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PINELANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE issue

108 | July 2020

Through adversity there is hope

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MEXICAN Nina TOMATO SOUP Timm

VIRTUAL COMRADES MARATHON RUNNERS

FINDING OPPORTUNITY UNDER LOCKDOWN

SOLD! SOLD! SOLD! Congratulations to Jessica Evans on achieving

Thornton

*R1.795m

T LE US BY

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Pinelands

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R FOALE S

Pinelands *R3.795m

*R2.700m

R DE ER N U FF O *R1.295m

T LE US BY

*R7 800 pm

Thornton

S BY OL U D S

S BY OL U D S *R3.050m

S BY OL U D S

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S BY OL U D S

Pinelands

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8 Sales in Thornton & Anfield Village

Pinelands *R2.900m

*R2.100m

T LE US Y B

*R1.120m

R FOALE S

Pinelands *R7 500 pm

R FOALE S

Pinelands

Thornton

Pinelands *R6.500m

R FOALE S

Pinelands *R2.295m

Pinelands *R12 000 pm

R FOALE S

Pinelands *R5.200m

R FOALE S

Thornton

*R2.600m

*Asking price

If you are thinking of selling or renting please contact

YOUR EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY TEAM AT SEEFF PINELANDS

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WELCOME

Southern Double-Collared Sunbird

THE LONG ROAD AHEAD We are all looking forward to a time when this awful pandemic will be over. As the weeks and months pass I am realising that my understanding of what the “end” of the pandemic will be like is evolving as we gradually understand more about the illness and the psychology, politics and behaviour of societies under stress. As I now see it, the “end” of the situation will be quite a vague and indefinite road towards a time when it no longer feels like a crisis but more like another factor in the background of our lives. The coming months will be difficult. From what we have seen in other countries further ahead on the curve than us, recovery may not be smooth. There are likely to be setbacks and how serious they are will depend more on the attitudes and actions of citizens and not so much the government. Economies will be slow to recover and more people will face financial hardship. Those businesses which do restart will probably take some months to return to anything like normal trading as their customers are financially contstrained and hesitant to spend too freely and regional and international trade is low. Our hopes are pinned on the development of a vaccine to finally free us from the grip of this virus. I’m learning that, depending on the disease, vaccines are not foolproof, but are between 70 - 99% effective - enough to control spreading but not to completely eradicate it. This all means that we will need to get used to living in a world where there remains a lingering (but manageable) threat from this illness. We do not live in a financially rich country so our solution will probably need to be different to “rich” nations. We cannot simply shelter at home while our government supports us until the crisis passes. Our nation has limited reserves and large scale borrowing is not feasible. Many of our citizens must have steady work to survive. As with the AIDS and TB epidemics, we will need to work out for ourselves how to sensibly live with these pests in our midst while we get on with life and enjoy happiness and laughs in spite of our difficulties. We hope to be able to bring back our print edition soon.

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, 7405 NEXT EDITION DEADLINES 109 • Aug 2020 Bookings: 13 July Published: 28 July 2020 Content: 17 July

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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.

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July 2020 | the muse | 1

Images: supplied

About the cover: Artwork by Pinelander Lindsey Boucher inspired by the novel Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl. Lindsey is a professional wedding hair and make-up artist who is re-inventing herself during the strict “no work” lockdown regulations. She loves painting pets and small woodland creatures and birds. Lindsey is working on creating an online presence to promote her make- up skills, teaching ladies to make the most of their natural beauty. See our article on page 14.

This bird is easily attracted to gardens by nectar bottles and flowering shrubs e.g. Leonorus leonitis (wild dagga). The male has an iridescent green head and a thin blue stripe and thicker red stripe on its chest (much narrower than the Greater Double-Collared Sunbird, not found in this area). The under parts are greyish. The female is grey-brown. During the breeding season the male has yellow shoulder patches which it can show or hide at will.

Text: John McFarlane, Pinewood Village resident. John has been a keen birder for more than 30 years, and is a long time member of the Cape Bird Club. See www.capebirdclub.org.za.

BUYING SELLING LETTING PINELANDS, THORNTON and surrounding areas

Gavin McDougall 061 076 1481 We strive to be good to all, and good at what we do! Contact us for a free CMA valuation www.opendoorproperties.co.za info@opendoorproperties.co.za

Harcourts Maynard Burgoyne Pinelands 021 531 3041 sales.pinelands@harcourts.co.za

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SELLING & BUYING FOR SALE

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Whether you’re already on the market, needing to list your property for sale or wanting to buy, Harcourts continues to adjust real estate processes in response to the Government’s latest COVID-19 guidance, so you can continue with your plans.

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Thornton

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Lorna Francks / Dave Brown WMB8373

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*R4,295,000

Lorna Francks / Dave Brown WMB8564

SOLE MANDATE *R1,880,000

Lorna Francks / Dave Brown WMB8655

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Pinelands

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Lorna Francks / Dave Brown WMB8562 *asking price

Lorna Francks

Dave Brown

Quentin Jute

Pinelands

Thornton

Property Consultant

C 083 659 9333

maynard.harcourts.co.za

Property Consultant

C 082 330 4111

Intern Property Consultant

C 082 864 8708 Experts in home finance.

Margi Daly Intern Rental Consultant

Pinelands / Thornton

C 067 072 6612

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday 16 July 2020

WESTERN CAPE BLOOD SERVICE

WCBS is taking extra precautions at clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic and urges donors to donate blood at the St Stephens Church Main Hall, Central Square, Pinelands from 10am to 5:45pm. All blood donors are reminded that they are required to wear a facemask when donating blood. For more information, call 021 507 6300 or email info@wcbs.org.za.

