the Muse - Oct 2022

Editor: Max Schutte

A MONTH BY ANY OTHER NAME...

Cover painting by Emma Appels-Riley is from the 14th edition of the Cape Peninsula 2023 calendar which is now available. This popular calendar is produced by the St Francis Trust to provide family homes with community based foster care for orphaned, abandoned and vulnerable children. The calendars cost R160 and will be available at the Pinelands Craft and Gift Fair or contact Uwe Hass at 072 631 2470 or uweh@realtime.co.za; or Monika du Sautoy at 074 915 7747 or peteandme@mweb.co.za.

The naming of the months has a long and complicated history. Our calendar has its roots in ancient Rome when the first King, Romulus, set out the division of the year around 753 BC. The Roman calendar, was lunar, based on the 12 cycles of the moon each year. Our word “month” comes from the word “moon”. Now it starts to get complicated... although the year had 12 months, only 10 of them were given names. Winter was seen as a dead time of year when the military and government hibernated, so two months originally had no names!

The year started with March (Martius), named after the God of War as this was when military campaigns resumed. The second month was April (Aprilis) from the Latin word aperio (to open), which marked the blossoming of Spring. The third and fourth months were May (Maius) and June (Junius), named for Goddesses Maia and Juno. Thereafter the names were simply from the number of the month, from five to ten: Quintilis, Sextilus, September, October, November and December. Now you know how our twelfth month is illogically called December.

Eventually the Roman ruler Numa Pompilius addressed the two nameless months - January was added to the beginning and February to the end of the year so all 12 months now had names. Januarius was named for Janus, the God with two faces, one looking back in time and one looking ahead so the start of the year was an appropriate place. Februarius was named after Februa, a festival of ritual springtime cleaning and washing. Later, in 452 BC, poor old February was shunted to its current spot between January and March. By the first Century BC though, the calendar was in a real mess. The year only had 355 days so every year the seasons slipped a further 10¼ days out of synch with nature. As a result another month, Mercedonius, was occasionally included in the year to bring it back in line. Julius Caesar reformed the calendar, adjusting the lengths of the months to bring it to 365 days to remove the need for that pesky Mercedonius. That just left a ¼ day discrepancy for which he introduced the leap year. After his death, Quintilis month was renamed July in his honour and in 8 BC, Sextilus was renamed August to honour Augustus Caesar. So, by a long and tortuous route, there is the making of the Calendar we know today. There were some later minor reforms with the modern Gregorian Calendar we now use, but that’s another story...

Max Schutte

View the Rate Card on our website: www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za details, deadlines, artwork photographs stories to The Muse Magazine by email at muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za reserves the right select

This very large black hornbill is listed as vulnerable in the southern African region. It is easily identified by its long decurved beak and very conspicuous red throat and face. The adult female has a violetblue throat patch and extensive red neck pouches. In flight this bird has very obvious white primary feathers. The call is a loud booming “oomph oomph” usually in duet. This scarce resident and nomad is found in savannah woodland and grassland. Range and numbers have decreased by about two-thirds during the 20th century and is now mainly confined to large reserves. Juveniles are dependent on adults for food for 6-12 months.

Featured bird text by: John McFarlane resident at Pinewood Village, Pinelands, has been a keen birder for more than 30 years, and has travelled to most parts of South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana following his birding passion. "Being retired makes it easier to get he

Southern Ground Hornbill

John McFarlane at the flower sellers

Howard Centre

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday 1 Oct 2022

PINELANDS METHODIST CHURCH

" HOME GROWN" MARKET

At 1 Ridge Way from 9am to 1pm. The usual stalls plus friendly fellowship and good food ideal for an excellent brunch – to take home or eat on the spot Call Joan on 082 810 1889.

1st Wednesdays 10am to 11am

HAPPY HOUR SOCIAL GROUP

Meet at the Pinelands library and enjoy. 5 October: My Wellness Boost. 2 Nov: Remember my Mother/Father. Call Santa at 021 531 2600.

Thursday 6 Oct 2022

WESTERN CAPE BLOOD SERVICE

Donate blood at St Stephens Church Main Hall, Central Square, from 1:30pm until 7:15pm. Confirm times at 021 507 6300.

Saturday 8 Oct 2022

CAPE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SPRING PLANT SALE 9:30 AM TO 1:30PM

Buy your bargain priced indigenous and exotic plants at 22 Rustenburg (next to Pinehurst Primary). Have a cup of tea or attend a demonstration at 10:45 on How to Make a Crevice Garden. This garden will be raffled. Card and Snapscan facilities will be available. Call Glenda, on 021 531 5713.

