Cx356

16 January 2013 #356

Published fortnightly by CXpress (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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Consumer spending p7

Lives lost and saved p3 - 5

Knysna’s super season p4

Photo: Glenn Murray Photography

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

News & Views

January 16 - 2013

Great Penguin Run to set world endurance record

T

HE African penguin is one of only two seabirds breeding along our coastline listed as globally endangered by BirdLife International. Its population has undergone a staggering 80% decrease over the last 50 years and, today, the birds number less than 60’000. Penguins face many threats, including oil

spills and the depletion of food sources, and some scientists believe this endangered marine bird will be extinct in the wild within 15 years.

While many people are unaware of the plight of the African penguin, others have taken up the challenge of spreading the message.

Capetonian Dave Chamberlain is a diving instructor who decided to do something extraordinary in this regard: running the entire length of the African penguin’s natural breeding range, a distance of about 2’700km, to raise funds and awareness.

He kicked off his run in Walvis Bay in Namibia on October 17 and hopes to reach St Croix Island near Port Elizabeth by the end of January. In so doing, he is also gunning for the measured world endurance record.

During this challenging trek, Dave relies on the goodwill of ordinary people encountered

along the way – for water on his desert route, or to collect him at the end of a day’s run and provide a place to pitch his tent, shower, or recharge his phone.

But his run is also of scientific significance, as sport science legend professor Tim Noakes of the University of Cape Town is studying Dave’s daily energetic expenditure. This will allow the prof to calculate the amount of energy used in the run, and set the benchmark for measured world endurance annals.

Other records, such as the man-hauling of sleds to the South Pole by Scott some 100 years ago, probably represent

bigger endurance achievements, but were not properly measured and so cannot be entered into the Iwkppguu"Dqqm"qh" Tgeqtfu.

The run is being filmed by non-profit organisation The Movement for a 13-part TV documentary. Numerous organisations, including BirdLife SA, the Vidamago Foundation, the Department of Environmental Affairs, and the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust are sponsoring the run and production costs.

Look out for Dave as his African Penguin Run traverses the Garden Route – he’ll be in the vicinity of Wilderness today

(January 16), around Sedgefield on the 17th, Knysna 18th, Plett 20th, and Nature’s Valley on January 21.

From Humansdorp (Jan 26) he hopes to reach his final destination in PE on January 29.

Visit www.vidamago.org or facebook.com/Runningwild.org. za to follow Dave’s progress.

Twp"cnqpi"kp"Dkvqw Bitou Municipality and Plett Environmental Forum would like to welcome Dave into Plett on January 20, so locals and visitors are invited to join him on his journey into town by either running or walking with him from different locations – watch the local press for details or contact Chrissie Cloete on 082 064 6645 or at eforum@ mweb.co.za to find out more.

Seagull relieved of fishing hook by able Tenikwa team

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ALL TERRAIN: David Chamberlain relies on the goodwill of people along his route, be it by giving water in desert climes or providing a spot to pitch his tent

juvenile seagull was admitted at Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre on December 21, after ingesting a fishing hook and being rescued on the beach near BI Hotel. The gull’s world, however, did not end on this momentous day...

Says Tenikwa’s Chantel Yeates: “Once the bird was stabilised, we needed to assess whether the hook would have to be removed surgically. At that stage, there was only a 50/50 chance of his survival.

“But thanks to the skill and determination of Dr Baum and our able animal keepers, we were able to remove the hook without surgery.”

By means of a traditional method that requires the use of a lubricated stiff feeding tube and string, the team successfully managed to remove the large hook that was already in the gull’s stomach.

profit organisation which accepts any injured or abandoned wild animals from all over the Garden Route.

Phone them on 044 534 8170 or visit www.tenikwa.com for further information.

Walk with WESSA

OUT, DAMN HOOK! The seagull is prepared for non-surgical removal of a fishing hook it had swallowed – the inset shows the offending hook after extraction from its stomach

“The patient is currently in the recovery room and doing well,” reported Chantel soon after the procedure.

Tenikwa appeals to all fishermen to bear in mind the damage done by loose hooks lying

around. Not only seagulls and other birds, but animals and humans also risk being injured by fish hooks, so please take care when discarding them.

Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a registered non-

WESSA George/ Sedgefield invites you to join a guided walk through Fransmanshoek Conservancy on January 26. Members, students, and pensioners pay R80 (non-members R120) – booking is essential.

Contact Christine at wessageorge@isat. co.za or on 044 873 4203, and visit www. fransmanshoek.co.za for more information.

News & Views

January 16 - 2013

CXPRESS

Otter Trail hikers swept out to sea

E

IGHT friends from Salt River in Cape Town had a close encounter with nature last Thursday when misjudging the mighty Bloukrans River, which has to be crossed by hikers on the famous Otter Trail.

Starting at Tsitsikamma National Park, the trail is world renowned for its pristine terrain and the spectacular views enjoyed from start to finish. At 41km, the crossing forms part of the hike’s third day before concluding in Nature’s Valley.

Says NSRI Plett station commander Deon Truter: “At 9:15 on January 10, the Station 14 sea rescue volunteers were activated following reports of three hikers swept out to sea through the Bloukrans River mouth.

“The hiking party comprised three men and five women, five of whom had reached the other side safely. But the current had

swept two women and a man out to sea through the mouth.

Our rescue duty crew launched the craft Leonard Smit and hurried to the scene in 4-5m swells.

“On arrival we found that the current had washed the three victims towards some rocks.

They had clambered onto the rocks but in the rough seas, our boat was not able to reach them and the provincial government’s Health EMS helicopter, Skymed 2, was activated,” explains Truter.

NSRI Plett rescue swimmer Robert Gibson then boarded the helicopter and was winch-hoisted onto the rocks. He secured the three casualties, who were then successfully hoisted into Skymed 2.

Once safely ashore and reunited with their friends, they were greatly relieved that no one was injured. Yet again local rescuers

SCENE OF THE SAVE: This image shows NSRI Plett’s craft in rough seas and the Bloukrans River mouth in the distance where three hikers were swept out to sea before being rescued by helicopter off the rocks they managed to climb onto

showed their mettle, swinging a situation that might have ended in a triple tragedy to one where three backpacks were the only losses suffered on the day.

Ggtuvgtkxkgt"/"Lcpwct{"8 NSRI Port Elizabeth deputy station commander Justin Erasmus was on holiday at Eersterivier, between Oyster Bay and Plett, when he witnessed a jet-ski claiming the life of a 53-yearold Pretoria man.

Erasmus says the craft was launched from the beach in relatively calm sea conditions.

“He negotiated a wave but on approach of the second wave, the jet-ski launched into the air and I suspect that the man hit his head before falling off.”

He was recovered from the surf by Erasmus and friends but CPR efforts proved fruitless and paramedics declared the man dead. Police have opened an inquest docket.

Rngvvgpdgti"Dc{"/"Lcpwct{"4 At 2:50pm Plett NSRI volunteers were called out to a drowning at The Dunes on Keurbooms Beach. Airlink Rescuer and Sally Joan were launched, and the volunteers also responded in a private boat, with the Baycare ambulance hot on their heels.

On arrival it was found that a German tourist, 50, had been pulled out of the water and CPR was in progress, but to no avail.

He was transported to Plett Medi Clinic where he was declared dead on arrival.

At 4:22pm on the same day, the crew responded to a callout again, this time for a boat overturned in the Keurbooms River mouth. Airlink Rescuer, Sally Joan and the volunteers’

private boat raced to the scene and helped four holidaymakers out of the water before towing their upturned boat to the shore.

It was the second time in three days that this same boat needed

rescuing in the river mouth...

Rngvvgpdgti"Dc{"/"Fgegodgt"49 At 8:15am, Plett NSRI volunteers responded to a drowning in progress between the river mouths. Truter says that a fa-

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ther and son from St Petersburg, Russia, got into difficulties in a rip current in the Lookout area.

“A bystander managed to rescue the 12-year-old boy and the father, in his 40s, was plucked from the sea by our volunteers.