Mowbray from 9am to 14:45pm. For more information, call 021 507 6300 or email info@wcbs.org.za.

Wed 29 July 2020

Our restaurant is ready to serve you

There will be no meetings while events are restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information contact: Martin at 021 689 5050.

We are following all safety and hygiene requirements

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

July 2020

Deliveries Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm or collection Saturday: 9am - 1pm

PINELANDS LIBRARY

Friday 17 July 2020

WESTERN CAPE BLOOD SERVICE

Venue: 3rd Floor Boardroom @ Magic828, DBM Gardens, Golf Park, Raapenberg Rd

Restrictions are being lifted with special regulations in place. Please call the library to confirm opening hours and/or events. Call 021 530 7160.

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

Send content for the August 2020 edition by 17 July 2020. R140 ensures placement in the calendar.

PINELANDS LIBRARY

www.goodys.capetown

Goodys-M5-108.indd 1

Remember... You can visit our Facebook page for updates about the library, resources and entertainment.

Doctor

Dr Louise Wigens MBChB , Dip in Child Health (UCT)

Phone for an 082 529 7004 appointment 076 588 6603

www.facebook.com/pinelandslibrary

HOURS Monday - Friday 09:00 - 15:00

July 2020 | the muse | 3 PinelandsLibrary-108.indd 1

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE ALSO STILL DOING TAKEAWAYS

2020/06/30 17:53

SMS / WhatsApp: 076 588 6603 reception@drwigens.co.za admin@drwigens.co.za www.westendmedicalsuite.co.za

2020/06

Adv. SUE TORR

Creating and protecting your wealth Crue Invest is a niche financial planning practice based in Pinelands, Cape Town, and is one of only 14 in South Africa to be awarded the FPI Approved Professional Practice™ status. This accreditation recognises that our standards of knowledge, expertise and ethical conduct are amongst the best in the country. Crue Invest is a fiercely Independent, fee-based firm with no affiliation whatsoever to any financial provider or product house.

Local and offshore investing, multi-managers & DFMs, investor risk analysis and bespoke investment strategies.

Retirement Planning Retirement modelling, retirement funding vehicles, cashflow modelling and annuity income.

Business Planning

Risk Management

Business assurance, key person cover, business overheads protection, buy and sell agreements.

Life, capital disability, income protection, dread disease, business assurance and key person cover.

CRAIG TORR, CFP® DIRECTOR (B.COMM)

ERIC JORDAAN, CFP® DIRECTOR (B.COMM, LLB, LLM, ADV. GRADUATE DIP. IN FINANCIAL PLANNING)

Our Services Investment Advice

MANAGING DIRECTOR (BA, LLB)

Employee Benefits Business group risk cover, group retirement funds, funeral cover, medical aid benefits

ERIN WHITE

DIRECTOR (ADV. CERTIFICATE IN FINANCIAL PLANNING)

DEVON CARD, CFP® DIRECTOR (B.COMM)

Wills Last will and testament, living wills, advance directives.

Tax and Estate Planning

Healthcare

Trusts, estate duty, CGT and income tax

Medical aid and gap cover

GARETH COLLIER, CFP® DIRECTOR (B.COMM)

DOMINIQUE ROBERTS FINANCIAL PARA-PLANNER

CORLENE BOTHA

HEALTHCARE DIRECTOR (NATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN WEALTH MANAGEMENT)

SHANA PETERSEN

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Come and have coffee with us. We’d love to help you plan. CHANTELLE POTGIETER

HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATOR

Follow our online column at

www.crue.co.za

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

Crue Invest (Pty) Ltd is a licensed financial services provider FSP 19025

SHANEEZ BREDEKAMP OFFICE MANAGER

MONEY MATTERS

How your marital regime affects your estate planning In South Africa, a person can leave his assets to whoever he likes, although this freedom to testate can be affected by your matrimonial property regime. Your marital regime must be taken into consideration during the estate planning process to ensure that your Will is aligned with the rights and obligations that flow as a consequence of your marriage.

IN COMMUNITY OF PROPERTY

Being married in community of property can limit your freedom of testation to the extent that you only own 50% of the joint estate. Where a couple is married in community of property, they are deemed to be equal owners of the joint estate in indivisible shares. In the event of your death, the joint estate is dissolved because a joint estate cannot be owned by one person. The executor appointed to wind up your estate is required to settle all debt in the estate, bearing in mind that you are jointly liable for the debt incurred both before and during the course of the marriage. Once all debt has been settled, your surviving spouse has a claim for 50% of the value of the net joint estate. The remaining 50% is yours to bequeath in terms of your Will and, although you have the right to freedom of testation, this right may be limited if your surviving spouse or minor children have valid claims for support. It is therefore important to take your matrimonial property regime into account when drafting your Will. If you are married in community of property, your freedom to testate is limited to your half share of the estate, and you cannot dispose of assets that you do not fully own.

