24 October 2018 by CXpress

24 October 2018

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

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Bravo, David!

David Hall-Green - pictured here with marvellous wife Marsja in Plett’s Lookout Centre courtyard - turns 80 years young today. Turn to page 9 for a nutshell history and selected images from some of his most productive moments in theatre, art, and life in general…

Bitou land for homes p4

School news update p6 & 7

Andrea nails Otter! p16

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NEWS & VIEWS

24 October 2018

This perfectly normal boy deserves to be lauded dancing, and being outside. for his special capabilities After all, Wian is just a norPlett reader MARYCKA HENDRIKS is the proud parent of a toddler with abilities quite different to those of other kids his age - she shares her story in the wake of October 20, celebrated nationally as Down Syndrome Awareness Day HEN I was 28 weeks pregnant with Wian, my gynaecologist in Knysna did a routine scan that suggested the possibility of Down syndrome (DS). We were sent to Grootte Schuur Hospital in Cape Town for an intensive sonar. Soon afterwards, we were called to the doctor’s rooms and informed that this was indeed the case. After recovering from the initial shock, Wian’s dad and I said we would accept our child, no matter what. As there were signs of foetal distress, an emergency caesarean was done immediately. Our baby was taking strain. He had fluid in his lungs and brain and a hole in his heart. Born two months premature on February 21 and weighing only 1.8kg, he was immediately whipped away to the ICU. Our tiny boy lay in the ICU for weeks on end, his eyes closed, his nose and lungs connected to tubes to assist with breathing and draining of the fluid, while further tests were being done. With every visit, we prayed for Wian. We bought toy soldiers, which we put next to his bed to keep watch over him. We sang Stapsoldaatjie to him on every visit. “Ek is Jesus se soldaatjie, ja meneer!” The significance of our little song was that Wian was a soldier of God, that he

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE: Steven and Marycka Hendriks, above, have learnt life lessons from their boy, and celebrate every milestone reached; at right, a special bond exists between Wian and Steven, who will move mountains for his beloved son

had to be strong and fight - that was the most important part. Wian was taken to Red Cross Children’s Hospital for further tests on his heart, but the doctors there detected no hole! His heart, we firmly believe, was healed by the grace of God. Eventually, after staying in hospital for over five weeks, Wian was strong enough to come home. My biggest fear as a parent was, firstly, would I be able to raise a child with a disability

and, secondly, what would his future be like - would society accept him? Sure, there are many challenges but we believe that God sent Wian to us for a reason, and that He is with us every step of the way. We perceive every milestone reached by our little boy as a miracle, even if it takes a little longer, and we celebrate each and every moment. Wian is a vibrant, energetic, strong-willed four-year-old who loves music, singing,

mal little boy with Down syndrome. He’s not that different from the rest; while facing certain challenges, he has many amazing abilities. We find the people of Plett, where we have been living for the past two years, friendly and supportive. However, a significant stumbling block is the absence of a local DS support group. As parents, we also sometimes need support and would love to share the experiences of people in a similar situation. Wian is fortunate to have a daddy who will move mountains on his behalf, and we are blessed with a great family who is always there for him, and for us as parents, too. Steven and I are extremely grateful for the fact that Wian can attend Plett Pre-primary School - he really enjoys it. The teachers were willing to give him a chance, and they really go the extra mile for him. My heart’s desire is for society to accept our child - that people will see a lovely little boy and not be blinded by his disability. I believe Wian is destined for great things… Watch this space! As October is DS Awareness Month, I urge every parent to educate themselves and their kids about DS - there are reams of information on the internet. Wian taught us to be patient. He taught us to love unconditionally, and that is the greatest gift we as parents could receive. We will treasure it for as long as we live.

NEWS & VIEWS

24 October 2018

Net tightens as security and emergency stakeholders cohesion intensifies Cooperation among Plettenberg Bay crime fighters has paid dividends over the past two weeks as several crime suspects were apprehended - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports LETTENBERG Bay Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) operations head Otto Olivier said the fortnight started with several incidents involving residents reporting suspicious individuals looking over property fences across various neighbourhoods. “Members responded swiftly to these reports and resolved the issues,” Olivier said, adding that the PBCPA’s Rapid Response team also reacted quickly when they were alerted to an attack on a woman near the Hobie Beach boardwalk last week. “The suspect, alleged to be a vehicle attendant, fled in the direction of Lookout Beach through the Wedge area. A thorough search of the area was conducted,” Olivier said. The suspect could not be found, but the woman was assisted. “While searching for the suspect, we received a call about a burglary in progress in the Ladywood area.” Olivier said several PB-

