be emphasised enough.

Planning for the unthinkable Hollard Product and Technical head Ryan Chegwidden emphasises the importance of understanding the implications of cancer for your financial security - an often emotional and challenging conversation to have with a financial advisor.

But given the prevalence of cancer in our modern lifestyles, it’s an important conversation to have with a professional advisor who can help formulate a financial plan.

“Modern medical advanc-

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es make it easier to detect and successfully treat cancer before it becomes invasive.

The good news is that we are starting to see higher claims rates for stage one and two cancers, which indicates that men are heeding the call for early detection and proactive heath checks.

“However, early detection doesn’t necessarily reduce the unexpected cost of treatment,” says Ryan, adding that you could face serious financial repercussions because most critical illness policies do not cover you for early-stage cancer.

“Chances are that if you have critical illness cover, even comprehensive cover, an early cancer claim where the cancer is localised and not invading surrounding tissue, or pre-malignant, will be excluded under the policy definitions,” he adds.

Commit to annual health check-ups and get financially fit Male cancers can be beaten if detected early, so get those annual health checkups in place. Finally, get financially fit to prepare for whatever curve balls life may throw at you, so that the only thing you will need to worry about is your return to health.

Visit https://za.movember. com for more information.

Warm up your beds this summer

BRIGHT BUDDIES: Marigolds and Zinnias, right, are great companions as both enjoy basking in full sun while being drought and heat tolerant

F it’s warm, rich colours you are after, then these November companions are perfect for you.

Marigolds are first up, offering their warm sunny colours for most of the year and outlasting many other annuals. Their colourful flowers come in shades of orange, yellow, red and bi-coloured, with many flower shapes and sizes to choose from.

Zinnia is our other hot flowery friend and make for great festive colour in any garden with its upright green foliage and kaleido-

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scope of warm and inviting colours.

Marigolds Modern Marigold hybrids are very uniform in growth and stay compact, making them a superb choice.

Whether you have a border or edging that needs creating, a container that needs filling, a vegetable patch that needs a natural pesticide or just a dry sunny flowerbed begging for some company, Marigolds can fill that gap.

They also look very attractive when inter-planted with other bedding plants

like salvias, purple basil or verbenas.

Zinnias Great companions for Marigolds, Zinnias also enjoy basking in full sun and are very drought and heat tolerant. To promote a longer flowering period, deadhead spent blooms to encourage new ones to bud.

Zinnias are butterfly and bee magnets, bringing much-needed life to spring gardens. They are perfect for containers or as a bold border for your garden beds.

Visit www.lifeisagarden. co.za for more information.

New or 2nd hand toys THANK YOU!

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23 November 2016

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

23 November 2016

Letters to the Editor

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

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It’s not a ‘hiding’ but rather appropriate child Long-line commercial fishing often leads to children reat Solar Beach - who cares? protection that is required canting what they said in We refer to a letter from WE Harrison contained in CXPRESS of November 16 [read ‘Child needs a hiding and parents need to pay up’ on page 11 of that edition at www.cxpress.co.za].

Few of us understand the anxiety experienced when testifying in court as a witness or complainant, particularly when the alleged event took place many months before the trial and was, in itself, an unpleasant experience.

It is traumatic enough for adults with life experience to be placed in this situation, but imagine a special-needs child who was born without the faculties that we take for granted in our daily lives.

The only testimony that is admissible in a trial is that given on the day of the trial. The interviews with legal people, social workers and the like are irrelevant, as the accused is entitled to have sight of the complainant and hear the testimony given in court.

A typical day in the life of each of us will include both positive and negative external stimuli which influence the way in which we react to situations. This is very relevant to children, especially those with a sensitive disposition.

At no time was it inferred that the child referred to in WE Harrison’s letter deviated from the truth in any way, but if there is the slightest smidgeon of doubt in the mind of the court, it is obliged to acquit the accused which

is exactly what transpired on November 3 in Knysna Regional Court.

The Green Hearts is an NPO driven by the need to protect children from any and all abuse. We believe that the justice system as it is now, does not offer sufficient or appropriate protection to children who are victims.

We are passionate in our endeavours to change the unacceptable conditions that children in certain courts are subjected to, which compound the stresses and fears that are already present in their worlds.

We trust that WE Harrison is better able to understand the predicament that the victim in the case referred to faced.

On the day, the child was placed in an untenable position, after cross examination, when the defence posed leading questions which resulted in the smallest element of doubt being introduced.

The Green Hearts of Plettenberg Bay, Plett --I write in response to the letter published in your November 16 edition the writer of which seems unaware of all the facts regarding this case as reflected in court records.

