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Nuus and Indaba in The Oppidan Press

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Candidates pitch plans for Ward 12

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A sneak peak into this years line up

Edition 6, 19 May 2011

Lauren Granger

Students apathetic in run-up to local elections

Of the 480 Rhodes students surveyed by The Oppidan Press, only 128 had registered to vote before Wednesdays municipal election
Kyla Hazell and Fundiswa Ndlovu

nly 27% of participating students were registered to vote in yesterdays local government elections, according to the results of a survey of 480 Rhodes students conducted by The Oppidan Press. Though some survey responses indicated a desire to vote, many students said they were uninterested in politics, too lazy to have registered, or had simply forgotten. A recurring response revealed that numerous students felt their vote would be ineffectual. I dont see the point of voting when all the structures of service delivery remain the same no matter who is in power, one respondent said. Others, particularly those from provinces further afield, stated their indifference towards local Grahamstown politics. A common answer read, I dont really care. Professor Leonhard Praeg, Associate Lecturer in the Department of Political and International Studies, is of the opinion that general political apathy is not the cause for the low registration figures: Because of the transient nature of many students stay here, theyre more likely to care about the politics of the place they will go back to, Praeg said. If I were only in a place for two years I wouldnt really care about voting either. Thats just human, he said.

His sentiments were echoed by many of those surveyed. One survey read, I study in Grahamstown but live in East London therefore I dont feel I should really care who is elected here. It appeared that few students are aware of the Special Vote option available to them through the Independent Electoral Commissions (IEC) election website. By downloading and completing a form, students would be able to vote for their home municipality, despite physically casting the vote in Grahamstown. I think Activate, The Oppidan Press and the University ought to make this known to students in the lead up to registration, Praeg said. The percentage found of registered students, in comparison to broader registration statistics, is extremely low. We can never get a 100% voter registration, said Rev. Bongani Finca, a provincial Electoral Officer for the IEC. In the province we have about 81% and we are satisfied. Though we would like to see every citizen exercise their supreme democratic right, the reality is that people also have the right not to participate if they so feel. Issues of student involvement in local elections and the Grahamstown community were addressed at the recent All Party Election Debate held on 10 May. Organised by the Dean of Students Office, the debate offered Ward 12 candidates an opportunity to share their views with the Rhodes community

80 and respond to questions. Many stressed the need for Rhodes as a University to be involved 70 in affecting positive change in the Grahamstown area. 60 Carolene Brooks of the Makana Independent New Deal (MIND) spoke particularly to 50 students from outside Grahamstown: You students are not just temporary sojourners in 40 73% this place. This city cannot function without you, she said. 30 As students we need to ask ourselves if we are planning to become engaged in the com20 munity, not just in a token way, but in a very 27% real way, agreed independent candidate Chris 10 Mc Michael, a Rhodes student. Other candidates present spoke of the 0 Have registered to vote Havent registered to vote University as having a duty towards the comReasons given for the DAs support in this munity on account of their privileged access to election were based on their role as the strongest resources. According to Zukiswa Mhlawatika, canopposition to the ANC and due to their success in didate for COPE, As much as we have our rights, we have a responsibility. the Western Cape. ANC supporters commonly said they were votResults from the 2006 Local Municipal Elecing for the ruling party for a sense of loyalty to the tions saw the ANC holding a majority of over 90% previous liberation movement. Many ANC supin seven of the twelve wards in the Makana area. porters also claimed to love the drama associated Results from Ward 1, which included Rhodes with the partys rule. campus at the time, showed ANC with 67.88%, the DA with 25.88%, and the African Christian DemoThose voting COPE, MIND, or for Chris Mc Michael, were generally looking to see a change cratic Party (ACDP) with 2.74% of the vote. from the more prominent parties. The Oppidan Press election survey indicated The results of yesterdays election will be made that 57.6% of those registered intend to vote DA, with 38.1% meaning to vote ANC in Ward 12. available within seven days.

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News

2 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 3

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SA Campus News
Complied by Senior Reporter Khangelani Dziba

Stellenbosch SRC visits Gtown

Stellenbosch Universitys student governance body was recently at Rhodes University for a two-day visit hosted by the Rhodes Universitys SRC. As part of their visit, the Stellies SRC were taken on a tour of Joza township. They were introduced to a number of community engagement programmes which are supported by the University. The Stellies SRC also took part in a colloquium which, according to Martin Forsyth, Media Councillor and Electoral Officer of the Rhodes SRC, was, [A] discussion centred on how far weve come in student governance, and the role that we can play in participatory governance at higher education level. This was the most engaging event of the weekend, whereby we were able to debate various issues surrounding the SRC, what our purpose is, what we should be striving for and how far we have come, Forsyth continued.

New campaign to support Africa Week male rape survivors preparations underway
Lebogang Tlou Members of Masithethani, an antirape group standing in solidarity with male rape survivors, are planning to tie themselves to the railings outside the Rhodes University Drama Department next week. According to Aidan Prinsloo, the organiser of the Masithethani (isiXhosa for Let us speak out) group, the event is designed to symbolise the powerlessness often felt by men who have been raped. A recent study found that 44% of male school children reported being forced to have had non-consensual sex, Prinsloo said. That is two in five men before they hit 19 that we can say have been raped. The immediate aim of this protest, he continued, is to raise awareness about male rape specifically. While we admit that rape is devastating among women and not enough is being done about female rape, there is next to no real knowledge or awareness about male rape. Prinsloo stressed that Masithethani should not be misinterpreted as stealing the 1 in 9 Sexual Violence = Silence campaigns thunder. The rape of women remains one of the biggest problems which our country faces; and the campaign ought to receive a lot more attention than it already does, he said. According to Prinsloo, all the men taking part will be wearing brown T-shirts, with a statement written on them in blue, as well as information as to what the protest is about. Women are also welcome to join us, he said. But [they] will wear blue and stand in support. There will also be a loudhailer and we will be informing passers-by about male rape, he said. The event is being funded by the Dean of Students office. This is an extremely important issue deserving attention in its own right, said student services officer Larissa Klazinga, the organiser of the 1 in 9 campaign. The protest will hopefully highlight the issue and begin to create a space for male rape survivors to speak about their experiences, and to access the support [that] they need without stigma, Klazinga continued. The protest is planned to take place on 27 May between 12:30 and 14:00. Enathi Mqokeli The third annual Africa Week, scheduled to begin on 23 May, is set to wow Rhodes students. The week was first initiated in 2009 by the Dean of Students (DoS) Office in conjunction with the International Office. The week came about to highlight the contributions of great African states people and scholars, as well as the diversity of students and staff at Rhodes, said Larissa Klazinga, the co-ordinator of the weeks events. A regular feature of the event is the hosting of a high profile speaker organised by the Pan African Youth Dialogue (PAYD). However, the founders of PAYD, Xolani Nyali and Siyabulela Gebe, relocated to Cape Town. According to Gebe, PAYD is experiencing a number of problems due to this, including the cancellation of this years PAYD programme and their inability to organise such a speaker. Klazinga has arranged for Rhodes graduate, Tracy Hammond, to present a seminar titled 'On being a working sociologist in Africa' on 24 May 2011. It will be held at the Humanities Seminar room during the lunch hour. On 20 May 2011, the International Office will also be hosting a parade with the theme Celebrating Diversity: Global to Local. Participants will gather at the Drostdy Gate at 14:00, and local community groups, schools, and a number of societies and academic departments will showcase different African cultural performances. Various other proceedings, such as a soccer match between the universitys South African and Zimbabwean teams, food stalls at the Great Field and a themed party at the Union, will take place. The School of African Languages has also planned to participate, and hopes to merge with other cultural-based societies. The main aim is to urge people to know more about their roots, commented John Blouw, the Xhosa 1 Mother Tongue class representative. According to the SRC President Mbongeni Allan Magubane, the week is important in giving students an opportunity to celebrate their African identity, and in encouraging students to engage in various discussions about the African continent. This is the time to be talking, this is the time to be making plans and expanding research and development. The time is always now! exclaimed Magubane.

News

News in isiXhosa and Afrikaans

ISRC ikhuthaza abafundi banxibe umbala omfusa ngoLwesine
Written by Laura Skippers & translated by Enathi Mqokeli Rhoqo ngooLwesine kwikhampasi yeYunivesithi yaseRhodes udibana nabafundi benxibe umbala omfusa. Eli nyathelo le-Purple Thursdays liququzelelwa ngumbutho wabameli babafundi eRhodes, iSRC. Eli nyathelo lenzelwe ukukhuthaza indibano phakathi kwabafundi baseRhodes. Ukwenzele abafundi badlale indima kweli nyathelo, bakhuthazwa ukuba banxibe ii-ovaroli zaseRhodes okanye isinxibo sabo sibe nombala omfusa. UMartin Forsyth ojongene namajelo eendaba, oyiSRC Media and Electoral Councillor, uthi, IPurple Thursday yeveki edlulileyo iphumelele kakuhle kakhulu kunendlela ebesiyilindele. Sibone abafundi abaninzi ebebenxibe umbala omfusa, kuthe kufika iminemaqanda ngoLwesine zabe ziphelile izipho. UForsyth uthi iSRC ijolisa ekuguquleni indlela ekuthi kubonwe ngayo unxibo lwee-ovaroli. Ngenxa yokhuphiswano lwezemidlalo oluthi lwenzeke phakathi kweeyunivesiti iRhodes University, NMMU, Fort Hare University neWalter Sisulu University, olubizwa ukuba yi-Intervarsity weekend, abantu baye badibanise ezi ovaroli nesimilo esingathandekiyo sabafundi apho baye banxile ngokugqithisileyo. Kungoko benze eli nyathelo ukwenzele bajike umbono onikwa zezi-ovaroli kuluntu. ISRC ifuna abafundi bazinxibe ngebhongo ezi ovaroli ukwenzele zinxulunyaniswe nesithethe saseRhodes. Iinjongo zeSRC zezokuvala isithuba esikhoyo phakathi kwabafundi neSRC. UForsyth ukwagxininise ngelithi iSRC isebenzela abafundi, ngoko ke ayingekhe ikwazi ukuyiphumeza injongo yayo yokwenene ukuba abafundi abathathi nxaxheba ngokupheleleyo. Abafundi abaninzi abayiboni indima edlalwa yiSRC, kungoko siqalisa eli nyathelo, utsho uForsyth. UTsitsi Mashingaidze, umfundi owenza unyaka wokuqala kwizifundo zenzululwazi uthi, Ngumbono omhle lo weli nyathelo. Ingakumbi kuthi thina bafundi benza unyaka wokuqala kuba lisikhuthaza ukuba sibe nebhongo ngeyunivesithi yethu. UForsyth ukhuthaza bonke abafundi ukuba bawuxhase kangangoko lo msebenzi. Abathe banxiba umbala omfusa rhoqo ngoLwesine baya kuthi babesethubeni lokuzuza amabhaso anezinto zaseRhodes. Abo banxibe

Bjrn Krietsch

Natalie Nyamutumbu of the SRC shows off her Rhodes spirit in front of the SRC wall devoted to Purple Thursdays mfusa qha, baya kufumana amatikiti okutya simahla ezivenkileni zokutya. Ukuba abafundi bafuna ukuzuza kwezi zipho kubalulekile ukuba baxhase lo msebenzi kangangoko. Bjrn Krietsch

Read the English version of these stories online www.theoppidanpress.com

Pis sourced

Naak diereliefhebbers versaak wintertruie ter wille van solidariteit

Written and translated by Marcelle van Rooyen Dra jou eie vel! was een van die uitroepe wat oor die kampus weerklink het toe Rhodes-studente by die Departement Joernalistiek en Media Studies vergader het om naak teen die dra van pels te protesteer en s die begin van Diereregteweek te proklameer. Die jaarlikse Naakte Protesoptog het vanjaar op 9 Mei plaasgevind en was n Rhodes Organisation for Animal Rights (ROAR) inisiatief. Nadat die betogers hul ontklee het, het hulle die halfuur drafstap deur die kampus en tot in Grahamstad begin, toegerus met plakkate. Hoewel [die optog] dalk nie n groot impak gaan toon nie, dink ek dat dit werklik n simboliese manier is om te wys hoe na die aangeleentheid ons aan die hart l, het Keegan van Zyl, n eerstejaar BA student en betoger opgemerk. ROAR beoog om tydens Diereregteweek lig op die stryd teen dieremishandeling te werp. Wreedheid teen diere sluit in die misbruik van diere vir vermaaklikheidsdoeleindes, klere, dierestropery en viviseksie. Die ekskursie het wel n effek op mense omdat dit n goeie skokmeganisme is, meen Caitlyn Wilkie, assistent-organiseerder vir die byeenkoms en sekretaris vir ROAR. Ons roer n gewigtige kwessie aan. Hopelik sal mense oor die belang daarvan begin praat. Die oorspronklike idee vir di optog is n aangepaste weergawe van die optogte van PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals). Die internasionale organisasie ondersteun universiteite se diereregteskemas en maak ook van tyd tot tyd gebruik van naaktheid in hul proteste. Ander gebeure wat ook deur ROAR georganiseer was om Diereregteweek te herdenk, het n piekniek op die Union Grasperk op 13 Mei 2011, in samewerking met die Drommevereniging, ingesluit. Vegatariese kos en handelsware was te koop. Die veldtog het op Vrydagaand tot n einde gekom met die afsluitingspartytjie by Friar Tucks, waar 5FM se Anele en Grant die vermaak as gasplatejoggies verskaf het.

