Got visitors coming to Obs?
Our private rooms are quiet, comfortable and quintessentially Obs. Our dorms, housed separately, are ideal for student groups. Phone 021 448 6359
March 2017
Tel: 021 448 7090
Neighbourhood news, taken seriously
OBS THROUGH THE AGES: Left: Lower Main Road, circa 1900’s. Right: Lower Main Road
today.
Growth of Obs Culture Robert Small, editor for the ObsLife collective.
WhAT is culture? The classical definition is that it is anything to do with the arts, science, education, spirituality, philosophy and religion. Culture infiltrates every part of human life: business, Politics, and organised Religion. It has often been said that culture is first learned at the Mother’s breast- especially the culture of love. but where does Culture really come from? Well, clearly it comes from us human beings. Something inside of us all,
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that wants to become, in any and every way, better or different than before. This edition of ObsLife tries to focus on the culture in Observatory. We have found that it is an evolving construct, as it perhaps should be. There is indeed a great deal happening in this diverse neighbourhood. No-one can authoritatively list every play or exhibition or musical performance in Obs, and many things are in flux. There is certainly a new and positive culture of collaboration breaking continued on page 7
info@obslife.co.za
Can you crack Da’Obs code? ThIS edition of ObsLife brings to readers an exciting puzzle we have called the Da Obs Code. The person that cracks the code wins gift vouchers worth several hundred rand. All you need to do is read all the articles and ads carefully. Find odd, scattered / missing words that may differ to the rest of the content and then make up the unique sentence using the words you’ve found. Should there be more than one correct submission, a lucky draw will determine the winner of the following prizes. A R100 gift voucher for Obs Kwikspar, R100 worth of Savings Stamps redeemable at Observatory Pick n Pay, lunch voucher for two at eat on Main valued at R300, ObSID gift voucher of R100 to purchase groceries at the informal grocery trader on station road, R100 worth of buka Kombucha health beverage. Submit your entries to Claudine-OBSID Admin at officeadmin@ obsid.org.za on the 30 March before 16h00.
OBZ Smirnoff 1818 Savannah Dry/Light Vodka 330ml R56.99/ 6pack 750ml R 99.99
57 Milton road, Observatory
Castle Lite 330ml 18pack R99.99
Jack Black Lager 330ml R 69.99 / 6pack Richelieu Brandy 750ml R 114.99
March 2017
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info@obslife.co.za
Final public participation meeting held for TRUP The last of the Public Participation Process (PPP) meetings, facilitated by Sun Development consultants and hosted by the River Club, was well attended by local stakeholders, The twelfth and final PPP, in a series of meetings, was intended to co-design a future development scenario for the Two Rivers Park area surrounded by Observatory, Oude Molen Eco Village, Pinelands, Maitland Garden Village and the River Club. Presentations by the Provincial Two Rivers Park professional team and con-
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082 458 3184 Here are the latest statistics on new property transfers available from the deeds office in Cape Town since 1 November 2016. When you know more about the market, you can make more informed decisions about your investment. Address
Price R
Sale Date
Characteristics*
25 Arnold Street
2,250,000
15/08/2016
213 / 3 / A / P2
35 Falmouth Road
1,100,000
20/09/2016
405 / 3 / P / 0
8A. James Street
1,550,000
04/09/2016
108 / 2 / G / 0
200 Lower Main Road
2,000,000
12/05/16
347 / Commercial
207 Lower Main Road
2,600,000
06/10/2016
105 / Commercial
42 Oxford Road
2,395,000
16/09/2016
146 / 2 / G / P1
49 Oxford Road
2,250,000
02/10/2016
128 / 2 / G / 0
59 Polo Road
1,895,000
19/08/2016
154 / 1 / A / P2
6 Robins Road
2,200,000
12/10/2016
130 / 2 / G / 0
13 Roman Road
1,500,000
29/06/2016
116 / 2 / A / 0
MOWBRAY
MOWBRAY
MOWBRAY
MOWBRAY
25 John Street
1,000,000
12/09/2016
89 / 2 / P / 0
1 Montreal Close
1,750,000
28/08/2016
211 / 2 / G / P1
23 Strubens Road
1,600,000
01/08/2016
535 / 4 / A / P2.G1
*Plot size(sq.m)/Bedrooms/Condition (Good.Average.Poor)/ Parking(P) Garage(G)
sultants and the Two Rivers Park Association led to an active exchange of ideas and the promotion of alternative solutions for the area. The participation process has been aimed at finding a win-win solution to the Provincial/ City’s densification development strategy approach and the TRUP Associations’ appropriate balanced development approach. The results Local Safer; residents, organisations and other stakeholders at were documented the public participation meeting recently held at the River Club. and will be availa- The meeting was held to discuss the development plans for the ble for public scru- Two Rivers Urban Park area, between Liesbeeek and Black tiny. River Parkway. The next step in the process to determine what will be legacy and no affordable housing being allowed in and around the TRUP area allocated in the proposed development. will be informed by a Local Spatial DeA preferred alternative option prevelopment Framework Public Participa- sented by TRUP constituents was for tion Process. Affected stakeholders and Province and City to explore a landinterested parties are encouraged to be swop for land owned by the City in-beinvolved in this to ensure the Provin- tween the Black River Parkway office cial Administration and City’s co-design park development and the River Club. philosophy and policy is inclusive and This would be in exchange for wetlands purchased by the River Club from fair. Issues highlighted at the recent PRASA so that it could remain wetlands Public Participation Process were the and open to the public. Hudson McComb, chairperson for following. The River Club’s future development the TRUP Association, expressed that proposal needed to be included in the while stakeholders found the process of PPP as per the City initiated TRUP con- engaging different scenarios somewhat textual Framework in 2003. complex, he personally found the proFlooding of Hartleyvale and sur- cess of engaging with provincial govrounding Observatory properties as a ernment as custodians of public assets result of the intended infill of land by encouraging. the River Club future development proHe acknowledged the provincial posal was a great concern for Observa- government’s desire to collaborate and tory property owners in the area. engage with the public as equal co-cusThe additional high density build- todians of public assets to co-design ing footprint in the TRUP area by the future development proposals for the River Club on the wetlands with histor- TRUP area in order to produce sustainical cultural and heritage significance able outcomes we can all take ownerwas perceived as problematic given the ship of and ensure a legacy future genemphasis on addressing the apartheid erations will benefit from.