Wednesday 19 Oct 2022

PAGETURNERS BOOK CLUB

In the Activities Hall from 10am to 11am.

Wednesday 26 Oct 2022

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 6:30pm in the Activities Hall at Pinelands Library. John Stinson will show "The History of the Postal Services" and David Kent will display "The History of the Steam Engine". All welcome. Call Martin 021 689 5050.

Saturdays 2022 9am to 11am

BRIC-A-BRAC SALES FOR KAPS

Saturday 29 Oct 2022

CANNONS CREEK CARNIVAL

The community is invited to the Cannons Creek Carnival from 9am to 2pm. Entry fee is R5 for adults. There will be children's rides, music, a craft market, a food court, an animal petting zoo and much much more.

Saturday 29 Oct 2022

HELEN KELLER FÊTE 10 AM TO 2 PM

Things look a little different this year, some new stalls, some old favourites too. Come and join us!

Saturday 5 Nov 2022

LA GRATITUDE AMAZING DUCK RACE

Come to La Gratitude at 9:30am for the Duck Hunt which precedes the Duck Race this year. Your R50 entry fee per family/group includes a 3 duck entry into the race! Don't miss the magician, pancakes and meals for sale. The Amazing Duck Race at the canal will be at 11am.

Saturday 12 Nov 2022

CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC CHURCH FOOD FAIR - DOORS OPEN AT 5PM

You are invited to come and have an enjoyable evening at the Christ The King Catholic Church Food Fair in Woodside Drive. Call Nicky at 072 997 7550.

Saturday 3 Dec 2022

PINEWOOD VILLAGE FÊTE

Visit the annual Pinewood Retirement Village annual fête in University Drive, Pinelands from 8:15am to 1pm. Enjoy the tea garden, books, tombola, cakes, pickles & jams, boerewors rolls, beers & coldrinks, raffles & lots of bric-a-brac. Proceeds go to Village Projects and a portion to charity.

Mon 5 to Thurs 22 Dec 2022

PINELANDS CRAFT AND GIFT FAIR

For a variety of gifts for all ages from 200 crafters come shopping at the Pinelands High School Craft and Gift Fair. Enjoy a cup of coffee, light meals or an ice-cream. Visit the pop-up nursery and buy fruit and vegetables. This is a child friendly environment. Parking is safe and entry is free.

Support the Karoo Animal Protection Society bric-a-brac table at the Pop-up-Nursery at Pinelands Club. Donations welcome. Oct

PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL GR 11'S AT STANFORD RAINBOW CAMP

Twenty-two years ago, Pinelands High School developed a four-day residential programme, entitled “Rainbow Camp,” for Grade 11 students (ages 16 – 17) focusing on personal growth and development within the context of a multi-cultural and diverse society. A robust and challenging environment is created in which bias and stereotypes are unpacked, and where anti-racism and other -isms are probed. Privilege is acknowledged, and students develop compassion and build connectedness or “Ubuntu” (“I am because we are”, an African philosophy of humanism where the individual self can only be whole in the context of the community). The programme has at its heart the desire to equip young people to be leaders of change in our fractured world, and in particular in our post-Apartheid society.

Congratulations to Pinelands High School’s Teagan Schaffers (Grade 11) who represented South Africa at the 10th Commonwealth Karate Championships that were held in Birmingham, England from 7-14 September 2022. He attained two medals at the event, a Silver and a Bronze for Kumite (free-style sparring/fighting).

Congratulations to PHS student Ruth Trimble who competed in the Highland Dancing Nationals (individual) and Inter-Provincial (Team) in Gauteng. Ruth competed in eleven different dances and won everything in the Novice (individual) and junior team sections at Nationals. She tied for first place at Nationals and was awarded the Winners Trophy.

RECYCLINGPINELANDSIN

The City of Cape Town has contracted a new recycling service provider called Waste Want. Collections will be done fortnightly for the whole of Pinelands. The following dates have been confirmed with Pinelands Councillor Riad Davids and also with Waste Want.

October: Wed 5th and Wed 19th November: Wed 2nd, Wed 16th and Wed 30th Waste Want: Call 067 876 8320 or projectm@wastewant.co.za.email:

AttwoodTony

Celebrating 40 years as a tenant of the Howard Centre, Tony Attwood is a ball of energy with many interests as well as his Hair Salon Fables. He has managed to fulfil the dreams he told us about in the Muse ten years ago and can be proud of a unique lifestyle that balances work, play and family.

