Peoples Post False Bay Edition 13 September 2011 by People's Post

E-mail: post@peoplespost.co.za

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Tel: 021 713 9440 Fax: 021 713 9481

SPRING IN THE AIR: The last winter sun set over the CBD on Wednesday proved to be a majes tic ending to the cold season – and a scin tillating promise of warmer days and golden tans. Photo: Hanrie Bosch

Far South crime on review DALEEN FOUCHÉ

N THE Far South, local station commanders are positive about the outcome of local crime statistics, but many residents still feel that crime remains a major concern. This year’s national crime statistics, released by national police commissioner Nathi Mthethwa on Thursday, saw a 6,5% drop nationally in the murder rate. Contact crimes, property related crime and crime detected as a result of police action saw a general reduction of 2,4%, which exceeded the target set by government. Figures were drawn from April 2010 to March 2011. But in the Far South property-related crime, such as vehicle theft, business burglary and housebreaking, remains a concern. The Simon’s Town precinct saw an increase in burglaries in residential premises from 236 last year

to 307 this financial year. In the Muizenberg precinct, however, burglaries dropped from 816 to 788. The Ocean View precinct remained almost unchanged in terms of residential burglaries, with 206 cases reported last year and 219 cases this year. Residential burglaries in the Fish Hoek precinct dropped slightly, with 357 cases last year and 337 cases this year, but the precinct experienced an increase in car thefts, from 84 cases in the last financial year to 109 cases this year. Mell Wainwright, Muizenberg Police Cluster chairperson, says any improvement in the crime statistics is great. However, he says the crime rate in South Africa is still too high. “Police are doing their best, but the community needs to get involved.” He says community members are the “eyes and ears” of the police and need to report any suspicious behaviour.

The Muizenberg Police Cluster includes the Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, Ocean View and Hout Bay precincts. Ocean View Police Station’s commander, Lieutenant Colonel Jacobus Augus, says the Ocean View police have been focusing on eradicating drugs within the Ocean View precinct, and that the arrests made reflect in the statistics. Drug-related crimes have gone up from 231 last year to 330 this year, reflecting a proactive approach from police, the commander says. But, Augus says, police still have a lot of work to do in terms of fighting the war on drugs. He says police are struggling to unmask drug suppliers, who he says are the real threat. The Ocean View police will keep focusing their efforts on eradicating drugs and illegal shebeens in their precinct, Augus says. He suggests that by addressing drugs and alcohol abuse, police are also addressing contact crimes

such as murder and assault, as well as property-related crime. Muizenberg Police Station’s commander, Colonel Phumla Mdlankomo, says she is “happy” with the work reflected in the crime statistics. She is proud of the decrease in the number of housebreakings – reported cases have dropped from 816 to 788. Mdlankomo says certain categories, such as robbery with aggravating circumstances, do need attention, but she is pleased with the general outcome. She agrees that by addressing liquor and drug abuse, police will also make headway in contact and property-related crimes. Muizenberg’s statistics also show an increased focus on drug-related crimes, with cases spiking from 269 last year to 357 this year. “Communities are fed up with drug-related crimes, and we will never disappoint our communities when they trust us with informa-

tion,” says Mdlankomo. Fish Hoek’s station commander, Lieutenant Colonel Nico Franken, says this year’s statistics show good work by his officers. Still, he believes the station can do better. Looking ahead, Franken says the station’s main focus will be on crimes like housebreaking, car theft and robbery. Captain David Malong, acting station commander for Simon's Town Police Station, says crime in Simon’s Town is generally low. Regardless, he likewise says that the Simon’s Town police will direct their attentions toward propertyrelated crimes like car theft and theft out of cars in the future. “We need to act on preventable crimes,” he says. •See page 2 for statistical tables of serious crimes; for a more detailed review, visit www.saps.gov.za.

GENERAL

Page 2 People’s Post False Bay

Tuesday 13 September 2011

A scandalous evaluation JOIN me in a game of spot the scandal.

Proudly South African wins gold P

ROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN won numerous awards this year at the prestigious annual Decorex SA, which took place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg. The five day event ran from Friday 5 to Tuesday 9 August, hosted over 700 high-end exhibitors and attracted some 53 000 visitors, including international buyers from America, Germany, Indonesia and China. Proudly South African invited some of its members to exhibit under the category called SA Handmade Collection, which is a programme of the Department of Trade and Industry to promote local crafters. Given the Proudly South African “Buy Local to Create Jobs” agenda, it was strategically fitting for Proudly South African to have a presence at this event and to showcase its commitment to its members and consumers. Proudly South African won the gold certificate in the category Best Individual Exhibitor, as well as a recognition award as part of the South African. Handmade Collection of Decorex SA 2011. A Proudly South African member company – Aaron’s Pin Thread Sculptures – also won a bronze award in the category Best Product. Dalene du Preez, Proudly South African’s executive manager for marketing and communications, says; “What was critical to exhibiting at the SA Handmade Collection event this year was Proudly South African’s creative flair for promoting locally produced, high quality products that reflected South Africa’s culture, look and feel.” Carol Mullany, owner of Glass Escapes and a proud member of Proudly SA, says: “From the moment we arrived at the Proudly South African stand at the SA Handmade Collection, we realised this was going to be a professional

show. “The impact of the stand itself took our breath away. It looked like it had jumped out of the pages of a top international magazine. This certainly was validated when Proudly South African was awarded the gold medal. “Congratulations all around; we were so proud. The stand alone looked like a piece of artwork.” Many Proudly SA members supported the event, which went a long way in showcasing the impressive crafts they have to offer to the local and international market. Proudly South African member companies who exhibited at the SA Handmade Collection at Decorex this year included: Glass Escapes, a home glasswear and jewellery supplier; Lisa Martin, a supplier of aluminium diaries and coasters; Aaron’s Pin Thread Sculpture, a pin thread jewellery and corporate gift supplier;Andy C Design, a supplier of homeware, jewellery and corporate gifts;Essay Gifts, a corporate gift, tea set and gift bag supplier;Essential Earth, a supplier of home furniture, and aluminium and ceramic tea sets; Asher House, a fabric-based supplier of albums, gift bags and greeting cards;The Craft Connection, a supplier of trophies and African jewellery; and Leather Legacy, a supplier of leather products such as ottomans, belts and shoes. Du Preez says: “Proudly South African created an impressive stand that caught the eye of the judges because of its originality and hospitable flair. It encapsulated the art of ubuntu by creating an inviting feel that was warm and engaging, allowing for professional business to take place.” The SA Handmade Collection event, launched in 2007, is an annual event that is part of Decorex SA, which has been running since 1994. It aims to promote locally produced products arts and crafts to the local and international business market.