Water crisis now a disaster The City has now declared the current drought as a local disaster. This emphasises the seriousness of the water situation in the Cape. While not everyone agrees with her, our Mayor has some sensible words: “We may not have control over the weather, but we do have control over our use of potable water for non-essential uses. Our actions can change the
scenario.“ She is right. What is easy to do? Fix leaks, take short showers, use your grey water Observatory to water the garden; stick to the water regulations. Don’t use water except for absolute need. Every drop counts. Wise water use is also a culture. Good habits like healthy lifestyles must be cultivated.
March 2017
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Your handouts may keep people on the streets Carolyn Neville, chair of the Obs Civic Association. Observatory is home to a floating population of street people, as well as a core group who have made Observatory their home for years. Some are drawn by the proximity to Groote Schuur hospital, Valkenberg and Cape Mental Health where they receive regular medication. Some are drawn by the generous students and residents that live in the area. Others are attracted by the density of restaurants and night life that provide ample scope for asking for money and some drawn by the drug trade. When make we give money to street people, are we really helping? The reasons why people are fending for themselves on the street are as diverse as the people themselves. These may include broken families, overcrowding at home, financial difficulties, substance abuse, death of a close family member and involvement in gangs. Of course, visitors and residents naturally feel guilty when passing such folk on the street but giving money really does not help their situation in the long term. It just keeps them on the street.
Usually they make enough money begging to avoid starvation, but not enough to change their situation, and very often alcohol and drugs are part of their story as people try to escape the pain of their reality. Not assisting or ignoring the problem is also no solution. Those street people who wish to change their situation can seek help and support. Here are some ideas to help: - Treat street people with respect. Speak to them, get to know their name and story. Often street people simply want to be treated with dignity. - Encourage those doing car guard work to stop telling people to park illegally on the roads. If you see a self-appointed car guard hassling someone for payment, talk to them or if necessary call Observatory Improvement District (OBSID). We don’t want visitors to the area to park illegally or be hustled for money. - Be smarter and give responsibly. Food and your time just listening are always better than money. - If you are a business in the area, consider being involved in a scheme whereby patrons can add some money to their bill and these funds go towards
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supporting local organisations dealing with street people. - Support organisations working with street people in the area. Such as the OBSID Development Programme, which provides employment with the OBSID Cleaning Team and then mentoring them towards securing employment. Loaves and Fishes is a well established shelter for those who have decided to change their lives. They provide accommodation, specific courses and mentoring support. Breaking Bread Community Development offers a Friday night meal and fellowship with street people. This NPO, initiated by a group of international students, are seeking to secure a site to build a centre that will provide showers, toilets, lockers, clothes washing facilities for those who live on the street. They will also be running a number of intervention programmes aimed at educating, skilling and rehabilitating street people. The Jubilee Church operates a free clinic for those in need. Remember, handing out money indiscriminately continues the vicious cycle of poverty and dependence. Contact the OBSID to get in touch with the organisations mentioned above.