Both were assessed by NSRI medics and then transported to Plett Medi Clinic to be checked for secondary drowning.”

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

News & Views

January 16 - 2013

Knysna reports a bumper festive season

K

NYSNA experienced a super summer season, with a general improvement across most sectors when compared to 2011/12.

“The accommodation establishments we spoke with all reported higher occupancy rates than last year,” said Knysna Tourism GM Glendyrr Fick.

“While many bookings were made via tour operators, most were made online, with a noticeable amount made three to four days prior to arrival.

“Activity operators also report an increase in business, and our township tour operators hosted more locals than ever before.

We are very proud of all our products and encourage residents to experience the fantastic range of Knysna Tourism Living Local offerings.”

Fick said mixed responses were received from local shops.

“While centres like Woodmill Lane report more feet, the shops themselves reflect that no more money was spent than in previous years.

“But the Checkers Centre enjoyed a better season, as did Knysna Waterfront. Other shops in town also report a more discerning, but overall better, spend than last year.”

Restaurants experienced a

general increase in patrons, with bookings made 24-48 hours in advance and many walk-ins to boot.

“It appears that our new and returning summer events like the Rotary Splash and Waterfront Rush had a direct impact on restaurants and shops in the vicinity of these events,” said Fick.

Sedgefield Tourism manager Rose Bilbrough said the village’s larger accommodation establishments were fuller on average by 15%, with smaller concerns hosting more guests earlier in December.

“Most members say that stays

were shorter this year, with guests visiting for seven days as opposed to last year’s 10. Our largest retailer, Sedgefield Spar, says their season started two weeks earlier and lasted a week longer than last year, with comparative days showing a significant increase in revenue.

“Sedgefield activities report increases of up to 30%,” she

said. “And while the majority of restaurants confirm that they were up by 10%, it seems that suppliers implemented seasonal increases, leaving a bad taste in the mouth of service providers who support these suppliers year-round.

“Our office was extremely busy and I commend my staff on their exemplary service,”

said Bilbrough.

The Knysna office also experienced a lot of traffic, and Fick congratulated both teams for sterling service to members, visitors, and residents.

“We also thank Knysna Municipality for ensuring that all services ran smoothly,” she concluded. “But now that the season is behind us, it’s time we roll up our sleeves and implement our plans for the rest of the year – may 13 be a lucky number for us all!”

Locals ride for Burry Stander A memorial ride for Olympian cyclist Burry Stander, who was killed in an accident earlier this month, took place in Plett last Thursday.

Attended by a substantial number of local and visiting cyclists, a sombre mood prevailed on the grey afternoon. Organiser Allan Kuhnert shared this message, which was posted on the Club 100 website, with CXPRESS on January 11: ‘Burry Stander, the South African and world under-23 MTB champion, was laid to rest yesterday. The cyclists of Plettenberg Bay and the Garden Route came out to pay their respects and honour a champion that will never be forgotten. Arranged

by Club 100 Plettenberg Bay, some 150 cyclists escorted

by Bitou Traffic officers rode from Shell Ultra through Plett, culminating the memorial ride at The Bike Shop in Piesang Valley Road with a minute’s silence for Burry and all our cyclists who have been tragically killed in collisions with motor vehicles. Many a tear flowed in a moving goodbye to South Africa’s most promising champion.’

In the pics, Allan discusses logistics with Plett Traffic’s Clive Rossouw, the large group of riders appearing in the background.

Rest in peace, Ken Webb

Robyn Eidelman of the intrepid U3A Plett Panters hiking group, above, shared this message with CXPRESS: ‘It is with much sadness that I inform you of the passing on January 2 of our fellow hiker, Ken Webb, while descending Peak Formosa. Our thoughts are with his widow, Claire, and their family.’

Ken, 72, is pictured second from right in the front row in a white shirt. While descending on the northern side of the mountain as part of a 10-strong group of hikers, he suffered a 100m fall at the Keyhole in The Gully - the steepest section of the hike at a 70-degree incline. The Panters planned to observe a minute’s silence in Ken’s honour before embarking on their next weekly ramble.

News & Views

January 16 - 2013

CXPRESS

Croc and fish lost but Neville is alive and well

CHARMAINE MINNAAR shares this seasonal tale of good fortune to thank her father’s anonymous rescuers

O

N December 19 a new resident to Sedgefield, 80-year-old Neville Halberg, took to the pleasing waters of Lake Pleasant to try his very experienced hand at fishing in this popular spot.

Not long in the water and... a bite, yay! But when he stands

up to start reeling in, the fish pulls him overboard.

Neville held on to his boat but two hours later, had still not managed to pull himself back up. He had paddled and clung onto the side for all this time when a couple of young George heroes heard his call for help.

BIGGER FISH TO FRY: Not interested in a reconnaissance of the bottom of Lake Pleasant, Neville Halberg of Sedgefield clung on to his boat for two hours after a hooked quarry pulled him overboard

‘Son of Tim’ wins UK paper’s essay prize

Hedley Twidle, above, son of long-time CXPRESS contributor Timothy Twidle, last month won the Bodley Head/Financial Times Essay Prize for 2012. This annual competition hosted by the UK-based media giant last

year attracted some 400 entries from across the world. Hedley’s winning submission ‘Getting Past Coetzee’ chronicles his life as an academic working in the shadow of South African Nobel Laureate, JM Coetzee.

Said one of the judges, well known historian Simon Schama: ‘Hedley Twidle’s puckish account of stalking the South African writer, JM Coetzee, on page and in the

First land art residency makes Bitou beautiful over season

D

URING May 2011, Plett hosted its first-ever land art event when an adventurous bunch of SA and international artists descended on the town to participate in a week-long art experience that stimulated and excited all round.

And planning for the next event here, from August 10-17, is already underway.

In the run-up to this date, an artist’s residency was established at Ebenezer Estate outside Plett, with respected artist and academic, Gordon Froud, the first invitee.

Gordon is perhaps most popularly known for his thoughtprovoking creations made out of plastic coat hangers and during his month-long stay at Ebenezer, from December 5, he created an art car in the shape of a life-size Toyota Corolla out of 3’500 plastic hangers and 5’000 cable ties.

Assembled over 10 days and nights, it was displayed at various Plett sites - and caused quite

a stir when perched on the Marine Drive traffic circle.

He also created a dramatic 3m-high sphere and another beautiful geodesic sphere, held together entirely by wooden connectors and pins and representing the horrors of HIV to raise awareness of the disease.

These works also popped up overnight at various locations and the large sphere will end its days at Bramon restaurant.

Gordon’s hugely successful and productive residency programme enabled him to create art in different Bitou communities, interact with a wide range of people, and use new materials during his Plett stay.

It is hoped that his pioneering role will result in a permanent artist’s residency programme.

But it was certainly a good start for the international Site Specific Land Art event planned for August.

Call Anja Wiehl on 079 351 9129 for information on the event and the residency.

halls of academe to which, in the end, the judges awarded the laurels is a tour de force of literary doppelgänger comedy; by turns ruefully self-mocking, seriously prosecutorial and somehow darkly faithful to both its self-consciously evasive subject and his increasingly desperate pursuer.’

Congratulations go to Hedley - a lecturer in the Department of English at the University of Cape Town – and to his proud father, Tim. Read the winning essay by visiting www.ft.com and typing ‘Hedley Twidle’ into the Search block.

Thankfully, he was rescued and all that was left in the water as evidence of his ordeal is one of his Croc shoes.

His wallet also survived, a few wet notes serving as reminder of his pre-Christmas fall. Unfortunately the same can’t be said for his cellphone.

So should you be fishing in this great green body of Sedgefield water, watch out for the ever-lurking Croc in the depths of Lake Pleasant - you may be his next bite. And that remains the fish’s story - truly the one that got away...

Thank you to the men who saved my dad, whoever you are.

ISSUE 356

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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

News & Views

January 16 - 2013

Calling all Tsitsikamma entrepreneurs – business opportunities abound!