CPA members responded and searched the area where two young suspects were reported to have fled. “Both suspects were apprehended and handed over to police.” He added that PBCPA members also assisted in the search for a missing man. “The man was found unharmed 10 minutes after the call was received.” Olivier said Plett Rapid Response medic Sally Turner responded swiftly when she received reports of an unresponsive man found in the Keurbooms area. “The patient was stabilised and taken to hospital by ambulance.” He added that three suspects were caught on CCTV cameras jumping over a fence in Robberg Road. “The owner of the property reported that the suspects fled in the direction of Piesang Valley Road. Several members conducted a detailed search of all escape routes. “The suspects were spot-

ted near the municipal offices, where they slipped through the responders’ net and split up. The responders took up positions at various escape routes while others scanned the area. Two suspects were pinned down in Sewell Street.” Plettenberg Bay police confirmed that two suspects were arrested and a stolen laptop recovered. Olivier said several PBCPA members responded to assist Smhart Security officers when suspects triggered the alarm at Footsteps Christian School. One of the suspects was apprehended near Bowtie Estate, while the other was tracked down by Plett K9 Blackie in bushes in Julia Avenue. The suspects were handed over to police. “The cohesion between all security and emergency stakeholders is incredible. Thank you for working together towards a safer and crime-free Bitou,” Olivier concluded. Garden Route Media

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NEWS & VIEWS

24 October 2018

Suitable land acquired for housing development in L key Bitou areas AND parcels purchased by Bitou Municipality in The Crags, Bossiesgif, and Ebenezer will provides an opportunity for residents of Kurland, Qolweni, and New Horizons to become housing beneficiaries. Said Bitou mayor Peter Lobese when the announcement was made last week: “It is with great excitement and gratitude that the municipality can finally make known the land purchase deal of portion 3.42 and 44 of the farm Ebenezer.” The purchased land is situated on Ebenezer Farm (Hillview 437) and will be designated for the construction of permanent housing; albeit different typologies, e.g. RDP homes, flips, rentals, and infrastructure for site and service. Approximately 1,500 sites in total will be made available for the construction of housing and infrastructure development. Financing for the purchase has been secured through the Western Cape Department of Human Settlements. “The landowners were also part of this landmark deal for the benefit of the

SAVE R19

community,” said Lobese. “The timeline has gained momentum, in particular our meeting with officials from both spheres of government to finalise all paperwork to ensure the purchase can be officially concluded on Tuesday October 23, in the presence of the community of New Horizons.” The mayor said land earmarked for the development of about 1,000 low-cost houses in Kurland is also going through an approval process. “Deputy minister Mcebisi Skwatsha is securing the transfer of erf 562 to Bitou Municipality with an official signing and handover of the land in the very near future. The tender for the servicing of these 74 sites will be advertised in November, and the construction of the top structure will follow suit.” Qolweni / Bossiesgif Project Bitou Municipality has appointed a consultant engineering firm to prepare tender documents to invite qualified construction companies to tender for the 169 top structures and servicing

SAVE R22

of phase 4A Qolweni, which will be advertised in October/November. The appointed company will be onsite for January/ February 2019. The purchasing of the Minnaar Land erf 9834 has been completed. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Department of Human Settlements of the Western Cape and Bitou Municipality for the transfer of funds to the municipality. Erf 9834 Minnaar Land will be used as a transit area for beneficiaries currently residing on phase 4A Bossiesgif. Qolweni residents to be given homes where the proposed 169 top structures will be built shall be temporarily relocated to the school site in Pinetrees, at the old rugby

field in Qolweni, and to the open sites in Bossiesgif and Qolweni. The provincial department of Human Settlements and Bitou Municipality have appointed a law firm for the conveyancing of the purchased land and the title-deed restoration programme at the same time. Beneficiaries currently living in the informal settlements, who have already been allocated housing, will not be accommodated in the transit area and will have to move back to their existing homes. The purchasing of site 9834 Bossiesgif will be finalised by the end of November. Contact James Sijama on 044 501 3006 or at Jsijama@plett.gov.za for further information.

Long-awaited landmark FTER going to press on October 23, CXPRESS attended the landmark occasion when mayor Lobese signed the land purchase deal for portion 3.42 and 44 of Hillview Farm 437

at New Horizons Community Hall, witnessed by municipal office bearers and residents who have been awaiting this moment with bated breath for nearly as long as they can remember.