Let us consider what is commonly referred to as recanting, or the change of testimony, and what research has to offer in terms of related issues: Recanting is a recognised phenomenon in child sexual abuse cases, particularly in cases of incest or where a child was

groomed, or perceives a familial or close relationship with the perpetrator.

In a research study of 257 cases in 1999-2000, 23.1% of recantation rates were observed. This study supported the filial dependency model whereby abuse victims who were more vulnerable to familial adult influences (i.e. younger children or children abused by a familial adult) were more likely to recant.

An alternative hypothesis, that recantations resulted from potential inclusion of cases involving false allegations, was not supported - in other words, none of the 23.1% of the recanted cases showed that the child had falsely given testimony.

Research shows that when children recant, it may be a way to attempt to put their world back to the way it was before anyone found out about the abuse. This behaviour is often misunderstood by professionals who may conclude prematurely that the abuse never occurred in the first place.

The child may want the abuse to end but never imagined the consequences of the disclosure for them.

Of interest is the fact that research furthermore points to the fact that defence attorneys, through closed-ended, suggestive and challenging questions, occasionally lead children of all ages to change their responses.

Whatever the motivation of the attorneys involved, it is noteworthy that this practice most

earlier evidence.

In a 2008 article, Prinsloo submits that the complexity surrounding the prosecution of criminal cases in which young victims are involved, especially cases of sexual abuse, often results in the system neglecting the needs and welfare of the child.

Prinsloo furthermore argues that it is an essential element of a progressive justice system that the special vulnerability of children be provided for by means of a flexible interpretation of the legal rules regarding the giving of testimony.

This right is enshrined in Section 28(2) of our constitution, but of critical importance is the fundamental distinction between the rights of children as guaranteed in Section 28(2) versus “other” human rights.

The only instance of precedence of one fundamental right above others appears is Section 28(2) of the Constitution, which unequivocally declares that the child’s best interests are of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child.

Perhaps it is time that we as a community ask more pertinent critical questions of ourselves, our legal system and those involved, and address a cultural and societal anomie that creates fertile soil for atrocities against the most vulnerable among us.

Deidre de Villiers - BA (Hons) Counselling psychology (UNISA), Plett

Thank you for your support, and let justice prevail The article that appeared in CXPRESS of November 9 brought much gratitude after my ordeal of the past 18 months.

My thoughts go back to my first day in Knysna prison in June 2015, when I was visited by family friend Vernon Leonie.

We had to communicate through a glass window with a small hole in it, and with guards keeping watch on both sides.

He went to consult with my lawyer, took a message to my mother, and gave permission for me to stay with his family on their farm.

When I was eventually granted bail, his family was not back from their holiday but he left keys for their cottage where I could stay for as long as I needed to.

The time on the farm allowed me to broaden

my horizons. I met new friends and grew in independence, and it gave me more time to pray.

I felt sad when driving away from the farm on August 27, when the state prosecutor decided that since I had faithfully adhered to my bail conditions for more than a year, I was allowed to move back home.

I am ever grateful to the Leonie family for accepting me as a son and for treating me like a king.

Every Saturday morning when I went to sign in at KwaNokuthula police station, the so-called victim in my case rushed to see my car and to wave. I could not understand it, and often cried when arriving home, traumatised at the sight, until I realised that he was actually missing me.

I knew then that it could

not have been the child who said those things about me, and I have proof that he refused to speak to the police on several occasions.

I was contacted by colleagues and community members telling me that the child said he was missing me and that I never did anything wrong to him.

On the first trial date on November 3, the child finally had an opportunity to speak the truth by saying that I never touched him, that he never saw me naked, and that we were never alone.

This happened before the cross-examination, and not during as the media was trying to make it look. He simply came out with the truth; cross-examination was not even necessary.

It makes it clear that

the child never meant to do me any harm, but that it was rather a plot against me.

So yes, please protect our children. Do not brainwash them. Do not say or write things on their behalf, or probe them to say things that you would like to hear, because deep down inside, they have something to share with you. Save them all of that pain.

I fully support the 16 Days of Activism campaign. Yet I plead for the cause of the innocent men worldwide who have been wrongly labelled and charged without the resources to defend themselves.

I now have first-hand experience of what hell such assumptions can cause. Let’s start standing together for justice.

Leigh Dunn, Plett

On Sunday November 13, to the amazement of all who had come to see the huge waves off Solar Beach, a deep-sea commercial boat (call sign ZR3559) was long-line fishing just behind the breakers.

The lines were set between yellow floats parallel to the beach, stretching from Solar Beach towards the Beacon Island beach.

A Google search for ZR3559 was negative. Was this boat, under the pretence of sheltering from the rough seas, moonlighting off Solar Beach?

