FEBRUARY 2019 ISSUE 86
SETTING GOALS Unearthing your personal best
Distributed to the communities of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier & Winston Park
Yu’reInie
to ex�erience a spectacular lifest�le.. ROB ROY - the choice for your retirement living!
ROB ROY LUXURY RETIREMENT BOTHA’S HILL
Resale prices range from R750 000 to R1 850 000 for apartments and from R2 000 000 for a free standing cottage. New Inverness apartments start from R1 775 000 and are 70% sold. For peace of mind and glorious views there is no better than the Rob Roy Retirement Lifestyle Village. ROB ROY CONSISTS OF:
• • • •
Apartments Freestanding houses 24 hour established Care Centre Assisted living
These are situated in magnificently landscaped gardens within a highly secure estate. Additional units are currently being built in the new Inverness Wing to meet the increasing demand for luxury, yet affordable, retirement. All apartments are finished to the highest standards, fitting for the finest lifestyle village in KZN. With a choice of a wide range of facilities, security, medical care and various services, you and your family will have peace of mind. Enjoy a sundowner in the MacGregor Bar or take a casual stroll to the spectacular Community Centre for a glass of wine on the deck whilst taking in the beauty of glorious sunsets over the Valley of a Thousand Hills.
Retirement at the ROB ROY is the time to and enjoy ever� moment!
lie lie he ull
www.robroylifestylevillages.co.za 4292 Rob Roy_Crest Magazine.indd 1
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CONTACT: Anne Peddle 082 568 6331 OR Lynne Hannah 073 210 0577 | EMAIL: robroy@robroylife.co.za VIEW: Monday to Friday and Sundays 10am to 3.00pm | Saturday by appointment
2019/01/24 9:29 AM
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of self-discipline required for activities like learning a musical instrument, are very similar to the approach needed for effective learning. The role of sport is less about making students better academically, and more about giving them the right habits for life.” “The idea of ‘balance’ is misleading,” says Jonathan Manley, Executive Principal at St Mary’s. “It is not doing everything equally, but having meaningful exposure to a range of experiences and activities to stimulate curiosity and develop a degree of mastery.” Education aside, I am excited to share the Lahee Park feature with you on page 28. This much-needed facelift is long overdue, and I’m certain a facility of this calibre will uplift
FINDING BALANCE
O
ur annual education issue creates a wonderful awareness around hot topics highly relevant to parents, teachers and learners. Working so closely with schools in Upper Highway and surrounds has made me realise how many amazing options and opportunities we have available for our children – right here on our doorstep. And they all have the same goal in mind: to help each individual find that all-important balance through learning, growing and reaching full potential. We take a closer look at the perils of screen addiction, explore the benefits of both co-ed and single sex schools, and learn more about balancing academics, culture and sports. As David Burns, Head of Senior Primary at Highbury, puts it: “We see the highest correlation not between sport and academics, but between cultural involvement and academic achievement. The high levels
TALK TO US
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our community in many ways – creating jobs, encouraging team spirit and promoting an active lifestyle in a safe environment. We’ll be following the development to share news with you along the way. I’m loving the coral trend for 2019, and the benefits of pink Himalayan salt in all shapes and forms are endless (page 34). On the subject of wellness, getting healthier is on everyone’s list at the beginning of a new year. Let Debbie Reynolds guide you through some fab tips on page 32, tips that also focus on finding that all-important balance. To keep you in the loop, I am constantly searching for interesting little snippets and news for our Take Note section. If you know someone or something that deserves a mention, please drop me a line. I also love getting social pics from hip and happening events in our ’hood, so keep them coming!
RECEIVE YOUR FREE DIGITAL COPY OF THE CREST MAGAZINE www.mysubs.co.za/magazine/the-crest Simply log on and register to receive your complimentary digital copy or view past issues. ItÕs a great way to share your favourite community magazine with family and friends who don't live or work here. And it's free! F E B R U A R Y
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in this issue*
GROUP EDITOR Doody Adams EDITOR Katrine Anker-Nilssen PRODUCTION EDITOR Lorna King GRAPHIC DESIGN Kyle Griffin SALES MANAGER Tracy Linden 083 236 3202 tracy.linden@media24.com DISTRIBUTION Mphumzeni Thusi Enquiries: sumayia.khan@media24.com ACCOUNTS Sumayia Khan CONTRIBUTORS Cathy Clark, Gavin Foster, Lorna King, David Knowles, Robin Lamplough, Jeremy Nell, Debbie Reynolds HEAD OFFICE GM: MEDIA24 PRINT MEDIA Raj Lalbahadur DIVISIONAL OFFICE GENERAL MANAGER Doody Adams
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Copyright: All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Media24 unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced or stored by an electronic system without prior written permission from Media24. Disclaimer: While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. Neither do they endorse any products/services advertised herein. Material which appears under ‘Advertorial’ is paid for. *To the people of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier and Winston Park, the office parks, the residential estates and, of course, all our advertisers, thank you for your continued support.
38 EDUCATION GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT
LIFESTYLE 10
For a healthy lifestyle, the right balance starts at school
DIGITAL DETOX THE CHOICE IS YOURS
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The story behind an infamous old oak tree
LAHEE PARK FACELIFT
WE ALSO PUBLISH ...
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Performance park set for bright future
WORKING YOUR WAY TO WELLNESS Achieving peak wellness in 2019
ON THE COVER:
St Mary’s 1st Team Netball 2018, photographed by Craig Scott.
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Stylish and comfortable kid’s clothing
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Affordable accommodation up the North Coast
Image Insured’s clothing range Seasons
The ABC logo is a valued seal of trust, providing measurement, compliance and auditing services which protects the way advertising is traded. The Crest is ABC audited and certified.
LOCAL, UNIQUE & TIMELESS TIME TO GET AWAY
COMMUNITY
A RELIC FROM THE PAST
AS GOOD AS IT GETS The VW Touareg
Co-ed or same sex schools: the debate continues
LOCAL IS LEKKER
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Fresh and innovative office decor
A closer look at screen addiction Published by Media24 Suite 1, 94 Armstrong Avenue, La Lucia. Box 20162, Durban North, 4016. 031 584 7008 | www.famouspublishing.co.za Printed by CTP Printers, Cape Town Managed distribution by Vibrant Direct
INSPIRED TO WORK
REGULARS ED’S LETTER 1 TAKE NOTE 4 HOT HAPPENINGS 6 SOCIALS 7 TRENDING 34 GO GREEN 47 LAST WORD 48
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ADVERTORIALS IMAGE INSURED WATERFALL SCHOOLS HILLCREST HIGH SCHOOL NEXIA LEVITT KIRSON ACTION COACH ONE TOUCH INVESTMENT
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take note*
ou Keeping yp in the loo
ARE THERE OTHERS IN OUR COMMUNITY OFFERING A SIMILAR SERVICE? PLEASE GET IN TOUCH SO WE CAN HELP SPREAD THE WORD
cardboard and glass. Then there are the wonderful individuals within our community who have taken the matter into their own hands, such as Yvonne and Brad Speirs. Inspired by their children’s eco-schools, Kloof Junior and Senior Primary, they became obsessive recyclers. “We believe strongly in the ripple effect, that each small action can spread out and change the world,” says Yvonne. Creating The Upcyclers, the Speirs put themselves out there and have received incredible response. “Through immense support from family, friends and members of our programme, we
Recycling Solutions Since eThekwini Municipality stopped collecting orange bags, our community has been at a loss. What do we do with our recyclable waste? The recycling site in Delamore Road is an initiative of the Keep Hillcrest Beautiful Association (KHBA). “We can’t accept orange bags, and we don’t take plastic,” says chairman Marge Mitchell. However paper, cardboard, cans, glass bottles and large appliance polystyrene – all washed and in separate bags – are welcome. The Pavilion’s recycling centre accepts plastic, and also takes
GET INVOLVED!