Wits WALE 4.0 creates a buzz

The Wits Arts and Literature Experience (WALE) took off on 11 May, with a number of events planned. The events ranged from five dance shows, 16 theatre shows, two musical theatre productions, eight music events, 10 film screenings, seven exhibitions, two installations, three workshops, two poetry readings, a debate and five book-related events in just four days. Manager of the festival, Ashraf Johaardien, said, Over the past three years WALE has built itself into one of the countrys best festivals on a very limited budget. This year were proud to say that we [have] doubled the programming offering even though WALE remains self-funded for the time being.

Students protest corrective rape

Joshua Oates

This years Africa Week is set to celebrate Africas people and diversity

NMMU launches new sports programme

NMMU, which has been in partnership with the International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES) since 2006, has officially launched the 5th edition of the NMMU/ FIFA/CIES Management Programme, which will commence on 3 October 2011. It has gained a sterling reputation from involvement with sports entities, local government and communities. Coordinator of the programme at NMMU, Vernon Oosthuizen, said, I think that the reputation and credibility of the NMMU/FIFA/CIES Programme has increased regularly for various reasons: the quality of the course material, the exchange of experience among students, the repute of the international and local speakers and the links offered by the programme. Oosthuizen said that despite students considering the curriculum expensive, they acknowledge the value of what they receive in the classroom. Joshua Oates

ZimSoc forced to change name and committee

Senior Reporter Tsholofelo Tlhoaele The well-known Zimbabwe Society, better known as ZimSoc, that takes on roughly 150 student members each year, has this year undertaken a transformation. The society is now known as Zim Unlimited. The change resulted after a series of irregularities within their committee elections revealed issues with the societys financial state. The SRC requested that the society close down and only be reopened provided the election of a committee and the choosing of a new name. Zim Unlimited President Mike Mavura, a Politics Masters student and a lecturer at Rhodes University, says that the society is working towards broadening the framework of what the society is all about. He said that the majority of the societys members are from Zimbabwe and Malawi, but that Zim Unlimited were looking to change this. The society is planning to diverge from the reputation of being a party-throwing society by hosting alternate events. The newly named society started the

Rhodes students participated in a naked protest for Animal Rights Week

Wine Tasting Society banned from RU campus Oppi robbed while sleeping
Athina May The Wine Tasting society has been banned from hosting events on campus due to the misconduct of some of its members during an event hosted at the St Peters building earlier this year. The banning was attributed to the discovery of cigarette butts and burned matches in the womens restroom, as well as the theft of some ornaments. Secretary of the society, Efemia Chela, discovered that the society had been denied access to all campus venues after she had made a booking for a weekly wine tasting event. We booked a venue two weeks in advance and we were only informed the [day before] our wine tasting that our request to book a venue had been denied, Chela said. The society then received a letter from facilities officer Lorna Meaton informing them of the ban, and saying that they would not be able to use any of the Universitys venues to host events until the end of the second term. Society members have expressed dissatisfaction at the decision by the facilities office, as their weekly tasting sessions have been reduced to two sessions a month hosted at Pirates, which requires a fee for each events. Head of Wine Tasting Max Walker said, This is not up to [our] usual standard. The wine tasting society is the most expensive society on campus, and the members expect tastings of a certain standard. The SRC has appealed to Meaton to have the terms of the ban reduced. However, the appeal was dismissed. [The] looking after [of] venues is the number one rule Lorna Meaton has, said SRC Societies Councillor Jean-Michel Gaud. The SRC does not have the final say in making rulings, they [SRC] are [only] there to help have your voice heard, [and] people should be aware that offices and venues are not a given right, they are a privilege, Gaud continued. Despite this, Walker does not believe that the penance given to the society was unwarranted. However, he does believe that the punishment given could have been more lenient. Joshua Oates Thieves broke into a digs at 38 New Street while a student was asleep in her room, on Saturday 30 April. No suspects have been arrested, pending the processing of results from finger prints taken from the scene. SAPS Spokesperson, Captain Mali Govender, confirmed that the investigating officers are still busy. The occupant of the digs, Jamie-Lee Willis, a Third Year BA student, said she had gone to bed at 4:30 after arriving home from a party. She believed the thieves entered the digs at about 5:00. Willis had been alone in the house, her digsmate was away for the long weekend and her friends next door were also not home. The whole flat was wrecked, trashed, said Willis. They ate our food and then proceeded to throw it around the house. Items that were stolen include cellphones, a laptop, a camera, a modem, watches, a CD player, suitcases and many of her other personal items. She said that the thieves had emptied all the cupboards in the house; Some [items] were even [placed] on top of me, on the bed, said Willis. The thieves left the front door open as they escaped. I was completely shocked and was freaking out, said Willis, I felt violated and terrified. She reported the robbery to the police that afternoon. They (the police) were fast and very sensitive, said Willis. They were a great help. Detectives and a fingerprint specialist arrived at the scene to collect evidence. The constable that came to see the crime left me with his number in case of future emergencies, she said. Several suspects have recently been arrested in connection with various robberies throughout Grahamstown, but the SAPS have yet to link them to this particular break-in. Girls especially should not come home alone, it is too easy and quiet for [thieves] to get into their houses, said Willis as advice for other students. The people breaking in [to houses] are using [bolt]cutters to cut padlocks, she said. She further advised Oppidans to take extra safety precautions to ensure that their digs was secure from intruders.

Students gathered by the Drodsty Arch on Sunday 15 May to protest against corrective rape in South Africa. Hosted by the OutRhodes society, participants moved down to Peppergrove Mall to raise awareness of rape that targets lesbians, gays, transsexuals, bisexuals and intersex people, mainly occuring in rural and township areas. The protestors had one minute of silence for those who have been raped and/or murdered. Ayanda Kota, of the Unemployed Peoples Movement, and representatives for Students for Social Justice, and the Gender Awareness Program also attended. A simultaneous protest was held in Cape Town on the steps of parliament.

year with a culture exploration garden party where the society served various traditional meals, played cultural music and shared Zimbabwean culture with others. They are looking towards creating discussion forums amongst the student body and members of the society about the situation in Zimbabwe, focusing specifically on politics and the socioeconomic conditions in the country. Mavura added that his aim was to include a variety of other cultural groups and to hold effective forums about land distributions. The society has worked on getting sponsors to aid their finances and is also trying to join the Chamber of Commerce with an aim to create training links for future graduates. Zim Unlimiteds plans for the remainder of the year include hosting a Zimbabwean stand-up comedian, as well as hosting talks by members of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and Zanu PF political parties to discuss the future of Zimbabwe. [This will] hopefully encourage Zimbabwean students to return home to seek work after graduation and improve the country, Mavura said.

Do you have something to say? Email us your thoughts and opinions letters@theoppidanpress.com

Features A case for safe termination of pregnancy

Leigh Hermon igns like 100% guaranteed safe abortion and same day no pain can be seen littered around Grahamstown. These posters are often plastered to the side of rubbish bins or stuck to the back of a No Parking sign. Many students who walk past will often laugh and make jokes. I know of one male digs that has placed the same poster on their living room wall. Talking about abortions falls into the category of taboo topics in South Africa. We can easily be described as a conservative nation, yet our constitution is considered to be one of the most progressive in the world. There are a number of rights that have been enshrined in South African law and the choice of termination of pregnancy (TOP) is one of them. A woman can choose to undergo a TOP procedure at a hospital that provides the service. In all government hospitals the procedure is free, whilst at a private clinic like Marie Stopes in Port Elizabeth the procedure can cost between R750 and R2 600. However, there is a stigma around discussing a womans choice when it comes to abortions which often leads to shame. Many women have been known to seek out other methods of terminating a pregnancy that are neither safe nor legal. According to the Health Care Centre, 20 abortions have already taken place within the first five months of this

4 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

Do you have something to add? Email features@theoppidanpress.com

Do you have something to add? Email features@theoppidanpress.com

Features
The problem, however, is the word comrades. According to Ellis their conception of using the word in the mural has nothing to do with any kind of serious political undercurrents. It simply runs with the theme. Nel and Coetzee further add that the mural was made to be deconstructed and to provoke. So, the matter of comrades versus Rhodents was made on an artistic whim and the text accompanying the mural was never specified or agreed upon in the original proposal. Some students said they would have liked Rhodents instead of Comrades. Unfortunately, according to Mohammed Shabangu, SRC vicepresident external, the mural is to be decommissioned as soon as the Purple Thursday initiative is over. Speaking on the erasure of their art, Coetzee and Nel jointly had this to say: We were always aware that the mural would be temporary, to which Ellis adds, Fluid art is the best kind. If its temporary its that much more precious.

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 5

THE DOPENESS

Comrade vs. Rhodent: the glitch in the Purple Thursday matrix

Bakhulule Maluleka f you go anywhere near the library on a regular basis, even if its just to buy something from the Kaif or to use the ATM, youve probably seen the mural. Done in the stylistic framework [of] cultural revolution propaganda posters, according to artists Joseph Coetzee and Daniel Nel, it is quite a sight to see. Kirsten Makin

year. The centre has seen a rise from last years figures, where 30 abortions took place. This is clearly an issue affecting female students at Rhodes, therefore, there is a need for some discussion to take place.

Chelsea Nelson

It took us about two years of backwards and forwards wrangling to try and identify someone who was prepared to undergo the training.
Up until a month ago, Settlers Hospital in Grahamstown, a demarcated TOP clinic, was unable to perform abortions. Due to the lack of staff, women would have to travel to a TOP clinic in PE. Sister Ferreira of the Rhodes University Health Care Centre said: All our clients had to be referred to PE; either to Dora Nzinga [hospital] or to Marie Stopes clinic. But now this year the hospital has employed a Sister. It took us about two years of backwards and forwards wrangling to try and identify someone who was prepared to undergo the training, says Larissa Klazinga of the Dean of Students division. If the procedure is declared legal under South African law, why is it so difficult to find staff to perform a TOP? There are moral issues for staff. Many staff [members] dont believe in abortion so they are simply Pregnant students seeking abortions now have the option of having the procedure done in Grahamstown as opposed to out of town not prepared to undergo the training and provide the service, explained Klazinga. If a female student falls pregnant and is thinking of having an abortion, what should she do? Go to the Health Care Centre for the initial check up. Then we will refer you to Dr. Bull who will work with either Settlers... or with Marie Stopes. One way or the other we will assist students to access abortions, said Klazinga. It is always important in making this decision that a woman speaks to someone about it. Sister Ferreira described how many of the women would arrive at the clinic unable to discuss the pregnancy with their partner or parents, they just want to get rid of the baby. Sister Ferreira advises students to confide in a friend, a partner or parents: Its important to have that support structure, because it is not an easy decision to make. This article was not aimed at entering the abortion debate. It does not wish to preach the ideas of pro-life or pro-choice. This article seeks to inform women, particularly students, about the options that are available to them. The posters for backstreet abortions clearly indicate a market, but before a decision is made, we hope Rhodes female students understand that there are safe affordable methods. Rhodes University provides access to these options which places the health and the well-being of the women first.

Nel and Coetzee, along with fellow art student Dee Ellis, were approached by the SRC to create a mural based on the SRCs Purple Thursdays initiative. The initiative is to celebrate the centenary of the existence of the SRC. The mural sports three Rhodents standing proudly with the slogan: Comrades, Thursdays are purple under them. Many people like the mural as it finally brings some colour and difference to the industrial-like atmosphere of the library and its surroundings.

Yello MTN Care Connect

Bakhulule Maluleka This time around, were tagging something that many of us rarely think about: the medical profession. We all get sick but most students dont care about preventing illness, instead, theyd rather deal with it when its there. Rather than presenting you with something dope thats futuristic and abstract, something from alternate shores, we bring you something proudly South African right here on our doorstep. We all know MTN as one of the powerhouse cellular communications companies in South Africa. While their main adversary, Vodacom, has been on a mission to paint the town red by re-branding under parent company Vodafone, MTN has been doing something for the people. The company recently launched a service dubbed MTN Care Connect, which is a nurses advisory helpline provided in partnership with the Sanlam Group. The main aim of the helpline is to provide medical education and information to callers using handsets. Further, the provision of educational and informational services will be undertaken by a select group of professional nurses. MTN does stress though that this helpline is in no way a substitute for medical practitioners diagnoses relative to the specific medical query. Another important distinction that MTN makes is that this is not an emergency line. The number for the emergency line is still 112 and in the event that someone calling the nurses advisory helpline is identified as facing something life threatening, he or she will be rerouted to the emergency line. As always, there are a few catches to using the service. Firstly, its only available to MTN subscribers. Secondly, its not free: a person calling the helpline will be charged five rand per minute, billed at eight cents per second. But the helpline itself offers many incentives which should not deter those who are keen to give it a try. They help identify symptoms; provide basic information and education on medical conditions, they can refer patients to the nearest doctor, hospital or clinic and they can also provide expert information on the medication itself, including correct dosage. Now, if thats not #moredopeness then I dont know what is. Here we are, afraid to go outside into the unforgiving Grahamstown winter chill because getting sick is a disadvantage no student deserves, but MTN is trying to make it better... Yello Care Connect, Yello!

Many Rhodes students like the new mural but have problems with the slogan, in particular, the use of the word comrades.

Do you believe in magick?