The basic facts, as exposed recently by City Press, are that the government has spent R46 million this year on bling Cape mansions for cabinet ministers, their deputies and the Deputy Speaker of the House, former Cape Town mayor Nomaindia Mfeketo. The state paid R8 million for the Deputy Speaker’s house in the new suburb of Van Riebeeckshof in Bellville. The municipal valuation of the property is R1,7 million, but property experts say it is worth R7 million. Now you may think the scandal lies in paying R8 million to accommodate a former mayor best remembered for the problems she left behind rather than the ones she solved. Others would damn the Department of Public Works for a piece of shocking extravagance, but, given some of their recent police station deals, we should not be surprised. No, the real inner core of the scandal, folks, is the municipal valuation. This is the description of the Tuscan Villa that is about to be graced with Ms Mfeketo’s presence: The mansion has an air-conditioned bedroom, a designer kitchen with a stainless steel gas hob and plush dark wood finishes. There is an outdoor entertainment area with a stainless steel braai, a swimming pool and imposing steps leading to a terraced garden, and, wait for it, six garages. And all this, according to City Council valuers, is worth just R1,7 million. How could they get it so wrong? Municipal valuations are required to reflect the actual market price of property, and we know what that is because the Depart-

ment of Public Works coughed up R8 million for the residence. This shocking under-valuation means that past and present owners have been paying less than a quarter of the rates they should have been paying while you and I have to pay the full whack. It is grossly unfair. It contravenes the constitutional requirement for administrative justice. I wish I could say that this was some kind of corrupt exception or an isolated case of incompetence, but a professional valuer assures me that 30% of Cape Town properties are undervalued. Estate agents say municipal valuations don’t mean a thing. So 30% of homeowners are not paying their fair share of rates, and the rest of us are paying too much. The underlying problem with the present valuation system is that people complain when the valuation of their homes is too high, and the mistakes are corrected. When a house is undervalued, however, the owner shuts up and rejoices in a low rates account. When the City boasts about the low number of objections to the valuation roll, it is looking at the tip of the iceberg. The real problem is the growing number of undervalued properties that attract no complaints and are therefore never corrected. When a property worth R7 million or R8 million is valued at just R1,7 million in the municipality’s books, then something is desperately wrong. The only possible explanation that comes to mind is that the Council doesn’t know the house is there, and that the valuation is for the land only. But surely there were building plans and inspections. The situation cries out for investigation. The 70% of honest city ratepayers deserve no less. Perhaps we can get the Public Protector to take an interest.

YOUR LOCAL POLICE STATION’S CRIME STATISTICS FISH HOEK POLICE Category April 2009 to March 2010 April 2010 to March 2011 Murder 1 0 Sexual crime 10 14 Attempted murder 0 1 Assault with intent to 6 17 inflict grievous bodily harm Aggravated robbery 20 19 Business burglary 32 21 Housebreaking 357 337 Vehicle theft 84 109 Theft from vehicle 202 200 Carjacking 0 0 Drug-related crime 59 49 House robbery 5 7 Business robbery 4 1

OCEAN VIEW POLICE Category April 2009 to March 2010 April 2010 to March 2011 Murder 15 16 Sexual crime 56 57 Attempted murder 12 9 Assault with intent to 170 201 inflict grievous bodily harm Aggravated robbery 32 54 Business burglary 59 67 Housebreaking 206 219 Vehicle theft 22 15 Theft from vehicle 144 185 Carjacking 0 0 Drug-related crime 231 330 House robbery 4 3 Business robbery 4 9

MUIZENBERG POLICE Category April 2009 to March 2010 Murder 24 Sexual crime 78 Attempted murder 24 Assault with intent to inflict 173 grievous bodily harm Aggravated robbery 96 Business burglary 72 Housebreaking 816 Vehicle theft 170 Theft from vehicle 555 Carjacking 4 Drug-related crime 269 House robbery 6 Business robbery 5

April 2010 to March 2011 33 70 35 152 178 62 788 182 500 7 357 21 9

SIMON’S TOWN POLICE Category April 2009 to March 2010 Murder 1 Sexual crime 10 Attempted murder 2 Assault with intent to inflict 16 grievous bodily harm Aggravated robbery 8 Business burglary 12 Housebreaking 236 Vehicle theft 28 Theft from vehicle 143 Carjacking 3 Drug-related crime 14 House robbery 1 Business robbery 1

April 2010 to March 2011 0 11 0 19 9 8 307 25 112 0 8 3 1

We stand corrected

Grow your food in the suburbs

PEOPLE’S POST published two photos of the recent Spring Splash in last week’s edition. The caption incorrectly stated that Leon Taylor had won the category of best-

THE next meeting of the Cape Herb Group will take place on Saturday at 14:30 at Super Plants Nursery, Tokai-on-Main, Main Road, Tokai. Sam Adams, owner and director of Living

dressed man. The best-dressed man was actually Ken Budden. People’s Post apologise for the mistake.

Green, will deliver a presentation titled “Growing Food in the Suburbs”. Entrance is R10 for visitors and R5 for members. For more information call (021) 712-1898 or (021) 689-2807 after hours.

NEWS

Tuesday 13 September 2011

STEPPING UP: Three officers at Simon’s Town Police Station have been promoted from constable to sergeant. Seen here, brand new sergeants Elton Jacobs (left) and Mzwakhe Madikwa stand proudly with the station’s commanding officer, Captain Dav id Malong. Absent from the photo is Sergeant Chuma Nogemane. Photo: Supplied

People’s Post False Bay Page 3

NEW TEAM: A Community Policing Forum subforum election was held for Muizenberg’s Sector 3 at St James Primary School in Kalk Bay earlier this month. Approximately 40 residents of the sector, which comprises Lakeside, Marine Estate, Muizenberg, Kalk Bay and St James, attended the meeting, and a new committee was elected. Seen here are the new committee members, from left: Madni Davids (project coordinator), Bert Stafford (chairperson), Tony Trimmel (deputy chairperson), Aashique Newman, Constable Shaun Mostert (sector manager), Mymoena Poggen poel, Zaida Stanley, Kaylin Carolusen, Theresa Lewis and Geraldine Smith (secretary) Photo: Supplied

Big bust for police M

UIZENBERG police officers confiscated drugs worth R80 000 at a home in Fisherman’s Village, Capricorn Beach, on Sunday. The raid happened after police received information from the community and rushed to the scene. Officers searched the residence and came upon a haul of drugs concealed in a cupboard inside the house. The search yielded 320 grammes of tik, 26 grammes of unga (a mixture of heroin and dagga), 17 pieces of crack, and an undisclosed amount of cash. Two suspects, aged 23 and 24, were arrested in connection with the find, and

were detained at Muizenberg Police Station. The drugs have an estimated street value of R80 000. Colonel Phumla Mdlankomo, commander of Muizenberg Police Station, was extremely pleased with the success of the raid, and feels the confiscation will keep many people, “especially the young, from falling prey to these poisons – and by extension benefits our community greatly in the ongoing battle against drugs and abuse”. Mdlankomo furthermore appeals to the community to continue giving information to the police to make these successes possible.

