Issue 183 - FREE
6
JULY 2018
Community News. Original - accurate - first
017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)
Looters continued ransacking the shops long after the main body of protestors have been dispersed by the Police. Story on page 3
Budget passed “It doesn’t matter what the opposition say, we will push it through!” the words of MMC Ethel Nkosi still rings in the ears of the opposition as the ANC approved the Budget despite the opposition’s disapproval. In a council meeting on Friday 29 July, the ANC used its majority to approve a budget where figures have been juggled to make the books balance. The mayor used her powers to move figures around to make an R173m deficit disappear. “The deficit is still there” said Cllr Ciska Jordaan, Caucua leader of the DA, in an interview with the Bulletin after the council meeting. The meeting started on a heated note when opposition parties accused the ANC of misleading the parties as
well as the public. There had been a meeting with all the parties in council where agreements have been reached regarding the budget and the extraordinary council meeting. None of these agreements have been kept by the ANC. One of the reasons for not keeping to the agreement, as per Cllr Dan Mhlapo, “but you counted our councillors” The budget was passed on the back of violent protest actions that saw protestors destroying eMbalenhle Mall. The protests became so violent that the Mpumalanga premier had to address the protestors at the Risko Fakude stadium in eMbalenhle. A special deal was also struck with the 9 ANC to bring them back into the ANC fold.
The details of this deal is not known. It was clear though that the G9, as they are called, were in a very jovial mood during the council meeting. In an attempt to restore calm, Premier Mtsweni made multiple promises to the residents of Govan Mbeki, including: Electricity will be directly supplied by Eskom, A committee will be established to investigate allegations of corruption in the municipality, and that there will be a special council meeting for the approval of the GMM budget. In a statement James Masango MPL and DA spokesperson on CoGTA said that part of the reason why Govan Mbeki Municipality owes Eskom over R524 million is that there is no accurate
billing system, meaning that they do not know who owes them what and for which services rendered. In order to give the electricity provision mandate over to Eskom, the municipality will first have to address its billing crisis which could take years. Currently, four Mpumalanga municipalities are on the top 10 list of municipalities that are failing to pay Eskom. Many more municipalities live with the constant threat of having their bulk electricity supply interrupted because they cannot service their accounts. Simply cutting out the municipality as the provider of electricity will not erase the billions owed to the power utility. Continued to page 5
NEWS
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6 July 2018
Acting MM gets the boot The acting Municipal manager were recalled by the MEC Co-Operative Governance and Traditional affairs, Hon SK Mashilo on Friday 29 June. No clear explanation was given to council regarding the recalling of Mr Tisha Mhlangu. Opposition parties were opposed the recalling of the acting MM as he clearly started to address some issues regarding mismanagement of municipal funds. Audit report findings to be investigated Councill took a decision on Friday 29 June to ask the MEC for Cogta to investigate findings of the 2016/2017 audit report. The Bulletin reported on the Audit findings in our 6 April publication. The following is an excerpt from that report. • Paragraph 4.2.1. Unauthorised, Irregular, Fruitless and Wasteful
expenditure incurred by the municipality was not investigated to determine if any person is liable for the expenditure, as required by section 32(2)(a) and 32(2)(b) of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA). • Paragraph 4.2.22. Persons in service of the municipality whose family members had a private business interest in contracts awarded by the municipality failed to disclose such interest, in contravention of SCM regulation 46(2)(e) and the code of conduct for staff members issued in terms of the Municipal Systems Act. • Paragraph 4.2.26. The contract performance and monitoring measures and methods were insufficient to ensure effective contract management, in contravention of section 116(2)(c) of the MFMA The audit report paints a bleak picture of how GMM affairs are run.
10 years for burglary Mzwandile William Kgabo (25) was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment at Evander Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday 26 June. The accused was arrested following a housebreaking incident in Lebohang on 17 October 2017. The complainant, a woman from Lebohang, alleged that she left her home at 08:30 on the day, locking up and returning at about 10:00 on the same day. When she arrived, she noticed that her kitchen door had been forced open with an instrument that she was not sure of. She entered her home and on further inspection, found that two boxes
that had contained Adidas children’s shoes with a combined value of R1400 were missing from her bedroom. She reported the incident to the police and a case docket was opened. As police investigated, witnesses
whom the perpetrator had tried to sell the shoes to were found, subsequently leading to Kgabo’s arrest. The final outcome of the perpetrator’s trial is a 10-year imprisonment.
Security personnel accused of looting Security personnel working at eMbalenhle Mall were arrested on Sunday 1 July for possession of suspected stolen property. Police arrested five suspects at Mpumalanga Guest House after receiving a tip off on Sunday afternoon. Four of the suspects work for a company that provides security services
to eMbalenhle Mall. All items are suspected to be looted from different shops during the past week’s protest. Items include clothes, watches, cellphones and bottles of whiskey worth an estimated amount of R120 000. All five suspects are expected to appear in Evander Magistrate’s Court soon.