have purchased our own bakkie and have had to get casual labour in to help us with sorting.” For R100 a month The Upcyclers collect and supply two reusable bags a week – one bag for plastic and the other for paper,
Local Food Business Turns 20 Winston Park’s Joanne Jennings – a marketing student with a passion for cooking – and her mom Maureen recognised potential when the opportunity to purchase a small home-based business arose. The business plan involved a small loan from a loving father, a few microwaves, a fridge, two pots and some chocolate moulds. With Albertina and Queeneth, Joanne and Maureen set about converting a double garage into a small factory. The goal was simple: to create good, old-
FRIENDLY, AFFORDABLE, GENTLE CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
DENTIST
BChD (UWC) PDD Int Ortho (UWC) Practice no 0599395
Dr Sonam Balwanth
MEDICAL AID RATES Check ups & cleanings / Fillings / Root Canal Treatment / Extractions / Dentures (False Teeth) Veneers / Crown&Bridge work / Teeth Whitening Removable Orthodontic Plates
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NEW PREMISES
031 764 0114 | drsonambalwanth@gmail.com Shop 7 Natalia Terrace | Commercial Centre 15 Charles Way Kloof
cardboard, glass and tin – and donate waste to community projects such as Singakwenza, who use the items to make toys as teaching aids in the rural communities, and Wildlands. E KHBA: mmitchell@tiscali.co.za E The Upcyclers: info@theupcyclers.co.za
fashioned home-made fudge. Those humble beginnings fostered a business culture built on relationships, both within the business itself and in the market place, and that culture still prevails two decades later. Jennings Fine Foods has grown into a popular, proudly South African brand, boasting a wide range of confectionery products – but still maintaining that old-fashioned homemade quality. With proposed expansions to both the factory and the product range, and some new and exciting recipes, the future looks exciting for this local food business. www.jenningsfinefood.co.za n 082 704 5804
AUDIOLOGIST CLAIRE FOUCHÉ
B. Comm. Path Audiology (UKZN), M. Comm. Path Audiology (UKZN)
THE PREVENTION, IDENTIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT OF HEARING DISORDERS RANGING FROM BABIES TO ADULTS SPECIAL INTEREST IN AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDERS IN CHILDREN • Hearing Assessments for children & adults • Hearing Aids • School hearing screenings • Neonatal/Newborn Hearing Screening THE KLOOF FAMILY HEALTH CENTRE / 8 VILLAGE ROAD KLOOF 031 764 4277 / 031 764 0259 / MEDICAL@AFRIHOST.CO.ZA
it. It was hard work and I had lots to learn, but fortunately I had guidance from my good friend Faansie Peacock, a serial bird book author, and my kind mother, a teacher, proofread it for me.” The book is about Nick’s most thrilling, dangerous and hilarious moments as a snake rescuer. “It includes coming face to face with black mambas in all kinds of situations, wrestling pythons, getting spat at, getting bitten and even jumping on crocodiles. I have tried to make it as exciting, interesting, funny
Our Very Own Snake Rescuer Brings Out A Book “When I set up my organisation in 2015 I created a Facebook page. There I would write about each and every exciting snake rescue. I got lots of positive feedback, and as time went on followers of the page encouraged me to write a book,” says Nick Evans
and educational as possible.” “Anyone with an interest in wildlife, snakes in particular, will enjoy this book,” says Nick, who has always loved animals. “At a very young age I started watching Steve Irwin, the late crocodile hunter. His passion and enthusiasm for snakes sparked an interest in me, and my love for snakes grew from there. I find them incredibly fascinating and yes, the black mamba is definitely my favourite,” says Nick. n 072 809 5806 W @KZNHerpConservation
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– who has helped community members relocate many a snake over the last few years. “I’ve been working on the copy for three years, writing about my adventures as they came along. It took me seven months to put it all together, I designed it and self-published
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s g n i n e p p a Hot H TO SEND YOUR EVENTS
LORNA.KING@MED
Common & Class FEBRUARY 6-17, ELIZABETH SNEDDON THEATRE: The uncommon combustible clash of breeding and culture pits drummer-comedian Gino Fabbri’s dynamic drumming and guitar-playing against Ian von Memerty’s pyrotechnic piano-ism, resulting in a roller coaster of musical contradictions which will have you rolling on the floor and rocking in the aisles. Their mismatched machinations sees the “battle of the twits” moving effortlessly from Rock to Rocky Horror, Boeremusiek to Broadway and Country to Classical. Computicket.
SA Tour Of Russian Ballet MARCH 9, 2PM AND 6PM, PLAYHOUSE OPERA: The Royal Moscow Ballet tour to SA will present three pieces: Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture; the third movement of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No 6; and excerpts from Carl Orff’s scenic cantanta, Carmina Burana. Computicket.
NWJ Bridal & Beauty Experience MARCH 1-3, THE GLOBE, SUNCOAST CASINO: With over 120 top local suppliers, this year’s exhibition will showcase the latest bridal and beauty trends and introduce innovative and creative themes, products and techniques – everything you need to organise the wedding of your dreams. Tickets available at the door.
Decorex MARCH 21-24, DURBAN EXHIBITION CENTRE: Come and check out the finest concepts and products from a collection of expertly curated designers and manufacturers. This year’s theme, “Designing for Africa – feels like home” encapsulates the re-birth of the African style powerhouse. Pop-up market on Friday. Tickets: R95 for adults; R85 for students/ pensioners; R20 for children under 12.
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IA24.COM
Aquelle Midmar Mile FEBRUARY 9-10, MIDMAR DAM: The world’s largest open water swimming event, the Midmar Mile draws thousands of competitors each year, both serious international athletes and olympic medallists to recreational swimmers. Great fun for the whole family. E info@midmarmile.co.za
Dusi Canoe Marathon FEBRUARY 14-16: This canoe race between Durban and Pietermaritzburg features top canoeists and teams ready to tackle the 120km marathon on the Msunduzi River. E info@dusi.co.za
Giba Gorge Horse Riding Trails Giba Gorge Horse Trails cater for all levels of experience, the young and old, as well as the handicapped. Daily rides explore the valley and its wonderful flora and fauna. Trail rides: R300 an hour per person; Pony walks: R180 per half hour per person, R80 per 15 minutes per person; Rides: Tues to Sun: 9am and 10.30am; 1.30pm and 3pm. Tues and Thursday night rides from 5.30pm. n 082 623 3783
If Plants Pay Will They Stay? FEBRUARY 7, 7PM, KRANTZKLOOF CONFERENCE CENTRE: Listen to Professor Neil Crouch talking about commercialising our indigenous flora. Kloof conservancy members: R40; non-members R60; students and children under 12 are free. All funds raised will be used in local environmental projects.
Splashy Fen APRIL 18-22, UNDERBERG: The four-day festival boasts a live selection of local and international music, family-fun activities and craft and food stalls. A chance to camp and unwind. www.splashyfen.co.za
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*take note
Seen around! SE ND YO UR PIC S TO KATR
Matric Celebrations HILLCREST HIGH SCHOOL With an outstanding 99,49% matric pass rate, HHS is extremely proud of top student Laurie Aucamp – who achieved no less than nine distinctions and was placed in the top 10 in KwaZulu-Natal.
“I would not have achieved this without my teachers supporting and pushing me. I will look back at my high school years with great fondness.” THOMAS MORE Thomas More’s 94% Bachelor Degree pass rate with an average of over two distinctions per candidate speaks to the school’s fundamental belief in – and
commitment to celebrating – every child’s unique giftedness with passion and purpose. ST JOHN’S DSG The 2018 matric group produced the school’s best results in its 121 year history, with all 62 girls achieving Bachelor Degree passes. A record number of 20 girls achieved five or more
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distinctions, with 13 matrics achieving either seven or eight distinctions. KLOOF HIGH SCHOOL Kloof High School’s class of 2018 achieved excellent results with a 95% pass rate, and are particularly pleased to see a 7% improvement in learners attaining Bachelor Degree passes and therefore access to tertiary institutions.
Gin Infusion Evening Riley Physiotherapists recently hosted a festive gin infusion evening at Meyrickton Park.
Juli-Ann Riley, Kim Riley and Warren Swales. Candice Rommers and Juli-Ann Riley.
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profile* Fay and Megan Coleman tell Katrine Anker-Nilssen the story behind their success
F
ay’s dream of starting an image consulting business became a reality after she was inspired by a friend who suddenly looked completely transformed after a colour analysis. Thirty-two years ago Fay went on to train with an international Canadian company and has run a successful business ever since. Former Miss South Africa, Megan, had a similar vision. Eleven years ago mom and daughter joined forces and with their combined experience and knowledge, created Image Insured. Starting out in a studio at home, the business grew at an amazing rate and is now located in the popular Delcairn Lifestyle Centre in Kloof – educating clients about the right colours and styles to wear in order to tap into their full potential. Their own clothing range Seasons is proudly South African, all locally produced and sourced. It’s the first of its kind in South Africa, offering colour co-ordinated clothing that has a variety of styles to suit all four seasons. However the shop is open to the public and not only clients.
LOCAL IS LEKKER “It is a timeless and classic range that suits all ages, shapes and sizes,” says Megan. Image Insured is all about professionalism, and it’s not hard to see that both Fay and Megan are extremely passionate about what they do. “Our model is unique, mixing the consulting and retail into one,” explains Megan. “We teach clients how to develop their own personal style best suited to their skin tone and body shape.” “We want this to be a safe haven for women,” says Fay. “We love encouraging and inspiring clients who seek our help. Image Insured is somewhere you can walk in, show your true colours and receive honest advice without judgement.” “It’s not all about changing people on the outside, but encouraging our clients to see value in themselves. There is a big difference between looking beautiful and truly believing you are beautiful,” says Megan. “So many of our clients battle with the latter, and that’s where the heart of our business lies.” “Image Insured is dedicated to God who has made all this possible,” say Fay and Megan.
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*makeover
Jo’s outfit is from Fay and Megan’s own Seasons clothing range, obtainable at their Kloof shop Image Insured. MAKE-UP BY MEGAN COLEMAN. STOCKISTS OF KRYOLAN MAKE-UP
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Meet Jo Weakley – the winner of our 2018 Teacher’s Makeover Competition
J
o is a teacher at Forest View Primary and won a life-changing makeover with Image Insured. At 1,83m tall, Jo has always battled to find clothes that look good on her. But after her Colour and Figure Assessment with Fay and Megan Coleman, she learnt which styles and colours worked
best for her height and colouring and looked absolutely stunning in her locally produced Seasons outfit from Image Insured. “Everyone will fit into one of the four seasons,” says Fay. “Jo is an Autumn, which means she needs to wear warm undertone colours to neutralise the pink tones that her skin throws out.”
Her make-up, clothing and hair colour transformation are all based on her season, which makes shopping and looking good easy. The talented Grant Harper transformed Jo’s long locks into a masterpiece as he worked with her natural curl and added a warm auburn brown and golden low lights to add depth to
her natural colour. “Looking your best is about following a simple formula. It does require a little bit of effort, but once you know how, it is easy!” says Megan.