Independent Electronic Security & Guarding Approved by

ADT, Chubb, YMA, Scarborough Security

We Install/Upgrade/Maintain Electronic security IN THE BAG: Seen here with the confiscat ed drugs is Constable Thandisizwe Kili. Photo: Supplied

Toy gun robbers nabbed THE Ocean View police arrested six suspects aged between 18 and 25 years on Thursday evening after a business robbery that took place at a Somalian shop in Skina Road, Masiphumelele. Warrant Officer Nkosikho Mzuku, spokesperson for the Ocean View police, says rob-

bers entered the shop, pointed a gun at the owner, and made off with cash, two Samsung cellphones, airtime vouchers and a DVD player. Acting quickly, the police traced the suspects and recovered the stolen goods – as well as a toy gun, which had been used in the robbery.

•Ocean View officers arrested five suspects after a hijacking in Pokela Road, Masiphumelele, earlier this month. Explaining the case, Mzuku says two Navy officers had gone to Masiphumelele to buy alcohol in the early hours of the morning. Unable to find an

Alarms/Outdoor beams/ Intercoms/CCTV/Gate motors/ Locksmith

Tel / Fax: 782-2661 e-mail: security@mach1.co.za • PSIRA: 1346048

open liquor outlet, the pair asked a group of men for directions. This turned out to be a bad idea – the young men forced the officers from their car, robbed them of their possessions, and drove off. Five suspects, aged between 19 and 22, have been arrested; one is still at large. All the suspects appeared before the Simon’s Town Magistrate’s Court yesterday (Monday). 1 Security Solution

GENERAL

Page 4 People’s Post False Bay

Tuesday 13 September 2011

GHOST TOWN: Longbeach Mall was eerily empty yesterday after it was closed for fire safety viola tions. Photo: Chad Chapman

Local mall closed until further notice DALEEN FOCHÉ

ONGBEACH MALL was evacuated and closed yesterday (Monday) morning at 10:00 after the mall management failed to address several problems identified with the centre’s fire prevention equipment. Theo Layne, station commander at the Fire and Rescue Command and Control Centre, says the department visited the mall two weeks ago and found its fire safety systems were not up to scratch. Layne says the City found several problems with the mall’s fire detection system: The detectors were not linked to the alarm, and there was also a faulty panel indicator on the fire alarm system. Layne adds that the PA system was found not to be working, and the fire siren was also out of order. Yesterday, when fire officials found the issues had not been resolved, they shut down operations with immediate effect. Tenants were given very little time to close their shops and leave; Harold Kolnik, owner of Jawits Properties South Peninsula, which rents shop space at Longbeach Mall, says people could be seen outside finishing up on interrupted haircuts. Kolnik says although it was mall manage-

ment’s responsibility to rectify the problems, he feels the faults found were too “arbitrary” for such “heavy handed” measures. He says this closure will translate into big income losses, and could be detrimental for some businesses. Shop owners did not get an opportunity to reroute calls, he adds, and expresses concern that clients will not be able to get in touch with businesses. Layne, however, says the mall had to be closed to ensure the safety of tenants and shoppers; he assures that tenants will be allowed to finalise business matters. Some were concerned about the animals in pet shops, but Layne says shop owners may remove animals and perishable goods. No shop, however, will be allowed to continue to do business until the mall is fire compliant. Layne says that once it is confirmed that Longbeach Mall is fire compliant, it will be reopened. Stefan Roodt, manager of Longbeach Mall, says management is doing everything in its power to address the concerns as soon as possible. Maynard Mall in Wynberg was also asked to close on 18 August for fire safety reasons. The mall was closed for a week before it was declared compliant.

SUNBURST: The rays of the sun shoulder past a bank of clouds on a cold spring morning off the False Bay coastline. Photo: Gwen Rea

Release the artist within THE Fish Hoek Art Society’s next workshop takes place today (Tuesday) at 14:00 in the False Bay Hospital hall. Hosted by Mavis Foale, the workshop will focus on colour mixing and abstract works. All paint and paper will be supplied at a cost

of R10 per person. Visitors are most welcome. The society’s next “Paint-Out” takes place at Imhof Farm at 09:30 next Tuesday. Call Iain Lamond for details on (021) 782-5353.

WELCOME: A group of students and teachers from Wilmary Christian School in Limpopo dropped in to Fish Hoek while on a marine and geography tour of Cape Town last week. After an educational tour of the old Fish Hoek Farm and the “Great Whalery” in Sunny cove, they stopped by the beach for a little cloudcovered fun – and to pose for a group shot with Mathee Eichel of the Fish Hoek Galley restaurant. Photo: Supplied

19th century tragedies retold GOLDEN DAY: This captivating sunset was snapped in Capri late last month. Photo: Renate Hohmann

THE Muizenberg Historical Society invites you to a talk on one of the greatest maritime tragedies of the 19th century on Thursday 22 September at 17:30 for 18:15 at The Stables, Het Posthuys, Muizenberg. Martin Fine will tell the story of the HMS Birkenhead, which struck an uncharted rock off Danger Point on the

coast of South Africa in February 1852; 445 of the 638 people on board perished, and the legend of the Birkenhead Drill was born. Drinks and snacks will be served. Tickets cost R20. RSVP to George Hill at music@lindbergh-arts.co.za alternatively phone (021) 788-5542.

End in sight for weed woes MARINA DA GAMA residents have been asked to be patient with the overgrowth of pondweed in the Zandvlei estuary. The machine used to clear the water weed was sent in for its first overhaul in 20 years in May, and harvesting is scheduled to start at the end of the month. In the meantime, the City of Cape Town’s Biodiversity Management branch says it is doing its best to clear up badly clogged canals in Marina Da Gama, and apologises for the wait. A City Parks machine may be brought in to help, and staff are already trying to re-

move some of the smelly plant debris that has collected in blind-ending canals. The “sulphurous smell” released by the rotting plants may be unpleasant, but the plants don’t pose a health risk, the City assures. The local harvester, once its overhaul has been finished, will work seven days a week to clear the backlog, and the City promises to have the dredged weed taken from the banks as soon as possible. For more information on the City’s nature reserves, visit www.capetown.gov.za/naturereserves.