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March 2017
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Get ready for Obs’ Art Thursdays About Ahem! For a curated walk of art, music and the great café life of Lower Main Road, free your calender on Thursday, 13th April from 6pm. Collect your event map from AHEM! at 77 Lower Main Road or from any of the participating venues. Selected works of Alexandr Petrok, Simoone Massi, Nausicca Giraud, Ulysse Malassange, Greg Broadmore, Iris Muddy, Alex Diboine, Jake Wyatt, Loic Locatell, Uskiki Masanori, Atelier Santo, Theodore Key, Ree Treweek Visitors enjoy art, music and food at the most recent Art and many more will be on Thursdays in Obs. display. Art Studio of Kilford Cement, Jenni and An’So. Recommended parking would be Dodd at the Bohemian Lofts, the Drawing Room Café, an Art Installation at Pepper Square behind Kwikspar, the 146 Station Road, will be showcasing Community Centre parking lot and legal artworks on the day of the event. street parking. Some local restaurants and cafés are Nuttall Road – OCA managed Pepper offering Art Thursdays specials. These Square Parking – pay to park. businesses include Peacock Bar, CoCo Law enforcement and community Cha Chi, Eat on Main, Mimi’s and Retail security structures have been notified Products & Vintage. of the event and requested for visible Trenchtown will be hosting musi- patrol and presence during the evening. cal performances and there is a Secret Observatory Improvement District Cinema at River Club- a BAFTA nom- public safety officers will be on patrol. inated film. Woodstock police, the Obs commuLook out for the local craft market, nity Policing Forum and Obs Neighwhich includes young designers such as bourhood Watch have been informed Kwai Clothing Pty Ltd, Nairobi’s Olive about the event. For more information on the Art Skin Care Range, MAG – Urban African Accessories, Kenneth –Trash to Treas- Thursdays in Obz, visit their Facebook ure – Recycled Fashion, Yemojo Cape page at https://www.facebook.com/ Town – Life in colour (TBC), Paper Art OBS-Culture-166220237222737/
Art collective
Once upon a time, an illustrator wanted to make something beautiful and wanted somewhere to put it for all the world to see. She walked down Bury Street in London and discovered The Illustration Cupboard, quirky little joint full of wonderous illustrated works. She wondered if anything similar existed back home in the mother city. But the Cape Town art world had no such thing. This makes it very difficult to display ‘non-fine art’ work and forces many illustrators to take the online route. But what about people who love the smell of old books, freshly printed sheets, mighty markers and the feel of a brush pen against rice paper? So this travelling illustrator opened a shop, a gallery space for illustrators, art lovers, photographers and film makers. It is a home for globe trotters who seek the unusual. Ahem is also a community outreach project. Revenue from membership and sales go towards keeping the space alive, promoting lesser privileged artists and a youth outreach project in our community to encourage and mentor young minds who lack opportunities or access to art. Ahem Art Collective is open to illustrators, artists, film makers and photographers. The collective is the hub of the Art Thursdays in Obz, a movement that is highlighting the local culture. Find out more www.ahemartcollective.co.za
Advertorial: Pick n Pay Observatory
Obs PnP always there to lend a helping hand “Doing Good is Good Business.” This is the core cultural value of Observatory Pick n Pay Family Supermarket, said Umberto de Abreu, owner of Obs PnP. The Obs Pick n Pay staff and management have thus invested in many local, social causes. The store particularly supports Straatwerk, an organisation who run an employment program for street people by offering them work as cleaners. Straatwerk works mainly in the neighbouring Groote Schuur CID (GCID). “The Observatory Improvement District (OBSID) and the GCID collaborate well and thus this [relationship] benefits everyone,” said Umberto. Obs Pick n Pay regularly donates food to Straatwerk. “We also do everything possible to help our staff develop themselves,” Umberto said. For example, Obs Pick n Pay’s most
Left: Customer Lucia Giesler of Stellenbosch who’s daughter is in 1st year UCT, being ably assisted by Pick n Pay staffer, Cherylene .
cheerful staffer, Cherylene Brown, started as a till packer and is now a customer service agent. Umberto said they have a culture of genuine service, adding that they sincerely care about people and the community. “The real purpose of our business is not to just earn money, but to help each
other, serve each other,” he said. Do you want to know more about Obs Pick n Pay’s social outreach? Please contact Zeenith Thomas on 021-448 9802 or on fobservatory@pnp. co.za. Observatory Pick n Pay is open daily from 7am -10pm. Phone 021 448 9802
March 2017
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Homeless helpers want to expand their services bReAKING bread Community Development has just launched a fund raiser on backabuddy, a crowd funding website, as the organisation’s aim is to raise R 50 000 to open a permanent Soup Kitchen in Observatory or Salt River. They currently run a weekly mobile soup kitchen on the Village Green. Over the last 12 months, they have not only built friendships with the homeless people in the area but they have seen what issues they face on a daily basis. The organisation therefore wants to continue and develop their work in the observatory community. Their goal is to raise enough funds to rent a suitable premises so they can feed people on a regular basis. The place should be easy for homeless people to find them, so they can begin to work with them and offer them further assistance to improve their lives and well-being. They also intend to do outreach feeding programmes for the children in Salt River and Observatory who are also homeless or from vulnerable backgrounds. In collaboration with ObSID and
OCA, and through a suggested range of initiatives and with professional assistance from a Social Worker, they believe that it’s possible to assess the requirements of as many people as possible to promote their self-worth and place in our community. breaking bread Community Development also us aim to raise awareness of the issues that Cape Town’s most vulnerable face on a daily basis. They also aim to challenge the misconceptions that are often attached to homeless people. Please donate to this worthy cause or volunteer and help out. Contact CJ Roper at carinajayneroper@gmail.com. https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/breaking-bread-with-the-community. https://www. facebook.com/breakingbreadnpo/
Local action group backs TRUP DAG is a leading NGO in the field of South African urban development and has been at the forefront of housing delivery and policy development for over 30 years. DAG works with government and civil society in the city to ensure that there is accountability, transparency and good governance in urban development. They help ensure that communities are involved in decision-making processes and have also developed an innovative approach to the delivery of low-income housing. Through DAG’s support, 7,323 new houses have been built in the last 30 years. Over the last three years, the organisation has assisted over 70 civic organisations, across the city, with influencing urban development projects. These projects include the re-imagining of the black River Corridor – including Two Rivers Urban Park (TRUP), Mowbray Golf Course and Athlone Power Station, Woodstock and Salt River, Khayelitsha CbD and Parow Station Arcade. DAG also has a network of community based organisations and leaders, many of who formerly participated in DAG’s Community Leadership Programmes, working in informal settlements and backyards across Cape Town. Most recently DAG has supported the Grand Parade Traders As-
sociation, Kuilsriver backyarders and the Kensington backyarders. In June DAG will be hosting the Architects without borders – UK for two weeks. Visit dag@dag.org.za or call 021 448 7886 to find out more about their work.
