The Muse - May 2014 by the Muse magazine by Pinelands Directory

FR EE !

muse

the

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PINELANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE issue

IAL SPECU RE T A E F Y

MO N E R S E MAT T

40 | May 2014

SIMON BROADLEY

STRUCTURAL BIOLOGIST

BRANDAN REYNOLDS

CARTOONIST

GET Heleen MASHING Meyer

NEW Down ZEALAND memory lane

ST GEORGE'S Out CATHEDRAL and about LABRYNTH

WELCOME About the Cover: Protein crystals grown in space. A collage of protein and virus crystals, many of which were grown on the U.S. Space Shuttle or Russian Space Station, Mir. Read more on page 12 about Pinelander Simon Broadley who is studying the molecular structure of a TB enzyme, hoping to improve the treatment for TB.

WHY YOU NEED TO READ! The Muse was asked to speak to a class of pupils as part of the fifth annual Readers are Leaders day at Pinelands North Primary School. The idea was to encourage pupils to read and to share how reading has shaped and directed our lives. Thinking about what to say, I found myself wondering "What is reading, exactly?" It sounds like a silly and obvious question but reading comes in many flavours depending upon its purpose at the time. Reading a fantasy novel for pleasure is quite a different experience to studying a technical report or browsing web pages in search of information. Reading a well told story not only entertains, but also stimulates us and gets our imagination working as we form our own unique mental picture of what the words on the page suggest to us. It draws us out of ourselves as we imagine ourselves in the story. Our creativity is fed by placing us in the unfamiliar situations of the plot – we imagine how we would have felt or reacted in the main character's place. Studious reading fires a very different set of neurones as our brains digest the precise facts the author wants us to understand in minute detail. This improves our intellect and concentration but usually does little to fire our creativity or inspire us. Recreational reading, such as flipping a magazine or browsing the web, reading only the shiny baubles which take our immediate fancy is entertaining and perhaps a little bit informative, but does not really grow our character. It does however keep us in tune with the psyche of our fellow human beings which is important. Is any particular sort of reading better for one? I think all forms of reading are good for you as they feed different needs in our learning. As with most things, a balance in what we consume is needed, without any particular one in excess of the others. I hope you enjoy reading this edition!

Max Schutte

Above: Red-faced Mousebird

BIRDS IN PINELANDS

Small family groups of these characterful birds are easily recognised by their long tails as they fly from tree to tree uttering their distinctive soft whistling calls. However, once they land, it can be tricky to see their red faces as they tend to shuffle deep inside trees and bushes where they feed quietly on berries and fresh leaves. They like to sunbathe in the morning and this is the best time to catch them in the open, such as this one here on a telephone wire off Ringwood Drive! They are probably called mousebirds due to their fluffy plumage and habit of walking about in bushes rather than flying. Mousebirds are only found in Africa and another two species can be seen in Pinelands from time to time. Speckled Mousebird, more often seen in Kirstenbosch, is all brown and much fluffier, while White-backed, more often seen along the West Coast, is very grey with white and black stripes on the back and a piercing call. Text and image by Dr Callan Cohen, research associate at UCT's FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, bird book author, and director of Birding Africa tours: www.birdingafrica.com.

Contact Us tel • 021 531 3324 cell • 073 644 1288 email • muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za post • The Muse, 12 Rhone, Pinelands, 7450

DINNER GENIE

Regular Contributors Heleen Meyer freelance food consultant Callan Cohen of the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology Carol Booth of Cannons Creek Independent School Sue Torr of Crue Consulting

We have ideas for articles, but we also invite you to send us your suggestions, or even contribute a story or some news. Email us at muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za

We cook so you don’t have to!

Send content for the June 2014 edition by 16 May 2014

Cover Photo Credit: Dr. Alex McPherson, Univ. of California, Irvine. NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (NASA-MSFC)

Editor Max Schutte Photographer and Writer Glynnis Schutte

Our Rate Card contains advertising details, publication schedules and artwork requirements. View the Rate Card on our website www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

All contributions, photographs and text, submitted to The Muse Magazine can be sent to muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. The Muse reserves the right to make alterations to submitted contributions. © Magazine content copyright reserved by the Muse.

May 2014 | the muse | 1

HEARTY, HEALTHY

HOME COOKED DINNERS

delivered to your home in Pinelands, Thornton or Mowbray

0861 DINNER PHONE 0861 346637 CASH ORDERS

Deliveries between 6 and 7 pm See our detailed menu at www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

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PHARMSTORE Dietary supplements helping you achieve optimal health and well-being The Medicines Control Council (MCC) has noted that there is an increasing number of medicines that are frequently called Complementary or Altenative medicines (CAMS) that are being sold in South Africa, for which claims of safety, quality and efficacy are being made without the products being registered by the MCC. In November 2013, the Minister of Health published amended regulations to the Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965. In December, this was followed by the MCC’s roadmap for the regulatory control of complementary medicines for human and/or veterinary use. To comply with these new Regulations, Pharmstore will only sell products that satisfy these new requirements. We have sourced the most cost-effective products to keep servicing our customers with Vitamins etc. through Pharmstore.

Please phone Debbie on

021 531 1341

for prices or to place an order

or visit Pharmaceutical Enterprises (Pty) Ltd 7 Howard Studios, Howard Drive, Pinelands The facility to order Pharmstore products on line is no longer available.

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR

6 May

AMPUTEE SUPPORT GROUP

Meet on the first Tuesday of the month 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Life Rehab, Ground Floor, The Park, (in Park Road off Alexander Road) opposite Vincent Pallotti Hospital. The guest Speaker will be Johan Le Grange from Ossur Prosthetics, Iceland. Call Carol Millar 083 261 9840.

8 May

HEADSUP! SOUTH

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Dance Dance Dance A program with ballet, modern and hip hop

Baxter Theatre 22 • 23 • 24 MAY 2014

Program A • Thur 7:30 pm & Sat 2:30 pm Program B • Fri 7:30 pm & Sat 7:30 pm BOOKING AT COMPUTICKET

www.dancecocapetown.co.za

A support group for survivors of serious head injuries, and their families, usually meets on the first Thursday of the month – date changed to second Thursday due to the 12:24 PM public holiday on 1 May. Call Janine 084 514 2404 or Bernadette 082 412 3333.