By early afternoon, despite the heavy swell and rough seas, the boat had departed from the bay. Is it permissible to do long-line fishing so close to the beach?

About three years ago, over a period of 10 days, there was a huge deep-sea com-

mercial trawler stripping the seabed with its dragnet between Nature’s Valley and Robberg Peninsula.

Is there a local authority who is responsible for keeping a watch on commercial fishing boats operating in Baia Formosa? Were they aware of this boat operating long lines here on Sunday?

There were lifesavers on duty at Solar Beach at the time.

Local deep-sea sports anglers and subsistence fishermen have to travel more than 10km off shore to catch hake and are limited to five fish per permit holder, but commercial boats seem to be authorised to strip the sea with dragnets and long lines anywhere they choose in Baia Formosa, even just behind the breakers.

John Mulder, Plett

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CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

23 November 2016

Fresh tweaks give TransCape better balance IDERS in next year’s TransCape mountain bike event, which kicks off in Knysna on February 5, will find a better balance across the board as organisers continue pushing the boundaries in one of South Africa’s premium multistage races.

The third edition, which takes riders from the Garden Route to Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, concludes on February 11 and route director Wayne Collett said they had been hard at work in recent weeks to tweak the route, assuring riders that the journey would remain a challenge.

“The idea is to make sure the premium status of the race is not compromised and that features such as accommodation, food and evening functions can be fully enjoyed by a wider pool of riders,” he explained.

The result is a challenging route that does not “kill

R

RIDE IT OUT: Several changes have been made to the opening stages of the 2017 TransCape mountain bike race - Photo: Jacques Marais

most of your riders” in the first three to four stages.

“That makes them unable to enjoy all the great ‘off the bike’ aspects that make TransCape such a unique and enjoyable event. So it is all about equalling out the different stages.”

Collett said the first four days had all been tough in the past, which upset the balance of the event for too many of the participants.

“Although spectacular as

individual stages, they were simply too tough as a combination and therefore needed some significant changes to ensure the maximum enjoyment for our riders.”

He said the conundrum faced by all route designers was the constant and direct correlation between “increasing beauty and decreasing enjoyment”.

“The more spectacular you try to make your route, the more unobtainable you

make it for more and more riders because the most beautiful sections are invariably also the toughest.

“So no matter how beautiful a section is, if you are completely stuffed, you will not enjoy it.”

The first stage, which last year covered 102km and 2,600m of vertical ascent, has been tweaked to offer an 80km ride from Knysna to Wilderness with an elevation of 1,700m.

The second day is still the queen stage and remains a monster challenge at 135km, but the climbing has been reduced from 2,400m to 2,000m. It’s also now sandwiched in-between two 80km stages.

Collett said the total distance had been reduced from 675km to 650km, but cautioned that competitors should not mistake “shorter” and “easier” for being “easy”.

“You only have to look at stage two to see that the TransCape still presents a great endurance challenge.

It’s simply the balance of the stages that now affords more recovery opportunity and therefore more forgiveness.”

He felt that the changes to the race, which was recently acquired by ASG Events, would add value in several ways.

“Generally riders will be finishing more days earlier than in the past and will

have more time to enjoy their accommodation, as well as the catering and entertainment on offer.

Although the amount of climbing had been reduced, Collett said there would be enough ascent to test the competitors.

“There is no even ground between Knysna and Franschhoek so although the 2017 course is flatter, it’s definitely not flat.”

Entries close today (November 23) - visit www.trans capemtb.co.za for details.

Stage by stage • Stage 1: Knysna to Wilderness (80km) • Stage 2: George to Van Wyksdorp (135km) • Stage 3: Van Wyksdorp to Riversdal (81km) • Stage 4: Riversdal to Swellendam (103km) • Stage 5: Swellendam to Greyton (112km) • Stage 6: Greyton to Villiersdorp (68km) • Stage 7: Villiersdorp to Franschhoek (78km).

Plett’s water polo ladies impress at Kingswood On the weekend of November 4-6, the Plett Water Polo Club U13 girls team went to Grahamstown to participate in the Kingswood Water Polo Festival.

They competed against teams from Kingswood, Hudson Park, Clarendon, Collegiate, DSG and Pearson - and a great time was had by all. The girls played a total of nine matches of which they won five, drew one and lost three.

They certainly did Plett Water Polo Club proud. A special thank you to Colleen and Shaun Nel who survived the bus trip with the girls, coached them and took care of them, together with the assistance of some supportive parents. The club’s Dave Harrow also thanks Lorna McLeod for her generous donation towards transport costs. Pictured at right are the spirited young lasses, the back of their Plett Water Polo Club T-shirts bearing the message: ‘Just forget about it princess, not even Cinderella is getting to this ball.’