the Muse - Sep 2016 by the Muse magazine by Pinelands Directory

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PINELANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE issue

DR NILS BERGMAN & JILL BERGMAN BIRTH SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT SPECIALISTS THE BLUE SCHOOL

66 | September 2016

SPECIAL FEATURE Education and Child Care

CELEBRATES 90 YEARS

SPRINGTIME Heleen PASTA Meyer

CAMBODIA Community EXPERIENCE Travellers

FLOWERS Out and AND FAIRS About

think think RETIREMENT RETIREMENT think think RETIREMENT RETIREMENT thinkRETIREMENT RETIREMENT think think RETIREMENT RETIREMENT think

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WELCOME SQUIRRELS, FLOWERS AND FAIRS

Last month, a reader phoned the Muse and suggested that we should have a short piece about the squirrels in Pinelands in place of our regular bird column. We asked our columnist, Dr Callen Cohen, and he was happy to oblige, so below is a short piece on our local mascot! Squirrel - now that’s an odd looking word, I thought. There must be a story behind it, so I went in search of its origin. The word is derived from the Anglo-Norman esquirel, which in turn comes from the Latin sciurus, which was borrowed from the Ancient Greek σκίουρος (skiouros) meaning shadow-tailed, from a combination of skia (shadow) + oura (tail). So, an eccentric name that perfectly suits the squirrel’s animated character has a long history and journey from the Aegean, across Europe and onwards throughout the world. The Ancient Greeks thought that the squirrel’s defining characteristic was its fine, bushy and quick-flicking tail which seemed like a shadow to them. I can go along with that. There is evidence of Spring breaking out in Cape Town! Vines are getting their first leaves, Clivias are pushing up their flower stems and fynbos flowers are starting to open. We didn't have room for a full Out and About this month, but you can't go far wrong with a vist to a wild flower reserve at this time of year. See our suggestion for visting the West Coast National Park on page 8 or visit the Spring Garden and Flower Show at the Alphen (see the Calendar entry on page 2 for details). Finally, Spring also heralds the return of craft markets and local fairs after the Winter recess. Check our Calendar for a selection of events to go to this month. Enjoy the issue.

About the cover: An aerial photograph celebrating the 90 year anniversary of the Blue School. © www.lug foto.com.

AARON Properties Specializing in Pinelands and surrounds

Resident in the area for over 20 years I have worked for one of the top four banks for over 17 years as a Professional Property Valuer

Call on me for professional and ethical property advice and services

CONTACT Louis Alkana 021 531 5000 082 228 4445

aaronprop@live.co.za

Max Schutte

GREY SQUIRRELS

Photo: Max Schutte

Editor and Advertising

Writer and Photographer

Max Schutte

Glynnis Schutte

CONTACT THE MUSE MAGAZINE t 021 531 3324 c 073 644 1288 e muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za p The Muse, 12 Rhone, Pinelands, 7450 NEXT EDITION DEADLINES 067 • Oct 2016 Bookings: 12 Sep Published: 27 Sep 2016 Content: 16 Sep

The Grey Squirrels that are common in Text by Dr Callan Cohen, research associate at the Pinelands do not occur here naturallyAaronProperties-M5-064.indd but 1 UCT FitzPatrick Institute were introduced from the UK. However, of African Ornithology, they are also alien to the UK and are bird book author and originally from the USA. Pine nuts are a director of Birding Africa favoured food and they reduce pine cones tours see: to a central core quite quickly. In winter, w w w. b i r d i n g a f r i c a . when there are fewer leaves on the trees, com. Callan is also a you can see their big leafy dreys, in which dedicated natural historian and has a passion they sleep, which look like giant bird nests. for all things natural, including flora and Squirrels are not popular among birders trees, frogs, reptiles, butterflies, dragonflies though as they also feed on bird eggs. and mammals.

View the Rate Card on our website: www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

22/06/2016

BUYING SELLING LETTING

for advertising details, deadlines, artwork requirements, circulation information and publication schedules. Your news, photographs and stories can be submitted to The Muse Magazine by email at muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. The Muse reserves the right to select articles for inclusion and to make alterations to submitted contributions.

PINELANDS, THORNTON and surrounding areas

Gavin McDougall

Brent McDougall

073 510 0101

© Copyright reserved. All editorial content and graphics are copyright and may not be copied, republished or re-used without the express permission of The Muse Magazine, which reserves all rights. Parts of this publication may also be subject to separate copyright by other parties.

061 076 1481

September 2016 | the muse | 1

We are local residents who know the area well

DINNER GENIE We cook so you don’t have to!

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 3 September 2016 ART EXHIBITION

HEARTY, HEALTHY, BANTING & FROZEN

HOME-COOKED MEALS delivered to your home Monday - Friday 6pm - 7pm

0861 DINNER PHONE 0861 346637 CASH ORDERS

See our detailed menu at

www.dinner-genie.co.za

Tony’s

-M5-065.indd 1

12/07/2016

TREASURES

I will offer you cash for any of these items:

GOLD (even scrap gold) remember when you lost that

earring and buried the other in your jewellery box? SILVER from scrap jewellery to silver teasets MEDALS Boer War, WW1, WW2 inc badges & buttons. COINS remember the old tickey, sixpence, shilling, 5 shilling and R1 coin from the 60’s? POSTCARDS up to 1945 (1900-1920 are best) CUPS & SAUCERS duos & trios (plate, cup & saucer) OLD TOYS Schuco, Dinky, Meccano etc. FOUNTAIN PENS, PEN-KNIVES Yes, I buy AND EVEN BROKEN WATCHES them too!

Call me… my number is 083 775 00 55 … you stand to earn some cash for those old trinkets, bits & pieces that no longer serve you.

email: destony@telkomsa.net

Come and enjoy the work of 11 local artists at the Pinelands Methodist Church Hall, 1 Union Avenue, from 9am to 4pm. Admission free. Exhibitors work for sale. Refreshments available. It is essential to book for the Beginners Fun Art sessions at 10am, 12pm & 2pm. Call Joan Jenkins on 021 686 4041 or 082 8101 889 or email framejoint@absamail.co.za.

3-4 September 2016

SPRING GARDEN & FLOWER SHOW

Come to the Alphen, Main Road, Constantia, opposite Constantia Village to celebrate Spring with the Cape Horticultural Society. Saturday, 3 September from 11am to 5pm, and Sunday, 4 September from 10am to 4pm. 12:13 PM See prize-winning displays of indigenous and exotic bulbs, blooms, shrubs, herbs and vegetables in the hall. Plants and gardening products on sale. Guest speakers – Saturday 2pm: Ernst van Jaarsveld – Collecting Plants on River Expeditions. Sunday at 2pm: David Davidson – Chelsea 2016. Delicious teas and light lunches available. Call: Melanie 021 788 2840.