8 May

BLOOD DONOR CLINIC

Be a hero. Donate at the WPBTS clinic at St Stephen's Church Hall, Central Square from 3pm to 7:15pm. Call 021 507 6300.

10 May

BAZAAR N G KERK PINELANDS

Come and enjoy a vintage themed Bazaar at St Stephen's Church Hall, Central Square on Saturday 10 May, 8:30am – 12:30pm. Pancakes, puddings, breakfasts, books, cakes, coffee and chicken pies. White elephant and so much more. Fun for young and old. Don't miss the auction at 12 noon.

24 May

PINELANDS 'RUSTYBUGS' TEA

Rustenburg Girls High School celebrates 120 years of quality education in 2014. ‘Rustybugs’ (old girls of Rustenburg),

Above: Cannons Creek Independent School Matric Dance April 2014.

living in PINELANDS ONLY, are invited to tea on Saturday 24 May at 3pm at the Pinewood Village Community Centre. The Headmistress, Laura Bekker, will be the hostess and hopes to bring some of the present pupils with her. If possible, please wear a name tag with maiden and present names, and bring any memorabilia that you have. Please RSVP to Margaret at 021 531 4750 or email mortley@telkomsa.net before Tuesday 20 May for catering purposes.

27 May

U3A LITERATURE GROUP

2:30pm at the Pinelands Library meeting room. Author: Lan Reid. Book: Laugh Back the Sun – about a passionate love affair. All welcome. Members please wear nametags. Enquiries 021 689 5861 or 082 7189 502.

28 May

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 7:15pm in the Pinelands Library activities hall. The main event will be be our mid year auction of members duplicate material. One page exhibits on Set & Rock. Visitors and those interested in stamp collecting are always most welcome at any of our meetings. Call John 021 531 1954 or Martin 021 689 5050.

28 May

STEEL MAGNOLIAS CANCER SUPPORT GROUP FOR LADIES

Cheryl Smulders will be the guest speaker at the support group meeting hosted by cancer survivors Catherine Hermans and Yolandi Reiche at Peak Inn Guest House, 20 Peak Drive at 7pm. Call Yolandi 073 207 7022 or Catherine 072 040 7563.

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! email muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za.

Send content for the June 2014 edition by 16 May 2014

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

May 2014 | the muse | 2

How does one read the market without all the agents making you dizzy? There are a couple of easy ways to have a look at the market without the influence of an agent with a vested interest:

• Identify your area of choice (for sellers this is your address); • Check on Property 24 and see how your home

The next step is to choose an agent. That is quite easy – JUST CALL SEEFF

You have no idea how many times an agent is chosen to market a property based on entirely the wrong criteria, such as “she gave us the highest valuation” or “she quoted us the lowest commission rate”.

Featured Property: Pinelands

Recently Let

New Releases

*R1.895m 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Pinelands R540 000

DEMANDING BUT EXCITING

Under Offer

An agent should be employed to sell your property at the best price the market can achieve in the shortest possible time with the least amount of inconvenience. Would you consider going to a dentist based on how cheap he is or how efficient he is?

Buying selling or letting? Just give us a call us on 021 5317507 or email me on meyer@seeff.com.

Surfaces are rough and worn, but this home is full of character and ready for you to add your own expression. 3 Bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen, lounge & dining room. Doors leading to patio and pool. Single garage. Don’t miss out - be quick!

Contact: Johan 082 807 0633 or Julie 083 288 8481 Second Floor, Howard Centre, Pinelands Phone: 021 531 7507 pinelands@seeff.com

seeff.com

SA’s preferred home of more than 33 000 properties for sale and rent

Thornton R1.495m Thornton R1.325m

A property sale is a meeting of minds which is best obtained by all parties being reasonable within the context of the property market with all its whims. We often forget how much of a role the financial institutions play both in granting loans and finding value in the home.

compares with what is on the market; • Visit a couple of show houses and see what is on offer; • Ask a friendly agent to give you a list of the last 20 sales in the area; • Ask the same agent to give you the difference between asking and selling prices. Remember that most homes do not sell at asking price; • Have yourself financially pre-qualified.

Thornton R1.595m Pinelands R4.495m

Remember the book from 1992 by Dr John Gray which tried to explain the difference between men and women? Many agents believe that they need to adopt the same approach with buyers and sellers. They talk the market up with buyers and talk it down with sellers. Our view is that the market is what it is and there is no point hiding anything from anyone.

Recently Sold

Pinelands R6 500pm Pinelands R5 500pm

Sellers are from Venus, buyers are from Mars

*asking price

May Special

May 2014 | the muse | 4

Photography Bev Meldrum

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Zip into a branch near you

Above: Buhle-Bemvelo Zimba

Above: Hlubikazi Katlego Dibakoane

YOUNG PINELANDERS SPEAK AT WOMEN'S INNOVATION TRADE FAIR 2014 The first Women's Innovation Trade Fair in March was hosted by Pinelands based Mhani Gingi Social Entrepreneurial Networks, together with Lann Development 2:12 PM Consultants of Sweden. Mhani Gingi promotes sustainable livelihoods for women and youth in the Cape Flats. Under the overarching theme of The Role of Social Entrepreneurship in Women’s Economic Empowerment, the WITF explored the following topics: Health and Nutrition, Social Justice, Education, and Agriculture, Food Security and Environmental Sustainability. There were delegates and speakers from across the globe, including Africa, North America, Asia and Europe. A symbolic Survivor’s Walk, co-ordinated by Pinelander Joan Wright, and accompanied by percussion ensemble, Women on Djembe was led by Masebenza, founder of Mhani Gingi and Pam van Rhyn, President of Soroptimist International, Cape of Good Hope, to celebrate International Woman’s Day. The walk honoured women and child survivors of cancer and debilitating diseases, abuse, trafficking, drug and alcohol addiction and slavery. Grade 7 learners from Parkfield Primary School, generously sponsored by Jovanka Micovic of Pizzeria Villagio, and Tygerhof 6:24 PM Primary School participated in the Youth Hub component on self-development.