NEWS & VIEWS

24 October 2018

Race-relation aces share country’s future scenario options with rapt local audience Words & photos: Timothy Twidle

CHALLENGES FACED: Sihle Ngobese, left, and Frans Cronje of the Institute of Race Relations spoke about the possible scenarios facing South Africa in future, during a talk at Goose Valley in Plettenberg Bay

T a talk given in Plettenberg Bay by Frans Cronje and Sihle Ngobese of the Institute of Race Relations (IRR) on Tuesday October 16, several possible scenarios for the future of South Africa were set before an audience of some 100 people, who listened with rapt attention throughout the two hours of delivery, questions, and answers. While many of the projections for possible courses that the country might take in the years ahead were not necessarily optimistic, both speakers continually alluded to the inherent potential and strengths of South Africa’s people and resources. The IRR is one of South

Africa’s oldest and most venerated institutions and has striven since 1929 for a just and equitable society for all, irrespective of ethnic heritage, race, colour, creed or background. Its modus operandi is to acquire information in an impartial, proper and correct manner, to take measurements of whatever is the object of study - be it, for example, the number of people employed/unemployed, education outcomes, inflation, etc. - and to then subject such information to critical analysis and evaluation. Results of these evaluations are then disseminated by way of articles in

the print media, radio and television interviews, and the publication of study papers, in order to create informed public understanding and to advocate informed policy decisionmaking by governmental and other bodies. Throughout each day of every week of the year, the IRR reaches out to hundreds of thousands of people, by placing informed arguments in the media in support of building a fair, just, and peaceful society for all. Principles that the IRR embrace include real economic empowerment, property rights for all citizens of South Africa, choice-driven health care, policing and education policies, reconciliation and social justice, tax justice, free thought and speech, policy accountability, and small, effective government. No other advocacy group in South Africa does as much as the IRR to promote and support policies defending the right of people and that of their communities, to make decisions about their own lives, free from counter-productive interference. Visit www.irr.org.za for more information.

GOOSE BUMPS: Nelisa Dyamdeki and Nolusapho Ndzongo, both of whom work at Goose Valley, were members of the captivated audience in attendance at the talk

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24 October 2018

SCHOOL NEWS

24 October 2018

Wittedrift rugby coaches lauded for making men of boys

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Bradley Raymond

HE season of 2018 was a successful one for Wittedrift High’s 1st XV rugby team - all thanks to two awesome coaches and to an incredible combined effort, allowing our team to bring the season to a close with some impressive statistics. Wittedrift High played 23 matches, 17 of which ended in victory. Further testament to our success is that in each of the matches lost, the final score was within a single try. The U/19 A’s also took part in the KPSSS competition to determine the best rugby team in the district. Playing a total of four matches, our boys came out on top in every match. The playout scores were Knysna High 33-0, Knysna Secondary 48-12, and Plett Secondary 68-7, and the final game against Knysna High ended in a 39-0 victory. We remained unbeaten throughout the KPSSS

competition and scored a total of 188 points, while only conceding 19 points. This year produced a number of star players: • Forward player of the year: Ruben van Rooyen • Backline player of the year: Tyrique Martin • Most improved player of the year: yours truly! We would like to thank our sponsors, Buco, for supplying us with top-notch kit throughout the season. We also thank our fellow matric boys who have been an important part of our team, and wish them the best of luck for the future. But most of all, we would like to thank our coaches, Mr Jacques Steyn and Mr Attie Barnard, for an outstanding rugby season. If it weren’t for these two dedicated men, none of what we’ve achieved would have been possible. They have been strong and

consistent role models and father figures for each and every member of the team and, in doing so, have made us better men today. We couldn’t have done it without the two of you. The team of 2019 is looking forward to a great season next year, and to making our coaches and school proud once again. • Bradley contributed this report primarily as due credit to the dedicated Wittedrift High rugby coaches, but also as part of a long list of requirements to qualify for the school’s famous Fish Eagle Awards. He was recently selected as head boy of this small local school with the big heart - turn to page 9 of the September 5 edition at www.cx press.co.za to meet his fellow head prefects for 2019, and see the advert on page 6 for images of the school’s recent matric farewell.

DREAM TEAM: Bradley, standing second from left, forms part of the victorious Wittedrift High 1st XV, pictured here with one of their devoted coaches, Mr Jacques Steyn

Notice Board • Voices have wings, so why not round off the upcoming weekend at The White House to celebrate the circle of life in support of Hospice Plett? It’s Amazing on October 28 will see local choristers and musicians joined on stage by a small choir of children, all trained by Jill Kirkland and directed by Robyn Brouckaert, reflecting on aspects of the human journey.

A varied tapestry of song, poetry and narration, there will be some light-hearted moments, some thoughtful and some sad, but altogether reminiscent of the gift of life. A composition by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins is included to mark the anniversary of the Aberfan Disaster in October 1966. Join the celebration on Sunday - tickets cost R150,

doors open at 5pm, and the show begins at 6pm. Buy tickets (cash) at The Old House Shop on 044 533 2010 or contact Debbie Bruinders on 044 533 5616 or at info@plettaid.org for EFT payments. Bank details are The Plettaid Foundation, FNB (code 210514), acc. number 620 480 95063, reference: Amazing/Your name.