Bakhulule Maluleka In the last few centuries, the lesserrepresented religion of Paganism and its subsect, Wicca, have had somewhat of a bad reputation. Of the many misconceptions around about the religion, the beliefs that they practice black magick and are devil worshippers seem to be the rifest. However, this couldnt be further from the truth. Rhodes has its own Wiccan culture, with individuals observing all the religious rites. In order to squash the many misconceptions and halfbaked notions about the religion, The Oppidan Press interviewed a few of our resident Wiccans. Contrary to popular belief, Wicca is a peaceful, harmonious, and balanced way of life which promotes oneness with the divine and all which exists. Archaeological discoveries show that Wicca can be traced back to the Palaeolithic peoples who worshipped a hunter god and a fertility goddess. Wiccan beliefs predate Christianity by approximately 28 000 years. Witchcraft and Wicca, while similar in many respects, are not the same: Wicca is a recognised religion, based on ancient witchcraft traditions. Both of the students interviewed have been observing the religion for over eight years and both cite indepth research and personal resonance as one of the main factors that lead them to become Wiccans. Speaking about the religion at Rhodes, Second Year Mikhaela Kohlo says, You get all sorts of Wiccans, just like you get all sorts of Christians... Its highly personalised though. Much about the religion is personalised since there are no specific directions as to how it should be observed. This stems from an understanding of the Wiccan Rede and its core premise Harm none (this is, of course, a summarised version). Most people are also afraid that Wiccans will place hexes or spells on them but this is far from the truth.

A blue Monday at Redwood Spur

Athina Valene May asking what Id like the waiter still got it wrong, which I find a little ridiculous, says a fuming customer Robyn Mondays at Spur is always a highWertheim. She felt that the manager light for students at Rhodes. Not made little effort in reimbursing the only is it an escape from res food bill, instead putting emphasis on the but you also get two burgers for the waiter involved having to cover the price of one, which is always a plus bill. After not feeling comfortable with on a student budget. So on Monday the idea she decided to foot the bill. 2 May when students were informed It is service like this that makes one that their beloved dining halls would wonder whether our status as students be closed due to the public holiday, is being abused. most Rhodes students (those who According to Spur manager had survived the weekend without Davron Loots, the students were not donating their meal money to the the only ones who were disappointed needy watering holes in Grahaand suffered a loss that Monday. Spur mstown) found solace in the idea lost a total of R3000 in revenue due of having great food and service to meals being given without charge usually found at our trusty Redwood because of unsatisfactory meals. Spur. Unfortunately, this was not the An influx of students into Spur on case for students who had been to Mondays is not a sudden occurrence. Spur this past A Spur waiter even Monday. commented, It was Spur lost a total of Students left not busier than usual, Spur with facial R3000 in revenue as they are used to beexpressions that ing busy on Mondays. due to meals being looked rather Restaurant managebleak as it was ment should therefore given without evident that the have been more than charge because customers were prepared for the army not amused. of hungry students of unsatisfactory Complaints that queued at its service. amongst stuentrance on 2 May dents ranged 2011. from waiting for hours to be seated to One cannot help but wonder then enduring another long wait for whether the same type of service food, receiving burnt and sub-stanwould have been given if it was a dard food, waiters being inadequate, group of business CEOs heading into ATM machines being offline without the restaurant. The only plausible customers being notified and managoption is that it was in lieu of Workers ers who refused to take accountability Day, meaning Spur had fewer regular for the meagerness of service afforded staff members. However, the arguably to customers. could have made temporary arrangeFor many, going to Spur was seen ments. as the highlight of the day (mainly Another popular restaurant, Debobecause of not having enough money nairs, had refused to take orders via to cater for supper as well) but because phone and customers ordering online of the inadequacies of the staff and were given a warning in advanced that management that day, it turned out to their food would not be done in less be an anti-climax for many previously than two hours. eager Spur-goers. I did not mind the It makes one appreciate the nowait for my food but after repeatedly hassle res food that much more.

First-year spread: not just for first-years

Kirsten Makin Bronte Moeti Winter is upon us, and with that comes the prospect of over-indulging, comfort-eating, bulges in unwanted places, boycotting the gym and plain laziness. In essence, your summer body faces an uphill battle. Why it is that we pile on the weight during the winter months? And what can we do in order to prevent this? With the help of Dietitian MaryAnne Victor, and Third Year Bachelor of Science student and personal trainer Nicola Sewry, The Oppidan Press has compiled simple guidelines to ensure you maintain your summer body well throughout the winter months.

Victor cites the main reasons for gaining weight during the winter months as:
1. Over indulging in comfort foods, particularly carbohydrates. 2. Shying away from fruits and veggies. 3. Drinking less water, which is ultimately replaced by hot beverages; 4. Increasing coffee and tea consumption, which inevitably increases sugar intake. 5. We simply think more about food during the quieter winter months. All of the above however, can be painlessly avoided by simply: 1. Limiting the comfort foods one usually eats, even when youre not hungry. 2. Sticking to your eating plans (especially your fruit and vegetable quotas). 3. Drinking more than enough water. 4. Limiting hot beverage consumption to 2-3 cups of unsweetened herbal tea a day (this includes Rooibos). 5. Finally, remain active, this means less time to dwell on thoughts of over indulgence!

Magick is a word given to the process of imposing an intention upon energies around you. Many Wiccans cast magick in order to commune with the world around them and to request changes for things.
Magick is a word given to the process of imposing an intention upon energies around you. Many Wiccans cast magick in order to commune with the world around them and to request changes for things, says Chloe Monilo, a Fourth Year student. Therefore, most of the rites Wiccans observe are for personal well-being and feelings of integration with the lived world. Further, none of these rites involve devil-worship or praising of obscure/ occult entities. Wicca does not believe in Satan because he is a part of the Christian religion, adds Mikhaela.

Sewry however focuses more on the physical aspects attributed to weight gain:
Lets face the facts, huddling under a warm blanket and watching a movie is much more appealing than braving the bitter cold to work out. Sewry believes that even the weather isnt a good enough excuse to stop exercising and gave the following tips as motivation: 1. Change your exercise routine to accommodate the weather, swap your outdoor sports for indoor sports or join the gym. 2. For those who arent gym members, a simple exercise such as skipping can be just as effective in burning calories, elevating heart rate and keeping fit. The best thing about it is it can be done indoors and in very little space. 3. The amount of exercise you do doesnt have to increase during winter months, as your body naturally works harder to keep you warm during these months. By sticking to the tips above we all can maintain our summer bodies relatively easily throughout the winter months, ready to flaunt it when summer graces us once again. In the meantime, dont let winter be the excuse!

Some of my Christian friends have sat in during spells and rituals to debunk that myth. In earnest agreement, Chloe defines the difference between white and black magick as the difference between the intentions when someone practices magick. If a person casts a spell with benevolence as the prime directive, then no harm will come to him or her. Otherwise, as in all other religions, there are those people who do not follow the loosely prescribed path of the Wiccan. For this, there is a further law to the Rede: the law of three, which at base states that all a Wiccan does in the world (good or bad) will be returned to him or her threefold. This, like the Ten Commandments in Christianity or the normative statements within other religions serves, to slow down the more extremist members of the religion; since, most Wiccans will not go over and above violation of the first law. Wicca also has its own festivals and special occasions which are celebrated by one and all. In fact, a week ago, the occasion of Samhain was held. As Chloe puts it, this is specifically a celebration of those who have gone before, a celebration of the New Year. As a result of some bad plot devices and sometimes stereotypical conceptions, the media has led many to view Wiccans as one of the big bad wolves of the religious realm. Hopefully, with Rhodes being an open-minded environment, where all voices and creeds are given equal valuation, we can come to see that most of the media is mistaken. Who knows, a few of you may even want to experience the next sacred rite yourselves.

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Regular trips to the Rhodes Health Suite is just one way student Chevawn Blum plans to stay fit and healthy this winter

Politics

6 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

Do you have something to add? Email politics@theoppidanpress.com

Do you have something to add? Email politics@theoppidanpress.com

The bin Laden files

Tarryn de Kock The news of Osama bin Ladens death sent shockwaves around the world, but before the furore had died down, questions were already being asked. Many of these questions centred on why he had not been taken into custody to be tried for war crimes, based on the USs long and often tedious search across the Middle East to find him. The context of the situation cannot be disputed. President Barack Obama is in a precarious position in American politics at the moment. His voter popularity ratings were below 50% before bin Ladens death just barely three years after being elected. His health plan has been mooted by Congress and he recently stated that he would stand for re-election. But the success of such a move depends on restoring the faith of American voters enough to have them vote him in for a second term. Enter Osama bin Laden. The man who it was claimed had orchestrated the 9/11 attacks has eluded US army forces for nearly 10 years, creating an American public desperate for him to be brought to justice for their grief. The search for bin Laden was used to justify the occupation of oil-rich Afghanistan, but whether a decade of occupation is justified is another story. Obama has said that US forces will withdraw from Afghanistan in July this year, and the death of bin Laden before this deadline seems quite convenient. Americas stance on the Nuremberg trials of 1945 grossly contradicts its summary execution of bin Laden. Then, they favoured the idea of trying key Nazi figures, even only symbolically, before punishing them. So, why the change of heart? Why was bin Laden not tried like the Nazis were? The fact that bin Ladens body was not seen and that he was not given the opportunity to be put on trial is sufficient cause for many to suspect some kind of conspiracy. He was buried on the day of his death out of respect for his religion, which some describe as very convenient for the US government. However, one could argue that having bin Laden alive or dead in the US would warrant an al-Qaeda attack. Added to that, there has been strong protest against the way the raid on bin Ladens compound was conducted. Pakistans former President Pervez Musharraf has hit out at the US for violating the sovereignty of the country, while the US has responded by saying that a country that harbours terrorists is not sovereign. The Mail and Guardian has reported that South Africa has condemned the killing, saying that Obama is using the incident to boost his campaign profile. It has worked; since bin Ladens death his popularity has gone up to 60%. The world needs to question whether it is the right of the US to intervene in international affairs and put pressure on the UN at its own discretion. It is not the duty of one nation to decide the fate of another no matter how much economic power they wield.

A social revolution in our own backyard

Leigh Hermon e live in a world where social revolution is brought about by the web, with tools like social networking sites, and an angry youth. The Arab revolutions at the beginning of this year illustrated how social movements are changing and evolving. It would appear that sites like Twitter and Facebook are handy instruments when you want to start a student revolution, including one on the Rhodes campus. In recent months a group calling themselves Students for Social Justice (SSJ) has started making waves on campus. These young men and women appear to be at the frontline of questioning social injustice in Grahamstown. The Oppidan Press sat down and had a chat with one of the founding members of the SSJ, Benjamin Fogel, to find out what this new organisation was all about. In March some of the members of the SSJ were alerted to the plight of the Unemployed Peoples Movement (UPM) of Grahamstown. The SSJ started earlier this year in response to the municipalitys attempt to shut down UPM's protests and we felt it was disgusting and we as students should show solidarity with the UPM, said Fogel. It is all good and well to express displeasure at something, but an organisation is in need of a focus and a course of action. The group aims to break the bubble between Rhodes University and the greater Grahamstown community, said Fogel. The SSJ expressed a need for a social movement that is actively involved in addressing the daily struggles

of South Africans. The group emphasises the need for people to be empowered rather than rely on those elected into political structures. With the divide between the rich and the poor, which is evident in Grahamstown, there is a need to readdress the political system in South Africa. More specifically, to help build a new politics and ensure a just future in South Africa. However, how will students address

The SSJ started earlier this year in response to the municipalitys attempt to shut down UPMs protests and we felt it was disgusting and we as students should show solidarity with the UPM
such a need? How does the SSJ plan to empower the people of Grahamstown? Fogel says that there is no set agenda, but he describes the act of building links with social movements both here and around the rest of South Africa. This will be achieved through creating awareness of certain social problems in the community. There are a number of issues that affect Grahamstown residents on a daily basis and one such issue is the bucket system. The SSJ are working with the UPM to address such matters and make a point to encourage problem solving discussions. The SSJ stress that it is crucial to create links with other organisations. If we

Cosatu Secretary General criticizes ANC voters amnesia

Bart Bowman Pic sourced In the build up to the local elections held on Wednesday, Zwelinzima Vavi, General Secretary of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), drew crowds of ANC supporters to Barratt Lecture Hall on 8 May 2011. Other members of the ANC, as Zwelinzima Vavi addressed ANC well as leaders from COSATU and the supporters at Rhodes Mayor of the Makana Municipality, Vumile Lwana, also joined Vavi at the meeting. In 1994 only 62% of the The COSATU General Secretary population had water, today referred to the 17 years of the ANC 93% of the population have holding power as not being a very long clean drinking water, meaning time: It has been that over the past 17 years 17 years after a He spoke of how 16 million people have hundred years of now received access to he considered colonialism, he clean drinking water. said. Its going to In 1994 only 36% the ANC to be take time to repair of the population had fighting a battle damage from the electricity, now 84% of the apartheid era. country has electricity, against disease He spoke of how there is better access to he considered the education for poorer within its ranks. ANC to be fighting families in South Africa. a battle against Vavi declared that in disease within its ranks: [There is] 2011 the ANC was making job creation A disease which has struck a number a number one priority, by having R9 of ANC supporters; this disease is billion set aside to create jobs, stating amnesia. that every cent would be used to help Vavi said supporters had forgotten people who had lost their jobs to what the ANC had managed to achieve. the past economical downfall in the He quoted the following figures in an international community. attempt at reminding those present of He urged ANC supporters not to some of the ruling partys successes: forget how the ANC had improved the In the past seventeen years the lives of millions of South Africans and ANC has built over 2.5 million assured those in attendance that the homes, giving 15 million people ruling party intended to help even more housing. if they won this years local elections.

are going to create alternative power structures and take on an unaccountable state, links between students and social movements need to be formed, said Fogel. In order to create awareness of the organisations ambitions, there is a need to raise awareness about the group. How have the SSJ been achieving popularity amongst Rhodes students? Like most web tools in life these days, Facebook is a viable platform for galvinisation. A Facebook page has been set up where group members are able to post links and events relating to the organisations mission. However, the most successful advertising has come from aligning themselves with the campaign of independent student ward candidate, Chris Mc Michael. The most crucial element of the organisation, according to Fogel, is to be active instead of having these one week spurts of activism. The SSJ have stirred up a significant following for Mc Michaels campaign, but they reject the rumour that they are a political party participating in the election. The group is merely in solidarity with the candidate and has seen similarities in their aims with those of Mc Michaels campaign. No matter the SSJs political affiliation, there is a clear indication that the people of Grahamstown are upset. Students and residents are no longer willing to stand by and accept their circumstances. The social networks are all a twitter with a call for revolt in South Africa. Who knows, Grahamstown may be the start of South Africas own revolution and the SSJ, along with the UPM, could be leading the fight.

