They say that one should never discuss politics in a pub and, in most cases, this somewhat simple rule of etiquette is justified.
However, on May 8, the day that the country united at the polls to make their mark for a better future for all in the 2019 national elections, local pub owner, Michael Phytides, invited community members who took part in the voting process to pop in for a drink or two and celebrate, as well as discuss, their right to vote.
Phytides, who is a family man and proud member of the Vryheid community, explains that he has every intention of sticking around for a very long time and actively contributing to the upliftment of the town where he plans to raise his children and build a better future for his family and friends.
“Everybody talks about leaving when the going gets tough,” he states. “But I don’t want to leave. I love this town,” he adds passionately. “And I want to be a part of making it better for everyone. That’s why I cast my vote today in the elections. I want to play an active role in our future as a country and, even more so, in the betterment of our community…”
The general feeling throughout the crowd of locals who took Phytides up on his offer, was a mixture of contentment that they had done their duty as citizens, relief that election day was almost over and, in many cases, disbelief that the process had run so smoothly throughout Vryheid.
“We were quite shocked,” remarked Stella Loots. “We voted at the Cecil Emmett voting station at Vryheid Pigeon Club and the whole process only took us a few minutes…”
Martin Meyer, who was also part of the #IMadeMyMark crowd who gathered for the celebration at the pub, had a strong message for those who chose not to vote on May 8…
“If you don’t vote, don’t complain,” he states.
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Also read: There’s more to Michael than meets the eye
Also read: Election 2019 – Voters visit NRS sports grounds to make their mark #IMadeMyMark
