http://www.themonth.co.za/archive/february_09 by The Month

Do we have a strategic plan for the Valley?

An urban planning crisis in the making

We speak to Alan Saffrey, international tourism consultant - PAGE 25

Are developers benefiting at the expense of residents? - PAGE 4

THE

FRANSCHHOEK

MONTH

February 2009

A business-to-market hub in print and web media

Alex van Heerden dies at 34

info@theMONTH.co.za www.theMONTH.co.za PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

By The Staff Reporter

Alex, left, “will be sadly missed” Jazz musicians and public figures paid tribute to the late Alex van Heerden, 34, a champion of Cape vernacular music and a renowned musician on local and international stages, at Solms-Delta wine farm on Saturday 17th January. Jazz icons lamented the death of Van Heerden, who was killed in a road accident on the N1 in Cape Town, as an “immense loss of a shining star”. A trumpeter, vocalist, accordionist, ethnic musician and producer, he had been playing professionally since 1992, performing with musicians including Robbie Jansen, Mac McKenzie and Hilton Schilder and had released several albums. Since 2007 he was employed by Solms-Delta to uncover, preserve and interpret the musical heritage of the region in a groundbreaking research project.

FEBRUARY 2009

Van Heerden’s passion for local music had gained him a devoted following in the Boland. On most weekends, he could be found playing traditional songs that farm workers had brought from the Karoo, Namaqualand and Cape Town, on the stoep of one of the members of his newly formed Delta Optel Band. Other workers would hear the music and gather, and a spontaneous party would begin. Van Heerden taught many youngsters in the Winelands to play the trumpet and formed a forty-member brass band at SolmsDelta, as well as the Delta Optel Band. In his work for the farm he interviewed musicians in the region including Freddie Simpson, Sybil Lackay, Quinton Fortuin and the Papier family, as well as others including boeremusiek legend Nico Carstens. The aim was to use this informa-

tion to establish a Cape Rural Music Centre, ‘Music van de Caab’, at Solms-Delta. This was to explore the origins of Cape music and the influences that had been made on it by European folksongs, the Khoekhoe and San musical traditions, and slave cultures from across India, Indonesia and Africa, as well as modern cross-cultural influences. The exhibitions and displays were in the design phase. Van Heerden started playing the trumpet as a teenager in his school marching band in order to avoid compulsory military training, and soon was playing jazz in the townships of Port Elizabeth. Frustrated, he moved to Cape Town and was initiated into the township/Cape jazz traditions while playing in the bands of Robbie Jansen, Winston Mankunku and others. During this time, he embraced the ethnic music of the rural Cape, with whom he could perform vastrap, langarm and church “koortjies” in the arid landscape of the Karoo and Namaqualand. These experiences led to the forming of his band Gramadoelas, who called themselves performers of “psychedelic vastrap”. “Vastrap is the ethnic music of the Afrikaans speakers of Southern Africa, and Gramadoelas breathe new life into this unique creole style,” wrote Van Heerden on his website www.frontierrogue.com. Mark Solms writes: “Alex’s death is a shocking loss to us all. Like us, he was inspired by the work done by David Kramer and others to ensure that the music of the rural Cape endures and assumes its rightful position in the history and culture of South Africa and the world. His amazing ability to connect with young people produced a surprisingly strong (and increasing) interest among the youth in the traditional Cape folk musical styles and he played a pivotal role in reviving, but also in further developing, these precious musical styles. In addition, he was deeply interested in the role played by Gospel musicians in the inner lives of the poor rural communities of the Cape Winelands. From a white, Afrikaans

www.themonth.co.za

background, Alex had a deep and sincere ability to connect with everyone, of all educational and economic levels and cultures, in a natural way, with an amazing, joyous and serene enthusiasm about the future of our country and its people.” The memorial ceremony was attended by about six hundred and fifty people who at once celebrated his life and mourned his passing. Spread out on the lawns of the estate with their families or sitting on chairs in the sun, they painted a picture of ethnic and cultural harmony that would not have been wasted on Alex. Musical items interjected the sombre speeches and served as a constant reminder that Alex lived life as a celebration and encouraged others to do the same. The memorial concluded with an open jam session where a number of well and lesser known musicians gave expression to their grief through music. “He leaves a gaping hole in the lives of us all at Solms-Delta, and he will be sadly missed by us forever.”

PAGE 1

from the editor

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

From the editor

Welcome to the February edition of the Franschhoek Month, packed into twenty-eight pages with a 4-page property pull-out in the middle, and more than your average dose of interesting and humourous articles. Having safely seen in the New Year, and experiencing a quieter than usual season in the valley, we mourn the loss of five prominent valley personalities this month; Barbara Pickering, Di Gage, Tristian Maske, Vivien Jefthas (who remained active in serving the Franschhoek elderly and destitute until shortly before her death) and Alex van Heerden, to whom we pay tribute on the front page – our thoughts are with all their families. And looking forward in 2009, there’s no doubt there are tough times ahead. But, as President Obama said in his inauguration speech, “Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this.. they will be met” and with that attitude we can go a long way. Looking back over a previous copy of the Month, I re-read the comments made by Nigel McNaught from Stony Brook Wines and he was saying how he’d held his production steady for the last five years whilst expanding his marketing overseas. I remarked that prices for his wines can only go in one direction in that scenario, (by limiting supply and increasing demand) and it struck me that the Franschhoek valley is in a similar situation. If, as Siegfried Schaffer says in his comment last month (and Alan Saffrey reports in his article on page 25 this month) that the “vision of the Franschhoek Wine Valley & Tourism Association is to target ‘discerning, high-yield, independent travellers and wine consumers who want outstanding wine and food, heritage, quintessential shopping, events and nature-based experiences’” there has to be some limiting of supply to achieve this. As Alan rightly points out, how will “Franschhoek be able to retain high-value

travellers with further significant growth in guest accommodation and restaurants? Typically greater competition leads to a lowering of prices.”

The question of in which direction the Franschhoek Valley goes from here is discussed in many different places and on many different levels. Where there seems to be consensus is in the understanding of what is unique (and therefore attractive) about Franschhoek: that it is small, quaint, and offers an unparalleled experience of wine, food and beauty. Where there is no consensus is in how we protect that. Reading Jabu Mpaypeli’s column ‘the Voice of the Voiceless’ on page 24 and the way he talks about Langrug today as if it were in the past, I thought I should project forward a couple of scenarios for, say, 2030. In the one, Franschhoek continued to grow and develop unhindered, more and more tourists visited and there was more and more development to accommodate them. More jobs led to a greater influx of cheap labour, keeping incomes low for the workers and compounding the housing crisis. Eventually the very reason for the tourist visit was negated by efforts to accommodate him. In the second scenario, we see that back in 2009-ish, the Franschhoek Conservation Front (a representative body of all interests in the valley) began working with government, sifting through development applications to an agreed formula; a formula that allowed responsible development in the valley that provided sustainable jobs and was environmentally sound. The developers were also part of the Front since, by towing the agreed line, their chances of approval was much higher and approval time much lower. The number of hotel, guesthouse and restaurant licences was limited at or around that time, and gradually the poorer-run establishments were bought out by better-run establishments (who could no longer get licences) and whilst the size of Franschhoek remained the same, the quality of the offering rose, cementing its appeal to ‘discerning, high-yield, independent travellers’. The limited number

of top-class establishments employed the limited number of people living here, was able to pay them well and adhered to the progressive Tourism Charter (see page 23). There was no need for more labour (since there were limited jobs) but the trickle down from the better paid benefited the poorer. For those employed, the money was good and the drive to succeed high. Soon the capacity of the small village was reached but the demand kept growing, attracted once again by the quaintness of the village and the professionalism of the staff. Visitors competed with each other to stay longer and paid for the privilege of doing so, the businesses became more profitable and equity was spread through the ranks…

A public meeting will take on Wednesday 11th February at 6pm in the Town Hall in Franschhoek specifically to discuss how to preserve the Architecture and Heritage of Franschhoek Along similar lines I was given a report this month from which I have highlighted an apparent dichotomy in the way different municipalities enforce parking requirements for developments. The upshot, of course, of developments (especially in the main street of Franschhoek) providing too few parking spaces is two-fold: the overspill of parking into the side streets and the profitability of developments that don’t spend on parking ‘dead space’. The report (on page 4) actually concludes that there is little difference in the methods employed to calculate required parking spaces – it is in the implementation of these rules that things appear to fall apart, so it’s no good blaming

the developers, it’s the law enforcers we need to question. A public meeting will take on Wednesday 11th February at 6pm in the Town Hall in Franschhoek specifically to discuss how to preserve the Architecture and Heritage of Franschhoek (and the surrounding Valley), which will include inter-alia; Franschhoek’s parking crisis, Roof-top and basement parking, inappropriate development, illegal fencing and electrification of walls, wind power usage and the need for Franschhoek residents to employ a full time Town & Urban Planning representative, amongst others. The speakers, so far, are the accomplished author and historian Neil Veitch who will speak on the urgent need to preserve urban heritage; Desmond Raymer, the Developer and co-owner of Willowbridge who will focus on the parking crisis and Susan Huxter, Chair of the Franschhoek Tourism Committee, who will speak on the threats that inappropriate developments pose to Franschhoek’s burgeoning hospitality and tourism industry. The website www.themonth.co.za will carry a questionnaire that residents can fill out on line to create some clarity of views on these matters. Lastly, and on a different tack, some good news from Mark Heistein at Otter’s Bend Lodge on the Dassenberg Road. Whilst taking some tourists around Matopi one morning they came across leopard on the road just above the forestry houses! Great to know they are still around, cheers for that Mark. Enjoy the Feb issue! David

MORE aT: WWW.ThEMONTh.CO.Za/WhaTSON

14 FEB

VALENTINE LUNCHEON, PIQUE-NIQUE OR STARLIgHT FEAsT AT BOsCHENDAL Details: Enjoy a romantic sunset picnic complete with roses and sparkling wine, a romantic luncheon, or formal dinner under the stars on the lawn in front of the Manor House. To book call 021 870 4200

BUILD-IT SPECIALS

ALLFEB

Details: Fabulous specials on Hi Cover PVA R179.00 / 20L; Interior Hollow Core Doors R254.00 and Swartland Stable Doors R699.00. We also stock sand and stone – so this is the month to build it!

14 FEB

Details: Romantic Valentine’s Dinner at Café Bon Bon; Saturday 14th February at 19:00. Booking essential call Marie-Louise 021 876 3936

VALENTINE’s @ CAfÉ BON BON

COL’CACCHIO NOw DELIvERs! WED, Details: Delivery to anywhere in Franschhoek on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 6 and 9pm. FRI, SAT Call 021 876 4222 and speak to Elizabeth, Julnaz or Atwel.

FRIDAYS 14 FEB PAGE 2

JAZZ @ LA BRAssERIE Details: Every Friday until Easter, join ‘The Cape Dutch Connection’ at Franschhoek’s La Brasserie for an evening of Jazz. Book by calling 021 876 3420. R100 per couple gets you a bottle of wine and free jazz from 17:30 to 20:30.

ENjOY VALENTINE’s DAY AT COTAgE FROmAgE Open 08h00 - 17h00. Guests can choose from the à la carte menu with complimentary Champagne and chocolates, or enjoy a special food-and-wine experience at the tasting area. Please speak to Elzanne on 021 874 3991.

www.themonth.co.za

INTERACT wITH Us ONLINE at www.themonth.co.za where your

you

can

leave

comments,

post

pictures and videos or just read more about what’s happening in and around Franschhoek. FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

BACKSBERG VALENTINE’S DAY HARVEST In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, Backsberg have decided to combine the things they love the most – eating decadent food, drinking good wine, harvesting and grape stomping. All worth waking up early for – at least once a year. Spend a romantic morning on the beautiful Backsberg farm. Take your partner and join in with their harvest, have a fantastic Champagne brunch and round it all off with grape stomping and a cellar tour! Saturday, 14 February 8:00 AM till 12:30 PM.

EPICERIE OPENs ITs DOORs Epicerie, a charming new little delicatessen, has opened its doors in the L’Ermitage estate stocking imported cheeses, meats and speciality products for the food lover ’seeking the taste of France’. Freshly baked loaves of rye and seed breads, homemade rusks, croissants and muffins are available to go or enjoy the home-style atmosphere with a cappuccino or a glass of wine on the terrace and soak up the views of the valley. Epicerie also offers the finest South African cheeses, handmade preserved jams and more. Open every day 9 till 5.

VESPAS FOR AUTISM Six young adults recently embarked on an Autism Awareness campaign, riding 125cc Jonway scooters from Pretoria to Cape Town. Their aim was to raise both funds and awareness for Autism in South Africa. We snapped them as they arrived at L’Ermitage Chateau and Villas after their successful trip.

Please contact Luciano on (021) 875 5952, or Email: restaurant@backsberg.co.za

SImPHONIE DE BIjOUX HAs mOvED Sad to leave their former premises at the Huguenot Hotel, Elna invites all her very supportive existing customers as well as potential clients to visit Simphonie at their new, exciting shop situated at 4 Gallio Centre, corner Berg and Huguenot Streets (across from the police station and three shops up from Ebony) for all jewellery requirements. Their phone numbers remain the same - Wiets 078 369 5772, Elna 078 369 5765 or office 021 876 3997 – and they all look forward to seeing you soon!