Lunch and dinner
Global street food with TASTY vegetarian options Wide selection of craft beer and wine by the glass Leafy courtyard * sunny veranda * vibey bar * fireplace Book your function or birthday party with us! R50 lunch special from Tues to Thur, 12-4pm
Tue-Sat 12-10pm • Sun 12-5 pm 12 NuttaLl Rd, Observatory
Tel 021 447 4650 atouchofmadness.events @gmail.com
@ATOM_Obs
A Touch of Madness @ATOM_Obs
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March 2017
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Obs resident’s local encounters Barbara Langridge hUMANITy is connected by the desire to feel secure behind a door. Our doors reflect our culture, wealth, expression and need. When I moved to Observatory a constant stream of visitors appeared at my front door. These encounters got me thinking about the significance of a door. My reality in documenting the lives of those outside my door was deeply connected to the same searching as those on the outside. As I got to know the “regulars” I became curious to find out how their lives had reached this point at my door. Mhako Wilberforce Sojola, born in the eastern Cape, came to my door to sell litho printed black and white cards. he attended art lessons about 20 years ago. he is diagnosed mentally ill but through medication manages to function as an artist and fends for himself. he had been on a number of community art projects and had received quite a lot of
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support to keep him productive and encouraged. his main challenge is access to stable income through sales of cards and art. 18 year old Tarique Arendse was attending school doing his matric and was selling handmade ashtrays made out of cooldrink tins. I ordered one but he never did return with either my R50 or my ashtray. he seemed at the fork in the road between choosing education or a life of crime and drugs. What struck me was the darkness and sadness in his eyes. Warren was born in 1985 and had been hustling on the street since he was 14. Carers fostered him as his parents could not afford to give him a home. Drugs had become a dominant feature of is life. he was in poor health but very intelligent, despite being uneducated. he had lost contact with all family and did not know where they were or whether they were alive. Warren was recently the subject of a portrait done by acclaimed Cape Town artist Daniel Clarke. he taught me poverty is not defined by financial status, but by spiritual emptiness. Of all the people I have encountered, only those that had support in the early stages of them being vulnerable to street life were able to rehabilitate and have a semi functional life. I realised how ill equipped I was to deal with these people but what I could offer was acknowledgement of their existence. We’re all just a few steps away from being homeless in this changing world. It could be me.
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Kenneth Roman, OBSID social worker.
Insight to Obs’ homeless KeNNeTh Roman, ObSID social development manager, has a small office down by Observatory station. he said that there are approximately 65 homeless people who actually live in ObS. All the rest are visitors who are attracted for various reason such as generous residents who give food, clothing and money. Another attraction is organisations who host workshops or events for the homeless and also for prostitutes, and provide food and support to them during the workshops or events.” he said that while good is being done by residents and organisations, the consequences of what they do needs to be managed in a more integrated way. “For instance, no mothers with kids live on the street in ObS,” said Kenneth, adding that when you see homeless mothers and kids around then you know there is a workshop going on. Another powerful insight Kenneth has is that along with homeless visitors, come the inevitable drug pushers. “We all need to work together in a more co-ordinated way to solve this problem,” he said. When asked what would best help Obs deal with its homeless people, Kenneth unequivocally stated that each Whatsapp street group could maybe sponsor one place in the ObSID Job Shadowing program. “We need many more sponsored places. It only costs R2 000 a month to ensure one homeless person gets the chance to get off the streets for good. “We select candidates carefully and we have 7 on the program right now but a queue of 15 or more are waiting for a place. This program is much more cost effective in the long run than hand-outs and emergency help, since it really makes a life-long difference.”