World Media Freedom Day conference

Lucy Holford-Walker ay 3 has been declared World Press Freedom Day, recognising the importance of the media and the significance of freedom of expression. However, how can we be sure of this freedom? In celebration of World Press Freedom Day, the Rhodes School of Journalism and Media Studies, in association with SOS (Support Public Broadcasting Coalition and Media Monitoring Africa) held a conference discussing what kind of public service broadcaster is envisaged for the Eastern Cape. Representatives from a number of political factions were invited to speak and provide their view on the current conditions of the public broadcaster. Whilst all the parties had something to say, there were a few party representatives that stood out from the crowd. A number of representatives expressed the importance of free speech in South Africa. The African National Congress (ANC) representative Mcebisi Jonas stressed the partys belief in media freedom and that in terms of the Eastern Cape specifically, the issue of equity is fundamental and all should be represented by the public broadcaster. This was an interesting viewpoint, considering this is the ruling party representative. From the points that were raised

Politics

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 7

RU ANCYL gives back

Sibulele Magini ANC Youth League members from Rhodes University spent their Freedom Day at the Home of Joy orphanage in Joza Grahamstown. Nomalungelo Ngcangca, the woman in charge of the home, could not disguise her delight as the unannounced guests came in with groceries and clothing for the orphanage. The children were in high spirits to see the students bringing them food and clothing. We are here to free the kids from hunger and cold this Freedom Day, said ANCYL treasurer, Masixole Njumbuxa. Some of Ngcangcas volunteers were touched by the act of kindness and it brought back heartbreaking memories and emotions. Mthuthuzeli Mabukane, one of the orphanages volunteers, felt the visit was an important one to him and his family, I am grateful for this, my brother died in the struggle in Angola so Im touched to see the ANC, here for he was one of you. He quoted a verse in Psalm 41 for the Youth League as part of his thanks: Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them they are counted among the blessed in the land. The home was started in 1995 when Ngcangca started taking in children in the area, it was unplanned and I started taking in kids one by one. The five room orphanage now caters for 19 kids who have been abandoned and/or abused. Ngcangca points at the youngest child and recalls how he was left by his mother when he was only a few hours old. The orphanage operates out of Ngcangcas home, but she is worried that her own children will have the orphans removed once she has passed. She is therefore hoping to find a bigger place for her and the orphans, but there are very few funds to fulfil this dream.

Politicians on the spot

Eden Grove was filled with students and others keen to hear the answers to important questions from the mouths of the municipal election candidates. With Rhodes being an individual ward it is important that the students know who they are voting for. Rhodes University hosted a local election debate on 10 May 2011. The African National Congress (ANC), Congress of the people (Cope), Democratic Alliance (DA), Makana Independent New Deal (MIND) and Independent candidate Chris Mc Michael were all represented at the debate along with many of their supporters. Pics: Chelsea Nelson ANC candidate, Jeff Peires wanted to promote a positive attitude towards the countrys leaders. He encouraged the giving of time for education and promoted the public/private health care system. Peires and the ANC support the implementation of alternative energy sources as well as using the monetary resources made available to them for improving the water. Community involvement and better policing, he believes, is key to public safety. Peires caused a stir in the audience when he refused to answer the question about setting aside a partys own interests and addressing the needs of the people as it was posed by a non-South African student. Peires felt that the question was not appropriate. Cope candidate, Zukiswa Constance Mhlwatika, portrayed the idea that education was key to solving most of the issues asked about during this debate. They plan to use education to empower women and children. With regards to safety, Mhlwatika says that constant monitoring of police, improved lighting and informing the students about their rights and responsibilities regarding safety will be the best way to improve the safety of Grahamstown. They hope to improve community and student engagement and in so doing become proactive in improving everyones living standards. Brian Fargher of the DA aims to improve the management of the municipality, thus improving its financial status and its availability to the people. The DA support local health initiatives and the current health and education NGOs in Grahamstown. He hopes to improve infrastructure around the town through better management of this infrastructure. Reducing poverty and a more proactive municipality is what the DA believes will turn Grahamstown into a safer and more pleasant town to live in.

at the debate, it would appear that a number of political organisations believe that the public broadcaster demonstrates a clear bias towards the ruling party. The Democratic Alliances (DA) Michael Whisson said the current SABC programming does not ensure quality programming and diversity. Whisson argued that if the ANC was incapable of treating other parties equally, how would it be possible for impartial broadcasting under a ruling party? A dumbfounded audience could not help but wonder the same thing. Furthermore, to add to the criticism, Nozipo Plaatjie of the Congress of the People plainly said that the SABC is biased towards the ANC. Plaatjie pointed out that people in political power must not be employed by the SABC, as it is a public service provider. In agreement, The New Unity Movement represented by M P Giyose, said that news coverage in the Makana region in the recent period is not impartial, the SABCs impartiality exists only on paper not in reality. A speaker that stood out was Benjamin Fogel, the campaign manager for Chris McMichael. According to Fogel, the Eastern Cape needs more local content and the Eastern Cape is not being reported on to the extent that it should be. The media also must ensure different perspectives such as those of social movements. The audience was struck by the criticisms and opinions from all parties

A meeting of minds: Rhodes discusses the importance of media freedom in the Eastern Cape. as well as what the people of Grahamstown felt regarding this important issue. Statistics were revealed regarding interviews with the local people of Grahamstown and it seems many people in the focus groups revealed that they actually are content to a large extent with the SABC; contrary to what the party representatives were saying. Whilst people feel that etv is better than the SABC in terms of news coverage, the people of Grahamstown appreciate that the SABC broadcast in all 11 languages. When the locals were asked what they want from the SABC, they communicated that they want more youth programmes and celebrity news. Whilst there were overflowing criticisms highlighted in the debate, there is one thing that grasps the audience as a positive, and that is that the local people are engaging to some extent with the issues of the Eastern Cape and want to see improvement. Apathy seems to be on the decrease in Grahamstown, with the many issues faced in the Eastern Cape, and the municipal elections at the forefront in Grahamstown, this could not be better news.

Catherine Baytopp

Giving back to [the] community is never in vain, whether we question the motives behind it or not.
Ngcangca said she has been struggling to get aid from the Department of Social Development since 2002. One of the challenges they encounter as a home is that when the young men in the community see Rhodes students, particularly white students, they think they brought money to her and they come asking for money. She says the home is blessed especially through the exposure she has received through the media and she receives a lot of help from people. She remembers that one day Spar came in and gave her a voucher worth R4000. She also receives R3000 per month from a group of women in China who had read about the centre on the internet.

We have never slept a day without food, said Ngcangca. On behalf of these kids I say thank you. Their parents are at the same age as yours. Its great for them to see that they have other parents, she said to the ANC cadres. After hours of storytelling, games and singing, the time came for the ANCYL to depart. Sub regional convener, Andile Hoyi, made the closing statement, We are concerned as young people as to what happens to other young people. There are many parties that promise to do better but it is all lies. Go to Western Cape and you will see the bad living conditions people live under. At the end of it all Ngcangca walked the cadres out and her last words to them were: This was a very nice day to me. Thank you for making it a nice one. You have the keys to this home, so you are always welcomed. However, this act of kindness raised a number of questions as to whether this was a genuine kind act, or whether the home was used to get votes for the upcoming Municipal elections. The branch chairperson, Vuyokazi Gwayi, stated that this act of kindness had nothing to do with the approaching local government elections on 18 May 2011 and that it was part of their Freedom Week programme. I think it is fantastic that they are taking initiative. Giving back to [the] community is never in vain, whether we question the motives behind it or not, said Second Year B.S.S student Siya Sonandzi.

MINDs Carolene Brooks hopes to use their independent status to improve communication between the students, the community and their leaders. When implementing ideas they plan to monitor situations and plan to assess the impact on the community. Community awareness and involvement is very important to MIND and they want to be a voice for Ward 12.

Chris Mc Michael an independent candidate and a student at Rhodes University, made it clear that he did not intend to make promises that he was unlikely to keep and that as a student he is not able to do what a party can. He hopes to use his relationship with other students as a way to improve communication between the students and the councillors. He hopes to make resources on campus more accessible to the community and to improve the working relationship between the community and the university. He believes that because he is not accountable to a political party, he can only be accountable to the people he serves.

We have the right to vote and making an informed one is of the utmost importance. This debate proved to be successful in getting students thinking about who they will vote for and is a start in the relationship between the students and their future councillors.

Arts & Entertainment

Madien van der Merwe Show a little more, show a little less, add a little smoke, welcome to Burlesque. Chers husky voice filled the Rhodes University Box Theatre as people filed through the doors, eager for the 2011 production of Innovations. This years audience was treated to a spectacular display of first-year talent revolving around the theme of Burlesque on the nights of Friday 6 and Saturday 7 May. Innovations is an annual variety show run by the students for the students designed to create a platform from which young artists can springboard their careers and talents, according to this years Innovations administrator Roscoe Ratangee. During the last six weeks, student performers have been perfecting their pieces under the observant eye of the Innovations committee. On several occasions theyve had opportunities to receive expert criticism and advice from Masters Students and staff of the Drama department, all the better to hone their skills before their premiere performances. We cut down to the bare essentials. Only the best quality has been selected for the show, said Ratangee. After a gruelling application process including multiple auditions and call-backs, Innovations 2011 consisted of an array of ten performances, starting with The Writer, a scene from the UK comedy Extras performed by Stefan van der Vegte and Edward Pepperell, and ending with Ndumiso Ndlovus soulful rendition of John Legends Everybody Knows, which turned into a crowd favorite. Tackie, a mimed piece by Kelsey Stewart and Megan Wright, had the audience laughing at the antics of two deprived individuals battling it out on the playground of poverty, while the four performers of The Core, a silent piece, had the audience enraptured by their blank, white faces and precise physical movements. Other musical performances included Sphamandla Dlakwe and Matthew de Klerks poignant and unique version of Owl Citys Fireflies, the Les Miseribles song Stars sung by classical opera singer Vuyo Kumalo, and the Jazz Lounge/ Indie Cafe band Frans Mathubi, who made their debut on the Rhodes stage. Of course, Innovations would not be the same without the MCs, Sandi Dlangalala and Tyson Ngubeni, who had the audience in stitches with their moves, their wit, and their somewhat unconventional way of bidding farewell to the audience. An aesthetically pleasing and entertaining show is what Ratangee and his team wanted to give Rhodes, and that is certainly what we got. Ratangee commented; We are proud of Innovations 2011, and believe it will be the benchmark for future Innovations.

8 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

Do you have something to add? Email artsandentertainment@theoppidanpress.com

Pic sourced

Do you have something to add? Email artsandentertainment@theoppidanpress.com

Pic sourced

Welcome to Burlesque

Fest Focus
Antigone Sub-

Arts & Entertainment

Over the course of the past three decades, Grahamstowns annual National Arts Festival has grown from a side-project of the Grahamstown Foundation to the largest celebration of the arts on the continent. As a part of the Grahamstown community, Rhodes University and its artists continually distinguish themselves as leading innovators and performers during the NAF. The following previews are a selection of some of the finest artistic works offered by Rhodes students and staff at this years annual Festival, held from 30 June - 10 July 2011. We hope that this Fest Focus will compel and inspire you to support our artists as they push the boundaries of South African art. For complete booking information, go to www.nationalartsfestival.co.za.

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 9

David Williams Rhodes students from the music department will be showcasing a series of concerts at this years National Arts Festival. Having received recognition for performances in Bulgaria and Germany, music student Mia Pistorius will offer South African audiences a series of piano recitals that include compositions by Liszt, Beethoven and Lowell Liebermann. This will be Pistorius first time playing at the Arts Festival. Theres a lot of work to organise [in] a concert because there is so much admin. Its scary but its also exciting, said Pistorius. Rhodes pianists Jacques Du Plessis and Andrew Duncan will be performing a recital entitled 4 Hands. This duet will be including Faures Dolly Suite and Schuberts Fantasie in F minor. This will also be Duncan and Du Plessis debut performance at the Arts Festival. Du Plessis said that he feels nervous but also excited about the prospect of performing for a national audience.