W

ASTE management and service delivery of waste removal remain problematic for a number of municipalities. But instead of complaining about this situation, the innovative and non-profit Tsitsikamma Community Upliftment Programme (T-CUP) now offers a solution.

Having recently launched a recycling project that could create 60+ employment opportunities, the plan is to establish 12 small businesses in areas situated between Coldstream and Clarkson along the N2 coastal belt – the heart of the Tsitsikamma.

The project also aims to educate communities on recycling and the effects of waste and landfill sites on our environment, while providing training, support and mentorship to recycling entrepreneurs in the Tsitsikamma area.

A four-day workshop scheduled for later this month will enlighten interested individuals as well as businesses who already recycle, or would like to start their own recycling projects.

All aspects of recycling will be covered, together with entrepreneurial development skills.

Participants will be registered on a database as official sup-

pliers of recyclables to T-CUP, which will buy the recyclable materials at competitive prices.

Says T-CUP chair Yolande le Roux: “For most recycling entrepreneurs, the biggest challenges are finding an honest and reliable buy-back centre, and transporting their goods to the centre. This service will be supplied by T-CUP’s depot.”

Le Roux is committed to supplying the necessary monitoring and mentoring on an ongoing basis, as small businesses often struggle due to a lack of support and expert advice.

“These businesses will only be sustainable and successful if the necessary backing is provided after the initial training and set-up phase,” she says.

After completing their training, the entrepreneurs would be responsible for the education of their respective communities, and the collection/sorting of recyclables from their own settlements (10 in total), while taking part in quarterly cleanup projects within their specific areas of operation.

The training is offered at no cost by T-CUP, and facilitated

by Petco – an SA leader in recycling. Le Roux says it has taken her over a year to build and nurture the networks in recycling circles, and expressed the hope that this project is a significant boost for local environmental

awareness and recycling.

The workshop takes place from January 22-25 at Tsitsikamma National Park (adjacent to Storms River Village) and a few spots are still available.

Corporate sponsor for catering in exchange for branding opportunities are invited to contact Yolande le Roux at tcupprogram@gmail.com or call her on 083 649 9378 to book your seat at the workshop.

Rncp"cjgcf"ykvj"dwukpguu"yk|" Tsitsikamma Business Chamber (TBC) is an all-inclusive body based in Storms River Village, and affiliated to the AHI (Afrikaanse Handels Instituut).

Those in the know will testify to AHI’s support of the National Development Plan, as well as initiatives that back SMMEs and small-town development.

In line with strategic objec-

tives of the AHI, TBC aims to foster good relationships with local government while creating and promoting enabling conditions for business big and small. A main objective for TBC in 2013 is to roll out initiatives for black entrepreneurs, availed by the Institute on a national scale.

To emphasise these commitments, a strategic planning session open to all role-players - SMMEs, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, community leaders and all other interested parties - will be held on Friday January 25 at the Village Inn Hotel conference centre from 8am to 4pm. The session will be facilitated by the AHI’s dynamic CEO, Christo van der Rheede.

Contact Yolande le Roux on 083 649 9378 or at tcupprogram @gmail.com to book your seat.

Notice Board • On January 25 a bunch of trailrunning buddies will cover 160km in less than 24 hours. The Every Boob Counts event will raise money for breast cancer victims who had mastectomies. The route will traverse Kaaimanskloof, the Seven Passes, and finish in Wilderness, where the after-party is hosted by Salinas from 3pm on the 26th. Con-

tact Chantel ‘Hot Pants’ Nienaber on 083 409 3091 for info.

• SA music maestro Steve Newman performs at Garden Route Botanical Garden in George on January 26 at 6pm. Tickets cost R60, R50 for pensioners, and R30 for U15s, and will be sold from 5pm at the Garden’s entrance. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy the evening.

Business

January 16 - 2013

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

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Increased ATM withdrawals point to improved consumer spending

L

ATEST statistics released by the Spark Cash Index (SCI), which measures the average value of cash withdrawals across more than 2’000 Spark ATMs throughout SA, revealed a 5.99% year-on-year increase to R485.07 in December 2012

from R457.67 in the same month in 2011, indicating more robust consumer spending.

Spark ATM Systems sales director Russel Berman says the December 2012 figure is the highest average withdrawal value recorded by the SCI to

Investor Focus

date. In addition, the monthon-month growth of 9.57% is the second highest month-onmonth growth ever recorded.

“A combination of higher salaries, year-end bonus pay-outs and lower debt services costs most likely contributed to the notable increase in ATM withdrawal activity over the recent festive period.”

He says it is incredibly positive to note the significant

10.51% year-on-year increase recorded at leisure and hospitality sites, signifying that the tourism industry benefited from the seasonal spending boom.

“It is interesting that the Eastern Cape (R520.71), Mpumalanga (R512.61) and KwaZuluNatal (R508.87) recorded the top three average cash withdrawal values across the country, suggesting that these were the most popular holiday destinations for South Africans this December.”

However, principal economist at IHS Global Insights Ronel

Malcolm Stewart – Portfolio Manager at Sanlam Private Investments Knysna

Contemplating the 2013 crystal ball I

T is that time of the year again when investment advisors are required to gaze into their crystal balls and foretell the future of markets over the next 12 months. This activity is fraught with danger and I often wonder how many of these predictions actually come true.

Last year we lived through the three great fears: the Chinese economic hard landing (which did not happen), the breakup of the Eurozone and demise of the Euro (which did not happen), and the Great American Recession’s fiscal-cliff disaster (which, again, did not happen).

At the same time most global markets showed strong performances, some even reaching new all-time highs.

What did take place and will continue this year is the massive liquidity being pumped into nearly all global economies.

Together with huge bond purchases and bank bail-outs, this has resulted in cushioning the global recession and we have seen many signs of the start of global economic recovery.

While the objective of these economic steroids is to stimulate growth, leakage into markets invariably occurs so we have seen strong equities, strong gold markets, and incredibly strong bond markets.

Looking ahead, we will continue to experience remnants of worry over the same three threats, i.e. Chinese growth, American recovery and debt, and political stress in Euroland.

But these fears are now very old news and should have far less impact than in 2012.

The excess liquidity that has created strong markets can’t, however, last forever. As economic recovery gains a firmer footing so the need for steroids diminishes, which removes the support for equities.

We should then witness better corporate earnings that should begin to underpin equity mar-

kets. Unfortunately, the momentum that builds up during the liquidity phase of a market may push equities to unrealistic levels and could result in sudden corrections.

One should thus be wary of the latest ‘hot stocks’ and make sure to invest in sound companies with inexpensive shares.

We should hopefully soon see some fruits of the austerity measures that have dominated the economies of the UK and Euroland. With better growth prospects, this will see better markets in those countries, relatively cheap compared to emerging markets.

The final support for global equities will be when we see the ‘great rotation’ out of bonds into equities. The current yield on bonds in most developed economies is less than 3.5% (7.5% in SA).

During the last five years we have seen an ongoing exodus from equities into bonds. This massive flow of funds will reverse as global liquidity is reduced and as inflation rears its ugly head.

Almost unprecedented, this distortion of global investments could take several years to unwind unless panic sets in and we see a rout in bond markets, which could present us with another investment disaster!

It is thus very possible that 2013 produces more stable equity markets, with potential surprises on the up-side. The threats of US debt, a Greek tragedy, and a collapsing China still lurk around, but are now less intimidating.

The developed markets seem to be the cheapest and could well offer the best returns this year. (Famous last words…?)

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Business 101 Sean O’Connell M.Com (Tax), CA (SA) - Andrews O’Connell Chartered Accountants

Bank statement accounting – your peace of mind solution to accounting records

I

F you want light, then flick on the switch. We have made bank statement accounting that easy - all we need is your bank statements in electronic format from which we produce, at a press of a button, your financial statements compliant with international financial reporting standards recognised worldwide. It’s as easy as flicking the right switches!

Any smart businessperson will realise that, when your accounting needs are taken care of, the ensuing peace of mind allows you to concentrate on what you do best.

Simply Accounting is our inhouse developed software that makes use of current banking technology and simplifies the accounting process to bring you, the client, up-to-date, accurate and reliable accounting records any time you wish.