NEWS
6 July 2018
Violence triumphs Mayor Violence erupted on Sunday night in protests against Govan Mbeki Municipality. Initial reasons cited as the poor service delivery so visibly obvious in eMbalenhle. This later manifested in one main reason namely Power supply. Residents demanded that the payment of Eskom accounts should be paid directly to Eskom. This sentiment surfaced in the past with Opposition parties as well as residents calling for the power supply and subsequent payment should be handed back to Eskom. Protest actions also surfaced in the past regarding the Eskom debt as well as the intermittent supply. The violence associated with these protests were totally different and on a different level of intensity. It was clear that the residents of eMbalenhle had one outcome in mind and would not relent until that goal has been reached. The 9 ANC councillors (G9 as they are called) fuelled the protests when they had meetings with the residents and explaining about the service delivery issues. G9 were strangely absent when the protest violence escalated. The protestors were organised and challenged the police on every area. Some of the protestors had slingshots and “Ketties”, increasing the reach of their stone missiles tremendously. All the roads at eMbalenhle were sealed off to traffic. It was not long before some of the small shops started to feel the brunt of the protests. As darkness fell the smaller shops were simply broken open and cleaned out. Some of the foreign shop owners removed stock long before the trouble reached them. As tyres burned on the streets, road signs and roadside stalls were also destroyed to get to the wooden poles that can be used in the fires. As the Bulletin reported live, so did the claims of the police using life ammunition (sharp point) increased. The Bulletin could find no evidence of any sharp point ammunition used. There were reports of some taxis
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shooting at the protestors but this could also not be substantiated. On Monday night the Mall@eMba was looted and set alight, sparking outrage all over the country at the most senseless act of letting a mall burn to the ground. The Bulletin managed to visit the mall when a small section was burning and found shops emptied of their merchandise. Especially cell phone shops and clothing shops. The glass panels were simply kicked out of their frames so that the looters could gain access to the shops. The Bulletin moved towards the back of the mall to where Pick & pay is situated and found looters still trying to gather more merchandise that they can carry out. The fire started in the OK store and GMM Fire department had to negotiate all the rubble on the road to reach the mall. Two Fire Trucks responded but struggled to maintain the fire. It eventually spread to the rest of the mall destroying about 2 thirds of the entire mall. When the Bulletin reporter drove back to Secunda he was met with a group of protestors that started to throw stones at him. Only the police presence ensured his escape. The violence continued on Tuesday morning with one or two cars set alight. When the Bulletin enquired about interaction from the Executive Mayor and het committee with the protestor, we were told that there had been no effort from the mayor to speak to any of the protest organisers. In the press conference that the mayor called on Wednesday it became evident that the mayor had a meeting on Sunday with the G9 councillors and did not think it significant enough to have another meeting with them on Monday or Tuesday when the violence erupted. The protestors eventually called for the President to come and address them but were content to have Mpumalanga premier address them on Thursday. The Premier promised the protestors that Eskom will revert back to Eskom,
that the Acting Municipal Manager will be recalled and that the budget will be passed (see our article about the budget elsewhere in this publication). All of these promises were made before the council even had time to discuss the issues. The Violence eventually stopped and once the roads cleared the full extend became clear. It also became clear that the Mayor were not going to address this problem but had no choice when it became clear that the violence will not just subside. An agreement was reached with the G9 councillors when the premier intervened. Opposition parties were also asking for the premier to intervene in the affairs of GMM. James masango MPL and DA spokes person on CoGTA said in a press statement “The DA has repeatedly engaged with Refliwe Mtsweni when she was CoGTA MEC and when she became Premier to ring-fence money due to Eskom and to consider increasing Eskom pay points to make it easier for residents to settle their debt, all of which Premier Mtsweni ignored until violent protests broke out.” He further stated, “If Premier Mtsweni truly cared about addressing the legacy of corruption left by her predecessor, David Mabuza, she would not make empty promises but strive towards ensuring clean and accountable governance, much like in the many municipalities where the DA governs. The people of Mpumalanga deserve change that puts them first and delivers services”
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WHAT’S UP/News
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So is die lewe
• 017 631 1903 • 017 631 1845 Wie is ons / Who are we: Redaksie / Editorial 017 631 1903
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Ds Marius Britz Hierdie storie klink onwaarskynlik, so ook die plek waar ek sit en skrywe, genaamd Plooysburg, maar dis die waarheid. Baie toeriste sak naweke en vakansietye op die weskus toe
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Distribution: We pride ourselves in delivering a Bulletin to businesses in Secunda, Trichardt, Evander and Bethal and Kriel. We also distribute additional copies to several points of business in Kinross and eMbalenhle. Should you have a delivery enquiry or complaint, send us an email containing your name, contact details and home address to admin@thebulletin. co.za. COPYRIGHT All rights of reproduction of all reports, photographs, drawings and other materials are hereby expressively reserved in terms of section 12 (7) of the Copyright Act No 96 of 1978 and any amendments thereof. Banking details: The Bulletin Absa RBB Commercial Secunda Branch code: 637256 Account number: 408 499 2285 Checque /Current account
I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued my faithfulness to you.