Mia Pistorius, and 4 Hands

Ben Greaves Based on Sophocles classical play, MA student Jen Schneebergers Antigone is an exploration of the potential of the human voice. The piece is in many ways a continuation of Schneebergers earlier works, which also involved exploratory vocal work that pushed the boundaries of contemporary performance. As part of the so-called inTranceit programme in collaboration with other MA theatre-makers, Schneebergers piece is a site-specific work that promises its audience a tantalizing and atypical trip to the literal and methaphorical fringe of Festivals dramatic offerings. Vimbai Midzi Masters student Gavin Krastins Sub- explores the complexities of hierarchy as seen in political and social contexts. The play refers to anything beneath something else - a perpetual position that we find ourselves in throughout our lives. Krastin believes that where language fails, symbols take over. His piece is one of three under the group inTranceit, which consists of two other site-specific plays by Nadine Joseph and Jen Schneeberger. Breaking conventional boundaries, Subis set in nine different classrooms at Nombolelo Secondary School, as all three productions encourage audiences to search for theatre and actively take part in its creation.

Wet Paint

Tattoos, suspension and disbelief

Josh White and Ilze Moore Those who adorn their bodies with tattoos find themselves labelled almost immediately as neer-do-wells, a stigma that tattoo artists are doing much to shake as their creations become increasingly accepted as alternative modes of expression. At the Broken Lizzard Tattoo Art Expo on 14 May 2011, attendees were treated to a curious combination of tattoo exhibitions, live music, and a world record attempt body suspension, all in the surreal familiarity of Alec Mullins Hall. The events main organiser, John Wayne Stevens, a tattoo artist working at Grahamstowns Ink Saints, said that tattoos may range from traditional and/ or tribal symbols to images that are an outward expression of inner states or feelings. I have written my autobiography on my skin, said Stevens. Representatives from various tattoo studios were at the event, including Otherworld Tattoos and Damion Claassens from Port Elizabeth and Grahamstowns very own Ink Saints and Silver Dragon. Display booklets showed the various kinds of tattoos on offer from each studio. The selections included dragons, roses, and other entrancing images, demonstrating that tattoo art does not, as many might think, focus solely on the brutal or macabre. Many artists offered their own services at Mullins Hall for those willing to go under the needle. on Saturday, three hours longer than his previous record and a new South African best. In preparation for the ordeal, Stevens has meditated six hours a day, abstained from alcohol, and maintained a sturdy dietary regimen. Despite missing the record, Stevens felt nothing but accomplishment and pure adrenaline after coming down from his suspension. A day-long event, the exhibition was at first quite poorly attended, though many guests arrived later in the day. Several bands, presented by Rhodes Live Music Society, provided plenty of entertainment. Those whose creations were on display should be thanked for giving curious outsiders a more in-depth look into their craft, and one can only marvel at the endurance exhibited by Wayne and his co-worker Isabelle Horn during their suspensions. And for anyone who wants to try a body suspension and is looking for a way to pass the time, follow John Waynes example: play some video games to keep your mind off the effort.

Pic sourced

Plush wows crowd

Suzanne Smedley Its not every day that you get national favourites like Plush coming to Grahamstown, which might explain the roaring crowd of students that packed the Union on 4 May 2011 for a midweek concert. Avid fans and newcomers alike were treated to songs from their newer albums as well as those that made Plush a favourite amongst South Africans back in 2004. Rory Eliot (vocals and rhythm guitar), Emelio Gassibe (bass and vocals) and Carl Wegelin (lead guitar and vocals) created the kind of magical performance familiar to their fans. Many attendees had seen Plush perform several times, creating an atmosphere that was more reminiscent and celebratory than the usual gig. Audience members shouted with delight to the opening chords of My Baby, Halo, and their closing song Jet Life. First Year BJourn student Kristen Birch described the concert as vibrant, passionate and claustrophobic; [those were] the best three things about the performance. The road to fame has not been an easy one for Plush. The band grew out of the friendship of two Maritzburg College friends, Rory Elliot and Chaz Smit. As an acoustic duo they fought their way into the industry by winning the National Battle of the Bands in 2003. Tragedy struck soon afterwards when Smit was killed by a drunk driver. After originally dissolving the band, Elliot felt that he owed it to Smit to continue making music. By 2007, the new Plush had returned to returned to the charts with their number one single, When Grace Grew Tall. Plush have spent the better part of the last three years touring the United Kingdom and South Africa. It was a night of memories for all, as Elliot dedicated songs to his late friend Chaz Smit. Rory ended a well-received show with a shout-out: We love it here! This is where we come to let our hair down, thank you Rhodes!

Ananda Paver This exhibition by Rhodes Universitys own is an opportunity for Fine Art Masters students to show off their unfinished final examination pieces. All of the creations on show are works-in-progress, hence the title: Wet Paint. Professor Dominic Thorburn, head of the Fine Art Department, views this exhibition as an excellent opportunity to profile Rhodes Fine Art and our postgraduate offerings. The pieces will include work of various art mediums. Each MFA student will submit between one and three pieces, and the chance to showcase their work at Festival will allow them a collective sounding board for their work so far.

The Undergraduate Show

Ananda Paver A regular at the National Arts Festival, the undergraduate exhibition showcases the best work from Rhodess first to fourth year fine arts students. The specific works to be shown have not yet been finalised as this decision rests heavily on the results of the June exam assessments,which ensures the high standard of work necessary for a national platform. This show will no doubt have some fantastic artworks and is a great opportunity to witness the very best that Rhodes has to offer.

dis.clo.sure

I have written my autobiography on my skin.

One notable event was Stevens attempt to break the Guinness World Record for body suspension, a feat which involves hanging ones body from hooks inserted into temporary piercings. Though unable to beat the current eight hour world record, Stevens lasted for an astounding five and a half hours

Tarryn de Kock This year three MA Drama students will present a triple-bill enitled inTranceit. One of them is Nadine Joseph, whose piece, is entitled dis.clo.sure and explores the idea of recall and memory. The audience is taken on a literal journey to a post-apocalyptic site which simultaneously serves as a safe haven for the performers. By having an intense journey to and from the site, the experience of the audience contrasts with the experience of the performers, who undergo a catharsis through emotional and body memory. Emotions are crafted to manipulate the audience through physical manifestation; as Joseph says, Bodies dont lie.

Taste

Kristen Birch Rhodes MA student and director Debbie Robertson makes her Festival debut with a piece she describes as a comic thriller that blends aspects of realism and surrealism. Dumisa Lengwati, a student taking part in the production, feels that, like its director, Taste is a dark and comical play with anti-stereotypical characters. Its an enjoyable show [in which] seven talented people portray complex characters in a unique storyline, commented Lengwati. Robertson, for her part, aims to not only to entertain its audience but also to shock it: It has surprises up its sleeve at every turn!

Wreckage

we recommend
Listening to the infused sounds of American producer Danger Mouse and Italian composer Daniele Luppis Rome. Its taken five years of production and vintage recording equipment to create an album inspired by spaghetti Westerns. The clean muted guitar effects and added choir gives it that Western film score sound, only renewed thanks to Danger Mouse. And the bonus? Jack White and Norah Jones are featured on vocals. Its well made, well worth the listen and perfect for chilled sunsets. By David Williams

catching a showing of the acclaimed independent film. Winters Bone. Seventeen year old Ree Dolly works hard to provide for her shrinking family in the rural Ozarks, but her life is compounded when she is told she has just a week to find her absent father or risk losing her house and possessions to the justice system. A cutting and somber investigation of methamphetamine addiction and first-world poverty, Winters Bone combines the tragic depth of a novel with riveting yet subtle on-screen performances. By Ben Greaves

reading Graceland. Set in a Nigerian slum, Graceland tells the story of Elvis Oke, a young Elvis Presley impersonator who dances on the poverty-riddled streets of Nigeria to make a living. His struggles and complicated family life lead him into a world of cocaine-peddling, the black market and other underhanded dealings while he navigates his way into adulthood. Nigerian author Chris Abani describes the adversity, piles of fermenting rubbish and destitution of the slums and its inhabitants with a visual intensity that has you catching whiffs, noisy jangles and hardships of urban life. Graceland throbs with an energy and is definitely one to read. Available at the Rhodes Library. By Wilhelmina Maboja

Vimbai Midzi Wreckage emerged from the collaborative work of Rhodes own Professor Andrew Buckland, Juanita Firestone-Praeg, Brink Scholtz and Athina Vahla. For the first time, First Physicals movement and choreography will be meshed with the musical talent of Ubom! Based on Hazel Cramptons The Sunburnt Queen, the story centres on the social complexities that arise as a result of a shipwreck along the Wild Coast. Trapped in the meeting point between land and sea, the play explores the psychological landscape of wreckage, said Buckland. For him, the National Arts Festival is Christmas, and this performance definitely promises to be an early present.

Crying In Our Mother Tongue

Tarryn de Kock It is the true story of a family pieced together through a song sung by their ancestors, says Sifiso Sikhakhane of his first National Arts Festival work as a choreographer. Entitled The Language We Cry In, the piece is presented by Ubom! Eastern Cape Drama Company and Rhodes Drama Department, in collaboration with Amaphiko Township Dancers and the Kingswood College Band. Creating an exciting fusion of contemporary dance and live music, it intends to make audiences question their roots and will attempt to explore the intangible emotion contained in our ancestry using a simple metaphor: No matter what language people speak, they will always cry in their mother tongue.

Opinion
Matthew de Klerk Malema has done it again. Just when we thought it was safe to open a newspaper without reading another hateful, illogical and baseless rant from the ANC Youth League president, he opened his big mouth- this time in front of a crowd of nearly 3000 people at the Galeshewe stadium, just outside Kimberly. Malemas first targets were the ever-popular scapegoats, white people. Malema called them criminals, claiming that they took our land without paying. According to Malema, the government cannot afford to create jobs or build a university in the Northern Cape (a campaign promise that Jacob Zuma made in 2009) because there is no money. So where is the money? Well, Malema says that it is in the hands of the Oppenheimers, who mine diamonds right here in Kimberley and leave nothing behind. He added that the Youth League was not requesting permission to nationalise the countrys natural assets. In light of the spate of service deliv-

10 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

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Pic sourced

Malema does it again

ery strikes spreading across the country, Malema told off the spoilt brats who were burning tyres in townships on a tar road delivered to them by the ANC. To a cheering crowd, he said of the protesters: this person is watering his garden and behind him stands an RDP house and then he says he doesnt see delivery. We must never entertain such spoilt brats. He then went on to insult opposition parties, calling DA leader Helen Zille a dancing monkey from monkey town. You allow the madam to kiss your children when you know the madam does not care about your children. They kill our people when they confuse them with baboons. The madam will never be president, he said to cheers. He then said that the Pan African Congress was a spent force and the Inkatha Freedom Party was a mere cultural organisation. To top it all off, Malema came to the defence of Northern Cape ANC provincial chairman John Block, who has been implicated in a multi-million rand tender scandal related to the provision of medical oxygen and water purification plants. Malema called the charges against Block attacks on the integrity of the ANC. Its always a horrific and sickening experience whenever I read such baseless and racist comments made in the public sphere, to thousands of listeners. That such things can be allowed or tolerated is unfathomable. And what did Zuma, standing right behind Malema, do? The president urged people not to waste their votes on opposition parties and criticised those who planned not to vote as having fallen victim to effective propaganda.If you love yourself and you love your vote, why do you vote for a party that you know is going to lose anyway? What is the logic to vote to lose? he asked the roaring crowd, before performing his usual Awuleth' Umshini Wami. These fear tactics and the belittling of the other political parties are antidemocratic and anti-constitutional. Zumas failure to leash Malema and his unwillingness to do anything about Malemas absurd comments plainly show that the ANC are obsessed with one thing and one thing only: keeping power through whatever means possible, even if that means playing on the fears, misconceptions and prejudices

Bin Laden is deadnow what?

Amy Davidson Pic sourced The other morning I logged onto Facebook and scrolled down my newsfeed, casually scanning all the very uninteresting statuses and glancing at menial photos, when suddenly a slightly blurred and very unattractive Arab looking face jumped out at me. It belonged to the apparently now deceased Osama bin Laden. I am sure we have all heard the news of bin Ladens death by now, and if you havent then I suggest that its probably time for you to emerge out from whatever rock you are currently living beneath and take a deep breath of reality. I am not going to be one of those sceptics and angrily demand to see proof of bin Ladens lifeless body: that is quite honestly not a sight I wish to see. Yes, it does seem strange to wake up one morning to the news that one of the worlds most wanted men has been killed in his house with no warning, but I doubt that the CIA would readily label bin Laden as deceased without thorough prior investigation. We are talking about a guy that was on the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list and also offered a reward of over R350 million for his death. Apparently, extensive DNA tests were conducted to prove that it was

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Opinion

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 11

Julius Malema has no verbal filter when talking about politics held by the masses. By dehumanising and belittling the other political parties, and making such outlandish, crowdpleasing comments, the ANC will no doubt maintain its one-party position of power. Its a fearsome thought: will this hatred and idiocy continue for the years to come? If it does, I cannot imagine the South Africa we will live in under a president Julius Malema. Such illogical comments are similar to those of other presidents such as Muammar Gaddafi and Robert Mugabe. Will our future land swing the same way as the violent and oppressed Zimbabwe and Libya? Or will we finally do something to stop this big-mouthed bigot before its too late?