FOOD DRIVE FOR LERATOS HOPE Green School students who helped at a food drive outside the Spar for Lerato’s Hope did a great job of collecting R2500 worth of food to go to needy families affected by HIV and aids. Leratos Hope, based in Pinelands, is a Christian NGO supporting and empowering poor families affected by HIV and AIDS in the Cape Town areas of Gugulethu, Nyanga, Crossroads and Philippi. Call 021 531 3922.

Rustenburg Girls’ High School’s Jabulani Cultural Society sang at the closing session. Young Pinelanders who presented speeches at the trade fair were 8 year old Hlubikazi Katlego Dibakoane from Cannon’s Creek Independent School, and Buhle-Bemvelo Zimba a grade 11 pupil at Rustenberg Girls High School. They were handed symbolic candles representing the handing over of the baton of leadership to the youth of South Africa. In her speech Hlubikazi said "I believe that women must be fully included in building an all-inclusive future. This can be through forming civil society groups to raise funds, for education and awareness for future generations." Buhle-Bemvelo addressed economic, spiritual and educational needs: "A South Africa where there is an increased number of programmes that prepare boys to be responsible men and girls to be the responsible women of tomorrow in South African society". She finished her presentation saying "I envision a South Africa where mediocrity is not praised but a goal-orientated South Africa striving and indeed working towards being a leading first world country. " She left the audience with a quotation from Tata Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela "It always seems impossible until it is done".

May 2014 | the muse | 5

COMMUNITY NEWS

PINE NEEDLES SEWING AND QUILTING GROUP SUPPORT THE LIONS "NAKED BABY" PROJECT The Lions Club of Tokai is caring for vulnerable mothers and babies who leave the maternity unit 6 hours after birth. The new mother has nothing but paper towel to wrap around her baby. On 9 April the Pine Needles patchwork and quilting group handed over a collection of 107 baby blankets, 87 matinee jackets, a variety of vests, face cloths, babygrows, knitted booties and 10 'pamper packages' including soap and toiletries to Di Powell representing the Lions Club. The Naked Baby Project is active in 15 maternity units where 200 babies are born a month. Approximately one third of the mothers have nothing for themselves or their babies. The pamper packages were made by Barbara Dunnell â&#x20AC;&#x201D; not a member but a friend who joined in and made a contribution. If you would like to learn more

or donate please contact Di Powell at email di@jonga.org or call 021 361 6301. Di serves on the Provincial and National bodies of the South African Ophthalmic Nurses Society and is a member of Lions International. She is a trustee of Jonga Trust a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that screens and manages eye health for disadvantaged people in South Africa. To learn more about the Pine Needles patchwork and quilting group email Hazelmay Duncan hazeduncan@gmail.com. Standing: Helen Sands, Glenda Weidmann, Frances Roux, Jean von Loggenburg, Margie Pearson, Linet Hauptfleisch, Jenny Hill, Diana Kraak, Barbara Dunnell, Jenny Holland, Rosemary Pegoraro. Sitting: Pam Lundwall, Jean Downing, Hazelmay Duncan, Di Powell (Voluntary Project Director, Jonga Trust).

We have a reputation for quality, integrity and professionalism in property transactions. Our first class global network and award-winning technologies enable us to promote your property to an international audience - getting you the best results.

SPORTS DAY AT CANNONS CREEK

The Primary School recently held its Sports Day and there was fierce competition between the houses of Peak (Yellow), Riverside (Red) and Lonsdale (Blue) but all in a good spirit! Â Some of the younger athletes getting ready to run. From left: Jordan Dolby, Kieya Krotz, Riley Fisher, Kendra White, Alexa Micovic, Hanaa Parkar, Caitlin Grove, Coach Katelynn Weber, and Coach Tim Davidse standing at the back.

David Sims 082 495 5581

Christina van Schoor 082 897 0251 pinelands@res.za.knightfrank.com

COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2014 | the muse | 6

PHS YOUNG SCIENTISTS AIM FOR CERN WITH A PROPOSAL ON ELECTRON BUBBLES IN LIQUID HELIUM CERN is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and as part of the celebrations they set up a “beam line for schools” competition where schools could submit a proposal to do an experiment on one of the CERN beam lines. First prize for the competition is an opportunity to travel to Geneva to perform the experiment with the aid of CERN scientists. Nine of Pinelands High School’s top Grade 11 Physical Sciences students formed the team that took part in this competition. Across the world 455 schools took part with five coming from South Africa. The students spent a considerable amount of time after hours trying to understand aspects of particle physics that are well beyond the school curriculum. The next phase was to come up with an idea and put together a 1000–word proposal and a one–minute video summarising the proposal. Students

were hooked by the idea of investigating “electron bubbles” — an electron bubble, or e–bubble, is a large region within the body of liquid helium, which is completely free of helium atoms, with a single electron bubble having approximately 60 times the radius of a helium atom. After hours spent after school in the lab, planning and refining their ideas, they eventually arrived at the proposal described by the following abstract: "When an electron is injected into liquid helium, it forms a bubble within the body of the liquid. In this experiment we propose to investigate the interaction of these electron bubbles with various high– energy particle beams. Possible interactions include the formation of new particles, a release of energy, a collapse of the e– bubble or a scattering of the fired particles. This experiment will further reveal the little known nature of electrons in fluids."