SPECIAL OFFER: Colour Analysis booked for the month of February will receive a free garment valued at R399. Ts & Cs apply
FAY COLEMAN MEGAN COLEMAN
GRANT HARPER
JUSTIN DALLAS
Delcairn Centre, 12 Village Road, Kloof 031 764 1039, www. imageinsured.co.za
Grant Harper Salon, 6 Lagoon Drive, uMhlanga Rocks, 031 940 6817
031 764 3824 082 590 5491 studio@impakt. co.za
IMAGE INSURED -SINCE 1985-
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education*
GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT The experts agree that the secret to living a healthy, fulfilled and productive life is getting the balance right and the best place to start is at school, writes Debbie Reynolds
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ith so much pressure on children to achieve both in the classroom and on the sports field, it’s easy to lose sight of the other important “stuff” like healthy coping skills. La Lucia counselling psychologist Simon Brittz says more children than ever are anxious and overwhelmed, especially if they are also dealing with peer and parent pressure. “We can’t expect children to be adults, so parents have to take a leading role, but without living vicariously through their children,” says Simon. “The best way to deal with anxiety is to begin with the end in mind.” His suggestion is writing out goals at the beginning of each term: • Two academic goals. • Two sporting goals. • Two social goals. • Two emotional/spiritual goals. “Then prioritise by putting first things first. Write out what is most important and learn to manage your time. It’s the ageold goal-setting technique – the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. “So, if you’re facing matric and just seeing a mountain you don’t think you can climb, break it down into bite-size chunks and take the first step and the
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next will follow.” Reaching your goals requires more than just determination and dogged hard work. To be at your most effective also means looking after yourself. “Write out three ways you plan to achieve this,” says Simon. “Look at your emotional, social and physical well-being and address each one so that you are not just focusing on getting the best marks or making the first sports team.” Getting the balance right might differ according to each child’s goals, but whatever these are, parents need to make sure their children don’t burn out by neglecting those things that help them cope. These are the ways parents can help maintain balance: • Don’t overschedule or allow children to overschedule. • Make sleep a priority. • Ensure children are eating properly. • Set electronic curfews. • Manage your own stress. • Make mornings calm. • Check your own attitude to mistakes and failures. “If parents are anxious and frenetic and in conflict then children will pick up on that negative energy,” says Simon. “You can’t expect your child to be calm and organised if you are all over the place. “As a parent you must set
Picture: Getty Images limits and boundaries, but as your children grow up and you observe they are doing it themselves, you can step back. If you then see they are out of kilter you step back in and reestablish the rules.” Children might not always ask
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for help so parents need to know what to look out for, including: • Somatic symptoms – headaches and stomach aches. • Sleep issues. • Academic changes – especially poor concentration. •Mood changes – depression,
LEFT: Mishe Chitarai, Northlands’ Girls High Dux 2018. BELOW: Andrew Sutton, Northwood Boys’ High matriculant and recording artist. to a range of things,” she says. “We can’t exist in isolation. Playing soccer helped me relax, meet people and increased my academic productivity.” Her best advice to learners is to “avoid trying to be perfect”. “It’s good to have goals, but you don’t have to have everything figured out. Use the support around you and, most of all, reward yourself when you’ve completed a task or reached a milestone.”
sadness, irritability, flatness and demotivation. • Pervasive sense or feeling of worry. “The best way to deal with children who are having problems is to notice out loud and ask are you OK?” says Simon. “Break the problem down into isolated parts, discuss each part, devise a strategy to deal with each part and help where necessary. “It might mean the parent phoning the coach to discuss better training options or setting up extra lessons for a problem subject.” He says by finding solutions to immediate issues, the perceived crisis is often averted. We asked some overachievers how they get the balance right: MISHE CHITARAI, Northlands' Girls High Dux 2018: This Phoenix teenager puts her success down to hard work and sacrifice, but also strongly advocates doing the
things you love and not taking yourself too seriously. “While I wait for my matric results and decide where I’ll study actuarial science, I am relaxing, spending time with family and friends and taking advantage of the holiday,” she says. “I realised from Grade 1 that you have to set goals and work hard to achieve them. Reaping the rewards at the end of the term motivated me.” Doing well in matric has always been her dream, but she made sure she was mentally and physically prepared. “I played soccer for the school team until my matric year, then decided to give it up so that I could concentrate on my studies. “I also went out and had fun, but I didn’t go mad and I didn’t give up my cellphone,” she laughs. “Yes, to achieve any goal some things may have to take a back seat, but that doesn’t mean you have to give them up forever. “It’s important to be exposed
ANDREW SUTTON, Northwood Boys' High matriculant and recording artist: The 18-year-old has been singing since he stole the show aged six as one of the three kings in his school nativity play. Three years later he entered the Gateway to Fame talent competition and blew the judges away. “That opened a lot of doors for me and I’ve been performing ever since,” says Andrew. “Music is my absolute passion and I can’t imagine doing anything else.” But he first had to get through matric, which meant his singing career had to take a back seat. “Thanks to my mentor and manager, Gangs of Ballet front man Brad Kleynsmith, I released my first single One More Chance in 2017. If I had my way, I would have concentrated on releasing more songs last year, but my priority had to be finishing matric. “I am super conscious of how fickle the music industry is, so having a good education was my goal for 2018.” He did,
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however, still find time to write and record his own song, which he hopes will be on the airwaves by the time you’re reading this. “While I am following my music passion, I will also look at doing tertiary studies, because I know it is important to not be one dimensional.” He also advises keeping fit and healthy by finding something you love to do. “I played soccer, cricket and hockey at school and I love surfing. You must make sure you look after every part of yourself – and my life lesson is also to stay humble. The opportunity to make someone else happy through my music is what motivates me.” BONGI MSOMI, Protea netball captain and coach: Growing up in Hammarsdale in a very traditional Zulu
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family, Bongi wasn’t encouraged to play sport and when it came to academics she was largely left to her own devices. “My parents were very strict and worked hard, but I had to discipline myself when it came to study and homework. Back then, if you were a township kid it wasn’t unusual to fail a class and young girls often got pregnant. “I wanted to make sure I got a good education and was lucky to find netball even though I was already in Grade 11.” Bongi had tagged along to netball practice with some of her neighourhood friends and because they were a player short the coach asked her to step in. “Straight away he spotted something in me and encouraged
me to join the training sessions, helping me with the drills so that I could catch up to the team,” says Bongi (right). She is now the national team captain, runs coaching programmes and is an ambassador for the Girls Only Project, which aims to create a more equal sporting landscape for African women. Because of her experience she advises that children try different sports in primary school, so they get an all-round feel for what they like. “It’s easier to teach a youngster than it is to teach teenagers who often are embarrassed to try something new,” she says. “Giving time to academics and sport teaches you time management and responsibility.
Give your little one a flying start Your little one will be inspired with a love of learning in Weavers’ Nest, Highbury’s co-educational pre-primary school for Grades 0000 to 00 (from age two onwards). Our dedicated and experienced teachers are passionate about the development of your child, and encourage learning through play in a nurturing environment. We will ensure that your son or daughter enjoys the benefits of a solid foundation for their many years ahead.
A big heart for little people.
www.hps.co.za
WEAVERS’ NEST OPEN DAY Grades 0000 - 00 Thursday March 7th 2019 at 08h30 RSVP marketing@hps.co.za
It’s good to be busy and focused rather than wandering around streets or malls. Being exposed to lots of things early on helps you understand what you want later in life. “Children do need time out, but if they have goals then they will use their time wisely to realise their dreams.”
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THE WYKEHAM COLLEGIATE “Our core value is balance and our girls are required to play a sport or take part in a physical activity every term. A wide variety of clubs and societies – such as choir, wind ensemble, debating, enviro and outreach – are timetabled into the school day so that they do not clash with sporting or after-school commitments. This encourages the girls to take part in at least one club or society each term. Music is also widely acknowledged as a positive influence on academic achievement and discipline. Girls learn to manage their time well, and often our top academic achievers are also our busiest girls.” – Sue Tasker, Lady Principal
WATERFALL PREPARATORY “Our daily challenge is to reinforce each child’s intrinsic value. We strive to create a healthy environment, where children can be children and the focus is on age-appropriate learning and development, both in the classroom and on the sports field. Our desire is to create a lifelong love of physical activity during these formative years, focusing on the opportunity to experience, not necessarily excel. When you remove the fear of unfair judgement and pressure, you see children grow in their love of school and learning.” – Brad Cooper, Headmaster
MARIS STELLA “As the world changes with the influence of artificial intelligence and technology, there is a definite focus to change from purely academic pursuits to include the development of one’s entrepreneurial skills and to maximise the skills that are beyond the reach of artificial intelligence. Creative skills, human skills such as empathy and the spirit of perseverance are hallmarks of entrepreneurship, and this is where our new generation of students need to be headed. Team work is another facet gained from sport, and the enjoyment and physical and mental health benefits from spending time with peers doesn’t hurt either. Art, music and dance are equally important in developing the mind to see problems and situations from a different perspective. If modern academics requires ingenuity, creativity, discipline and perseverance, then sports and cultural pursuits should be emphasised with greater positivity and embraced by all those who want to meet with success.” – Bridget Aaron, Head of Grade 8 and 9
DURBAN GIRLS’ COLLEGE “One of the greatest advantages of playing sport and being fit is a more positive body image and an increase in confidence. Skills practiced in sport like leadership, organisation, problem solving and strategy are of great value in the classroom. Being fit has major health benefits like being more energetic and alert, which helps concentration enormously. However, children should not be overextended in their sporting commitments as this is counterproductive – they tire easily and are not able to concentrate as well.” – Wendy Laatz, Head of Senior Primary
advertorial*
Families across the Upper Highway have seen positive changes in their children during their time at Waterfall Schools. From the Pre-Primary through to Matric, children and young adults are embracing a love of learning, and parents are seeing the benefits at home
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aterfall Schools is the product of rich heritage and a fresh approach to teaching, built on a strong foundation of Christian values. Incorporating Waterfall Pre-Primary, Waterfall Preparatory and Waterfall College, this educational hub provides an affordable, independent education with a philosophy that resonates with many families. The trio of schools share a culture that seeks to reinforce every child’s intrinsic value and develop young adults who are assured of their self-worth and ready to contribute to the world around them.