7 September 2016

DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP

Hosted by The Helen Keller Society, in conjunction with Dementia SA, on the first Wednesday of every month at the Society in Links Drive, Pinelands at 6pm. Open to all who have loved ones with dementia (Alzheimer’s). Call Ruth or Estelle 021 531 5311 or email management@helenkeller.org.za.

10 September 2016 RONDEBOSCH PARK MARKET

Dr Louise Wigens Dr Ryan Cholwill

ures-M5-059.indd 1

20/01/2016

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Medical Aid Rates CareCross Approved PRACTICE HOURS

Mon - Fri 08:30 - 17:00 Closed on Saturdays

Phone 021 531 4111

Jan Smuts Drive, Pinelands www.westendmedicalsuite.co.za

Open from 9am to 2pm. A new kids zone and the Piggy Bank market between 10am and noon. Corner Campground & Sandown 10:25 PM Roads, Rondebosch. Call 083 784 0393 or email: rondeboschmarket@gmail.com.

16 September 2016

PINEHURST ANNUAL GREEN RUN

Starting at 5:30pm. 2.5km or 5km. Enjoy dinner at the food stalls. MC is Carl Wastie (Goodhope FM DJ, comedian/ex Pinehurst pupil). Exciting prizes to be won. Register on the day or for pre-registration or to take a stall contact Rushda on 082 953 0004 or email rushdawilliams@gmail.com.

24 SEPTEMBER 2016 FOOD & CRAFT FAIR

Come to St Stephens Church, 7 Central Square from 10am to 2pm. Bring the family, browse through the crafts - buy a gift or three and have lunch! Boerewors rolls or fish and chips, tea garden and don’t forget to buy a plant on your way out!

28 September 2016 PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 7:15pm in the activities hall, Pinelands Library. Anton Putter will exhibit Federal Duck Stamps of USA 1934 -2015. Marilyn Crawford will exhibit from her collection. One page exhibits on the letter “P”. Visitors welcome. Call John 021 531 1954 or Martin 021 689 5050.

28 September 2016 STEEL MAGNOLIAS

A cancer support group for ladies hosted by cancer survivor Catherine. Talk by Debby Shapiro on "Radical Remission: surviving cancer against all odds". Call 021 531 3963.

1 October 2016

TALK ON NEONATAL NEUROSCIENCE

Come to the Victory Hall, Central Square to an open talk by Dr Nils Bergman, international authority on birth and newborn life. See Pinelander article page 14. In this talk he will focus equally on faith and science, and how they inform each other in his work.

1 October 2016

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WHITE ELEPHANT AND BOOK SALE

Come and browse for items you’ve always wanted. Good books on sale. From 9am until stocks run out. Tea, cake and boerewors rolls available. You’ll find us in Nerine Ave, off Crassula or Daffodil (from Ringwood Drive). We look forward to seeing you. Email pcchurch@cybersmart.co.za.

22 October 2016

SAPS COMMUNITY FUN DAY

Diarise the Pinelands SAPS Community Fun Day on from 9am to 3pm. Connect with the safety and security organisations in your suburb. There will be craft and food stalls, live music, dog and horse units, plus a fun walk. Email Elaine at elaineg@mtnloaded.co.za or Sandi at sandi@humanfocus.co.za.

29 October 2016 CANNONS CARNIVAL

Come and enjoy the fun at the annual Cannons Creek School Carnival from 9am to 2pm in Nursery Way, Pinelands. There will be prizes, rides, a tea garden, craft market and much more. See ad page 13. Email cannonsevents@gmail.com.

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

Send content for the October 2016 edition by 16 September 2016. R105 ensures placement in the calendar.

September 2016 | the muse | 2

Positively Pinelands Lack of affordable housing driving rental and sectional title market

The average price is around R16 000 per m², up from R11 000 just a couple of years ago. A 75m² apartment will now cost about R1.2m and a 90m² will cost you around R1.5m, with the bigger 3 bed apartments selling for as much as R1.75m.

Featured Property: Pinelands

The security aspect also plays a role where buyers and tenants choose to live. The Sectional Title market is generally accepted to be more secure than-free standing homes.

BUYERS DELIGHT!

Pinelands

*R3 695 000

Pinelands

*R1 495 000

Pinelands

*R1 475 000

Pinelands

*R3 495 000

Pinelands

*R3 150 000

SOLD

Those with off street parking or garages are even more popular. We recently had five offers on an apartment in Nightingale Close which

finally sold for R50 000 above asking price.

Investors driven by yields are also preferring the Sectional Title market where they can achieve rentals of anywhere between R7 000pm for a one bedroom and R12 000pm for a three bedroom apartment. We also notice that there is a scaling down from the bigger homes in Pinelands to smaller accommodation, with many homeowners seeking to convert part of their homes into ‘granny flats’ to subsidize their income.

SOLD

This has resulted in first time buyers and investors seeking the purchase of Sectional Title apartments. In the past 3 months we have concluded a number of sales in popular blocks such as Culemborg, Garden City Heights, Nightingale Close and Riverplace Mews.

SOLD SOLD

The housing market for first time buyers in Pinelands and the Southern Suburbs is under pressure as prices have increased dramatically in the past three years, with average prices rising at more than 11% per annum. This is well above the current inflation rate.

*R3 195 000

SOLD

Beautifully maintained home set on a corner stand in the heart of Pinelands. Lounge with fireplace and sunroom. Separate dining room leads to large open plan fitted kitchen with granite tops. Two spacious bedrooms with bics. Main bedroom en-suite. Full family bathroom. Gleaming wooden floors throughout. Small poolroom with sliding doors to pool and garden. Double automated garage and carport. Alarm. Erf size: 788m².

Pinelands Sales

Julie Meyer 083 288 8481

Pinelands Sales

Leslie Brown 084 556 6778 Thornton Sales

Pat Peat 083 290 1331 Thornton Sales

SOLD

Kathy Anderson 083 987 7673

SOLD

THE SEEFF TEAM SERVING PINELANDS & THORNTON

Robyn Meyer 078 359 0354 Rentals

Please give us a call for any advice regarding the sale or rental of your property. We will be delighted to be of service to you.

Pinelands

*R3 250 000

* Asking Prices

Second Floor︱Howard Centre︱Pinelands︱Phone: 021 531 7507︱pinelands@seeff.com ︱

SeeffPinelands

Pinelands & Thornton

021 531 0773

Central Square | Pinelands w w w. j aw i t z . c o. z a

P RO P E RT I E S

COMMUNITY NEWS

There’s someone who’d love to knock on your door SALES AGENTS Richard Smith 083 557 7515 Linette Smith 082 466 1825 Karen Simpson 083 284 0162

THE BLUE SCHOOL IS 90!