NEWS

Tuesday 13 September 2011

People’s Post False Bay Page 5

Kommetjie to vote on SRA DALEEN FOUCHÉ

SOME Kommetjie residents and neighbourhood watch members are proposing a Special Ratings Area (SRA) as a “last resort” to improve safety in the seaside village. Alastair Mackie, chairperson of the Kommetjie SRA steering committee, says that after three years of trying to secure the village using various methods, he feels the SRA is the only sustainable way to tackle crime. Previously, Kommetjie residents and Komwatch – the local neighbourhood watch – approached the provincial police with a view to establishing Kommetjie as a separate sector within the Ocean View precinct. This is because, as written in the SRA business plan, they feel the service provided by the Ocean View police is “inadequate” for Kommetjie as the area must share resources with Ocean View and Masiphumelele, whose “high and serious” levels of crime consume most of the station’s resources. Mackie says the attempt to split Kommetjie off into a separate sector failed, and residents started looking at other solutions to secure the village. Mackie says that while Komwatch has helped to keep crime down, the solution is

not sustainable because it relies on residents donating money and time on a volunteer basis. By charging property owners additional rates, an SRA, managed by a non-profit organisation, offers various “top-up” services to bolster council’s work. In Kommetjie, the SRA would focus mainly on security. According to the business plan and budget presented to Kommetjie homeowners late last month, the SRA would provide three 24-hour bicycle security patrols and one 24-hour vehicle patrol. The installation of 16 CCTV cameras is also planned in strategic spots throughout Kommetjie. Mackie says 11% of the SRA budget will fund an environmental and social upliftment programme, which covering additional recycling, an early warning system for when baboons enter the village, and the removal of invasive alien plants. “We are trying to keep the SRA budget small and affordable for homeowners,” he says, adding that after a few misconceptions about SRAs were addressed at the meeting, the majority of homeowners reacted “positively” toward the proposal. “We will, however, have to wait for all the votes on the SRA to determine the majority’s point of view on the matter,” says Mackie.

The proposed SRA would cover the entire Kommetjie, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean in the northwest, Klein Slangkop Lighthouse in the southwest, the outer border of the Table Mountain National Park in the southeast, and the outer border of Imhoff’s Gift Farm in the northeast. The area will include the Kommetjie Caravan Park, but excludes Klein Slangkop Estate, which is private property. Mackie says homeowners’ votes are due at the end of the month. “If a total of 60% of homeowners vote yes for the SRA, the proposal will be submitted to council.” This will be followed by a two month period to allow for objections. Eddie Scott, manager for the City’s Inter-Services Liaison and Finance Directorate, says the minimum number of votes to secure an SRA has gone up from 50% plus one to 60% to ensure that the vote more accurately reflects the majority’s feelings. If City approves the application, the SRA will be implemented in June 2012. • The proposed Capri SRA was not approved by full council in May this year. Scott says the steering committee for the Capri SRA has until the end of December to resubmit the application after dealing with council’s reasons for rejecting the proposal.

IN THE AIR: Imhoff Waldorf School ushered in a new season of growth and warmth with its annual spring fair, held at Imhoff Farm at the beginning of the month. Guests browsed innumerable craft stalls and marvelled at a castle made of match boxes while the Ocean View Youth Orchestra, accompanied by the talents of the eMzantsi brass band and puppeteers, kept everybody entertained. Seen here, Tanith O’Henley shows Pia Klopfer and Seren Briant how to weave a crown of flowers. Photo: Supplied

Third time’s the charm HAVING FAILED two driving tests already, a Muizenberg man thought he could take a shortcut and just buy his driver’s licence – but his attempt at bribery bought him a criminal investigation instead. Traffic officers arrested the man at the beginning of the month, after his third abortive driving test at the Ottery Driving Licence Testing Centre. When the interior inspection of the car had started, the man tried to palm a R1 000 “gift” to his examiner, who turned him down. Not to be dissuaded,

the man tried a few more times before getting on with the test. He failed again before even getting out of the testing yard. Heedless, the flunked driver left his bribe on the dashboard, and this time the examiner did pick it up – for it was now evidence – then escorted the man to the traffic officers stationed at the centre. A 47-year-old man from Muizenberg has appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court, but this paper could not establish the state of his case at the time of going to print.

Page 6 People’s Post False Bay

GENERAL

Tuesday 13 September 2011

An age of miracles ANDRE BAKKES

N the 27th day of the holy month of Ramadan, eight people gathered around a rustic stable in Philippi to witness the rarest of sights – the birth of healthy twin foals. First, the world was a brown filly richer, and then witnesses were left speechless when a white palomino colt followed suit. The general consensus online is that, when it comes to horses, 1 in 10 000 pregnancies are twins – and only nine percent of those are carried to term. An even smaller number are actually born healthy, so the fact that this “next generation” is now frolicking in the fields of Zandvlei Farm fills owner Moosa Ockards with pride. “It was a bright, starry evening, and when the foals were born we were also glowing,” he smiles. Ockards had been attending a religious event that night, but he was constantly on his cellphone, giving advice to those who were delivering the young horses. Nobody had suspected that the mare, Popplin, had been carrying twins, so when Ockards heard there was another little miracle on the stable floor, he was very excited. But his vast equine experience told him that this latest development would need all the accumulated knowledge he has garnered over the decades, since a twin pregnancy is considered to be very dangerous for the mare and her offspring. According to horseadvice.com’s Robert Oglesby, a twin pregnancy in horses is generally bad news. “The uterus has a hard time supporting twins,” says Oglesby. “Foals are often born dead or weak, and other complications in-

clude retained placenta, delayed recovery of the uterus, decreased rate of settling for the next two years, and potentially permanent damage to the mare’s reproductive tract.” In most cases of live births, either one or both foals don’t survive beyond two weeks. People’s Post visited the farm last Thursday, and saw that each of the adorable foals was, well, as healthy as a horse. They were exploring the tiny stable and liaising with their vigilant mom on a regular basis. On one occasion the brown filly chewed on this journalist’s camera strap, which drew an authoritative and abrupt neighing from the ever-vigilant Popplin. On whether the presently unnamed twins and their mother will suffer any delayed health problems, Ockards just says, “We will have to see what God has in store for them.” Ockards owns several of the 23 horses on the farm, and most of these are used as carthorses. Ockards learned everything he knows about the animals from his father, and he says the last time he heard of twins being born was in the late 1970s. Diana Truter and all the other staff of the Carthorse Protection Agency (CHPA) were just as amazed at Popplin’s feat. “I’ve been working with horses almost my entire life, and this is the first time that I have seen twins born healthy,” says a glowing Truter. The most difficult and dangerous time for the mare and foals has passed, but latent health issues might still put a damper on celebrations. Be that as it may, Truter is confident that Ockards’ vast experience and “family secrets” will see them through. He laughs when asked to reveal some of these secrets. “Well, one of the reasons some foals die dur-

DOUBLE GIFT: Popplin, the proudest of mares, looks over her twin foals standing beside Herman Africa (front) and owner Moosa Ockards. Photo: Andre Bakkes ing birth is because their tongues are still stuck to the inside of the mouth. That’s when one can put a little milk on one’s finger and feed the youngsters.” The first few sips of mother’s milk are the most important in a foal’s life, since it contains a concentrated amount of nutrients, antibodies and immune system boosters. “I think the fact that this happened in Ramadan is a blessing for Moosa,” Truter says, “and I think he deserves that blessing, since he has helped so many other people in his life.