26TH OCTOBER 1982

It was on this date 40 years ago that Tony started working at Scissors after serving his national service (which is where he hit on the idea of becoming a hairdresser). Working himself up to manager and then owner, Tony blossomed into the colourful character and accomplished hairstylist that he is today, meeting many Pinelanders along the way, overcoming his shy nature and successfully kicking an addiction to smoking.

HOW DID FABLES SURVIVE THE COVID LOCKDOWN?

"The national lockdown really challenged Fables' survival! Thankfully, with some assistance from Growthpoint, (Howard Centre Management) and from Government, we managed to keep our doors open and retain all our staff. Growthpoint's changes and upgrades at Howard Centre have certainly had a positive impact. Foot traffic is increasing and Pinelanders are returning!"

TONY THANKS FABLES STAFF AND CLIENTS

"I am grateful to my loyal salon staff who have been with me from over 35 years down to 8 years. It is, of course, they who have made Fables so successful. Also, to those clients who have been supporting us for 40 years……there are still many of you in Pinelands and all have become friends. My longest standing client has been coming to me for 41 years, before my Pinelands days. He had some hair in those days – now its more for the chat!"

A LOVE FOR TRAVEL

Tony's father advised him to become qualified before launching into his travel dream. Now, as the business runs smoothly, Tony and his wife Des aim to visit their UK family and grandchildren at least twice a year. This year they tagged on a trip to two islands in Greece where they enjoyed the Mediterranean sunshine and exploring the beautiful beaches.

FAVOURITE OUTDOOR EXERCISE - GOLF

Once again, as the boss, Tony can decide when he can leave the salon to enjoy his favourite outdoor exercise – golf. He plays twice a week at Royal Cape. After striving to achieve a single figure handicap, he now proudly plays with a handicap of 9 and is aiming for his next goal which is for a hole in one!

PLANS CHANGE

In 2012 Tony had thought to retire to Hermanus and was building a home on a golf estate. The plans changed and now Des and Tony have bought and completely renovated a house in Constantia which can accommodate Des's two practices. "The project was a real challenge but was certainly worth it", says Tony.

TONY'S TREASURES BECOMES A PASSION Tony's Treasures a hobby that started 16 years ago, has grown and become a passion for Tony. Through studying collectables and treasured memorabilia that folk store in their attics, or leave forgotten in a drawer, Tony

has become extremely knowledgeable. He is able to help with historical facts, monetary value and the way forward to a new life for the items brought to him for evaluation. "I get pleasure assisting clients to gain a valued understanding of the treasures that no longer serve them. I can be found "networking" at the Peacock coffee shop three days a week." From the Muse article about Tony in October 2012 we know that Tony kicked the smoking habit in 2004. He had been smoking for 31 years. He considers coffee an addiction but emphasises how much better it is than a smoking addiction.

HOW HAS HAIRDRESSING CHANGED SINCE THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER?

"The world of hairdressing has changed dramatically since I qualified in 1980. My advice to any junior hairstylist would be to specialise in a specific area of hairdressing such as colouring, braiding, hair extensions, specialised treatments and expert cutting techniques. A good haircut is priceless!"

MUSE SUPPORTER

Congratulations to Tony as he celebrates his 40th anniversary at the Howard Centre. The Muse magazine appreciates his long term support and we wish him well in his future endeavours. For the article celebrating Tony's 30th year at the Howard Centre see the October 2012 edition page 14 at www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za. Go to "previous editions" and download the pdf 

During the Term 2 holidays, a group of eight Cannons Creek High School pupils, Ms Bartosch (Cannons Creek High Deputy Principal and Head of Outdoor Club, and ex-Cannons teacher Ms Hoey, spent five days hiking the Fish River Canyon – 72km in total. “The pictures do not do justice to the size of this canyon,” said Ms Bartosch.

There was plenty of water this year, more than in 2015. Blisters were the main First Aid complaint and treatment! The group collected firewood to make campfires in the evenings after supper. The stars were beautiful with no ambient light to detract from the view. They experienced fine weather, with no rain and very little wind. They walked mostly in T-shirts and shorts and swam at lunchtimes. After this wonderful experience, the group spent a well-deserved long time in the warm water at the spa resting their weary muscles.

Student comments about the trip:

Chelsea Allen, Grade 11: “It was emotionally challenging, but an incredible growth experience.”

