A few interesting snippets from the week:
On a visit to a supermarket in a nearby mall, I was shocked to find the butchery counter’s glass completely smashed — yet they were still selling meat from the same freezer. What a health hazard. I reported it to management and can only hope they take swift action.
Still on health and safety — a friend recently said it’s dangerous to walk in Wynberg, Cape Town, even during the day. True, if you go looking for trouble, you’ll find it. I was there again today for some shopping. The main road has become rather seedy, but it’s still vibrant and full of life. Fortunately, my visit went off without incident.
If you’re looking for an example of smart manufacturing, take a look at what’s happening in Buffalo, New York. An old General Motors plant from the 1920s has been rebuilt for green battery production — and it’s fitting beautifully into the community.
Battery manufacturer bets big on brownfield site in Buffalo, New York
It’s International Chess Day — checkmate your challenges with strategy.
On this date: The Second Boer War began on 11 October 1899 — a historic clash that helped shape South Africa’s resilient spirit.
For music lovers: I recently discovered that Black Magic Woman was actually written by Peter Green, founder of Fleetwood Mac. His original version is raw, bluesy, and powerful — pure genius compared to the smoother but pop guitar ballad renditions. Have a listen:
Peter Green – Black Magic Woman
Which brings me back to that supermarket safety concern. I just couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that shattered glass freezer filled with meat. How can a business operate like this? Why not remove the food, seal the area, and put up a warning sign? When I spoke to an assistant manager, he didn’t even know about it. Surely every staff member should be aware.
You can’t buy food in an unsafe environment. You can’t work safely if your surroundings are hazardous. It’s common sense — and yet, we see the same neglect everywhere. Some municipal buildings, for instance, have fire extinguishers that were last checked two or three years ago.
Why does this keep happening? Don’t businesses and public services have basic safety checks?
Anyway, let’s stay positive — and hope someone, somewhere, fixes what’s broken.
