Pravin Gordhan - Putting a Propagandist Cart before the Horse

Towards the end of 2012, South African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan was disillusioned with ANC corruption and said as much in his 2012 budget speech. But recently the man has tended to want to sweep the embarrassing stuff under the carpet.

Speaking on Monday at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Houghton, Johannesburg, Gordhan virtually accused South Africans of currently lacking the hope that former president Nelson Mandela's generation had:

'There is too much despair … we need to recognise the good work we've done. It's important that South Africans know we are not a dismal country.'

And how, indeed, does Mr Gordhan know that we are not a dismal country, given the extent of government and corporate corruption, crime and rape that continue to ravage this land and - yes - instil despair.

But he would have you don rose-coloured spectacles to overlook the abominations of government to instil false hope and optimism. A clever tactic. Deflect the blame onto those who are despairing and try convince them of a nebulous hope that simply doesn't exist at the moment. The blame becomes theirs for not seeing it in the first place!

This government is adept at lying when it suits them and creating never-never lands out of thin air. The NDP comes to mind - a theory without implementation and any monitored measuring, created to fool the citizenry that there is something of substance in the 'air' that we can all look forward to and which will give us 'hope'.

So much poppycock. Here is more rhetorical drivel about what 'we must do':

'There is hard work to do. There are sacrifices and innovative things we need to do.'

Note the emphasis on 'we', as if the government is simply a benign supervisor of the irresponsible masses who are the reason why South Africa's growth and moral standing in the international community lag behind. A neat deflection of blame by an agenda-driven politician.

Gordhan would have you believe that South Africa's future depends entirely on its citizens - not on a strong, competent, government of integrity and sound leadership, which he cannot highlight because the current regime - his regime - fails miserably in those quarters despite having 'achieved a lot in a short time'. Any 'achievements' he may wish to parade have been neutralised and emaciated by rapacious greed and slovenly leadership.

Gordhan has changed his tack recently and now relies on glib rhetoric to get across a straw-stuffed message.

Regrettably, there are still too many who believe him.

A Lodge for all Seasons

A feisty young female chef, with a gift for hospitality, has taken over an off-the-beaten-track hospitality establishment and turned it into an award-winning lodge.

Not far beyond the entrance to the serene and popular seaside village of St Francis Bay, a signpost indicates the way to Dune Ridge Country House. A short journey on a gravel road, travelling away from the sea, leads to the picturesque and welcoming guest lodge that recently was the recipient of a national award.

Welcome to Dune Ridge

You may be forgiven for thinking you’re in the middle of Africa, surrounded by bush and watching Nyala buck grazing quietly on the lawn, or the lynx-like caracal leisurely strolling past at sunset, but you’re barely a stone’s throw from the sea. And therein lies the lodge’s exquisite appeal and charm. It provides two travel experiences for the price of one: the African bush, with its vivid wildlife, and the seaside tourist luxuries offered by the village of St Francis Bay – a mere 10-minute drive away.

I was greeted by the knowledgeable, enthusiastic and vivacious owner, Sarah Swanepoel, and led into the resplendent lounge and dining area. The magnificent Oregon pine flooring was adorned by antique furniture and Persian carpets and, outside, the fynbos (distinctive African small trees and shrubs) was abundant and the myriad birdlife vibrant and melodious.

Fine dining at Dune Ridge

Once a farmhouse, the graceful building hasn't lost any of its elegant beauty, and large verandas overlook the immaculately kept indigenous garden. I was also told that all the building materials used were recycled items or brought in from surrounding areas. The sturdy stone fireplace in the lounge was built from rocks transported from the nearby Gamtoos River Valley.

It certainly is a relaxing atmosphere, which is palpable from the moment you enter.

The animated, and young (she’s only 31), Sarah Swanepoel makes every effort to please and is the reason for the lodge’s turnaround success. She started out as a chef and has worked throughout South Africa. She was in the employ of the previous owners when they decided to close the business and was asked by the landowners if she would like to take over the lease. She jumped at the opportunity to have her own business and hasn't looked back.

‘I get a lot of corporate business and we do breakfasts, adult and kiddies’ parties and dinner parties. We cater for special themed dinner parties or simply basic dining out for groups of four or more. We’ll suggest menus but will also provide a custom dining experience tailored to suit the diners.

'We've also become a wedding venue and hope to substantially improve that area of our business.

‘We pride ourselves on being an exclusive destination providing all the benefits and comforts of a hospitality establishment, as well as guided coastal walks, frog safaris and resident spa and bush spa services. We’re uniquely placed with unique appeal.’

Plush lounge and fireplace at Dune Ridge

To promote her business and measure herself against the best, Swanepoel entered the national Lilizela tourism award for service excellence and came out on top, claiming first prize.

The awards represent and reward the highest levels of excellence in tourism. The name derives from the Zulu word Lilizela, which means celebrating and praising by ululating when someone has done well.