BEDS FROM HOME BED AND MATTRESS SPECIALIST www.bedsfromhome.co.za • info@bedsfromhome.co.za

The worlds largest particle physics laboratory at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, uses purpose–built particle accelerators to boost beams of particles to high energies before the beams are made to collide with each other or with stationary targets at close to the speed of light. Detectors observe and record the results of these collisions. The process gives the physicists clues about how the particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature. Cern is home to a number of particle accelerators, the largest being the LHC, the large Hadron Collider, measuring 27 km. Above Left: Ayden Marthinus, Mr Adam Reynolds (Physical Sciences, Natural Sciences and AP Maths Educator) Terri Lakey. Above right: Dylan Scritten, Christopher Marz and Sakhile Zitha

PINELANDS 021 532 2010

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COMMUNITY NEWS PROPERTIES

Central Square | Pinelands www.jawitz.co.za

Thinking of selling or WE DO IT renting your property? ALL THE TIME! SALES AGENTS

Pinelanders – Front left: Lenora Hammond, front right Eileen van Helden.

amaBele Belles

Richard Smith 083 557 7515 Linette Smith 082 466 1825 * asking price

FOR SALE

UNDER OFFER

DRAGON BOAT RACERS

From 28 May until 1 June the International Dragon Boat races will be held in two Malaysian cities – Putrajaya and Malacca. This is the second largest sport in the world, after soccer, and the breast cancer survivors that make up the amaBele Belles team will tell you what great exercise it is for anyone who has breast cancer or has had a mastectomy. An added bonus is the wonderful camaraderie and support from others 'in the same boat'. Two of the participants in this year's race are from Pinelands, Lenora Hammond who was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after donating a kidney to her son (see Muse August 2012) and Eileen van Helden. These two are the lead paddlers for the group of 12 women going to Malaysia to compete with 11 other survivor teams. To encourage them while they practice go to the V&A Waterfront on Saturday mornings from 8am and on Mondays at 6pm, behind the Cape Grace Hotel. The Muse wishes the AmaBele Belles all the very best! Call Lenora Hammond 021 531 9303. See www.amabelebelles.co.za.

JOSIAH RECEIVES BRONZE PRESIDENTS AWARD

Pinelands

*R2.995m

FOR SALE

Thornton

*R4.450m

SOLD BY US

*R1.350m

TO LET

Thornton

Pinelands

Thornton

*R1.395m

LET BY US

R5 800pm

Pinelands

R3 900 pm

RENTAL TEAM

Craig Watt 082 410 9720 Annette Mouton

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PROPERTY POINTERS CREDIT AMNESTY Josiah Senior is the first student at Pinelands High School to receive the Bronze President’s Award, a scheme run under the auspices of the internationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh Award, which encourages personal development along four themes – sport, skill, community service and an adventurous journey. The goal is to become responsible active citizens within their communities. From left to Right: Mr and Mrs Senior, Josiah Senior, Irene Stewart (President’s Award Programme Manager Western Cape) and Mrs Nicole Masureik (Head of Grade 9 and EdTech Manager).

May 2014 | the muse | 7

On 1 April 2014 certain information was removed from all credit bureaus: All adverse listings irrespective of Rand value All paid up and whether or not the debt has been paid up judgements

Importantly, only paid up judgements will be removed – effectively if the debt has been repaid the consumer will benefit from having the judgement removed from the credit bureau. It is assumed that removing paid up judgements and adverse listings incentivises consumers / tenants to settle debts and they should be rewarded with its removal from the credit bureaus. Unfortunately, the Credit Information Amnesty was applied to all adverse listings irrespective of whether the debt has been settled or not. However, it does not extinguish the debt and the consumer (tenant) remains liable to repay it albeit the adverse listing will no longer reflect on the credit bureaus.

ATTORNEYS CONVEYANCERS M a c l e owww.pinelandsdirectory.co.za d ’ s AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATORS A t t o r n e y s 021 439 7490 |

COMMUNITY NEWS

May 2014 | the muse | 8

May is World Williams Syndrome awareness month. It is celebrated every year. I would like to share with you a few highlights of my life with Williams Syndrome. Williams syndrome is a genetic disorder that was first recognized as a distinct condition in 1961. It affects males and females equally, and is present at birth. There is no cure. People with Williams syndrome are missing genetic material on Chromosome 7. Williams syndrome cannot be passed genetically from mother to child during or after pregnancy. It results in a form of intellectual disability. Some of the characteristics of William Syndrome are: high blood pressure; low birth weight; and distinct facial features such as prominent lips, weak gross motor and development skills. My name is Leanne Sterrenberg. I am 32 years old, and live in Thornton. I have Williams syndrome. I was born on 28 August 1981, at 28 weeks, weighing 1040 grams at birth. I was one of a twin. My identical twin sister was still born and I suffered a slight lack of oxygen to the brain.

I was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome at the age of four and attended Bel Porto School for Learners with Special Needs from November 1986 to December 2001. I did everything that a normal school offers, except academics. I did horse riding, athletics, netball, swimming and hockey, and all sorts of other things such as embroidery, baking, computers and helping with children. Although I have this disability I have not allowed it to affect my life negatively. I had a hysterectomy at 14 and started swimming at 15. I obtained provincial and national colours and swam internationally for South Africa from 1999 to 2011. Some of the countries I have swum in, which fortunately were sponsored trips, are England, Holland, Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, Hong Kong, Sweden and Italy. I have made some wonderful friends world wide and in South Africa. I met my friend, Petrea in Holland in 2000 and we’ve been friends ever since, and still write and email each other. She lives in Australia. I retired from swimming in 2012. I was a volunteer at SOS Children’s Villages from 2002 till 2010. I also volunteered at Sonbeams playgroup from 2010 till 2012. My dream is to work with disabled children. My mom and sister and I belong to a knitting club called Nutty Knitters. We meet every second Saturday, and knit for various charities. I knit teddy bears for traumatised and needy children and I am known as the Teddy Bear Queen. My sister knits beanies and my mom knits squares for blankets. I started by knitting small squares for blankets and progressed to knitting scarves as gifts and for charity. Then I started knitting teddies and I haven’t looked back since. I find great joy in helping those less fortunate than myself, and also find knitting very therapeutic.