Letter from New York To The David & Faithful Readers of The Month, This month’s LFL is being written not from London or Franschhoek but from the chilly Northeast of the US. 6am finds me walking through the movie-set like strangeness of New York’s Penn Station in mid-town Manhattan. In the pre-dawn hours Penn Station has a life which immediately makes us observers of the odd behaviours of our fellow humans. Most of those we are drawn to watch are sad, lost souls, cast off from society, existing in their own little worlds in this land below Madison Square Garden, legendary sport and music venue affectionately referred to by New Yorkers as “the Garden”. They babble to themselves like ghosts in a movie where we can see them but we are invisible to their eyes. A well dressed man seemingly going to his office, briefcase in hand, is arguing out loud with himself as if a colleague is walking beside him. There is no one around. The usual homeless men and women wander with bundles in the warm terminal concourse, mumbling and laughing as they shelter against the cold January day unfolding above them at street level. Small cups of coffee give off steam through fingers wrapped firmly around the hot drink. An old high school basketball championship jacket from ten years ago covers a man who appears at first to be in his 50s but on closer look is a broken spirited vagrant of late 20s or early 30s. Police watch observantly in the way only NYC cops do – no menace, just a streetwise confidence. No trouble is expected. This is a sub-culture, another world which is most visible at this hour before most commuters fill the station on their way to work. It is both fascinating and despairing to see as it moves in FEBRUARY 2009

almost slow motion with characters whose lives are aimless and lost playing many of the main parts. In time, my train takes me west, under the Hudson river. As we emerge from the tunnel

on the Jersey side I see the beauty of a winter sunrise over the NY skyline. Having travelled the world I am still in awe of this magnificent sight; however, it is a somewhat melancholy one as the gap where the Twin Towers once stood is unmissable. I remember twenty-five years ago standing in the offices of Lehman Brothers on the 106th floor of one of the towers and being in complete awe that a manmade structure could be so tall. Now neither the towers nor Lehman remain. I continue on towards Philadelphia passing through a landscape from a variety of Bruce Springsteen songs: factories and warehouses, basketball courts and derelict buildings, small wooden houses and utility

poles, water towers and bare trees, vacant lots and broken down brick tenements, nice little towns with neat lawns and farms of Amish farmers. It is where I come from and the place I know best. Fifteen hours later and I’m in another bizarre world, that of JFK Airport’s British Airways lounge awaiting the last flight out of NY, which is, of course, delayed just long enough to kill any chance of getting a kip. This altered state of consciousness is perhaps even stranger than the mid-town train terminal. This is supposed to be a “normal”, even civilized place where frequent travellers or those paying big bucks to fly biz or 1st class get to rest away from the unwashed masses before boarding their flights. Upon returning to the exciting life of bigtime finance I vowed not to go into a lounge again as I always felt it was a place of self-important banker types banging away on their blackberries and talking loudly into mobiles doing their latest deal to maintain their Master of the Universe (MOU) points. It seemed as if I was being held in a state of fake high class suspended animation where inhabitants thought they were important and really the airlines were giving them snacks and free booze to sedate them before a flight and to keep them away from the nice folks flying economy.

or to work when they hit London an hour later than planned. The whole experience here is of being in a trance, surrounded by unattractive strangers, bad wine, stale sandwiches and the idiot who keeps trying to clear his nasal passages with grunts and wheezes. I drift into a nap, waking with a jolt having thought I would be trapped here with these frightening critters for eternity. I say a silent prayer to be transported back to Penn Station to be rescued by the nice lady having a conversation with her left shoe. At least she would give me a cup of coffee. Happy New Year to all. See you in March for the Argus. Dave

Tonight in the BA lounge, a sort of Guantanamo for BA’s high end flyers, I’m listening to some MOU continually clear his throat and snort like a snoring sailor after a big night on leave. Another zombie of the lounge keeps turning on and off her computer, serenading us with that annoying Windows start-up and shut down tune. Elsewhere people stare aimlessly into space awaiting news of our further delay and trying to figure out if they should go home

www.themonth.co.za

PAGE 3

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

When is a parking bay not a parking bay? An urban crisis in the making By The Staff Reporter

Husband and wife team, Des and Heidi Raymer, are Developers and Co-owners of the Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre in Tyger Valley. They moved to Franschhoek in 2004 and have seen the village go through, in their words, a tremendous metamorphosis, both good and bad. At the request of fellow residents, they assessed plans of some recently completed and proposed developments in Franschhoek and also ‘surveyed’ the parking available in Franschhoek’s main roads and the buildings that feed off them. They have compiled a document entitled “FRANSCHHOEK VIEWED THROUGH THE EYE OF A DEVELOPER”

which is available on request from des@willowbridge.co.za. The conclusion left them “shocked at how few parking bays actually exist in Franschhoek”. If the South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) methodology used to calculate required parking from measured floor area were applied to Franschhoek, “the shortage could be close to 1000 parking bays”. Each development should be self sufficient in terms of parking (for the shops or offices it provides), yet “the local authorities seem to have placed a moratorium on forcing developers to provide basement parking.” In the process, they report, “Franschhoek has become a ‘Development Profit Paradise’ with Developers profiting at the expense of the residents.” So let’s take a look at the facts. Franschhoek has fast developed into a major retail destination, notwithstanding the fact that it is already a major international tourist destination. Huguenot Road (when measured from the Louis Botha junction/bend to the Monument) is now host to over 80 open-air shops, cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, banks and offices. There is, in fact, enough critical mass of retail feeding off the main road to consolidate into an open-air shopping centre of approximately 30 000m2 in Leased Area. To put this into perspective, if the Municipality were to treat this strip as an open-air shopping centre that would need to be self sufficient in terms of supply of parking bays, then the ‘Franschhoek Village Lifestyle Centre’ would require approximately 1600 parking bays. By contrast, the “Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre” (which also has approximately 80 open-air shops, cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, and offices) currently has a Leasable Area of 27 000m2 and has 1600 parking bays. In terms of demarcated public parking bays, Huguenot Road yields only 133 bays. Add to this the feeder roads (La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Reservoir and De la Rey) which yield only 61 bays and you get to a total of 194 demarcated public parking bays in public roads. Other properties feeding off the Main Road yield only 136 bays. Residents, tourists, office users, workers, patrons and customers therefore only have access to 330 demarcated PAGE 4

and accessible parking bays. To compound the matter, all other commercial buildings located on Huguenot Road, have no parking facilities. They are totally reliant on Huguenot Road parking bays. If the Municipality were to insist that the ‘Franschhoek Village Lifestyle Centre’ was to adhere to the same conditions imposed on ‘Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre’, Franschhoek would be short of a 1000 parking bays. The Quantum of shops in Franchhoek has certainly doubled in the past four years. Yet, only 75 new parking bays have been added via new Developments such as The Yard, The Ivy, Heritage Square, The Bijoux Building and

Centre du Village which, between them, have added over 40 shops to the Village. To put a 1000 parking bay shortage into perspective, that’s six rugby fields of parking that Franschhoek needs to adequately cater for the future. Unless this is dealt with the residential streets will be used to service the needs commercial buildings. What of the developers? The report suggests nothing kills off a developer’s viability study more quickly than the need to provide adequate

parking bays. As a rule of thumb, developers generally aim to break-even on their capital expenditure on parking bays and make development profit from the commercial rental. Shops pay much higher rentals than offices and are in fact cheaper to create per square metre than are offices. In property speak, “Retail is King”. To put this into perspective using a hypothetical example, assume a small shopping centre of 10 shops each measuring 100m2 provides a Net Rental (after expenses) of R125/ m2. The Net Revenue per month = 10 x 100 x R125 = R125 000/month or R1,5m per annum. Building values are determined via Capitalisation Rates so, assuming 9% is applicable to Franschhoek Developments, the value of the shopping centre would be the annual rental receipts over the Cap rate or R16.6 million. Assuming the all inclusive development costs are R10 000 per square metre and the town allows developers to provide only a few surface parking bays the development cost would be R10 million and the Development Profit, R6.6 million. By SAPOA standards a 1000 square metre development should have 60 basement bays. Based on costs of R120 000 per bay, this would add a further R7.2million in development costs creating a Development Loss of R600 000. In simple terms, if this park-

ing ends up on residential streets, the developer is benefiting at the expense of the resident because he is not being required by council to adhere to SAPOA stipulations.

In addition the report draws attention to the tendency of developers to build mezzanines, toilets and offices in shops to reduce the actual parking requirement even though, in reality, they are fully utilised retail trading areas. The required Parking bays should be calculated by measuring the Gross Leasable Area (GLA) of each shop should according to the Method for Measuring Floor Areas in Build-

ings as stipulated by SAPOA. As an absolute minimum, Retail Usage would require 6 bays per 100m2 of Leased Area and Office Usage 4 bays per 100m2 of Leased Area. On this basis, the new development at the Huguenot Hotel and Standard Bank would require 138 parking bays whereas the proposed parking provision is for 55 basement bays. To find out about the SAPOA method of calculation, why it wasn’t being applied here and why the Tygerberg Municipal Authorities impose much stricter parking requirements on new developments than their neighbouring Stellenbosch Municipal counterparts, we contacted Marx Mupariwa from the Stellenbosch Municpality . He has pledged to give us a full answer in writing which we will print in the next edition of The Month. While the Municipality are busy creating an integrated zoning scheme, as it stands now different zoning schemes apply to different areas. In Franschhoek the rules apply not to GLA but to the Total Building Area (TBA). The Franschhoek Master Plan quotes that: ‘Except on sites which were previously zoned for business, or, on sites which have been designed for shops and offices, and, where provision is made for parking in the design: One Square Metre of Parking space for every two metres of gross area of the building for shops, and, one bay for every parking space for every 20 square metres of office space shall be provided’ So assuming the Gross Leasable Area (GLA) is about half the Total Building Area, in the example above the 1000 sqm GLA centre would be about a 1600 TBA and that would require 800 sqm of parking or about 64 parking spaces which is about the same as the SAPOA requirement. The question, therefore, is why these stipulations are not being enforced at the Municipal level. We’ll wait to hear what Marx has to say about this in the next edition.

FISBA Entrepreneur of the Month By The Staff Reporter will do a short feature on one FISBA entrepreneur. Alfreda Fortuin, from the Alfreda Café, is a local entrepreneur with two convenience stores in Groendal selling “what people need” such as bread, electricity and airtime. She used to be the manager at Gideon’s Pancake House but figured if she could do it for him she could do it for herself. With the dream of opening a coffee shop, she renovated her mother’s house and sold it on for a profit. The coffee shop dream never materialised but with the proceeds from the house she started her first shop and now she’s busy with many different projects including the idea of creating ‘Freedom Square’ on the open plot 412 at the entrance to Groendal. “People must wake up” she says, “We need to get tourists to Groendal”

Alfreda Fortuin – this lady means business

As we reported last month, FISBA (the Franschhoek Informal & Small Business Association) is a recently established resource for small business which is currently helping sixty entrepreneurs with training, advice and securing partnerships. Each month we

She advocates the setting up of a museum so that young people (without hope) can see where they are from and “can see that the coloured people have a rich history” she says. “We need to educate the people, restore communication and learn from each other. By starting a museum our youth will see they have a great history.” Alfreda was also heavily involved with the low cost housing project at Mooiwater and has some original ideas about where to go from here. “To get rid of poverty, people need to get

www.themonth.co.za

busy – it’s no good stealing if I can do it myself. Houses can’t give you money – people need to think about return. Give the people plots and they’ll keep away the squatters because they’ll have ownership. With ownership comes pride, no crime, and tourists” She was one of the founders of Franschhoek FM but suffered the tragic loss of her daughter during the start up. She says the loss gave her strength and is now a motivational speaker who hopes to get a slot on the radio. If there was ever an example of the mantra of ‘if you want something done, give it to a busy person’, Alfreda is it. She is the Secretary for FISBA and is especially passionate about young entrepreneurs. “Plot 412 is the heart of Groendal and ownership needs to be taken by the people of Groendal” she says. She has a Red Shed idea for local craft businesses and has tried to get things going with the Municipality but they’ve been difficult to talk to. “There’s so much we need here; a swimming pool, tennis courts, somewhere for the kids to go after school - that plot could be the centre of town” And during Bastille, she says, the visitors should park there and go into town on farmers tractors and trailers. Listen up Bastille organisers and hear what this lady has to say! Alfreda can be reached on 078 151 6192

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

The Lemon Twist

By Clive Alexander of the Franschhoek Travellers’ Lodge and Group Accommodation A possible alternative to this is record all your favourite TV programs on your VCR, to be watched later. Then the “Fast Forward” button comes in to play, so that you can zap past all the adverts. I have even bought a second VCR so that I can record tomorrow’s watching, while I am watching yesterday’s. Makes my head spin sometimes.

Yes it’s me again, Clive Alexander, Franschhoek’s pain in the rear end. By the way, my trouble and strife took exception to being called a “ball and chain” in last month’s column. It was dog biscuits for a week! I hope the Cockney Rhyming Slang is more acceptable. Some folks also took me to task for maligning the road workers about the pot holes. Dear friends, I was not criticising, I was applauding. It takes skill and dedication to get those pot holes and speedbumps just right. There is a speedbump in Reservoir Street, not more than a stone’s throw from our bedroom window. It is so cunningly designed and masterfully hidden that it catches everybody out. Some big trucks, no doubt being driven by hardworking thieves driving home at 4 am after a hard night of pilfering building material from the big estate on the pass, who speed down the road and connect with the speedbump, waking the whole world up, including all the dogs in the neighbourhood. What fun! Picture this. It is 16h45 on a weekday. A truck driver has just loaded his 10 ton vehicle with some steel pipe at the co-op. He comes roaring down Reservoir, his mind on his first pint (or quart or whatever). He does not see, or remember, the speedbump he has negotiated every day for years. He hits that thing with a hell of a crash. The steel pipe jumps up about half a meter and crashes back down into the load box. Chaos ensues. If there is anything that gets me going all day, it is advertising. Especially TV and radio advertising. I can still take print advertising, because the choice is mine to look at it or not. But TV and radio I have no control over. You are watching a particularly gripping thriller on the box. The computer at Awkward Park decides that now is the time for an Ad Break. Usually in the middle of a scene, even in the middle of a sentence, we have some cretin singing about the magnificence of soap, or cell phones or some such. To make it worse, the volume of the sound is usually about 50 decibels more than the program you are watching. This wakes up the cat and the baby and your wife/husband who is sleeping on the couch next to you. There is a frantic search for the remote, to press the MUTE button. I have worn out a half dozen TV remotes already, with the Mute button being the first to go.

FEBRUARY 2009

Another one is the “shrinking picture scenario”. This is particularly prevalent during sports broadcasts on the box. Ernie Els is lining up a birdie putt that will win the championship. The crowd is hushed, you lean forward watching the putter swing forward to strike the ball just right…….. the screen abruptly diminishes to about half it’s size, Ernie’s ball disappears because it’s now so small you can’t see it, an animated ad comes on around the edge of the screen promising you 500 free SMS’s if only you will sign this ridiculously expensive contract with some chancer in the business world. You scream with frustration, but it’s too late. By the time the screen goes back to normal, Ernie is walking away from the green, handshakes all round, but you didn’t see it.

R45 is far from water, the trees form a pleasant backdrop and wind-break and, very important today, they help to negate our so-called carbon footprint. And yet they are being removed at a rate of knots. They are not being replaced by indigenous trees, as far as I can see anyway. I think somebody is on to a good thing here. I saw a large truck along the R45 recently, loading on the downed trees, or rather the substantial trunks of these trees. (I don’t know what happens to the foliage and smaller branches). There was quite a few cubic meters of wood on that load. Worth quite a bit of money, that. Makes you think, doesn’t it!

Recent Property Sales in Franschhoek The following table shows details of the last three months sales of property in Franschhoek drawn from Deeds Office records. September is the last month we have shown because, typically there is a three month delay in registration. Clearly, there may be other transactions on delayed registration that are still to be logged by the Deeds Office.

How they ever sell any of their products after making so many enemies just boggles my mind. Radio adverts are slightly different. Because you can’t see when the program restarts, a mute button is not much use. The only alternative is to lower the volume, and screw it up again when the fat lady starts singing. The radio advertisers make use of a particularly annoying character I have heard referred to as a “Two voice shouter”. This imbecile believes that the louder he shouts his message, the more effective it will be. They are incapable of speaking in a normal conversational tone. Can you imagine being married to a clot like this, girls? Cousins to the Municipal pot-hole makers are the geniuses who work on the provincial roads. Some bright spark has ordained that all road shoulders between here and Paarl are to be shaved down to the bare earth, thus ensuring that all the soilbinding grass is removed. This grass is replaced with soil, graded and rolled flat. The next rains are guaranteed to wash this stuff away, leaving a suspension breaking drop from the tar to the shoulder. Then it has to be done all over again next year. Must be part of some job-creation scheme.