OUT OF COMMUNITY OF PROPERTY WITH ACCRUAL

If you are married out of community of property with the accrual, it is important to note that the accrual contract continues to apply after your death. On your passing, the accrual comes into action where, effectively, the increase in real value of the estates of you and your spouse will be added up and divided by two. If your surviving spouse’s share is less than yours, she will have a claim against your deceased estate for her share of the accrual and will need to lodge her claim with the executor of your estate. Conversely, if your share of the accrual is smaller, the executor of your estate will have a claim against your

July 2020 | the muse | 5

By Sue Torr Director Crue Invest surviving spouse’s estate for your share. From a practical perspective, if you and your spouse bequeath your respective estates to each other, then the accrual should not give rise to any liquidity shortfall in the event of either of your deaths. Leaving assets to a third party Problems may arise where you leave some or all of your assets to a third party. For instance, if you die and your estate has an accrual claim against your surviving spouse, she may be forced to realise assets in order to pay her share of the accrual. On the other hand, if your surviving spouse has an accrual claim against your estate, the executor is obliged to pay over her share of the accrual, and this could have financial consequences for your beneficiaries. Also bear in mind that if your surviving spouse fails to claim her share of the accrual, this amounts to a donation and can have tax implications for her. Life policies can be used effectively to provide liquidity in your estate and that of your spouse in such situations, bearing in mind that such a policy would be exempt from estate duty in terms of Section 4(q) of the Estate Duty Act. Your financial advisor should prepare estate liquidity calculations for you and your spouse and these calculations should be reviewed regularly.

MAINTENANCE OF SURVIVING SPOUSE

While freedom of testation is one of the cornerstones of the law of succession in South Africa, it must be understood in the context of other important principles – one of which is that when two parties enter into a marriage or civil union, they create a legal bond and a duty of support between them. Before legislative changes in 1990, the right of a surviving spouse to claim maintenance from the estate of a deceased spouse was not established in South African law on the basis that it contradicted the principle of freedom of testation. In terms of our common law, a surviving spouse had no claim for maintenance against the estate

of her deceased spouse and, in many instances, widows were left destitute after being disinherited by their spouse. The Maintenance of Surviving Spouses Act was designed to provide relief for widows at risk of being left destitute and, as such, makes provision for a surviving spouse to claim ‘reasonable’ maintenance from her spouse’s deceased estate in certain instances. While freedom of testation means that no person can benefit from the deceased estate unless that person is included as a beneficiary in the Will, this legislation forms one of the few exceptions to this principle. Importantly, the provisions of this Act apply only to marriages that are dissolved by the death of a spouse, on the basis that a reciprocal duty of support existed as a consequence of their marriage. So an ex-spouse cannot claim maintenance from the estate of her former husband after his death because the bonds of marriage had already been severed by divorce. Further, the surviving spouse’s right to maintenance from the estate continues until her death or remarriage. Determining reasonable maintenance is when consideration is given to the amount left in the deceased estate for distribution to heirs and legatees, the duration of the marriage, and the standard of living enjoyed by the surviving spouse during the marriage. In addition, the surviving spouse’s financial situation, financial obligations and earning capacity will be taken into account. In general, a maintenance claim of this type is settled by way of a lump sum payment from the estate which is somewhat contentious in situations where the surviving spouse remarries. Upon her remarriage, the maintenance obligation falls away but the lump sum that she received from the estate cannot be recovered. In terms of ranking, a surviving spouse’s claim for maintenance falls within the same order of preference as a child’s claim for maintenance. 

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COMMUNITY NEWS

July 2020 | the muse | 6

DOUBLE CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS AT PINEWOOD VILLAGE Congratulations to centenarians who celebrated their 100th birthdays in June 2020 - Mrs Doris Britton (2nd June) and Mr Douglas Withey (8th June). Â Pinewood Village hosted a tea for them on 5 June 2020, but due to the Covid-19 protocol only 12 of their friends in the Village could attend the function.Â Both residents are in good health and thanked the Management of the Village in short speeches for caring so well for them. The Management, staff and residents wish them well for the future and pray that they will experience joy and good health.

Video Viewings

Webb AAorneys Attorneys | Notaries | Conveyancers 021 013 3610 | www.webinc.law

COMMUNITY NEWS

PINK KNITTING FRIENDS BUSY DURING LOCKDOWN

By Hazelmay Duncan: Since the Lockdown started I have had many requests for wool as folk found they needed to be busy and had time on their hands. We were able to give out a fair amount of wool for blanket squares as well as for baby beanies. I regularly find a packet of squares or beanies in my post box or at my front door! The pile of squares had grown considerably since we cleared them all last year and needed to be put to use. With the help of some very kind ladies in Pinewood Village, 20 blankets were made. Thank you very, very much for your assistance in this task! Thank you also to everyone who has knitted squares or beanies and given them to me or handed them in at the gate. Every contribution is very gratefully received.

Last year we gave a batch of blankets to the patients who were staying at Eikehof CANSA Care Home in Athlone. I contacted the Matron and she was very happy to collect 13 blankets from me, for the current patients. I still have seven completed blankets here, so please let me know if you hear of anyone who is in need. We won’t be able to meet this year, but I would like to encourage you to keep on knitting. You only need 25 squares for a blanket, so maybe you’ll make a whole one on your own! I am always happy to receive anything that you have made. I hope that you are all well and keeping warm and busy. Take care. The history of the Pink Knitting Group: Pink Knitting was started in 2011. I saw a

pack of wool and needles in a local wool shop, being marketed by Elle Knitting Wool as a Pink Month promotion - for making squares for blankets for cancer patients. Being a breast cancer survivor and very conscious of the need to promote awareness, I decided to invite a few friends to knit with me at my home, on a Saturday afternoon. I bought enough of the wool packs for everyone and we had a pleasant afternoon. We found out that one of the ladies was to start Chemotherapy the following week so we made up the blanket and gave it to her. The Pink Knitting Tea Party try to meet every year but it may not be possible this year. Contact Hazel on hazeduncan@gmail.com.