‘It took a lot of hard work, but I've got a great staff and we pulled together as a team because we wanted to make it happen. We’re so chuffed, not only because it’s a feather in our cap but because it will also serve the area by drawing attention to St Francis Bay and the magnificent tourism experiences we have here.’

That it will, and with the drive and enthusiasm of Sarah Swanepoel in the area, it can only get better.

Serene evening at Dune Ridge

Who'll Move My Chi?

The curious ancient Chinese art of feng shui has gained widespread popularity in western culture and is being acclaimed as a simple and effective means of gaining increased health, wealth and happiness.

Pronounced ‘feng shooee’, and known as ‘kan-yu’ in ancient China – meaning ‘the law of heaven and earth’, this apparently astute old art is the ancient Chinese practice of placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony within yourself and the environment. Well, that’s the idea.

Based on the theory that an invisible energy, called ‘chi’, exists and must flow unobstructed through a household to produce optimum benefits for the immediate environment and occupants, feng shui becomes literally the wise arrangement of furniture, architectural and décor enhancements and the use of colour to produce this effect.

Hiring a qualified practitioner is best, but the experts agree that it’s easy to apply some basic feng shui principles to assist you in getting your act together to make your life a touch easier.

“If you want a simple, but highly effective, start - get rid of your clutter,” says Terry Cooper, a retired Eastern Cape-based feng shui consultant.

“Clutter is the books and magazines left lying about, the untidy mess of useless possessions that accumulate in built-in-cupboards and elsewhere, the ever-expanding handbag, the numerous items that do not have a place or are frequently not in their place.

“Clutter obstructs chi and will cause ill-health, disharmony and bad luck. Throw away, sell or give away all possessions which are useless. If you are ruthless in your efforts to remove clutter you will be amazed at the overnight results!”

Strong words, and according to the ancient art each room in the house can be segmented for optimal effect. The process is relatively simple but does require some commitment. Here’s how to do it.

Divide each room in your house into 9 equal squares. Using the door entrance to the room as your vantage point, the square in the top left corner is the wealth and prosperity area. In this area place all or some of the following: healthy plants with shiny leaves; silk or fresh flowers in purple, red and blue; a water feature; valuable antique, art or coin collections; paintings or posters that depict wealth, such as cars, boats and jewellery.

The left hand column middle square, below the wealth square, is the health and family area. Decorate with wooden ornaments, items in blue and green, floral prints, curtains, wallpaper, family portraits and landscape paintings.

The left hand column bottom square, below health and family, is the knowledge and self-cultivation area.  Books, tapes, study materials; paintings of mountains and quiet places; items in black, blue or green; photos of people you deem wise, and inspirational sayings placed in this area, will generate common sense and personal growth.

Top row middle square, beside and to the right of the wealth square, is the fame and reputation area. This calls for diplomas and prizes; items in red; anything made from animals – leather, feathers, bone, wool; triangular, conical or pyramidal shapes; candles, lamps, sunlight; posters and paintings/photos of animals, sunshine and your favourite celebrities will do the trick.

"The centre square, below fame and reputation and to the right of health and family, requires no placements. It’s a neutral square and represents you, the centre and manipulator of your universe. Stand in this area when contemplating important issues," says Cooper.

Below the middle square, bottom row middle, is the career area. To stimulate and develop your work status, arrange for water features; items in black, navy, blue, maroon, chocolate brown; mirrors, glass, crystal items; diplomas, certificates associated with your career; posters/paintings of streams, oceans and lakes.

The top right hand corner is the area of love and marriage. Keep your relationship fresh and passionate with imagery or artwork representing lovers; two red silk roses in a pretty vase; fresh flowers with red or pink blossoms; a male and female figurine placed side by side or any personal object that has a powerful feeling of romance and happiness.

Below love and marriage is creativity and children. Children’s paintings; stuffed animals and toys; items in white and pastels; metallic objects of brass, steel, silver; circular or oval items should contribute to producing a resourceful and contented child.

Helpful people and travel occupies the bottom right hand corner. Posters/paintings of mentors; special places where you’ve travelled or want to travel; any items in white, grey or black; helpful teachers, benefactors, clients and customers will all be helpful in sending you on significant, enjoyable journeys and making judicious decisions.

Cooper adds, “Use common sense. If all areas in the room can’t be filled, don’t panic. Fill them in your imagination. Only a minimum of one item per area is needed.

“Most important - don’t forget the clutter. Remove it and you have more than half the battle won.”

Cooper happens to be my wife and I’ve witnessed my surroundings undergo rearrangement from time to time and clutter unceremoniously dispensed with, bemoaning the possibility that some precious stuff might have been turfed out in favour of good chi. But despite my protestations, and when all is said and done, I do feel better - and not a little intrigued.