HONOURING THE INDIVIDUAL Age-appropriate systems and structures ensure an environment suited to each developmental stage. There is a natural progression from the Pre-Primary to the Prep and on to the College. Located on the iThemba Campus in Hillcrest, the schools enjoy a range of facilities thanks to their NPO partner, Focus on iThemba. These include spacious classrooms, two sports fields, a basketball/netball court and a 4km cross-country trail, not to mention the wetland and beautiful indigenous landscaping – which provides the setting for daily adventure and creative discovery. Established in 2003, Focus on iThemba has committed to investing in education through its extensive Early Childhood Development initiatives, the iThemba Scholars programme (through which two children per year are given donor-sponsored scholarships to Waterfall Schools) and by creating the space for Waterfall Schools to flourish. 2018 was a milestone year for Waterfall Schools, beginning with the opening of Grades 4 to 7 at Waterfall Prep, completing the education pathway from 12 months to Grade 12.
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ABOVE: The iThemba Campus provides a range of sporting and educational facilities in a beautiful African setting.
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WATERFALL SCHOOLS OPEN DAY
FEBRUARY 26, 2019 We have openings in selected grades for 2019 and 2020. Please visit our website for more details.
of Waterfall Prep. “We are committed to being a school that focuses first on progress and development, ahead of achievement and performance, where we allow children to discover their inner treasures without fear of being measured against each other.” Teachers have been chosen for their ability to create an environment where children are excited to learn and develop the necessary skills to launch into the College experience. The promotion of an outdoor and active lifestyle encourages children to explore a wide range of pursuits, giving them the opportunity to discover that which ignites their imaginations. 2018 ended with a construction crew hard at work and eight new classrooms rising out of the earth. This marks an exciting new chapter for the College, which is known for its experienced specialist teachers and their commitment to helping their students realise their potential. Established in 2004, Waterfall College provides a holistic education, founded on the pillars of academics, culture, sport, technology, leadership, service and social intelligence. As an established IEB Centre for Matric examinations, the College prepares its students for life after school, with skills beyond subject-specific knowledge. “With 48 students per grade, each child benefits from individual attention, allowing potential to flourish,” says Jeanette van der Merwe, Principal of Waterfall College. 2018 was an extraordinary year for the College and 2019 looks set to continue the trend, with growing interest from
Since moving to the campus in 2016, Waterfall Pre-Primary has established itself as one of the most sought after pre-primary schools in the area. “We are passionate about children learning to make sense of the world around them and believe that children should be children for as long as possible,” says Paula Mason, Waterfall Pre-Primary Principal. “Our teachers and staff are equipped to develop each little person’s confidence, concentration and age-appropriate life skills within a contemporary ‘home from home’ environment.” Waterfall Prep has experienced incredible growth – from 90 pupils at the end of 2017 to more than 320 children in 2019. “We have been humbled by the community’s response to what we are doing and are grateful to the parents who have chosen to walk this journey with us,” says Brad Cooper, Headmaster F E B R U A R Y
Waterfall Pre-Primary will host an event for new moms in May 2019.
the local community and expanding facilities. Fundraising is under way for the new classrooms, which are scheduled to be open by the start of 2020. Waterfall Schools is more than the sum of its parts. It is a place where children are empowered to realise their potential, writing their own destinies and spreading positivity. Join us as we continue the journey to creating a world-class education hub, with an impact far beyond our schools.
Waterfall Pre-Primary: 12 months to Grade 00 031 710 1813 E info@waterfallpreprimary.co.za Waterfall Preparatory: Gr R-7 031 710 1814 E hello@waterfallprep.co.za Waterfall College: Gr 8-12 031 710 1830 E info@waterfallcollege.co.za www.waterfallschools.co.za 2 0 1 9
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education*
DIGITAL DETOX
Screen addiction is a real thing with real consequences, and with awareness comes responsibility. Katrine Anker-Nilssen takes a closer look at its problems, effects and possible solutions
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’ll put it out there right from the start that I’m not ‘antitechnology’. It’s too late for that. Technology is here to stay, and we might as well enjoy all the ways it has made the world a better place,” says Paul Bushell, psychologist and author of the book #raisingkids To Thrive In A Constantly Changing World. However technology and screens have reached “basic needs”
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status in many of our lives. “We sit in front of television screens, with tablets on our laps and phones in our hands. We don’t dare leave the house without a screen for ourselves and our children.” Diane Pickford, Chaplain of St John’s DSG, held a powerful talk on being screen smart at Durban Girls’ College recently. “Screen dependency leads to addiction, which in turn can lead to unhappy,
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WHICH STEPS DO YOU TAKE TO AVOID TOO MUCH SCREEN TIME FOR YOUR LEARNERS? WATERFALL COLLEGE: “Schools around the world are seeing the results of increased screen time, with young adults experiencing higher levels of anxiety and social isolation than any generation before them. We work to develop our students in all spheres, creating well-rounded individuals who know their own value and are able to contribute positively to our world. Our HOPE outreach programme has a strong following, providing our students with a way to connect with their peers while making a positive difference in the lives of those around them.” – Jeanette van der Merwe, Principal REDDAM HOUSE UMHLANGA: “When our students move to university, no one will be there to monitor their usage or behaviour online. So the goal is to get them to a point of being a responsible, confident manager of their own technology usage before they head out into the big world. We encourage our students’ parents to set up rules for responsible use of technology in their homes. A better question about screen time is not “how much is OK” but rather “what else is important”. A more helpful framework is to consider screen time in terms of contributing to a balanced life.” – Adam Rogers, College Headmaster
DURBAN GIRLS’ COLLEGE: “Screen addiction is a challenge, and I suspect that
unfulfilled lives. We are constantly distracted from the present moment, and we lose depth of thought and feeling,” says Diane. “The best solution is to seek a replacement – getting lost in projects and activities like gardening, pets, arts and volunteering,” says Diane. “And it’s necessary to set boundaries – such as no phones in bedrooms at night or at mealtimes – as well as strategic stoppages.” It is also crucial to set a good example, as digital addictions and habits project on to others. Children learn from what they see, so when they see us on our devices, or when we give them a
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it is even more of an issue at home than it is at school. The reality is that this has a bearing on performance at school. Teenagers binge watch series and this impacts negatively on their sleep patterns and of course, time management. Homework tasks get pushed aside and done at the last minute. I worry about reading. Essentially, time which was spent reading has now been replaced by screen time and this is highly stimulating, but less cognitive. Teens’ ability to read with ease is under threat and even bright pupils sometimes struggle with reading passages because the process is not something they’re practising anymore.” – Heather Goedeke, Head of High School
HILTON COLLEGE: “A strong emphasis of our approach to learning is getting boys to work in group environments, creatively solving problems while consulting their teachers for expertise and inspiration. This requires them to integrate different streams of learning and develop relationships with their peers and subject matter experts. If the use of technology facilitates such learning, we encourage it. In many cases, however, technology creates a distraction. Boys are coached about how to use technology appropriately – and encouraged to take ownership over how they spend their time.” – Peter Storrar, Director of Marketing
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education*
device so we can have our own time, they start to copy. “We can’t make this a children-problem,” says Paul. “We need to start acting like the kinds of people we hope our children will be one day.” This means putting down our device more often, taking away the amount of time we let our children be on their device, and filling that time with meaningful conversation and activities. “It is also good to teach children to limit themselves when it comes to screen time and develop self-control,” says Diane, who
believes that although it’s primarily parents who model screen use and norms, schools can help in teaching about the effects of too much screen time. “There is an increase in the number of schools requiring learners to do a significant amount of school work on screens. Even though there are benefits to learning about technology and being able to utilise technology, a balance is important. Screens should be avoided during break times and adequate filters should be in place to prevent access to inappropriate content,” says educational psychologist Nicola Buhr. “Schools do need to take on responsibility for teaching responsible technology use. With the increase in cyber bullying, pornography and sharing of explicit content, it is vital that schools engage with learners about the dangers of technology and social media and what the consequences are.” Screen addiction is concerning. The lack of physical activity together with diminished physical social interaction can lead to further problems. There may also be underlying problems such as depression that are being covered up with excessive screen time. “Either way, it is important to further investigate why excessive screen time is occurring,” says Nicola. “Too much screen time affects the development, psychosocial and physical health of a child,” says Nicola. Then there is also the expectation for immediate results and effects. “This constant influx of dopamine, from our pleasure centre in the brain, can lead to a disconnection with the real world and its less immediate rewards.” So how can we set limits that achieve a healthy, manageable balance? How much screen time is too much? “The current recommended screen time per day is one hour for children before high school. Children under the age of two should not be exposed to screens at all,” advises Nicola. Paul Bushell n 073 200 7219 E bushellpaul@live.co.za Nicola Buhr n 082 854 6902 E info@nicolabuhr.co.za
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Durban Girls’ College
141 Years of Academic Excellence Durban Girls’ College applauds the Class of 2018 on their outstanding IEB results. We recognise the hard work and dedication of our teachers, without whom these results would not have been possible. The Class of 2018 has truly demonstrated their academic excellence. Now it is time for these remarkable young women to go out and enrich our society. Durban Girls’ College wishes them well as they embark on their onward journey. 100% Pass Rate, 100% Bachelor Pass, 226 Distinctions 3 in IEB List of Outstanding Achievers nationally 77% of all symbols attained are A’s and B’s 25 placements in the top 1% nationally for individual subjects
Cenelle Gounden 7 Distinctions IEB Outstanding Achiever
Antonia Andrea Grindrod Plumbley 8 Distinctions 8 Distinctions IEB Outstanding Achiever IEB Outstanding Achiever
Tayla Daykin 7 Distinctions
Humairaa Khalid 8 Distinctions
Isabella Laura Hitchings Jackson 7 Distinctions 7 Distinctions
Caitlyn Kiara Rhea Le Grange Padayachee Valjee 7 Distinctions 7 Distinctions 7 Distinctions
Over the past 141 years, Durban Girls’ College has produced independent and confident young women who have gone on to excel in many different fields. Contact our Marketing Department to discover how your daughter can become the next College Girl.