Jeremiah 31:3
6 July 2018
WHAT’S UP Sasol Digi Mag Rugby Practice @ Sasol Club – Every Tuesday and Thursday @18:00 to 20:00. Contact Theuns Kruger Club Captain 0n 082 602 4035 22 June – 14 July Spcae Park, Secunda Mall, For more details contact 010 001 0254 or visit www.shopsecundamall.co.za 21 July, Laerskool Kruinpark Hokkiedag te Kruinpark vanaf 08:00 – 13:00 21 July, Health is wealth osted by SACBW and FitCity at Basement Lake Umuzi, 09:00 27 July, Die Kruik Nagmark aangebied deur Kruik, 16:00 – 20:00
om die blou lug, die wit sand, die soel, luilekkersomersdae met die vlieërbranderplankry en groot seiljagte wat stadig oor die blou water van die strandmeer skeur, te geniet. By vele restaurante sit vakansiegangers tot laatnag op die sypaadjies en lag en kuier. Op die oog af heel idillies. Maar dikwels raak jy, ‘n weskusinkommer uit Mpumalanga, onrustig, en raak die weskus se deugdes wat so besing word in soetsappige liedjies, vir jou effe oordrewe. Jy raak akuut bewus van die spreuk: “Repois alleurs.” Rus is elders. Dan galm Coenie de Villiers se lied “Daar’s ‘n plek wat ek van weet, sonder sorge, sonder pyn, sonder leed”, harder as enige weskusliedjie oor bokkoms en snoek. Want vir my is die wêreld groter as Langebaan en Kaapstad. Vir die meeste gebore Kapenaars bestaan die wêreld uit die Kaap, dan mooi berge by die Paarl, en anderkant die berge is dit Johannesburg. Sommer ‘n plek, waar baie Kapenaars nog nooit was nie. So vat ons toe die N1 verby Worcester, noord. In Kaapse definisie is ons nou in Johannesburg. Maar anderkant Matjiesfontein raak die omgewing bykans ongemerk anders, kaler, meer weerloos. By Laingsburg verby, daar oor die brug waar die groot vloed van 1981 oorgespoel het, sak die Grote op jou toe, die karoo. Die bordjie “Moordenaarskaroo” vertel al klaar iets van hierdie uitgestrekte landskap, die verlatenheid van ‘n onherbergsame aarde waarin die
misdadigers uit die Kaap vroeër jare kon wegraak, veilig uit die visier van die geregsdienaars. En dan, eensklaps, is jy in ‘n ander wêreld, met ‘n vermoedenis dat jy iets van die ewigheid begin beleef, die plat aarde wat beklemtoon word deur ‘n koppie of ‘n rant hier en daar, waar die waterringe uit oertye verklap dat hier miljoene jare gelede ‘n groot see of meer was. Die wydsheid van die kaal karoo word ‘n warm karos vir ‘n koue hart; dit verplaas jou vanuit ‘n afgemete, voorspelbare voorstedelike bestaan na ‘n ander lewe, waar tyd en ewigheid saam met jou beweeg, soos die telefoondrade langs die pad. Anderkant Leeu-Gamka ry jy kilometers vêr langs die Blou Trein, en sien treinreisigers wat by die vensters sit en die wondermooi landskap van niksheid betrag met ‘n bottel Kaapse rooiwyn wat afglip soos satyn. En so loop jou pad, jou reis na vrede: BeaufortWes, Drie Susters, VictoriaWes, Strydenburg, Britstown, Hopetown verby. Die stilte van die karoo is mooier as die grootste simfonie. “Hemingway and I, felt deeply in love with the land”, het Peter Sarstead oor Afrika geskryf. En jy besef: jy is vir hierdie deel van God se aarde, sonder berge en see en wit strande, hartstogtelik lief. Oplaas, laataand, arriveer jy by jou private stukkie hemel op die soom van die Groot Karoo. Wanneer jy ná twaalf ure op die pad stop voor jou beskeie nagmaalshuisie uit die ou tyd, raas die stilte sÓ dat jou ore suis. Miljoene karoonagsterre betrag jou nuuskierig vanuit ‘n pikswart, liglose hemel. Wanneer jy die voordeur van jou eeu-oue huisie oopstoot, en sien dat alles twee jaar na jou laaste kuier nog presies op hul plek is, ondanks die feit dat die huis geen wagte of diefwering of sekuriteitsligte het nie, weet jy: jy het vrede gekry. Jy is in die voorportaal van die hemel. God is net ‘n hartklop vêr. Die ewigheid kom lê volledig in jou. Eensklaps. Onteenseglik. Die enigste tekens van lewe laataand