* asking prices

THE OLDEST SCHOOL IN PINELANDS

PINELANDS | R3.995m | SOLD

PINELANDS | R5.500m | FOR SALE

THORNTON | R1.795m | FOR SALE

THORNTON | R1.195m | SOLD

The Blue School, which is the oldest school in Pinelands, has come a long way from those first 16 pupils and today has close to 500 learners from Grade R to Grade 7. It has transformed from a community school where the majority of its children walked or cycled to school into a multilingual, multicultural happy family school drawing pupils not only from the Pinelands community but from 47 other districts.

FROM SMALL BEGINNINGS IN A PRIVATE HOUSE

This year, The Blue School celebrates its 90th year. It was founded in a private home in Pinelands on 25 January 1926, with 16 children and the first principal Miss Ross, the local forester's daughter. By 1928 the school had grown to 55 children, and Miss Mylne was the principal. Then the school moved to the Civic Hall, just behind the BP garage. Mr Wells was one of the gentlemen who approached the school board to build a school, and on 11 July 1931, the foundation stone of the Pinelands Central Primary School was laid by Sir Richard Stuttaford. When complete in 1932, it had an office and three classrooms. There were 106 pupils, Mr Van Den Hoven the principal and two teachers. There was no hall, no swimming pool, no tennis courts, no library and no computers.

PINELANDS CENTRAL BECOMES THE PINELANDS PRIMARY SCHOOL

THORNTON | R15 000pm | LET BY US

PINELANDS | R15 500pm | LET BY US

RENTAL TEAM Craig Watt 082 410 9720 Annette Mouton Administrator Qualified Tenant Database & Profile Network Affiliation | Maintenance Council Accounts Collection | Legal Process Expertise

h metalk JAWITZ PROPERTIES

GETTING RETURNS ON HOME IMPROVEMENTS

It is well known that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. National surveys indicate the estimated rate of return on various improvements: 90%· Modernise existing kitchen 85%· Add new bathroom 84%· Strip and refit kitchen 81%· Add family / TV room 78%· Add additional bedroom 69%· Modernise existing bathroom 67%· Add new entertainment area 66%· Replace old windows/ doors 59%· Convert space to home office

M a c l e od ’s At t or n e y s

For many years the school was known as Pinelands Central but in 1997 it was officially registered as The Pinelands Primary School. It is fondly referred to as The Blue School because of the uniform colour. It has always rooted its discipline and ethos in Christian principles, the motto being: “Nisi Dominus Frustra” which means “Without the Lord, all is in vain”. Mr Counsell is the 7th principal. Mr Van den Hoven followed Miss Mylne and stayed for 18 years. Mr Clarke was principal for 20 years and after him Mr Wylie also stayed for 20 years. Mr Philips left after 8 years to take up a post in Chile, South America. Miss Holmes acted as principal for a year until Mr Counsell was appointed. Miss Holmes retired at the end of 2014 after having taught at the school for 42 years - see Muse July 2014.

CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT IN FACILITIES

Parents work very hard and over the years, have added facilities such as the hall in 1952, the library in 1956, the tennis courts in 1958 and a small swimming pool in 1962 (where the aftercare is today). So each generation of The Blue School tries to help provide for the learners who will come after them.

RICH HISTORY OF PAST PUPILS AND STAFF

However, homeowners need to bear in mind that the national average cannot account for peculiarities in their areas, and should consult with an experienced local estate agent before embarking on any project that could possibly over-capitalise their home. Should you wish to discuss how to protect and enhance the value of your most precious asset, feel free to contact us for professional advice to maximize the value of your home.

Famous former pupils include Colin Eglin – a respected politician, Pieter Dirk-Uys – a well-known actor and Jimmy Nevis a talented musician. As the school celebrates the education of children over the past 90 years they remember and thank God for the contribution of dedicated and committed staff, pupils and families who have shaped the school into what it has become. Currently, past staff head up the following schools in the Western Cape; Pinelands North, Cannons Creek, SACS Junior, Sweet Valley Primary, Kenridge Primary and Riverwood Primary Eco School in Knysna.

ATTORNEYS | CONVEYANCERS AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATORS

September 2016 | the muse | 4

021 788 1439

Maynard Burgoyne

COMMUNITY NEWS September 2016 | the muse | 5

CANNONS CREEK HOSTS ITALIAN EXCHANGE STUDENTS

Southern Suburbs T 021 531 0993

southern.suburbs@harcourts.co.za

LANDLORDS

Does your rental agent include up to R50,000 per year cover for legal proceedings associated with owning a residential rental property? Cannons Creek is hosting three exchange students from Italy for a month. The girls who have never been to South Africa before, and who had also never met before, are being hosted by three Cannons Creek families. Alice Fasano (14) hails from Turin. She attends a cookery school near Milan called Magga, where she studies cookery, hospitality and also Maths, Italian, English and French. Alice hopes to become a chef one day. Marta Negri (15) attends a public school in Milan called Cardano. It is a Science school where her subjects include Science, Biology, Maths, Latin, History and Italian. Marta intends becoming an Osteopath after completing her studies. Stefania Lafasanella (16) attends a public school specialising in the Classics. Her subjects include Greek, Latin, Maths, Italian, English, Philosophy, History of Art. She is not sure of what she would like to do after school, perhaps journalism. The girls were struck by how friendly and approachable the teachers are in South Africa. In Italy pupils do not wear uniforms although Alice wears specific uniforms due to her training. Schools in Italy are divided into Primary, Middle and Secondary Schools with pupils completing school at 18 years of age. The girls commented on the friendliness of people in South Africa said they had been warmly welcomed by the pupils at Cannons Creek. They were looking forward to visiting various places around Cape Town such as Table Mountain. They had noticed that South Africans drive on the 'other' side of the road and that food generally seems to be spicier here.

Christmas in Winter DINNER DANCE AT CANNONS CREEK

Community parents, teachers and friends enjoyed a colourful fund raising event at Cannons Creek Independent School on 30 July, to raise funds for the Cultural Centre equipment. Guests were asked to bring gifts for younger children (up to preschool age) which will be going to the Christine Revell Children's Home in Athlone. The gifts for the older children will be going to the Marsh Memorial Home in Rondebosch. Below: MC of the event Malcolm Lips conducting an auction; and partygoers enjoying the unseasonal Christmas fun.

TO RENT

US LET BY Rondebosch

*R8,750pm

US LET BY Thornton

*R8,000pm

FOR SALE

Thornton

Lynfrae

*R19,500pm

US LET BY Thornton

*R5,000pm

FOR SALE

*R975,000

Thornton

*R950,000

FOR SALE

SOLD Thornton

*R925,000

Thornton

*R510,000 *asking price

Quentin Jute

Tina Ngalwa

Kate Philbin

Ashleigh Holloway

C 082 864 8708

C 071 479 7133

C 061 404 1751

C 083 566 2693

Sales Specialist

September 2016 | the muse | 5

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Experts in home finance.