Inspiring Independence. Establishing Significance
+27 (31) 268 7200 www.dgc.co.za
February Open Days
Please book online www.dgc.co.za
nostalgia*
A RELIC FROM THE PAST Robin Lamplough goes back in time to discover the story behind an infamous old oak tree
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t the entrance to the Hillcrest library stands a curious relic. It is a section of weathered log. Council employee Bongiwe Biyela says she has often wondered why it is there. The lettering on a neglected plaque reveals a little. It reads: Part of the historic oak which stood at Padley’s Crossing. But most are none the wiser. In fact, the log was once part of a massive tree which stood at the foot of Botha’s Hill. When it fell in 1983, the victim of termites and high wind, it may have been 100 years old. For generations it had been a local landmark. The tree stood on the edge of present West Riding, not far from the railway line which today takes
RIGHT: The weathered log outside Hillcrest library. INSET: The old chair and table made from the oak tree. holiday excursions from Kloof to Inchanga. From 1845, before the railway was built, there had been a roadside inn near the tree. The inn was known as the Halfway House, and later as Padley’s Yorkshire Arms. Padley advertised it as “The ORIGINAL Halfway House”, because there was a competitor at Alverstone. Perhaps one of the inn-keepers planted the tree. It became an outspan site on the road to the interior. The road led to the Natal capital, the Transkei, the Free State and the Transvaal. After the discovery of minerals inland it became one of the country’s key routes. Local transport riders made good money hauling freight and supplies to the highveld. All this
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Huge Old Oak Falls WESTERN MERCURY/12 OCT/1983
OPEN DAY 9 February 2019
Parents & Students (08h30 - 14h30)
After the French Prince Imperial was killed in Zululand, his mother made a pilgrimage to the place where he had died. Local lore insists that she camped beside the oak tree on her way inland was before Hillcrest existed. When Britain made war on the Zulu kingdom, troops and supply wagons had to negotiate Botha’s Hill. After the French Prince Imperial was killed in Zululand, his mother made a pilgrimage to the place where he had died. Local lore insists that she camped beside the oak tree on her way inland. It is also believed that the party bringing the prince’s body back for burial made an overnight stop there on its way to the coast. Whether or not these Hillcrest legends are true, at least one nameless wagoner threw a trek chain over a fork in the tree and left it there. Gradually, as the tree grew, the chain became embedded in its branches. I well remember my first visit there over 50 years ago. From the ground below, it was possible to see links on either side of the trunk. And in 1983 the tree fell. Former town clerk, Barry Stops, recalls that a team led by Brij Duca cut the trunk into sections and cleared the site. A town board employee named Kjel Christiensen cut a number of planks from the pieces of oak. With these
Christiensen fashioned a high-backed chair, a table and a gavel, all to be used at town board meetings. An attempt by local Rotarians to nurture a replacement oak sapling came to nothing. And even the town board’s days were numbered. After 1994, the eThekwini metropole engulfed it. The oak furniture was shunted to the library, taking up space. Eventually (according to the present accounts office manager, Vinisha Pooran) one of the last employees of the old board, Lynn Wells, had the table and chair moved to the accounts department. Lynn also pinned a newspaper page reporting the fall of the oak tree. It is still there today, yellowed but legible. Ann Maud, who kept the board’s minutes for 27 years, tells me the gavel was presented to her in farewell. The table has become a repository for pot plants. The high-backed chair stands forlornly in a corner. Few visitors, however, intent on paying their Metro bills as quickly as possible, have much time to look around. It’s sad we forget so easily.
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F E B R U A R Y
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(Presentations & Tours at 09h00 & 12h00)
education*
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THE CHOICE IS YOURS Single sex or co-ed? This is a question all parents have to ask themselves at some stage, and although it’s not an easy decision to make – your choice should ultimately be based on your child’s individual needs, writes Katrine Anker-Nilssen
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avoid the competitive and confused dynamic which can arise between girls and boys struggling with different things in the same space,” says Paul. However, it is very important that we understand and take the specific needs of individual children and the characteristics of individual schools into account when choosing where to send our children. “Some children thrive in mixed environments, where they can have social and emotional opportunities with both boys and girls. Some children make better friends with the opposite sex, and experiences in single sex schools can be lonely and damaging to their self-esteem and socio-emotional development,” explains Paul. This kind of diversity can also promote ideas of gender equality and result in better communication skills with the opposite sex. “This is often seen as better preparation of the ‘real world’, where children will have to have
ingle sex schools are still very relevant in South Africa. For many boys and girls, these environments provide advantageous academic, social and emotional conditions. “Educational and neurological research shows us that boys and girls often learn differently. This allows single sex schools to cater to these specific styles of learning,” says psychologist Paul Bushell. “Single sex schools can also eliminate some of the social pressures that boys and girls often place on each other during the various stages of learning – this can have a positive impact on self-esteem and selfconfidence development.” There are clear differences in the emotional maturation and development of most boys and girls. “Single sex schools can capitalise on a specific knowledge of one sex, and
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SINGLE SEX AND CO-ED SCHOOLS? HIGHBURY PREPARATORY SCHOOL: “It is our core business and intentional choice to focus on the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional lives of boys. Because we don’t have to plan curriculum, lessons and events to include both boys and girls, we can focus 100% on boys’ needs and activities
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exclusively – which results in the boys being fully engaged in their learning every minute of the day. Without the influence of girls at school, our boys are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, without stereotypes, to explore their full potential. Our boys participate whole-heartedly in reading poetry, singing in the choir and learning musical instruments.” – Belinda Willows, Head of Foundation Phase
ST MARY’S DSG: “The biggest advantage of a girls only school is the productivity and high level of engagement that exists in the classroom. A single sex classroom and playground is a simpler system in terms of discipline and relationship management. The girls are more aware of who they are as individuals and, as a result, they are more focused and make healthier choices. Monastic schools usually partner with schools of the opposite gender in
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order to provide a platform for discussion, debate and collaboration. There are no magic formulas and each child needs to be considered for what will suit him or her best. The environment in which they learn needs to be free from prejudice and allow for the individual to feel safe, supported and stimulated to pursue what matters most to them. In my opinion it is easier to achieve this in a single sex environment. – Jonathan Manley, Executive Principal 23
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personal and professional interactions with the opposite sex.” “Going to a single sex or a co-ed school is a personal choice and various factors should be considered when making this choice,” says educational psychologist Nicola Buhr. Questions you should be asking are: Does the school’s ethos align with yours? What opportunities does the school offer your child? What about cost and distance from home? Does the school offer remediation? “Every child is unique and deserves an education that is suitable to their individual needs,” says Nicola. “When it comes to educational attainment, it is not necessarily dependent on the school’s model. Children who are intellectually inclined will perform better regardless of school model, and vice versa for children who struggle. Children also benefit from being taught different learning styles and the view that children should be taught differently does not necessarily apply,” says Nicola. There is little scientific evidence to suggest that the school model
REDDAM HOUSE UMHLANGA: “We believe that co-education best reflects society and contemporary trends, and that co-ed schools are best equipped to produce confident, socially well-adjusted young adults. As a result we aim to encourage an atmosphere of mutual respect for the opposite gender. Boys and girls learn to work together and accept each other as equal partners in school 24
and in life. However, in teaching both genders we have to be mindful that girls and boys are not the same. Our teachers’ task is to understand these differences and design our learning programmes to be mindful of these differences, but not limit boys or girls to what they generally speaking can or can’t achieve.” – Adam Rogers, College Headmaster
will change academic outcome, so placing a child for this reason is not going to benefit your child. This also extends to social benefits. “Some children flourish is single sex schools and others flourish in coed schools. Having a choice is a good thing, and no one school suits all children. Make the decision based on your child’s individual needs and talents or weaknesses. In our current modern society, we benefit from choice and diversity,” says Nicola. Research and visit the schools you have shortlisted before you make an informed decision to best suit you and your child. At the end of the day, perhaps the most important thing is not whether you enrol your child in a co-ed or a single sex school, but rather to make sure the school you choose is a good one with dedicated and experienced teachers – as well as great management. Paul Bushell n 073 200 7219 E bushellpaul@live.co.za Nicola Buhr n 082 854 6902 E info@nicolabuhr.co.za
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DURBAN GIRLS’ COLLEGE: “Extensive research suggests that academic performance is better in single sex schools, especially at high school level where girls and boys can engage in curriculum delivered and designed for specific purpose. Levels of engagement are not threatened within the whole social and self-consciousness psyche of teens. Activities, speakers, enrichment
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and excursions are customised to meet the needs of girls or boys, and so there is often a sharper focus. The advantage of co-ed is the ‘real-worldness’ of it. Work environments are co-ed, and post-school university experience may be easier to adapt to.” – Heather Goedeke, Head of High School
Boy-centric teaching and learning across the academic spectrum Boys learn differently and our Academic Support enables boys to overcome barriers to learning on both ends of the academic spectrum. While our extension programmes challenge and inspire, our Learner Support Classes remediate and ensure firm foundations for future successful learning. A boys-only education grants opportunities for our boys to step out of their comfort zone, without stereotypes, to explore their full potential and thrive. Highbury offers your son all the advantages of a dynamic education, through academics, culture and sport – while equipping him with Christian values and the skills to succeed in the 21st century. Knowing Boys. Since 1903.