op die klein dorpie is die jakkalse wat hartseer weeklaag, net hier anderkant jou, die pikswart donkie wat in die stofpad verbyloop, en die koedoes wat langs die begraafplaas staan en wei. Omdat jy moeg is na die lang rit, los jy sommer jou skootrekenaar, selfoon, (wat in elk geval nie hier werk nie), en jou kamera op die stoeptafel. Moreoggend sal dit steeds daar wees. As die son opkom, lyk die dorpie presies dieselfde as wat jy onthou. Die bekende ou huise, die rant wat beskermend die paar geboutjies toevou. Die begraafplaas met sy ou grafte van vorige geslagte. Die rye onbekende kindergraffies wat waarskynlik uit die Groot Griep, of selfs die Anglo-Boereoorlog dateer. Wanneer jy met jou wandelstok tussen die grafstene deurloop, word dit jou as oud-dominee se persoonlike pelgrimstog na die verlede. Die legendariese oom Kellie en tannie Hester onder die groot klip uit die veld wat die oom persoonlik laat aanry het, jare voordat hy oorlede is, omdat hy geglo het niemand anders sal dit kan doen nie. En die ander legendariese oom wat eendag in Kimberley voorgekeer is omdat sy hond bo-op sy skouers gelê het terwyl hy bestuur. Toe die verkeersbeampte hom aanspreek, sê die oom verontwaardig: “Maar hierdie is ‘n opregte jakkalsvangerhond!” Die beampte antwoord toe: “Maar oom, hier is nie jakkalse in Kimberley nie!”. Waarop die oom antwoord: “Dit wys jou watter goeie jakkalshond dit is.” Dit raak nou spitsverkeer hier. Daar is die afgelope uur twee donkiekarre en een bakkie in die stofpad verby. Die passasiers wat hulle hoedens lig en hartlik groet. Die plaaslike mense uit die ou jare wat een-een kom klop, en groet, en verneem na elkeen van jou kinders se welstand, en jou breedvoerig inlig oor die verloop van hulle lewens. Ek is van mening dat Dawid Psalm 8 hier, in die karoo, geskryf het.
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SPORT News
6 July 2018
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Up in flames Wolwespruit Street bustled with neighbours who had gathered outside a smoking house on the afternoon of Thursday 28 June. The street was streaked with fire hoses, the flashing lights of a Langamed ambulance and the bright red bodies of Secunda Fire Department’s fire trucks. As the hoses quelled the already receding flames that had engulfed the house, a young man could be seen in the ambulance, visibly shaken by what had just transpired. On the lawn of the yard, a large pet dog lapped eagerly drank some water in a bowl. A neighbour reported that the young man, aged 20, had been sleeping in the house when the fire took over. Over the rumbling noise of the fire trucks’ water pumps, a Langamed paramedic told the Bulletin that the young man was traumatised but thankfully, showed no physical injuries. The man’s family (his younger sister and father) were out of town when the incident occurred, leaving him alone in the house. “He said that he put oil
in a pot on the stove and fell asleep, forgetting that he had left the stove on,” another Langamed paramedic reported. The house was completely destroyed,
along with most of the family’s belongings. Community member who would be able to assist the family in any way are urged to contact Martie Smit at 071 251 8694.
TO ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCIES CALL 017 631 1903 • 017 631 1845
GMM fire department your friend in need Over the years the GMM Fire department (GMM Fire) received a lot of criticism in the way they handle and respond to fires. During the time that the Bulletin started to actively report on accidents and fires it became evident that GMM Fire is giving a great service to the community. GMM Fire is suffering from shortages in manpower and serviceable equipment but still manages to respond to nearly every emergency. The Life support given on accident scenes by freeing trapped occupants of vehicles is exceptional given the equipment that they have. There has been a spate of house fires recently and GMM fire responded very • From page 1
quickly to all these emergencies. The hoses might leak water but they still manage to put the fire out. The Bulletin recently met up with some of the fire fighters on the Secunda Dumpsite road. They were busy making a controlled fire break and the heat was intense. The sun was also beating down on them as they battled on in their heavy fire-resistant suits. The fire department should receive some special thanks from the residents of GMM. Without them there would definitely be more destruction and losses due to fires. Thank you Govan Mbeki Municipality Fire Department for all your effort in keeping GMM fire free.