This article first appeared in AbouTime magazine

Bay of Plenty

Once dubbed a 'quaint luxurious sleepy hollow', St Francis Bay has been experiencing a population and economic boom, due in part to its pleasurable attractions and not a little to a Golden Bear that once roamed the area.

Thrusting itself confidently forward for the benefit of unsuspecting mariners, the nineteenth century St Francis lighthouse can be seen from a westerly descent about 100 km from Port Elizabeth. Around the Cape, a tranquil and radiant bay with ample stretches of affluent beach rolls lazily toward a quiet river.

The Portuguese mariners in 1575, who named the Bay after one of the many nautical patron saints, would not have foreseen, from where they stood centuries ago, the resplendent, thatched, black and white mansions or Mediterranean villas that now pervade the area; nor the intricate, man-made, tidal canal system linked to the Kromme River that, in season, plays host to an array of different boats and water machines.

And the well-established commercial and recreational port would not have beckoned their longboats then.

A bay of sporting pleasure

Home to ‘Bruce’s Beauties’, considered one of the world’s best surf breaks, St Francis Bay is described as possessing the whitest, cleanest stretches of beach on the South African coastline. Attracting national and worldwide interest, water sports abound and include surfing, kite boarding, wet bike racing, waterskiing, windsurfing and paddleskiing. Some of the finest surf and rock angling can be found along this stretch and general sporting events are regularly on the calendar.

Trail running, mountain biking, hiking, tennis, squash, bowls and golf complete the package of the Bay’s available sports pleasure and entertainment.

The Kromme and the canals

Navigable to 10 km, the quiet and sedate Kromme River is a playground for sailing enthusiasts and fishermen alike, flowing gently at its mouth into a marvellous network of canals.

Dubbed ‘Little Venice’, and one of the biggest man-made waterways in Africa, this impressive 7 km canal system winds its way peacefully between magnificent white walled thatched houses, each with their own mooring jetty, and is a mere step away to boating, fishing or yachting on the spacious Kromme. Idyllic sunset cruises take visitor or resident alike on an enchanting journey through the fascinating network, distilling a magical and captivating experience.

canal harbour

Port St Francis

In the interests of fishing and tourism, the first privately-owned port in South Africa began construction in 1996 and is today a vibrant and flourishing R250m small harbour for commercial and recreational craft.

Port St Francis provides safe anchorage for the local chokka industry workboats, pleasure vessels and ocean-going yachts. The superbly functional port is surrounded by a developing village of restaurants, shops, estate agents, yacht club, conference centre, private beach, seaside meander trails and residential and self-catering luxury waterfront apartments.

Port St Francis at sunset

The natural gardens of St Francis

A haven for the eco-conscious, the area boasts four nature reserves and falls within The Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest of the earth’s six kingdoms.

The Cape St Francis Nature Reserve, The Seal Bay Nature Reserve, The Seal Point Nature Reserve and The Irma Booysen Flora Reserve reveal magnificent and exclusive plant life, and many hiking trails exist along the coast and not far inland for nature enthusiasts.

Ground, air and marine species abound and the area is a privileged home for the near-extinct African Black Oystercatcher which has a worldwide population of around only 5 000 birds.

Stamp of the Golden Bear

The great Golden Bear once seen roaming the area was the astounding winner of 18 major golf championships and 105 golf tournaments - the inimitable Jack Nicklaus.

Commissioned to transform an undulating links land of exquisite beauty, Nicklaus produced one of the finest golf courses in the world and was quoted as saying,

‘…..this may be the best course I've ever seen’.

Jack Nicklaus

St Francis Links is situated between gentle, rolling hills with views of the sea. The R2-billion rand investment boasts a magnificent, secure residential golfing estate with several hundred units in the process of development.

Attracting worldwide attention, the development has been hailed as world-class and owes much to the Golden Bear’s course signature and the idyllic proximity of St Francis Bay. It is now rated as one of the finest courses in the country and constantly is among the top venues for weddings, receptions and conferences.

St Francis Links

  

The Links has provided an economic impetus for the overall development of the area and the bay’s luxurious charms have provided it with an attractive menu, creating a synergy that just gets better every year.

In spite of retaining its old-world charm and pristine beauty, the developing bay today would astonish the ancient Portuguese seafarers. And its founder, Leighton Hulett, would no longer look out upon the budding fishing village he brought into being over forty years ago.

It has become a vibrant, bustling environment and tourist mecca that by no stretch of the imagination can any longer be described as ‘quaint’.

Bruce Cooper

STRUGGLING TO GET ONSHORE

STRUGGLING TO GET ONSHORE

A review of the novel Offshore by Penelope Fitzgerald

After my first reading (thirty-one years following publication) of Penelope Fitzgerald’s much-lauded 1979 Booker Prize novel, Offshore, I was left wondering what all the fuss was about. The work received wide acclaim, albeit from reviewers, but little academic interest.