There has been much controversy around Osama Bin Ladens death, and whether or not he really is dead indeed Osama bin Laden who was shot in the head and chest, and President Obama himself viewed the pictures to be sure (although that probably doesnt count for much). Obama then announced to the world that no one else would be seeing this photographic evidence, stating that we don't trot out this stuff as trophies. Although if bin Laden were alive, dont you think he would have made a video by now to contradict the USs claims? Whether or not we can believe the US government and all that they say is very debatable, and everyone is more than entitled to hold an opinion as to whether bin Laden is dead or not. However, what we should really be worrying about now is what will happen next. Just because Osama bin Laden is dead, it doesnt mean Al Qaeda is now dead too. I think that the remaining Al Qaeda members are going to be pretty angry that their beloved leader has been killed by the enemy. So instead of being overly concerned about photographic evidence and genetic proof that we got the right guy, I think we should start worrying about what the next world news headline is going to be

The ignominy of ingratitude Boring kisses and bad fashion Student apathy
Matthew de Klerk I recently read an article on the Times Live website that infuriated me. According to this article, Atlantis, a poverty-stricken and crime-ridden area just outside of Cape Town, has undergone massive changes since the change of leadership from ANC to DA. In 2009, Helen Zille said the murder rate in Atlantis was thought to be among the highest in the country. Many employers and factories in the area have shut in recent years because of surging Chinese imports and the global economic crisis. The city, originally built by the apartheid government as an industrial city for coloureds, has been effectively transformed. Atlantis had always been an ANC stronghold but, in 2009, the tide turned when the ANC councillor for ward 32 resigned. DA councillor Barbara Rass won the by-election, and began to change things. The city of Cape Town spent R40 million on servicing 1835 plots, as well as on roads and drainage. Neighbourhoods in ward 32 have had floodlights installed, their parks revamped, and many overgrown bushy areas once used by criminals have been cleared. Most noticeable is the R14-million Witsand housing project of 200 two-bedroom eco-friendly homes, with energyefficient tiled roofs and, in many cases, solar-powered geysers. The province has approved the construction of 500 more houses. The DA hails Witsand as a success story, where its interventions helped reduce crime, improve healthcare and extend housing. DA mayoral candidate for Cape Town, Patricia de Lille, said that the Witsand housing project was a model of how the city, working with the provincial government and business, can create sustainable housing. The ANC supporters even admit that the change is noticeable. Witsand resident Nokwakakha Mhlawuli (now a first-time home owner) says that the DA built us the best houses ever built in the Western Cape. I have been staying in a shack since 1999. Life was tough in the shacks; they burned most of the time. I lost my home to fire twice and one of my children died in a shack fire. But now I can sleep properly with no fear of fire burning down my home and, since the rains started, we've seen no leaks, said the ardent ANC supporter wearing a DA T-shirt. Witsand informal settlement is the DA's greatest achievement. People came to me and said they wanted to build houses and their subsidies had been approved but they could not move forward. I started calling the housing officials in the city and province, she said. But despite the success, many residents say they will vote for the ANC. Joining the DA was just a strategy to get the development going. Some individuals among us decided to support the DA at the time because our councillor had failed us. We are now going to win this ward for the ANC come the elections," said resident Gcobani Limane. Witsand resident Elizabeth Nqampleni said it was true that the DA had changed our lives but she and others would vote for the ANC. We are all ANC in this area but we had a problem with our councillor. But on the 18th we will vote for the ANC, she said. From all this, Im sure you can grasp exactly why I felt so exasperated by the article. Whilst the ANC makes empty promises and absurd, crowd-pleasing comments, the other political parties are getting the job done. They are changing lives, and what do they get in return? I feel sorry for these misguided people: Surely if Atlantis falls back into the hands of the ANC, it will only return into its dilapidated state? Why anyone would continue to openly support an organisation that does not care for them and abandons them is beyond me: its totally illogical and self-destructive. But hey: thats political pride for you. Pic sourced Matthew de Klerk As a young boy, I always associated going to university with becoming a man. This would entail leaving the safety and idyllic carelessness of childhood to join a society where the members take firm stances to support and uphold the beliefs that they hold so dearly. Unfortunately, it has been almost the opposite. Students, instead of being outspoken and defiant, like the strong symbols of resistance seen at universities in many countries across the globe throughout history, are happy to just coast along. In fact, taking a stance has been reduced to such admin, bro. This tendency was clearly shown by the inability of the SRC to reach quorum last year. Voting, I must say, was the easiest thing to do. There was a direct link available on StudentZone: a tab from Facebook. It would have taken five minutes instead of posting an inane status about how drunk you got the previous night, to cast a vote. And still: too few voted; too few cared. A much more recent example would be the 1 in 9 Sexual Violence=Silence protest. Not on the female student bodys part (this years was the biggest in the history of the protest) but on the reactions to these protesters. According to a survey done in our last edition, over 55% of the protesters were verbally abused. Those who did so dont seem to care about the protest and its serious message enough to even show it a shred of respect. Meatless Monday seems to have suffered a similar fate. Walking past tables in the dining hall, they seem to be piling on the meat even more. For most, pork chops was still firmly on the menu. Unless the cause has direct relevance on their own life, students dont seem to care about much beyond their next assignment deadline and big night out. And yes, while there are a few doing much to further the various causes at Rhodes, they are far outnumbered by the many who are happy to just sit back, watch and do nothing.

The Rat Pack

by Stephen Mina

Were you one of the millions who just had to watch it? Ananda Paver "Go for it Will; now just a bit of tongue..." At least thats what I was expecting to hear the poncy Royal Wedding commentator suggest, especially since he had been waxing lyrical about the perfectly-timed Royal Kiss for a good half-hour. Im not sure if Im the only one who was disappointed, but I was expecting something a little less chaste after that tedious ceremony. I realise this is Britain were talking about but, really, I would not have been as excited as that crowd at a mere peck. Where was the passion? Where was that perfect fairytale moment? Why were there planes? Trust the royal family to issue a show of military force on such a joyful occasion. Kate may have been grinning, but Im not convinced: imagine having ones nuptials outshone by the military aircraft? However, my personal highlight was not the close to R3 million dress or the vows or even that pathetic excuse for a kiss, but the hats. Head gear of all shapes and sizes: some embodying the tasteful charm of the wedding, and others... well, not so much. The odd trend that prescribed perching a small hat in the middle of ones forehead was the brainchild of dubious Irish milliner Philip Treacy. This Gaga-esque design tripped up many a style-savvy celebrity, including Victoria Beckham; but none so much as poor Princess Beatrice whose bonnet resembled a cross between antlers and an octopus. Treacy said of his hats, I thought they looked gorgeous and beautiful. But no one is crying if anyone didnt. Which is definitely a good thing if they were we would certainly have an Alice in Wonderland situation on our hands. The Facebook page, Princess Beatrice's Ridiculous Royal Wedding Hat, dedicated to criticism of the fashion disaster has an impressive 136 300 likes. Comments on the hat include She looked like a creature from Dr Who and Do they live in a house without mirrors? But it wasnt only the upper crust donning millinery spectacles, Chito Salarza-Grant, a Fillopino hat maker, drew the attention of the media with his creation which he called his gift to the bride and groom. The hat was adorned with a multitude of union jacks, a couple of Beefeaters, various photos of the royal couple while on holiday and, most creepy, a toothbrush belonging to Williams old nanny. Overall, a royal wedding seems a decidedly unromantic affair: countless guests one neither knows nor likes and being forced to ride in a horse-drawn carriage despite the fact that one is allergic to the creatures. Yes: Kate Middleton is in fact allergic to horses. Oh the beautiful irony.

Letters
Editor: Lauren Granger Deputy Editor: Mikaila Thurgood Managing Editor: Lwandlekazi Gaga Marketing Managers: Jamie Bezuidenhout and Sin Rees Financial Manager: Munyaradzi Chapereka Distribution Managers: Ntombifuthi Phakathi Community Engagement Managers: Enathi Mqokeli and Neliswa Ntanda Chief Designer: Tselane Moiloa Assistant Chief Designers: Stephanie Pretorius and Motlagae Konyana Marketing and Advertising Designer: Amy Slatem Designers: Shavaughn Haack, Samkelisiwe Dlalisa, Chevawn Blum and Ayanda Mhlanga Cheif Sub-Editor: Nadia Moore Sub-Editors: Sarita Pillay and Wilhelmina Maboja Online Editors: Katherine Kirk and Maricelle Gouws Arts and Entertainment Editor: Benjamin Greaves Assistant Arts&Entertainment Editor: David Williams Environment Editor: Carina Truyts Features Editor: Bakhulule Maluleka News Editor: Benjamin Katz Assistant News Editor: Relebone Myambo Business Editor: Neo Khanyile Sci-Tech Editor: Muhammed Bemath Opinion Editor: Matthew de Klerk Pictures Editors: Chelsea Nelson, Storme Sydow and Binwe Adebayo Politics Editor: Leigh Hermon Politics Assistant Editor: Johnmark Kajese Sports Editor: Fabio De Dominicis www.theoppidanpress.com www.facebook.com/theoppidanpress www.twitter.com/theoppidanpress

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Environment
Green Eggs and Ham
Binwe Adebayo

12 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

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Cutting long-term hot water costs

Senior reporter Bruce Haynes factors. If the power goes off, for example, we have to manually go and reset a button, says Raja, the heat pump itself is a very effective system. This is all very well for those staying in res, but what about Oppidan students paying for their own electricity usage? What will the impact of the projected 20.38 % average increase on electricity rates (from 41.35c to 65.05c per kilowatt hour) be on digs student budget after July 2012? Eskom estimates that 40% of an average households electricity bill goes to heating water. At what point do you stop showering and start bathing out of a plastic bucket? According to Pittaway, separate tests with a solar water heater and a heat pump are being run on two chalets in the post graduate village. So far, with back-up of mains electricity, they have not experienced any problems. The drawback is the high initial cost, youre looking at anything from R10 000 upwards to install a solar water heater on your roof, he said. Digs property owners whose tenants are paying for the electricity costs are unlikely to altruistically invest in electricity-saving technologies. Will Rhodes University install more heat pump or solar water heater units over the coming years? If so, it could make sense to go for a once-off bulk contract. This would reduce costs per individual unit due to an economy of scale. Should such a bulk contract happen, it would be in students interests if digs property owners were encouraged by the SRC and Oppidan committee to take advantage of the reduced unit costs and come in on the deal. Bruce Haynes Binwe Adebayo

Business
Africa to take part in the 2011 JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge as it will give them the opportunity to enhance their financial literacy, which in turn will help them in securing a better future. We hope that more teachers will be involved and encourage their students to be part of this initiative, says Senior General Manager of JSE Education Maureen Dlamini. Andrew Warren, Executive at Liberty Retail SA Marketing, says: Liberty is committed to educating South Africas future leaders. The JSE/ Liberty Investment Challenge encourages learners and students to invest in their future wealth. The JSE and sponsors have invited corporate South Africa and individuals to adopt and sponsor a school taking part in the JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge or any other school of their choice currently not registered for the challenge. This initiative aims to assist schools from previously disadvantaged communities to trade and compete on the same footing as pupils from privileged schools.This is an opportunity for both public and private sectors to put their weight behind those that matter the most, the future leaders of this country. We encourage all corporations to come on board and join this invaluable programme, says Dlamini. According to Warren, Liberty values both long and short term investments. It is our honour to be a part of an initiative that encourages young South Africans to invest in their future wealth. The winners in the various categories are judged according to how much their investment grows in a particular month. The March winner for the Income portfolio is team Zibonele from Amabhele High School in Alice. Led by Wilberforce Magala, this team has set a great benchmark for other contenders in this portfolio, putting the Eastern Cape on the map. We are so happy to be crowned winners of the March round of the competition. We entered this competition to represent the Eastern Cape and I think we are doing a great job so far, says Magala. Sponsored by Imara SP Reid, a subsidiary of the Botswana financial services group Imara Holdings Limited, this ensemble earned an impressive income of R8 373, 32. According to Warren, Being financially savvy is an important element of wealth creation and we at Liberty are pleased to be a part of an initiative that enhances the lives of our youth. As we announce the first monthly winners of this years investment challenge, we hope that more learners will acknowledge that now is the time to invest in their futures.