TRIBUTES FOR LIBRARIAN BRENDA LUFELE By Santa Petersen convenor of the Pinelands Library Happy Hour Group

By Verna Damons on behalf of the Pinelands Library Staff

It was with shock and sadness that I was informed about Brenda’s passing. Brenda was a unique person, in her meticulous make up, her colourful dress sense and her varied hair products. She called me ‘Sissie’ and I felt very proud of it... she was my friend in Happy Hour business. We remember the wonderful programme she and her fellow colleagues presented to us last year. She was going to do a similar presentation in September - and now sadly it is not going to happen. We remember her daughter who sang at one of our library meetings ... And her very talented nephew - the ballet and modern dancer. Brenda was also the Xhosa teacher. I will miss her dearly. Her passing is a great loss, not only to the library, her family but also to her friends.

Brenda Lufele - Pinelands adult librarian much loved by many in the Dreamworld and stalwart of the Pinelands Library. Cornerstone to the family in the sea of mankind who is as diverse with many races and cultures of humanity surrounding our little Book Universe. From the demanding, to the entitled, to the thankful, “Ma B” had the same motto: “Smile and wave” for their little boat on this ocean of life might be going through a silent storm causing havoc to their inner being. When they ask for the book with the blue cover without author or title - “do your best” because the wheel of forgetfullness hits us all at one time or another. She believed that kindness is a choice in any situation. Alas, “Ma B” - the staff of Pinelands library

July 2020 | the muse | 7

were the lucky ones. We were blessed to know you on a personal level. We promise to endure just as you taught us - Semper Prorsum (ever forward). We will always remember what she did for our Pinelands Library family. Hamba kahle. Adieu. Ciao. Salutation. Rest in peace. The show will go on. The storm has come and broke our hearts Heads bend... tears... overflowing Pain.. sorrow... the grief is real A voice . .. a whisper, a gentle reminder The show must go on.... Lift your head and dry your tears Smile and wave For you are the anchor to many ......

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PRINCIPAL'S ARTICLE

WHAT EDUCATIONAL POSITIVES CAN WE SQUEEZE OUT OF COVID-19? Just as the COVID-19 pandemic will change the business workplace for ever, so will it also change the educational space. Our old system needed a change but change in educational circles takes time. COVID-19 was/ is the pressure cooker.

In a non-COVID world we would currently be slap-bang in the middle of our three week June school holidays. As things now stand, some schools are on holiday, some are operating with one or two grades only and others have yet to open. We could be tempted to bemoan the situation we find ourselves in but that would not paint an accurate picture. Granted, for many, schooling has been impossible these past three months but for those fortunate enough to have access to technology,

PUPILS NEED TO TAKE MORE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR STUDIES

By Mike van Haght Principal Cannons Creek Independent High School schooling has continued well and, in some cases, even better than before. And – it has opened our eyes to some exciting possibilities. Where online distance tuition has been possible, a number of gripes about the current education system have finally been answered and all three apexes of the triangle below have learned to appreciate the other.

SCHOOL IS BORING AND DOES NOT CATER FOR MY LEARNING STYLE AND/OR NEEDS

I have been amazed at the levels of responsibility shown by children across a broad age range. When push came to shove, children and teenagers showed that they were more than capable and willing to work without being constantly supervised, often with results even better than when they had a teacher constantly peering over their shoulder.

Lockdown has meant that pupils could access their lessons when and where they wanted – in pyjamas, later in the day, on their own or in collaboration with classmates. To a certain extent, teaching has become what you need it to be.

Jeanne Rankin (English) teaching online.

TEACHERS NEED TO GET WITH THE TIMES

Traditionally a conservative breed, COVID-19 has forced teachers to adopt new and different ways of teaching, sharing knowledge and interacting with their pupils. What some thought they would never master has become a routine part of many a teacher’s arsenal.

LOCKDOWN IMPLEMENTED MARCH 27TH

On Sunday 22 March President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that South Africa would be going into lockdown on Friday 27 March 2020. The next day (Monday 23) I saw 60 year old teachers whose only exposure to the world of technology in teaching had been to use an overhead projector, grappling with Google Classroom, Zoom, Jamboard and how to video themselves teaching using their cell phone. Young teachers mentoring older teachers became the norm overnight. Initially there was panic. Within a few days

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PARENTS ARE MEANT TO BE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE PUPIL-PARENT-TEACHER TRIANGLE

During the past three months of lockdown parents have taken on the role of stand-in teacher, encouraging, assisting and supervising their children. Not all parents were able to teach but every parent could lend support. I have been bowled over at the contribution parents have made.

everyone had made a plan. Soon thereafter, everyone was an expert, telling others about how they were teaching.

NOT EVERYONE HAS ACCESS

All very well for the privileged who are fortunate enough to have access to technology, but what about the majority of children in our country, those who do not have this access? The truth is that the challenge of technology is a much smaller challenge than the one we are currently struggling to overcome – too many pupils, too few classrooms and too few teachers.

Michael Morgan (Gr 7) in a Zoom lesson.