Date: 10 November Registration: 08:30 Where: Robberg 1 (BI Rocks) Entry: R60 Adults, R40 Kids Races: 9km, 4.5km, Littlies Races & Beach Clean Stalls, Fab Prizes, Food, Fu un

CXPRESS

BUSINESS

24 October 2018

People are the business, and the business is its people - Ashley Wentworth Stormsriver Adventures, originator of the world-acclaimed Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours, scooped two Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards in Mombasa this month

HE Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards aims to highlight and acknowledge best industry practices around the globe. As an international organisation of tourism industry leaders, Skål International is a powerful force in the travel and tourism trade, initiating change and encouraging conservation of the environment in order to promote tourism and travel. Stormsriver Adventures, represented by MD Anneline Wyatt at the 79th Skål International World Congress held in Mombasa, Kenya, from October 17-21, received the highest score in both the Tour Operator-Travel Agents and Community Projects categories. “Twenty years ago, we started with only four employees. Today we employ 38 permanent staff, 23 annual and 60 seasonal casuals. These awards are regarded as a great achievement for our entire team of dedicated professionals,” Wyatt said with pride when receiving the awards. “Our community initiatives go beyond the

economic impact of only employing locally. “We feed about 235 scholars three times a week with our school feeding scheme, and the HIV/Aids and animal-welfare awareness projects championed by our staff are well received and appreciated by our adjacent communities.” The operating company is now 48% employee-owned, endorsing Stormsriver Adventures’ firm commitment to transformation. The company will continue to champion the principles of Responsible Tourism in its operations, while using its activities Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours, Woodcutter Journey and Guided Hikes - as platform to protect and sustain time sensitive afro mountain indigenous forest. Stormsriver Adventures CEO Ashley Wentworth thanked Skål International for this accolade and added: “Ongoing training and development has remained the cornerstone of our business and is the single largest investment in our operation. “People are the business, and the business is its people.”

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM CHAMPS: Stormsriver Adventures MD Anneline Wyatt, centre, receives one of the two awards won at the 79th Skål International World Congress held in Mombasa

South Africans tighten-up spending as the current recession bites OUTH Africa is in a recession and the economy is shrinking. After months of rumour and speculation, technical definitions and not, the facts are officially in as laid out by former Finance minister Nhlanhla Nene: we are experiencing the worst recession since 2008 and people all over the country are looking to tighten their belts. “Now more than ever do we need to rein in our spending - especially with another petrol price increase on the horizon,” says Annemi Mennen, of Fintech MyBucks, adding that it’s a tough time for all South Africans who must now look to make smart budgetary decisions. Those burdened by debt are especially vulnerable, and should do their best to shed it. “South Africans are struggling more than ever and that is the reality of a recession.

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But, those in debt are especially susceptible to the recession’s pit as they have less money left over for debt consolidation.” Such times call for strict measures, she stresses, and debt-burdened families might want to consider debt-directed debit orders to tackle the beast before it tackles them. In addition, she says, negotiating new interest rates and insurance payments might well be the solution, as re-evaluating those fixed costs can save considerably. Why not switch to a networked medical aid if it works for your family, and switch insurance or renegotiate existing rates if these haven’t been adjusted for a while? Recouping every cent is vital under a recession and can go a long way in helping your personal financial mission, debt-burdened or not. But sometimes fixed costs are unmovable and in the context of a recession that boils down to one thing: “Variable costs like your entertainment may need your strict financial whip,” says Mennen. “The South African economy is shrinking. There is less money going around and we must all look to cut where we can to make the most from the money we have, even if that means a change in lifestyle. It’s not all bad, but just something to get used to.” Your savings are still vital under any economy, not least a recession. “Save wherever you can,” she stresses, “because in these rainy days, a rainier day still might come when you need that extra cash - when your car breaks down, a medical emergency, or any of life’s inevitabilities.” She encourages saving for the good things in this time of financial stress. “Just because you’re tightening up doesn’t mean you should shed your goals. It might take a little longer to get there, but every good budget still needs a reason to budget. “Ironically, collectively tightening belts actually makes things worse for the economy. Spending less means that others have less to spend and this is the horribly cyclical trait of any recession. “Unfortunately, there isn’t much that we can do about it, but don’t entirely strangle yourselves all month. Budget here and there for a sneaky day out only if you can. Frankly, it’s healthy for the economy and helps us all. “Regardless, tightening-up, for the most part is all we can do. So, spend wisely however you do and if you have a job, hang on to it. It’s only going to get tougher before it gets better,” she concludes.