It has at its core the relationships between five barge owners, and the families of some of them, moored at Battersea Reach on the Thames. The author would be expected to develop such relationships into an interesting tapestry of personal feeling shaped by events, revealing the characters to their fullest extent and thereby giving the reader an insight into their innermost psychologies. Fitzgerald, however, creates a snapshot, as it were, rather than a complete revelation, thus leaving one feeling the work to be inadequate, wanting and unsatisfying. It could be argued that, in a novel barely two hundred pages long, little opportunity is provided for such development and, on first consideration, there may seem to be a point except for the fact that a novelist, such as Henry James, managed it masterfully. And I use James as a comparison only because several reviewers likened Fitzgerald to Jane Austen – an accolade misplaced and undeserved in the extreme. AS Byatt suggested she was Austen’s ‘nearest heir’ and I am decidedly perplexed (possibly even dumbfounded) why George Eliot might not have been considered suitable for the part. I can only reason there seems to be a desperate proclivity by some reviewers to find in a contemporary writer the genius of some of the great 19th century novelists.

Fitzgerald’s lack of comprehensive characterization weakens the novel immensely and the first half of the book drifts aimlessly to the point of being boringly insubstantial. The characters are presented superficially, and the reader never gets to know them intimately as a result of the author’s inability to allow a full range of reflection or emotion on their part. Consequently the novel cannot develop into a meaningful work and relies on a series of character snapshots to hold it together.

The term ‘snapshot’ is, perhaps, not insignificant as it suggests a style and method not unlike that of cinematography and raises the interesting observation that Fitzgerald’s Offshore is better suited to being developed as a screen play rather than a novel. The sudden and unexpected changes of scene resemble the motion picture, which, it must be said, has never reproduced faithfully, and with telling force, any major literary work because of its reliance on visual perception. Whether or not Fitzgerald was overly influenced by film, I do not know, but the presence of its style and method in Offshore makes it an interesting question.

One cannot escape the fact there is a dull superficiality about the book. The character snapshots (or movie clips if you prefer the idea of motion) presented by Fitzgerald are of mundane, trivial incidents in the lives portrayed - which is not to suggest that a degree of pain and suffering is not present in the representative contextual sampling. But the writer doesn't explore, in a profound way and not even in one or two characters, the range of content in the individual psyches that could reveal personal tragedy. If she had dealt with her subject matter accordingly, Fitzgerald may have evoked a close and percipient response in the reader and provided substance in an otherwise thin narrative. Yet it is almost as if she wants her audience to assume the tragic consequences of her characters’ lives and simply provides a canvas for the reader’s imagination to play on. This is not subtle suggestion, as some of those who rhapsodize about this book may claim, but an inadequacy unable to meticulously examine and reveal the infinitely delicate processes of human thought and emotion. It is, sadly, and one may venture to say, an easy way out.

That said I do not believe Fitzgerald sets out to deceive. She has, rather, simply written a defective novel in an unconvincing style, a style unsuited to the task of aspiring to achieving a major (or even a good) work of fiction. Regrettably, many critics (who should know better) mislead the reading public in describing the work, with extravagant claims, as ‘tight’, ‘compressed’ and ‘...unerring in economic force’. What exactly such specious terms are intended to mean or evoke one can only guess. But it is probable, and I suggest likely, that these critics do not themselves know and use such terms to impress and cloak unfortunate critical inadequacies - inadequacies that will attempt to promote something as a work of genius which, in fact, is second-rate.

I could be proved wrong but I've not seen the work proposed or selected for serious study and surmise that a competent, critical ethos has had the last word on the subject and put the matter to rest.

Bruce Cooper

July 2013

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DAY OF CYCLING AND FUN IN ST FRANCIS

The St Francis Community Police Forum will host the MTN-CPF Cycle Day on 28 September 2013 in Cape St Francis and St Francis Bay. The event will be a day of cycling and fun to raise funds for the sterling work undertaken by our community police forums in the area.

The race day will be known as 'Cycle Against Crime' and will commence from the Cape St Francis Resort at 8:00 am. Number collection and registration will start at 7:00 am

Various events are planned for the day and details are as follows:

8:00 am       Road Race                       15 km - R60    55 km - R100
                                                                
10:00 am     Various kiddies' events                R20

11:00 am     MTB X-Country                18 km - R60    32 km - R100

                                                                
Plenty of action is expected, some of it along the rugged and beautiful terrain which is a hallmark of the area. It's a day for the whole family and prizes will be on offer. 

Further information and entry forms can be obtained from one of the following:

Hardus: 083 348 8264    Esti: 073 825 0835    Eric: 082 394 7363

Come along, join in the fun and contribute in a pro-active way to the community's fight against crime.    
             

NETTING A BIG FISH FOR BIKO

On 23 July 2013, the Steve Biko Foundation, in partnership with the multi-award winning Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking, will host the Eastern Cape premiere of Celebrating the Eastern Cape through the Eyes and Minds of Young Filmmakers. The presentation will feature films produced by Eastern Cape filmmakers and a keynote address by Eastern Cape MEC of Arts and Culture, Ms Xoliswa Tom.