Budget passed
“The DA has repeatedly engaged with Refliwe Mtsweni when she was CoGTA MEC and when she became Premier to ring-fence money due to Eskom and to consider increasing Eskom pay points to make it easier for residents to settle their debt, all of which Premier Mtsweni ignored until violent protests broke out,” said James, “It is the ANC’s own infighting that has brought Govan Mbeki municipality and many other municipalities to their knees.” Cllr Mofokeng of the EFF said that the budget is not from the people nor is it for the people. “It is there to enrich a certain group of people” said Mofokeng. “The budget will NOT address the concerns of the residents of Embalenhle and Kinross,” said Cllr Ciska Jordaan, “who have taken violently to the streets because they are not taken seriously by the ruling party otherwise.” “The DA is appalled by the deceit and the trickery of the ruling party and the lengths that it will go to, to continue deceiving the people of Govan Mbeki.” Ciska continued, “Let me rather say this time that the
VACANCIES VAKATURES
Govan Mbeki Municipality is a model city of oppression and a centre of humiliation under the leadership of the dishonourable ANC.” Ciska also stated that the following critical points remain true to the proposed budget: 1. Though the deficit has decreased, it remains at approximately R160m, while once again there is no realistic foreseeable solution towards compensating for it. 2. The DA maintains that the budget is still not based on the current trend of generating revenue and the expenditure of the municipality, but rather on the previous budget. 3. Electricity and water losses, which the council is painfully aware of, are not included in the budget, making expected income and expenditure also unrealistic and improbable. 4. Compiling and talking about turnaround strategies seem to be an immense waste of time when action is not taken. The municipality will have no resources to work with, turnaround strategies are never implemented, and MPAC items and resolutions relating to MPAC items are either not presented to the council, or implemented after
resolution. 5. Repairs and maintenance remains at an undesirable 7%. 6. The budget cannot be funded without revenue. 7. The opposition and, in essence, the council has been misled by party politics and the wretched power struggles of the ANC. After being deceived into thinking that our concerns and that of the community are of value to the structure of the budget, the ANC has made promises on behalf of the council to the community that will inevitably have an impact on the budget. Cllr Aranda Nel-Buitendag of the FF+ said that the budget is a really poor budget. “How are they going to pay the debts owing to Eskom and Rand water?” She asked. The ANC has then, by approving the budget, approved the following tariff increases, Water increase by 12,2%. Electricity increase by 6,84%. Rates increase by 5,2%. Refuse removal increase by 5.2% and Sewer by 12,2%. The increases comes despite the poor service delivery levels in all of the aspects that will now face increases.
News
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6 July 2018
Drumming away with Red Sgubhu Drum circles are almost unheard of in the tranquil towns of Govan Mbeki, but on the afternoon of Saturday 30 June, the rhythmic sounds of Djembe drums echoed through Evander. Red Sgubhu, a new and invigorating open drum circle, hosted its first event, which flowed into the evening. Siyabonga Buthelezi, the founder of Red Sgubhu, describes the event as “an alternative form of entertainment and a stress-reliever that leaves you feeling energised”. Having played drums for 11 years himself, Siyabonga hopes to keep Red Sgubhu going “forever”. “I’ve attended drum circles in Joburg, Pretoria and a few in KZN,” he said. Red Sgubhu is an interactive activity that sees participants led by three experienced drummers. Guests sit on tree stumps, each with a djembe drum of their own, and follow the lead of a dumdum drum. Red Sgubhu will continue to take place on a fortnightly basis, and its first occurrence enjoyed a wholesome attendance. “As something that is interactive, drumming has the power to bring all sorts of people together,” Siyabonga explained. One would expect a few complaints from neighbours after hours of banging, but to Siyabonga’s surprise and delight, the only neighbours who approached the circle did so with the intention of joining in. Red Sgubhu also holds sentimental value for Siyabonga, who has dedicated the craft to his late younger
brother. As such, Siyabonga seeks to fuse the initiative with social responsibility. “We’re looking to get into helping other people,” he
said. “It’s all fun and fair that people are enjoying it,” but Siyabonga sees the opportunity to create a nondestructive escape for people.
Having gotten off to a cheerful start, Red Sgubhu is set to be a recurring beat for the neighborhoods of Evander.
Truck overturns
An Albany delivery truck overturned near Unicor dam on Monday morning 2 July. The driver alleged that he tried to avoid hitting a small antelope and lost control of the truck. The Bulletin received a phone call from an eyewitness that stated that the truck drove within the speed limit but veered onto the left shoulder of the road, pulled the truck back onto the tar before losing control and overturning the vehicle No one was injured.