March 2017
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Obs’ rich cultural heritage Exploring Obs Tauriq Jenkins Observatory holds two firsts for me, the first time I fell in love and the first time I’d been mugged. This dichotomy of experience epitomizes Obs as both alive and deadening. From the onset, one can indulge in the historical underbelly of Obs. From the Royal Kraal of the Khoisan on the banks of the Liesbeek River who defended the free soil in South Africa’s first encounter against the colonial powers, to the first heart transplant by Chris Barnard at Groote Schuur Hospital. The same hospital that gave life is where former prime minister and apartheid ‘architect’ Hendrik Verwoed breathed his last breath. Valkenberg Hospital was the first and largest psychiatric hospital in Africa. Other facts include the world’s first radio wave that emanated from Arnold Street. The then Royal Observatory scientifically proved the world to be round and while doing so invented the world’s first air conditioners. Thousands of years before the Observatory telescope was built, this is where the secrets of the stars were observed by Khoi astronomers. This ‘grey zone’ of Apartheid, Obs
Obs history to come alive
The Living History of Observatory project was born after the spray-painting of the War Memorial in an effort to re-examine our history and culture to try and bring about new bridges of understanding and tolerance. “It is also a philosophical endeavour”, said Edwin Angless, the founder of the project. “I am on a journey to find new meaning in culture and community here in OBS.” The project has entered a new phase where research is being done to produce a six and a half hour mini TV series which will be broadcast on CTV and then hopefully later on SATV or ETV. The first episode will be an introduction to the further five episodes, which will deal with our little-known Khoisan heritage, the structural and architectural development of Obs, the political activism of the seventies and eighties, Obs as an artistic nexus and a look at gentrification and rapacious development. This research, in the form of archival primary source material and interviews will be completed by June of this year. Anybody with any stories is encouraged to please contact the research co-ordinator – OBSID board member Edwin Angless – on edwin@obsid.org. za.
culture
attracts and detracts the finest as well as the worst. A crucible of cultures and morals. According to our latest national census, Obs is 40% Black, 37% White, and then split between Coloured and Indian. Of the 40% Black, 60% are foreign. Ironically, the most consistent element of Obs’s demography is its transient group of visitors. Hypnotized by its magnetic pull that sinks or swings. It’s a place of capture and recapture. Of art. Ultimately, we all honour Obs as it honours us. In our difference, we find a stem that binds us in our frailty, deepening the question of who we are and where we come from. Email tauriqishere@gmail.com for the full article.
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continued from page 1
through in Obs. We will continue to encourage this new culture of collaboration through inspiration. Of course, there is also the culture of the dark world of crime and grime – but is this really culture or death of culture? And who really, even the criminals, really want to remain in this underworld if they could find a way out that would truly satisfy their deepest longings? This ObsLife’s cultural focus is just a beginning- we have not been able to undertake extensive interviews. But we have been able to present some of the things that are reported to us by residents Therefore, please send us news of your project and how you add value to Obs. We will always want to promote and support you in every way possible. ObsLife itself is a cultural platform- an attempt to inspire an even more collaborative lifestyle and get the culture of “a place in the sun for all” happening, as best as humanly possible.
Advertorial: Obz Kwikspar
Obs Kwikspar - your family store Obs kwikspar is a family business that is founded on good family values. We support a number of arts, educational and social values-building initiatives such as AFDA Film School, Jubilee Church, St Luke’s Hospice, Woodstock Police and Dreyden Primary School . A customer reported that Kwikspar is more than just a supermarket, it’s truly a community store. The staff are helpful, friendly and welcoming. Many people from many different ethnic, educational and class backgrounds come to shop at Obs Kwikspar- to get what they need to live.
It is clear that many people enjoy their time in the store. Just being there can make a customer smile . “Obs Kwikspar is a place I enjoy going to - its a cultural event in itself to shop there, since so many different kinds of folks from all over SA, Africa and the world of all ages can be seen and even chatted to,” the customer said. Obs Kwikspar also gives wonderful opportunities for customers to win prizes. Like the Lenovo Tab 3 Wifi Tablet that is available (see ad on page 3) . If you want to know anything more please contact Cesaro Rodrigues (store manager) or Alcino Pecego (owner) on 021-4480409 or obz1@retail.spar.co.za.
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2017 The ObservatoryMarch Improvement District
info@obslife.co.za
Eccentric OBSID worker, Henry, passes Henry Oliver 10 September 1961 – 10 January 2017 Henry Oliver passed away tragically on the 10 January 2017. He is survived by his daughter and siblings. Henry was employed as a General Worker at OBSID from the 01 June 2011, having had experience as a driver, storeman and administration clerk. As a general worker and cleaner, Henry was responsible for removing the graffiti and hot spots in Observatory. He had his own methodical way in doing his day to day tasks. He was a great asset to the company and Observatory. If I had one phrase to describe Henry Oliver, it would be deeply spiritual. Yes, you would think him peculiar! A former Hells Angel to boot too. But if ever you actually took the time to speak to him and got to know him, you would have learnt all the different dimensions of this extraordinary character, named Henry Oliver. He truly is sorely missed!