July 2020 | the muse | 8

PRINCIPAL‘S ARTICLE CONTINUED

Judith Herbig (Drama) in a Zoom lesson with Bridget Botha

Mike van Haght teaching and recording the lesson

SWOT ANALYSIS

At the risk of over simplifying the massive educational challenges our country faces, I attempted to put together a SWOT analysis of what teaching during these past three months under COVID lockdown has highlighted for me: WEAKNESSES

STRENGTHS • South Africa has huge technology potential. Many South African companies already cover huge tracts of Africa with internet and data. • We have the know-how; we have the expertise. We need to tap into this. • We have many, good teachers who are capable of adapting to the opportunities provided by technology. Almost all schools have some teachers of this calibre. • Our pupils have shown themselves to be responsible learners. • We have a hunger for good education in our country. Just look at the many thousands of children who travel massive distances every day, at huge cost, just to access good teaching.

THREATS

OPPORTUNITIES • Covid lockdown has proven that where technology is available and where the will to succeed exists, distance learning can be very effective. All it requires is a basic device, electricity, data and very little else. • Ideally, teaching should be a blend of face-to-face teaching and distance learning – one day at school, one day at home. This allows us to keep up with the 21st century while still retaining everything which is good about traditional teaching and being at school with peers and friends. • We can afford technology. We cannot afford many more teachers and schools.

GOOGLE CLASSROOM SUCCESS

I have been teaching for over forty years and when I go back to teaching my pupils in a classroom again on Tuesday 30 June I will continue using many of the new tricks I learned during these three months of self-discovery. Why? Because they work! And it took a worldwide pandemic for me to realise it. For example, I will no longer hand out printed notes only for my pupils to lose them. Instead I will share them on Google Classroom where they cannot be lost even if the pupil tries his/her best to do so and where they will always be filed in the correct order and where I can make changes to everyone’s notes even after I have shared them with my pupils. I will continue to video my lessons and upload them to Google Classroom so that pupils who cannot be

July 2020 | the muse | 9

• We have more pupils than we can currently cope with and their number is growing annually. • We do not have sufficient, good, properly qualified teachers for the country’s needs. • We do not have sufficient school buildings with the necessary infrastructure. • We do not have the financial resources to solve the above three points if we persist with the current education formula.

• Resistance to change. • We tend to be preoccupied with imitating European or other educational systems rather than implementing what we need in South Africa. For centuries, many of our schools copied the British school uniform – designed for a cold climate in the 1800s. We need to decide for ourselves what would work best for our country given the constraints we live with. • There will be a considerable financial implication. • It will require a well-planned, well-implemented roll out in terms of training administrators, teachers, pupils and parents. • Probably not be implementable in every area of our country, initially. • Many are currently making a lot of money out of the educational system in our country – don’t expect them to give up their meal ticket easily.

at school (for whatever reason – including COVID-19 isolation) as well as those who just want a second “look” have access to every lesson whenever they want.

SOCIALISING AND DISTANCE LEARNING

There is much I will never change about the “old way” of teaching but there is much which can and will change. I would hate to see the world of education move to a totally distance tuition model. Children and teenagers need to socially interact and school provides that opportunity. Good schools with the financial means will permanently implement much of what we have learned over the past three months and will probably continue in much the same way as they always have. However, if I was the parent of a high school child who had to sit in a class of 50 to 60 children

every day, then I would much rather opt for a system of one day at school (in a class of 30) alternated with one day at home receiving good quality distance tuition online. Teaching does not happen in a class of 60 – that’s simply crowd control.

TAKING EVERY OPPORTUNITY

Don’t get me wrong – what I have discussed here is no easy, quick-fix solution but, I believe, it is a solution to the problems we face in high school education in South Africa. It is something we could launch in those areas most in need, with all the necessary support and infrastructure provided. Before we know it, it will spread and other communities will be demanding it. It’s worth a shot. We have to squeeze every positive drop out of COVID-19. We owe it to ourselves. 

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COMMUNITY NEWS

VIRTUAL COMRADES RUN IN PINELANDS A TEN DAY COMRADES OPPORTUNITY

Many of the Pinelands Athletic Club members were so disappointed when Comrades was cancelled. There were quite a few who were training for their very first and Ruth Leverton was going for her 20th. So the club decided to celebrate the Comrades with a 10-day event. Members could “run” the Comrades, which is 90km over 10 days from the 5 June until Comrades Day on Sunday 14 June. The idea was to leave 21km, 45km or the full 90km for the last day and to run it around Pinelands.

BRAVING THE WEATHER

The club set up a Google Form for people to enter the mileage and time every day. It was very exciting to see the totals climb. There were two days of rain within the ten days, but many people braved the elements and still went out and ran.

VIRTUAL CERTIFICATES OF ACHIEVEMENT

62 “Virtual” certificates were given to those who completed the distance of 90km within 12 hours. 34 runners received “virtual” certificates with the mileage and time they achieved. The event was very successful and many of the members said they were encouraged to run more often than they normally would have done and were motivated to get the challenge done. Some knew that 90km would not be possible but were still happy to do as much as they could.

THE FULL MARATHON ON THE DAY

Over 60 of our club members were out running various distances on Sunday morning, Comrades Day - June 14th. Congratulations to four members who did the full 90km on the day - Damian Will, Ruth Leverton, Unathi Solora and

from Lee-ann Harris: Pinelands Athletic Club License Officer Lionel Abrahams. Damian plotted a 10km route around Pinelands. The four people doing the 90km would do the route nine times. The club encouraged people to make use of the route but everyone had to start at different times and at different starting points to avoid groups forming. We encouraged members who lived along the route to support from their driveways. This was a huge success and everyone, especially those doing 45km and 90km, were appreciative of the support. Many did 21km (2 loops) early on in the day and saw those doing the longer distances.