6 July 2018
SPORT NEWS
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Little Paws Big Hearts Little Paws Big Hearts (LPBH) grew from small beginnings to a major player in the animal care sector. LPBH is a prolife organisation that would go to great lengths to rescue, treat and place an animal. The SPCA ceased a Greyhound named Moya from his foster owners and amputated its leg. Little Paws Big Hearts issued a statement that reads as follows: It has come to Little Paws Big Hearts’ attention that incorrect information is being disseminated and published regarding a Greyhound (named Moya) who was entrusted to the organisation by his owner for medical care. We hereby would like to set the record straight by providing a chronological record of events pertaining to Moya’s treatment and rescue. These records are available from Dr. M. Hansen from the Evander Veterinary Clinic and can be corroborated by her. 13 June 2017: Moya was handed over to Little Paws Big Hearts (LPBH) for treatment of a swollen right front leg. Moya was taken to the Evander Veterinary Clinic and seen by a veterinarian. Due to the fact that LPBH did not have funds for x-rays, none were taken. Moya’s leg was clinically diagnosed with a fracture of the radius and ulna and the leg was put in a splint and Rimadyl tablets were administered for the swelling and pain. Bandage changes occurred on the following dates: 17 June, 22 June, 29 June, 5 July and 11 July. 5 July 2017: Pressure sores developed on the elbow and medial side of the leg. The sores were treated accordingly at the Evander Veterinary Clinic. The veterinarian reported that the fracture felt
more stable. 31 July 2017: Moya was treated for lethargy with Baytril and Rimadyl (antibiotics and pain killers). 11 September 2017: LPBH took Moya to Evander Veterinary Clinic as Moya had difficulty walking with the right front leg. A clinical examination showed that Moya suffered pain in his right front leg and that the leg was rotating outwards when walking. X-rays which showed a healed fracture were sent for a second opinion to the faculty of Veterinary Science at Onderstepoort. Dr. Kitshoff (of the faculty) advised that Moya be brought to Onderstepoort for further examination as the pain might be emanating from Moya’s elbow. 12 September 2017: Evander Veterinary Clinic informed LPBH of these findings and LPBHs informed the veterinarian that funds need to be raised for the second opinion (LPBH being a non-for profit organisation). 9-14 October 2017: Moya was admitted to the veterinary clinic and treated for gastritis. 12 April 2018: Moya’s foster parent took him to Evander Veterinary Clinic on behalf of LPBH for a check-up. According to the foster parent, Moya was in a lot of pain. The veterinarian discussed the following three options with the foster parent and LPBH: - Referral to Onderstepoort for specialist treatment - Amputation of the right front leg - Euthanasia LPBH requested a quotation for the amputation. The quotation and a report of Moya’s condition was emailed to LPBH by Evander Veterinary Clinic. Pain medication was given to Moya’s foster parent to administer over a period
of ten consecutive days. The SPCA also enquired after treatment options for Moya and they were informed accordingly. 17 April 2018: A transfer of R3000 was transferred to Evander Veterinary Clinic which was earmarked for Moya’s treatment plan. 4 May 2018: Moya was taken to the SPCA for right front leg amputation. The amputation as well as sterilization was done the same day. Moya was hospitalized until 7 May 2018. He was discharged with antiobiotics and pain medication to Mrs. Geel of Highveld Ridge SPCA. The procedures were done on the SPCA’s account (this despite funds being deposited in to Evander Veterinary Clinic’s account for the amputation). 12 May 2018: Moya’s foster parent took him to Evander Veterinary Clinic for a check-up and requested more antiinflammatories for him. Claims that Moya has not received treatment for his leg are incorrect. Claims that LPBHs did nothing to assist Moya are also factually incorrect. The organisation acted upon instruction of the veterinarian and it was the foster parent who received
Nissan Micra arrives in Secunda
a written warning from the SPCA for failing to give Moya adequate veterinary care. A magistrate issued a seizure order in the foster parent’s name. After Moya’s discharge, the SPCA allowed for the foster parent to adopt the dog despite the written warning and seizure order. Any claims contradicting these facts are inflammatory and leaves LPBH no other option than to seek legal counsel. LPBH trust that the above dispels any doubt that the organisation did not act accordingly.
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The arrival of the new Nissan Micra in Secunda was welcomed with an open day on Saturday 30 June. Far from its comparatively lackluster older model, the car is noticeably more attractive in design. At the forefront of ‘the Micra revolution’, it is a tempting marriage of design, comfort and performance. The open day gave potential buyers the opportunity to test drive the modern
car, which boasts contemporary interior features, including display audio with Apple CarPlay or infotainment with NissanConnect, a 7” touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities. Mobile integration also allows users to open their phones on the display screen to find all their contacts and calls. Appearing deceptively small, the new Micra is actually quite spacious.
Rear seats can be pushed down for maximum cargo space, while the boot still has a 300L capacity with the seats up. We could try to describe all of the Micra’s features to you, but it is probably best to head on over to Nissan Secunda and take it for a spin after the friendly staff has talked you through it. We promise you, it is well worth the hype.