Luke Bryant, Grade 11: “It was beautiful. Good views, with good company.”

Bjorn Frassek, Grade 11: “It was probably the best hike I’ve ever done. It was a oncein-a-lifetime experience.” CREEK

BEING ON THE START LINE IS A MASSIVE ACCOMPLISHMENT IN ITSELF

The days and weeks following Comrades are some of my favourite, the panic and paranoia are over, and you can reflect on the months that have been. The race itself is merely the end of a journey spanning many months. Standing on the start line means that you made it to the final. Of course, everyone wants to do well in the final, but the fact that you can stand on the start line is a massive accomplishment in itself. It says so much about your commitment, your dedication, and your ability to do hard things over an extended period of time. Sometimes things beyond your control can prevent you from completing the actual race, but that does not lessen the accomplishment of reaching the start line. Sometimes the braver and tougher thing to do is to leave the course. People die on this road, literally die. Stepping aside is traumatic and heart shattering. It is not how anyone hopes to finish months of dedicated training, it is a brave and tough decision that you will probably question a

again, when my body is feeling sorer than it ever has before and everything in me wants to stop, how am I going to respond?

I will choose to continue (please note, there is a definite difference between soreness and illness or injury – you should never continue when ill or injured to a point that continuing will make that worse). I practise my response again and again, I imagine the feeling of pain and discomfort and choosing to continue anyway. Then, when that time comes, I already know how I am going to respond and I do it, just like I practised.

YOU NEED TO KNOW WHY YOU STARTED THIS JOURNEY

I love standing on the start line knowing that there are 15 000 reasons WHY. Each journey is unique, the road is the same. Along that road it does not matter what job you do, how much you earn, who your family is or where you were born, these things all become equal on Comrades day. All that is known about your fellow runner is their Comrades CV, which is proudly displayed to all on the race bib.

Having also begun my journey of Honours in Psychology this year I have learnt so much about the workings of the human mind, it fascinates me. Few people believe me when I say that running Comrades is about 30% physical and 70% mental. This is not to say that anyone can wake up and run 90 km, of course training is required, but I truly believe that the vast majority of the population has the physical ability to run Comrades; it’s your mind that you must convince. This year I worked hard on my mental preparation, something that many people neglect. I asked myself again and

There was a time during the race where I thought I may not do this again, it is hard, so very, very hard, but the reward is so very great. Knowing that I can do hard things, learning things about myself that I could learn no other way. I know that I will continue participating in this great race until I can feel satisfied watching others make this journey and feel no regret, I’m not there yet.

I am so very grateful to my running community; this is not a journey you take alone. I am grateful to my family, some of whom understand why I do this and others who don’t but who support me anyway. I am truly blessed knowing some of the very best humans this world has to offer.

By Alison Smith. 

By Sue Torr CrueDirectorInvest

The tax implications of making donations

Donations are governed by the Income Tax Act and, as such, are taxable. Therefore, before gifting your child their first set of wheels or generously helping your adult child purchase their first property, it is important to understand the tax implications of making such donations.

Donations Tax - who is responsible?

In terms of the Act, donations tax is payable at a flat rate of 20% on the value of the property disposed of by donation up to R30 million, where-after donations tax is payable at a rate of 25%, subject to a number of exemptions which we have set out further below. A donation is deemed to be effective from the date on which all legal formalities have been complied with and, once finalised, has tax implications that the donor and donee should be aware of, specifically when it comes to reporting to SARS. Further, while donations tax is generally payable by the person making the donation, keep in mind that where the donor fails to pay the tax within a certain period of time, the donor and donee can become jointly and severally liable for the tax.

What are the exemptions?

Defined by the Income Tax Act as the ‘gratuitous disposal of property including any gratuitous waiver or renunciation of a right’, to qualify as a donation it must be apparent that the donee had no expectation of receiving something in return. Remember, in terms of the Act, where an asset is disposed of for an ‘inadequate consideration’, the difference between the value of the asset and the consideration given will be considered a donation and subject to donations tax to the extent that it does not qualify as an exemption. In terms of Section 56(1), some of the exemptions include the following:

• The first R100 000 of property donated by an individual in a year of assessment is exempt from donations tax.

• Donations between spouses are exempt from donations tax and are not required to be declared when filing tax returns.

• Donations made in terms of a valid Will

are not taxable.

• Donations to any sphere of government or a registered political party are not taxable.

• Donations mortis causa.