VIRTUAL CAPE TOWN MARATHON?

All in all, a very successful day and event. We will more than likely do something similar in October for Cape Town Marathon, but that is a long way off still. Anything could happen. 

RACE THE COMRADES LEGENDS VIRTUAL RUN By Ruth Leverton MY 20TH COMRADES RUN

2020 should have been my 20th Comrades Marathon (not too shabby for one whose intention had been to only ever run one Comrades) but it was not to be. “There’s always next year” is not a given when your 68th birthday is just around the corner, but a 20th medal became a possibility when the CMA announced the “Race the Comrades Legends” virtual event. I was hopeful, but hesitant. A promise made a year ago to a small, struggling school in rural Transkei finally persuaded me to submit a very last minute entry.

..MUCH LESS TRAINING

Traditionally I would have clocked up at least 1 000km in training between January and June, including 2 or 3 standard marathons and at least two runs over 56km. In the last 3 months my longest training run was 15km, with weekly distances of just 30-40km. Traditionally, I would have joined thousands of athletes on a freezing Pietermaritzburg morning, motivated by familiar songs and the hype of TV commentators, then off on the long and winding road, carried by the cheers of hundreds of thousands of spectators.

EMOTIONAL START AT THE GARDEN GATE!

Instead, I stepped into our garden to be met by my three beautiful daughters – and a grand-pup! Overwhelmed by a music montage specially created for me, the tears welled as the National Anthem, Shosholoza and Chariots of Fire filled the quiet street:

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Max Trimborn’s famous cock-crow followed by a popped balloon and I was off, my own lead cyclist and canine route marshall in tow.

FAMILY, PINELANDERS, PETS WONDERFUL

A 10km route around the perimeter of Pinelands was mapped out and three families from the Pinelands Athletic Club provided refreshments from the security of their home driveways. I will never forget my first Comrades, the Millennium Ruth Leverton running with event when ambulances and fire her grandson Matthew Hill engines with lights flashing and sirens blaring sent us on our way. I will never forget this year’s run, spotting a strait: my husband ready to present the club-mate sitting alone in her car in the cold “leading lady” with a rose, family, friends pre-dawn just to cheer on 3 crazy runners! and neighbours waiting beneath the finish Treasured memories forever will be running banner, vuvuzela blaring over whistles and 21km with my eldest daughter (who would cheers as I breasted the tape – very grateful have been running her 6th Comrades with that the traditional 12 hour cut-off would me this year), sharing the road at various not apply this time! I may never receive times with my 12 year old grandson (who my official 20th Comrades medal, but I clocked up over 23 km through the day), would not trade the experience of love and friends jogging, roller blading and cycling support, encouragement and affirmation of a few laps with me – and especially my two this virtual event for all the tea in China!  heroes who plodded, cajoled and joked the final 11km with me in pouring rain while To support Ruth’s project see: my youngest daughter and my grandson www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/ ruth-leverton. pedalled slowly behind us. To see the video story of the Virtual SUCCESS - AFTER A LONG DAY With three sweep vehicles following the Run see: drive.google.com/file/ final kilometres I finally reached the home d/1m0Y7rfD2ijr86as26nsgOzb_FcR7BCN2/view.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

COMRADES VIRTUAL RUN

By Damian Will Images by Tony Will

ON TRACK FOR TWO OCEANS & COMRADES

2020 started with the aim of getting Silver medals at both Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon. After running for years on an informal training schedule January 2020 was different. For the first time in years I put down a training plan on paper... and stuck to it. January - March had zero missed runs and 2-3 slightly adjusted ones. For me this was unheard of. Coming off a significant best performance in the Peninsula Marathon in February the target for both Two Oceans and Comrades were clearly in sight and doable. Then came Covid-19...

SHOCK AS LOCKDOWN ANNOUNCED

I have to say the disappointment in having to settle for the Comrades virtual run was small in comparison to that of the Two Oceans one. I guess after Two Oceans was cancelled we all knew Comrades was next in line and the shock had worn off by the time 14 June 2020 came... However, to say that after three months of near perfect training to have the two biggest races cancelled is a disappointment... is a bit of an understatement.

OH WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT!

It was disappointing not to be lining up to see what could have been achieved. It was disappointing to have flights and accommodation, a trip to Durban cancelled because of a lockdown. It was a disappointment not to be able to join in the camaraderie of fellow runners and friends joining together to take on the challenge of Comrades. Not to stand at the start when the anthem sounded or hear the “chariots of fire” bellowing out the speakers. Not to see the thousands of supporters lining the streets, the chanting of the boys at Kearsney College, not to take on the infamous hills and finish at the Moses Madiba stadium. A tough pill to swallow, but then again we are all in this, we were all disappointed. Some had bigger goals that will be missed this year.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON THE ROUTE

But then again, how often can you take on the Comrades from home? with all your family and friends in close proximity. For me there were a few highlights of the

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virtual run. We planned a simple 10km loop of Pinelands in order to set up ‘water points’ at friends’ driveways so that we would not need to carry the nutrition we required the whole day. This allowed for a few things. We got to see friends and family, fellow club members each lap at these water stops. We got to see fellow runners doing the same route as we occasionally passed each other. Friends were able to run alongside us for a few laps, some even took part officially by taking on a smaller distance which you can’t do at Comrades.