Rental Specialist

GREENSIDE SERVICE STATION

“

WE ARE RENOVATING

GREENSIDE TOTAL SERVICE STATION will be going through some renovations from September to November this year. We are upgrading our forecourt and installing up-to-date equipment to offer you an even better experience when you visit us.

”

COMMUNITY NEWS

LEAP AHEAD @ PINELANDS LIBRARY

PRIZE-GIVING

The 2016 Reading Programme “Leap ahead @ Pinelands Library” culminated in the prize-giving event in the Library Hall on Saturday, 6 August. The aim of the annual 5-week programme is to encourage children to experience the joy and benefits of reading. Of the 55 youngsters who registered for the programme, 26 were awarded certificates of achievement, and prizes were awarded to the runners-up and winners in each of 3 age groups: 6-7 years, 8-10 years and 11-13 years. The runners-up were Ryan Gibbon, Aarti Ranjit and Nora Altwegg; the first prize winners were Zoë de Roo, Anna Gibbon and Zara Nijzink-Laurie. Special Guests included Max and Glynnis Schutte and the new Chairperson of the Friends of Pinelands Library, Lisa Dinkelmann. Joint sponsors of the event were the Friends and the City of Cape Town.

We look forward to welcoming you to our new forecourt and apologise for the inconvenience.

During refurbishment the forecourt will not be selling fuel from 5 September 2016 to 5 November 2016

Getaway car hire

These services will remain open WORKSHOP CAR WASH CAR SALES CAR HIRE FOOD SHOP

OUR WORKSHOP

has full diagnostic & testing equipment for repairs, maintenance and servicing

WE SPECIALISE IN

Engine & Clutch Overhauls All Types of Brake Repairs Aircon Regassing Roadworthy & Safety Checks for competitive rates CALL 021 531 7592 www.getawaycarhire.com

We BUY & SELL Motor Vehicles CONTACT or visit us

JOIN THE LOYALTY PROGRAMME at Greenside and enjoy an extra discount cash back with us and at many other merchants and shops in Cape Town. IT’S FREE TO JOIN.

021 531 7592

43 Morningside, Ndabeni

ROB BUCK

CHASING THE DREAM Rob Buck, a 41 year old athlete, is chasing his life long dream to represent South Africa at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Perth, Australia later this year. When he was younger, Rob dreamed of representing his country in athletics. Although his efforts were met with some early success at school and university, injuries and life just seemed to get in the way of him realising this dream. But, Rob’s dream was rekindled while coaching and talking to children at Pinehurst Primary about their goals and dreams. It re-awakened a desire to not give up on his own dream and demonstrate to the children that dreams can come true. With this new found inspiration, the past few years have seen Rob set a new WP record and win the South African Championships five times in the Long Jump in his age group. In May he was awarded his South African Colours and is now preparing to represent South Africa at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Perth, Australia from 25 October to 6 November in the 100m sprint and Long Jump events. Watch Rob's inspirational YouTube video - at video.robinbuck.co.za and help him get to Perth: robinbuck.co.za (BackaBuddy Fund Raising).

September 2016 | the muse | 6

COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS

September 2016 | the muse | 7

An owner managed beauty escape

HAIR NAILS FACIALS WAXING EYELASH EXTENSIONS SPRAY TANNING GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

SPRING

SPECIALS

• Gelish Hands or Feet • Hollywood • Reflexology • Wash, Cut and Blow

R170 R160 R100 R220

phone: 021 531 5327

www.urbantherapy.co.za Sunrise Park, Prestige Drive, Maitland

UrbanTherapy-M5-066.indd 1

FINE PERFORMANCES AT THE PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL GALA MUSIC CONCERT Pinelands High School held their annual Gala Concert at the Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium on 17 August 2016. It was an exceptional evening, with the concert showcasing Pinelands High School’s highly skilled musicians and talented music staff. Pinelands High School has a proud music tradition that began in 1962 with the introduction of piano lessons to students. Music as a subject was introduced in 1973. Today there are 200 students involved in some form of music training, from highly skilled musicians taking music as a matric subject to those who simply love singing and who belong to the choir. For the first time the Gala Music Concert was

held in the Hugo Lamprechts Auditorium giving the music students a wonderful opportunity to play in a concert hall. The varied programme included a guitar trio; string ensembles; the ever favourite marimba band, orchestra, windband, jazz combo, big band and beautiful singing from soloists, songwriters, and the choir whose rendition of the song "radioactive" made a frightening subject sound quite beautiful - and the realistic simulated rain shower plus moving chorus of Sounds of Africa / Senzeni Na was stirring. The music department acknowledges the involvement, support and interest of teachers, students and parents.

HelenKeller S O C I E T Y

E S T. 1 9 5 8

Retirement Centre and Low Vision Services

September

Special

23/08/201

Goodys Breakfast Now R28

Served all day

was R32.90

Breakfast Party BANTING served all day Platters MEALS Lunches Frozen available sit down or daily take-away Meals Millside Park, FREE DELIVERIES TO Morningside, Ndabeni SURROUNDING AREAS

021 531 6398

for orders over R30

www.goodys.co.za Mon - Fri • 9am - 3pm

Retirement Centre Low Vision Service

Goodys-M5-066.indd 1

11/08/2016

Full Nursing in Care Centre (temporary or permanent) Assisted Living in Home & Askew Suites Independent Living in Cottages OPEN AFTERNOON FOR VIEWING every 3rd Tuesday in the month at 3pm Services and viewing by appointment only

Links Drive, Pinelands, Cape Town, 7405 Private Bag X25, Howard Place, 7450 Phone +27 21 531 5311 Fax +27 21 531 8275 E-mail management@helenkeller.org.za Web www.helenkeller.org.za

COMMUNITY NEWS

PINELANDS SAMURAI REPRESENT SOUTH AFRICA AT THE WORLD

Building a stronger future! CONFIDENCE • DISCIPLINE SELF-DEFENCE • RESPECT

Kimura Shukokai Karate Championships

KICK-STARTER PACK

In July 2016, six members of the Samurai Pinelands Club travelled to Berlin, Germany to represent Pinelands and South Africa at the World Kimura Shukokai Karate Championships. They are particularly proud of Sensei Bradley Grant-Smith who was nominated as a senior referee for some of the highest bouts of Kumite and Kata. Sue Smith, one of their senior instructors, achieved 3rd place in the Veteran Kumite division and brings back with her, valuable

• 1 Month Free Karate • Free T-Shirt and Mitts • No Joining Fee When signing a 12 month contract

22 years of teaching experience

Train Where Champions Train

FREE TRIAL CLASS • ALL AGES WELCOME Sue · 063 430 3389 info@fitnessfactory.co.za www.fitnessfactory.co.za Special valid until 30 November 2016

ura-S5-066.indd 1

September 2016 | the muse | 8

knowledge for the students she teaches. Congratulations to all of our students who held the South African flag high, and for being selected to represent the World Championships winning team. South Africa has now won the last three consecutive World Championships and is looking forward to hosting the event in Cape Town in 2020. Samurai Pinelands Club now offers adult karate classes in Pinelands and has a membership of over 90 students.