Nowadays, I believe there is a growing trend among businesses to integrate the services of specialists in their field of expertise to bring specific skills to various areas of their businesses. This enables entrepreneurs to focus on the aspects they excel at in the knowledge that other important aspects of the business are taken care of.

For a lot of businesspeople, the word ‘accounting’ brings on an ostrich-like head in the sand syndrome. This need not be the case anymore, because of the above-mentioned light switch principle.

By the same token, if you want accurate and up to date accounting records, then use the technology available. Most people do not understand why electricity works, but it does.

Most people do not understand how accounting records

work, but they do. And, similar to electrical technology making it easy to light up your life, using the technology of accounting can put your financial records in good order without it being necessary for you to understand how it works.

So now you may be asking yourself, if all I need to get light is to flick on the switch, then what do I need to do to get accurate and up-to-date accounting records? The simple answer is, your monthly bank statements.

So how will you bank statements get you accurate and upto-date accounting records? In the electronic format provided by your bank, you need to say what each line item on your bank statement was for so that an account number can be allocated to each line item on the relevant account.

As you are the most qualified to do this you can select the correct account number that best describes the line item from a chart of accounts. The accounting software allows you to only have to do this exercise for one month’s transactions, as every time similar details are given on your bank statement the same account number will be allocated against it.

So, in a nutshell, all you have to do is provide us with your bank statements in an electronic format and we will do the rest.

Then, when you want to see your accurate and up-to-date accounting records, you just have to ask.

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Oberholzer says that the notable increase in Eastern Cape ATM activity could also be ascribed to the motor industry’s success in this province, with good vehicle sales and exports resulting in employees being rewarded with bonuses, while more people are being employed.

Wholesale locations recorded the highest average cash withdrawal value of all sites (R509.51), as well as the largest month-on-month and year-onyear increases of 11.66% and 18.44% respectively.

“This is a clear sign that consumers were definitely more price-sensitive this festive season, buying food and drink in bulk to save on per-unit price.

Petrol sites also revealed a large month-on-month growth of 8.45% but this is merely a result of petrol being more expensive than the previous year,” says Oberholzer.

While December is typically a particularly active month, there is a strong ATM withdrawal drop-off trend across the country during January, and this year should be no different.

“This decline is mainly a re-

sult of January being a very long financial month, as many people receive their salaries and bonuses, subsequently spent on entertainment and gifts, early in December,” concludes Berman.

He did not, however, expect the slowdown in activity to erase all December gains.

Ukvg"ecvgiqt{"ecuj" ykvjftcycn"vtgpfu For the ninth consecutive month, wholesale locations recorded the highest average cash withdrawal figure of R509.51, in addition to the largest monthon-month increase of 11.66% and year-on-year increase of 18.44%.

Retail sites came in second highest with an average withdrawal value of R476.78 and month-on-month growth of 9.79%, followed by petrol sites with a value of R476.52, which also recorded an 8.45% monthon-month increase.

Farming locations noted the largest year-on-year increase of 15.32% which means that many farmworkers most likely withdrew their year-end bonuses to take home with them for the festive season.

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CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

Social Scene

January 16 - 2013 CAROLS FOR A GREAT CAUSE: Christmas cheer was enjoyed to the benefit of Knysna Sedgefield Hospice at Woodmill Lane in the run-up to Christmas - Elle Redman took the pics at left and right.

Images of season 2012/13

Photos: www.ellephoto.co.za

TO THE RESCUE: On January 7, the Knysna Brigade averted a potentially huge fire in the fynbos thicket of Eastford Glen - Gigi Lewis took the photo at left.

THANKS, GUYS! Hats off to Plett’s fire-fighters and SAPS, the Working on Fire team, Bitou Traffic, Plettenberg Bay Crime Prevention Association, Schoongezicht Estate, and all volunteers who managed to extinguish a fire close to Thulana Hills on January 2. The photos here were taken by, clockwise from above, Leon Pitallo, Keith Lurie and Steve D’Elboux.

PLEASED TO MEET YOU: Victor ‘The Hunter’ Gugushe - a nickname earned at last year’s Otter African Trail Run - is pictured here with iconic SA swimmer Nathalie du Toit during the recent Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge.

Says the Plett-based trailblazer: ‘I had a wonderful time during the December break, with Sabrina Love and meeting Nathalie an absolute seasonal highlight!’ Congrats to Vic, who finished fifth in the 10km Urban Run, and fourth in the 10km Trail Run. See the back page for more Sabrina Love results.

TRAIL-RUNNERS VS KURLAND VILLAGE CRIME: The Pennypinchers AR Team’s Summer Run in December raised funds to facilitate the handover of two-way radios to Kurland Neighbourhood Watch – in the pic, chairman Martin aka ‘Ouboet’ receives the welcome donation from James aka ‘Lettuce’, centre, with AR team member Jeannette aka ‘Bubbles’ looking on.

Visit www.cxpress.co.za and click on the Sports page of issue 355 to read the full story.

Social Scene

January 16 - 2013 LEADING IN LUCKY ‘13: The All in White New Year’s bash at Ristorante Enrico’s on Keurbooms Beach was a hummer of a party, with DJs and live performances by Tigger and Lucia entertaining the party-loving crowd in a beautifully appointed marquee. In the pic at left, owners Ornella and Enrico Iaconpini flank a friend. Below, the handsome trio in charge of keeping the troughs wet charms the lens.

Photos: Renico van Rensburg – www.renico.com

MILES FOR SMILES: Richard Kohler – pictured at left with Plett Ward 2 councillor and old friend Wayne Craig – rowed into Plett on December 19 as part of his Paddling for Smiles campaign, which sees him covering the entire SA coastline in a single surfski to raise awareness and funds for kids born with cleft palates. Visit www.facebook.com/paddlingforsmiles to track his progress and contribute to this cause.

Photo: Sharyn Hodges - ShowMe/Plett

SWEET HISTORY: At the opening of the Fine Art Signatures exhibition at Sweetwaters Barn in The Crags on December 20 are, from left, Lizette and Tertius van Huyssteen with Llise Dodd at centre. Tertius organised the exhibition, which featured 362 works by 12 artists, at the historic barn that dates back to 1860 - the original boughs of yellowwood trees that were used in the support structure of the building can still be seen. Over a hundred people attended the opening. - Timothy Twidle

CREATIVE MUSIC SHOWCASE: Tessa Kay - pictured here with violin student Amy Rose - ended another successful year of training students from various schools in Plett with a music evening at St Christopher’s Catholic Hall on December 13. The well-attended affair was a perfect showcase for all the disciplines Tessa tutors, including vocals, piano, recorder and guitar.

- Leigh Dunn

LIGDRAWWERS: Vier brawe dames het laat laas jaar die yslike uitdaging aanvaar om vir 42 dae, 42km per dag te hardloop ten bate van ‘n welsynsprojek genaamd Shedding Light on Abuse. Hul roete het gestrek van Umhlanga in Kwa Zulu Natal tot by Paternoster op die Weskus, met besoeke aan vuurtorings langs die pad. Die groep het op Sondag 9 Desember van Nature’s Valley na die Robberg vuurtoring toe gedraf, in die geselskap van drie plaaslike dames - Charmaine Meyer, Melissa Bates-Landman, en Ria Mattheus - vir die laaste 14km van die roete. Op die foto van links af staan Stef en Charmaine Meyer, Kudzai Shoko, Machelle Bremer, Melissa, projek-bestuurder Herman Schutte, en Gideon Landman. In die voorste ry sit Ria met Shedding Light drawwers Retha Schutte en Lindsay van Aswegen. ‘Die vrouens is voorwaar in ‘n klas van hul eie!’ sê Ria. Die groot hardloop was oor teen Saterdag 29 Desember, maar jy kan steeds bydra deur ‘Abuse’ na 49040 te SMS vir ‘n R15 donasie - besoek www.lighthouserun.co.za vir verdere inligting.

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

People, places & events

9

10

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

Let’s see your pets through YOUR eyes!