Clearly, we are not immune to National and Global trends. Year-on-year sales of residential property in Franschhoek (excluding sectional titles) have fallen by approximately 18%; R378million in the year to September this year against R461million last year. The number of transactions has fallen by nearly 40% from 140 last year to 87 currently. This has been offset by the increase in the average price of property sold which has now reached some R4.3million, up by more than 30% year on year. For more information contact Paul Eccles at Engel & Voelkers on 021 876 4485 or e-mail paul.eccles@engelvoelkers.co.za

Then there is the clever dick who has ravaged the oleander bushes growing on the median of the N1, between Paarl and Klapmuts. Granted that such shrubs need pruning now and again, to get rid of dead wood and such, but to devastate the bushes like that is criminal. In places they have not even carted the corpses away, just left them there to rot. Now I know that oleander is a noxious weed, because it is highly toxic, but these okes have forgotten why they are there in the first place. They were planted to shield your eyes from the lights of oncoming traffic after dark. The bushes have been cut so low that the traffic cops have had to find somewhere else to hide with their radar cameras. That’s a bonus! Apropos the above, why are “they” cutting down all the trees in our neck of the woods? I support the idea of alien removal, but this can be taken too far. When the alien trees are near a water source and the trees are taking more than their share of this water, fair enough. But the www.themonth.co.za

PAGE 5

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

It’s an economic slowdown, damn it, not the end of the world! By The Editor

he had to say: “After a tough 2008, 2009 should be a better year and we believe the local stock market is now starting to discount the effect that lower petrol and food raw material prices will have on the domestic consumer’s wallet. This together with more expected rate cuts will put more bucks in the wallet, but it will take a while before this flows through in spending. Sentiment (such as fear of job losses) is key

we believe companies profits, due to extensive cost cutting exercises, will also suffer in the short-term. These should, in part, be offset by lower interest expense as interest rates come down and inflation tumbles. We do take heart from the management of companies who are reacting quickly and swiftly to the tough conditions by de-leveraging their balance sheets in similar ways as individuals, shoring up cash, reducing dividend payouts

The All Share Index

cost cutting will minimise the affect on profits that the apathetic consumer is having on the bottom line but companies can only grow profits for so long by cutting costs at some point the revenue line will need to expand. This will only happen when consumers and Corporate SA are ready to part with their horded cash. So we expect profits will continue to be under pressure for a while longer with companies, at best, showing flat earnings but we are generally not expecting losses. From a stock market perspective, therefore, we believe some serious value is now evident and have no doubt 2009 will be a better year. We also believe that current valuations are selectively offering margins of safety for the investor who has capital to invest (not speculate) and also the patience to see those investments through.” Shawn can be reached on 021.6704982 or 083.4482518

Shawn Stockigt - still battling the markets 2008 was a tough year on world equity markets, most down by between 30% and 60%. Since the Indices reflect the earnings of the companies that make up the economy, are things really that bad? There is more cash now in the US available to buy shares since at any time since 1990 with currently $8.85tn being held in cash and near cash funds - 74% of the market value of their listed companies. In 1991 the US market rallied almost 30% - can the same happen in 2009? We asked resident financial expert Shawn Stockigt, CEO of Achelon Investments for this thoughts and this is what

here and currently fear is driving the minds of consumers who are shy to spend due to the perceived unexpected times ahead. They now prefer to de-leverage their own balance sheets by paying down credit rather than splurge on non-essential goods and services. It is no different for Corporate South African where the spill over effect of the current financial crisis has reduced the visibility across all sectors and

and cutting costs. And although we have noticed company directors buying back shares this activity is slowing down; an indication that management is uncertain of the environment going forward and hence preferring to horde cash with the fear that credit lines might dry up in the future.

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this document, the information is not advice and Achelon and/or its associates do not give any warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the information provided herein and disclaim all liability for any loss or expense, however caused, arising from any reliance upon this information

In the medium-to-long term the benefits of

Share and share alike, Valentines! By Chris von Ulmenstein of Whale Cottage Franschhoek February is the month of love and romance. While Valentine’s Day may fall on the 14th of February, my challenge to Franschhoekers is to be kinder and nicer to their fellow businessmen and businesswomen for the whole month of February. I have noticed how quick restaurants are to say that they are fully booked when one calls for a reservation. I have never, ever, been offered an alternative restaurant to try. Not even French Connection and Haute Cabriere refer to each other, being restaurants in the same family. Wouldn’t the customer, especially one from out of town, who may not have a list of restaurants and their numbers, be grateful for alternatives when confronted with the “fully booked” response? Would it not set Franschhoek apart from the rest of tourism in South Africa, in PAGE 6

being seen to be kind and caring? Perhaps restaurants could partner, and a Reubens could share with Genot, a Grande Provence with Dieu Donne, a Col’Cacchio with Allora, an Essence with Traumerei? Guest houses have generally understood that they have fixed capacity, and that when they are full, they are full, and should pass on the business to another establishment. Using the Accommodation Availability Schedule which I introduced to Franschhoek more than four years ago, and now compiled by the Franschhoek Tourism Bureau daily, guest house owners can refer business to other accommodation establishments when they are full on that day. Whilst business is much tighter now, I will be forever grateful to La Fontaine for selflessly passing its overflow on to our guest house

when we first started up in Franschhoek over four years ago. Even e-mailed bookings can easily be passed on to others, when one is full. We regularly pass on overflow to our fellow colleagues when we are full. Sadly, only two guest houses return the favour. But in the eyes of the guests it is a professional gesture, and it makes the village of Franschhoek appear to be friendly and collegial, even if it is not always that! Perhaps the Tourism Bureau can compile a Restaurant Table Availability Schedule in the busy months like November and February, to offer a similar service. My challenge is to the restaurants, to the wine estates, estate agents, building services suppliers, and to the retail outlets to share and share alike. When you are out of stock or fully booked, send the customer to someone else. While you may not always receive back from the business you referred a customer to, the universe will look after you, and you will receive from another source. The biblical “give and thou shalt receive” works for all our businesses. Happy Valentine’s month to all!

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Private Residence Club Launched in Franschhoek The L’ermitage Private Residence Club is launched on The Fransche Hoek Estate in the five-star L’ermitage Franschhoek Chateau and Villas this month. Thys Geyser, a resident of Franschhoek, specializes in consulting and developing “fractional ownership” projects in South Africa. He pioneered the creation of the fractional ownership’s self regulating body “SAAFI” where he still acts as chairman, and was the MD of Pam

ship” mean? TG: Fractional ownership sounds new but it is merely a stylish structure to collectively own an appreciating asset, managed by professionals for your benefit. You then pay only for the portion you own, but you enjoy it in its entirety. The Month: Sounds like a syndicate or timeshare?

Fractional ownership is the next level up, if you like, with a more formal structured method of co-ownership, but with managed hospitality and support services. The Month: So, in simple terms, it is a method of owning property with other parties, but the management of the property is done by an external management company? TG: Yes, with the owners enjoying the use of the property according to an agreed roster which rotates throughout the year. This concept allows for use, property ownership, no involvement in management and the only costs incurred relate to the owner’s share of the property. The Month: So the difference between timeshare and fractional interests lies in the aspect of ownership. TG: There are fundamental differences in the products, with the core being property ownership and owner involvement. In Fractional Ownership products the owners own the underlying property in perpetuity so have an equity component, whereas the most timeshare products are pure use rights, which are typically for a defined period only. The Month: So what then is a “private residence club”?

L’ermitage Franschhoek Chateau and Villas Golding’s fractional initiative before becoming one of the only independent fractional consultants. The Month spoke to Thys about this project and what it entails. We asked him what exactly does “fractional owner-

demand. The Month: By way of comparison, what are the villas at L’ermitage like? TG: They are 150 square metres in size and comprise two balconies, an undercover patio, lounge with dining room, fully equipped kitchen and two en-suite bedrooms all furnished with the highest quality furniture and creature comforts. The allocation is 21 days or three evenly-spaced weeks per year, which is entirely comparable to Pezula and Zimbali which sell at R890k and R825k respectively. The Month: And the prices for the two bedroom L’ermitage villas? TG: We’re launching them at just R325k per share The Month: So let me get this exactly right. The buyer owns 3/52ths of the property and has rights of use three weeks a year. It’s all managed for him and he’s free to sell at any time? TG: Exactly. Supported by a five-star hotel, located in one of the most prestigious villages in SA and priced at less than 50% of its rivals. When you break it down, however, and look at what you would spend on three weeks a year of ‘straight usage’, you’re up at around R60 000 per year anyway. So over five years you’ll have spent R300 000 and if you choose not to use

TG: In South Africa we have always been exposed to joint ownership through basic property syndications, but predominantly these have had little, or no, managed hospitality services.

��

L’ermitage Franschhoek Chateau and Villas

��

FEBRUARY 2009

��

TG: There are a number of models in the shared vacation equity ownership market, with the syndicate being the least managed and fractional ownership third party managed, but the private residence club is the most advanced, supported and managed by a hospitality or hotel operator.

the weeks you can bank unused time and exchange it for similar use in more than thirty other destinations. Then, of course, you enjoy the capital appreciation of the equity.

The Month: Which means?

TG: We have restricted the project to four villas so there are 68 shares available for sale. This ensures that there is no over supply and that the demand will drive prices up in future.

TG: Typically, in the private residence club a number of units are grouped together into an identifiable cluster that form part of a resort’s package, luxuriously furnished and entirely managed by the host resort. In other words, the hotel manages all aspects of the product; the financial affairs, the housekeeping, hospitality, rental, exchange and bookings. The Month: Who else is doing this in SA, and is it working? TG: There are, so far, only three others. Pezula (in Knysna) launched their private residence club three years ago (and are now planning their second phase), Zimbali (in Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal) launched theirs last year and recently Zorgvliet launched on a game farm in the Northern Province. They have all seen high

www.themonth.co.za

The Month: How many ‘units’ are you launching?

The Month: Lastly, Thys, what does L’ermitage offer? TG: In a nutshell, a five-star Manor House with lounges, a restaurant, chapel, conference facility, recognized spa and treatment centre, a bistro/street café, two pools and a range of onsite activities with views over the Franschhoek valley. The Month: All sounds very exciting Thys. Thanks for your time and good luck with the venture. Thys Geyser can be reached on 083 4524774 or on email at thys@fractions.co.za PAGE 7

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

The Wilfred Moses Column - On Dismissal This month we continue our discussions on dismissal and, in particular, dismissal due to misconduct. Dismissal is the last resort in any disciplinary action. Before dismissal is considered, other forms of corrective action must first be taken into account. The disciplinary process (which will be discussed in another edition) must be fair and transparent. In this article we shall take a look at the necessity of a disciplinary code, the application thereof and the grounds for dismissal.

DISMISSAL DUE TO MISCONDUCT Two months ago we looked at retrenchment and referred to a case that was reported to us. Though the matter was settled (the employer eventually decided to pay our client), we received, during the holiday, a facsimile from a local land surveyor, claiming to represent the employer, stating that we were completely out of line, and that we would not stand a chance to win the case at the CCMA. Not only was I shocked to see a land surveyor claiming to be an expert in labour law, but it was so funny to see his insight into labour law and how he could call the employer his “client” (which means that he obviously must have billed her for his “advice”), that I once again realised “in die land van blindes is een oog koning”. I treat such ignorance and arrogancy with the greatest contempt and didn’t even bother to waste precious time responding to such utter nonsense. So here is my advice to all employers and employees: If you are sick, don’t consult an attorney, or if you need legal advice don’t consult a medical practitioner. You may end up in deeper trouble than you already are, so rather find the professionals in the field and pay a professional fee.

What is a disciplinary code? The disciplinary code is, in simple terms, the rules and regulations of a company regarding the behaviour of employees in the workplace. Any employer has the right to discipline his or her employees, and this fact is recognised by item 3 (1) of schedule 8 of the Code of Good Conduct as contained in the LRA. The rules must be clear and available to employees so that they know what the employer expects from them and what sort of behaviour will not be tolerated. A disciplinary code may be the result of a collective agreement or it may be unilaterally imposed by the employer, or alternatively be part of the employee’s terms and conditions of employment. Employees may know that a particular act or omission will not be tolerated as the employer has always in the past disciplined employees who committed the particular act or omission. It is imperative that the employer be consistent in his/her application of the disciplinary rules of the company. If not there can be serious problems. The following acts or omissions have been held to constitute a breach of the duty to act in good faith: • Theft • Misappropriation of company property • Insubordination • Assaulting the employer, a superior or co-employee • Failure to obey a reasonable and lawful order • Absence without leave • Repeated absence • Drunkenness, if it affects the employee’s work, or is persistent, or results in prejudice • Unfair competition with the employer • Timekeeping or clock-card offences

Substantive and procedural fairness must exist for any dismissive act. The rule must have been known to the employee and been applied consistently in the workplace. An employer must treat employees the same if they have committed the same or similar offences. Furthermore the rule must be valid, not unreasonable or in contradiction of any other law of the country. The validity of a rule depends on a number of factors, for example - the nature of the business or the circumstances in which a business operates. Certainty must be obtained as to whether a rule was indeed broken or not before action is initiated.

• Wilful endangering of the safety of others • Physical assault on the employer, a fellow employee, client or customer and • Wilful damage to company property

Now on the question whether dismissal is an appropriate sanction, this depends entirely on the following factors, namely: • The gravity of the misconduct • The circumstances of the infringement itself • The nature of the employee’s work • The employee’s circumstances and • Whether other employees have been dismissed for the same offence

At the end of the day, the ultimate objective of disciplinary action is not to dismiss, but to correct misconduct and create a spirit of progressive discipline. Never forget that counselling could be a handy tool in disciplinary actions.

Item 3(4) gives a list of examples of serious misconduct that may result in possible dismissal for a first occurrence:

‘Till next month, Wilfred

• Gross dishonesty • Gross insubordination

In conclusion as indicated already, dismissal must be a last resort in the whole process. Other penalties that can be imposed are: • Suspension without pay • Verbal warnings • Written warnings • Demotion • Transfer

Finally, view disciplinary action as a means to develop a better employee to the benefit of business.

For any queries or consultation, please contact Wilfred Moses at 083 3175 335 or email wilmo@webmail.co.za

Snap, Crackle and Pop By Brett Garner

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing three delightful young Karatekas from Groendal. Cousins, Marlon, Florenzo and Randal Louw, train at the Drakenstein Correctional Facility under the watchful eye of Sensei Ross. The boys speak highly of him and it is clear that his role as coach and mentor is profound. Between them the boys have amassed an inordinate number of medals and a handful of trophies. I asked the boys about their exploits

school will put a damper on things. The boys are all appreciative of the way that their school has accommodated their need to put in extra time before big competitions. “Sensei Ross just sends a letter and then the school gives us some extra time” says Florenzo – but I’m sure that it’s their hard work and dedication in all that they do that gives them the edge. The boys train twice a week for a couple of

Marlon, Florenzo and Randal Louw proudly show off their medals

in various national competitions. With honest humility they played down their achievements, describing every punch and kick with gestures and grunts and more than one peal of laughter.

PAGE 8

The boys told me that their friends affectionately refer to them as the “Gevaarlikke Ninjas” (dangerous Ninjas) but were quick to point out that their skills are only ever on display in training or at competitions. “If we’re provoked at school we just walk away” Randal tells me.

hours each time. Transport costs and training fees are always an issue and this is compounded when the boys travel to places as far off as Botswana to compete. The demise of their local club is also difficult for them to understand. Despite the odds that seem stacked against them the boys see only the positives. Marlon concludes our interview with “Karate is a good sport and we want to make our family proud.” I assure him that his family, Sensei Ross and the whole of Franschhoek are proud of what they have achieved.

Marlon practically jumps out of his chair when I ask about the future. “Oh I’d like to be in the movies” he beams, “like Jackie Chan.” Randal wants to be a Sensei and Florenzo just wants to finish school. I anticipate that the mention of

Thank you to Marlene Alexander of Franschhoek Group Accommodation (soon to be the Franschhoek Travellers’ Lodge) for hosting us on the day of the interview and providing snacks and transport.