www.hps.co.za
HIGHBURY OPEN DAY Grades R - 7 Friday March 8th 2019 at 08h30 RSVP marketing@hps.co.za
advertorial*
MAKE YOUR MARK Hillcrest High School has achieved over 40 years of excellence, providing exceptional physical and social environments in which all learners have the opportunity to become the best they can be
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OPEN DAY: Wednesday, 13 February, 2019. Hope to see you there!
he only school in KZN to be nominated as a Microsoft Showcase School, HHS invests in Honour – developing character and leadership – and Hard work academically, culturally and in sport, in order to Serve and influence our community positively. With an outstanding 99,49% matric pass rate in 2018, including 80,41% Bachelor passes and 211 distinctions – two students achieved nine distinctions, no less than five students achieved seven distinctions, and six students achieved six distinctions each – HHS’s Dux for 2018, Laurie Aucamp, achieved nine distinctions and was placed in the top 10 in the province. “Our 2018 matrics have done themselves, their teachers and their families proud. Particular thanks go to the staff and their parents for nurturing and guiding these students to do their best and to embrace our motto ‘If it is to be, it is WHY HHS? up to me’. We hope they will continue to adopt this •Co-educational philosophy as they pursue their future goals, and •Caring and experienced educators we extend to them very best wishes as they do •Top quality education at an affordable cost so,” says Headmaster Mr Craig Girvin. beyond their job descriptions, this is a •Safe and holistic environment Past students are a testament to HHS setting school I would recommend to all.” •Encourages self-reliant, balanced and a good foundation, preparing students for life Along with their achievements in their collaborative critical thinkers beyond school. Amy Booth has just completed her high performance sports (rugby, swimming, •Helps diverse students find medical studies at UCT and emerged as 2018’s top netball, cricket and girls and boys hockey), their niche student, achieving no less than nine awards – including HHS is also extremely proud of their students’ the Gold Medal Award. achievements in the school’s many other extraElma Akob – elected President of Golden Key University of mural offerings – such as chess, softball and debating. Pretoria for the 2018/2019 term – says HHS has high academic With this year’s school theme, Make YOUR Mark, tying in standards, sporting excellence and cultural opportunities at a with the country’s election year, HHS wishes all members of the national and global scale. “With the most passionate and devoted school community a happy and successful start to the year. principal I have ever encountered and teachers who go above and 031 765 1215 www.hhs.co.za E admin@hhs.co.za W HillcrestHighKZN
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a place of hope
community*
LAHEE PARK FACELIFT Since 2001 Seagulls Swimming Club with their head swimming coach Graham Hill has had a dream of developing Lahee Park into a state-of-the-art performance park, and it looks like it’s finally underway, writes David Knowles
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ore than 60 years ago Pinetown resident Henry Lahee entrusted the custodianship of land to the city of Pinetown to be used exclusively for sport related activities. In the mid-1970s the sporting precinct was opened by then Minister of Sport, Piet Koornhof, a one of a kind in the country boasting swimming, bowls, squash, cricket, athletics, rugby, squash and soccer among the many disciplines and facilities on offer. These days the area lacks shine, with
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most of the clubs having closed and buildings left derelict. Sceptics would feel strongly scoffing at Graham Hill’s vision, but it takes men of passion, far-reaching ideas and loyalty to ensure things happen in the world. Graham – who has produced swimmers the calibre of Olympians Terence Parkin, Charlene Wittstock (now Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco), Darien Townsend, Melissa Corfe and Chad Le Clos – has chosen to make Lahee Park swimming pool his headquarters. As he succinctly says, “I could be coaching
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More on the development: •Sporting codes offered are football (five fields), cricket, bowls, tennis, BMX, netball, swimming, athletics and sevens rugby •Security fencing and infrastructure •Floodlighting •Rehabilitation and research facilities •Endorsed by Princess Charlene •Go Durban (when running) has a stop at the facility
overseas, anywhere I choose, such is my record. But I remain loyal to Pinetown because I see potential.” Nearly 20 years ago Graham approached the then council with ideas, but with no funding nothing was forthcoming. However, in the past three years, behind the scenes work has seen the proposal taken to the correct authorities at eThekwini, who has approved what Graham has presented. “We are way past that stage and right now the whole matter lies in the hands of the municipality. We expect the wheels to
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TOP & MAIN: Artistic renders of the proposed park. ABOVE: Graham Hill (left) and Delayne Gray who share the dream and vision for Lahee Park. LEFT: Lahee Park today. literally start turning soon, in more ways than one,” says Graham. “The plan is to get things up and going from February/March, and a date toward the end of next year has been penned for completion of the facility.” And what is the dream? “First and foremost, people must remember the foundations, the fields and buildings
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community* LEFT: Another Seagulls coaching session gets underway at Lahee Park.
are already there for us to work with,” says Graham. “We want to create a sustainable high performance facility unique to Durban and its surrounds. It has provisionally been named the Lahee Performance Park, offering state-of-the-art sport and recreation facilities – a place for elite sports people and the community to enjoy.” Having relocated Swimming SA’s elite training programme to the High Performance MS Crest 1-2pg.pdf 1 2019/01/22 14:03 Centre (HPC) at Tuks in Pretoria, Graham
knows what he desires. “This will be better and I have secured financial support through partnership with the developer of the HPC, where knowledge and understanding of the complexities and facilities are unparalleled,” he says. “Remember, this is a training and recreational development, not the building of huge stadia and the like. We will have indoor facilities and a hotel for athletes to stay, but it remains a training venue.” Pinetown businessman Delayne Gray has
thrown his weight behind Graham’s dream and through sponsorship of Seagulls events and taking charge of the water reticulation, he wants to put Pinetown firmly on the map. “It will be a private public partnership in agreement with the municipality. There will be key elements to be properly managed, there is entry and exit control plus certain areas will need payment for use,” says Delayne. “This will assist in sustaining the development, with membership offered for specific training, while an all-weather tartan track of 2,6km will run around the perimeter – allowing people to run, walk, cycle and exercise.” These are big dreams, but they are possible and will be happening. It will be a locally driven project from top to bottom, and while it’s a development over time, it will still be in use while work is in progress. “We don’t want people to see work starting and then thinking it will be another two years before any benefit can be gained,” says Delayne.
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OPEN DAYS GRADES 000-R SATURDAY 2 MARCH 9H00
GRADES 1-7 TUESDAY 12 FEBRUARY 17H30
faith
family future
558 STEPHEN DLAMINI (ESSENWOOD) ROAD, DURBAN
GRADES 8-12 WEDNESDAY 13 FEBRUARY 17H30
AR 120 YE
S
031 209 9426
www.marisstella.co.za
*advertorial
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indy (left) lives in Gillitts with her husband and daughter and used to work for a medium-sized audit firm in the Upper Highway area. In July 2017 she moved on to Nexia Levitt Kirson (NLK) and has enjoyed seeing the firm grow in the last year and a half. With her recent promotion to Senior Audit Manager in the firm, Lindy is more focused on building client relationships and helping them grow their businesses. She helps supervise a team of 30, and is very involved in the SAICA training programme and ensuring trainees achieve their goal of qualifying as Chartered Accountants. “I endeavour to help Nexia Levitt Kirson move LOOK OUT FOR into the information age through implementation MORE ON NLK AND of technology and reaping these benefits for our ITS EXCITING FUTURE clients,” says Lindy. IN OUR NEXT ISSUE, So, what inspired Lindy to pursue a career in WHERE WE MEET NEW auditing? “I always wanted to be a professional PARTNER SAMANTHA and the CA (SA) designation is one of the most CHEESMAN recognised professions in the world,” she explains.
READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD Upper Highway’s Lindy Feingold-Bester has been promoted to Senior Audit Manager at Nexia Levitt Kirson, and her focus is helping entrepreneurs become sustainable businesses
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“There are few other jobs in the world where you are exposed to so many industries and so many knowledgeable business leaders. Every day you are faced with new challenges, and you don’t know what’s going to come across your desk when you arrive in the morning. Today the idea of auditors being old men in grey suits is a myth, and we are seeing a shift with many women coming into the profession.” More than just auditors, NLK is part of a network of leading independent accounting and finance services firms providing audit, tax and advisory services which clients can rely on. Nexia International is a worldwide network of independent accounting firms which ranks in the top 10 accounting networks in terms of size. The local offices are located in Westville. No matter what type of business you own, NLK can help. With a qualified and diverse team of Auditors, Management Specialists, Tax Advisors, Payroll Administrators, Estates Managers, Company Secretariats, Forensic Auditors and Bookkeepers, NLK is your one-stop financial service provider. E lindyf@nlk.co.za 031 266 2250 www.nlk.co.za
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wellness*
WORKING YOUR WAY TO WELLNESS We all know that good nutrition and regular exercise are vital for a healthy lifestyle, but there’s much more to it than that. Debbie Reynolds looks at how overall wellness is the way to go in 2019
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he World Health Organization defines wellness as an active process of becoming aware and making choices towards a healthy and fulfilling life. “Wellness is more than being free from illness, it is a dynamic process of change and growth ... a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” The experts agree that wellness consists of several parts, including physical, emotional, intellectual, social, financial and spiritual health. You may be able to tick a few of these components, but if you’re missing the rest, you’ll likely find yourself needing medical help somewhere down the line. Counselling psychologist Simon Brittz explains it like this: “If you’re a boat with four anchors – consisting of exercise, sleep, work and play – your boat will stay firm in a calm sea and you could probably manage with only two of your anchors. But when the sea gets rough you’ll need all four anchors to keep the boat on an even keel.” Influential businesswoman and motivational speaker Margaret Hirsch is a walking, talking example of how wellness can shape your life. She talks about eight facets – health, exercise, your partner, your family, your job, finances, material goods, spiritual life and charity. “There is truth in the fact that you are what you eat,” says the 68-year-old who has never been off sick a day in her life. “I am a vegetarian and I don’t drink alcohol or fizzy drinks, although I haven’t managed to give up icecream yet. Exercise is also vital as it increases mobility as you get older and helps to relieve stress.” Personal trainer and gym owner Selwyn Rautenbach says exercise is key to holistic wellness, empowerment and unlocking your full potential. “The trick to getting off the sedentary couch is to find exercise you enjoy
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LEFT: Influential businesswoman Margaret Hirsch “paying it forward” by teaching Anna Mhlanga how to make a living from baking.
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ABOVE: Exercise should be about fun and finding your own groove … whatever it may be. Here producer David Gouldie, aka Eugene, enjoys his 80s-style aerobics class. LEFT: Clinical psychologist Francois de Marigny.
Picture: Getty Images
and which fits into your lifestyle,” he says. “I advocate integrating strength and conditioning training in the gym with active outdoor exercise, be it swimming, cycling, running or playing a sport.” He says if you have children, it’s beneficial to the whole family to create a lifestyle that everyone can enjoy. “Take your kids fishing, surfing, hiking, climbing or skating. If you tend to be a loner, you can find a group or club where you’re enjoying exercise, but also being social. It could be anything from a running club or scuba diving to beach volleyball or touch rugby. “The better you feel and look, the more confident you will be. Small changes can achieve big results.” The biggest excuse he regularly hears is, ‘I don’t have time’. “You’re so right, we don’t have time and life is short, which is exactly why you should find the time to enhance your health and increase your longevity.” When it comes to happiness Margaret says your partner and family play a big role. “In the old days if you made your bed you had to lie in it, today it’s OK to change the duvet,” she says. “One of my biggest challenges is convincing women they are better off on their own than with an abusive husband/partner. You have to choose to be around people who build you up and applaud your success no matter what you try.” With regards to family, you should only work with those prepared to work with you. “My brother was an alcoholic and I tried everything. The day I let go of him, his life got better and so did mine,” she says. F E B R U A R Y
Having a job you love is very important, it’s such a big part of your life. “I sell irons, toasters and kettles for a living, but my passion is helping entrepreneurs make a success of their businesses,” says Margaret. Also crucial to a healthy lifestyle is financial wellness. “Clear financial goals are non-negotiable,” says financial planner Neil Evans. “There are only two things we can do with money – spend it or save it. Unfortunately, too many South Africans choose to spend it without thinking about their future. “Only 6% of people in the formal sector retire independently,” says Neil, so his top tip is this: the earlier you start saving the quicker the miracle of compound interest kicks in. Clinical psychologist Francois de Marigny says good mental health is essential to overall wellness, with research clearly showing that emotional and mental issues manifest in the body. “We now know that childhood emotional trauma affects our whole lives and how safe and meaningful attachments early in life set us up to have a meaningful and satisfying adulthood.” He says good mental health is not necessarily about being happy. “It is found in a sense of contentment with your life, in which you can have fun and laugh and where you can cope with stress and be resilient in adversity. It is important to cultivate a work/life balance in order to build and maintain a healthy relationship and have a sense of meaning and purpose.” He says mental health is an invisible and often unspoken about aspect of overall health. “Yet in every neighbourhood in every strata of society there is a story of the person who seemed fine and then suddenly commits suicide. “Poor mental health affects our ability to function socially, as partners in relationships and as parents; our performance at work and our physical health, and can range from severe mental illness to the all too common depression, anxiety and every day stress.” He says often in relationships and families, one person’s poor mental health can have a negative impact on the whole structure, especially children who can learn bad mental health patterns from their parents. Finally, on the question of spiritual wellness, the experts agree with Margaret that it doesn’t matter who you pray to or what you believe in as long as you follow the premise: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” And pay it forward. “There is always someone worse off than you no matter how little you have,” says Margaret. “By helping others, you ultimately help yourself.”
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on trend*
LIVING CORAL With wellness on everyone’s minds at the beginning of the year, pink Himalayan salt is a new trend worth considering
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antone announced their colour of 2019 as Living Coral – “An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energises and enlivens with a softer edge.” Taking this colour forecast and looking into some wellness trends for 2019, we find ourselves with the pefect “Living Coral” of health. Pink Himalayan salt is a type of rock salt that comes from salt mines in the Punjab region of Pakistan, near the foothills of the Himalayas. Dating back to earth’s creation, Himalayan
salt is believed to be composed of dried remnants of the original, primal sea. The salt from these mines has experienced tremendous pressure over millions of years and is said to be more than 99% pure. Pink Himalayan salt is chemically similar to table salt as it contains up to 98% sodium chloride, with the remainder of the salt being made up of 84 minerals and trace elements including potassium, magnesium and calcium, which give the salt its light pink colour. Pink Himalayan salt is used in various ways to provide you with amazing health benefits.
Wedding Trends 2019 It’s no surprise that Himalayan rock salt is trending in all facets, so why not incorporate it into your wedding design! This pastel-hued wellness phenomenon is perfect for any millennial bride, especially those having a tropical or summer wedding in 2019. From welcome drinks in Himalayan sea salt shot glasses to candle holders and table signage, there are a variety of ways to incorporate this trend into your wedding. Pair with copper elements and lots of florals and your guests will be head over heels.
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Himalayan Salt Lamps and Candle Holders These decorative lights or candle holders are carved out of pink Himalayan salt, providing a softly glowing, natural source of fresh, clean air. They have an incredible power to remove dust, pollen, cigarette smoke, pet dander, mould and mildew from the air. Purify the air through hygroscopy: water molecules are attracted from the surrounding environment, which are absorbed – with any foreign particles they may be carrying – into the salt crystal. As the lamp warms up from the heat produced by the lightbulb inside, that same water then evaporates back into the air and the trapped particles of dust, pollen, smoke, and so on remain locked in the salt. The result? Cleansed, deodorised air which reduces allergies and asthma. When the Himalayan salt lamp heats up and begins its hygroscopic cycling of airborne particles, it also changes the charge of the molecules which are released. Our homes are filled with positively charged ions which are not good for our health. As a Himalayan pink salt lamp absorbs water and particles from the air, it also absorbs positive ions. When the heated salt releases cleansed water vapour back into the air, it also expels negative ions, which results in increased energy levels, better breathing, enhanced sleep, neutralised electro-magnetic radiation, improved concentration, mood and immune system.
Available from Thrive, Maytime Centre, Kloof, from R350 to R500.
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The cure for anything is salt water – sweat, tears or the sea
Himalayan Pink Salt Block Heard of the wonders of the Himalayan Pink Salt Block? Not only do these colourful prehistoric crystals make healthier, tastier and more interesting meals, they are also totally intriguing and beautiful. Cooking on a pink salt block will add just a hint of its very interesting salt flavour to your food while naturally imparting the incredible health benefits of Himalayan pink salt.
Due to the low porosity and moisture retention of the salt, a naturally antimicrobial environment is created, thus making the blocks perfect to use as a preparation and cooking board. To prevent cracking of the surface, salt blocks must be heated slowly. However, as it has extreme temperature resistance, it is excellent for high-heat cooking. Heat spreads and holds evenly throughout the
Bath Salts
entire block instead of radiating out from the middle and cooling down towards the edges. This means that food prepared on the block will cook at the same pace regardless of where it is placed. The salt blocks can be used for both hot and cold dishes, and raw foods like sashimi will actually begin to cure the longer it rests on the salt block.