Competition

January 16 - 2013

EXAMPLE

ENTER NOW! THEME NO. 6: OWNER/PET LOOK-ALIKE DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: 24 JANUARY 2013 WINNER ANNOUNCED: 30 JANUARY 2013

Current Theme: OWNER/PET LOOK-ALIKE Our favourite entries received so far...

So far, few entries have been received for this theme. Is this due to seasonal madness, or do we deduce that you’re in denial about a disconcerting likeness to your favourite pet?

C’mooon! We’d love to see the resemblance to that dashing bulldog or hairless Sphynx...

Over R20 000 worth of prizes to be won!

Sponsored by:

This theme-based competition is open to all Garden Route residents. Your photographic abilities should not be a stumbling block - we will be looking at your ability to portray the personality of the animal you capture.

Follow the Challenge in CXPRESS and on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page.

HOW THE CHALLENGE WORKS • The CXPRESS PICTURE YOUR PET CHALLENGE is a theme-based competition with the focus on domesticated animals. There are 10 themes and four categories (dogs, cats, birds, and other domesticated species), and a prize per theme for the winner in each category is announced in every alternate edition of CXPRESS. A grand prize winner in each category will be selected from the 10 theme winners at the end of the Challenge.

• A theme (see below) is announced at the onset of each Challenge. The judges select any of these themes at random at the start of each new Challenge, and readers then have two weeks to capture and submit photos that they consider best depict the theme.

• Winning entries with the judges’ observations are published in CXPRESS and on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page.

THE PRIZES • Dog Category: Theme winners - A Rogz voucher and 3kg Propac veterinary food and toys valued at R400. Grand prize - An Axiss Dog-powered Scooter valued at R3 999.

• Cat Category: Theme winners - Hagen Catit Senses toy, cat accessories, and Nutrience veterinary super premium food valued at R350. Grand prize - Cat bed, scratching post, food & treats valued at R650.

• Bird Category: Theme winners - Daro pet supplies voucher and Petline voucher to the combined value of R400. Grand prize - Daro bird cage suited to bird size up to the value of R1 000.

• Other Domesticated Species: Theme winners - A R250 Pet Pool Warehouse voucher. Grand prize - A R500 Pet Pool Warehouse voucher.

• Each winner will also receive an A3 full colour print of their winning photo, courtesy of Kodak Express.

HOW TO ENTER • Submit no more than two entries per theme to editor@cxpress.co.za or post directly on the CXPRESS Garden Route Newspaper Facebook Page – a new EVENT will be created for each theme (please enter your photos on the wall of the EVENT and not on the page wall) - or deliver entries on CD at the CXPRESS office at 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay. • Entries must be in Jpeg (.jpg) format and no larger than 400KB. • Provide your name, location, and contact details.

THE RULES • Only Garden Route residents may enter • All photos must be taken by the person whose name is submitted with the entries • Entries will only be accepted in electronic format • Entries that have no relation to the theme whatsoever will not be considered • No late entries will be accepted • For layout purposes, CXPRESS reserves the right to crop photos published in the paper • The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

THE THEMES (which the judges select at random) • Animal smiles • The little ones • Owner/pet look-alike • In relax mode • Feeding time • All eyes • Cuddles with the family • At play • A moment to remember • Funny pics with captions

SUBMITTED BY: Estelle Zamudio, above, and Erin Shattock, at right

Popcorn says prrrrrr!

Visit the Events tab on the CXPRESS GARDEN ROUTE NEWSPAPER Facebook Page to view more entries - and be sure to submit your entry before January 24!

Lucinda Duminy from Knysna, winner in the Cat Category of Theme 5: At Play, submitted this picture of her favourite feline, saying: “This is Popcorn’s way of saying thanks for the cool prize!” So, don’t delay – send in your entries and you, too, can make your pet’s day with a special gift from our generous sponsors, Pet Pool Warehouse Knysna.

Interval

January 16 - 2013

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

11

‘May the New Year bring you courage to break your resolutions early. My own plan is to swear off every kind of virtue, so that I triumph even when I fall.’

- Aleister Crowley

Why teachers drink Q: Name the four seasons.

C<" Ucnv." rgrrgt." owuvctf." cpf" xkpgict0 Q: In a democratic society, how important are elections?

C<"Xgt{"korqtvcpv0"Ugz"ecp"qpn{" jcrrgp" yjgp" c" ocng" igvu" cp" gngevkqp0" Q: How is dew formed?

C<" Vjg" uwp" ujkpgu" fqyp" qpvq" vjg"ngcxgu."cpf"vjku"ocmgu"vjgo" rgturktg0 Q: What causes the tides in the oceans?

C<"Vjg"vkfgu"ctg"c"hkijv"dgvyggp" vjg"gctvj"cpf"vjg"oqqp0"Cnn"yc/ vgt" vgpfu" vq" hnqy" vqyctfu" vjg" oqqp."dgecwug"vjgtg"ku"pq"ycvgt" qp"vjg"oqqp."cpf"pcvwtg"cdjqtu" c" xcewwo0" K" hqtigv" yjgtg" vjg"

H

uwp"lqkpu"vjg"hkijv0 Q: What are steroids?

C<" Vjkpiu" hqt" mggrkpi" ectrgvu" uvknn"qp"vjg"uvcktu0" Q: Name a major disease associated with cigarettes.

C<"Rtgocvwtg"fgcvj0 Q: What is artificial insemination?

C<" Yjgp" vjg" hctogt" fqgu" kv" vq" vjg"eqy"kpuvgcf"qh"vjg"dwnn0" Q: How would you delay milk turning sour?

C<"Mggr"kv"kp"vjg"eqy0" Q: How are the main 20 parts of the body categorised, e.g. the abdomen?

C<" Vjg" dqf{" ku" eqpukuvgf" kpvq" vjtgg" rctvu" /" vjg" dtckpkwo." vjg" dqtcz."cpf"vjg"cdfqokpcn"ecx/

kv{0" Vjg" dtckpkwo" eqpvckpu" vjg" dtckp." vjg" dqtcz" eqpvckpu" vjg" jgctv" cpf" nwpiu." cpf" vjg" cd/ fqokpcn"ecxkv{"eqpvckpu"vjg"hkxg" dqygnu<"C."G."K."Q."W”" Q: What is the fibula?

C<"C"uocnn"nkg0 Q: What is the most common form of birth control?

C<" Oquv" rgqrng" ctg" rtgxgpvkpi" eqpvtcegrvkqp" d{" ygctkpi" c" eqpfqokpkwo0 Q: What is a seizure?

C<" C" Tqocp" Gorgtqt" /" Lwnkwu" Ugk|wtg" uckf<" K" ecog." K" ucy." K" jcf"c"hkv0 Q: What is a terminal illness?

C<"Yjgp"{qw"ctg"xgt{"ukem"cv"vjg" cktrqtv0" Q: What does the word ‘benign’ mean?

C<" Dgpkip" ku" yjcv" {qw" yknn" dg" chvgt"{qw"dg"gkijv0

Mathematics for $mokers

ER: “Do you smoke?”

Him: “Yes I do.”

Her: “How many packs a day?”

Him: “Three packs.”

Her: “How much per pack?”

Him: “$10 per pack.”

Her: “And how long have you

been smoking?”

Him: “15 years.”

Her: “So one pack is $10 and you have been smoking three packs a day, which puts your spending per month at $900.

In one year, it would have been $10’800. Correct?”

Him: “Correct.”

Her: “If in one year you spend $10’800, not accounting for inflation, the past 15 years puts your spending total at $162’000. Correct?”

Him: “Correct.”

Her: “Do you know if you hadn’t smoked, that money could have been put in a stepup interest savings account and when calculating your compound interest for the past 15 years, you could have by now bought a Ferrari?”

Him: “Oh. Do you smoke?”

Her: “No.” Him: “So then where is your Ferrari?”