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

Franschhoek Youth Awards

The Month

By Jenny Prinsloo, CEO of FWVTA An award in pursuit of good citizenship, leadership, and positive role models for the youth of the Franschhoek Wine Valley.

Communities” this is likely to be the case.

The Youth Awards Committee recognised eight candidates who were installed as Youth Ambassadors for our valley. From these eight candidates, an overall winner and two finalists were chosen at a ceremony at the NG Church Hall in Franschhoek on 18th October 2008. Youth Ambassadors were tasked with initiating and facilitating a development project which will run during 2009. The FWVTA expects that the Youth Ambassador Awards ceremony will now become an annual event. Under the guidance and mentorship of Lindy April from the FWVTA office, they have planned to work in three focused areas: Arts and Culture, Sport and Health, and the Environment. Towards the end of last year they held a planning session and are in the process of putting the final touches to their plans before launching their campaigns during the first few weeks of this year.

Vivaldo Johannisen – shy, but a ‘no-nonsense attitude’

All over the world young people are facing challenges, from drug and alcohol abuse, to education, meaningful social interaction and self worth issues. Through the Franschhoek Youth Awards programme, our young people are encouraged to develop their full potential. 2008 marked the second Franschhoek Youth Awards programme. Franschhoek people were given the opportunity once again to nominate the candidates they felt deserved special recognition. The idea of the Youth Awards was inspired by the Youth Day (16th June) celebrations and reinforced by the freedom theme adopted at the Bastille Day Festival in 2007. We felt that the talent and proactive involvement of our youth in community projects needed to be formally acknowledged. This exciting concept was designed to encourage voluntarism amongst the youth of Franschhoek and to give those selected the opportunity to learn and grow as leaders in the community and beyond. The aim of the Youth Award winners is to leave a lasting legacy in Franschhoek, and if they can realise their motto of “Uniting

Nolan Hoffman, Jerome Julies, Vivaldo Johannisen, Justice Mvulo, Msindisi Kwini, Jomine Johannes (Groendal Secondary); Amanda Vinqi (Franschhoek High); and James Connolly (Bridge House) are an inspiring group of young people on a mission to demonstrate that the faith the community has vested in them as youth ambassadors is well placed. This month we would like to introduce one of our Youth Ambassadors, someone well known to the “outdoors” community in Franschhoek, Vivaldo Johannisen. Growing up in Blossom Street, Groendal, Vivaldo started his primary school years at Groendal Primary, then moved to Groendal Seconday School where he took part in many sports including hiking and basket ball. Claiming to be a shy, out-of-the-public eye young man, Vivaldo has shown us his sense of humour, commitment and no nonsense attitude. Employed by MTN in Franschhoek, his leadership qualities stood him in good stead to be nominated as a Youth Ambassador. He is currently in the process of completing gold status for the Presidents Award. In his spare time he is a police reservist. He is involved in the newly developed BMX trail, is training youngsters across the valley as marshals, and he facilitates employment and skills development opportunities for the youth. Vivaldo’s passion is hiking. He is hoping to guide more youngsters on hiking trails in the Franschhoek mountains in future. As a Youth Ambassador, Vivaldo took part in a team workshop led by Tony Frost, well known strategy consultant, author, psychologist and sports commentator. In determining project categories, it was not difficult to figure out that Vivaldo would fit in perfectly under the health/fitness project category. Currently in the beginning phase, Vivaldo and fellow Youth Ambassador member, Nolan Hoffman, are working hard at starting a cycling project in Franschhoek, targeting our schools. Through this initiative they are hoping to create a passion for cycling and environmental awareness, promoting a healthy lifestyle through this alternative means of transport. With any luck, some new cycling talent will be discovered in our valley! Vivaldo’s vision is to do the ground work by coaching thirty young cyclists, encouraging personal growth and independence, and ensure that they get plenty of training.

FEBRUARY 2009

A love for linen By Brett Garner

My wife recently found an unusual replica of the head of the Statue of David at Masquerade in Franschhoek. She sent me in some time later to pay for it. I’m a little intimidated by décor and shops that stock things imported from countries I’d like to visit but where you shouldn’t drink the water. To mask my insecurity I marched confidently to the counter and announced in a sober voice “I’m here for my wife’s bust.”

loosen the corners. The Month: Your linen seems to come from all over the world. MF: We’ve got some old and very scarce linen from France as well as table runners, napkins and tablecloths from Belgium, the Czech Republic, China, India, Ireland and even South Africa. We stock a range of 100% linen or cotton duvet covers, flat sheets, pillowcases and quilts and this winter I’ll be stocking 100% cotton flannel sheets. But my passion is table linen. The Month: Why table linen? MF: For me, one cannot have a delicious meal without a beautiful table; and a beautiful table depends mostly on the tablecloth and the napkins. My own collection includes new, old and antique linen and is often the inspiration for what you see in the shop. It can take me up to six months to place items I source in France on the shelves – I find it so hard to part with them! Without sounding arrogant I have, here, possibly the best selection of napkins in the country.

Marti Foster, the owner of Masquerade, was there to explain her passion for beautiful linen and unusual collector’s items so I asked her where her love for linen came from. MF: My early childhood memories include washdays on the farm. We would play hide and seek between the waving sheets as they dried on the wash lines and later on I’d help the staff fold the sheets on the lawn. Folding always seemed so complicated then. At night I’d smell the starch in the sheets and wiggle my toes to

www.themonth.co.za

The Month: And you have an amazing selection of cloths (Marti can see that I’m battling to find the right term for the beautiful little packets). MF: You mean ‘lappies’? Yes, I’m a ‘lappie’ girl. There are cloths here for crystal, glass, the oven or even the floor. And as we conclude I try to explain my ‘bust’ faux pas hoping to leave a positive impression but can’t, so in an attempt to save face, I buy some ‘lappies’ for the wife. Marti Foster can be reached on 083 234 4082 or masquerade@telkomsa.net PAGE 9

food & wine

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

food & wine

Dieu Donné Salmon Trout Pineapple Vinaigrette: 100ml Olive Oil 20ml White wine Vinegar 30ml Pineapple Juice 20g Fresh Peeled Pineapple 10ml English Mustard 2 Garlic Crushed 5g Fresh Dill Salt & Pepper to taste METHOD Potato Salad: Boil the potato until cooked but still firm. Drain then allow to cool. Peel the potato and dice.

Salmon Trout: Portion salmon, leaving the skin on. Fry in a pan on medium heat with the olive oil. Season with white pepper, fine salt & chopped dill to taste. Serves two. Our thanks for this recipe to chef Jo van Staden

Wine etiquette

Mix the flour, sugar and water in a saucepan and cook until the dressing is thick You don’t have to be a snob to fully appreciseason to taste. ate a bottle of wine. All you need to do is Salmon Trout the Dieu Donné way

INGREDIENTS:

400g Trimmed Fresh Salmon Trout Fillets

Potato Salad 1 Medium-Sized Potato 5g Cake Flour 6g White Sugar 20ml Water 15ml White Wine Vinegar 10 Chopped Chives Salt & Pepper to taste Waldorf Salad 1 Cored Granny Smith Apple 30g Bab y Salad Mix 60ml Buttermilk 6g White Sugar 10ml Lemon Juice 15ml Whipped Cream 50g Diced Celery Stalk 15g Currents 15g Roughly Crushed Walnuts Salt & Pepper to taste

PAGE 10

follow a few simple guidelines;

Add the potatoes and chives and cook unIf you are serving or drinking a white wine, til heated through. Serve Hot. Waldorf Salad: Dice the apples with their skin on (place in cold water with lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown). Whisk together the buttermilk, sugar and lemon juice & fold in the whipped cream. Drain the apples and mix in the salad leaves, currents and celery. Mix everything together until evenly coated. Serve cold. Pineapple vinaigrette: Add all the ingredients except oil together in a blender and mix. Slowly add oil until the dressing is emulsified.

make sure that it has been sufficiently chilled. The optimal temperature to drink most white wines is between nine and twelve degrees Celsius. If you don’t have the foresight to stick a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc in the freezer twenty minutes before you want to drink it, then you should either drink something else, or move to a cooler climate. Don’t assume that you can just plonk a couple of ice blocks in to your wine to reduce the temperature... although this is unfortunately fairly common practice, few things would annoy the person who slaved over concocting their wine more than seeing it diluted and transformed in to a cool drink. Wine is a living thing that will change according to its environment, most notably; temperature. Most winemakers spend months perfecting each of their wines, the least we can do as consumers is drink them at the right temperature. Don’t overfill your glass. To really enjoy a glass of wine, you have to give it enough room to breathe. Fill only one third of your glass so that there is plenty of space to swirl your wine and release the bouquet. There’s nothing worse than sitting down at a restaurant and having your wine glass filled to overflowing, taking a couple of sips and then having your glass “refreshed” again before you can say “Chateau Libertas”... especially if it’s a white wine that

www.themonth.co.za

would be warm by the time you got half way through your glass. It is perfectly acceptable to tell your waiter or waitress that you would like to pour your own wine, that way you can also regulate how much you drink. If you feel like you’ve had enough, you can always ask your waiter or waitress to re-cork the bottle of wine to take home and enjoy the following night. More on wine etiquette next month where I’ll be discussing the importance of good glassware.

FEBRUARY 2009

food & wine The Month

food & wine

Comer con gusto por favor*! - Noble Hill breaks the mould By The Cullinary Correspondant Once part of the historic Bloemendal farm, first granted in 1674 by Governor Simon van der Stel, the Noble Hill Estate today represents both the old and new in the living Cape tradition. Since 2006, the estate has been owned by the Tillery family and headed up by self-styled ‘operational guy’ and front-of-house Kristopher Tillery, a Harvard graduate and former management consultant in the US.

For example the VIOGNIER 2007; “Like a beautiful blonde with an astrophysics PhD, it is a pleasure to behold but isn’t afraid to show its substance“or the CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003 “Our cab shares only one thing in com-

“I like to think we bring a funky, fresh, eclectic and non-traditional approach to everything we do here” says Kris, and this is certainly true of the recently opened à la carte restaurant, COSECHA, that serves latin-inspired breakfast and lunch. Cosecha, the Spanish word for “harvest,” reflects the location of the restaurant next to the area where grapes are sorted and crushed, but it also “expresses our desire to bring the farm-fresh, latin flavours of our family’s south-western American roots to Cape Town” says Kris who stays here on the farm just shy of the knoll that gives the farm it’s name. The vineyard, situated on the northeast slopes of the famous Kanonkop, the southern extremity of the Simonsberg Mountain, has as its neighbours Backsberg and Rupert and Rothschild, so the wines are made from grapes grown in soils with impeccable credentials. The bulk of the farm’s fifty hectares are planted to noble red varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz and Mourvèdre although small quantities of Chardonnay and Viognier are also planted.

mon with a penguin: both are permanently in fashion, ready for the fanciest of dinner parties at a moment’s notice” and the SHIRAZ 2005 “The smart kid that you couldn’t help but love”.

The wines have funky descriptions, typical of the fresh approach Kris has brought the farm.

Eight hundred olive trees also provide abundant olives and olive oil. Authentic picnics

are served in the garden under the trees or on the lawn where you can recline and watch the waterbirds on the dam. The Vineyard or Garden baskets offer meat, cheese and salmon platters with seasonal or pasta salads, hum-

with beans, fried eggs and shredded sharp cheddar, served with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole, it’s a piece of early morning Mexico right here in the valley. Lunch is light and fresh, traditional Mexican street food from the coastal regions: sautéed prawns mixed with chillies, lime, and coriander, wrapped in corn tortillas or the original Caesar Salad from the famous Caesar’s Restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico - A bed of crisp cos lettuce topped with croutons and traditional dressing. For for the cooler days opt for the warm and satisfying chicken Tortilla Soup served with cornbread or the Chicken Fajitas - Strips of chargrilled chicken breast mixed with grilled sweet peppers and sautéed onions. For the real Mexican deal try the Beef Enchiladas - Roasted and shredded beef fillet wrapped in corn tortillas with diced potatoes, enchilada sauce, and onions, served with borracho beans and Spanish rice.

Cosecha – relaxed, funky and original

mus, couscous, pesto dip and spanakopitas (a scrumptious pastry filled with a mixture of spinach and feta cheese). Cosecha serves all day breakfasts in either ‘rise and shine’ regular fashion or ‘Huevos Rancheros’ (literally, ‘ranch eggs’), Mexico’s answer to the farm breakfast. Crisp corn tortillas topped

If you’re salivating at these mouth-watering descriptions waste no time in trying out Cosecha at Noble Hill for a taste of Mexico right here on your doorstep. Noble Hill Wine Estate is situated on Simondium-Klapmuts Rd, just off the R45 between Simondium and Klapmuts. Kris can be reached at the farm on 021 874 3844 or at katillery@noblehill.com * “Please enjoy the meal”

The voice behind the roast potatoes If you walk past the Backsberg restaurant on any given morning while the staff are preparing for the lunchtime rush, you’d think there was

zling, whirring and boiling. These eight people are responsible for the food so well-known and loved which is served at the Backsberg restaurant. Linda Abrahams has been the choir master and Head Chef for over seven years now. We meet at the restaurant, nestled in the breathtaking Backsberg estate gardens, to chat about her time there. “Ja, love songs are my favourite,” she says laughing in mock embarrassment, “the others also like Country and we always singing and dancing together while we cook”. Linda assures me that her fellow kitchen staff are the main reason the restaurant’s food is so good. “I couldn’t do anything without them,” she says, “It’s all about teamwork. And I love the people I work with”. There is a definite festive atmosphere in the Backsberg kitchen, with jokes, cooking tips and friendly advice being passed around in generous helpings.