NEWS
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SERVICES
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6 July 2018
Davieshof Flea Market Davieshof held a flea market on Saturday 30 June. The program included a performance by the Davies Court choir, a modeling show by Gibbor Model School and JeneSaisQuoi Modeling Academy, and miss Wieleskou was also available to take photos with the children. A photobooth also gave attendees
the chance to have photographs taken. Food was available in abundance, and the delicious offerings included biltong, sausage rolls, curry and rice, Breakfast Javels, Chicken Mayo Javel and minced Javelin, pancakes and an assortment of warm beverages to combat the cold winter air.
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6 July 2018
SPORT School
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Life coach visits Mshiniwami
The students of Mshiniwami Artisan Academy were visited by life coach and motivational speaker Wayne Stuart, on Thursday 28 June. During his talk, Stuart used his journey of frustration in his career to illustrate that initial unhappiness can serve as a stepping stone to one’s purpose. Before walking down the path of life coaching, Wayne hopped between numerous industrial jobs, finding himself deeply unhappy and unsatisfied for years. Having found his passion, Stuart is presently a life coach, motivational speaker, mentor and standup comedian. He describes himself as having a passion for people, and seeks to combine his four passions to “create a life that reaches out to others.” Stuart Coaching, a company by Wayne, carries the mission of working with individuals and organisations to bring out the best in people. Having gotten as far as he has, Stuart shared his story to offer hope to the young students of Mshiniwami Artisan Academy, a place very similar to where he started. Although brief, the session seemed to jolt a few faces awake in the hollow workshop. When Stuart left the podium, he was as energetic as when he first approached it, leaving the crowd buzzing with applause.
Wayne Stuart addressing the students at Mshiniwami
Umdzabu wins at Khula
Umdzabu Cultural Group took part in the Khula Music and Dance Competition in Balfour on Saturday 23 June. The group, which is based in Lebohang, came first place out of 23 groups in the competition after wowing the judges with their performance of a traditional Swati dance. The event was an initiative by i-Afrika Theatre Education in partnership with Dipaleseng Municipality and featured
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performances in gumboot dancing, traditional music and dancing, as well as Pantsula and modern dance. Umdzabu Cultural Group’s performance has qualified them to perform at the Ingoma Music and Dance Competition which is set to take place on 14 July in Tsakane, Gauteng. The group director, Mr Dumisani Nkambula, thanked the group for their determination, team spirit and respect for one another.
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SCHOOL/SPORT
6 July 2018
Laerskool Marietjie van Niekerk spog
Die volgende seuns is almal vir die Mpumalanga Bokkie Rugbyspan gekies Voor:Schalk Kruger,Zian Kotze, J.G. Pieterse, AdriĂŤn Sturgiss Agter: Marco de Kock, Zandru Hind, Connor Purcocks
Laerskool Marietjie van Niekerk se 0 /12 span is Mpumalanga naaswenners. Chrizanne Joubert, Madelein Erasmus, Wilanie van Staden, lzel Janse van Rensburg, Imke Venter, Anjike van Tonder en voor Anje van der Merwe en Sonia Kotze. Die afrigters is me Martie Coetzee en Me. Sumari Enslin
0/13 netbalspan is Mpumalanga wenners Van links: Me A Herselman, me M Jansen van Rensburg, Mariska van Biljon Corlia van der Merwe, Suane Enslin, Juanita de Alcantara, Diane van Zyl, Nicole Meyer, Marlize van Rooyen en Chane Otto.
Die O/9 rugbyspan is vir die derde agtereenvolgende jaar Mpumalanga wenners. Hulle afrigters is mnr L. Booyens en mnr J. Vos.
Sport
6 July 2018
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Stoeiers presteer Secunda Stoeiklub het twee Stoeiers gehad wat aan die SA Junior en Senior Stoei Kampioenskappe deelneem het in Newcastle KZNatal en het baie goed gepresteer. Hulle was deel van Mpumalanga Stoeispan. Nico van den Berg het die Goue Medalje gewen in Junior Vrystyl 57kg afdeling en is die SA Kampioen in die afdeling. Zara D’Abbadie het Goue Medalje gewen in die Vroue Senior -50kg – afdeling en is SA Kampioen in die afdeling. “Ons is baie trots op die twee stoeiers se prestasie,” het Johan van den Berg, die President van Secunda Stoeiklub gesê.