Vroumense darem…

V

ANOGGEND terwyl ek (okpfkpi" o{" qyp" dwukpguu" /" cu" ogp" pqtocnn{" fq) op die snelweg ry, kyk ek oor my skouer en sien ‘n vrou hier langs my in ‘n splinternuwe Polo, met haar gesig tot teenaan die tru-spieëltjie gedruk, besig om maskara aan te sit.

Kan jy dit glo?

Ek het net vir ‘n paar sekondes weggekyk, maar toe ek my weer kon kry, is sy halfpad oor in my baan, nog steeds besig met haar blerrie maskara.

Nou kyk, as ‘n man skrik ek normaalweg nie maklik nie, maar die vroumens het my so die horries gegee dat ek my elektriese skeermes uit my hand laat val het, wat op sy beurt die uvgcm"p"mkfpg{"rkg uit my ander hand laat glip het en ‘n gemors op die igct/ngxgt laat los het.

In die hele deurmekaarspul terwyl ek die kar probeer stuur met my knieë - glip die selfoon toe weg van my oor, val in die vuurwarm Wimpy koffie tussen my bene, verbrand vir grootseun en die tweeling dat ek gil van pyn en natuurlik my sigaret voor in my hemp laat val.

Die gevolg: my selfoon in sy inqt{, my broek papnat, my nasaat-masjien uit aksie vir wie weet hoe lank, my beste hemp vol gate gebrand en ek het boonop ‘n belangrike oorsese oproep verloor.

Blerrie vroumense!

Blond soos ‘n mol

D

IE blondine gaan koöperasie toe om raad te vra oor ‘n molplaag in haar tuin. Hulle gee vir haar gif en sê: “Druk dié in die mol se gat en jou probleem sal opgelos wees.”

Die blondine dink so ‘n rukkie na en vra dan: “Dink jy die mol sal lank genoeg stilstaan?”

12

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

Food & Wine

January 16 - 2013

PeeBee’s Wine Column

Words & Photo: Peter Bishop

Considering less expensive wines I

N August of 2012, Knysna and neighbouring George and Plettenberg Bay were plastered by four different wine distributors having their trade shows within 14 days – which is not good for those with nervous knees, growing gout or wives at home needing comfort.

For a change, there was good support for the target market – the restaurateurs, with faces like Genaro Fressa of Café Mario’s, Gareth Jeenes of Blue Olive, Wayne Craig of Offthehook, Alison and Murray of Lairds Lodge, Lisa of The Plettenberg, Jerome of East Head, and even the ebullient Francois Ferreira with students of his cookery school in tow.

The Joe Publics were younger and vibrant, very involved and inquisitive.

Sure, it is a treat to bounce from table to table and call for a taste of the icons, of which there were many.

But what struck me was the number of wines filling not the upper-middle but the actual middle range, coming to the trade at close to R50 – the consumer not in control thereafter.

It is such a pity that after the wine depressions that followed 1994, some supermarkets have become bullies and threaten wineries not to sell directly off the farm at a lower price than what the supermarkets wish to sell for.

These merely sell bottles, they don’t sell wine, nor knowledge, nor service. Prices might seem lower but that is not a virtue, rather a monopoly.

Surprise packet in the middle range was Kevin Arnold’s Pecan Stream Pebble Hill, with excellent natural acids and constructed from young vines of Mediterranean grapes that will in time go into building the famous ‘The Gem’, named after Waterford owner Jeremy Ord. This comes to the trade at R34 and is a steal, especially for those wanting to get to understand Nebbiolo and Mourvèdre et al.

Morgenhof has had a great run with its Fantail range. I do not like those coffee wines, but it was interesting chatting to the jovial and rotund Bertus Fourie who started the craze at Diemersfontein in 2001 with toasted staves and is now lecturing at Elsenburg and making the Barista Coffee Pinotage.

“This is South African. It is Pinotage. It is not for the whiskey drinker.” His laugh goes go all the way to the bank.

Darling Cellars with the cheerful Abie Beukes in control under-prices the Black Granite Shiraz, hugely ripe with loads and loads of grip.

Boets Nel of Calitzdorp has procured Shiraz from the cool Waboomskraal outside George, making the Garden Route Shiraz to accompany the Garden Route Sauvignon Blanc, from the same farm. Boets has pursued this ideal for a few years – to get in on the name.

Delheim’s Dry Red, now called Cabernet Shiraz, and Kaapzicht’s Bin 3 (Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon), Hartenberg’s Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz and

CHOCOLATE PINOTAGE MAN: The jovial Bertus Fourie started the coffee choc craze at Diemersfontein and now lectures at Elsenburg

the Buitenverwagting Meifort Red, with Oak Valley’s Butchers Block Merlot Cabernet and Thelema’s Mountain Red all proved very fruity and chewy, This article must sound like The Litany of the Saints. It is not. There are many fine uppermiddle priced wines and the icons, whose position and price one may wish to question, are more sellable once encountered.

Most of the wines mentioned in this article are in screwcaps, and not just for economy but for quick sale. Wineries like Jordan, Thelema and Glenelly are quite forthright in their aversion for corked wines.

The enduring question is that if these are the middle-order wines, will they have concomitant middle-order prices in our restaurants and in our bottle stores, which latter would benefit if they could cool the air so as to respect the consumer?

Comments from the guests were not on micro-oxygenation

or the use of enzymes or reverse osmosis, but rather that the wine was “lekker”. Worthy of seeing were those wineries where the winemaker him or herself came up to meet the trade.

These were probably the wines that sold best during the season. Obviously restaurateurs would love to buy at an accessible price and sell at a good mark-up, but that has been a weakness in the Southern Cape for decades.

It would be interesting analysing the price range and quality of the various best sellers – or is the call for still water or beer?

Personally, I prefer still water to a warm innocuous wine, so I hope that the restaurateurs too brought the temperature down on their reds.

RggDgg"jcu"mgrv"jku"rcncvg" cnkxg"ukpeg"3;97"yjgp"jg"ogv" Dgglc{"Ncpmyctfgp"kp"Ykn/ fgtpguu0"Jg"gzrnqtgu"nqecn."pcv/ kqpcn"cpf"kpvgtpcvkqpcn"ykpgu." nqqmkpi"hqt"flvjg"ewvvkpi"gfig‚0

Home & Health

January 16 - 2013

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

13

Mary’s tips on making your own cooking ‘wonder box’ Knysna resident MARY DICKERSON emailed this interesting snippet to us in October last year, but technology refused to cooperate and her message never graced our inbox. Not to be deterred, the feisty nonagenarian fell back on traditional means of correspondence and her carefully addressed envelope was finally delivered to our street address last month – read on, try it out, dig in and enjoy!

I

am 90 years old and live at Leisure Gardens on Leisure Isle. I have access to the staff working here so have introduced one after another to cooking with the so-called wonder box.

Two cushions are required for this purpose but these are expensive and I have spent a few months thinking about making a wonder box without cost.

The concept comes from Scotland where, a couple of hundred years ago, people used a wooden box full of straw instead of the two cushions we use today.

I decided to use an empty apple box and fill it with newspaper cut into thin strips. I then stuffed an old pillow case with newspaper, also cut into strips, and sewed the end up to form a cushion for a lid.

A square box would be better if a bigger pot is to be used, with samp, for example.

To demonstrate the workings of the box, bring a cup or two of rice to the boil in plenty of water plus salt. Once boiled, nestle it into the box and cover with the pillow case.

Leave for 20 to 30 minutes

and taste for doneness. When ready, drain in a strainer and return rice to the pot. Return the pot to the box and cover.

After half an hour, the rice will still be hot and fluffy.

If you now add some grated

Plett’s Win-Win Swop Shop Words & photo: Timothy Twidle

T

HE recycling venture that was launched in the industrial area of Plettenberg Bay on October 3 has gone from strength to strength. The scheme, called The Win-Win Swop Shop, takes in plastic, glass, paper, tin cans and cardboard, all of which is recycled for further use in one guise or another.

The Win-Win Swop Shop is open from 1-4pm on Wednesdays and typically takes in 1.5-tons of recyclable material on a weekly basis. At present the scheme has some 200 participants drawn principally from Qolweni, Pinetree, and Bossiesgif.