Singing Head Chef, Linda Abrahams at Backsberg

a choir practice in session. A peek through the large wooden doors would reveal eight singers – their melody punctuated by chopping, sizFEBRUARY 2009

Linda recalls that her first day at Backsberg in October 2001 was very daunting, but her apprehension was soon soothed by what she describes as its “rustig” atmosphere. On the restaurant’s first day, only forty people came in total. Now, she says, the best thing about working there is the crowds, with the Sunday lunches pulling in about 200 people. Linda has been in the wine industry her whole life. She says she’s very comfortable at Backs-

berg because she’s steering the restaurant in a positive direction. “I’ve contributed, and taught them a lot because I always have new ideas for making things better”. Linda has streamlined the way things work there and ten minutes in the kitchen with her reveals her need for order and organisation. She says she won’t have anyone wait too long for their meal, but will only make the food fresh. She’d rather come in early to prepare something than do it the night before – such as on Christmas, when the kitchen staff come in at 5 a.m. to get the food ready by lunch.

www.themonth.co.za

Our chat comes to an end so that Linda can go and prepare lunch. As she stands up I ask tentatively, “So what is the secret behind your roast potatoes?” She studies my face carefully, while she considers if I can be trusted. “One secret,” she says “is to scrape the potatoes with a fork before you roast them – then they go nice and crispy”. Personally, I’d rather leave it up to the professionals. You can get in touch with Backsberg on 021 875 5141 or info@backsberg.co.za

PAGE 11

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

The South African Open - the view from the Media Centre By The Editor Arriving at Pearl Valley Golf Estates for the SA Open with all the tents, stands and queues of people felt a bit like driving into Disneyworld. Clutching my MEDIA PASS I felt kind of important, thinking that I may get either special access to the players or parts of the course that ordinary folk are not allowed, but as I was chaperoned to the front of the queue to the best parking spaces I started to feel very important indeed. The truth is that having a MEDIA PASS is like arriving at Disney World with a free ‘ride-as-many-times-as-you-like’ card with Mickey and Minnie following behind with complimentary food and drink. Now I’m not sure if this is par for the course or whether owners and organisers Leisurecorp were just putting on a fabulous show for the press but ten minutes into the Media Centre and I’m chatting to Ernie Els between mouthfuls of roast lamb, grilled vegetables and potato rosti.

week before had obliterated the field at Sun City but was struggling a bit to recapture his form. I notice that he’s lifting his head a bit on the follow through and flying his elbow and I try to tell him in a nice way, you know, trying to help, but his caddy fixes me with a stare like he wants to wrap that 8-iron round my neck. So I give up on him and follow Rory Sabbatini whose also not having the round of his life either (maybe it’s the hospitality here) and I can see, absolutely clearly, that he needs to choke down the shaft a bit to stop fading the ball left and I try to tell him too, again just TRYING TO HELP and this guy, course official, whatever, wants to klap with his ‘SILENCE’ sign so I duck through the five deep crowds back to

“The course is in unbelievable shape, the facilities are better than anything you see around the world and the food we’re getting here is incredible,” says Ernie who, in real life, is REALLY big. I was sort of hoping he’d talk about the golf but I can’t disagree with his assessment of the facilities. He starts rambling on about the world class field, how it sharpens his focus, that he has good friends in Dubai and always plays well there, etc, but my focus is distracted by the guy in the buttoned up white shirt carrying a tray of what looks like crème brulee and exotic fruit. So I duck out of the ‘interview room’ and head back to the ‘media lounge’ to enjoy some more of Pearl Valley’s ‘media hospitality’.

Having a MEDIA PASS is like arriving at Disney World with a free ‘rideas-many-times-asyou-like’ card with Mickey and Minnie following behind with complimentary food and drink After a couple of desserts and a coffee chaser I tire of watching all these bespectacled hacks furiously typing away at their laptops and start to feel a bit guilty so I head out to the course to see what damage I can do there. I catch up with Henrick Stenson who just the

Thanks Dear Editor, I have for a couple of years been ministering to the underprivileged farm workers’ children in Franschhoek. Mainly to ten pre-teens aged 7 to 15. My purpose is to guide them into their teenage and adult years, to not make the wrong choices, the wrong bad friends, etc. Also, to finish their education and to do well, to follow our Lord Jesus all the days of their lives as He knows the purposes which He has purposed for them; purposes of peace and not of evil, to give them a future and a hope ... not a hopeless end but an endless hope! PAGE 12

The Month’s Editor – he’s the one with the Media pass

the hospitality tent where at least I’m greeted with a drink. It was hot out there anyway, I reason. There’s no way these guys will ever invite me again unless I prove to them I’m a serious journalist that knows how to ask serious questions or, at the very least, put this article on the same page as the Indian Summer ad (see right). So I head to the Sky Box (the fully-catered, air-conditioned serviced bar atop the 18th fairway) in search of Leisurecorp’s Chief Executive of Golf, David Spencer, and pull out some hard-hitting journalist-type questions and just about (and only just) manage to avoid the temptation of another cocktail from the young and by now even prettier ‘service assistant’. I ask him, “Was the ‘free entry’ idea to give greater awareness of golf to the masses and, if so, do you think it was a successful strategy?” He clocks me with that ‘is he serious?’ look but pays respect where it’s due and answers; “We believe at Leisurecorp that we have a commitment to golf and a responsibility to bring greater awareness I was led by our Lord Jesus to take my Happy Valley Kids on an outing to the Waterfront, mainly to the Two Oceans Aquarium and then to go for a meal afterwards. I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to FRANCO who offered to pay for our transport and for the entrance fee at the Two Oceans Aquarium; and thank you, Ron Whytock for your heart in this! You have opened your heart to these children and was touched to give from our Father’s hand and to give joy and happiness to our Father’s little ones and to me. You have indeed touched our lives through this act of generosity. Many thanks to Trevor & Ashley Japhtas (brothers) for providing us with such an amazing (new) taxi and driver! I was quite taken by surprise, not expecting such an unbelievable

of the game to as many people as possible. The intention was to make this year’s South African Open a celebration of golf and to raise the bar for golf tournaments in South Africa by enhancing the experience for spectators and players. With the tournament’s best ever field and one of the most challenging courses in Africa, the tournament deserved to be seen by the widest possible audience, so in the spirit of celebrating golf, and recognising that the tournament was taking place at the start of the festive season, we decided to make admission free every day.” And was he pleased with the attendance? “We could not have asked for a better turnout. A bumper crowd of 42,000 spectators are watching the drama unfold which smashed last year’s attendance by nearly double.” Confidence rising, I push on and test him with whether it is Leisurecorp’s stated intention to make the SA Open the largest sporting event in SA. “The South African Open is the second oldest Open championship in the world and we felt that it deserved to be given its rightful name back. There was never a question of plastering the name of Leisurecorp over a tournament, which I believe is sacred. We also made significant improvements to the course, player facilities, and spectator experience and were able to attract some of the greatest players in the world such as local heroes Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Trevor Immelman, and the likes of overseas stars Justin Rose, Henrik Stenson, Darren Clarke, and Lee Westwood. Our aim is to make the next Championship even better, so that the tournament is regarded as one of the leading sporting events in South Africa.” Aha! Leading, but not the largest. Right on my game I go in for the kill; “Is success in this area (to achieve the stated aim) in order to launch the next phase of Pearl Valley Estates?” Even I’m impressed with that one. “The success of the Championship and the exposure it gives to the thousands of spectators at the course and the millions watching on television cannot be bought. People all around the world will have seen an incredible golf course and beautiful homes set in a stunning part of the world. This can only be a good thing for our future development plans.” My first serious interview and I reckon it was close although I think I shaded it. Underneath I’m feeling quite nervous, yet relieved that I’d not been thrown out of the Sky Box, that the other journos had shown me some respect. I had arrived. And deserved a drink after that. Refreshed, I head back out on the course and watch Darren Clarke on the 18th tee hit a ball dead straight 270 metres and throw his club down upset as all hell and why? Because he didn’t hit it 285m with a slight draw? And I realise – this is a job and a hard one at that. turnout! My gratitude and thanks also goes to Minnie Petersen (YEA) & Deirdre (Franschhoek Steelworks) for your part in our outing. You blessed us by contributing from your hearts which is our Father’s heart. There was a carnival at the Waterfront so the kids had fun rides. We were also able to purchase eats and drinks. We had a fabulous time at the Waterfront and the children were so elated! To add to this ... I phoned various restaurants such as N1 City MacDonalds, N1 City Spur and lastly, Winelands Wimpy on the N1 near Joostenbergvlakte to find the most suitable arrangement, cost, etc. I was absolutely astonished when Patricia Slabbert, the manager of

www.themonth.co.za

The Race to Dubai is fifty-two tournaments in fifteen months. Take out travelling and one day a week practice and you’re practically playing non-stop golf. His caddie snarls at a guy with a camera so maybe it’s not the time to offer some advice. I end up back in the Sky Box to watch Richard Sterne win the event for SA on the first play-off hole, all the hacks are clamouring for a comment, the photographers for a shot and the kids for an autograph, a towel, a ball, anything, and the crowds are applauding excitedly. But I leave them to it and enjoy my Heineken moment, savouring the atmosphere, and thinking.. ‘now how do I write a story about this?’ The SA Open took place at Pearl Valley Golf Estates from 18th to 21st December, 2008, and was heralded as a major success in what has been described as ‘one of the most memorable summers in South African golf history.’

the Winelands Wimpy phoned me to inform me that there will be no charge for the children and that they will each receive a cool drink, a burger and chips and to crown it all, a gift! On our arrival at the Wimpy (a surprise for the children) the service was absolutely fantastic! I was amazed to find that it was not just any burger, cool drink and gift … but the best! Each child got a cheese burger and lots of chips, a cream soda float, and a backpack! Our (taxi) driver, Ashley, and myself both experienced a sense of awe that in these dire economic days there are people who truly care! Thank you all for caring for our community and for fulfilling a social responsibility to the wider community. Ronelle Pinard FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Paarl - Franschhoek Valley

PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATE PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATE - ENTERTAINER’S DELIGHT R6 900 000

Web Ref: 472490

Character home offering spacious 3/4 bedroom ensuite accommodation. Guests enjoy kitchenette with private entrance. Entertain from imported gourmet country kitchen and open plan living area which flows out to patio, pool and charming cottage garden. Work from home with separate studio! EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: HENRIETTE BASSON +27 83 777 3354 +27 21 872 5236

R5 300 000

Web Ref: 507536

This Lodge is situated on the edge of a lake with beautiful views of the Simonsberg Mountains. It is within walking distance to the clubhouse has finishes of a high standard with solid wood internal doors and flooring. A lovely holiday home for a family it offers four bedrooms; three bathrooms; open plan kitchen with scullery; patio with a large wooden deck and a swimming pool. EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: HENRIETTE BASSON +27 83 777 3354, +27 21 872 5236

BRAND NEW HOME CAN THIS BE TRUE? From R850 000 - R3 500 000

Web Ref: 426734

Build your dream home on a variety of stands ranging from R850 000 - R3.5M. (600 - 1 500 m²). Berg River, vineyards and horses. State-of-the-art security.

R3 500 000

Web Ref: 476692

Dreaming of moving to enjoy a living holiday in a luxury “lock up and go” home on a Wine Estate? EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: HENRIETTE BASSON

+27 83 777 3354 +27 21 872 5236

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: HENRIETTE BASSON

+27 83 777 3354 +27 21 872 5236

1914 HISTORICAL JEWEL R8 500 000

Web Ref: 505143

Set amidst decades old oaks lies a masterpiece by renowned architect Wynand Louw. Features like granite combined with sand stone, corners and pillars. Your investment in your corporate head office, work from home or family ambience is yours. EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: SUNA DORFLING

+27 82 576 3745, +27 21 872 5236

Paarl - Franschhoek Office: +27 21 872 5236 Lifestyle@Everitt.co.za www.WinelandsLifestyle.co.za www.ChasEveritt.co.za FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Behind the Mic The Waiter Diaries With Helen Naudé from Franschhoek FM

for days. The horrors of the Gaza war took one’s breath away and the Zimbabwean stories became more unbelievable every day. Is there really no-one who can stop the madness?

The views expressed in this article are solely those of the anonymous writer and in no way reflect the views of ‘The Month’ South America.

He was right. The world turned a rather happy shade of pink. One of the waitresses was looking especially stressed that morning so I offered to give her a massage. She went running to the Manageress screaming about lawyers and sexual harassment. I asked one of the other waiters who had harassed the poor girl. He took two steps away from me and started polishing cutlery (knives in particular).

There were lovely visits to the studio. Clive “Lemon Twist” Alexander was thrilled to be in a real radio studio and made it clear how fed up he is about huge trucks rumbling through Franschhoek village. He supports what others have suggested : re-route trucks via the Robertsvlei road. We haven’t sorted out the funding for the upgrading and tarring of the road.

First order of business is to explain to the editor that in a radio studio we work on mic, not mike. I’ve been loath to do it, one would rather compliment the editor on his work, but I cannot deal with the disbelief in the eyes of my colleagues any longer. You know that narroweyed slack-jawed expression which says “doesn’t she know?” I think he’ll understand. Besides, I like the fact that we have a word all of our own and I don’t want to lose it. No-one else has a mic. We wrapped up the old year at Franschhoek FM without missing a beat. We had Christmas lights, celebrations, awards and dedications, which made keeping the roster going a challenge, but we got the hang of it. Kudos to programming for not over-doing the playing of Christmas carols. Anita did a great job of including music for the festive season in her classical music programme on Wednesday evenings. We are keen to see her selections for Easter! We were filled with anticipation as we watched the New Year march in. After all, better and bigger things were surely in the pipeline. We were totally unprepared to bid farewell to a dear friend and treasured colleague. Alex van Heerden’s death just didn’t fit. He was vital and important and it seemed incongruous that he would not be in the valley anymore. What a tragic farewell. My studio time is as enjoyable as ever. In the news chat between 09.00 and 10.00 in the mornings, we kept track of the German ship, the Polarstern, which was determined to do its fertilization bit in the deep southern ocean in the interest of carbon capture and thus contribute to the saving of the planet. The disagreement between scientists and ecological warriors and eventual interference by the German government kept the story going

FEBRUARY 2009

Doctor Shelley Hellig came to address the sensitive issue of contraception in teens; handled it with grace and gave some good advice. She had interesting information about new products on the market and said that the dangers of an unwanted pregnancy far outweighed the dangers of taking the pill. Our resident psychiatrist, Doctor Sue Levett, came to talk about the relationship between spirituality and psychiatry. The two subjects are not mutually exclusive but can in fact become supportive of each other in therapy. Melvin King slipped away from Bridge House School to talk education on our radio. We focussed on school preparedness and pre-school education. I questioned the wisdom of formal education at an early age when play was surely of importance, but Melvin explained the value of structured play which is geared towards the development of tiny tots. I could listen to Melvin for hours. He’s passionate about education and enthusiastic about the success of private school education for disadvantaged children. He was involved in this remarkable venture before coming to Franschhoek. Kids are lucky to have teachers such as he.

The Vaalies were coming. I woke up with a feeling of fear and loathing that would have put Hunter S Thompson to shame. I now know how the Romans must have felt when the Barbarians started invading from the North. In an act of instinctive self-preservation I phoned in sick. The Boss (cunning as he is) lured me to work with the promise of free beer. Faced with an offer I could not refuse, I hauled my protesting carcass out of bed. They were waiting for me. On arrival I was wrestled to the floor by two barmen (those Malawians are stronger than they look) and had half a bottle of Prozac and a large Red Bull forced down my throat. As I started to complain about this abuse, the Boss said to stop whingeing and that in about half an hour I would be happier than a cocaine addict in

Then the marauding hordes from the North arrived – men in safari suits, women in twin suits and their ghastly progeny in whatever is fashionable in Hillbrow this season. One woman (sitting outside) asked me to do something about the flies. I told her that these were not our flies but belonged to the restaurant next door as out flies had green legs and theirs had black legs. I could distinctly hear the splatsplat-splat as this joke went straight over her head and hit the wall behind her. The rest of the day passed in a blissful haze until the Boss noticed me returning to my natural state (belligerence). Told to go home, I immediately headed to the nearest pub. Since the Prozac hadn’t completely worn off I still had a spring in my step and a smile on my face. The bar lady looked at me suspiciously and asked what was wrong. She then told me that I might be suspected of doing something illegal for being so out of character. So I hooked up with a group of Joburg girls on a hen party – the rest is a bit of a blur. The struggle continues...