'The content produced by Big Fish offers a fascinating window on South Africa's complexities through the eyes and minds of young filmmakers. The themes tackled vary enormously - from survival to identity, tradition versus modernity, humour and history,' says Big Fish CEO Dr Melanie Chait.

Host institution The Steve Biko Centre is a national legacy project designed to channel interest in the life and work of Bantu Stephen Biko into a driver of social and economic development.

The Centre boasts an auditorium whose presentations include audio-visual material on history, culture, politics, social development and other works from Africa's diverse communities. As noted by the Foundation's director Obenewa Amponsah:

'The Foundation is extremely pleased to host these films at the Centre. This première is just one aspect of a new partnership between SBF and Big Fish to document and make South African stories known to a broader audience.'

Event details:

Date:   23 July 2013

Time:   17:30 for 18:00

SISULU, YENGENI AND RICH IRONY

When defence minister Lindiwe Sisulu was questioned by the DA for appointing convicted fraudster Tony Yengeni to a new defence review committee in 2011, she made this remark which is today tellingly ironical  given that Yengeni has been fingered in an alleged R6 million bribe deal:

"He has the necessary background of how we've come to be where we are."

Indeed.

Quote taken from the Mail and Guardian 14 June 2013

WHY I DON'T DO SHAME

Columnist Beth Cooper Howell

I've tackled this head-on before, but a recent debate on ‘whiteness’ has reminded me again that of all the emotions people are forced to deal with on a daily basis, the most pointless and useless is shame.

Much as I’d like to go deep and create a pithy socio-political theory based on my thoughts, I’d rather throw colourful examples at you in the hopes that, by the end of it, you’ll agree with me. And perhaps, you’ll stop blushing about the boo-boos you, or your family, or your country, or your ancestors have made.

Because that’s what shame does. It paralyses you into non-action and makes everybody else look bigger and better than you.

When I was five years old, I wet my pants at nursery school. I’d been on the planet for a mere 60 months, and yet still knew this was a bad state of affairs. It took me 20 minutes to drum up the courage to approach Miss Nelson about it. Or maybe I wasn’t brave at all – probably. My wee had cooled down and was blooming rashes all over my legs and nether regions.

Either way, I slunk to the bathroom, cringed being cleaned and cowered in the cubicle while one of the classroom assistants washed my little panties. I also was convinced that everybody knew – and that I was a naughty, naughty little girl.

For a few days, I was dumbed into silence and wouldn’t play with anyone. Didn’t even want to go to school; not even with the promise of a doughnut after (in the 70s, moms happily bribed their kids and blow the consequences).

It’s only now, looking back, that I can label my feeling. Shame was a mighty big emotion for such a tiny tot to bear. And yet, she bore it nonetheless – as did every peer in her class, at some point or another, then or later.

In the Rhodes University debate on ‘whiteness’, an academic opined that white South Africans embrace their shame and maintain a humble silence about current affairs, given that they really didn't have much right to comment. That’s what prompted my bristling dig into the past – to find where my hatred of shame began and if I had a leg to stand on.

Which, I believe, I do. Women are particularly vulnerable in the shame arena – we baulk at going public with unshaven legs; we’re branded harlots if we like fast guys; for too long we suffered in silence because somehow, insanely, we felt criminally ashamed for being raped or abused.

Too often, the shame spotlight is female-focused. We ‘asked for it’, or we’re frozen out of a friendship circle and instead of being angry, feel ashamed. We make everything our fault.

That’s not to say that there’s no such thing as a shameful action. Of course there is. Criminals know that; horrible, moody moms who shout at their kids know that; girls who can’t keep secrets know that. But is there really any point in dragging around such an inane emotion, when it can’t possibly undo the wrong and just makes you a miserable bore?

Feel the feeling and move on. If you shouted at them, hug your kids and say sorry; if you benefited from your skin colour, take half of whatever you have and make a difference to someone else’s life; if you nailed a friend and shouldn't have, buy her flowers for a year and never, ever do it again.

Life’s too short to worry about peeing in your pants.

Beth Cooper Howell

From Garden to Grammar - an African Success Story

FROM GARDEN TO GRAMMAR
An African Success Story

There are many tales of talented individuals rising from impoverished roots to become players in sophisticated modern society. But in Africa it’s a celebration. And this is one of them.

Born in the poor, remote African village, Tchoko, in Malawi’s northern region in 1982, Everson Luhanga was named Komani after his uncle.

The family of nine lived off the land and the only means of earning an income was to sell what food they had left after feeding the family.

Everson's mother pounding nuts

Understanding the value of education, as all African parents do, Komani’s parents sent him to the local Kaonekara Primary School.  Despite most of the village children not being able to attend school for various reasons, it was his father’s determined wish that Komani got a good education. And he had a plan in mind.