PROFILE

24 October 2018

CXPRESS

Plett’s best-loved celebrity is living proof that 80 is the new 60 We congratulate David Hall-Green - fisherman, thespian, anchorman, adventurer - on his 80th birthday today and, to mark the occasion, share with readers this nutshell history of his life so far… so good! AVID Hall-Green was born on October 24, 1918, in then Umtata in the old Transkei. He attended St Andrews Prep and St Andrews College in Grahamstown, before enrolling at the Johannesburg Art School in Braamfontein (1956-1958). He joined the Brian Brooke Theatre Company in Johannesburg, starring in productions like Irma La Douce and an array of other plays. In 1960, David went to the UK and joined the Barry O’Brien British Repertory Theatre Company. He performed in hundreds of plays all over Britain, including Royal Shakespeare Theatre productions. Then the ocean called, and David boarded a trawler in Brixham, Devon, where he worked as a fisherman for five years. When the opportunity arose, he joined the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company as ship’s officer and proceeded to cruise the world for the next few years.

LOOKER: A publicity shot of the young David to promote a play he starred in

He returned to South Africa to join the SABC as pioneering presenter with the likes of Heinrich Marnitz, Dorianne Berry and Hans Strydom when television transmission first started here in 1976. David served as anchor for many TV programmes, including Looking In, Midweek, Police File, and Good Morning South Africa in a career spanning 23 years. When his contract was terminated by the SABC in 1997, he became a specialist tour guide for British travel company Abercrombie & Kent. He also qualified as a specialist Boer War tour guide for the 2002 centenary of the start of this historic battle. Soon after retiring to Plett with wife Marsja in 2011, David co-founded the Bitou Amateur Theatrical Society (BATS) with Roger Davis. He has put on five very successful plays in Plett, the most recent being Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit. He has been serving as director, set builder and dec-

orator, actor, and general dogsbody for BATS. David is an accomplished artist who became wellknown for his accurate paintings of steam locomotives commissioned by the old SA Railways, as well as Rovos Rail. He is currently Plett’s ‘society pet portraitist’, with many beloved dogs and cats included in his portfolio. He is in demand as public speaker and master of ceremonies, and helps Marsja with her many activities on behalf of PAWS (Plett Animal Welfare Service). David loves living in Plett, where he and Marsja have made many wonderful friends. He’s happiest when walking his beloved dogs, Dougal and Meggie, on Robberg Beach in the late evening. Marsja and David’s contribution to our special part of paradise is immense and deserves recognition. The CXPRESS team wishes David many more years of happiness and health in a place he loves to call home.

NEW STAGE: David pictured during the time he spent working on a trawler in Brixham, Devon

TOP STOMPING GROUND: David on Robberg Beach - his favourite place on the planet

WILDE FUN FOR SERIOUS FOLK: David on the set of ‘The Importance of being Earnest’

ON OWN TURF: Starring as Walter Neville in the BATS production ‘Old actors never die...’

FRANKENFURTER’S FRIEND: David starred as narrator in the 25th anniversary production of ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ with David Dennis, left, at Joburg’s Victory Theatre in 1997

WORLD-CLASS SMILES: Beaming ‘Good Morning SA’ presenters - from left are Marjorie Wallace, Les Franken, David, and Annette du Plessis - flank Anneline Kriel, aka Miss World 1974

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INTERVAL

24 October 2018

I read that each beer you drink shortens your life by nine minutes... Turns out I died in 1837

Growing old gracefully is not for sissies! The old and the new An old lady was standing at the rail of the cruise ship holding her hat so that the wind wouldn’t blow it away. A gentleman approached her and said: “Pardon me, madam, I do not intend to be forward but did you know that your dress is blowing up in this wind?” “Yes, I know,” said the lady. “But I need my hands to hold onto my hat.” “But madam, he said, “you must know that you’re derriere is exposed!” The woman looked down, then back up at the man and said: “Sir, anything you see down there is 85 years old, but I just bought this hat!” All the benefits A man said to his 80-yearold buddy: “So I hear you’re getting married?” “Yep!” “Do I know her?” “Nope!” “This woman, is she good looking?” “Not really.” “Is she a good cook?” “Naw, she can’t cook too well.” “Does she have lots of money?” “Nope! Poor as a church mouse.” “Well, then, is she good in bed?” “I don’t know.” “Why in the world do you want to marry her then?” “Because she can still drive!” Listen to your doctor Morris, an 82-year-old gentleman, went to the doctor to get a physical. A few days later the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm. When Morris returned a couple of days later for his medication, the doctor asked: “You’re really doing great, aren’t you?” Morris replied: “Just doing what you said, Doc - ‘Get a hot mamma and be cheerful’.” “I didn’t say that,” the doctor said, “I said ‘You’ve got a heart mur-