Work4You, the organisation which trains, supports and places young people with intellectual disabilities into the workplace, held a Networking breakfast at Merrypak Coffee Shop In Ndabeni on 27 March. The aim of the breakfast was for employers and prospective employers to meet and discuss their experiences and reservations. Three representatives from Merrypak, who successfully employ a number of special needs staff, addressed the gathering. Julie Tobiansky, Trevor Paulse and Asanda More shared their personal experiences and appealed to the gathering to consider including special needs staff into their own workforces. Trevor Paulse the MerryPak Merchandising and Stores Manager, spoke from the heart about how the special needs staff are an inspiration to him personally and how their sunny disposition improves staff morale at MerryPak. He explained how Work4You provides support and assistance, sending out their occupational therapist if ever there is an issue which needs to be resolved with one of the young people. He also explained how dedicated and committed the special needs staff are – "they have the best attendance and time keeping of all of our 160 staff" he said. Call Julie at 021 531 2244 or see www.work4you.org.za.

During the first term holidays Pinelands High School ran their first Cricket Performance Clinic. The clinic was attended by 24 U15 cricketers and eight U13 cricketers from the local junior schools. The aim of the clinic was to identify talented cricketers and improve their all–round cricket skills. The clinic was coached by Kyle Prince, Pinelands High School’s Cricket Director.

Kyle has served as a Professional Player– Coach at clubs in the U.K. and Northern Ireland, as a coach within Cricket Ireland’s development programme, as a Professional Cricket Coach at Rondebosch Boys High School, as Western Province U11 Provincial Coach and as Professional Cricket Coach at Westerford High School. He was recently offered a three year coaching contract with

Cricket Scotland, but declined the offer in order to serve as Director of Cricket at Pinelands High School. The clinic was an exceptional success. The next Cricket Performance Clinic will be held during the first week of the June/ July holidays. Please contact Kyle Prince on kprince@phs.org.za or 021 531 7410 for more details regarding the upcoming clinic.

Above: Leanne Sterrenberg with her swimming medals

MY LIFE WITH WILLIAMS SYNDROME

by Leanne Sterrenberg

PHS CRICKET PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME Cricketers attending the PHS Cricket Performance Clinic.

Mr Kyle Prince is in the middle of the back row.

Trevor Paulse

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May 2014 | the muse | 9

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cargo and small craft Authorised Financial Services Provider FSP No: 12925

Phone

021 531 5882 Fax

021 531 5855

MONEY MATTERS

Unit B16 Pinelands Business Park New Mill Road, Pinelands info@gvcbrokers.co.za

Building or renovating your dream home can often present a number of unforeseen insurance risks, which is why it is essential that homeowners plan properly and take due care during the process. Most insurance policies require that the homeowner inform their insurance provider of any home renovations, as a homeowner’s standard building and contents policy will often restrict cover during this period. Therefore, it is critical for homeowners to ensure they are aware of the pitfalls of invalidating insurance cover during this time. Building or renovating your home can increase the chance of hazards, such as fire or water damage, especially if disreputable

contractors are used. In order help reduce these risks, as well as the possibility of any insurance claim repudiations if the building or structure collapses or starts to deteriorate; it is essential that homeowners use reliable contractors and take additional precautionary steps to protect their home and belongings. It is also important to let your insurance company know of any renovations to ensure that the insurance policy can be updated according to the new value of the home following the alterations. Article supplied by Rory Mitchell Managing Member G. Van Cuyck Insurance Consultants.

IS YOUR WILL UP-TO-DATE? CHRIS BRINKWORTH

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16/04/2013

Chartered Accountant (SA)

Registered Public Accountant Auditor

COMPLETION for all small OF STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS businesses including

Tax Returns Registration of

SME and SMALL BUSINESS SPECIALISTS

VAT, PAYE, UIF and Workman’s Compensation

Company Duty Annual Returns

and electronic submission of these returns phone 021 531 2025/6 fax 088 021 531 2039 email info@brinkworth.co.za

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you an opportunity to ensure that there are no shortfalls or problems with your financial planning. It is particularly important to have a will in place especially if you have children or if you have been divorced. For those who have young children, a will can stipulate that a trust fund is set up for them upon your death. This allows them to be cared for financially. Their appointed guardian as stated in your will then has access to funds that allow for their on–going care and upbringing. In your will you can appoint an executor who administrates the winding up of your assets and distribution to your heirs. Many people like to reflect in their wills whether they would prefer to be buried or cremated on their death and if there is a particular place where they would like to have their ashes Core Wealth Managers scattered. You can also reflect in your Qualified, Independent & Personal will if you are an organ donor. When drawing up your will, a Certified Financial Planner® can ensure that your Phone to arrange your PERSONAL FINANCIAL assets will be correctly distributed By popular radio personality and ANALYSIS after your death, and that there will Certified Financial Planner® be no unnecessary payment of Estate Duty and Capital Gains Tax. Kirsty Scully Article supplied by Kirsty Scully, Certified call 021 531 5247 • Pinelands Office Financial Planner® at Core Wealth cell 083 251 8711 Managers. mail k.scully@corewealth.co.za web www.corewealth.co.za

If you die without a valid will it can lead to major administrative, tax and legal 11:22 AM problems after your death. This could include a delay in your family receiving the assets which you leave to them. A will needs to be updated on a regular basis, or at any life changing event such as the birth of a child, a marriage or divorce, the death of a partner or starting a business. A Certified Financial Planner® can assist you with drawing up your will. A will certainly allows for peace of mind. It helps to streamline the winding up of your estate and ensures that your wishes are carried out upon your death. When drawing up a will, it is an ideal time to take stock of your financial situation and it gives

Authorised Financial Services Provider FSP No. 36946

May 2014 | the muse | 10

community magazine

SPECIAL FEATURE

TEN THINGS EVERONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MONEY interest, which is calculated as a percentage KNOW WHERE YOUR MONEY IS GOING Preparing a budget is a relatively easy of only the principal amount. If one were to exercise, deciphering exactly where one’s invest R95 / month from age 20, assuming a 10% investment return, money is going can be a you would have R1 million somewhat more challenging By Sue Torr invested by the age of 65. task. As time-consuming as Director at However, if you delay and it may be, it pays to set aside Crue Consulting only start saving at age 30, time to peruse your accounts you would need to invest and statements with a view to understanding exactly where your hard- R263 per month in order to achieve your R1 million target. Delay savings even further earned cash is being channeled. until age 50 years, and you would need PROTECT YOUR GREATEST ASSET Your greatest asset and primary source of to invest a whopping R2 413 per month retirement funding is your ability to earn to obtain the same investment outcome. an income. Therefore it is useful to have an Albert Einstein said “the most powerful income protection plan which will pay you force in the universe is compound interest.” 75% of your monthly income in the event of a disability until you reach age 65.