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 13

Invest in your future: the 2011 JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge

Neo Khanyile f you enjoy finance, research and working in a team, you could be interested in The JSE and Liberty Investment Challenge. With no risk of losing actual money and loads of fun to be had, its an opportunity not to be missed. The competition is open to South African high school learners and university students. Registrations for the 2011 intake are now open and registration forms are available on the JSE/Liberty Investment Challenge website and the new interactive mobisite. The Investment Challenge officially started in March. However, there is still time to form a team of four members for scholars and two to four members for university students. Pic sourced

Carina Truyts

Understanding meatless-ness
I confess that last week Monday I timed my departure from the AMM (Journ) building to coincide with the streak of mostly- naked ROAR protestors, as they tried to raise anti- fur and leather awareness by dangling their private bits in the nipple- freezing cold. Who are these people? I thought. Well, they are more often than not a misrepresented bunch, stereotyped as bunny- huggers, veggies, and people who just dont get what canine teeth are for. The vegetarians are the ones that intrigue me. They exist on a sliding scale of meatlessness. On the far left we have that character in the film Notting Hill who thinks that the carrots have been murdered. Then there are the vegans, who dont indulge in any animal by-products, and an assortment of others who cut out either fish, chicken or red meat. As a chef, I used to be wary of vegetarians. Some dont bother to warn you about their dietary requirements. And then, when all your prep is done, with your beef fillet looking beautiful; you hear that you have to overhaul your menu. Lets just say that chefs often cuss vegetarians. Ive always had a thing for vegetables, but as a complement to meat. I could not comprehend a life without relish- smothered boerie rolls and real salami. An existence free of crispy bacon, in my mind, was a cup half-empty. At the beginning of this year, I heard that one of my new digs mates was a vegetarian. Panic gripped me: I envisioned my body reduced to lifelessness due to protein- deficiency, and visions of vegetarian sausages danced before my eyes. Then I considered the many environmental benefits of cutting out meat. According to the Food and Culture Organisation (FAO), livestock is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions, which is more than transport. Cows are pricey too; in our house a meal with beef in it costs about R30- R40 more than one without. We only eat meat once or twice a week now and so far my bones have held out pretty well. Ive also started giving vegetables their deserved respect- they add to the colour and crunch of my meals. I do pity my digsmate her loss of tender steak and winter lamb stew, but shes taught me that veggies, both the people and the food type, deserve equal love and respect. Youll never see me streak though. Green Eggs and Ham online will be featuring a vegetarian recipe this week. www.theoppidanpress.com

In the three new hilltop residences, Rhodes University is performing test runs using electricity-saving heat pump technology. In combination with motion-sensing corridor lights and the use of indigenous plants in the surrounding landscaping, Rhodes appears to be striving for a clean green impact. Saving electricity on heating water also makes economic sense. Were expecting a 22% to 25% increase in Eskom electricity costs this July, says Mr Clive Allcock, an independent contractor associated with the Estates Division, this is following on a similar size increase in 2010. Mr Calvin Pittaway, who is monitoring the project explains that A heat pump is basically an air conditioner that they use in reverse. He added that the Hilltop students have been happy with their hot water supply and that electricity usage is down. Nobuhle Hlangoti, the food and entertainment representative of Hilltop 2, agrees: Nobody that I know of in our res has had to wake up and have a cold shower. The only downside of these new systems for the students on our second floor would seem to be the noise. Brad Gehring, portfolio manager for Hilltop 3, confirms this continuous noise is due to a separate pressure pump. This pressure pump functions independently of the heat pump and is necessary to counteract the low water pressure up the hill. Viren Raja, a Hilltop 3 sub-warden, explains that these initial hot water supply problems were caused by external

This educational initiative teaches students and learners about investing through managing a virtual portfolio of R1 million. Entrants will need to select one or more risk portfolios that they wish to take part in. The portfolio options are Income (low risk), Equity Growth (moderate risk) and Speculator (high risk). Besides learning how to invest in the stock market, there are prizes up for grabs to the value of R240 000 plus an all expenses paid overseas trip. Last years winning students headed off to Morocco and visited the Casablanca stock exchange and explored the rich culture and renowned city of Rabat. Overall winners will be flown to Johannesburg from around SA to the awards ceremony which is held at the JSE every year. We encourage the youth of South

Bruce Haynes

Solar heaters installed on the roof can help reduce electricity costs in digs

A prickly predicament for Makana

Daniel Brandt Many people think of prickly pears as the beautiful fruit that you want to eat right now because its so tasty, but you have to break the exterior first and risk being spiked by a hairy invisible thorn. Although part of the Eastern Capes culture - prickly pears pose a predicament. Prof. Beinhart from the History department recently hosted a seminar about the issues surrounding prickly pears: Unintentionally, the prickly pear has become a large part of the cultural and social scene in the Eastern Cape. The fruit no longer holds the importance it once did as a source of food, alcohol and fodder, but it still provides a significant source of income for poor women. While many woman brew a beer called iqhilika, from the plant, most income is earned through selling the fruit. In some cases it provides more income per month than a state pension, doubling the income of many families. The selling is done at busy intersections and the side of roads. The beer is not highly alcoholic, at about 4% proof. Pic sourced Local brewers generally sell their beer to people within their local community, thus providing a social meeting point as well as keeping money circulating within the community, rather than to retailers or private shop owners. While the plant and its fruit have become socially embedded in the communities of the Eastern Cape, it still poses a problem as an ecological pest due to its invasiveness. The fact that it reproduces through its leaves as well as its seeds via animals that have eaten its fruit, means that this tenacious plant can spread incredibly quickly. It grows particularly well in soil with little or no plant life, a particular problem for livestock farmers as their animals would graze on the land, thus making it far more susceptible to prickly pear invasion. The most environmentally friendly way of dealing with the prickly pear is also the most labour intensive and literally requires a person to dig each plant out individually. Another way is in the form of biological control by introducing the plants natural enemies - the cochineal insects (originally from Australia). A critical mass of these insects needs to be present to actually reduce plant numbers. Landowners are legally required to remove the plant from their properties, although this is not really enforced. Ironically, according to Prof Beinhart, Makana municipality owns the greatest area of land with the highest concentration of the plant. This balance between ecological pest and economic production poses a very interesting predicament for the future.

101 trees to take root

Kate Janse van Rensburg There is a Chinese proverb that reads: The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the second best time is now. As part of Rhodes Universitys celebrations of 101 years of Student Governance, the SRC held a tree planting ceremony where six trees were planted at the Union Lawns on Thursday 12 May 2011. The trees were planted in association with the United Nations Billion Tree Campaign whose patrons include Prince Albert II, and Nobel Peace prize Laureate and founder of the Green Belt Movement Wangari Maathai. They are part of the one hundred and one trees that the SRC plan on planting within the Grahamstown area throughout 2011, as an environmental legacy that is part of the 101 year celebrations. 2011 has been declared by the United Nations as the International Year of Forests. This is to raise awareness to the fact that although 1.6 billion people rely on forests for their livelihoods, 13 million hectares of forests are destroyed annually. Grahamstowns trees are being planted for two main reasons: they will help with decreasing soil erosion and the tree planting as an initiative will help in raising awareness through education on how important conserving the natural vegetation within our world is. The programme is contributing towards the 13 billion trees per country that the United Nations Billion Tree Campaign hopes to achieve in the near future. Students that attended the tree planting were enthusiastic about having the opportunity to contribute to giving back to the environment and being part of a positive environmental legacy. The campaign is being headed by Kiarin Gillies, Rhodess SRC environmental representative, and there is sure to be call for student involvement throughout the year.

The learners from Amabhele High School, the March 2011 winners. (From left to right) Ayabulela Simelela, Mthunzi Swartbooi, Nontlahla Gqomfa and Yanga Makinana.

SAs increasing unemployment

Lee Crisp South Africa has always had a significant challenge in the area of employment and job creation. On Friday 4 May 2011, Stats SA released the unemployment indicators for the first quarter of 2011. The number of unemployed increased by 227 000, raising the official unemployment rate to 25% from 24% in the fourth quarter. The unofficial unemployment rate, which includes those people no longer seeking work, presents an even more dire position as it sits at 36.5%, up 1.1%. As if this situation could not get any worse, these figures are most worrying for those who are in the greatest need for employment. Due to the nations history, even 20 years after the inception of democracy, structural or skills-based unemployment remains the biggest cause of unemployment. Therefore, while the number of jobs available for skilled workers increased, low-skilled employment decreased. The Adcorp Employment Index indicated that there were approximately 829 800 unfilled positions for high-skilled workers across a wide range of occupations a number which includes a shortage of 432 100 technicians, 216 200 managers and 178 400 professionals. This is well reflected in the fact that the formal sector gained 56 000 jobs while the informal sector lost 46 000 jobs. Economists are concerned that if this downward trend is not dealt with Pic sourced

A beginners guide to: Investing in the stock market

Sisa Matabiswana As we each grow older, graduate, leave home and dream of one day living in mansions in the swanky suburbs of Houghton and Constantia, we should remind ourselves of this: growing older gets expensive. They say that you must always save for a rainy day, well with the global economy being what it is, let me be the first to encourage you to save for torrential floods and nonstop rain. One of the easiest most profitable places to start is by investing in the stock market. A stock market is a regulated exchange where shares are bought and sold daily. The South African stock market is formally known as the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). Profits are made from the increase in the value of your shares price, usually as a result of the company doing well, which means you will be able to sell them for more than you paid. One of the main things to always remember with investing in the stock market is that along with great profits come great risks. Basically, you should only invest with your spare money. It is also important to read up on what is happening in the global economic environment, as changes in factors such as the oil price and central bank decisions can have a positive and a negative effect on share prices. A recent article in Business Live, identified the lack of individuals investing in the stock market as largely a result of lack of knowledge. This, however, does not have to be the case as investing in the JSE is as easy as logging onto their website and following their tutorial. Contrary to popular belief, the stock market will not make you rich. Hard work, dedication and attending all your lectures is more likely to do that. What investing will do is give you a chance to make more than what you earn, and help you build a nice little nest egg for that first down payment on a car. Its never too soon to start thinking about the future, the same way as its never too soon to start realising that growing older gets expensive. Just a thought.

Pic sourced

The rising rate of unemployment is affecting millions of South Africans in an appropriate manner and in good time, it will begin to impact on the countrys long term growth. Unemployment, coupled with a significant brain drain, creates a bleak outcome for the economy in the long run. If anything, it is proof of the failure of government initiatives and the inefficiency of Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). The current trend will not change until there is a momentous shift in the approach to skills development. SETAs need to be monitored to ensure that the funds which they are allocated are appropriately managed and that large surpluses do not exist, when there is clearly a need for the money to be spent. Since equality is a pillar on which this nation is built, this is but one step in the movement towards the healing of yet another scar in our past.

SRC gets green fingers as part of a 101 years of student governance

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Sci-tech SciFest 2011: Better than ever

Jonathan Smith he first week of May saw the arrival of the long awaited SciFest Africa. The unique festival draws crowds from surrounding areas as well as far corners of the country. Since its inception, the Science festival has been held annually and usually in late March or early April. This year saw a sudden change, moving the festival to the first week of May, and part of the second week. If youve attended any of the workshops or merely browsed through the exhibition, then you would admit that it was surely worth the wait. Some people were sceptical about the event and its omission from the Rhodes Diary added weight to this notion. The festival may have come and and gone but it leaves behind students, teachers and lecturers with a craving for what science has to offer. Essentially, SciFest Africa featured

14 The Oppidan Press 19.05.11

Do you have something to add? Email scitech@theoppidanpress.com

Pic sourced

Do you have something to add? Email sports@theoppidanpress.com

a week-long series of events, including exhibitions, demonstrations, lectures, workshops and talk shows. Strolling past the exhibitions, one was likely to see science enthusiasts from various backgrounds, ranging from pre-primary students right up to senior university lecturers, interacting and freely taking part in the activities and exhibitions - questioning and discussing the wonders that science has to offer. According to James Ndebele, senior helper at the SciFest, you dont have to be a Rocket scientist wannabe or a Science geek to find interest at the SciFest - there are shows and stands catering for everyone at the same time based on science. Shows like the famous laser show once again saw impressive ticket sales. The exhibitions on display are interactive, with the majority of the displays inviting onlookers (students and teachers) to actively touch, push, pull, prod, listen, watch, squeeze, balance, feel or

even taste a multitude of items. SciFest Africas aim has been to change misconceptions and attitudes towards science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Through this popularisation of science, children and adults learn that science is fun and exciting, says Dr Schaefer, Resources Manager at the Rhodes Universitys Centre for Social Development. According to spokesperson and director of SciFest Africa Anja Fourie, the SciFest Africa festival this year was much more encompassing than previous years. For the first time exhibitions and the festival were tweaked in such a way that it offered the same educational content but this time appealing to onlookers and audiences of all ages. The first SciFest was held in 1997 and it has taken place every year since then with an attendance of over 40 000. Grahamstown, home of the National Arts Festival, is once again put on the map by being home to South Africas National Science Festival.

Hitting it up at Rhodes squash

Sarah King Fiona Christensen fter a brilliant year of squash in 2010, the Squash Club has certainly kept up their success with a great start to the year in 2011. League players are well into their stride this season having kicked off at the end of March. The Rhodes Squash Club has already hosted the annual Rhodes Open Tournament where many players, from far and wide, sweated it out on the courts for the number one title. Garren Kent, a talented squash player who placed 6th at the 2011 Rhodes Open Tournament and plays in the 1st league team, believes that squash at Rhodes is definitely on the up. We won the Port Elizabeth 2nd league last year and we have been promoted to play in the 1st league in 2011. It is really beneficial because the Grahamstown district is too weak for us, so we get the opportunity to improve by playing in PE every Tuesday night. Rhodes currently has seven league teams that compete weekly against other league teams around Grahamstown and the Eastern Cape. The Rhodes Open Tournament on the weekend of 29 April was a great success. Although there were fewer entrants than the previous year, Roxanne

Sports

The Oppidan Press 19.05.11 15

Fietze, a committee member of Rhodes Squash commented it was a tournament of quality not quantity. The finals were epic battles. In the mens final, Adrian Hansen beat Rudi Willemse 3-0 (12-10, 11-9, 12-10). I was left speechless for hours after the game, reported Travis Steenekamp, a social player at the club, who attended the final and thoroughly enjoyed the intense match between the top men. In the ladies final, Shanna Swart beat Kate Pearson 3-2 (5-15, 4-15, 15-10, 1715, 15-10) in a tight match. Everyone Sarah King

played exceptionally well, there was great sportsmanship and support, and Im certain everyone had a great time, said Swart, a committee member and avid player who placed first in the tournament. Squash members are currently playing weekly challenge matches in preparation for the University Sports South Africa tournament, taking place from the 4-8 July at Rhodes University. Players hope to do Rhodes proud on and off the court.