mur. Be careful’.” A broken heart Elizabeth, 85, was particularly despondent over the recent death of her husband, Edward. She decided she would join him in death. Thinking that it would be best to get it over with quickly, she took out Edwards’s old army pistol and made the decision to shoot herself in the heart since it was so badly broken in the first place. Not wanting to miss the vital organ and become paralysed, she called her doctor’s office to inquire as to just exactly where the heart would be. “On a woman,” the doctor said, “your heart would be just below your left breast.” Later that night, Elizabeth was admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to her left knee. Oldies but goodies Some hit songs of the 60s and 70s are being revised with new lyrics to accommodate aging baby boomers. They include: • Herman’s Hermits: Mrs Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Walker • The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Hip? • Bobby Darin: Splish, Splash, I Was Havin’ a Flash • Roberta Flack: The First Time Ever I Forgot Your Face • Johnny Nash: I Can’t See Clearly Now • Paul Simon: Fifty Ways to Lose Your Liver • Commodores: Once, Twice, Three Times to the Bathroom • Procol Harem: A Whiter Shade of Hair • Leo Sayer: You Make Me Feel Like Napping. I can do that My grandmother, a feisty 91-year-old and living alone in a small town, had a total hip replacement and was house bound. Our family, not being nearby, was concerned for her well-being and called

Meals on Wheels. We let the service know how Grandmother didn’t like the idea of being dependant on anyone for anything at all. The next day a volunteer phoned Grandmother and cheerfully explained that Meals on Wheels is a service which relies on volunteers to help the elderly and the ill. Would she be interested in it? There was a reflective pause. “Well, sure,” my grandmother said. “If you can’t find anyone else to get food to the old people, I guess I can.” It hurts everywhere A little old man shuffled slowly into an ice cream parlour and pulled himself slowly, painfully, up onto a stool. After catching his breath, he ordered a banana split. The waitress asked kindly: “Crushed nuts?” “No,” he said. “Arthritis.”

Remembering passwords Two elderly men were venting their frustrations about the woes of modern technology. “I just can’t seem to remember my darn passwords,” grumbled one. The other one smiled: “Oh really? I can never forget mine!” “How do you manage it?” asked his friend. “Well, I simply set all my passwords to ‘Incorrect’ so that whenever I’m told that my password is incorrect, I’ll remember it!” Know your wines A Californian winery managed to create a new type of wine by crossing Pinot Blanc with Pinot Grigio. As a side effect, it reduces the number of times people need to get up to pee during the night. It is being marketed in retirement homes around the world as Pinot More.

Here is a new word to add to your vocabulary. It will be especially useful to senior folks! Exhaustipated: Just too tired to give a shit...

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People, places & events

24 October 2018

SOCIAL SCENE

GIVING GOLF A TOUCH OF SPICE: The Plettenberg Bay Country Club ladies section hosted an extremely successful Ladies Golf Day on October 16, well supported by 96 players hailing from clubs twixt Mossel Bay and St Francis Links. A light lunch of chicken or vegetable curry plus all the necessary trimmings was enjoyed by all. Congratulations to winners Anne Riemer and Angela Collins of Goose Valley on an excellent score of 48 Betterball points. From the photographs it can be seen that many of the competitors entered into the spirit of the Bollywood theme and dressed accordingly. Pictured at top right from left are Bea Wallace, Bev Lowrie, Heather Bianchi, and Goose Valley GC lady captain Ruth Barclay. Below right are members of the PBCC ladies committee - from left are Milli Millican, captain Barbi May, Les Carriline, Merle Decot, Kathie Joubert, Wendy Becker, and Celia Snowden, with Darell Philipps seated and Sarita Pretorius absent when this pretty pic was shot. - Photos: Vinthi Neufeld

A WHOLE LOTTA WOOFIN’ FUN: Enjoying last weekend’s Wilderness Woofathon, above, is Philip Voigt from George, here clutching his cuter-than-life Teacup Yorkshire Terrier ‘aptly’ named Chewbacca. At right are Natasha Beukes and her Border Collie-German Shepherd cross called Jaxson. - Bob Hopkin

SMALL-TOWN SQUAD RECORD: The Crags Drill Squad made history by being the first ‘non-city’ school in 11 years to win the Exhibition category during their final competition of the year in Cape Town 10 days ago congrats! Says squad ‘mom’ Yvette Wilschut, pictured above with the three trophies that accompanied the amped kids and their adoring adults back home on the bus: “We are so proud of them. The huge trophy was for the important Exhibition win, but we also scored a third place for Best Dress, and another third for our Drum Major, Estee Quinch, pictured below with squad champion Sergeant de Vos. At left, some of the boys show their push-up prowess on the side of the N2, when the bus made a pit stop on the approach to Swellendam. Check out the cover and page 9 of the October 10 edition at www.cxpress.co.za for the back story.