ENJOYING COMRADES WITH MY GIRLS

I could even take my two daughters for two laps each in the pram without worrying that it would be too long for them and be able to pop back past home to drop them off or get a slice of pizza! And so I got to enjoy doing Comrades ‘with’ my girls - big highlight! No 3am wakeup or congested traffic to leave at the end. I could even get to cheer on a club mate, Ruth Leverton, who was going for her 20th Comrades, as the laps allowed us to occasionally bump into each other, which would not have happened on the normal route.

THE REAL CAMARADERIE OF PINELANDS

All in all it was an enjoyable day where we got to see the real camaraderie of friends and family that happens at the Comrades in action in our home suburb, even if it was on a much smaller scale. 

By Lionel Abrahams

By Unathi Solora The reality of not running the actual Comrades Marathon this year was always something at the back of my mind. Somehow, I knew it would be cancelled considering the impact of Covid-19 not only in South Africa but the world. My dream of running my 4th of ten consecutive Comrades had to go on hold but was definitely not shattered considering the reality and the new normal. The virtual race was something I never imagined and give thanks to the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) for this innovative idea. I wouldn’t miss it for the world, even though I didn’t train as much as I would have wished. On the day, I told myself I would run a freestyle route up towards the West Coast, get a breath of fresh air along the coast and later join my Pinelands AC family for the camaraderie and support. Seeing my running club mates was the highlight of my race, their support and motivation carried me through. I am proud to represent such a passionate club. Those orange wings carry me even when feel like giving up.  I completed the 90km around Hawe Square (250meters), Factreton by running 360 laps. It was very challenging due to the weather. My last few laps were very difficult and emotional. Before my last lap, I got hold of the South African Flag to run with. The children and adults cheered me on and chanted my name. It was a fantastic atmosphere and very emotional. I had to contain myself and hold back my tears. Truely an awesome experience. Thanks to Mark Daniels for inspiring me to run in Hawe Square, my children, Angelo and Sherry, the video/cameramen, Deon Solomons and Cameron Morgan, Hawe Square and Hurricane Street residents, friends and clubmates, you were fantastic. 

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YOUNG PINELANDERS

CANNONS CREEK LEARNERS ENCOURAGED TO WRITE ABOUT “LEARNING UNDER LOCKDOWN”

By Jeanne Rankin English teacher, Cannons Creek Independent School

ESSAY COMPETITION ANNOUNCED BY PROFESSOR JANSEN During Lockdown, Prof Jonathan Jansen, Distinguished Professor of the Stellenbosch University Education Faculty, announced a writing competition for all learners who wanted to write about their experiences of trying to learn during Lockdown. 100 stories are to be published and the best effort will receive a prize of R5000. What’s not to like? And to be published – while still at school – any person’s dream ambition as a writer. This would present quite an attractive idea for writers.

LEARNERS ENCOURAGED TO TAKE PART Cannons Creek encouraged its learners

to enter the competition and this proved an attractive idea to quite a few. While Lockdown was happening, many learners had barriers to overcome, while sometimes also enjoying some of the lighter moments – who would not like to snuggle under a duvet, reading a novel? Or sit at your own desk, battling to solve that sum?

PLENTY TO WRITE ABOUT! Teachers were also experiencing some degree of discomfort – how do I encourage learners to remain focused, when I am struggling to see the wood for the trees? In some ways, paper could be conserved and more electronic learning would take over from paper worksheets. Therefore subject

matter would not be lacking and this is what inspired most of the writers entering this interesting task.

STORIES PUBLISHED IN SUNDAY TIMES

When Prof Jansen published a few stories in The Sunday Times, some were despondent as their story had not been chosen. Those stories were certainly revealing and truly enjoyed by the public as they gave a glimpse of some of the hard work which has gone into learning under Lockdown.

TOP TEN FINALISTS ANNOUNCED However, on Tuesday 15 June, the top ten finalists were announced and Megan Fallon (Gr 11) was one of them. Great was the excitement of learners and teachers.

TOP TEN FINALIST MEGAN FALLON AN UNEXPECTED EXPERIENCE “The online learning experience has been something I never thought I would have to go through, and I struggled to adapt to the sudden change. It took time and effort - that I was admittedly reluctant to give - and lots of support from my family and friends. I believe that most learners cope by working with other family members or with friends online. It was only when my mother caught on to my lack of work and motivation that I was able to make the best of the situation. By doing the work in 45 minute sessions everyday I found I had much more free time than before, making me feel relieved and relaxed.

FINDING THE POSITIVE As for how this will affect my future, I am lucky enough to attend a school that has been able to quickly adapt to online teaching and has kept the quality of education at its usual top notch, so I do not think this will affect my future negatively. From this experience I have learned how important my mindset is towards different situations, and that in order to see things in a positive light I must be able to see this as an opportunity to test myself and my capabilities.”

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YOUNG PINELANDERS

TOP TEN ESSAY FINALIST AMINA RAHMAN Congratulations to Amina Rahman in Pinelands High School Grade 12 who placed in the top ten from nine provinces out of 652 entrants for her Learning under Lockdown essay.

ONLINE LEARNING - NOT NEW FOR ME

“My online learning experience is nothing new to me as I was home-schooled while living abroad. However, this was not the method for me, and I found it difficult to grasp through those two years living and learning abroad. Because of my experience in home-schooling, I was better prepared for distance learning but it was not any easier.