• Any donation of which the donee will not benefit until the death of the donor i.e. executory donations.

• Donations made towards the bona fide maintenance of another person, subject to the SARS Commissioner deeming the maintenance to be reasonable

The Donee's responsibility

Once the donation has been formalised, the donor must complete an IT144 form and submit it to the nearest SARS office, following which he is required to pay donations tax at the end of the month following the month in which the donation was made. Remember, while the donee is not liable for paying donations tax, he is required to declare the donation on their tax return as an ‘Amount Considered NonTaxable’, bearing in mind that taxpayers are required to declare all taxable and nontaxable income.

Donations to approved PBO's

While not tax-exempt, donations to certain approved public benefit organisations (PBOs) are tax-deductible to the extent that the donation does not exceed 10% of the donor’s taxable income. Any donations exceeding 10% of taxable income will be treated as a donation made in the following year of assessment. However, for an individual to qualify for this tax exemption, he must be in receipt of a Section 18A certificate issued by the PBO which is granted by the Tax Exemption Unit of SARS.

Seek professional advice

As is evident from the above, it is important to think carefully before making any form of donation and to reduce all donations or gifts to writing as proof of the nature of the transaction. Keeping the annual donations tax exemption of individuals in mind, you may require advice in structuring your intended donation over time to avoid paying unnecessary tax. 

Crue Invest is a professional financial planning practice based in Pinelands, Cape Town, and is one of only 14 practices in South Africa to be awarded the FPI Approved Professional Practice™ accreditation.

This accreditation recognises that our practice meets the highest ethical standards in pursuance of our profession, and reinforces that our standards in terms of knowledge, expertise and ethical conduct are amongst the best in the country.

Creating and protecting your wealth 5 Long Place, Pinelands 021 530 8500 email

Devon Card, Craig Torr, Eric Jordaan, Sue Torr, Hannah Myburgh, Cherise Erasmus, Sherry Tapfuma, Chantelle Potgieter, Corlene Botha, Gareth Collier, Erin White, Ayden Reeks, Alex Odendaal, Shaneez Bredekamp

AMAZON ADVENTURE

By Judith Gordon

We marvelled at the scene at La Torre, one of three iron towers supporting the 36m high canopy walk stretching 275m over the Amazon rain forest, home to thousands of multi-coloured birds – toucans, parrots, kingfishers – swooping, gliding, diving and calling. Our little group was being led by Pablo Maya, the wise and knowledgeable guide employed by Sacha Lodge, one of several lodges on the River Napo which flows into the Amazon further downstream. Sacha boasts other towers, similar to the one at La Selva Lodge where I stayed previously. Sacha means forest in Quechua, the lingua franca of the Andes spoken by twelve million people and predating the Incas. La Selva is Spanish for the forest. The tourist approach is by air from Quito, capital of Ecuador, past a line of dusky blue volcanoes including snowcapped Cotopaxi. On my first trip, the aircraft resembled the proverbial vacuum cleaner with wings, but after covid, Latam Air took over with bigger, faster planes. As seen from above, the deep green forest is patterned by snaking brown rivers. At the confluence of the Coca and Napo Rivers lay our destination, El Coca or Puerto Francisco de Orellana, a rough and bustling town of about 50 000 inhabitants. Motorised canoes take tourists down the river, a journey of between two and three hours, although the less picturesque bright yellow river taxis carrying local people to and from Coca were much quicker.

From the disembarkation point there is a half-hour walk through the jungle on muddy paths almost hidden by the heavy undergrowth. Luggage is taken on carts pulled by the strong porters but you must carry your hand luggage. You reach a small open building with conveniences and drinking water prior to re-embarkation

on a canoe paddled by a silent, very skilled oarsman. Iridescent blue butterflies dart out of the greenery, and insects and frogs provide a lulling background hum.

Sacha Lodge is situated on the Pilchicocha Lagoon, and La Selva is on the edge of the Yasuni National Park within Ecuador’s Yasuni Biosphere Reserve. Accommodation at both is in wooden chalets, dark and blissfully air-conditioned, and meals are served in the various openair restaurants. Both Lodges are of five-star quality. The daily pattern is an early start to an expedition either through the forest or on the river, for example to a clay lick where over a hundred squawking vivid green parrots gather to take their turn at the steep bank to eat a little clay to help their digestive systems. Both lodges support indigenous villages. As long as the majority of these villagers speak Quechua at home they are protected by the government, although Spanish is taught in school. This protection is removed if Spanish takes over as the home language of the majority, a system aimed at preserving the way of life of the rural communities. The Lodges take tourists to the villages under very controlled conditions. We were asked to keep photography to a minimum, and to be unobtrusive in our behaviour. At the first village we peeped at serious, brown-eyed children in the three school classrooms. The second village had a large “hall” open at the sides where we were invited to sit down and hear (in Spanish) about how the women, taking with them a big basket, a machete and their young children, set out for to the family allotment to gather food, including yuca, plantain and heart of palm. Some previously cooked food was spread out on a large leaf, and we were invited to sit and partake of the feast, especially the roasted larva of weevils, crunchy and tasting like bacon.