Bags of cardboard, plastic and other materials that the scheme accepts, are exchanged for rewards of sporting goods, dried food, clothes, toys and toiletries.

“The Win-Win Swop Shop has grown exponentially,” says Jean Sparg, founder and moving spirit of the initiative.

Other areas such as KwaNokuthula, New Horizons, and The Crags have expressed interest in having recycling schemes in their neighbourhoods and consideration is being given to opening additional facilities for the receipt of recyclable material, in the near future.

SAY NO TO WASTE: Some of the most enthusiastic participants in The Win-Win Swop Shop recycling scheme are, from left, Limisfe Mahlaba, Anele Nonkonyana, Lindiwe Sizani, Bukelwa Thongo, and Monica Mbexeshi

In the Garden

Sarah Pearce

The perfect specimen for your and suitable security hedge drought-resistant for coastal gardens. Its small

I

have recently discovered a brilliant plant to use when creating an impenetrable hedge.

It is called the Common Spike Thorn (I{opqurqtkc"dwzkhqnkc) and classed as a shrub or small tree – and it’s a much faster grower than the more commonly used NumNum (Ectku/ uc" ocetqectrc) or Kei apple (Fqx{cnku"echhtc).

The Spike Thorn has dangerously sharp and tough thorns, often exceeding 100mm in length. It is evergreen, hardy,

white flowers grow in dense clusters flowering from spring to autumn.

Successfully used as a pioneer plant in new gardens, it paves the way for slower growing shrubs and trees by creating shade and shelter, adding nutrients to the soil and creating leaf litter.

To promote faster growth feed, mulch, and water regularly. Happy gardening!

Ugg"vjg"Ncpfuecrkpi"D{"Fgukip" cfxgtv"dgnqy"hqt"oqtg"kphq0

lemon rind and a tablespoon of lemon juice and a pat of margarine, you will want to eat all the rice yourself.

Try bringing a pot of beetroot to the boil in plenty of water and tucking it into the box. After about two hours, depending on the age of the beetroot, test for doneness. If not ready, bring to the boil again and put back in the box. It can even be left overnight if necessary.

I wish your readers happy experimenting and happy eating.

Miracle water treatment?

You decide...

I

T is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up every morning – and scientific tests have proven the value of this habit.

Old diseases and modern illnesses alike are said to be cured by the water treatment, including headaches, heart problems, arthritis, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and gastric diseases, piles, diabetes, eye diseases, womb and menstrual disorders, and ear nose and throat diseases.

Ogvjqf"qh"vtgcvogpv • As you wake up in the morning, before brushing your teeth, drink four 160ml glasses of water. (The sick or elderly may be unable to drink as much so may commence by taking less water and gradually increasing it to four glasses per day.)

• Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minutes.

• After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.

• Do not eat or drink anything for two hours after breakfast, lunch and dinner.

This treatment method has no side-effects and should become your daily routine, along with staying active.

Keep in mind that the Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals, not cold water or other chilled drinks, as these solidify what you have just consumed, slowing down the digestion process.

Once this sludge reacts with stomach acids, it breaks down and is absorbed by the intestine faster than solid food. It then lines the intestine where it turns into fats and might even lead to cancer.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure or control some general diseases: • High blood pressure (30 days) • Gastric problems (10 days) • Constipation (10 days) Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment for three days only in the first week, then daily from the second week onwards.

14

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

January 16 - 2013

Classifieds

On the Soapbox

January 16 - 2013

Letters to the Editor

CXPRESS

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

Yet another high season sans airfield...

I think it would be only fair and proper to bring your readers up to speed (as it were) on the collapse of negotiations with regard to the Plett Airport saga.

In January 2011, I was part of a bidding group (the PlettAir Consortium) that included local hangar owners to respond to a Request for Proposals by Bitou Municipality. We received from the officials some council resolutions and stuff from which we had to decipher what was actually required.

From my close reading of all the documentation and through many interviews with various local and national stakehold-

ers, the genuine requirements seemed to have a number of components: • Upgrading of the existing airfield to include a fire engine plus the provision of Avgas and jet fuel; • Separation of incoming and outgoing passengers at the existing airfield building (NOT an airport); • Provision of a regular air service to Cape Town and Johannesburg; • Provision of a car-hire service close to the airfield building.

We submitted our proposal accordingly, on deadline, and

This Plett vet really cares Dr Jannie Naudé of Plettenberg Bay Veterinary Clinic, you are a saint by all standards. We’re still amazed at what you did for our little Lucy, restoring her from that long-suffering tripod state to her former quadruple glory.

Your love for animals is crystal clear; your interest in the wellbeing of your lucky patients outweighing by far any monetary value involved.

You are a good man - thanks again.

YY"cpf"Nwe{."Rngvv

Beacon Island Hotel staff styles on first-aid front Mid-December my wife and I took our sister-in-law, who was visiting from the UK, to the Beacon Island Hotel where we had booked for dinner at one of the restaurants.

As she alighted from our vehicle she injured her leg seriously and it was obvious that she would need stitches.

This happened at the front door of the hotel and, within moments, reception had organised a paramedic with a com-

prehensive first aid kit.

We were also very fortunate that a medical doctor was in the foyer at the time and he rendered invaluable assistance.

Alas, we do not have his name.

On behalf of our relative, through the medium of CXPRESS, we would like to thank all those who responded so compassionately, and professionally, in her time of need.

Uvgxg"cpf"Vtkuj"Etwvejng{." d{"gockn

were recognised as one of nine bid consortia, of which airport management company Indiza was one.

Subject to adjudication, seven of the proposals were all jettisoned in favour of Indiza, who had already been tipped as the preferred candidate prior to 2011. Despite previous encouragement by provincial authorities, we were informed in writing by Carl Mattheus that our proposal was rejected.

I was then inexorably drawn into the agonising negotiations among the same hangar owners, led by Messrs Lipschitz and Skeate, who attempted to come to some mutually agreeable contract among the current stakeholders: Bitou council, Indiza and those who had formed their own loose structure, the

Plettenberg Hangar Owners’ Association, or PHOA. All was going fairly well until a fateful gathering on December 5, when the meeting between PHOA members and Indiza led to a serious fallout.

On Tuesday December 11, I had the misfortune to attend a meeting of the self-same PHOA where, despite valiant attempts

by Harry de Villiers to represent the PHOA in a spirit of amicable cooperation, open warfare broke out to such an extent among the key stakeholders that the Indiza CEO stormed out of the meeting in a huff.

Thus we wait for another high season when the airfield may (or may not) be restored to its former functionality.

Yours in despair...

Okmg"Mcpvg{."Rngvv

Shell boycott won’t stop fracking but will hurt business Lately a lot is going on regarding fracking in the Karoo, especially since the moratorium has been lifted. One can learn all the pros and cons in the press, on television, on the internet, etc., and various anti-fracking activists are now calling for a nationwide boycott of all Shell service stations.

Let me make myself clear: I am dead-against fracking, but please reconsider this appeal.

Why? Shell has worldwide, in over 200 countries, hundreds - maybe even thousands - of service stations. So even if everybody in South Africa obeys this call and stops buying even a single drop of petrol at South African Shell garages, it means only the loss of a teeny-weeny part of

Shell’s worldwide sales.

And then we are only talking about petrol, let alone all the other business concerns which earn Shell lots and lots more.

They won’t feel the pain and will therefore not be deterred from fracking in the Karoo So who will feel the pain? The owner of the service station!

Just another person like you and me, the Shell service station owner is trying to make a living for his family, probably having bought the franchise before anyone in South Africa had ever heard about fracking.

But this is the person who will get hurt by such a boycott.

Again, please reconsider before you stop buying Shell products.

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Please shift your focus from smoke to road rules Dear ‘Confused’, your letter dated December 19 and headed ‘What to do when smokers flout the law?’ refers (visit www. cxpress.co.za and click on the Letters page of issue 355).

Before I provide my humble opinion, I would ask that you consider the following: do you always stick to the speed limit and never talk on your mobile while driving; do you drive after a drink or two; do you obey all the rules of the road?