Obs LPR cameras help in 7 arrests so far
LPR stands for Licence Plate Recognition, and this is a software technology linked to a camera capable of running it, in order to record the licence plate and vehicle description details of the vehicles that pass within its focus. In simple terms, every car that passes the camera has its number plate read by the camera, even at night. The number is then sent up to a database server, which does a quick search on it, a bit like a Google search you do on your computer. If the number has been ‘listed’ or registered in the database with a South African Police Services case number linked to a crime, an alert is then sent to SAPS, security and public safety companies in the area. Only vehicles positively linked to crimes are listed, and the process to do so is controlled. The database is not accessible to citizens so not anyone can register number plates on it. Residents will not be able to list the number plate of the neighbour who parks too close to your driveway! Most suburbs in Cape Town have these
camera’s installed now, but they are very expensive. In Obs, we were not able to afford them until some more economical models were released late last year. The first area to have a number of these camera’s installed, was the City Centre, as part of the original Business against Crime initiative. They proved so successful that other neighbourhoods began to install them immediately. Finally, we in Obs are joining the club. Crime in Obs is inherently mobile, most of our perpetrators drive into Obs, commit a crime or crimes, and roll right out of Obs back onto the choice of 5 freeways or the many minor roads that surround us. We will use these cameras for two main purposes. Firstly, to get an alert about a listed vehicle entering the area. The alert will be forwarded to our local sector SAPS teams, as well as all the security companies that work in our area, including the OBSID security team. Secondly, any vehicle that has been linked to a crime committed in Obs, will also be listed along with the case number
of the case it was involved in. These details are shared with the neighbourhoods across the Peninsula, so not only we will be watching for them. The system has proven effective. In the middle of February, our single camera has already contributed to 7 arrests and provided nearly 100 alerts over the period mid December to mid February. Interestingly, the arrests are not only in Obs. Two were in Mowbray, two in Woodstock and three for ATM crimes in Obs. This simply underlines the fact that the key to this success is cooperation. A central storage area means that data is being compared across many locations and the more of them there are, the fewer places criminals have to hide. As with everything else in our OBSID area, budgets and money are tight, but we have planned to add to this network later in the year, with both the assistance and approval from the City of Cape Town. Our public safety motto to the community in Obs is ‘see something, say something’. The LPR cameras are just another extension of that very effective practice in community led public safety.
Welcome to our new security company, Outer Shield Security Solutions! Readers will have noticed a new “cultural” feature in OBS, a uniformed security guard on a Segway on red alert! Report all suspicious behaviour to the OBSID control room on 021 447 1066
OBSID job program growing
March 2017 The Observatory Improvement District
Demand for the OBSID job shadowing internship program has grown beyond available funds. OBSID as part of its Responsible Giving social development program launched a job shadowing internship program in March 2016 to assist homeless and unemployed people improve their circumstances which to date has proven to be very successful. A partnership is growing between OBSID, Loaves & Fishes, Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre and a new Non-Profit Organisation called Breaking Bread Development Programme. The program provides a job shadowing program with supervision and continuous assessment of candidates involved in cleaning streets, graffiti removal, public safety and City maintenance audits and follow-up on work completed, together with accommodation, food and family support. OBSID would like to challenge and encourage individuals, businesses, faith based organisations, street collectives or a combination of the above to sponsor additional jobs shadowing internship opportunities. It costs R 2 000 per person per month to complete the program. The OBSID is looking for sponsors for a seven month period. During this time occupants gain market related skills to secure gainful employment while adding value to Observatory residents via numerous responsibilities. We are delighted to welcome our first sponsor Werner Steyn of Werner Property Agents who will be sponsoring two job shadowing positions on a monthly basis. We are in discussions with another enterprise owner willing to sponsor an additional position. Sponsors benefit from public relations via branded bibs (provided by the sponsor). While making a meaningful contribution towards the cleanliness and safety of Observatory,which all residents benefit from, sponsors simultaneously improve the circumstances of a person or people in need of a hand up rather than a hand out. Contact OBSID Social Development Manager Kenneth Roman should you require any information or wish to sponsor a candidate. Email: socialissues@obsid. org.za
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International interns required Are you currently Cleaner studying and require an internship? OBSID is looking for International interns to assist in the following fields for 3 months or more: Social development Research Urban planning Admin and management Journalism and photography Social media Should you know of International interns or organisations offering placements for International interns, please contact us on 021 4487090 or admin@obsid.org.za
Station Rd traders get new spot
Until recently informal vendors in Station Road overtrading beyond the demarcated areas allocated by the City and had caused congestion for pedestrians on an already narrow sidewalk in Station Road. Legally, Law Enforcement and/or the City department responsible for Informal Trading are obliged to warn, fine and or confiscate offenders’ goods when traders are in breach of the trading regulations. OBSID and the City discussed this with the relevant traders who, in order to continue trading beyond the demarcated areas, agreed to relocate to the oppo-
site side of the road where the Blue Tent hamburger traders are located and in front of the Village Green, where the sidewalk is far wider, causing far less congestion for pedestrians. This has made a huge difference to pedestrian movement on the Kwikspar side of Station Road and many residents are very grateful to the City and vendors for their cooperation and a decision that improves local residents and visitors experience in Observatory. The OBSID encourages residents and visitors to give these informal traders their support!
OBSID Security manager Jason Hill with the traders.