The people are very respectful of all the forest plants and animals. Bullet ants have an exceptionally painful sting, and we were warned not to rest our arms on tree branches or logs as ants could be anywhere. When a boy becomes a man, he must hold his hand in a bullet ant nest for ten seconds. The leaf-cutter ants are on the forest floor, noticeable for carrying the upright bright green section of leaf which they have cut.

In David Attenborough’s documentary they walk in neat lines, but our ones muddled along randomly. They carry the leaf pieces back to the nest and then help the leaves decay with saliva and excrement to make a fungus in which the eggs hatch. The queen lays up to 3 000 eggs a day and then moves on to a new nest.

Trees grow up and fall down, creating patches of darkness and sunlight beneath. Apparently moving to stay in the sun is a plant with long pale woody roots. The roots on the newly-dark side wither and die, and fresh roots are put out into the new sunny patch so the plant appears to be “walking” slowly, like the triffids in John Wyndham’s science fiction novel, The Day of the Triffids. Our anaconda was draped round a log at the side of the river, shielded by a bush. The guide excitedly paddled round behind the bush. “It’s all right – he’s sleeping.” Nearby, a sleepy sloth was hanging on a branch high in the tallest tree. He moved his arm as if to wave at us.

The last night was crystal clear and windless, and after a fairytale canoe ride, our final treat came when the canoe slid soundlessly down the centre of the vast inky river parting the reflection of myriads of sparkling stars above. We returned to our chalets to be ready by 05:30 for the canoe back to El Coca, Quito and home. 

Images below from left:

"The walking tree"; the waving sloth; squirrel monkey; iridescent blue butterfly.

Canopy walk

CODING AND ROBOTICS AT PNPS IN 2023

Written by PNPS staff Tamsin Carelse, Shanique Adamson and Martin Adamson.

Coding and Robotics open many doors for Pinelands North Primary School (PNPS) pupils by teaching them Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills, problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and how to be responsible digital citizens.

PNPS invited to EXPO

The first WCED Coding and Robotics expo was hosted at Oude Molen Technical High School on 10 September. Twelve schools attended, being a mixture of primary and high schools. They are all pilot schools for the WCED Coding and Robotics curriculum. However, PNPS was one of only two schools with Foundation Phase pupils showcasing their knowledge and skills.

Learning from other schools

On the day, PNPS Intermediate Phase/Senior Phase pupils showcased the games they created using Scratch on Chromebooks. The Foundation Phase pupils explained how they programmed Blue Bots by playing a game of snakes and ladders. The pupils also enjoyed learning about Reach robots and working with Micro bits.

Coding & Robotics compulsory in 2024 Coding and Robotics is offered as an extramural subject at PNPS, focusing on learning coding through gamification.

The Department of Basic Education has announced that Coding and Robotics will be a compulsory subject in 2024. Therefore PNPS has decided to integrate the subject into their curriculum from 2023. The staff have been for training in Coding and Robotics and have researched and received guidance from several coding experts on purchasing devices such as Blue Bots and

Micro bits in order to enhance the coding curriculum.

Teachers are preparing for 2024

In 2023, teachers will be guided on creative ways to integrate coding within other subjects. One specialized lesson per week will be taught by coding specialist teachers focusing on specific coding skills such as patterns, robotics, algorithms, communication and application skills. Enthusiastic PNPS staff will develop a coding curriculum that will align with the CAPS requirements.

The 4th industrial revolution PNPS has already begun introducing computational skills, such as digital citizenship and basic coding skills to prepare pupils for the digital world. PNPS is showing that coding is actually a part of everyday life and by acknowledging the 4th industrial revolution PNPS is striving to equip pupils for what lies ahead. (4th industrial revolution Wikipaedia: The joining of technologies such as artificial intelligence, gene editing and advanced robotics that blur the lines between the physical, digital, and biological worlds.)