Everson's father

When he was ready to enter junior school, his father sent him to stay with his married sister in town. On arriving in town he changed his name to Everson because Komani wasn’t easily pronounced in the area’s dialect.

Everson ploughing the fields

Everson was a clever pupil and excelled in all subjects except maths. But he particularly liked reading and writing. Spending hours listening to the radio and reading newspapers eventually convinced him that he wanted to become a journalist. It was the only job that would satisfy him.

After matriculating, Everson enrolled at the Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) to study a journalism diploma. But he was kicked out just three weeks into the first year because of an outstanding fees balance which his parents couldn’t afford to pay.

‘My father, who used to sell his livestock to pay for my secondary schooling, could no longer afford to pay for my tertiary education. The fees were too expensive to be paid by selling a cow.’

Everson was left with no options, and in 2004, six months after being dismissed from the college, he made arguably the biggest decision of his life – to emigrate to South Africa in pursuit of his dream.

The only work Everson could find in the new country was gardening. But Alison Ramsden, his employer in Parkmore, Sandton, was to become a turning point in his career.

‘As a Christian, I know now that God introduced me to a family who treated me like a son.’

Alison and Everson chat about his future

Although fully occupied with his gardening work, Everson communicated with Alison when he drew up shopping lists and sent birthday and Christmas greeting cards. And during his meal break he could be found either writing or reading a book. 

Over the years, Alison noted with mounting interest the exquisite greeting cards and his preoccupation with writing and reading. She supported this dedication by buying him books, pens and numerous notebooks. Eventually she also learnt, to her surprise and delight, of his passion to become a journalist.

To achieve his journalistic aspirations, Alison knew Everson needed further education. She made enquiries and found several short courses at the South African Writers’ College which would suit him. He was elated when she offered to sponsor him and took up the challenge with zest and characteristic determination.

Everson completed the courses and pocketed two distinctions and a merit award. But there was a surprise. Owing to his outstanding performance, the college granted him a bursary to study its Hard News Journalism course.

Everson’s tutor at SAWC was journalist and former editor, Beth Howell, who, according to him, had a marked influence on his career:

‘It turned out that Beth was more than just my tutor. I noticed during the course that she went beyond her brief to mentor and encourage me. She was more like a parent who wanted her child to succeed.

Journalist and teacher Beth Howell

‘Before I completed the course with Beth, I was writing commentary and letters to various publications, including The Star, The Times, YOU Magazine, and the Daily Sun. Seeing my name in print raised my energy levels and I began looking for markets to sell my stories.

‘A local community newspaper published my first article and soon after that I became one of 20 people invited by the Daily Sun on a one-year training course. I was nervous because many of those attending came from recognised media schools. But here again, Beth was behind me. I asked her advice and she unhesitatingly told me to accept the challenge.

‘It was a great challenge but I managed to rise to the occasion. Of the 20 attendees only five survived and I was one of them. I was awarded a certificate of accomplishment in the Media Law Course at the end of 2011.’

Everson in the Daily Sun newsroom

While Beth’s invaluable mentoring and inspiration saw him safely on the path of journalism towards a successful future, he fondly remembers the key and compassionate role played by the other woman who made a positive difference in his life:

‘Besides paying my college fees, Alison was also a great mentor. She helped me to develop a business mind and emphasised that the power of any business lies in networking. She was my first beacon of hope and the turning point of my life in South Africa.’

Alison and Everson - graduation day!

Everson has gone from strength to strength and is now a proud journalist at the Daily Sun. And he’s living the dream:

‘This is my whole life. I don’t want to do anything but read and write.’

Everson still lives with the Ramsdens in Sandton and has become a member of the family. But he’s not getting much gardening done.

In the garden

A man of letters

Victoria and Alison 

VIVA FREEDOM! GREAT STRIDES, GREAT STRIDES

South African President Jacob Zuma says great strides have been made since 1994. And for once he's right. Often I disparage him for speaking untruths, half-truths or just plain rhetoric. But finally, I agree with him.

Property development since 1994 has soared, particularly in the R200 million-plus bracket. One shining example is a homestead in Nkandla that was once a compound but has been refurbished as a palace at the relatively low cost of around R250 million. Resourceful project management has seen the iconic dwelling mushroom in the rural foothills of KwaZulu-Natal and it has set the benchmark for this multimillion rand industry in South Africa. What drove this magnificent piece of architecture is uncertain but economists suggest the largesse of the South African economy might be the reason. Whatever the reason, it's here to stay, and sets a shining example to young entrepreneurs about what might be achieved with a little common sense, craft and financial diligence. It has caused such a stir, that rumours suggest it may even be proclaimed a national monument and possibly the biggest fortress ever built in South Africa. Nostalgically it evokes the glory and grandeur of those good old feudal days and is a fitting tribute to the history of this great country and it's willingness to always help those in need.