“In fact, if all the carthorse owners were as diligent as Moosa, the role of the CHPA would be severely diminished.” The CHPA is based in northern suburbs of Epping, but it keeps an eye over most of the carthorses in the Southern Peninsula as well. Ockards will soon give names to the little miracles, and then the CHPA will set up a Facebook page to keep the public up to date with how these statistical oddities are enriching the lives of those who have helped them to thrive in a fascinating world.

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NEWS

Tuesday 13 September 2011

People’s Post False Bay Page 7

Comic casts its creative net afar DALEEN FOUCHÉ

OET, Brak and John, beloved characters of People’s Post comic Treknet, will soon journey to far off lands in Scandinavia, after the creative duo behind the idea were approached by a marketing company about a month ago. A Norwegian syndication company approached Treknet creators Dave Gomersall and Gavin Thompson with a view to marketing, distributing and selling the local comic to newspapers and magazines in Scandavian counties. From Treknet’s humble beginnings at People’s Post to its journey to the northernmost parts of Europe, this comic has entertained and delighted readers young and old for six years. Gomersall, who met with People’s Post to talk about the beginnings of the cartoon, says the first meeting with former People’s Post editor Annelien Dean almost six years ago was purely accidental. The duo were on their way to present their work to another newspaper when they walked into the wrong office and bumped into Dean. They showed her their work, and the rest is history. Although Dean loved their work, she asked for more localised content that would be more appropriate for the pages

of a community newspaper. Gomersall, who is an experienced skipper, did not have to look far for local inspiration – his previous encounters with treknet fishermen gave them a great backdrop for visual storytelling. Treknet has since featured in several newspapers and magazines on both local and abroad. Titles include Die Son, the Port Elizabeth Herald, the Natal Witness, the Johannesburg Star, Pretoria News, a Namibian publication and the Big Issue. Last year, Treknet had a double page spread in a magazine based in Switzerland, and Gomersall believes this is where the syndication company spotted their work. Gomersall quips that his ancestry can be traced back to Scandinavia, which is perhaps why the northern Europeans find the comic appealing. Even though Treknet has a Cape Town flavour, its appeal and message are universal, he adds. “Why do South Africans enjoy Hägar the Horrible when the setting is Viking times?” he asks. While Gomersall is responsible for conceptualising and words, Thompson, who is also editorial cartoonist for People’s Post, focuses on the artwork. “Thompson always gives massive encouragement,” says Gomersall. “The two work in separate offices and communicate through Skype. Gomersall says he has tremendous fun with all the Treknet characters, and especially enjoys the sea creatures. Here’s hoping the fishermen frolics will haul in a huge catch of Scandinavian fans.

DYNAMIC DUO: Dave Gomersall (left) and Gavin Thompson

Photo: Archive

CASTING OFF: The first Treknet strip to appear in People’s Post.

Image: Archive

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GENERAL

Page 8 People’s Post False Bay

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Your friends are waiting at the SPCA ANDRE BAKKES

“HOMELESS dogs at the SPCA are not damaged goods, but normal, happy animals waiting to be someone’s best friend for life,” say the Cape of Good Hope (CoGH) SPCA and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, who’ve declared September as Dog Adoption Month with their new “No Fun Without Your Best Friend” campaign. The campaign aims to highlight that adopting is not just good for the dog, but for the new owner too – and that the SPCA adoption process is quick, simple and good value, with lots of extra benefits. There are numerous great reasons to adopt a healthy dog. They are, in fact, waiting for you! For more information on adopting a “best friend” from the CoGh SPCA visit www.spca-ct.co.za or call (021) 700-4140/4146. And who could say “no” to these cuties?

HI everyone! I was told to introduce myself to you lovely people! Well! My name is Goldie and I love balls! And exclamation marks! Excuse me? Oh, I was just told that I should tone it down a bit... Sorry... OK, I’m about one year old, a cross between a corgi and a labrador, and I’m looking for a new ball-thrower. Here at the SPCA my hosts throw balls, which I recover as quickly as I can, but they always stop just when I’m getting into it! Perhaps I should chase the ball a little slower... There’s only one thing I love more than a tennis ball, and that’s humans. One is useless without the other! Humans also feed me, of course, which I love – obviously! One and a half months ago (that’s almost 10 in dog

OH, how I yearn for a human companion... God made me with too much love, so I need someone to share it with. I once had owners, but they wouldn’t let me into the house – no matter how much I whimpered and cried. I must’ve got on their nerves, because they left me at this place and never came back. Now no-one calls me theirs, which makes me sad. My name is Sheena, a cross between a German shepherd and something else – most probably a dog. So yes, I might be a little big, but I can’t understand why I’m not allowed inside a house. Is there anything better than curl-

ing up tightly next to my owner on a comfortable warm bed? Perhaps it is wrong to cuddle, but why does it feel so good? Would you like to sit outside, for what seems like forever, in the cold dark night? No, I didn’t think so. I hope you’re not upset with me... I just want you to be happy. Please adopt me. I’m neutered, de-wormed, microchipped and very, very affectionate. I’ve been in the SPCA for two months and it’s not bad at all, but I would love a home of my own (preferably where other dogs don’t bark all night). It’s very difficult to sleep while your next door neighbour thinks barking brings back the

LOOK, I’d be lying if I said I don’t want to be adopted. Sure, I like helping the other dogs with advice or confuse them with a few well-thought out puns, but I have an instinctive desire to be owned (while keeping my identity, of course). I have a preposterously cute name – Suzie Q – and am two years old. The “Q” in my name could stand for “quotient”, but let me not bore you with abbreviated intricacies. When my four-legged friends in the SPCA want to pontificate about existence, they come to me. People think it’s

noisy when they walk through the kennels, what with hundreds of dogs barking at the same time. Ninety of those barking dogs are actually talking to me at the same time. My paws are full and my anecdotes are nearly all used up, so I wouldn’t mind it if a human with half a brain adopted me. I would ideally prefer my new owner to be smarter than me, but I’m in no position to bargain. Don’t get me wrong, I love it here. Since I’m a mongrel (ugly word, I know, but it’s better than “pavement special”), I can asso-