Contact the OBSID on 021 448 7090 or info@obsid.org.za www.OBSID.org.za - facebook.com/Observatory.Improvement.District
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March 2017
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Award winning theatre, right on your doorstep By Jessica Hewson NeXT time you find yourself on the corner of Milton Road and Wesley Street, looking up at the stone help walled Methodist Church hall, step inside, into our space. You will find a thriving realm of artistic alchemy. The Theatre Arts Admin Collective (TAAC) has been creating new and experimental theatre right here in the heart of Observatory since 2009. We feed off this neighbourhood’s vibrancy. Obs is renowned for being a multi-cultural melting pot. This diversity is reflected in the theatre makers and the work coming into being. The artists and theatre practitioners who enter our space are encouraged to innovate in all aspects of their work. We champion inclusivity and accessibility. As Caroline Calburn (TAAC director) said:“It needs to feel like a space that remains full of potential. That you can experiment and fail dismally if you need to. That it cuts through perceptions of
what theatre is and who theatre is for.” During the day and evening, the venue can be hired out for very affordable rates. We have three beautiful spaces in which people can play and create. The Main hall of the Church plays host to in-house and external productions on a regular basis. The acoustics are amazing. The ‘stage’ and seating can be designed in any way. Some of the top South African theatre work is being cultivated here. Kleisand is the theatre company resident until the end of 2017. Founder Jason Jacobs is a multi talented theatre practitioner. he was one of the 2016 recipients of our Theatre Arts Admin Collective emerging Theatre Director’s bursary. This programme provides opportunity for four emerging directors annually to each create a new piece of work under mentorship. 2016 saw vastly different productions come to light under the emerging Theatre Directors bursary. Mahlatsi Mokgonyana chose to direct Athol Fu-
gard’s My Children My Africa to great acclaim. Wynne bredenkamp staged the beautifully evocative At the edge of the Light and Ameera Conrad’s politically conscious Reparation played to full houses and will be featuring at the National Arts Festival this year. Kati Francis will be our resident artist from 20th February to 11th March. Kati is a community participatory theatre specialist from the UK. Kati will be exploring haiku Theatre - Performance Provocations in Public Spaces. TAAC is also involved in creating innovative children’s theatre. A fantastic schools programme is running this month called I Am Also. The double bill of performances and a chaired conversation by Sonke Gender Justice will focus on what it takes to be seen, felt and heard as a young South African man. 2017 has already seen much activity. We hosted a board games party by Meeples on the Move, as well as an exploratory collaborative multi-media evening, The Window. The inaugural African Women Playwrights Network Symposium took place on the first weekend of February. The diversity of what occurs speaks to TAAC’s vision as an incubator space and lab of experimentation and innovation. This is all happening right here in your hood – unheard of ticket prices and no petrol cost. www.theatrearts.co.za Contact 021 447 3683. Email calburn@ mweb.co.za Local hand out free hugs at the latest Streetopia Obs Festival organised by Afrikaburn.
Obs - our blank canvas AFRIKABURn nestles so comfortably in Obs. Why? The short answer is history, the longer one swirls around, the taproot of burns draw more life blood from a solid dose of bohemianism, part anarchy, some renegade, dare we say hippie, deep art culture soil. Obs is that. A burb that back in the dark days was more integrated than most (except maybe for our sister Woodstock). Its Victorian bones,with smatterings of
deco and a good dose of derelict warehouses and workspace, is the catnip that can make something like Afrikaburn go from an idea into hard beautiful reality. When we started Afrikaburn, we found a home here, mostly at Ganesh, Armchair and the bijou. Its textured engaging, it rubs up against you always, a flavoured swaggering renegade that cares deeply. It’s a friendship, it’s a partnership, we love Obs. It’s our blank canvas. We chose Obs, but Obs also chose us.
March 2017
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Obs locals invited to bring Shakespeare to life Educape Trust and Shakespeare Schools Festival SA, in collaboration with the Independent Theatre Movement of South Africa and the Observatory Civic Association, invite the Observatory neighbourhood to tell their stories. A selected team of theatre makers, artists, musicians and craftsman will lead the Obs neighbourhood in developing original Shakespearean works. The Observatory Community will contribute to all aspects of these productions, from story development to live performance, as our team of professionals will offer the mentorship and guidance. This exciting pilot project will commence in the final production at the end of November 2017. We envision the opportunity for the Observatory Community to come together under the creative process of Arts and Theatre while we discover new ways to network and open up the opportunities to better the lives of the people in this diverse neighbourhood. We invite you to join our team for the very first meeting and discussion.