The other great stride since 1994 is, of course, corruption. Few would argue that this vigorous and highly competitive industry has come along in leaps and bounds over the last two decades. It is now a multibillion rand industry and one of the fastest growing in South Africa's economic sector. Because of its growing and enormous potential there are moves afoot to include it in the Gross Domestic Product, primarily to clean up its image and boost the South African economy. 

So our beloved country has much to look forward to in the next ten years. An upturn in the economy built on flourishing corruption and a nationwide property boom of palatial magnitude.

Viva freedom!

MEDIA GROUP RAISES CONCERNS OVER SECRECY BILL IN ITS CURRENT FORM

The Southern African Freelancers' Association (SAFREA) today issued a press release raising concerns over the Protection of Information Bill in its present form.

The Bill was passed by majority vote in South Africa's Parliament yesterday and will now be forwarded to President Jacob Zuma to be signed into law.

Safrea drew on a quotation from American writer and activist Noam Chomsky which aptly describes the relationship between free speech and a democracy:

"If we don't believe in freedom of expression for those we despise, we don't believe in it at all."

The full text of the press release appears below.

The Southern African Freelancers' Association stands opposed to the passing of the Secrecy Bill in its current form.

"Although the Secrecy Bill that was passed yesterday is a considerably improved version compared to what was presented last year, it remains a threat to freedom of speech, exposing journalists and whistle-blowers to real and significant risks, including a jail sentence of up to 25 years when reporting on certain matters in the public interest.

"The limited protection the bill offers journalists and whistle-blowers will no doubt result in an unacceptable environment of secrecy, fear and intimidation. This does not bode well for responsible journalism in South Africa, for the livelihood of those pursuing honest careers in what should be free media, or for the South African public," says Safrea chair, Helen Ueckermann.

The Secrecy Bill must be weighed and tested against the South African constitution. Legislation of this nature undermines and erodes the sacrifices endured during the Struggle, and all that it stood for. Passing the bill makes a mockery of the constitutional safeguards on free speech.

"The media's role as watchdog, and its responsibility towards the public to report on classified information exposing corruption or criminal activity, will be severely hampered with the passing of the bill," says Ueckermann.

There can be no true democracy where there is a limitation on freedom of speech. In the words of American linguist, philosopher, historian, political critic, and activist, Noam Chomsky, "If we don't believe in freedom of expression for those we despise, we don't believe in it at all."

LATEST REPORT FROM ST FRANCIS BAY RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION

Below is the latest report from the St Francis Bay Residents' Association.

25 April 2013

Hi  Folks                                                                                                                 

Since the end of January this year a number of interesting things have happened in St Francis Bay.
• Firstly, the Tourism office has been relocated to Viking Bakery and approval has been given by Council to put up new signage directing people to this new office.
• The second significant happening has been the formation of a Business Chamber, which has been set up to address business issues within the Greater St Francis Bay area.  They have already achieved considerable success in discussions with council and other parties and a new committee is being put in place.  The Residents' Association is very supportive of the endeavours of Tourism and the Business Chamber.
• We are, once again, trying to get the residents of Sea Vista to form their own Residents' Association so that we have greater representation when dealing with council. 
• The street sign community project run by the SFB Residents Association is in the final throes of being put together.  This project will manufacture street signs conforming to Council requirements.  These curb-type signs will be manufactured locally creating employment.  We are hoping that businesses will come forward and sponsor these signs.
• It appears that the Parks grass cutting team has stopped their ‘go slow’ and is now back at work, long may this continue. 
• Two of the bad areas on St Francis Drive on the way to the Port have now been permanently repaired and the remaining section adjacent to Tarragona as well as the bend in Tarragona will be repaired shortly by Council.  The replacement of the mains water pipe in Lyme Road North is progressing well and most of the piping has been laid.
• The St Francis Bay Golf Club is in the process of finishing a contoured drainage system taking storm water away from flooding the areas adjacent to St Francis Drive down to the sea.  Council employed an outside contractor to put in a new storm water pipe system under the main road which will significantly help avoiding the damming of water.  This project was required to be completed prior to the winter rains. 
• Recently the new donated fire boat equipped by the Riparian Association was demonstrated to the media and public in the small boat harbour.  The water pressure allowed for five hoses to be attached simultaneously with significant water pressure.  As an aside, many of the houses destroyed in the fire are being rebuilt which is gratifying to see as it has created job employment and proves that SFB is still many peoples favourite holiday destination. 
• The wind farm on the Oyster Bay road has started.  The contractors Red Cap have agreed to have regular meetings with the community to update us on progress.  This project is significant for St Francis Bay as it will be employing 50% of its labour from Sea Vista. 
• We asked Council for an explanation as to why there is such a discrepancy in the meter reading period going from anything from 28 days to 41 days.  Herewith an explanation from Council:-  
“Electricity payments.  The municipality would like to apologise for those instances where the period between meter readings was exceptionally long.
Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that influence the length of periods and over which the municipality does not have control, for example, the weather.
We can assure residents, however, that the municipality is looking at adapting the programme used to calculate electricity usage to ensure that residents are charged correctly regardless of the length of the period between readings.
Residents who believe they have been overcharged for electricity can send their particulars to the municipality - in writing please - so that we can follow up on it.  
• We have had sight of the Kouga Municipality Draft Budget 2013/2014.  There are many issues in this budget which we are not happy with and are in the process of addressing.  This includes a proposed rates increase of 13% and staff salary increases of 11.8%. 
• A number of concerned property owners have approached the Residents Association with a view to assisting us in increasing our membership especially those people living in the Gauteng and Kwazulu Natal areas.  This endeavour is greatly appreciated by the Residents Association, as without more people paying membership fees it is impossible for us to continue with our projects as well as effectively represent property owners in St Francis Bay.