Shape your world GET tips from sports science expert professor Tim Noakes and other leading dieticians and fitness trainers during the free SHAPE magazine Health and Wellness Workshops at the Cape Town Look and Feel Good Expo, taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) from 16 to 18 September. This expo, now in its second year in the Mother City, is a must for all those who are eager to embrace a healthier, more vital and fulfilled lifestyle. It features a spectrum of interactive exhibits, as well as the opportunity to try out various types of dance and yoga, as well as laughter therapy, fitness equipment, spa treat-

ments, makeovers, organic produce and much more. The free Shape magazine Health and Wellness Workshops will take place daily on the hour, between 10:00 and 15:00. Visitors can also pop into the Clicks Health Zone for a free mini-health assessment. To register for the free Shape Health and Wellness Workshops, visit www.ifeelgood.co.za and go to “Plan your day”. Professor Tim Noakes will only be speaking on Friday, so book your seats early. Check out IFeelGoodExpo on Facebook and Twitter, and watch a selection of videos on the Look and Feel Good Expo’s dedicated YouTube Channel.

months!) I booked myself into the SPCA after exploring the streets of Cape Town. I was a little disappointed with the great outdoors, because there are hardly any balls out there. Balls! Did someone just say balls? Oh, no, it was just me. Sorry if I seem a little obsessed... I hope you’re not mad? Please, please adopt me – especially if you need a loyal friend to retrieve round objects!

sun. Also, I think he’s got a crush on me and his breath smells.

ciate with all my friends. They will be devastated if I leave them, but my work here is done.

Share your lucky glimpse TO promote whale watching in and around Cape Town and the South Peninsula, A Whale of a Heritage Route is asking sharpeyed nature lovers to SMS any whale sighting they make to 079 391 2105. The sighting will be recorded on one of three logs that cover activity in False Bay and the Western seaboard. For more information visit www.awhaleofaheritageroute.co.za.

Book your stall A CRAFT day will be held by Milnerton High School in conjunction with its annual Old Boys’ Rugby Tournament on Saturday 1 October from 09:00 until 17:00. To book a craft stall at R200, or a corporate stall at R1 000, contact Lara on 082 417 6610 or email kawalsky@mweb.co.za.

GREETINGS interesting bipeds. My name is Boomer and I’m a four-year-old cross maltese. Haha! No, I’m not really cross. It just means I’m a cross between 2 or 18 malteses. I love, love, LOVE to bounce! Here, there and... Er... Yes... Just hold on for one second. Sorry about that! I thought I saw a green worm. Have you ever seen one of those? It turned out to be a blade of grass. Where was I? Oh yes! Bouncing! Bounding! Exploring! I’m fascinated by absolutely everything and my curiosity knows no bounds. Sometimes I’m misunderstood, because people think I’m not interested in anything but everything. They will call me over and I will just keep on sniffing. Sorry about that. But have you smelled that piece of wood? Wow! I mean, Wow! It’s all woody. I love wood. And worms. My previous owners couldn’t afford me any more and gave me to the SPCA about two months ago. Since then I’ve smelled more than I can remember! My friends tell me I should

focus on one thing at a time, but you cannot teach a tree to bark. Or can you? Oh! I knew it was a worm! Right there! And it is green! Who would’ve thunk it? A green worm! Now I’ve seen and smelled everything! Where was I? Oh yes. If you have a garden with lots of stuff then I beg you to take me in. I’ve been here for two months and have now smelled everything...

HI, my name is Little Kim. I like that name, because I’m little... I’m just a tiny dog in a big, big world, and it goes without saying that I need someone to look after me. There are precious few laps I can sit on in the SPCA. Once a day someone will offer me their lap for a while, but, oh, how I would love a lap I could sit on permanently... That would be like dog heaven. I sometimes cry when I think of my previous owner’s soft lap, but she couldn’t afford me any more. I’ve been here for almost three months now and every day my life is lap-less I die a little on the inside. As a cross terrier, people think I like to run a lot, but I don’t see the point in that. The monotonous concept of running doesn’t come close to the infinite possibilities of lying on a lap. I get very lonely here, and when it rains, the deafening roof scares me.

As with all the dogs at the SPCA, I’m vaccinated and sterilised, and even boast a microchip in case I run away. Run away? Me? Never ever, ever! Unless it’s from a nasty dog. I believe there is an elderly couple in Cape Town who would love to cuddle me every day. I promise I will be the bestest of friends ever! If there’s a dog-less lap out there then I’m yours. Please let me be yours...

SSSSPRING: Snakes are waking up from their winter naps, warns Shaun MacLeod, coordinator of the Snake Catch and Res cue Volunteer Team. The creatures are com ing out of hibernation, and MacLeod says while there is no cause for alarm, it’s best to be watchful while spring cleaning and working in unruly gardens. Snakes will avoid con frontation whenever they can, and won’t at tack unless threatened or provoked, MacLeod says – so if you spot a grumpy snake, let him deal with its three monthold morning breath. Call Shaun Ma cLeod on 082 532 5033.Photo: Supplied

NEWS

Tuesday 13 September 2011

People’s Post False Bay Page 9

PENSIVE: A penguin stares into the ocean deep in thought.Pho to: Andre Botha

Prepare for the penguin gala HE countdown to the South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds’ (SANCCOB) 11th gala auction dinner has begun, and organisers say it is time to book your seat. The gala auction dinner, which takes place from 17:00 on Saturday 8 October at Blue Horizon in Redhill Road, aims to raise funds for SANCCOB’s mission to conserve African

penguins. “This glittering event, hosted by Boulders Beach Lodge and Restaurant, will be presented by glamorous conservation couple Michelle and Riaan Garforth-Venter, and will take guests through an evening of fine dining and worthwhile fundraising,” organisers say. Tickets cost R395 per person. For bookings or more information, contact Marlei Martins on (021) 5576155 or at info@sanccob.co.za.

PICTURE PERFECT: This series of photos, promoting local business and cele brating Kalk Bay’s past and present, was put up last week along Kalk Bay Main Road to make the village experience pleasant and safe for both motor ists and pedestrians during the road’s upgrade. Marking one of the first initia tives taken by the Kalk Bay Business Association to work with the City of Cape Town to make the area more friendly during the road maintenance (“Road to better business”, People’s Post, 6 September), the lane of imagery shows the City (which printed the posters) and the roadworks contractor (which put them up and boarded off the pavement), to be as good as their word. Photo: Daleen Fouché

Support the supporters ST JOHN’S, which offers a range of healthcare services to those in need, will hold a street collection to raise funds in and around Fish Hoek on Saturday. The non-profit organisation is struggling with funds – to the point that it can no longer afford to offer the services of a nursing sister. “The decision was purely financial,” says St John’s manager Heather Baker of the cut. “Donors were unfortunately not forthcoming, and the decision was made for the greater good of the centre.” The centre still provides first aid and home-based care training, and lends mobility aids – like walkers

and wheelchairs – to people unable to afford these. It also runs an eye clinic that provides eye tests and spectacles to people without medical aids, and a seniors’ clinic, where elders can find help with things like having their toenails clipped. As if that weren’t enough, a commissioner of oaths is also available through St John’s. The centre also sells first aid kits, and has a small charity shop selling bric-a-brac, clothing and books. For further information, contact Baker on (021) 7823306, fax (021) 782-1793 or email heather.baker@stjohn.org.za.