Zara het het die huidige SA Vroue Stoei Kampioen in die 50kg afdeling – Patricia Theledi van Sentraal Gauteng geklop in die finaal met ‘n val in 32 sekondes. Nico het in sy tweede wedstryd sy teenstander Gerald Marais van die Boland gewen om hom te oorskadu met ‘n verskil van meer as tien punte in 19 sekondes. Die volgende Groot SA Stoei Kampioenskappe is 5 & 6 Oktober 2018 in Kaapstad waar die SA Jeug Stoei Kampioenskappe gaan plaasvind. Dit is stoeiers vanaf 9 jaar tot 15 jaar. Harde werk wag die stoeiers om reg te wees in Oktober 2018
Summer bodies are made in winter FitCity’s Extreme Makeover Challenge is well under way as the winter grows colder. The challenge, which started on 1 June and runs through to 24 August, aims to make the quest for the ever-elusive ‘summer body’ a fun experience for its participants. FitCity Secunda was established in September 2017 and as described by its co-owner, Kim Smit, was “a dream for a few years”. Enjoying regular registrations through its modern online system, the gym is a growing success and the pride of its owners. “We run four classes during the day. We are a HIIT Studio, based on group fitness with instructors,” Kim explained. This is the first makeover challenge as big as it is, which offers the services of a qualified biokineticist, Ancois van Zyl. The expert takes measurements such as fat percentage and body circumference. Although the challenge cannot help but sound competitive, being an official winner is not its main focus, Rather, participants are encouraged to take their health and fitness into their own hands and compete with themselves as individuals. “It’s a fun thing for us, it is more of a motivational tool for individual goals,” Kim said. This attitude of fun in relation to fitness is undeniable, as FitCity often hosts themed workout parties, where members dress up and do dance fitness in line with the theme. The themes range from the 80s to pajama parties. We’ve offered an extreme makeover at a beauty boutique. The runner up
wins a mini makeover, and the third place winner receives a hamper of beauty products. Evidently, the challenge is geared towards female participants, but FitCity as a whole is open to the general public. “FitCity is about being happy, healthy, fit and strong, so the winner could never be picked solely on how much weight they lost,” Kim said. The winner is determined based on three main considerations: the difference in her fat percentage, the centimeters she has lost and the number of classes she has attended. At present, FitCity also stocks FitChef meals, which allow members to supplement their fitness routine with the appropriate nutrition. “Our philosophy is that if you eat 80% healthy 80% of the time, you get a thumbs-up from us,” Kim explained. Juanita Vermeulen, Kim’s partner, said that the passion began with a need for a healthy restaurant. “In the meantime, we started FitCity,” she said. “I love the fact that we offer something different to our clients”, Juanita said. “We make so many friends here.” “Seeing people feel good during and after the workout really shows what a difference we make, not just physically,” Kim said of her love for FitCity. Both owners are elated with the growth of the studio, and are wellaware that the power of word-ofmouth has been a huge driving force in FitCity’s success. We can’t wait to see the results at the end of the makeover challenge. Good luck to all the ladies participating!
Agter: Manie van den Berg – SA Stoei se Sekretaris Generaal – Beskermheer Secunda Stoeiklub, Johan van den Berg – Afrigter en President van Secunda Stoeiklub, Lollie van den Berg SA Stoei Admin Beampte en Sekretaris van Secunda Stoeiklub. Voor: Stoeiers - Nico van den Berg met Goue medalje, Zara D’Abbadie met Goue Medalje.
Van die Stoeiers van Secunda Stoeiklub wat Medlajes gewen het tydens die Mpumalanga Klub Kampioenskappe en Mpumalanga Pumatjie Toernooi. Agter: Anrich Venter, Tiaan Carelse, Nico van den Berg, Pieter Bezuidenhout. Voor: Du-Handre Putter, Janlu Lourens, Reagen Meyer, Brussow Francke.
6 JULY
2018
Bulletin
Domination at Fightstar It’s a knock out!
The commentators called the two fighters for the fight on Saturday night “two of the finest fighters out there.” In the first of the semi-finals in the “Searching for a Scrap” competitions, they called it a “war that is about to happen”. The commentators said that the fight should go two ways. Either over in a blink or three action packed rounds. In a fight that was televised to 53 countries and a reach of 50 million people, Smit “Malboer” Steyn from Dominators Den fought against Chukhuma Okoli from Fight Evolution, with Referee Nick presiding over the fight. The fight started with the customary touch of the gloves. Malboer threw the first two punches followed by a low kick. Okoli answered with a quick jab to Malboer’s face. Okoli followed that with two more, well placed jabs and a
straight punch into Malboer’s face. Malboer landed a right hook onto Okoli’s jaw that ended the fight with a knockout, sixteen seconds into the fight! In his post-fight interview in the cage Smit said that he thought Okoli will come out swinging but realized that he was not that aggressive and he thought he should swing it and see what happens. And it did happen! A knock out within sixteen seconds of the fight! It was an absolute pleasure to watch. Clean and quick. In an earlier fight Vice Nkosi faught against James Mynhardt. Vice took James to the ground and used his wrestling abilities to subdue James. Good tactical groundwork from Nkosi secured a win against James via a TKO in the first round.
Okoli strangling his opponent