I stand corrected, but my driving experiences suggest that you are very likely guilty of at least one of the above transgressions.

The shocking lack of respect for the law displayed by the majority of South Africans on

the road results in thousands of deaths per year, many of those lives being innocent of bad driving, yet a direct result of others’ bad habits.

So, to answer your question, forget about a few smokers smoking well away from you.

They do not impact on your life and they also have rights – the right to choose to smoke or not.

I have never heard of anyone dying from secondary smoke inhalation, but I do know that bad driving habits pose a direct and real threat to my and others’ lives. I also know that smokers choose to smoke and endanger their own health but are generally very considerate about smoking around non-smokers.

If smokers smoke around their

kids, while not advisable, it is their prerogative - no one likes a nosy interfering so-and-so.

So, forget about the smoker and start cleaning up your own act by changing the way you drive on our roads.

Better still, get involved and find ways to prevent the carnage on our roads.

Hopefully you will let go of your obsession with smokers and transfer your anger to a more worthy cause.

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ISSUE 356

15

Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

16

CXPRESS

ISSUE 356

Sport & Adventure

January 16 - 2013

Record field flocks to Plett for ninth Sabrina Love

The annual Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge again enthralled locals and visitors to Plett, further establishing the town’s status as unparalleled adventure centre and choice destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages

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ORE than 3000 athletes lined up for the ninth Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge, staged in the final throes of 2012 and offering a diverse range of events including openocean swimming, trail running, mountain biking, a beach walk and a ‘Kids of Steel’ miniduathlon. Figures have shown continued growth, with entries up by 25% from 2011.

Sponsored by Stonehage Wealth Advisors and Discovery, the Challenge takes place on December 28 & 29 every year and is presented by the well-respected Magnetic South coordination team, who ensured

yet again that eight events provided fresh air fun for sport lovers of all levels and ages.

The two events centres at Central Beach and Kurland Polo Estate boast routes perfect for most sporting disciplines.

“Few other destinations offer such varied and naturally scenic landscape, and it is easy to see why so many people return again and again to participate in the Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge,” said event director Mark Collins.

The cherry on top after two perfect days of outdoor fun was Tigger’s Sabrina Song performance, accompanied by the

celebrated Plett Field Band.

Although all funds need yet to be tallied, Christine Collins of Magnetic South expected the 2012 event to raise good over half a million for charity.

Results Qrgp/Qegcp"Uyko"*8mo+ One of the flag-ship events, this rigorous swim from Robberg Corner to Central Beach was dominated by Olympian Chad Ho and Megan Stephans, who emerged as victors in their respective categories with winning times of 1:03:49 and 1:10:23.

Uwthumk"Qegcp"Rcffng"*37mo+ Another favourite event, the surfski paddle saw an exhilarating duel up front between local hero Michèle Eray and a strong bunch of up-country paddlers.

SWD greats off to SA Cross Country Trials

Athletics South Africa has invited Ettienne Plaatjies of Nedbank Running Club, above, to be part of the squad competing at the annual SA Cross Country Trials held on January 26 at Boksburg Stadium in Johannesburg.

The national body asked provinces to select additional athletes who deserved the opportunity to qualify for further ASA selection, so Athletics SWD identified Lloyd Bosman (Nedbank RC) and Merline Klaaste (Beaufort West Runners) to join Ettienne in Joburg. Our best wishes accompany these athletes on their journey north.

Eray won the solo category in a time of 1:07:11.

Wtdcp"("Dgcej"Twp"*32mo+ The racing snakes were out in full force during the super-fast Urban & Beach Run. Michael Bailey blitzed the opposition in a time of 35:30, with Michelle Williams (42:40) taking honours in the Ladies category.

Tqddgti"Dgcej"Ycnm Laid-back landlubbers took it easy, with many opting for a leisurely stroll along one of SA’s most spectacular beaches. Hundreds of walkers, all dressed ‘to the power of pink’, contributed to a true festival spirit of goodwill and benevolence.

Qrgp/Ycvgt"Ncmg"Uyko"*722o+ The second day saw swimmers taking to the water within Kurland Estate’s idyllic surrounds.

Exceptional efforts by Carol Reeves (11min), who also participated in the full Sabrina TRI, and Johan Lourens (10:15) saw them first out of the lake.

Oqwpvckp"Dkmg"Tceg"*47mo+ Top riders saddled up to duel it out along a specially laid out MTB route set within Kurland’s sweeping grounds. Comrades runner Nick Bester’s son, Shaun, took the men’s honours, with Carol Reeves again claiming the ladies race.

Vtckn"Twp"*8132mo+ Over 500 trail runners streaked into the indigenous forest enveloping Kurland Pavilion on 6km and 10km tracks of pure soul running. Ever-green Michael Bailey crossed the 10km finish line first in a time of 37:03, with Chantelle Nienaber untouchable amid the fairer sex.

Mkfu"qh"Uvggn"*Uyko"-"307mo" Cfxgpvwtg"Vtckn+ About 180 kids aged 6-12 lined up for what many regard as the Sabrina Love highlight. Awaiting them was a safe swim followed by an exploration of the Kurland forests. Winning was nowhere as important as having fun with friends and family.

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Tight Lines Graeme Pollard

Season rife with catches

FRESH-AIR SPORTING FUN: From cycling-fit seniors to Kids of Steel heroes, Sabrina Love 2012 did not disappoint in the action adventure great outdoors sports fun Photos: Glenn Murray Photography

Few fish but lots of prizes make summer angling fun

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HE annual Plettenberg Bay Ski-boat Association (PBSA) Summer Bottoms Tournament took place on Saturday December 22, with 20 boats and 73 participating anglers making this the biggest competition hosted by the club in many years.

Competitors launched from both Knysna and Plett Central Beach, the weather playing along beautifully by delivering a warm clear morning with little wind to talk of. The afternoon saw a west wind picking up, which made for it an interesting ride home for all travelling east towards Nature’s Valley.

Says the club’s Chris Schorn: “Everyone had an amazing day with great weather, but unfortunately the fishing was not that good and only about 35 fish were weighed in.”

Among the species caught counted several gurnard (Curk/ vtkinc" ewewnwu) and red roman (Ejt{uqdngrjwu" ncvkegru), with the winning fish being a 3.42kg Miss Lucy or red stumpnose (Ejt{uqdngrjwu"ikddkegru) that

was hooked by Ray Melmeck off Rolling Stone.

Well done to Ray, who took home first-prize loot of a whopping R12’500. Second place in the open division went to Basil Barnard with a red roman of 2.02kg, and third to Mark Matheson for his roman weighing 2kg on the dot.

Fishing out of Knysna, Engele Faber claimed the ladies competition with her 1.46kg red roman while Plett local Nicole McDonald and the day’s youngest competitor, Jeanne Rieman, took second and third spots with a hefty gurnard each.

The junior division was taken

by Benjamin Stone who hooked a 1.16kg roman, with Gustav Schlechter and Sebastian Rieman in second and third place respectively.

Thanks go to Bob and his crew at Plett Ski-boat Club for again providing a delicious braai after the prize-giving, and the PBSA is also very grateful to Deon Coetzee of Plett Sports for his continuous support throughout the year.

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OW, it’s been an incredible three weeks of fishing so our many visitors had nothing to complain about. Almost all the species our bay has to offer were biting, if some days better than others.

In a surprising start to the season, good catches of hake and gurnard were recorded in the deeper water. As the water became warmer and cleaner, we experienced excellent catches of redfish like romans, santers, silvers, pangas, red stumpnose, and yellowbelly rockcod.

The persistent presence of sharks like bronze whalers and hammerheads has been rather painful, but a lot of visiting anglers enjoyed the challenge of catching and releasing them.

The surprises continued with ample catches of geelbek and cob on several days last week, making it an altogether successful fishing holiday.

‘Till next time, cheers and tight lines.

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CASH-PRIZE HOOKED: Open division winner Ray Melmeck is flanked by the PBSA’s Chris Schorn, left, and Myles Murray