Depo-Provera The Oppidan Console vs. Nur-Isterate BulletStorm Review

Sithandwa Ngwetsheni

Depo-Provera and Nur-Isterate are the only forms of injectable contraception available in South Africa.

by Rhodes University Game Soc

Jonathan Funcke Bulletstorm was marketed for adults but really was designed for rebellious boys, with over-the-top swearing, violence and gore that place it beside the Kane & Lynch games. However, the constant foul language doesnt become an annoyance and (to give it credit) there is definitely a dynamic vocabulary of insults utilised. Sorting through the violent scenes and vulgar language, there is actually an interesting sci-fi plot that contains characters that have a believable depth to them. Their motivations are gradually explained, which acts as a good contrast to the craziness of the game. The story was certainly enjoyable, it is a plot that has outrageous moments simply for the fun of it, regardless of believability. There are quite a few laughable moments (usually in little dialogues between characters: Why is it so angry, did you destroy its nest or something? Umm, maybe!). Plot twists are common and even an unexpected voice is heard after the final credits roll. This is a game to be bought purely for its single player campaign. The multiplayer is unoriginal and plain; soon it will be hard to find people to compete with. Another interesting game dynamic: the character is given a small wrist-computer that is referred to as a Leash; the Leash scores the user on their combat performances from which the user can then purchase more ammo or unlock more guns. The plot excuse for this is that only the strongest soldiers would receive ammo to keep on fighting thus encouraging skill. In truth it is to let the player experiment with different ways to kill and to be rewarded more points for achieving more complex exterminations. Shoot Pic sourced

Depo-Provera and Nur-Isterate are injectable contraceptives used in most countries of the world. They may both be injectables, but they are different when it comes to their effects and to how they are used. Depo-Provera in generic terms is known as medroxyprogesterone. It is a form of progesterone that is injected into the muscle. Progesterone is a type of hormone that is able to prevent ovulation. With it brings changes in the cervical mucus by making it more acidic, making it less viable for the passage of sperm, thus preventing fertilisation. Depo-Provera doesnt only prevent pregnancy but it also prevents pains caused by endometriosis. Depo-Provera may sound like the best thing since oral contraceptives, but it also has its negative side: it can cause a severe loss in bone mineral density and that is why expects advise that this injection should be used for no more than two years. Depo-Provera lasts for up to three months in the female system. If one has the following disorders then it is advised not to use

it: abnormal vaginal bleeding, breast cancer or liver disease. A history of a stroke or even blood clotting is also included. Another widely used injectable contraceptive is known as Nur-Isterate and its chemical name is Norethindrone Enanthate . Nur-Isterate lasts for two months in the females system from its injection date. The norethisterone protects against pregnancy mainly by preventing ovulation, similar to the Depo-Provera. The injection works primarily by thickening cervical mucus, which makes it harder for sperm to swim through. The hormone may also thin the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to fertilisation. Nur-Isterate is not for use in most women and is a short-term injection contraception. Like Depo-Provera, it is not recommended to women who are diabetic, have blood clotting and who suffer from depression. Both Depo-Provera and NurIsterate are injections that are used to prevent pregnancies but they do not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. To help with that, it is advisable to always use a latex condom to improve the efficacy of contraception.

Emma Ollie in action on the Rhodes squash courts

Left to right: Joy Ridgard, Gwen Matthews and Carmen Foster are avid Rhodes University squash club players

Run Rhodent run! The new Super Rugby: superb or silly?

Morgan Collins Most complain about walking to class, but try running 21 kms or, even worse, 56 kms, and then walking to class. Not easy - and these kids do it for fun. Rhodes runners have literally been running all over the place. Starting off in Cape Town with the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon. 27 Rhodes runners completed the half marathon (21.1km) and six completed the Ultra marathon (56km). People singing, dancing, shaking with nerves created an electric vibe on the day, according to chairman of the Rhodes Athletic Club, Sean Swanepoel. This year saw double the number of Rhodents participating, receiving three silver medals and having Warrick Smith placed 50th in the half marathon. Out of the ultra marathon runners, the best Rhodent time went to Andrew Lowndes, who finished in a time of 4:19:48. This year saw the first South African win the Two Oceans since 2007, with South Africans also winning three gold medals in both the womens and mens categories. This was a major improvement to the solitary gold medal won last year. In the greater scheme of things, Rhodents have some work to do if they have hopes of breaking the top 10. The winning time of the Two Oceans went to South African George Ntshiliza in 03:08:31 for the men, and the Russian Olesya Nurgalieva in 03:33:58 for the women. Following Two Oceans, the Andre Van Collier Memorial Run, which doubles up as the EP half marathon champs, took place on 30 April. This was the third race in a set of four. This run took place on a flat route near the airport and Summerstrand, Port Elizabeth. Smith shone again as the fastest Rhodent, finishing in 1.28.08. Biting at his heels was Thoko Sipungu, who finished in 1.28.09 - both broke the traditional time needed for silver medals. Finishing times like these arent the result of regular walks to Pirates. Runners work hard preparing for these events, Swanepoel explained that you need to be running two to three times a week at a decent pace to prepare for a half marathon. Being able to run 10km in under an hour will see you manage a half marathon according to Swanepoel. Despite their levels of fitness, Swanepoel mentioned that most people had sore legs the following week. Its comforting to know that even seasoned runners walk away from marathons in a little bit of pain. Stefan Ploos van Amstel The new format of Super Rugby, implemented for the first time this year, has raised questions and controversy among experts and fans alike. Some are for it, others against, but there is no doubting that the latest edition of the Super Rugby tournament has divided the southern hemisphere rugby community. Once play gets under way, all the teams from each country are placed in one big log. After that, the teams are then divided into sub-divisions, which are called the Conference Tables. Each country has its own table. This emphasises derbies, where all the teams from the same country will play each other twice: a home and away leg. This system, however, means that each team will miss out on playing two overseas teams in the pool rounds: one from each of the other two conferences. This is a point of contention, as not everyone is in agreement with some teams not playing others. It is better for the fans, though, as rivalries will be intensified, and home fans will get to see their teams take on one another twice in one competition. When play-off time comes around, the winners of the conferences are granted play-off spots, but there is a twist. The highest two on the overall log get byes, as well as home semi-finals, for the following week. The third conference winner has to play the next highest three teams on the overall log, irrespective of their countries. These are virtual quarterfinals. A hot topic is how the new edition will affect the Tri-Nations and, more importantly, the Rugby World Cup. Kopano Sefako, loose-forward for The Hill, says: It is a treat for fans, as there are more games and more derbies, which will increase rivalries. The format is difficult to understand though. It is bad for SA, as our players are older than [those of] Australia and New Zealand, and their players

are peaking this year. This might mean trouble regarding our stamina and fitness for the World Cup. Zukisa Pityana, front rower for the Troopers, said: The new format is confusing, and I dont see the benefit. It is good that there are more teams and more games, but it is bad timing to introduce the long format, as it is a World Cup year. Despite the controversy, no one can argue with quantity of quality rugby available to fans. Since this is a World Cup year, it is only going to get better.

Common mistakes when using contraceptives

1. Failure to follow the instructions for a given method of birth control exactly as directed is a key cause of contraceptive failure. If you're using oral contraceptives, taking them at exactly the same time every single day greatly reduces any chance of contraceptive failure and unplanned pregnancy. 2. Inconsistent use - Forgetting to take just one birth control pill significantly raises your risk of becoming pregnant; forgetting to take more than one oral contraceptive in a month means that you should use an alternative contraceptive for the remainder of that menstrual cycle. 3. Condom damage - Condoms that break or have even the smallest tear also often led to unplanned pregnancy. Causes of condom damage include improper use, inadequate use of a water-based lubricant, using condoms past the expiration date and improper storage. Jewellery, fingernails, and other objects may create tiny tears in condoms that render them ineffective. If condoms are your choice of contraception, make sure to use a vaginal spermicide to decrease your risk of unplanned pregnancy should condom damage occur. 4. Drug interactions - If you're using oral contraceptives check with your doctor and / or pharmacist for any possible drug interactions that may reduce the effectiveness of your birth control pill.

Learning multiple ways of killing is the aim of sci-fi game, Bulletstorm an enemy in the chest? (Boring) 10 points. Throat-shot? 50 points leashing him to you, firing a rocket up his rectum and sending him flying into a wall of spikes, only to explode into a hundred chunks of meat? 1000 points! And double if you can do it while intoxicated! My conclusion to this game is simple: this is a teenage, alcohol abusing, Alistair in Wonderland and it is FUN! Dont buy it though. Rather rent the console version for an evening of madness, since you can easily complete it in one or two sittings. Or simply wait for a price drop.

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Sports
Georgia beckons for Chikaka
Sean Black

IF YOU READ NOTHING ELSE...

The bin Laden files

Page 6

hodes has one of its very own rugby players jetting off to Georgia for this years International Rugby Board (IRB) Junior World Rugby Tournament. Tatenda Chikaka, a resident of De Beers House and a player for The Troopers, has been chosen to represent Zimbabwe. The tournament is a second tier international rugby union competition which is contested between eight

junior national teams, with players under the age of 20. The teams taking part in the contest include: Russia, Samoa, Uruguay, USA, Canada, Georgia, Japan and Zimbabwe. Clearly this isnt a second rate tournament this is top class rugby. Being selected is no easy feat, as Chikaka pointed out, the selection process began last year and it involved being picked from a handful of up-andcoming players and undergoing gruelling training sessions and various rugby camps over the December period.

This was a chance I couldnt just pass up, Chikaka said of his selection. He will be studying mainly from home and has made the necessary arrangements with the University. Chikaka said that his parents are extremely supportive of this recent development. Chikaka will play in the lock position and he certainly fits the profile of a lock quite perfectly tall and strong (interestingly though, he usually plays flank). His physique is rather intimidating

to anyone who might stand next to him. However, Tatenda is really one of the most enjoyable people to be around. Chikaka stated that he is extremely psyched to be heading off to Georgia. The passion he has for the game is apparent as he spoke about perhaps becoming a professional, but he is still committed to his studies and even plans to study abroad. The tournament runs from 19 May until 6 June 2011. As Rhodents, we give him our full support and best-wishes for his time spent in Europe.

Indian Premier League: Just too much?

Fabio De Dominicis As an avid sports fan, I never thought Id complain about too much sport. Yet this years Indian Premier League (IPL) Pro 20 tournament seems to have stretched the boundary (no pun intended) just a little too far. Cricket has been perennially described as the gentlemens game. However, due to dwindling crowds, officials introduced the 20-over format, providing jubilant supporters with action-packed, big-hitting entertainment. Yet this years IPL seems to have lost its initial spice. This can be explained by a number of reasons. Firstly, the Cricket World Cup took place this year. Despite shortening the tournament, the competition ran over a period of almost two months, a lengthy time for even the most devoted fan to follow. However, less than a week after this auspicious event, we saw the grand opening of the 2011 IPL season, and the start of another two months of cricket. Cricketers and supporters alike were unable to get a breather, moving straight from the 50 over format into the Pro 20 version at the blink of an eye. Having just watched two cricket matches a day over the World Cup, fans were overwhelmed at the prospect of another eight weeks of very much the same. The excitement of Indias victory had barely waned when members of the very same World Cup winning side were squaring off against each other for their respective franchises. The chopping and changing of players in the teams has also perturbed many fans. For many international followers, they backed teams in which their favourite countrymen featured. However, there is no consistency in this regard, with a large number of players switching teams in search of higher wages. This showcases the extreme commercial value of the tournament, revealed by the exorbitant prices that players were auctioned for prior to the start of the league. Additonally, the elongated tournament runs over the same period as various other sporting events. The month of May sees the business end of most major soccer leagues across the world, as well as the knockout phases of the UEFA Champions League. Sports fans also have Super 15 rugby to consider, not forgetting the on-going Formula 1, tennis and golf tournaments. With the array of sport at the disposal of fans, the IPL is taking a back seat. With matches taking over four hours to complete, many simply do not have the time to squeeze in IPL games into their busy schedules. For the record, Mumbai Indians currently top the 2011 IPL standings, and look in good knock to reach the 28 May 2011 final. However, come the end of May, many fans will be glad at the prospect of giving the gentlemans game a tea-break.

Sarah Kingon

Sarah Kingon

Lance Ho, a member of the Rhodes University Archery Club, is being considered to represent South Africa at the World University Games in China

X marks the spot for Naude

Denzil de Klerk During the April holiday Grahamstown hosted the South African National Archery Championship. Rhodess very own Simon Naude, a member of the Rhodes University Archery Club, did the University proud by winning the bronze medal. Naude took part in the 720. This is where targets are 50 metres away and each archer shoots 72 arrows in two rounds, after which scores are calculated to see who goes through to the next round. In the first round Naude came seventh. He then went on to qualify for the elimination round. In the elimination round Naude battled it out against fierce competition, performing very well and eventually ended up shooting for the bronze medal. The bronze medal shootout was incredibly exciting as it saw an evenly-matched competition which was taken to the very end to produce a victory. After four ends of shooting, Naude ended up with an equal score to his opponent. This then required a sudden death round. In sudden death, each participant is allowed one shot only, and the arrow that is closest to the X (centre of the target), is the winner of the bronze medal. After Naudes opponent shot a 10 (second best value on the target), Naude was under great pressure to hit the X in order to win. With an excellent shot in the middle of the target, Naude became the bronze medal winner. Being new in the sport of archery, with only one appearance at nationals prior to this years event, Naude is a definite talent to watch out for. Naude, as well as Rhodes Lance Ho, are both being considered to represent the South Africa team at the World University Games in China later this year. Next year sees Naude moving on to the Mens Compound division at nationals, where the competition will definitely be tougher. Naude is, however, confident in his ability and shows great commitment to the sport, which is evident from his training routines at 6:00 daily.

Simon Naude, winner of a bronze medal at the South African National Archery Championship

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