Jacky Green
Administration manager  

SA MILITARY UNION ALLEGES SANDF WITCH-HUNT FOR CAR WHISTLEBLOWERS

A press release just received suggests that South African Defence Force chief, General Solly Shoke, has a ordered a military intelligence operation to uncover  the identities of persons who leaked information to the media on anything involving the Central African Republic. This is the statement:

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL DEFENCE UNION IN REACTION TO RECENT INFORMATION THAT CHIEF SANDF HAS ORDERED AN INTELLIGENCE OPERATION TO IDENTIFY ALL PERSONS WHO LEAKED INFORMATION TO THE MEDIA REGARDING THE CAR.

19 APRIL 2013

SANDU has been alerted to the fact that Chief SANDF General Solly Shoke has ordered a military intelligence operation to identify all persons who have 'leaked' information to the media on anything to do the Central African Republic deployment. 

SANDU views this in a very serious light as no crime has been committed and no troops were endangered by information obtained by the media. The only danger being in the fact that our troops shouldn't have been placed in the predicament it had been in the first place. The only 'damage' caused was a massive embarrassment to Government s not by people telling the full truth.  

This Intelligence  operation is a blatant abuse and waste of state resources and should not be tolerated. We implore SANDF management to rather better its communication skills with the public of South Africa, than engage in a petty Apartheid styled witch hunt against the media and its sources. This is impeding on freedom of the press and information, as the public's right to know the truth behind the unnecessary and untimely death of our troops in the CAR.

This latest development compounds the suspicions of a  cover up.

JG Greeff 

NATIONAL SECRETARY SANDU

A MAMPARA FOR ALL SEASONS

Mamparas come in all shapes and sizes but the one heading the Eastern Cape education department will always be a leading candidate for the much sought after accolade which, in South Africa, is distributed with remorseless regularity, for they are legion. If I didn't know better, I'd swear  the SA government had a breeding programme to churn them out.

The prizewinner is MEC for EC Education, the esteemed (or so he thinks) and pontificating Mandla Makapula, who was quoted as telling a group of South African pupils recently that they had no rights. Read it again, it isn't a misprint. Here is what he said:

'For you, rights come later in life when you are independent, finished studying and have your own place to stay and your own car. That is when you can start talking about rights.'

According to the Mail & Guardian he was allegedly referring to an Eastern Cape boy who took his father to court after he was forced to attend initiation school. This is what he added: 

'I asked myself what was wrong with that boy. His father did go to the initiation school but, because of the rights now, he did not want to go there himself ... I wish he could have been my child, I would have hit him on the head with a knobkerrie and he would have gone to that initiation school crying.'

The province's education department moved swiftly to downplay Makapula's patriarchal dogmatism with an even more absurd statement from spokesman Loyiso Pulumani, who told the M&G:

'He said these things in jest, he was only trying to be humorous. He wasn't suggesting in any way that children don't have rights.'

He perhaps forgot to add that it was a perverted sense of humour, if that was the case. But I suspect, as I imagine will many readers, that it is a ridiculous excuse for authoritarianism, patriarchal dogmatism and pomposity. It's pretty much how the government runs this country and then moves quickly to dispel scandal and controversy with ludicrous and laughable spin that is so obviously rubbish.

The wildly spinning Pulumani said the provincial minister did not say these things 'in so many words'.

'There has been a misunderstanding of African idioms here. You need to try to understand the cultural differences here and the nuances in language.'

Pulumani may need to get a firm grasp of linguistics or he'll spin himself into a tizz. Unless he's aiming for the mampara of spin accolade.

Regional director of the Legal Resources Centre (LRC) told the M&G that Makapula's comments are an example of the 'state of chaos in the Eastern Cape department of education'.

So the country ploughs on under the leadership of pontificating incompetents hell bent on self-aggrandisement rather than the interests of the populace.

We have become a nation beset by a rampant and self-enriching mamparadom.