Please RSVP to info@educape.co.za for catering purposes. For all inquiries, please email info@educape.co.za or tauriq@southafricantheatre.org Observatory Civic Arts and Culture Portfolio places the arts in the forefront of civic action. The Observatory Civic Association’s Arts and Culture portfolio is hosting a series of exciting Obs Round Table Discussions. Topics include the history of the Khoisan and gentrification, xenophobia, education and protest, Brexit, Trump and Zuma. It
also includes discussions around voluntarism and social development and media in an age of terrorism. Also, a series of multi-disciplinary events will take place around the War Memorial opposite Spar. This is aimed at inviting critical debate and artistic interpretation on inclusiveness around the memory of war and protest in Observatory. If you would like to get involved, please email tauriqishere@ gmail.com for enquiries. Obs resident, and former COO of OBSID, poet Kris Marais, will be presenting his tour de force on “State Property” about SANDF conscripts before going to the National Arts Festival in July. For more info, please email maura.talbot@gmail.com. Crafters, bakers, home-made jams, confectionary, fresh organic veg all welcome! contact Barbara on Langridge.ba@gmail.com or via Facebook
Pinelands pre-school breeds success Pinelands Montessori Pre School, situated on Oude Molen Eco-Village, was founded 15 years ago by Karima Loghdey.
Oude Molen Eco-village is a member of the TRUP collaboration and closely works with OBSID and OCA and other partners. Karima started with three to four kids, with no facilities or classrooms after the old school closed down in 2002. Leon & Kim Hendricks, parents of Leigh Hendricks at the school in 2002 (18years old now and a graduate of the school) helped Karima acquire alternate premises at the & Smarter! Pinelands Catholic Church. The school subsequently moved to Pinelands North Primary School (for 10 years) and finally back to Oude Molen Eco Village in January 2016.
There are now 30 children,ranging from the ages of two to six years old. Karima said: “Many hundreds of children have passed through our hands over the 15 years, and we are proud of our many highly successful graduates who have gone on to achieve high academic honours throughout their schooling as well as matric. “For example Leigh Hendricks, the daughter of the wonderful parents who helped us to find premises, Huda Abrahams and Stella Hertantyo who matriculated last year with 7 A’s. “The school has five motivated teachers who are passionate about education and children. “The foundation we provide here really contributes to the success of our pupils in the academic world,” said Karima. Children learn through play at the Pinelands Montessori pre schooll
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Tel: 021 448 7134
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March 2017
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Obs residents are experienced noise warriors ObSeRVATORy has many issues but one gripe that seems to constantly rear it’s head is noise. Now usually, community structures such as the ObSID, OCA, law enforcement and even the police, can expect noise issues involving a resident and a loud pub, club or cafe. but what if your disturbance doesn’t come from the Lower Main Road party strip. What if it comes from your very own house? This is the exact problem the OCA and ObSID were recently faced with. It started with a resident contacting local leaders for help when the noise coming from the upstairs room in her house became unbearable. “My upstairs [room mates] are very rude and always play loud music in my sleeping time. I always feel disturbed by them... What should I do now? Should I complain to authorities or take revenge?” the complaint read. Immediately the complaint received a multitude of replies ranging from questions to describe the noise to consulting a neighbour. The many responses by residents, knowledgeable in the art of tackling Obs noise, did not encourage revenge. but it did show that there isn’t one fix to dealing with noise disturbances.
So then, what do you do if your “sleeping time” is disturbed by noise? Well if the array of responses is anything to go by, maybe we can jot down a quick list of what to do. Firstly, information is key. It will come in handy when reporting the problem. Information you may need to provide includes your address, are you the owner or tenant, are the people causing the noises the owner or tenant, who is your landlord? Keep a log of exactly when the noise takes place. Secondly, get to know the City’s bylaw regarding noise and disturbances. Download the by-law documents from the City’s website or contact the OCA or ObSID to clue you in. Keep the law enforcement’s number on speed dial. Should the noise be excessive and on-going, they’re the ones you need to call. Ask your neighbours, or other room mates, to vouch for you. Or better yet, get them to complain too! Other things you could try include earplugs, sleeping tablets or as one person suggested “a good joint is the way to go?!” Ultimately you have to realise that these processes can be long and tiresome. And while we can’t be expected to deal with such noise disturbances, it
Letters from the community - info@obslife.co.za
We want to hear from you
We would like to stay positive while knowing the problems. Please try to offer solutions which you yourself can help with, make happen or lead? ObSID, OCA, the City and all other ObS partners can only
do so much. Most of them are citizens and volunteers just like us , good folks, working hard. The real solutions will only come if we find a way to all work together. We need to get involved somehow, even in little ways.
Let’s take back our streets
From Observer, robins road hI Obslife! Welcome back! As a resident, I would like to plead for a ‘Residents’ Corner’ so that we too may contribute to the Rag. Crime seems to be increasing markedly at the moment. I also recently heard that a monthly Residents’ full-moon bicycle ride around the suburb was on the cards. When will it begin ? Since I arrived in Obs in 1990 I’ve seen a radically decreased presence of residents in our streets at night. These are our streets! Let’s take them back by getting out there. Keep it safe though and walk in groups. It’d be nice if our Obs teens would also contribute to ObsLife by sharing
their feelings on Obs related issues. We’re family! Let’s get together! bring on the FULL-MOON bIKe RIDe please !
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may be a better idea to just talk to your neighbours, room mates or that pub to keep it down. Nothing beats good old neighbourliness. If that doesn’t work, then maybe you should rehash those revenge ideas.
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