Congratulations to Caitlin Groves (Grade 10) and Tanaka Joubert (Grade 5) two Cannons Creek Independent School pupils, who were selected for the Western Cape team to compete at the 2022 GSA Gym Games at the University of Pretoria from 30 September to 4 October.

Both girls attended the Western Cape Gymnastics Association trials, held on the weekend of 19-21 August. Caitlin competed in Level 10, over 15 year age category where the elements that were covered were hoops, clubs and ribbon.

Tanaka competed in Level 6, under 11year age category (individual) where she

covered freehand, ball, and clubs. She also competed in the Groups event, where the team won GOLD!

Caitlin: "It is exciting, but nerve-racking as there are lots of people in my age-group. This is the sixth time I've made the team."

Tanaka: "At the trials, it was really exciting. I set this as a goal to work towards, and I am pleased as it is my first time making the team. I had to put in 4-6 hours of practice a

PINEHURST PRIMARY PRESTIGE MUSIC CONCERT

Pinehurst Primary Music Department and learners held their annual Prestige Music Concert on 6 September 2022. It was such a professional showcase of a wide variety of genres from the musicians who proudly staged items from Africa to the Celtic countries; traditional to John Williams, and solos to a massed item. How pleasant it was to share music with family and friends, the school hall filled to the brim. The quick and faultless interchanges between performances were incredible.

The music was of a very high calibre and the audience was amazed at the quality of musicianship at such a young age. It is wonderful to witness the growth of the performers as soloists, ensemble, orchestra and choir members over a period of months of intense rehearsals. Pinehurst looks forward with great anticipation to their young musicians performing at the Midi Maestros Concert, the Grade 7 Farewell Concert and the Prize Giving Ceremonies next term.

CANNONS CREEK AT THE CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL EISTEDDFOD

pupils are to be congratulated on their outstanding performance and impressive achievements. Twelve pupils achieved the highest accolade in the Poetry section,

On 27 August, 19 pupils from Cannons Creek Independent School participated in the Cape Town International Eisteddfod held in Rondebosch. These

Poetry: Lauren Barnard, Mia Nasson, Asma Ahmed, Khloe Potgieter, Vincent Swanepoel, Georgie Jellicoe. Front: Florie Davids, Kiara Puccini, Casey Laver, Safiya Rooknodien, Abigail Odendaal, Amara Bosch (absent Freddie Le Roux).

Prepared Reading: Georgie Crede, Casey Laver (Gold Diploma), Kai De Kock (Gold Diploma), Richard Du Plessis, and Nuah Ramlal.

namely Gold Diploma, while two achieved Highest Honours. In Prepared Reading, two pupils achieved Gold Diploma and three obtained Highest Honours.

ST GEORGE'S GRAMMAR SCHOOL THE COURAGE TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT

St George’s is a school that delivers all-round, differentiated education where pupils are encouraged to become rigorous thinkers as well as curious learners in a dynamic and happy environment.

As we journey towards celebrating 175 years in 2023, we look forward to continually meeting the needs of our pupils and helping them grow into citizens of the world.

To the dynamic richness of our environment,

Richmond 021 689

The journey towards 175 years

On the journey towards 175 years of independently educating thousands of young people in South Africa, St George’s Grammar School has experienced many interesting years.

Founder Bishop Robert Gray

Although some believe the school could have started in 1844, the school properly came into being in 1848. This after the arrival of Bishop Robert Gray, the school’s founder, who first explored establishing a traditional “Grammar School” in Cape Town.

The bond with St George's Cathedral

From its early days, the school has had a close and interwoven relationship with St George’s Cathedral. Not only was the school first located on the grounds of the presentday Cathedral but many of its pupils formed part of the church choir and still do today.

The only difference today is that it is both boys and girls who have the opportunity to be part of the choir.

Architectural plans by Sir Herbert Baker

It was after Bishop Gray first explored establishing the school that he initiated a move to secure a proper and fitting building for the school. The foundation stone of the new school building was laid on 8 August 1903 according to plans drawn up by the architect Sir Herbert Baker. The completed building was handed over to the school committee in 1904, with the official opening on 13 April 1904 conducted by Archbishop William West Jones.

The badge of St George and the dragon

It was during the Headship of Samuel Pinchin (1897 – 1905) that the school’s original badge (a diagonal badge of old gold in the centre, flanked by two dark brown bands) was changed to depict St George in full armour and mounted upon his horse killing the dragon. Below the badge appeared the words "Virtute et Valore"– the school’s motto.