SELF MOTIVATION AND RESPONSIBILITY

I love being in a classroom, being able to engage in conversations during lessons, and now all of a sudden I had to teach the work to myself. Going at my own pace, gave me the opportunity to become organised and responsible for my work. There were days when I was the most productive in my work and there were days where I just couldn’t find the motivation to get out of bed, but I told myself “It is okay because we are going through a pandemic- it is not a productivity competition, right?”.

A SPECTRUM OF FEELINGS

When it comes to other students not everyone is able to stay sane during these

difficult times. I think that students use various coping mechanisms to get them through this pandemic. Some are able to keep themselves motivated while others feel too overwhelmed to work or have no motivation because school work now feels optional as there are no real consequences to not completing your work anymore. Personally, I don’t think there is anything wrong with either because I’ve been through both during this lockdown and it has taught me that sometimes you need to become so unmotivated that you realise you need to get back up after you have fallen. This is how we learn - we must fall to get back up.

NO MATRIC BALL TO LOOK FORWARD TO

For many students, I think that the Covid-19 restrictions on schooling will affect results for our future. The matrics planned to put in the most this year as it is our last year of high school. The main thing we were looking forward to was our matric ball and not to have something to look forward to is hard especially when you make it your motivation for your exams. This year will affect our future as not everyone is able to cope during these difficult times. Many students may not have had the correct resources that they would have had access to at school, which may cause an

PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL GRADE 12 ENGINEERING GRAPHICS AND DESIGN

STAYING POSITIVE AND OPTIMISTIC

If one day I am able to relate my experience to my grandchildren I would definitely remind them to be grateful for the things they have, because a lot of people are struggling during these difficult times whether it be financially or even mentally. I would remind them that anything is possible if you stay positive even though you will always be on edge about it. So, to make the most out of these situations, we must stay optimistic and positive and always remember that there is a better plan out there waiting for us. “

Pinelands High School Grade 12 Engineering Graphics and Design students are currently working on their Performance Assessment Tasks using AutoCAD. This design task will count a significant number of marks for their final promotion mark and there are some splendid designs starting to take shape. Students have the option to either complete a civil or a mechanical project.

Leah Jacobs

Matthew Holloway

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inconvenience in their learning abilities. This pandemic caused major setbacks for many students and their goals. The same for the future of our country and its economy.

Oratile Lesabe

Simon Pittendrigh.

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PINELANDER

Lindsey Boucher

As the Covid-19 pandemic sweeps across the world and lock down restrictions extend month after month, many professional artists who work closely with their clients have experienced an abrupt end to their earning potential. After ten years as a freelance artist in bridal make-up and hairstyling Lindsey is one of those having to ‘reinvent’ herself and re-purpose her skills. MY WORK BEFORE LOCKDOWN

I am a professional freelance make-up artist and hairstylist based in Pinelands. I focus on beauty, bridal make-up and hairstyling and have been working in the bridal industry for 10 years. I have a particular passion for working with brides, and find so much joy in the journey of assisting them to achieve the hair and makeup look that they feel suits them, and that best enhances the natural beauty that each one possesses.

THE AFFECTS OF LOCKDOWN

Many artists have suffered job losses through this time when public gatherings are prohibited - so the wedding industry came to a complete standstill. Waiting for the restrictions to be lifted and the anxiety caused by not knowing when and at which level we can go into business again has been daunting. I am however pleased to say that I am able to take wedding hair and make-up bookings for 2021 and also for 2022. I include in my terms and conditions that dates can be moved if necessary.

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FINE ART AND MOTION PICTURE MAKEUP

GOING ONLINE WITH MAKE-UP LESSONS

With all these changes I have had to think of how I can ‘reinvent’ myself and reappropriate my skills. So I started a YouTube channel and began to advertise makeup lessons with ladies via Zoom - from which I have had some encouraging feedback... And now that I am able to do some one on one make-up I invite ladies to make a booking - see contact details below. Be assured I will be compliant with all the necessary health regulations including the protocols for sterilisation and hygiene.

COUNTING BLESSINGS - BEING POSITIVE

The lockdown regulations introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic have opened my eyes to a wonderful new world around me. Not being able to work or meet with my friends has meant that I have taken more notice of my neighbours and enjoyed getting to know them better. My neighbour, Mike, a video engineer has also been unable to do his regular work. I am so grateful for his help and encouragement in helping me to improve the video quality for my online make-up lessons!

Drawing on my roots and experience in Fine Art I started being more active on my Lindsey B Art facebook page, advertising myself as a pet portrait artist, mural and nature scene painter. I completed one year of a Fine Art diploma at East London Tech after matriculating from Stutterheim High School. In 2005 I completed my BA in Visual Art and Psychology at UCT. It was only in 2009 that I began a qualification in ‘Motion Picture Makeup’ at City Varsity and that is how I weaved my way into the make-up world.

FEEDING THE CREATIVE SOUL

Creating beautiful things is my passion. In doing my make-up work, my focus is to emphasize and enhance my clients’ natural beauty, achieving the desired look, be it simply natural or daringly dramatic. My love to create is keeping me focused and busy, feeding the creative soul and keeping my spirit buoyant and hopeful in these testing times. Ladies - if you would like to sharpen your makeup skills - book a live makeup lesson, via Zoom or Google Meet. For Makeup call 0848415809. See www.makeupanddelight.co.za. See facebook, instagram and pinterest - look for makeup2delight. or Lindsay B Art. Email : lindsey@makeupanddelight.co.za

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