Talking of school. Hugo Minnaar, Ds Bossie and Karen Minaar’s talented son, has just returned from Germany where he spent three months as an exchange student. He came to the studio to tell of his adventure in a cold and snow clad Germany. He says he had to re-learn speaking in the Afrikaans idiom after studying and communicating in German for all that time. He’s a delightful laid back grade eleven kid who has fallen in love with the German language. I look forward to the New Year at Franschhoek FM and hope more valley people will come asking for opportunities to broadcast or compile and read news. Cheers! Helen Naudé

www.themonth.co.za

PAGE 17

question of the month The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

THE MONTH’s

The Franschhoek Valley has over two hundred service based establishments in restaurants, guesthouses and wineries. Is the level of service high enough in these establishments and, if not, why not? We ask nine members of the Franschhoek community to give us their thoughts. Carole Day, The Desk A few months ago I would probably have had a different answer, but if we are basing the answer to your question on the Festive season just passed, I absolutely think that Franschhoek service levels have risen exceptionally. Every restaurant The Desk sent clients to, went out of their way to accommodate them – even with late bookings – and the feedback from the clients was that the service was exceptional in all the restaurants and that everyone had a smile on their faces. The jewellers, B&B’s and other service areas made life for The Desk that much easier. The culture of the valley has historically been one where over this period a lot of the service industry fell flat because most of the people working wanted to have their fun too and as such this resulted in levels of service that were unacceptable but it seems that this year a rabbit has been pulled out of the hat and everyone has made an effort. I hope that the service industry has seen the benefits of bending over backwards for clients and that is will continue to gain momentum and get even better – especially in this very difficult economic climate we are all facing.

Janine Espin, The Right Choice No, the level of service is not high enough, I think it is mediocre. This is mainly due to the following: Lack of skills, lack of training, lack of experience (this is both the staff as well as in some instances the owners of the establishment), lack of relationship between staff and management / owners which in turn leads to lack of motivation and low productivity levels by the staff, last, but not least, lack of, or limited, opportunity – most youngsters living in the area can either find jobs as shop assistants, at guest houses (as cleaners or kitchen staff) or as seasonal labour thus limiting their opportunity to grow beyond these sectors. This leads to frustration and a lack of motivation to want to excel – however, the answer would be to create new and additional industries within the Franschhoek region which may not be economically viable at this stage. The greater answer, however, is to invest in our people by means of “proper” education and not the mediocre levels of education which we see coming through our public school system. Gerhard van der Hoven, SA Diamond and Tanzanite I have, in my own experience, always found Franschhoek to be a very efficient and service orientated town with a clear understanding of its target market. Although there may have been the odd occasion where service levels have not been up to standard, my experience and sensing has been that there seemed to be a constant drive towards service excellence from most of the establishments that I have had dealings with, including retail stores. I can honestly say that during the past two years that I have been visiting Franschhoek on a very regular basis, I have always seen changes since my last visit. Either a restaurant that improved their staff uniforms, or a newly painted and decorated establishment, new and improved signage on a building, or an all together new establishment that has just opened it’s doors. In each case it was evident that attention to detail was given in the improvements made and that businesses in town were striving to “up their game”, providing more and better services to visitors. There is a clear awareness that clientele visiting the town are either internationals and, if not, they generally visit from the more affluent South African cities or towns. As a result, the quality of product and service in and around the area has shown constant growth and improvement. It remains essential, however, for all role players to constantly expand their boundaries as far as service delivery is concerned and to ensure that Franschhoek remains a superior destination for both local as well as foreign visitors. Let’s all work together in keeping the standard of service high and keep moving forward in ensuring that Franschhoek becomes more renowned as a world-class destination than it already is!

Judy Sendzul, The SalmonBar This is a difficult one to answer. Simply, the level of service is acceptable but not high enough. We all know that we are expecting service staff to deliver world class service when in most cases they have not been exposed to world class expectations. It is therefore up to the owners/experienced managers of the establishments to set the standards and train the staff - exposing them to what may be expected. On the other hand, we are a small town and should we not keep a balance between service that is good enough delivered by locals who have their own personality and are not cloned into all speaking and acting the same way? Renata Gaggio, Klein Oliphants Hoek Some establishments are really good and the service level is high and professional, while others still need to improve. The ones that need to improve are usually those who tend to forget what hospitality is all about. It’s not only about providing a bed and something to eat or drink, but to make the client feel unique and at home. Some take advantage of the fact that Franschhoek is really popular and they do not make an effort to keep up the standards the tourists expect. Marti Foster, Masquerade A lot of people come to my shop after lunch, and I hear many complaints about poor service, and believe me, no restaurant is spared, so it is really across the board. It seems that the service is better during winter and at its worst when Franschhoek is at its busiest. I used to think that the problem lies with the time of year, when most South Africans want to rather be on holiday and do the holiday thing, than work, which affects the attitude in which the job gets done. Recently I spent 3 nights in the Arniston Hotel. The Hotel was 100% full and the service level was absolutely fantastic. If I had to compare Arniston with Franschhoek, I think the reason for the problem is two-fold. In Franschhoek there is really no consequence to not giving your best, because if things go wrong, you can always get work somewhere else. In Arniston, the Arniston Hotel is the only establishment, so if you are not good enough, you will not have work. Another reason, and this might be on a subconscious level, is the feeling of ownership. I really got the feeling that the workers in Arniston are proud of “their place” and in Franschhoek?.... you decide.

PAGE 18

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Prince Ndamane, Jager Estates Yes, service delivery is good in Franschhoek. If you look at turnover and the level of development in town it is clear that Franschhoek is still a popular destination – that wouldn’t be true if our service was poor. My experience is that Franschhoek people are hospitable and offer good service. Georgia Schoeman, Indian Summer Yes I think Franschhoek establishments generally do offer a good service. This is especially true in comparison to other destinations. We do need to be careful, however, that we keep the service levels up at quiet times. If we let it slip, we usually let it slip just after the busy periods. I have found that some establishments don’t give enough care to the locals who support them and send clients their way. This can be especially frustrating in peak season. Rosemary Beetge, RLM Property Management It is the responsibility of the owners and staff to ensure quality service which is, of course, an ongoing process. Maintaining or improving quality levels is a “never-ending” challenge in itself, even with well trained staff. One should guard against comfort zones, a lack of responsibility and maintaining and ensuring optimal hygiene management. Balance of all facets is of vital importance, and the Western Cape one of the leaders in this field!

Old Year’s at Dieu Donné restaurant A restaurant review

My wife and I had booked in for a set meal with music; our welcome was warm and on arrival we were handed a flute of bubbly with pieces of peach – or was it nectarine? We had arrived at the right time of evening to admire the view and so we wandered down the steps and out on to the patio area to witness the most wonderful of sunsets as night fell on 2008. There can be no better venue in the valley to watch the end of day and the sun disappear behind the mountains. Returning upstairs to our table we were introduced to our waitron who looked after our every need for the rest of the evening. We continued with the very quaffable Bubbly – the Dieu Donné Method Cap Classique, which went very well with all dishes throughout the meal.

Anyway, the Entrée of Chilled Seafood Consommé with a Salmon Riffette was very welcome after the Trio of Venison but did little for the palate when following the Trio of Oysters. Following a palate cleanser of Champagne and Strawberry Sorbet, our mains soon arrived, almost a little too soon but hey, I can’t complain about fast service in Franschhoek! My wife enjoyed the Citrus Duck with Foie Gras and Citrus Confit – the duck cooked to perfection. Likewise, I thoroughly enjoyed the Pancetta Wrapped Deep Sea Fish (butterfish) elevated by Steamed Langoustine with Orange and Roquette Froth.

several of the tables were finished and the people gone before the promised music began so we were left wondering how well it went down, yet, to be fair, we left well before midnight. As we left the restaurant to celebrate the coming New Year with family (and avoided an attempt to sell us a copy of the Winelands of South Africa!) I felt the Chef deserved FULL MARKS for a delightful, delicious and truly satisfying meal. The reviewer paid for the meal and his opinions are his own and don’t necessarily reflect those of The Month.

Rock Crisis thanks you Dear Editor, Thank you for the really good article regarding the Rock Crisis Pregnancy Centre; we thought it a true reflection of our activities and services we extend to the Community. We have since been hearing reports of parcels of clothing and toys being handed in at Dr. Tracey Garner’s surgery and are so excited about the response to the article from the Franschhoek Community! Please know that we are truly grateful for this wonderful donation and that it comes just in time to start the New Year off. By the end of last year our supply of baby clothing and toiletries had run really low, however, we never underestimate the big hearts of our community and we were able to end off the year on a high note! Now we can say the same for the start of this year! How absolutely tremendous! As the names of our donors come in we will be thanking each one personally, however I would like to mention Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Lee of Leeds, U.K. and also David and Angela Hill, who have greatly contributed towards our needs. Thank you for being a blessing to us! We would like to keep the Community updated on our activities and progress throughout the year so you will be hearing more about us! Thank you for a great response to our request, we look forward to the challenge this New Year will bring us. Glenda Sweetnam Rock Crisis Pregnancy Centre

The Kusasa Project calls for volunteers

Fish cooked with the skill that produces neither underdone nor over- By Dave Riordan Our starters soon arrived with the waitron done meat is so rare to find these days helpfully explaining what we had in front of and for this meal the Chef produced The Kusasa Project is recruiting volunteers to yond what they might imagine. We are truly us. The Trio of Oysters was excellent with a a miracle. give as little as one hour a week or a few hours humbled by the dedication and energy of those

fair kick of chilli in the Belaire Shooter, the Oyster Soup superb and the Oyster Spring Roll very tastefully spiced with ginger (my favourite). The Trio of Venison was in fact a made up of only one animal I could call venison – the Seared Oryx on Poached Pears – the remaining duo were in fact Rabbit Terrine and Ostrich Carpaccio – both delicious, but since Venison usually describes meat killed by hunting my mind drifted away to the last time I tried to lassoo an Ostrich. What? Another glass of bubbly, waiter…

The Dessert – Chocolate Grenabalse and Citrus Cheesecake Parfait, again delivered in undue haste, was deliciously rich and a very satisfying way to complete the meal. Although coffee was included on the menu we were asked to pay extra for the Espresso (which I thought was a bit unnecessary) and throughout the meal we listened to piped music and JUST as we were finishing our dessert the DJ arrived to set up his equipment. Unfortunately

once a month to become involved in any of the wide ranging programmes run in and out of local primary schools and high schools. No specific skills are necessary and the options for helping one of the most successful and fun community service organisations in the Valley are many. Working in the village or in schools, volunteers can touch a child’s life and reap a reward of the heart which money cannot buy.

The Kusasa Project is known by many people in the Valley as the hands-on, locally based community organisation working with kids and schools in a variety of ways. Many people have seen its founders and supporters making fools of themselves at Col’ Cacchio Big Music Nights or have followed the activities of the various clubs and other initiatives in which kids from across the Valley - black, coloured and white have been involved, from educational to sporting to community service activities. The basic principles of The Kusasa Project are: kids come first, respect for every person, community service and interaction, education-sport-cultural enrichment as key to the future and that every child deserves to have the opportunity to learn and have fun in a safe environment regardless of race or economic background. What many may not know is that The Kusasa Project can only operate effectively with the selfless contribution of its fantastic volunteers who give of their time (as little as one hour a week!) to make an impact which goes far be-

FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

people of all backgrounds, ages, nationalities and skills who have made The Kusasa Project a rich and diverse contributor to the future of the Valley through direct engagement with children. Volunteers have all remarked on what they have received back from the children, many surprised at the sense of fulfilment that such a small sacrifice of time can provide and pride at being able to touch the life of a child who appreciates far more the gift of self rather than a handout. As Doug has often said “we get far more out of this than the kids”. The range of activities is listed below: Morning reading Library Breakfast clubs Art Club Ballet Chess Club Drama Technology club Running Club NS Study hall/homework sessions for High school kids. Please contact Liesl King on 079 697 2342, Sintu Quza on 072 082 0850, Doug Gurr on 079 110 8954 or email us at info@thekusasaproject.org if you are interested or would like to learn more about how we work. Come on board and you’ll find a joy you never expected! PAGE 19

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Getting results at Bridge House By The Staff Reporter

Bridge House School, in Franschhoek, achieved exceptional matric results from the Class of 2008. The Month speaks to the Head of the school, Anne van Zyl, about the results and her plans for the future. The National Senior Certificate demands that learners be far more analytical in applying subject matter to current global and national issues. We asked Anne: what does this mean and how does it affect our learners?

of 79%. Two candidates achieved nine level 7s (both these candidates did two extra subjects, Maths Paper III and Advanced Programme Mathematics) and one candidate achieved 7 level 7s (straight As in the old system). One student was ranked in the top 40 in the country and one was ranked in the top 80. We are delighted with the overall results as 60% of all subject results were Level 6 or 7 (old A’s and B’s) which shows a depth of teaching and learning. The Month: Which surely must be the key.. AvZ: The teachers here are phenomenal. The impact they have is way out of proportion to their numbers.

licence to try new things and it’s worked – and that is hugely satisfying. The Month: Thank you Anne. Good luck for 2009 and for the future Bridge House is an independent day and boarding school for girls and boys from Grade 00 to Grade 12. Committed to nurturing a ‘can do’ attitude, Bridge House excels in recognising the spirit of individualism within a framework of integrity, humility, wisdom and inspiration. Children are encouraged to develop their unique potential, innovate, lead and make their own mark in an ever-changing world. Website: www.bridgehouse.org.za

The Month: Some credit, though, must go to the Head? AvZ: My job here is to manage the school, to wield a team together and put a system in place where the teachers know what they’re doing so that their confidence filters down to the children. Being a head is about leading and managing a school – there’s no room for vague ideas. The Month: It is widely known, Anne, that 2009 will be your last year at Bridge House. What does the future hold for you? Anne van Zyl ‘Dare to do something new’

AvZ: Simply learning content and reproducing it in an examination context is no longer possible. The government is implementing ‘outcomes based’ education to break away from the previous system, which was perceived to be advantageous to privileged learners. The new system is more practical and skills based with a large values component and makes entry to higher education more accessible.

AvZ: Well, having headed four schools over twenty-one years, I’d like to do something other than running a school. I’d like to help in some disadvantaged communities and will do so if I’m asked. Where I think I can help is in management and leadership and often that’s what’s lacking in the poorer schools. The system can work when properly implemented with well trained teachers. The Month: Have you achieved what you set out to achieve at Bridge House?

The Month: That sounds like a positive move for SA but how do you compare? AvZ: With the new format we cannot compare results with previous years (or even among schools) and it’s a bit of an unknown with no past exam papers to look at. Yet we have been preparing for three years for the new National Curriculum and the children did extremely well. The Month: So the Class of 2008 excelled as predicted? AvZ: Bridge House did incredibly well. We are academically among the top independent schools in the country. Once again, we had a 100% pass rate with every student passing every subject. Of the 47 candidates, 44 achieved a Bachelor’s Degree entry pass which at 94% is well above the Independent schools average Graham Ziervogel – seven level 7’s AvZ: I set out to get round the perception that we are a country school that benchmarks itself against other ‘same category’ schools. There is only one benchmark now - the national and international standard. The profile of the school has been raised through Round Square (a worldwide association of more than 60 member schools on five continents which share a commitment, beyond academic excellence, to personal development, taking responsibility and serving others) and through the International Exchange programme. This year students will go to India, Peru, Thailand, Germany, Canada, the US and New Zealand and all our children benefit from exposure to other cultures by exchange students coming here. The Month: And what can sum up your experience here? AvZ: Dare to do something new. It’s difficult at traditional schools. Here we’ve been given PAGE 20

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

Bits and PCs By Guy de WIT

Become spacially aware through Capoeira By Marc Bernard of Total Revolution Fitness

What the USB?

body express any or all movements learnt, and the game can be played at varying levels.