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LEADER

Page 10 People’s Post False Bay

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Right to life FIVE YEARS have passed since the brutal murder of a young Khayelitsha woman, allegedly slain because of her sexuality. Zoliswa Nkonyana was just 19 when she was clubbed, kicked and beaten to death in February 2006. Nine men were charged with her murder, and last week two of them were set free – because the State did not have enough evidence to prove its case. The remaining seven continue to face murder charges. Throughout the trial, which thus far has had more than 30 postponements, calls were made for South Africa to do more to protect lesbians from violence. Sadly, none of these calls could stem the tide of homophobia, and recently, the decomposed body of a 21-year-old woman was found in a bin in Nyanga. She was allegedly killed because she was a “tomboy” who had rejected the sexual advances of a man who was her friend, now suspected of being her killer. While much is frowned on in South Africa, more is tolerated; and the Constitution affords us many rights, such as rights to termination of pregnancy and freedom of expression. Zoliswa was denied the most basic right – her right to life and freedom to live out her days as she wished. Her life was taken by ignorant, narrow-minded, murderous thugs, who directed their self-hatred outward. While it is impossible to monitor homophobia, the State and justice system can strike an indelible blow against this by imposing the harshest laws and sentences. At the foundation of this should be a system that guarantees that enough evidence is gathered to successfully prosecute and convict those guilty of homophobic crimes. This country cannot tolerate persecution, bigotry or any hate-fuelled crimes. Destructive emotions have no place in a society that should place atop of its agenda reconciliation and unity.

Your SMSes Please bring local back THE Simon’s Town Civic Association (STCA), along with other local community organisations, was appalled to learn that the new tender for recycling in our area has been awarded to a contractor operating from Kraaifontein with no locally based input. Over the past years greater Simon’s Town and Glencairn areas have been served by False Bay Recycling, a local contractor who has worked with the previous City tender-holder, WasteControl. In 2008 False Bay Recycling started a recycling programme in Simon’s Town before the City provided one. Working as part of the City’s programme over the past years, it now employs 25 local people from Masiphumelele who would otherwise be out of work, and provides an outstandingly efficient service. We urge the City to re-look at including the local recycling business, False Bay

Where is Al? DOES anyone know what happened to Al, who used to sit in his wheelchair next to the post office on the Main Road in Fish Hoek? JOEY WILSON Fish Hoek

Recycling, in the new contract. False Bay Recycling have demonstrated competence, and are locally based, employing local people. They already have the necessary equipment and local business links for processing waste in our area which means less to transport and thus a considerable reduction in the carbon footprint associated with the recycling process. We believe that our City should be doing all in its power to support local job creation, to foster BEE entrepreneurs, to reward excellent service, and to reduce the carbon footprint of all its activities. Ratepayers in Glencairn and Simon’s Town urge the City to take all these factors into account and utilise our rates to continue the excellent service provided by a successful local operation. DR LESLEY SHACKLETON Vice chairperson of the STCA

In response . I shall not be using South City Glass. The driver clearly gave the mother a fright and an apology was in order. Jane McArthur . Good for Muizenberg community spirit! Wish we had people like them in Fish Hoek. . In response to the photos published on the front page last week, it’s great to see wildlife on the front page but the captions are terribly ignorant. Rather educate the people on the harmful effects of littering. John . What a pretty picture of that young baboon! I love it! When I was a young boy there were so tame we played with them. Look, he is checking out the SMS page! Barries . To all the people complaining about barking dogs, please rather call law enforcement for the vagrants and possible criminals about to break into your houses. . Why can they not create jobs and give people work? Give them training to control the dogs and fine the owners. . Who is in charge of making the laws about dogs without leashes on the beaches? Nothing is being done. Just a thought . On Wednesday 4 September, I and many other commuters waited impatiently as

there were no trains in sight on our station. At 07:45, someone finally announced over the PA system that a train from Cape Town would leave on platform three. She sounded like she had a hot potato in her mouth. There was no train in sight, and even the Simon’s Town train was cancelled. I, for one, use the train only on Wednesdays, when I go to St James. I feel so sorry for the people who have to use this service daily. . Archbishop Tutu can start by collecting money from his rich and famous guest who will attend his 80th birthday bash that’s not meant for the poor. From poorest of the poor, who is black like you. God bless. . In terms of gas prices, both BP and Mica adhere to government guidelines, but the other gas shops add on R35, claiming it’s a refill charge. This is wrong and a rip off. They should stock the 9kg bottle like the other shops. VE . The 8 and 16 gig branded flash drives which are being sold cheaply by street vendors look like the genuine article – but is it? . I have spotted a driving school jump two very red traffic lights for the second time

in two weeks. Once a learner driver was driving. Jay . Beware of cellphone networks’ “cheap” contracts on fancy mobiles. Read the fine print with regard to terms and conditions carefully to make sure you fully understand the packages. John, Lansdowne . Has Nakhlistan ever thought of feeding the poor all year round? I would like to know whether they only feed Muslims or all spectrums of our rainbow nation? Damocles Please help . Could someone please help me find Dolpha Roopa and Leann Hendricks? Call Carmen on (021) 706-8506. . I am a female and would like to cut gents’ and boys’ hair. If there is anyone who could help me with a few lessons, I will really appreciate it. I will come with my own machine. Please contact me on 073 028 6696. . I have saved a small amount of money to start a small business. Can someone please match that amount so I can get started? Unemployed, City Bowl . My son wants to join the defence force. Can anyone help? Where must he go?