KIMURA SHUKOKAI INTERNATIONAL SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH

15/08/2016 1:22 PM

S.A. Team 2016 (left to right): Jason Hillebrand, Timothy Duncan, Tessa Du Plessis, Bradley Grant-Smith, Ashleigh Smith, Sue Smith and James White.

Cape Town Office Pinelands Branch Office

3rd Floor, Vunani Chambers 17 Mountbatten Avenue 33 Church Street, Pinelands Cape Town Cape Town

To schedule an appointment contact Candice Bothma on 021 422 1241 • email candice@lamprecht-attorneys.co.za

Website: www.lamprecht-attorneys.co.za

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Don't miss the spring flowers

blooming now until early September - take a trip to the West Coast National Park. Call 022 772 2144 for details. Conservation Levy: SA adults R64 and SA children R32. Why not book for the Postberg two-day trail; or the Steenbok one-day trail.

18/03/2016 9:32 AM

MONEY MATTERS

Creating and protecting your wealth

The changing face of retirement By Sue Torr

Director at Crue Invest History repeats itself, but not always. Increasing longevity, advances in medicine and the new investment vehicles (along with associated legislative complexities), make it unlikely that you will be able to use your parents’ retirement plan – if indeed one existed - as a blue-print for your own.

OUTLIVING PENSION FUNDS

In a job-for-life era where pension funds were designed to provide a retirement income until around age 72 (which was then the average life expectancy), the concept of retirement planning was a misnomer. Advances in medical science, and the resultant increase in human longevity, gave rise to a situation where pensioners were outliving pension fund provisions for the first time in history.

COMPLEX, REGULATED PENSION INDUSTRY

Retirement funding shortfalls together with increased life expectancy meant that pre-retirees had to start investing in other ways to supplement their retirement savings. This heralded the formation of numerous investment models such as collective investments and retirement annuities. These new and more complex investment vehicles had to be supported by legislation in a bid to protect investors and regulate the environment, giving rise to what is now a heavily regulated industry.

THE BIRTH OF FINANCIAL PLANNING

Interestingly, the increases in complexities ultimately gave birth to financial planning as a profession. While our parents might have had an insurance broker who intermittently sold them policies, it is unlikely that they would have required the services of a financial planner with tertiary qualifications in finance, tax and/or law.

FINANCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

An unforeseen consequence of living longer introduced a new psychological component to retirement planning. It is possible that a person will spend 40 years working followed by another 30 years in retirement - and our experience shows that those who are considering retirement need to be financially and emotionally prepared for the years that lie ahead.

MORE DEBTS THAN OUR PARENTS

Along with medical advances, progression in technology means that we now carry more debt than our parents. Smart phone

September 2016 | the muse | 9

and device contracts, the growth in the retail industry and access to online shopping have resulted in this generation being the most indebted generation of all time. This debt has trapped us into a financial vortex of trying to pay off unsecured debt while at the same time trying to fund for an everexpanding retirement.

MEDICAL INFLATION

As much as medical improvements have been welcomed, they also come at a price – and this has resulted in medical inflation outstripping consumer inflation. Many employees are expected to fund their own medical aid and with no employer subsidy. Projections in terms of calculating postretirement expenditure now involves the added complexity of budgeting for future healthcare expenses over a possible 30year period.

"RETYRE-MENT"

The thought of spending 30 years in retirement is daunting for most people, and has led to what is now oft-referred to as “retyre-ment” - the effects of which have rendered the age of 65 as nothing more than a tax event. At the age of 65, many people now ‘formally’ retire from their careers and choose to follow new careers such as providing consulting services using their unique expertise, embracing their entrepreneurial spirit or generating an income from a hobby or passion. Along with providing additional cashflow, re-treading one’s career at age 65 has proved to be beneficial emotionally, psychologically and physiologically.

THE GENERATION SPECTRUM

The challenge of funding for one’s retirement is often compounded by the need to financially support aged parents at the same time as providing financial aid to one’s adult children. Being taxed at both ends of the generational spectrum, together with trying to fund for one’s own retirement, can cause enormous financial anxiety for a couple. Retirement planning has now morphed into what is commonly referred to as “multi-generational financial planning”, where the financial planner provides advice across all three generations to ensure that the needs of each generation are prioritised and met, and that succession plans are put in place.

MAKE A PLAN FOR THIS GENERATION

There is no doubt that waves of change have moved across the retirement planning industry. History may often repeat itself, but in the case of retirement planning, this chapter is ours to write. 

FINANCIAL PLANNING WEEK

5 – 9 September 2016

A reminder that this year’s FPI Financial Planning Week runs from Mon 5 September to Fri 9 September. The Crue Invest team has put together a full programme of events to raise awareness and provide service to the community in which we operate. We welcome all residents of Pinelands and surrounding suburbs to join us at any of these complimentary service events:

Business Succession · Mon 5 September Complimentary consultations with our finance and legal experts on business succession planning. Ideal for any business owners who require advice on the correct structuring of their shareholder agreements and supporting policies. Consultations can be scheduled between 08:30 and 16:30.

Pro Bono Advice Day · Tue 6 September Complimentary consultations between 08:30 and 16:30 with one of our Certified Financial Planning® professionals to help with any financial planning-needs.

Getting on Track · Wed 7 September Craig Torr will present on financial planning at the Allan Gray Auditorium at 6pm. The talk is aimed at young professionals who wish to take charge of their finances.

Drafting of Wills · Thur 8 September Complimentary one-on-one consultations between 08:30 and 16:30 with our legal advisor, Eric Jordaan, who will assist in the drafting of Wills at no charge.

Financial Literacy Course for Domestic Workers and Gardeners · Fri 9 September All domestic workers and gardeners in and around Pinelands are invited to attend this one-hour presentation which is delivered in English, Xhosa and Afrikaans. The presentation provides instruction on budgeting, saving, debt and the dangers of buying on credit. The presentation will take place from 10:00 - 11:00 at the Pinelands Baptist Church Hall, La Gratitude Road, Pinelands.

To book for any of the above please contact Erin White on (021) 530 8500 or email her at erin@crue.co.za.

CRUE HOUSE 5 Long Place, Pinelands phone • 021 530 8500 email • info@crue.co.za web • www.crue.co.za

f Like us on Facebook t Join the conversation on Twitter w Read our regular column on our website: www.crue.co.za

Crue Invest (Pty) Ltd is a licensed Financial Service Provider No. 19025

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE Swimming is good for you! For most of us, being able to swim is like riding a bicycle - a skill we learnt at a really young age but this is not so for everyone. Here are four reasons why you and your child should know how to swim and if you can swim, why you should just keep swimming…

KEEPING FIT

This one is pretty obvious but the great thing about swimming is you get more out of your session than other sport because

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it is a full body workout. There are fewer injury risks and over time it gives you the ‘swimmers body’ that everyone loves.