No, USB is not some obscure computer swearword – though if you still pump water by hand it may as well be. In truth nearly everyone who has a PC will make use of USB devices every day. The Universal Serial Bus was designed to allow a large number of very different devices to plug into a computer without the need to restart it or for complicated configuration of either the software or hardware. Like a cape to a bull, offering computer geeks and nerdy engineers an excuse to invent simple devices with limited function has led to some entertaining but painful expressions of their talent. Consider for example: • The USB powered air-conditioned shirt - it has two fans that circulate air inside the shirt to keep the wearer dry. It can also be powered by four AA batteries in case the USB cable isn’t long enough. Buy it online at http://www.kilian-nakamura.com/blog-english/?p=162 • The USB dart launcher - it can be aimed and launched with the included control software and a mouse. It is supplied with three foam darts and has a range of 5 meters. Buy it from amazon.com for about $25. • The USB interactive aquarium – which according to distributor, Dream Cheeky, allows you to: “Watch the tropical fish swim and play in the Interactive Aquarium and feel your stress fade away.” They go on to say that “the fish can be fed and played with by using the interactive

menu on your computer screen. If your friendly fish are not well and are feeling a bit down, you can help them out by boosting their spirits! Red and blue LED lights set the mood of your fish while creating a life-like atmosphere.” Not all USB devices are silly though – after all who can live without a flash drive or USB mouse and keyboard? I did find something that may yet prove to be of use in the next few months as we wait for Eskom to convince us that paying a huge tariff increase is justifiable – a USB powered rechargeable battery. So now I can wear that shirt to town.

This month I would like to focus some attention on a training discipline which is starting to receive more and more interest in this country. A lot of my training is designed in conjunction with it. This martial art is unique and caters for those of us who are looking for something a bit different, and it’s called Capoeira. Capoeira is a multilayered, multifaceted enigma. It comprises a deep history of rich traditions and an amalgamation of diverse cultures. It can be called a martial art, a dance, music, a language, a revolution and a philosophy. For our sakes it can be termed a martial-art, a game

From a physical conditioning perspective Capoeira is a rigorous full body workout, making use of all four energy systems of the human body including facets of cardiovascular endurance, strength, core conditioning, flexibility as well as speed and power. A sound strength foundation is required in order to ensure that techniques are correctly internalised. As it is a game one is able to control the game to suit the participants, therefore one can play it as martial-art where kicks are used for full contact and takedowns are used to full effect, or one can play a friendly game, more as a dance or for show, leaving the body and mind free for expression. The game by nature increases body control, proprioception and spatial awareness. Making full use of multi joint movements will benefit all athletes in terms of injury risk reduction, as well as increase calorie expenditure and potentially enhance weight loss. The kicking aspect of Capoeira has the added benefit of strengthening the Quadriceps, and importantly making sure the hamstrings are supple. The shoulder joint is strengthened through all planes of movement, especially

Capoeira – discipline, concentration, cunningness, humility, memory and creativity.

(joga) and a dance. The game comprises of two capoeirista (Capoeira practitioners) who meet in a roda (a ring in which the game is played consisting of people singing and clapping hands). The two players enter the roda on equal terms and proceed to confront each other with different dynamic sequences of kicks, takedowns and escape movements. The game can be fast or slow, upright and acrobatic (very similar to break-dance movements, gymnastics, and more elaborate martial arts aerial kicking) or slow and low to the ground (completely unique to the art of Capoeira). The game is controlled to the rhythms from the berimbau (an African influenced one stringed bow instrument and songs are sung by the participants awaiting their turn in the roda). The game of Capoeira is multifaceted and teaches not only control of the body, but control of the mind. Within the roda it is he who can be most cunning that will come out on top. The game teaches discipline and concentration, cunningness, humility, memory and creativity. Although movement patterns can become complex enough freedom is allowed to let the FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

when the game is played low to the ground. One aspect that always gets my attention is the amount of core work and stability that goes into playing a good technical game of Capoeira. From a cross training angle Capoeira is unique and can play a vital role, as this martial art discipline provides both physical and mental stimulation. We offer Capoeira classes in Stellenbosch, and are looking to begin a class in Franschhoek. So please feel free to contact me for more information

Marc Bernard of Total Revolution Fitness can be contacted on 083 500 8979 or via email at marc@totalrevolution.co.za PAGE 21

PAGE 22

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

Understanding the Tourism BEE Charter By The Editor

4. employment equity 5. preferential procurement 6. enterprise development 7. socio-economic development The BEE requirements, as set out in the Tourism Charter, are applicable to all businesses operating within the Tourism sector. We spoke to Janine Espin from The Right Choice business consulting, (a company specializing in strategy development, project facilitation and training and implementation facilitation of innovative Economic Transformation initiatives) and asked her, ‘Is it time to pack for Australia?’ JE: Not at all! But there are ways that, for example, a small Bed and Breakfast operation can become BEE compliant without having to give shares away to the Domestic Executive Assistant! Janine Espin making The Right Choice Much has changed within the Black Economic Empowerment space since 2004 with the move from the original Narrow-Based BEE to the more integrated and holistic Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment strategy – relating to the economic empowerment of all black people including women, workers, youth, people with disabilities and people living in rural areas. The second edition of the Tourism Charter focuses on this new approach and consists of the following seven elements: 1. ownership 2. strategic representation 3. skills development FEBRUARY 2009

The Month: So how would they go about that? JE: Firstly, they could buy some of their supplies from a small or micro enterprise (not necessarily a black owned entity) to access a Preferential Procurement score. By buying supplies from and/or supporting the development of a black owned small or micro enterprise will attract scores for both Enterprise Development and Preferential Procurement. The Month: Two down, five to go. What else? JE: The owners of the B&B could donate their time to mentor a start-up tourism business in the Groendal or Langrug area as this would count towards the Enterprise Development score. By sending staff on training and upskill-

ing courses (such as literacy or computer skills training) not only will productivity and motivation improve, but scores can be achieved against the Skills Development element. However, these training courses should be legitimate and accredited training courses in order to add true value to the upskilling program.

three (ownership, strategic representation and employment equity) are more long-term and in-depth, but they too can be resolved and addressed.

The Month: How could they achieve SocioEconomic Development points?

JE: Well, in September 2008 the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT), together with the newly appointed Tourism Empowerment Council of South Africa (TECSA) held the 2nd Annual Tourism BEE Conference, with the theme being “From awareness to action”. This conference highlighted the need for businesses operating within the Tourism sector to actively start implementing BEE strategies to ensure alignment with the 2009 milestones identified in the Tourism Charter – so, yes, it’s on its way.

JE: By supporting their local community development initiatives such as feeding schemes or needy schools. Points in this category are also on offer for the appointment of black new recruits with no prior work experience. Not only does this bridge the economic divide but it has the ‘feel good’ element of making a difference. The Month: How do businesses go about assessing themselves and building a BEE scorecard? JE: A good starting point for any business is to either conduct a pre-verification self-assessment which can be done through the use of a PC tool (which is obtainable through both the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and TECSA at www.thedti.gov.za or www.tourismbeecharter.co.za ) or to get an independent external evaluation from a B-BBEE consultant or a Verification Agency at www.nabc.org.za or www.abva.co.za The Month: And the three remaining elements? JE: The recommendations that I have given you will allow a company operating within the Tourism sector to obtain pro-rata BEE scores against four of the elements; the remaining

www.themonth.co.za

The Month: And implementation of the Charter?

The Month: And is applicable to everyone? JE: It includes businesses within the valuechain. For example Bed & Breakfasts, Hotels, Guesthouses, Restaurants, Tour Operators, Travel Agents and Consulting and Professional Service companies. As stakeholders in the tourism industry, we need to develop and empower the sector to make it more accessible, more relevant and more beneficial to all South Africans. The Month: Thanks, Janine, for your insightful comments. For more information, training or facilitation on B-BBEE or Organisation Transformation you can contact Janine Espin on 0823360028 or via email on janine@therightchoice.co.za PAGE 23

The Month

Voice of the voiceless By intrepid reporter Jabu Mpayipeli cheapest of the time. She made the painful vow of allowing herself to become a subservant being in her family. She became a servant, a humble one who would be satisfied even from the little crumbs falling from the tables of those she served. One bright morning after years of bearing the yoke of self-hate and exploitation, her sons and daughters, who she raised herself despite her history, rooted in suffering and pain, asked “Mama don’t we have the right to choose?” Like a mighty roaring river bursting its way through cracked rock, Langrug for the first time spoke in a thundering voice, standing straight on her skinny veined feet which gave a picture of a black stone neatly curved with codes of troubled times, and said “My sons and daughters, speak out for yourselves, none but you can bring you change and choices.”

Great Africans are known for their history and stories which are passed from one generation to the next. The culture is meant for the cultivating, educating and preparing of fertile soil for future seeds to grow, according to the principles and morals which serve as pillars of that particular tribe or nation. Stories and experiences change as man dwells through stages of time. Our time has its own experiences. Here is a story - let’s share it together before we tackle the beast awaiting in the kraal. A long, long time ago a beautiful valley of the family of Franschhoek was internationally famed as a food and wine capital of that time, my children. Large numbers of curious tourists to very important people of that time dwelled in this beautiful valley with its beautiful vineyards indeed this was a wealthy family. However, the Franschhoek family, as wealthy as it was, had its own black sheep - rumours also spread the village that she was not only a black sheep but also a stepchild in the family. Her name was Langrug, her dark significant features painted a picture of a beautiful flower which grew among the squatters trampled by feet of passers-by without conscience. Her shabby, unattractive looks caused by her underprivileged background and isolation from her brothers and sisters, drained her confidence, dejected, accepting defeat she covered her nakedness, comforted herself with the transparent blanket made up of inferiority complex material, the

The story has ended but let’s face the living reality which is the real Langrug of black squatter community in Franschhoek. The Month reports the challenges facing any squatter settlement in South Africa are vast, unpleasant and unacceptable. It is a living product of a buried past which carries a legacy of deprivation of some while others enjoy the fruits of the promised land. Yes, South Africa has achieved many things in a very short time. However there is still a lot to do. The grave situation which affects the people on the ground and which has not been given much attention by the South African government whose leaders seem to have become celebrities, advertising service delivery to the impatient clients - “Be loyal and patient and be prepared when your turn comes to ride the gravy train.” What about the ones who can no longer cope with the suffering in waiting, what if they get vex and start to throw stones at the same train of promises? My Question of the Month Whose responsibility is it to make Langrug a better place? Is it the people of Langrug themselves? Is it the Government’s? Is it the more advanced citizen of the valley? Is it any human being who feels it is his or her duty to uplift for the better tomorrow? See you in next Month’s edition when I will be interviewing the Langrug community on these crucial questions. A thought for the month: are you a spectator, are you a dictator, are you a commentator, are you a part-taker or are you a solution maker? Speak! C

CY CMY

��

PAGE 24 Composite

FEBRUARY 2009

Koos Kombuis at at FLF 2009!

The following was recently emailed from a secret destination: Koos Kombuis was born Andre le Roux du Toit on Guy Fawkes Day, 1954, in Devil’s Peak, Cape Town. He wrote his first novels at the age

The book poses the question: How mature are the archetypes we so passionately believe in? How mature is our belief? Do we have any real experience of God, or is our faith based on a sort-of grown-up version of childhood beliefs in the tooth fairy and Santa?

Koos Kombuis of four but could not find a publisher. Dejected, he left nursery school and took a sabbatical before Grade One to devote his energy to art. After his first exhibition he decided to switch to music. Ten CD’s later, he finally realised at the age of 54 that he has no musical talent whatsoever. His mother was right after all!

Seen in this context, it is obvious why God fakes His own suicide at the end of the book. Perhaps we humans left Him no choice...

Is our faith based on a sort-of grown-up version of childhood beliefs? Unfortunately, now it is too late to stop, as he is too famous and has cult status among young Afrikaners. He still writes and paints, however, and has published some books in his spare time, for example, THE COMPLETE SECRET DIARY OF GOD which is both an improvement on, and a sequel to, The Secret Diary of God which appeared 4 years ago at Zebra Press. Whereas the first issue was a satire on the Old Testament (supposedly God’s diary as revealed to Koos), the new edition includes a New Testament, which contains not only diary extracts but also blogs, SMS’s, and assorted writing by God and His friends. It even envisages the end of the world, in which God’s long-lost Son returns briefly, and in which Hugh Hefner plays a major role. Some Christians feel this book is blasphemous. It would, however, be preposterous to suggest for one moment that Koos intended the fictitious character of God to be taken literally. According to him “the joke is not on God Himself, but on the superficial image of Him prevalent in the West, as a kind of Santa-figure with kind face and white beard”.

www.themonth.co.za

INTERACT wITH Us ONLINE at www.themonth.co.za where you can leave your comments, post pictures and videos or just read more about what’s happening in and around Franschhoek. FEBRUARY 2009

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

The future of The Valley – what’s the strategic plan? By The Staff Reporter

Alan Saffery is an international tourism consultant who has worked for more than ten years with national and local government bodies, tourism boards, private sector associations and individual firms in Eastern Europe, Central and North East Asia, Southern Africa and South America on both short and long term consulting assignments. His areas of specialization include strategy development, destination marketing, training and business advisory, policy and planning, and project management. He is currently working in Armenia while his wife and son are living in Franschhoek. Alan and his family are investors in Winelands Experience. In the last issue of ‘The Month’, we asked local residents, business people, and property developers whether there was a danger that the wrong type of development in Franschhoek would kill the goose that lays the golden egg. The views amongst our eleven respondents were clearly mixed - from those believing the goose was already dead, to those suggesting that it was on its last legs and then those who thought it was thriving and fattening nicely. We asked Alan how he explains the mixed views on this important issue?

newcomer to Franschhoek, discussions with various residents and business people have led me to believe that not enough is known within the Franschhoek community on what each of these groups stand for. Obviously, the Heritage Conservation Trust wants to protect the cultural and natural attractions in and around Franschhoek. But to what extent are they willing to compromise their interests in favour of economic development and job creation? The Ratepayers Association - upon what set of guidelines, policies or strategies do they base their planning objections? Are their views objective? Do they take account of the interests of the Wine Valley & Tourism Association or the Heritage Conservation Trust? And who takes account of those that don’t currently have a strong voice within the valley? I may be just out of touch with what is going on in each group, but should I take the responsibility to find out more or should each group engage me and other community members more? Coordinated interest groups can keep the goose alive. Uncoordinated groups can do more damage than having no interest groups at all! And within the ‘interest groups’ you can also include Stellenbosch Municipality too. It is clear that much improvement can be made between various departments within the Municipality and the other community-focused interest groups in and around Franschhoek. The Month: So what do you recommend? AS: A combined strategy, policy or plan (whatever you want to call it) is exactly what is required for Franschhoek. The town needs a vision and direction built upon consensus amongst residents, business people and community groups. The vision must be supported by clear and SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time specific) goals, objectives, targets and a system of monitoring and evaluation to determine whether progress is made toward the vision.