LETTERS

Tuesday 13 September 2011

People’s Post False Bay Page 11

Masiphumelele is too full

A real dog walking debacle I READ with interest the response of Merle Collins of Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) to the letter of Roy Phillips (“Give my dog its own permit”, People’s Post, 16 August). Phillips suggested that each dog should have its own permit for walking on its local beach, irrespective of who the walker is, if the walker lives in Scarborough. I believe the requirement of a permit and a Green Card for each member of a family who would take the family dog for a walk on the beach does not fairly consider the realities of people’s daily lives in a village which borders the TMNP, but is not part of it. Were the alternatives for ordinary people assessed when deciding how to implement this “levy” on local residents? The only open spaces for dog-walking in and around the village are to be found on the TMNP mountains or the beach. Collins compares this permit with that required for using a bicycle or paraglider on TMNP property. While each member of a family living on one premises is allowed to own their own bicycle or paraglider, I believe a family is unlikely to own a dog for each member. The law limits this, too. Therefore, it was reasonable to presume that the same dog would have different family members accompanying it to the beach at various times. A fairer option might be to offer an affordable group permit and group Green Card for all people who walk a specific dog, with all walkers being signatories to the same documents. Was it noted that most residents walk their dogs on the beach and not the mountain? Perhaps an exemption for residents of the village could have been granted for walking their dogs on the beach, even if in a demarcated section of the beach. Collins alludes to the permit having legal implications regarding the rules and regulations of the TMNP. Does it follow that a teenager will not be allowed to buy a permit and Green Card and, hence, will not be allowed to walk the family dog on Scarborough beach? Is there to be an age restriction against a young person pursuing expected activities with their dog in their environs? Whether walking with a permit or not, a dog’s impact and that of its walker on the beach, cited as the motivation for these multiple permits, cannot be diligently monitored unless a controlling official is present from sunrise to sunset.

Is this likely? And, if so, are accompanied dog owners more likely to be soft targets? Because, in truth, what likely steps would be followed for unaccompanied dogs on the beach? While TMNP might have taken on the management of our beach, they should remember that it is an integral part of a community, and not part of a Nature Reserve where dogs would not be allowed to reside at all. While we are already prisoners in our homes, thanks to the baboons, it seems that dog-owning families will be further restricted in their village, unless they cough up over and over. MARIA LIEBENBERG Scarborough Merle Collins, spokesperson for Table Mountain National Parks, responds: In 2002 the then Cape Peninsula National Park drafted an Environmental Management Programme (EMP) for walkers accompanied by dogs. This document was finalised in May 2002, with extensive input from the public and, notably, the Friends of the Dog Walkers. Section 6 of the EMP states that: “This is considered a bonding ‘contractual’ document between Park Management and dog walkers to facilitate responsible dog walking in the Park.” The EMP is still in place, and its status has not changed. It therefore requires dog walkers to abide by the code of conduct outlined in the EMP. The code of conduct relies heavily on self regulation by dog walkers. The same EMP makes it clear that a dog walker must be in a possession of a valid permit. Permits are not transferable because each dog walker has to sign a code of conduct. Permit prices are subjected to change and to restructuring based on both the environmental and operational impacts in the designated dog-walking areas. It is acknowledged that the TMNP is a unique National Park used by a variety of recreationists and tourists for different activities. Local interests, as well as tourist needs and expectations, must be considered, and the impacts of the different users on the environment must be assessed and minimised. This is precisely the purpose of the Recreational EMPs. Dog walking is but one of the activities conducted in the Park, and cannot be allowed to take place to the detriment of the environment or other Park users. The EMP is available on www.sanparks.co.za.

The logic of lemmings IF everyone jumped off Chapman’s Peak, would you follow (“Everybody does it...”, People’s Post letters, 6 September)? I stick to the speed limit everywhere I go, saving petrol and obeying the law of the road. I reach robots at the same time as the lunatic who flashed me then overtook on a bend, rushing to join the end of a queue of cars. Have some sense! Be patient, slow down and enjoy driving your car rather than being an irate driver who causes crashes. I’m an advanced driver and learnt how to drive at speed and how to avoid crashes, trying to see five cars ahead, but I obey

the laws of South Africa. There are times I break the speed limit – when overtaking lorries driving at 100km/h in the middle lane of a motorway – but then I slow back down to the speed limit of the road I’m using. These limits are there for a reason! There could be turnings or obstructed views, there could be children playing in a field by the road. Of all the countries I’ve lived in, Capetonians and the South African Naval personnel seem to be the worst. What’s the rush? Enjoy life and leave your home earlier! VAUGHAN Simon’s Town

The bitten should bite back “ANGER after bullterrier bite”, People’s Post, Tuesday 23 August, refers: It angers us that there are so many dog owners who ignore the municipal laws by allowing their dogs to walk around the streets without a leash. They don’t care how many people get bitten by their friendly innocent dogs, and when it happens, the victim gets the blame. My friend was twice bitten by dogs here in Fish Hoek. On one occasion she was standing on the road, admiring the view, and on the

other occasion she was lying on Fish Hoek beach, soaking up the sun while reading a book. On both occasions their owners were trying to put the blame on my friend. Their dogs, we were told, have never harmed anybody. Strange, isn’t it? I hope that Mr Belle will take them to court and make and example so we can walk without fear of being attacked. He should also claim his medical expenses from the woman. MAGDA Fish Hoek

I AM a resident in Milkwood Park, and I oppose the idea of opening up Houmoed Avenue. The reason is that this will give more access to Milkwood Park for taxis and loiterers, and that is a big security risk. Milkwood Park has hardly any crime, and I believe it is due to the fact that there is only one access road. The other concern is that people will build shacks next to Houmoed Avenue all the way to Noordhoek Road because there are open spaces. I do understand the dilemma with access roads into Masiphumelele, but Milkwood Park only has one access road as well. The bigger picture, I believe, is that Masiphumelele is overpopulated. Stop

people from building more shacks in Masiphumelele and expanding it. If you look at an aerial view on Google Maps, it is shocking to see how many shacks are built in that area. I believe a limit must be put into place on how many houses can be built there; in other areas of development it is made very clear how many buildings can be erected. There is no control of how many people are moving into Masiphumelele, and that is becoming a big problem. I feel sorry for the people of Masiphumelele, but I do feel the government must put a stop to the growth of Masiphumelele, or the wetlands will be no more. ANTON VAN WYK Milkwood Park

NOTICE OF MEETINGS OF THE SUBCOUNCILS: SEPTEMBER 2011 Notice is hereby given that the meeting of the 24 (twenty four) Subcouncils for the City of Cape Town will take place at the time and at the different venues as indicated in the schedule below: Subcouncil 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Venue Council Chambers, Royal Ascot, Milnerton Kraaifontein Council Chambers Council Chambers, Voortrekker Road, Goodwood Parow Council Chambers, Tallent Road, Parow Council Chambers, cnr Jakkalsvlei Avenue and Kiaat Road, Bonteheuwel Bellville Council Chambers, Bellville Civic Centre Bloekombos Community Hall Strand Council Chambers, Strand Moses Mabidah Library, Khayelitsha Lookout Hill Tourism Facility, Khayelitsha

Date

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