LEARNING A LIFE LONG SKILL

Swimming should be seen in the same light as being able to read or walk. It’s an essential life skill. Even if your child can “swim”, swimming lessons encourage stroke correction as well as water safety.

BEING SAFE IN WATER

When getting into a car, habit forces us to put on our seatbelts. The same safety habits need to apply when getting into a pool. Safety must be practised in the water at all times. Drowning is a silent killer, which

means you do not hear it happening. Water safety must become a routine for young ones to remember - this is taught when attending swimming lessons.

HAVE FUN

So many sports involve water. When you think swimming, don’t just think about doing laps in the pool, think surfing, canoeing and more. For all of these activities you need to be able to swim. Water-sports are fun and a great bonding time for you and your children. Don’t limit yourself to land when the earth is mostly water.  By Matt William Pike Owner of Swimmattix Swim School.

ENROL TODAY Monday to Saturday Classes

SWIMMING LESSONS

from 3 weeks to adults

Swimmattix is becoming the biggest and fastest growing swim school in the Cape. offering baby classes, children and adult swimming lessons, squads and aqua Classes. Internationally (UK standards) and South African quaLified insructors. Indoor heated swimming pools in Pinelands, Bergvliet, Tokai and bellville. To book or for more info VISIT:

www.swimmattix.com

or call 021 827 9768 or email info@swimmattix.com

SWIMMATTIX SWIM SCHOOL

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

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Primary School

PINEHURST PRIMARY SCHOOL IS PREPARING FOR THEIR 50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY IN 2017 Model B school, and later a Model C school, embracing non-racial schooling and so laying the foundation for a 'normal society' at Pinehurst Primary. The Pinehurst community continues to embrace diversity as key in developing the child.

YEARS 1967-2017

In 2017 Pinehurst celebrates 50 years of serving the Pinelands community with integrity and excellence.

LIFE ORIENTATION AND THE COMPUTER CENTRE

Memorable moments over the years include being one of the four schools to implement the "Education for Living" curriculum in 1993, a fore-runner of today's "Life Orientation" subject. Another was the first Internet Conference to be held in Africa in 1995 attended by staff in preparation for the 'information explosion' and the opening of the Computer Centre in 1996. The school continues to keep pace, teaching IT and utilising Chrome books in the classroom.

Above: A blast from the past: Parents in the original computer lab when it was established in the 90's

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND SOUND VALUES

Pinehurst Primary School opened on 20 January 1967 in response to a demand for schools in the area. The building went up at an approximate cost of R80 000 and started with 101 pupils and four teachers, including the principal, Mr Danie Botha. From the outset, the school had service to the community as a primary objective, later adopting the motto still valued today, “Discimus ut Servimus”, meaning, "We Learn so as to Serve". This continues to be reinforced through academic excellence, instilling sound values and providing a supportive and inclusive community environment.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY

The school grew rapidly with additional classrooms, a library and a hall soon being added. Later tennis courts, the swimming pool and an admin block were also added. In 1990 the parent community voted overwhelmingly in favour of becoming a

We invite past pupils and staff to contact us at media@phps.org.za to join our celebratory contact list Achieving excellence in a values-based community

A PROUD MUSIC DEPARTMENT

Pinehurst also saw the growth of its proud music department with the choir and orchestra performing excellently in competitions and the number of instruments Pinehurst-S4-066.indd available to the children, growing.

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SPORT BLOSSOMING

Pupils have been privileged to go on various sports tours over the years and sport has been taken to a new level since the introduction of the specialist sports educator, Robin Buck, with his passion for encouraging children to be active for life. 

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EDUCATION & CHILDCARE By Ann Morton Principal Pinelands North Primary School

PHYSICAL SCIENCE TUITION Gr 10–12 Get expert one-to-one private tuition Brian Jacoby is an experienced Physical Sciences teacher who quickly diagnoses problems and provides appropriate and successful remedial tuition. 021 531 8520 082 684 7405

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Parent & Toddler Activity Centre 6 - 12 Months Parents and babies have fun with balls, exercise, music and language development. 1 - 2 Years Tactile and creative play, gross and fine motor skills and fun music time. 2 - 4 Years Preparation for play school, developing your toddler’s independence, confidence and social skills. We will also run Nanny Groups in your home

CALL 021 531 8659 • 082 823 8360 Ofra ofra@time2gether.co.za Sharp www.toddlerworkshop.co.za www.time2gether.co.za

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SPECIAL the community magazine page12 FEATURE

YOU LEARN TO TALK BY TALKING, READ BY READING, WRITE BY WRITING...AND INCLUDE BY INCLUDING! Working in a school where inclusion is the norm, creates problems when faced with a segregated society where most adults today can't fathom how this works as it is so far removed from their schooling and current work practice. The idea of inclusion is that people with 'special needs' are viewed in ways in which they are the same as other people, rather than in ways they are different. Schools should see everybody having special needs, some just have special needs some of the time and some have them all the time! According to the Centre for Inclusive Education in Canada, the characteristics of an inclusive school are these:

A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

A school has many people supporting every child every day. The class teachers are the first 'go to' people, but children also have teacher aides, counsellors, learning support teachers, inclusive support teachers, admin 5:55 PM staff, deputies - the list of staff is endless! Of course inclusive schools aren't only about staff support either - the children's support and the parental support network is also essential for the care, feeling of acceptance and value that children feel. The 'atmosphere' in a supportive environment should be tangible when someone walks into the foyer.

POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS

Children at school should be encouraged to build good relationships with aftercare and admin staff, older pupils, and other children of all ages who 'work' within the school like the librarians, bird monitors or first aid monitors. All children playing or ‘being’

together on the playground is exceptionally positive - different aged children can play together and care for each other amazingly well. Some children struggle socially and for them, individual games and puzzles in a quiet place is a lifesaver at break time.

FEELINGS OF COMPETENCE

All children need to be 'competent' at something and so schools should try to provide as varied an offering for children as possible. Extramurals should cater for those who wish to play in teams, and for those who don't, for those who can run and move, and for those for whom movement is difficult! Competency in the classroom is also varied so teachers should try to catch children doing the right thing either in writing, reading, mathematics, performing, speaking and other skills, academic or not.

OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE

Children at school need opportunities to ‘test’ their participation in as many varied fields as possible, particularly in primary school. In doing so they learn how to function in society, in their homes and in school. Schools should offer many opportunities like best speakers’ competitions, school plays and music productions, as well as camps, tours and market days, as each of these allows somebody to create a niche for themselves, and in so doing, be accepted widely in their school and society. If a child starts at a school and immediately feels included, either through the sport he favours, or not, or through the subjects she excels at, or not, then those children will view school as a safe place to be – an ‘including’ school! 