Alan Saffrey – pessimistic unless… AS: I would suggest there are at least three reasons for the lack of consensus. Firstly, to my knowledge, there has been no recent quantitative or qualitative research on this topic. Therefore, subjective opinions are formed through numerous factors, unique to each individual (length of time in the valley, occupation, social and professional network, etc) but in the absence of fact. Secondly, the phrase ‘type of development’ means different things to different people. Some respondents associated the term with the aesthetic appearance of buildings. Others, to the number of buildings, the size of the buildings or building use. A range of opinions can be attributed to the different understanding of the question. Thirdly, the respondents have different views on what Franschhoek is; a tourism destination, an agricultural region, a quaint village or home, a destination for ‘swallows’, a business base, a cultural and historical attraction and a development opportunity. If everyone viewed the goose from the same perspective the views would perhaps be more similar. The Month: So what is your view as a business investor, occasional visitor and tourism industry professional? AS: I’m afraid, from a tourism development perspective, I am rather pessimistic of Franschhoek’s future. The main reasons why were stated by Malcolm Rutherford, in last month’s article; the fact that “interest groups operate on an uncoordinated basis and there is no real combined strategy for each to find their symbiotic space.” Although I am still a relative FEBRUARY 2009

There must be recognition that every villager has a voice, whether they have been in the valley for one year or twenty-five years and whether they have invested R100,000 or R100 million But to firstly gain consensus, detailed research must be undertaken in order to create facts upon which to derive informed (rather than subjective) opinions. As well as a transparent and comprehensive public consultation process that takes into account the view of the local community and its stakeholders, it is also important to gather opinions from the mainstay of the Franschhoek tourism industry; the tourists. Whether the local community believes the goose is alive and well is not particularly relevant if the majority of domestic and foreign tourists particularly repeat tourists, (upon which the goose depends), feel that it is already dead or dying. The Month: Would this be a tourism strategy or a more general plan for Franschhoek? AS: The stated focus for the document is not particularly important. You cannot create a tourism strategy for Franschhoek without taking account other sectors of the local economy (viniculture, agriculture, light industry, retail, etc) or the factors upon which the tourism in-

dustry depends (the natural and cultural heritage, workforce, infrastructure, etc). Similarly, a general strategy for Franschhoek would be worthless if it did not take account of the tourism and hospitality sector.

Should we actually restrict further development (in terms of size, location, type or architecture) to ensure that Franschhoek retains its appeal for ‘discerning’ travellers? What is important is that, like the Stellenbosch Municipality Development Plan adopted in July last year, it is integrated. It must not be developed as a standalone document. As well as the local community, it must take account of and complement existing planning and development documents. Just as laws are rarely passed (or at least should not be passed) without recognizing and adapting other relevant legislation, neither should policy be defined and developed in isolation of other policy and strategy documents. Such documents will have been created at a national, provincial and municipal level and may require some detective work to find, but examples include the ‘South African Tourism’ Tourism Growth Strategy for 2008-2010, Sustainable Development Action Plan for the Western Cape, and the Integrated Tourism Development Framework for the Western Cape. Stellenbosch Municipality lists the creation of a Municipality Tourism Development Plan as a current priority in its Integrated Development Plan, so the timing is perhaps right to ensure that the plans for Franschhoek complement those of the larger Municipality territory.

sues relating to the future of the town. Debate must focus on strengths, opportunities and solutions and not on weaknesses, problems and constraints. Secondly, there must be willingness for compromise and consensus building; focusing and building initially on those issues that are less controversial. There is no point being held up at the beginning of the process over one, perhaps small, issue. Thirdly, there should be willingness to move away from subjective opinion and to recognize the importance and need for factual evidence upon which to base decisions. Similarly, there must be recognition that every villager has a voice, whether they have been in the valley for one year or twenty-five years and whether they have invested R100,000 or R100 million. A useful start to the process, and one which will hopefully identify those willing to be engaged in the development of a strategy, would be to continue the monthly debate of a number of important issues. ‘The Month’ is a perfect vehicle to do this. So to start off with, let me throw out some thoughts for debate... Siegfried Schaffer in his comments in the last issue of ‘The Month’ stated that the “vision of the Franschhoek Wine Valley & Tourism Association is to target ‘discerning, high-yield, independent travellers and wine consumers who want outstanding wine and food, heritage, quintessential shopping, events and naturebased experiences’”. Will Franschhoek be able to retain high-value travellers with further significant growth in guest accommodation and restaurants? Typically greater competition leads to a lowering of prices. If prices are lowered, will we be opening the doors to greater numbers of budget travellers that will not want to spend extensively on retail goods, restaurants and other services?

The Month: Who should be responsible for this strategy, how long should it take to develop and how detailed does it need to be? AS: Strategies are typically developed in-house by local, regional and national governments or tendered out to consulting firms. But there is no point in waiting for the Municipality to come up with one. In fact, if the Municipality is involved and consulted, and existing documentation and procedures are acknowledged, there may well be considerable support for a community led initiative. Long term, accurate, well-structured and meaningful strategies cannot be completed overnight. The processes of research, evidence gathering and public consultation, noted above, takes time and should not be rushed. Many local authorities will spend eighteen months or more in developing strategies. And in terms of detail, the length of a strategy is not particularly important if it is clearly laid out and structured so that relevant information can be quickly and easily accessed. It should be detailed enough to be comprehensive and provide necessary direction. I should also note that it doesn’t have to be a static document that once finished should be nicely bound and look good on a shelf. It should be a dynamic document that can easily be updated as and when required. It can certainly be a work in progress that is updated and approved on an annual basis. The Month: What is needed now is to move forward with a strategy, so how can ‘The Month’ help in this regard? AS: Firstly, there is a need for commitment; a willingness amongst the Franschhoek community to engage, discuss and debate various is-

www.themonth.co.za

Marlene Alexander stated that “...all these estates that are springing up are spoiling the ambiance of Franschhoek. It is getting too big. We are not growing grapes anymore, we are growing concrete houses.” Is Franschhoek becoming too big to retain its aesthetic appeal? Has the town/village reached its tourist carrying capacity in peak season? And should we actually restrict further development (in terms of size, location, type or architecture) to ensure that Franschhoek retains its appeal for ‘discerning’ travellers? Alongside this debate, it would also be beneficial if the Wine Valley & Tourism Association could undertake some research amongst our visitors to see what they think of the town and to compare their views with those of our community. The Month: Thank you Alan for your insightful views

PAGE 25

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Franschhoek Literary Festival News February RS: Hell is empty and all the devils are here – SHAKESPEARE We’ve asked more of the writers due in May to answer some questions… ROGER SMITH

ELWYN JENKINS Elwyn has been a teacher, teacher educator, university professor and university administrator and is a past president of both the English Academy of Southern Africa and the South African Institute of Race Relations. He served for 17 years on the country’s official place naming bodies, and has written two books on the subject, Changing Place Names and Falling into Place, which gives an inside account of how places have been named and renamed in South Africa in recent years. He has also written three books on South African English children’s literature: Children of the Sun; South Africa in English-language Children’s Literature, 18141912; and National Character in South African English Children’s Literature. Elwyn has been awarded gold medals and other honours for his contributions to education, culture and society.. Now retired, he is Professor Emeritus of English at the University of South Africa (Unisa).

Roger Smith

Your interests seem quite wide: from place names to children’s literature.

Roger is a South African film and TV producer and director whose credits as a screenwriter are numerous. His work is seen regularly on African television. His first thriller Mixed Blood, due in March, has been snapped up by publishers in the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand and Germany as well as South Africa. He now lives in Cape Town and is currently working on a second thriller, Wake Up Dead, ‘about messed up people in bad situations’ which will be published in 2010.

And your interest in children’s books? EJ: My love of all things South African drew me to local books. As a curriculum planner for English I realised that schools were not making enough use of our very fine local authors, and I was also concerned that these writers deserved to be much better known. I suppose my contribution has been mainly an academic one. I have written on the history of children’s books in South Africa, analysed and discussed books, identified trends, singled out good books and authors. Who do you see as your main audience? EJ: My books on children’s literature are read mainly by academics and research students – many of them from Europe, North America and Australia, where our literature is studied with interest. This year, I’ll be teaching a new Honours course at the University of Pretoria on South African children’s literature in all the country’s languages. I also write articles, speak at conferences, and give talks to interest groups of teachers, librarians and the general public. I love sharing my knowledge with others. My latest book, Falling into Place, is written expressly for the general public, and I have tried to make it entertaining. It is certainly provocative! Sounds like it. Colin Gardner wrote in The Witness, “His book is full of colourful anecdotes, and he often writes with a dry humour,” and he also mentions that you can be “scathing”. You’re obviously not stuck in an ivory tower.

What are your writing habits? RS: When the characters grab me by throat and won’t let go – I write all day, everyday . . As a South African, how did you get your book published in the US? RS: I landed a great agent in New York. After reading Mixed Blood, leading writer’s agent Alice Martell agreed to represent me, and sold it in a month to publishers Henry Holt and Co, who gave me a two-book contract. And your literary influences? RS: Jim Thompson, Elmore Leonard, Patricia Highsmith, Denis Johnson, Cormac McCarthy, Norman Mailer, James Ellroy, Richard Price, Pete Dexter. Where do you get your inspiration? RS: From our home sweet home.

• 1488: • 1797:

Batholomeus Dias discovers Mossel baai First ever Pound note issued by Bank of England

• 1789: George Washington sworn in as First President of USA • 1804: The first ever steam train to run on rails • 1877: Piano piece “chopsticks” is copywrit- ed • 1887 Queen Elizabeth I signs Mary Stuart’s death sentence • 1911: First official flight with airmail takes place in British India • 1922: The first “Readers Digest” appears on the shelves • 1929: The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, Chicago, between rival gangs • 1929: First Academy Awards are announced • 1930: Pluto is discovered • 1938: Nylon’s first commercial use in toothbrush bristles • 1940:

First African American to win an academy award: Hattie McDaniel, for her role as Mammy in “Gone with the wind”

• 1952: Elizabeth II proclaimed Queen of England • 1952: Winston Churchill announces that his nation has an atomic bomb • 1962: 8 of 9 planets align for first time in 400 years

We asked him to give us a brief description of his first book Mixed Blood. RS: An American, hiding out in Cape Town after being blackmailed into a bank heist back home, is building a new life for his pregnant wife and young son, when an incident of random violence sets him on a collision course with street gangs and a rogue cop who loves killing almost as much as he loves Jesus Christ.

in history

• 1966: First soft landing on the moon • 1969: First test flight for Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet • 1971: Roll Royce goes bankrupt Elwyn Jenkins EJ: Both interests stem from my lifelong commitment to language in action – language in society. I was appointed to the National Place Names Committee as a specialist in the English language. At that time, back in the 1980s, most of the work of the Place Names Committee concerned the language aspects of place names. In English, that involved such matters as whether to put apostrophes in names such as Bushmans Kloof. The Afrikaans members were squabbling over whether to write the parts of Afrikaans names such as Pretoriuskop as one word or separately; while locative forms in African languages posed many challenges that have still not been sorted out.

• 1972: Volkswagen Beetle becomes the most successful production model, selling over 15 million vehicles • 1979: • 1990:

Snow falls in the Sahara Dessert, the only recorded time in History After 27 years in prison, Nelson Mandela is freed

That all sounds rather dry! EJ: Yes. Nowadays, place names have become much more politicized, and this has overshadowed the technical matters. I still greatly enjoy exploring the language aspects of our place names – which are much less dry than I have made them sound – but I must say, I have also enjoyed the rough and tumble of name changing – it ties up with my political interests.

What is your favourite quote? PAGE 26

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009

The Month

FEBRUARY 2009

Veldfirefighters prepare for Western Cape fire season The Western Cape faces a major wild fire risk this summer. The December Working on Fire Newsletter reported that the weather is expected to be exceptionally hot and dry and heavier than average winter rain has stimulated plant growth, increasing fuel loads. Working on Fire (WoF) Western Cape manager, Pierre Combrinck, said weather forecasts showed the province was entering a five-year phase of longer, wetter winters with windier, drier summers that means more wild fires. “This season we expect the worst fires in January and February,” he said. Traditionally the province’s fire season is between December 1st and April 30th with the first winter rains bringing respite. SA Weather Service forecaster Siyabonga Mthethwa said rain was expected into summer eventually tapering off in December. “After the rains the weather is going to be hot and dry” he said, reinforcing Combrinck’s concern that the province would then face the danger of runaway wild fires. Gerrit Valentine, the Franschhoek Fire Protection Committee chairperson reported the following in his last newsletter of 2008: “We look back at the past year knowing that our actions and co-operation in fire protection and prevention were successful. Although we had some serious fires, the co-operation between landowners, FFPC Members and the Fire Services were good and our members and their personnel achieved practical knowledge by working closely alongside the fire personnel.

The FFPC is growing and with the effort of getting the Stellenbosch FPA off the ground and registered, the FFPC showed that with co-operation and dedication, goals set can be achieved. Therefore a new target has been set for 2009, and this is to recruit more members and to start with an awareness programme in the Community and at schools. Once again I would like to thank every-one for their support, dedication and willingness to contribute in making the Franschhoek Valley fire safe and preserving our area for the future.” Gerrit can be reached on 079 9710139 or gerrit@lormarins.co.za

The Franschhoek Month PO Box 191, Franschhoek, 7690 Editor: David Foster mobile: 084 827 3986 david@themonth.co.za Advertising: Craig McNaught advertising@themonth.co.za

classifieds

www.themonth.co.za

classifieds

To place an advertisement in The Month, visit www.themonth.co.za/advertising or email advertising@themonth.co.za

Land Rover Freelander For Sale

Logs and chopped wood for those long winter nights or lovely braais. Alien or Bluegum available. Call Tommy on 0710839391

The class average was 35% and these results are a disgrace, and an embarrassment to all Franschhoekers if we know of them, and yet do nothing about them.

Winelands IT - 083 2600 453

If you feel you would like to contribute something meaningful to the kids who need help then please call Winston Fredericks on 0835347144, or Ron Whytock of FRANCO on 0825512089.

Sales Person Wanted

Pinard Computer & Secretarial Services 073 646 1687 or 021 876 4745 FEBRUARY 2009

Could you teach Grade 9s ? Recent results from one of our schools were so poor that one of the teachers is starting an extra-classes program to address this issue.

Firewood For Sale

We need a resposible and experienced sales person to work full time in our fashion store. Excellent references essential, good rate of pay and commission offered. Please phone 0834630392 or 0218762992

MATHS

LIGHTWORKS PHOTOGRAPHY Lightworks Photography offers a wide range of photographic solutions to suit the needs of any business or person. From studio and outdoor photography to retouching and postprocessing - we’ve got it covered.Call: 084 510 1496 or 073 648 7991 info@lightworks.za.net www.lightworks.za.net www.themonth.co.za

Dr. Tracey Garner General Practitioner 1 Kruger St Franschhoek 021 8764622 082 5641797

PAGE 27

The Month

the social page

FEBRUARY 2009

THE SOCIAL PAGE

Clockwise from top-left Boschendal CEO Clive Venning introducing Sir Richard Branson to the founder estates. Sir Richard was said to be “taken by the magnificence of Boschendal and the sensitive manner in which only a further 6% of the entire farm is to be developed” Sihle Simelela, a Grade 8 learner from the Christel House Academy in Cape Town, speaking at the Bridge House Senior Primary Awards Mourners comfort each other at the celebration of Alex van Heerden’s life, held on the lawns of the Solms Delta estate Watched closely by drummer Barry van Zyl, James Stewart plays to packed crowds at La Brasserie

PAGE 28

www.themonth.co.za

FEBRUARY 2009