SOCIAL SCENE

24 October 2018

SKY VILLA PRIZES FOR ALL! At an intimate cocktail function held at Plettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sky Villa boutique hotel last Thursday, prizes were presented to winners of the Differently-abled Awareness Campaignâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s WinwithSky competition. Pictured above from left are Mike and Rita Hardaker, who initiated and have since led the campaign, with Sky Villa GM Paul Duverge and events manager Elmar Killian, right. Below right, Doreen Butterworth shows off a voucher for a one-night stay for two, including dinner and breakfast, accpeted on behalf of her daughter Ashleigh Butterworth. Below, new Wittedrift residents Maurene Claasen-Bock and better half Chris Bock were chuffed to win the second overnight stay at Sky Villa with dinner and breakfast included. Thanks to GM Paul, not one of the finalists who attended the prize draw left empty-handed. - Timothy Twidle

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Paws

Plett Animal Welfare Service

24 October 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

24 October 2018

Letters to the Editor

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

Old Plettenberg Bay local and his young family now in dire need of your support Daniel Varkal, 33 - loving husband and father of two beautiful young children - has Stage 4 melanoma brain cancer. He recently had surgery to remove one of the tumours; the procedure was successful, however, five inoperable tumours remain and the prognosis is not good. Daniel is married to Monique, 27; they have a five-year-old son named Ethan, and a three-yearold daughter named Maia. They live in Plettenberg Bay with Monique’s father, who has been in a wheelchair since she was nine years old. Before Daniel’s illness, they were working hard to try achieving financial stability for their family. It is incredibly difficult to find steady and well-paying jobs in this seasonal small town. With Daniel unable to work, Monique is now the sole caretaker and earner

CLOSE-KNIT FAMILY: The Varkals of Plettenberg Bay Monique, Ethan, Daniel, and Maia - pictured together in happier days

for their family. At this point, she has a part-time job in a jewellery store. The tumours were discovered about 12 weeks ago, when an MRI scan was performed after Daniel suffered a stroke. Biopsy surgery was scheduled to determine if the tumours were malignant or benign. During the period between the scan and the surgery, Daniel started having seizures and a

decision was made to remove one of the tumours suspected to be the cause of the onset epilepsy. Tests were performed on the removed tumour and it was revealed that Daniel is in fact in stage 4 of melanoma cancer, with severely advanced brain metastases. A decision was made to attempt aggressive and costly radiation treatments. The Varkals now need

to travel to and from Cape Town for 15 treatment sessions. I’m a friend of the family and decided to attempt raising urgent funds through GoFundMe to help support Daniel and Monique, and so make this heartbreakingly difficult time just a little bit easier for them. The pain and stress this family is experiencing is unbearable and with Daniel’s medical costs and loss of income, they are in serious trouble. These are good, kind people and the unthinkable has happened to them. Please help by donating as much as you can through this campaign. Thank you so much in advance! Kaylee Haman, via Facebook (Visit www.gofundme.com and type ‘Dan Varkal’ in the Search bar to assist this local family in need. - Eds.)

Help Roscoe get to Dubai to play for his country Plett Animal Welfare Service (PAWS) inspector Robert Ruiters’ son Roscoe has been selected to play for our country in Dubai next month, as part of the SA Invitational side that will be competing in the Emirates Dubai 7s tournament. The cost of participation per player is R30,500 and includes everything from flights, kit, meals, and accommodation. But on his PAWS salary, there is no way that Robert can afford Roscoe’s trip to Dubai. We are now appealing to everyone who are able to assist, to ensure that a young proudly-Plett star gets to realise his rugby 7s dream. Robert also needs a vehicle to get to Bethlehem, where Roscoe’s talent has been honed at Witteberg High School, to see his

son off and deliver necessities to him before departure. Robert will drive up early on November 16 and

return the car on the 19th. Please loan Robert your car or contribute towards hiring a car hire for him

TALENT WORTH SUPPORTING: Roscoe Ruiters has been working very hard to earn selection as part of the SA Invitational side that will compete in the Emirates Dubai 7s tournament starting on November 26

for this purpose. Robert works hard for the animals of Plettenberg Bay and is rightfully proud of his son’s achievement. It would be such a shame if Roscoe missed this opportunity due to lack of funds. Donations can be made to RJ Ruiters, ABSA Flexi savings account no. 9249033091, Plettenberg Bay branch (or use electronic branch code 632005). SMS payment reference ‘Roscoe Dubai’ to 078 786 5955. Heather Pieterse, Plett (Email info@plett-paws. org for additional information on Plett’s hardworking pet inspector, or contact SA Invitational coach Petrus du Plessis on 072 610 8922 or at petrusdup@gmail.com for details on the Dubai tournament. - Eds.)