MIGHTY MATHEMATICIANS AT PNPS

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PINELANDS NORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL EXCELLENT STAFF MOTIVATED PUPILS INVOLVED FAMILIES

working together to provide an inclusive, quality education! Richmond Ave, Pinelands

021 531 3414

admin@pnps.co.za

www.pnps.co.za

Over the last three years, Pinelands North has excelled at international, national and provincial Mathematics competitions, with children from all grades achieving. In the Living Maths Matheletics competition, one child came first in his grade nationally, two children came second and four children came third in their respective grades. Every year in the Horizon Maths competition, PNPS has about eight children in the top 200 in the province. Last year Pinelands North also came first in their circuit in every grade, and in some cases, had two joint firsts, in the WCED’s Metro Central District Intermediate Phase Maths competition.

When asked about why she thought PNPS was doing so well in Maths, Head of Maths, Shereen Stadler, said that the school made Maths learning fun by having Maths challenges in the corridors, encouraging children to make Maths games at home and then giving them an opportunity during class to play them, and encouraging those who loved Maths to attend extra classes in the afternoons to challenge them further. Well done PNPS!

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

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SPECIAL the community magazine page13 FEATURE

THEATRE OF THE ABSURD AT PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL A review by Michael Williams, Managing Director: Cape Town Opera

WAITING

Players in no particular order: Liphelo Matthews, Luzuko Ncube, Emma Williams, Wyatt Afrika, Mikyla Emergui, Nahum Hughes, Benjamin Stanard, Teri Adams, Jade Harris, Mpho Ngexe, Megan Jensen, Nonceba Radebe, Lyle October, Onela Masiu, Tayla-Rose Bisset.

Pinelands High School’s annual theatre offering was a welcome departure from the normal fare and provided the community with a stimulating and entertaining evening of absurd theatre. Waiting, inspired by Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot, was directed by the multi-talented Gabriella Bishop and explored the existence of a group of curious characters trapped in a nameless dark hole. The play was work-shopped by the young actors, who all provided text and monologues which Bishop deftly wove together, producing a profound meditation on memory, loss and what it means to be human. From the moment the audience was ushered through the dark, empty hall, up a ramp bordered with tea-light candles, passing through the curtains, everyone knew they were in for a special evening. And when the actors entered the atmospherically lit stage, dressed in period costume with provocative make-up (A big shout-out to the Make-up and Lighting teams!) we were spell-bound by the strange world unfolding before our eyes. The individual performances of all fifteen young actors were uniformly excellent. They all seemed hot-wired to each other, producing a level of ensemble playing seldom seen on professional stages. Led by Wyatt Afrika, as the mysterious Mr Giddy, they never left the stage for the duration of the play, singing, dancing and acting, displaying skills in mime and physical theatre with a level of concentration way beyond their years. With a minimal use of props the cast shared glimpses of their past lives, which was at times poignant and funny. I particularly enjoyed the Tower of Babel created with stools, the Greek chorus moments and the beautiful song sung by Liphelo Matthews, Onela Masiu and Nonceba Radebe. The principal of Pinelands High School, Dave Campbell, Gabriella Bishop and her formidably talented cast are to be congratulated for daring to present such a challenging evening of theatre and pulling it off with such aplomb! I wouldn’t be surprised if this cast of young actors wins the Best Fringe play at next years’ National Arts Festival in Grahamstown. 

Pinelands High School Excellence | Leadership | Innovation

innovation

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excellence

Are you looking for a high school which:

• pursues academic excellence as its core purpose? • uses educational research and professional growth to improve learning? • offers an extensive subject choice in the formal curriculum? • has a rich and varied sporting, musical, dramatic, artistic and cultural offering? • celebrates diversity in all of its forms? Our catchwords – Excellence, Leadership, Innovation, encapsulate our vision to be a relevant, forward-thinking and high achieving school which produces young people ready to make a significant contribution to society.

www.phs.org.za • 021 531 7410

PINELANDERS

DR NILS BERGMAN AND JILL BERGMAN

(Foreword by Jeanie Hareb)

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

PINELANDERS WITH A MISSION

THE MOVE TO PINELANDS

Pinelanders Nils and Jill Bergman work hard at fulfilling a need that they see, for not only better survival of premature babies, but improved health for society as a whole, by making sure newborns are given the best possible start in life for brain development and social bonding. Jill, who was born at Vincent Pallotti, met Nils on the Boland Trail - he grew up on mission stations in Zimbabwe and came to UCT to study Medicine. They married in 1985 - Jill was an educator and Nils was busy as a doctor.

In 1996 the family moved to Pinelands. Nils worked at Wesfleur then as superintendent at Mowbray Maternity Hospital (MMH), and completed his Masters Degree in Public Health at the University of the Western Cape. He then studied Neuroscience and the beneficial effects of skin to skin contact on neural development in newborns. Realising that he must make this his full time work, he resigned from MMH to concentrate on his dream.

KANGAROO MOTHER CARE IN ZIMBABWE

Travelling extensively to many countries Nils lectures on the neuroscience of skin to skin contact at birth and breastfeeding. He teaches staff and parents how best to use the technique employing the “KangaCarrier shirt” designed by Jill and Agneta. Nils Bergman's website www.skintoskincontact. com covers the study of Neuroscience for Improved Neonatal Outcome. His research has shown that at the birth of a baby there is a once-off "window" of connectivity with parents' hormones for optimal care-giving. The baby must not be separated at birth and for the first day of life, because close physical contact is needed for developing healthy neuronal networks in the brain as well as critical physiological set points for health and successful social interaction in later life.

After spending six months on the mission course in Sweden - Nils' birthplace, they returned to Zimbabwe where their three children were born. Jill comments that it was tough being isolated from family and friends, but she was delighted to be able to spend time with her children and develop the essential bonding required for a healthy child and mother. The people in Zimbabwe were wonderful and it was a special place to raise a family. It was here in 1988, that Nils implemented skin-toskin contact as standard care for unstable low-birth weight babies as there were no incubators, with midwife Agneta Jurisoo. Commonly known as “Kangaroo Mother Care”, premature babies stabilised better while snuggled close on their mother's chests and they grew much faster and had less complications.