UNDERSTAND YOUR RISK

Investing for the long-term involves taking calculated risks which allow you to reach your retirement goals whilst still passing the “eat-well, sleep-well” test. Staying calm and invested when the markets dip is pivotal to successful retirement planning. Taking unnecessary risks with your money in an attempt to get-rich-quickly will in all likelihood leave you retirement–poor.

TAKE THE TAX BREAK

In formal employment the employer usually provides you with retirement funding through a pension or provident fund. For the self-employed, a unit trust-based retirement annuity is cost-effective and flexible, and allows one to claim up to 15% of one’s contributions as a tax deduction.

PRESERVE YOUR CAPITAL

According to a 2012 survey done by Forbes Magazine, job-hopping for Millennials (those born between 1977 and 1997) is the new norm, with the average worker staying in his job for about 4.4 years. This translates to between 15 and 20 jobs in his lifetime! When moving jobs it is not advisable to cash in your retirement capital thereby interrupting the magical cycle of compound interest.

MAKE COMPOUND INTEREST WORK FOR YOU AND NOT AGAINST YOU

Compounding of interest allows a principal amount to grow at a faster rate than simple

May 2014 | the muse | 11

USE YOUR ACCESS BOND

By depositing your savings into your bond, you are in effect receiving the interest rate that the bank charges you on your loan as positive interest on the money you invest. As an additional benefit, you can withdraw this cash when you need it without being penalised. Understand how your access bond works and make it work for you!

BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND

Life is filled with unforeseeable events which can wreak havoc on your wellintended budget – repairs to your fridge, essential vehicle repairs or a hefty excess on an insurance claim. Whether you use your access bond, a simple savings account or a money market investment, set aside enough cash as an emergency fund.

USE YOUR CREDIT CARD EFFECTIVELY

Although relatively easy to use and extremely convenient, if not used properly, a credit card can lead one into debt. Always pay your bill on time and in full. Link your credit card to your cell phone to track spending and avoid credit card fraud.

THE RULE OF 72

The Rule of 72 is a simplified way to determine how long an investment will take to double, given a fixed annual rate of interest. By dividing 72 by the annual rate of return, investors can get a rough estimate of how many years it will take for the initial investment to duplicate itself. For example, if R1 is invested at 10% it would take 7.2 years ((72/10) = 7.2) to turn into R2. 

Independent, fee-based advice from financial planning experts Crue Consulting (Pty) Ltd is a completely independent financial planning company, owned and managed by husband-andwife team, Sue and Craig Torr. Supported by a team of Certified Financial Planners® and legal experts, Crue Consulting provides advice covering the full range of financial planning needs. OUR FEE-BASED ADVICE COVERS • Retirement planning & investing • Risk & insurance planning • Wills & Estate Planning • Short & long-term investing • Effective tax structuring

Come and have coffee with us.

We’d love to help you plan. Please contact us to set up a meeting

021 530 8500 We’d love sue@crue.co.za to hear craig@crue.co.za from you!

CONNECT WITH CRUE Read our online column at

www.crue.co.za Follow us @crueconsulting Like Crue Consulting’s Facebook Page

See what interests us at pinterest.com/crueconsulting View our thoughts at flickr.com/crueconsulting View us on Instragram instagram.com/crueconsulting

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PINELANDERS

SIMON BROADLEY

This year the world is celebrating the centenary of X-ray crystallography, a technique that Pinelander Simon Broadley is using towards his PhD, to study the molecular structure of a TB enzyme, hoping to improve the treatment for TB. A teacher at heart he feels that good education and input into the youth of South Africa are essential and his aim is "to work on something relevant to Africa". He speaks to the Muse about a recent training course in France.

2014 IS THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF CRYSTALLOGRAPHY

Max von Laue received the Nobel Prize 100 years ago for discovering that crystals could diffract (scatter) X-rays. This diffraction by crystals can be used to illustrate the molecular structure of the molecule that makes up the crystal. Since then crystallography has been instrumental in many great discoveries of the 20th century, such as the molecular structure of DNA, the fabrication of computer memories and the area where Simon is most interested, the structure and function of proteins.

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HOW TO GET 3D GRAPHICS OF A MOLECULE

Firstly scientists purify the protein they are interested in studying, and then they turn it into crystals using a special concentrating process. In essence the crystal is a collection of thousands of copies of the protein molecule in an ordered fashion. These molecules are extremely tiny and the best way to be able to 'see' them is to expose them to an X-ray beam. The atoms in the protein scatter the X-rays making a pattern on a detector. This pattern is analysed by computer software, which eventually is used to show the 3D structure of the enzyme. The best X-ray source for this work is produced by a synchrotron particle accelerator – which is the size of a stadium! The electrons in a synchrotron travel at close to the speed of light around a circular tube, releasing energy, some in the form of X-rays. These are the X-rays that are directed at the crystals to determine their molecular structure.

FREE USE OF EUROPEAN SYNCHROTRON

In May 2013 South Africa signed an agreement with the European Synchrotron Research Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France, allowing South African scientists free use of the facility. This year Simon attended a five-week course at the HERCULES school (Higher European Research Course for Users of Large Experimental Systems) where students were exposed to the synchrotron facility, with theory applied specifically to biological experiments. This was relevant to Simon because he is determining the

structure of a DNA polymerase (protein) found in TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis).

GENEROUS FUNDING

At the HERCULES school Simon was honoured to receive lectures from a Nobel prize winner Ada Yonath, and gained an excellent range of practical experience at four different large experimental facilities based in Grenoble, St Aubin, and Saclay in France. "I feel extremely fortunate and inspired by the training course. My grateful thanks go to the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, the South African Institute of Physics-Biophysics Initiative and the SBRU (Structural Biology Research Unit, UCT) for their generous support – without which I could not have fulfilled this dream," he said.