Many many many thanks to you, CXPRESS! Thanks SO much for the wonderful coverage you gave my book - it was much better than anything I could have expected [find out more on page 12 of the October 3 edition at www.cxpress.co.za]. Thanks also for including my letters on the small claims court and on Jack Vine. I told my brother about the Vine story [read ‘Meet Jack Vine’ on page 2 of the September 26 edition], and he was most interested. He used to play cricket with Harry Vine, Jack’s son, who won all the soapbox derbies.

He said that Jack Vine lived on his own at the end of his life and was found dead one morning by his family, sitting at his table as though he was about to have breakfast! Mervyn Prior, Plett --Baie dankie CXPRESS, jul dekking van ons skoolkompetisie was fantasties [lees dit op bladsy 6 van die 17 Oktober uitgawe]. Dankie vir jul ondersteuning van ons WasteNothing Knysna veldtog - dit is so lekker om met iemand positiefs te werk! Nicci Rousseau-Schmidt,

Knysna --Front page? Incredible - I almost fell off my chair… thank you! Lisa Pellatt, Cape Town (Lisa’s gratitude resulted from our editorial decision to place her pretty Garden Day image on the cover of last week’s edition, CXPRESS of October 17. It was our pleasure to spread the word of this lovely cause. As an aside, we have to mention the most original ‘out of office’ response we’ve ever encountered, thanks to Ms Pellatt’s particular strain of quirk. It reads: “Did you know

some baristas swear that you only have 15 seconds before an espresso becomes stale, whilst others say that it’s not important to down your shot? If the espresso is too hot, you actually won’t taste the full flavour, so letting it cool for a minute isn’t going to ruin it. “On that note, I’m out of here like a shot to join our clients who are being interviewed on SABC 3’s Expresso this morning. “I will be back at my desk closer to 10am but for anything urgent, please contact me on my cell. Lekker dag!” Thanks for the light note, Lisa. - Eds.)

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SPORT & ADVENTURE

24 October 2018

Pole smashes Otter record, but Plett lady’s Challenge win as impressive LOCAL LASS SMOKES IT! Plett mom Andrea van Blommenstein, who has spent the past year preparing for last week’s race, finished tops in the Otter Challenge Run after also winning the previous day’s Prologue

OLISH trailblazer Bartlomiej Przedwojewski steamed ahead to a recordbreaking victory in the Otter African ‘Retto’ Trail Run from Nature’s Valley to Storms River on Saturday, when he clocked a sensational 3hr 40min 48sec finishing time - thus improving Swiss athlete Marc Lauenstein’s course record by 14 minutes. Conditions were near per-

Opening in

fect for running, but overnight rain had left the challenging course even more difficult, claiming several victims to falls and injuries, with some international athletes admitting the race was “too technical” for their skills. In the ladies race, British runner Holly Page came through strongly in the second half to clinch a fine victory in record time, ahead of New Zealander Ruth Croft. But all the talk was of the superb performance by new SA running sensation Toni McCann, who led the race through 30km and held on for third place. Crowning a top day for South Africans were powerful performances by three Cape-based athletes, with Robbie Rorich, Rory Scheffer, and Christiaan Greyling taking the last of the top-10 positions ahead of some big name international athletes. On the local front, several runners performed incredibly well in the Otter Challenge Prologue and Run, which took place along the same route on Wednesday and Thursday, with Plett runner Andrea van Blommenstein the first lady racer home in a time of 6:56:59.

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NEW RETTO RECORD: Poland’s Bartlomiej Przedwojewski crosses the finishing line to win the Otter African Trail Run in 3:40:48 - 14min faster than the previous record. Visit https:// otter.run/results-2018/ for full results. - Photo: Stephen Granger

Scorpions’ sting earn them Eden champ status

KwaNokuthula-based ladies soccer team, the Scorpions, was established in 2017 and in the same year finished third on their log. This year alone, they have won the Mayor’s Cup, as well as the Easter and Oyster tournaments in Knysna. On October 21, the ladies were crowned SAFA Eden region champs after a soccer festival that saw three Oudtshoorn teams - Spring Roses, Defence Force, and Springboks - the Young Pirates from George, and Peacemakers from Mossel Bay competing on the Kwano pitch. Explains Lindiswa ‘Lidz’ Zitshu: “Our first game was against Defence and we won 4-0 - a score repeated during our second game against Peacemakers! We were crowned the champions and felt honoured that the SAFA Eden president was present to hand over the trophy himself.” In the pic are Meghan Lushete and Ammarah Cassim, right. The team will leave for Cape Town on Friday to represent the region at provincial playoffs. Email Lindiswa at asandazitshu@gmail.com if you can contribute towards costs.

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