DEVELOPING HEALTHY BRAINS

MOTHER'S CONTACT STABILISES NEWBORNS

It has become common practice in hospital to stabilise a baby in an incubator, but there

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Images and text Glynnis Schutte

Doctor Nils Bergman worked as a mission doctor in rural Zimbabwe for six years. There were no incubators so he used the warmth of the mother as the incubator, specifically for premature babies. The results were revolutionary. The babies grew faster, and survived better. 20 years ago he introduced this to South Africa, and skin to skin contact is now globally recommended at birth for every baby to improve breastfeeding and bonding. Dr Bergman is heading a research team funded by the Gates Foundation and sponsored by the World Health Organisation, to study this in six countries in Africa and Asia. Dr Bergman and his wife Jill, who has written the book Hold your Prem make a wonderful team in their efforts to encourage early mother/ infant attachment.

has never been a randomised controlled trial of the safety of this method! It is frightening for the parents, but more importantly this separation is destabilising for every newborn and even more so for a preterm baby. Every baby stabilises more quickly when put against the mother's skin as soon as it is born. For premature babies extra oxygen can be given while the mother provides the necessary heat and essential bonding that makes the baby feel safe and loved. If a mother is unable to have the newborn on her skin because of surgical procedures, then the baby will feel safe on the chest of the father. Bonding for fathers happens very quickly - within 30 minutes.

NEWBORN'S REACTION TO THE WORLD

Dr Bergman comments "A fetus has awareness and is born totally conscious. The first 1 000 minutes of life are a critical window where the neuronal networks linking brain and body become wired and interaction with the mother builds the mother/child bond. The DNA reads the environment (epigenetics) and if the baby is separated in the first 24 hours, the baby's brain will think that the mother is "dead". The baby will try to "self-regulate" and become independent - but at what price? This survival mechanism can affect the child’s capacity to trust, to connect to other people and in later life can increase health issues such as hypertension and diabetes”.

STUDIES FUNDED BY GATES FOUNDATION

The research on skin-to-skin contact (SSC) is slowly being accepted, as more evidence is collected to support the benefits of early skin-to-skin contact when every baby is born - not just the premature ones. Therefore Nils is heading a research team with funding from the Gates Foundation and the WHO doing studies in Vietnam, India, Malawi, Tanzania, and Nigeria in the IPISTOS study (Immediate Parent Infant Skin to Skin). The study hopes to show a decrease in mortality and the babies will be followed up for 2 years for health benefits. A parallel but separately funded study will be done in Norway and Sweden to show that SSC has important health benefits in first world countries too. For the IPISTOS study a training video will be made in Sweden to standardise care, of how to bring the necessary technology that the baby needs to the right place, on mothers chest. (Care does not change, just the place of care) This will be made at the Karolinska University Hospital,

September 2016 | the muse | 15

10 WHY YEARS OF

PINELANDERS where the medical professionals have had success with the survival of 23 week old premature babies, by using the IPISTOS technique, and where the technology has been adapted on CPAP and other machines.

JILL IS A "KANGAROULA"

Currently Jill combines the techniques of skin to skin contact at birth with her training as a Doula - someone who is at the mother's side throughout the labour and birth and afterwards to make sure that both mother and baby are kept together safely - to allow for better bonding and breastfeeding and improved health. Jill has published a book “Hold your Prem”, which includes medical references from Nils; plus 4 videos on skin to skin contact. See www.ninobirth.org.

FAMILY TIME

CELEBRATE OUR

BIRTHDAY WEEK

JOIN CURVES DURING 12-16 SEPTEMBER

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When they can - the couple like to visit the family holiday cottage, which is on *T’s and C’s apply. For fixed term membership types only. For new members joining Curves in open week only. the island of Möja, in the archipelago off For fitness memberships only. For a 12 month contract only. the coast of Sweden. The weather is chilly, but it is very beautiful, and it takes a fast Curves Pinelands ferry three hours to get there. Nils enjoys Howard Centre reading science fiction, and natural history; 1 Logan Way bird watching, puzzles and cross-stitch. Jill Pinelands enjoys long walks on the mountain, reading 021 531 1114 and playing the guitar. Their children, born in Zimbabwe, all went to the green school VISIT curvesafrica.com OR mywhy.co.za Rebecka is a medical doctor, Simon is a civil engineer and Emma is a physiotherapist. Look out for the open talk by Dr Bergman on Saturday 1 October at 9am in the Victory Hall, St Stephen’s Church, Central Square. Curves-S5-066.indd 1 16/08/201 Free entry and all welcome. See www.ninobirth.org www.facebook.com/ninobirth www.kangaroomothercare.com 

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TRAVEL

Jess having fun with the Kep schoolchildren Gabriel drinking fresh coconut water

CAMBODIA Local student group experiences life in Cambodia through Word Challenge

Alex as a teacher in the Kep school

WE PUT THE

IN MANGO

AT THESE PRICES, OUR MANGOES ARE FLYING!

Our trip to Cambodia was incredible - good fun and sometimes quite a challenge! It was led by World Challenge, which takes children around the world to learn resilience, empathy and leadership through real life experiences. Two groups of Westerford Grade 10's went. In our group there were nine girls and two boys. Three of us are Pinelanders: Alexandra Moors; Jessica Tainton and Gabriel Zulkhe. As a group, we organised our transport, accommodation, and food. This meant we had to work together at all times and we learnt that communication is key! We had an incredible time and the trip was really life-changing for all of us!

THREE WAYS TO EXPERIENCE CAMBODIA

During our trip, to one of the least developed countries in the world, we completed three phases. We started with the trek phase, in which we did a four day hike up steep hills through the lush jungle of the Ratana Kiri Nature Reserve. During this, we slept in hammocks, built our own shelters, did a LOT of hiking, swam in rivers, helped cook our own food and much more! The mosquitoes and leeches were a bit troublesome, but we had a wonderful guide who encouraged us all the way; and tied ropes to the trees for us to steady ourselves on the really steep slopes. We found the Cambodian people to be very friendly.

OUR TIME AS ENGLISH TEACHERS

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Next was our community service phase, which took place in Kep Gardens in Kep. We were there for five days, teaching children how to read, teaching them English, playing lots of different games and sports

with them and doing a lot of physical work in our free time, such as digging trenches, fixing cement, putting up soccer posts and basketball hoops and more. The students go to different schools for the various subjects and therefore travel large distances every day.

THE FOOD

The food was Asian based with rice, noodles, vegetables, fish, pork, beef and lok lak. During the reign of the Khmer Rouge the people experienced severe famine and so began eating tarantulas and crickets. To this day they are still popular. Jess was brave enough to try the "Durian Fruit" biscuits the fruit is tasty, but very smelly.

A BEACH HOLIDAY PLUS SIGHTSEEING

Our last phase was Rest and Relaxation, in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. Here, we did a lot of sight seeing and went to see Angkor Watt, the Killing Fields and the Genocide Museum - learning about the culture and history of the Khmer people. The Cambodian people have a strong religious conviction and stealing is not common - there is a belief that it brings bad Karma. We also visited different interesting food and craft markets.

ADVICE FOR OTHERS

Don't over-pack, but take at least one "nice" outfit; don't get dehydrated on the walk; and remember to take everything in your stride - it is all part of the experience. The adventure ended here and we returned home via the very beautiful Singapore airport - enjoying the feeling of a job well done and cherishing our new-found independence. ď&#x20AC;ź

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