NOT JUST A SCIENTIST

Simon helps with the First Pinelands Scout Group, and he also plays the trumpet in the Cape Town Concert Brass Band. Along with his father and brother he is planning an off-road motor bike trip through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Lesotho in August of this year, visiting the Caprivi strip, Victoria Falls, and then back via Howick to see the Nelson Mandela Sculpture by Marco Cianfanelli. This fascinating artwork is constructed from 50 poles in varying length, symbolising the 50th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's arrest. When viewed from a distance of 35m you can see a portrait of Nelson Mandela. Simon loves South Africa and hopes to be able to contribute to its success by giving as much as he can to future generations. 

May 2014 | the muse | 12

Photographs and interviews: Glynnis Schutte

HAVE YOU SEEN HIM ON TV?

You may recognise Simon–the–Super– Scientist, who showed the explosive nature of fireworks on the TV series Hip2B2, or perhaps you have seen him on the Science and Technology series Hectic Nine 9 (HN9). Maybe to you he is the neighbour who has lived in the same Pinelands house for 26 years. He went to the Red school, Pinelands High School and then became the first member of his family to attend UCT. Simon’s current career in the field of X-ray crystallography came about quite by accident. His intention had been to become a teacher after finishing his Bachelor of Science degree, but the appeal of scientific research encouraged him to study further. During his first year of Masters he suffered the unfortunate loss of his supervisor, Professor George Lindsey, so his research was redirected to Structural Biology, under Professor Trevor Sewell.

PINELANDERS

BRANDAN REYNOLDS Pinelander Brandan Reynolds is a prolific and self–taught bilingual cartoonist. You can see his work in Business Day, the Weekend Argus and Rapport. His wife Rose-Anne is head of learning support at Pinelands North Primary School. They have two children Kai and Ella. NO FORMAL DRAWING TRAINIING.

Brandan was born in Cape Town and although he enjoyed art at his primary school in Lansdowne, the subject was not offered at his High school in Athlone. He was always drawing however, so his parents sent him for lessons, leading him to follow a course in art at the Michaelis School of Fine Art. The lack of formal grounding was a distinct disadvantage so Brandan transferred to the Ruth Prowse Art School enrolling in a graphic design course where he enjoyed the freedom to express his talent in drawing cartoons.

1994 – A GOOD TIME TO BE INVOLVED

After graduating in 1991 Brandan freelanced for an advertising and design studio. By the time the 1994 elections arrived he was ready to move on and be a part of the transformation of the new South Africa. He looked again at doing cartoons. What better time to get involved with the politics of the country and help people understand what was happening. He was highly motivated by school friend activists Robert Waterwitch and Coline Williams who were tragically killed in a bomb blast in July 1989. Brandan developed his style, studying the work of other cartoonists and seeing what appealed to him. He has always been an avid reader of worldwide news and In September 1994 he formulated a cartoon depicting "Operation Uphold Democracy" after the overthrow of Haitian president Jean-Bertrand Aristide. He showed the cartoon to the managing editor of the Argus, Tim Patten, who loved it and printed it in the paper the very next day. Patten also asked Brandan to become a regular contributor. During 1995 and 1996 Brendan was the weekend Argus cartoonist. In the

May 2014 | the muse | 13

meantime he held a job with Personal Finance doing editorial graphics for Bruce Cameron, and filling in for Zapiro (Jonathan Shapiro ) when necessary.

A TASTE OF LIFE OUTSIDE SOUTH AFRICA

In 2000 Brandan married Rose-Anne and they moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where Rose-Anne taught at an inner city school and Brandan worked on news graphics in a newsroom with 20 other graphic artists. Although he enjoyed his time here he realised he didn't just want a job – his passion was to work from the heart for something he really believed in – he needed to connect to the country's culture and the people – he realised he needed to be back home in South Africa.

THE JOURNEY TO PINELANDS

Brandan and Rose-Anne made their way back, first working in Johannesburg, where Brandan worked for Peter Bruce at Business Day. Their son Kai was born in Johannesburg, and in 2003 the family decided to return 'home' to Cape Town. As a freelancer Brandan continued doing cartoons for Business Day. From Thornton, Brandan and family moved to Pinelands in 2008 shortly after Ella was born. Brandan now produces eight cartoons a week for Business day, the Weekend Argus and Rapport. In 2013 he won the Standard Bank Sikuvile award for editorial cartoons with his cartoon entitled "Dignity Restored".

HOW DO YOU COMPILE A CARTOON?

To formulate the idea I read the daily newspapers and catch up on world and

local news. I mull it over in my mind and then choose an issue that I would like to highlight. I start the design on paper using a black felt tip marker, and when the outline has been done, I scan the picture and complete the cartoon by colourising it using photoshop techniques. The design and production of the cartoon is the fun part, which I thoroughly enjoy.

WHAT IS THE AIM OF YOUR CARTOONS?

My cartoons need to be a mixture of entertainment and education. I encourage people to think and talk about what is happening in South Africa. I like to think my cartoons have a part in maturing the democracy and making people see things from a different angle. There can be consequences if a cartoon is not sensible and respectful – but good work has the ability to be uplifting.

HOW ABOUT SHARING YOUR TALENT?

I have accepted speaking invitations at schools, universities and civic organisations like Mensa and Crossing Bridges; and at various cartooning events and book launches.

TRAVEL AND HOBBIES

As a family we have visited the USA, Europe and most recently Paris, where I could indulge in my favourite hobby ‐ photography. I have taken part in three Argus Cycle tours. Pinelands is a great friendly community, with good schools and open spaces. As a family we are enthusiastic members of the Red school community. 

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TRAVELLERS

Max and Glynn Schutte

AUCKLAND AND WAIHEKE ISLAND

We took our first clear day in Auckland to go to the top of Sky Tower and enjoy lunch in the revolving restaurant overlooking spectacular views of Waitemata Harbour, with the green volcanic peak of Rangitoto Island in the distance – a reminder that New Zealand lies in the volcanic Pacific Ring of Fire. Before leaving Auckland we took a ferry across to Waiheke Island to spend the day visiting pristine beaches and excellent wineries. Favourite food here – a good takeaway Rogan Josh on a rainy evening and a smooth "flat white" coffee.