The courage to do what is right

When the school moved to the new buildings next to the Cathedral, the school’s badge was changed again by Pinchin to a one similar to the coat of arms of the Diocese in Cape Town (see image). This badge is still proudly used today by the school’s alumni association, the Old Georgian Union, which was first established in 1906.

Over the years, the school’s motto has been translated as: "by virtue and valour; "by courage and valour", to what the school is currently using "The Courage to do what is Right".

In 1935 the badge is simplified

After Rev Cecil Tugman took over as Headmaster in 1935, the school’s badge was again changed to a simple cross outlined in gold on a black background. From this evolved the badge which the school uses

today – a solid cross of yellow on a black background.

Rev Tugman purchases Bloemendal Estate - the school's current location

It was also during his time, due to a lack of sporting and boarding facilities for a growing school, that Rev Tugman initiated an investigation into the purchase of the Bloemendal Estate – the school’s current location. In 1936, this became a reality with the purchase (Rev Tugman using his own funds) of the Old Priory and Bloemendal Estate for a sum of £7 250 for about 4.3 hectares of land. In January of 1938 a group of about 40 boarders moved to the Bloemendal campus. For a good number of years, these boarders walked to Mowbray station every morning to catch the train to Cape Town station from where they walked to the Cathedral grounds that housed the school. The whole process was then reversed in the afternoons.

Next instalment in the November Muse Talk of moving the whole campus to the Bloemendal Estate commenced in 1940 … to be continued in November edition. 

Watercolour image above: Bloemendal House, painted by Mr W Woodman, who lived next to the campus and on retirement took up painting and did a series of six watercolours which are on display in the Bloemendal House foyer.

By Heleen Meyer

Pinelands resident, foodie and author of Food from the Heart, and Make five/Maak vyf

Green beans with almonds and mushrooms

Serves 4 – 6

80 ml (1� 3 cup) flaked almonds

30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil

250 g sliced brown mushrooms

15 ml (1 tbsp) balsamic vinegar

300 g thin green beans

salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat a large frying pan over medium temperature. Toast the almonds, without any oil, until light golden brown – keep an eye on these as they can easily burn. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Heat half of the oil in the same pan and sauté the mushrooms in two batches until cooked. Place the mushrooms in a bowl, mix in the balsamic vinegar and set aside.

3. Pour the remaining oil into the pan and sauté the green beans until just cooked, but still bright green. You can also do it in batches if your pan is not big enough.

4. Add the mushrooms to the beans and toss well until all the ingredients are warm. Spoon onto a serving dish. Season to taste and sprinkle with the almonds.

5. Serve immediately as a side dish.

Keep it simple & delicious

While writing this article, the calendar says that it should be spring, but the weather is still undecided. One day it is freezing cold with rain and wind and the next, the sun does its utmost to warm up the earth a bit. So, thinking of warmer and sunny weather is quite difficult at times, but by the time that you read this, I do hope that spring has sprung properly.

I’m indeed looking forward to some outdoor meals and lighting the fire for a spring braai or two. Whether you are going to braai or are preparing meat in the oven, this simple, yet tasty side dish is ready in no time. The flavour of panfried mushrooms and lightly cooked green beans with a bit of balsamic vinegar and toasted almonds makes an ideal side dish. It’s delicious with any

roasted meat, chicken and even fish. Green beans are so easy to prepare. The secret is not to overcook them, so that they are still bright green and crunchy. This recipe is a great example of a few basic ingredients that complement one another beautifully, resulting in a flavourful side dish. Mushrooms have a lovely nutty taste when pan-fried and even more so with brown or portabellini mushrooms. Remember to make the pan warm enough so that the mushrooms continue to fry and don’t just push out their moisture. If this happens, the mushrooms will simmer in the liquid and not pan-fry anymore. Frying them in smaller batches is a good solution to maintain the heat of the pan throughout the frying process. Spring is a great time to enjoy the sunnier weather and all the fresh produce this season has to offer.

Order a signed copy of Heleen’s recipe book, Make five to spoil someone (or yourself) with. The easy recipes will inspire you to use a variety of everyday ingredients in five mouth-watering and interesting ways. Included are many practical tips on how to cook delicious, wholesome food for you and your family. To order, or for more information on any of her books: visit www.heleenmeyer.co.za, email her on: heleen@heleenmeyer.co.za, or follow her on Instagram: @heleenmeyerfood.

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