ROTORUA GEYSERS AND THE LUGE

Leaving Auckland we headed for Hamilton built along the great Waikato River. Just a short stop here to visit the botanical gardens, because we were keen to get to Rotorua the same day. We knew when we were approaching our destination because of the sulphurous smell in the air. There is a huge amount of geothermal activity here and we visited the hot mud pools and Pohutu geyser at Whakarewarewa. Seeing the hot mist drifting up from cracks in the earth was eerie and slightly unnerving, but incredibly beautiful. After admiring Lake Rotorua, we signed up for an adventure

Tania Robbie ride on the Skyline Luge track, where one is assigned a purpose built three wheeled luge cart (plus a helmet!), and sent off on a gravity fuelled ride on a winding cement path down the mountainside. At first we were more than a little terrified, but the excitement got the better of us and we HAD to go again.

FERRY FROM WELLINGTON TO PICTON

Moving on we travelled to the capital of Wellington visiting the New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa museum, before catching a ferry to the South Island. The ferry was huge, and gave the feeling that one was on a luxury liner going through the Norwegian Fjords. Landing in Picton we took the road to Nelson through the Abel Tasman National park, on our way to our "farm stay" for a couple of days. The house was surrounded by sheep – they are plentiful in New Zealand.

PUNAKAIKI PANCAKE ROCKS

Next on our plan was to head for Greymouth to catch the TransAlpine train to Christchurch. On the way we stopped at Punakaiki to see the pancake rocks. These bizarre shaped rocks are made from minute fragments of dead marine creatures fossilised millions of years ago on the sea Left: Steam from thermal activity Below: Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

New Zealand, a land of infinite variety from hot bubbling thermal pools to glaciers; from gushing streams to peaceful lakes surrounded by lush green scenery, a result of the high rainfall. That's why the Maori called it Aotearoa — the land of the long white cloud. bed. Seismic action has lifted the limestone above the surface of the water and the hard and soft regions of the rock have been eroded by the rain.

TRANS ALPINE EXPRESS TO CHRISTCHURCH

The train ride through the snow capped mountains to Christchurch was awesome. Fast flowing rivers alternating with flat plains of sparkling granite, followed by green fields spotted by cows. The thrill of being able to stand at the back of the train in an open carriage was the cherry on top. Our holiday nearly over, we looked to visiting a Maori cultural village where the fearsome Maori warrior has to make sure visitors are friends and not foes with a frightening show of bravado and plenty of shouting, followed by a wonderful display of cultural dancing and singing. Sad to go and promising ourselves that we would like to return to explore the glaciers further south, we headed for the airport where we took a short visit to the International Antarctic Snow Centre to feel what it must have felt like on Robert Scott's last expedition. Kia ora.  by Max and Glynn Schutte. A trip down memory lane reliving our New Zealand visit to family in 2005.

ASK THE PRINCIPAL

May2014 2014| the | themuse muse| 14 | 15 May

PENNY WISE POUND FOOLISH Another very good point to take note of is that we need to give our children the very large crayons or pencils and to slowly teach them the correct pencil grip and this too can assist them later when they are needing to write more.

By Carol Booth Principal of Cannons Creek Independent School One of the hardest things for us as parents is to find out that our most special child is not developing in the expected way. We wonder what we have done to have this issue come our way, but it is just the way that they have developed. When one sees or spots that something is not quite right or their first teacher brings it to your attention, the best thing is to agree with your partner to do your utmost to assist with the matter. When it is a physical issue, then one sees a doctor or specialist and one sorts it out. This seems to be an easier thing to cope with as it is visual and one can see the result far quicker than if something is not going down the right path with regards to their reading and writing or even mathematics. This is a far harder road to travel. The reality is that if one addresses this with a positive attitude, and seeks the assistance

recommended, then one can literally save thousands of rands. It is far easier to remedy an issue when a child is young than when they are nine or ten or even older, and insecurities have set in. They realise that they are not coping and just can’t seem to get it right – and it is not for lack of trying. That is definitely not the gift we would wish to give to our children and yet so many of us do this by not addressing the issue from the very beginning. Everybody talks about quality time with our children and yet to give that hour a day never seems to fit in with our rushed lives. If we do some investigation we can find many fun activities with regard to fine motor co-ordination and most of them take very little planning. As these activities are games – and should be created as just that – your child will have oodles of fun with you which means so much to them and it improves your relationship with them. The same of course applies to large motor skills but this is far easier as one can go to a park and let them climb the jungle gym or run around and kick a ball and yet it is the fine motor skills that get left behind.

Once your child starts to read, it is so important to sit with them every single day and to read with them. We call it paired reading. The idea is that you read a page and they read a page and when the book is finished (for very young children), start again but swap sides so in the end the book has been read totally by them! Praise them so that they feel very positive about the whole experience. This needs to continue right till they are ten or eleven when they can concentrate more on reading the correct words and not improvising. Remember, reading is the basis of all subjects and affects all our learning areas. One should also ask questions about what has been read as the skill of reading is different to the skill of comprehending. If one does this from the very beginning it builds up a lovely relationship with your child and one gets to sit down and have a rest with a cup of tea! Should you need outside help in the form of specialists, ask for a daily programme to work on with your child. Make a huge effort to fit this into your end of the day programme. It is far better to do an activity every day for a short time than to do the activity for the same amount of time but on only one afternoon. The reason we don’t go to the specialist every day for this is that it would just become far too expensive. So, invest in your child when they are small and it will literally save you thousands 

It takes someone really brave to be a mother, someone special to love someone more than herself.

Wishing all Moms a Happy Mother’s Day! SALES Charlene Macpherson

082 491 4622 or 021 673 1240 charlene.m@sothebysrealtyss.co.za

Corner Protea Road and Kildare Road, Claremont ssho@sothebysrealtyss.co.za www.sothebysrealty.co.za

RENTALS Lorraine-Marié Dellbridge 021 673 1240