Available from Woolworths, R349,99
Face Masks
Dr Teal’s Pink Himalayan Mineral Soak combines pure Epsom salts with mineral rich pink Himalayan salt to revitalise tired, aching muscles and help replenish your body’s minerals. Uplifting bergamot and sweet orange essential oils soothe the senses and help provide relief from stress. Soak sore muscles away! Available from Dis-Chem, R120
Bring the spa home with the Freeman Rejuvenating Cucumber & Pink Salt Clay Mask – you can exfoliate, detox, and clear your skin. Available in tubes and sachets.
Available from Dis-Chem, R99,95 and R29,95
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decor*
Staff canteen with large outdoor area offers various seating options for groups or individuals. This space is utilised all day with a coffee and smoothie bar for staff, and is large enough for a company gathering. Reception waiting area and boardroom coffee station and bar.
INSPIRED TO WORK
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Out with stuffy, traditional, staid offices, and give us something fresh and innovative. That was the brief … and that’s exactly what FMI got
fter completing FMI’s original office in uMhlanga in 2014, this dynamic life insurance company approached Dwell Interior Architects to design their new 2 000m²
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Durban head office in Ocean Dunes, Sibaya to suit their growing needs. The brief was to create an open plan working environment in which their many staff could easily collaborate – be it in the open plan desking areas, smaller break-
away meeting areas, or to gather for larger company functions. A more formal boardroom and various video conference meeting rooms was also required. Aesthetically they wanted something fresh and innovative for their flagship space that
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The open plan desking is planned around a central, easily accessible core of informal meeting rooms and collaborative areas with various meeting rooms. The reception and front of house area is separate to the open plan area but is on the same floor plate. A mezzanine level was created to accommodate the large boardroom as well as additional meeting areas. Informal meeting lounge areas are visible throughout the open plan space. Collaboration booths create slightly more private meeting areas within the open plan space. Acoustics were considered and resulted in full upholstery application. Four custom oversized sliding doors run along the edge of the central meeting core to temporarily close off informal meeting spaces and hot desk areas as required, or can slide away to allow the spaces to totally open up. The doors have the added functionality of writable central panels to facilitate teamwork.
ABOUT THE DESIGNERS Dwell Interior Architects is a Durban-based design firm specialising in corporate, retail, and high-end residential interior architecture, design, and decor – with a focus on creating contemporary environments with an emphasis on bespoke detailing. With a trusted and talented core of interior designers, clients can expect a holistic design service where all projects receive dedicated attention from the principals, Kelly Andriés and Lauren Horsfall. www.dwellinteriors.co.za
reflects FMI’s people-centric culture and business philosophy, and were open to Dwell’s suggestions of a modern industrial feel. Dwell was responsible for the complete design – from ceilings, lighting, specialist finishes, bespoke cabinetry, workstations, furniture and decor – as well as the budgeting, preparation of detailed working drawings for tender purposes and site inspections to ensure the requisite quality was maintained throughout the construction period.
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motoring*
AS GOOD AS IT GETS If you’re serious about your car, and have the bucks for loads of sexy options, then the latest Touareg is worth taking home, says Gavin Foster
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s it a car? That it is. A proper SUV with four-wheel-drive? Yep. And fourwheel-steering … and a heads-up display … and a lane monitoring system that fiddles with the steering to help keep distracted drivers on track … and infrared sensors to detect and alert you to pedestrians and livestock ahead at night … and front and rear-mounted radar to warn you of fast-moving traffic coming up from behind and …. You get the idea. And apart from all the electronic and mechanical gimmickry, the Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI – whether in Luxury or Executive guise – is at heart a really classy car with a three-litre V6 diesel engine that makes it a pretty serious performance missile in its own right. The important
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numbers are 7,5 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint and 235km/h for top speed, but we’re not going to go into all of that now. We’re just touching on the other stuff that’s packed into the VW wagon. Both versions of the new third-generation Touareg launched late last year cost around R1-million, so the big wagon doesn’t really fit into the original Volkswagen pattern of being a car for the masses. Then again, it shares much of its platform with such automotive icons as the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7/Q8, and it incorporates many of the design features of the VW Group’s considerably more upmarket Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus SUVs. As is now usual for German manufacturers, the cars come pretty well equipped to start
with, but include lists of sexy options that can easily deplete your wallet by a further couple of hundred grand even when you’ve bought the flagship model. These include VW’s Suspension Package with air suspension, electronically reacting shock absorbers, and rear-wheel steering that comes standard in the Executive but costs R51 950 as an option in the Luxury version. Then there’s the Dynaudio Sound System (R16 650), Ambient Light Package for R-Line (R7 900), Cargo Package (R6 850) and Innovation Cockpit (R74 900). You need to keep your wits about you when buying because the price-list – and the demo fleet – is littered with options that are included in comprehensive packages that aren’t standard. The Executive version delivered to us for evaluation was loaded to the gunwales with extras, including the Advanced Safety Package that adds the aforementioned infrared night-vision feature that detects warm-blooded animals and people in your path then lights up on a monitor and triggers an audible alarm when you’re 100m or so away from them. The advanced headsup-display included in the R59 150 (for both models) safety package is also useful, projecting as it does current speed, speed limits and other info on to the windscreen. Most of this technology has been available for years in premium brand cars, but things like the four-wheel steering and infrared detection are relatively uncommon, and the VW, when enough money is thrown at the options list, is about as good as it gets – at any price.
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*advertorial
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he beginning of a new year always brings renewed energy, focus and determination, especially if you have just returned from a relaxing and enjoyable year-end break. January is a great time for business owners to plan for the year ahead. It is critical to set adequate time aside to plan before you get stuck into the daily operational grind. We encourage our clients to plan their year by making use of the following planning tools:
lost during 2018. •Review tactics or strategies that didn’t work in the previous year and understand why they didn’t work. •Identify specific areas for improvement in 2019 and plan how to achieve these improvements. •Review marketing performance and stats from 2018: which marketing strategies or campaigns delivered the most, which ones didn’t deliver as expected, etc. •Set 2019 goals and targets.
¥ 1-Day Strategic Planning Day For as long as I have been in my own business, I have always hosted a 1-day strategic planning day with my team in the January of each year. This has proven to be an invaluable tool in examining our past year’s performance, identifying areas
COACH'S CORNER In this column, Darryn Le Grange encourages business owners to plan for the year ahead for improvement, plotting how to improve in these areas, and assigning responsibility to team members. The exact content and agenda of this 1-day session will differ from business to business, but here
are some common agenda items that will apply to most: •Assess actual performance versus targets and goals for 2018. •Review customer information: new clients gained and clients
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ATTEND THE ACTIONCOACH IGNITE ENTREPRENEURS BREAKFAST ON HOW TO RECESSION-PROOF YOUR BUSINESS IN 2019 DATE: Friday February 8, 2019 VENUE: Makaranga Garden Lodge, 1 Igwababa Road, Kloof TIME: 8am for 8.30am – 12 noon COST: R195 per person Email adminkloof@ actioncoach.com to secure your seat
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¥ Annual Marketing Plan I am a firm believer that marketing is one of the key secrets to business success and therefore believe in the importance and value of producing an annual marketing plan. Marketing is the function of educating and communicating with your target audience. The marketing plan we produce in our business works on a weekly and monthly format, allowing my team and I to see all our planned marketing activities for each week of each month for the entire year at a glance. This plan takes out the guess work when it comes to when and how to market during the year. Once the plan is complete, it needs to become someone’s job to deliver on the plan and as the business owner or manager, your job is to hold that person accountable.
For a free copy of our marketing plan template, email Eadminkloof@ actioncoach.com Edarrynlegrange@actioncoach.com www.actioncoachignite.co.za WActionCOACHDurban/
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fashion*
LOCAL, UNIQUE & TIMELESS An alternative kids apparel label owned and run by Thea Cogill and Reese Baglione, Flynn Jaxon is designed with quality and comfort in mind story katrine anker-nilssen pictures tink photography
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lynn Jaxon is all about stylish garments in a neutral colour palette,” explains Reese, adding that they are a proudly South African brand. “All of our designs are created in-house and the entire range is manufactured locally. We source our fabric from SA suppliers, cotton-rich fabrics that feel amazing and are built to last and withstand the wear and tear expected for children’s clothing.” An online brand covering sizes newborn to eight, FJ brings in new colours and styles every season while retaining a few key basics. “We design ranges that are timeless and transseasonal,” says Reese. “Our matching FJ MAMMAs and recently launched FJ LADs ranges have also been well-received, and we are excited to bring you more adult styles soon.” In addition to clothing, FJ also offer accessories such as bandana bibs, slouchy beanies and headbands – as well as swimwear and an exclusive, locally-made genuine leather footwear range for kids. “Our signature style would have to be the romper, which is available in a range of colours and two styles – cropped and full-length – as well as a matching adult romper for our FJ MAMMAs, which has been a best-seller for the past year since its launch,” says Reese, adding that the bandana bibs are without doubt the most popular accessory. “They are one-size-fits-all with two size settings, great value for money. They are also incredibly soft, lined for extra absorbency and drape beautifully.” Extrovert Reese Baglione is a serial planner who loves a good list and a set of highlighters. With her husband, highschool sweetheart Alessandro, she has three-year-old Max Luca and one-year-old Lola Mae. “I grew up in the Upper Highway area and obtained my BSc in Dietetics at UKZN PMB in 2012. Completing my community service in Eshowe before returning to Gillitts, I worked in government practice until Max was born in July 2015.” Thea Cogill, who thrives on challenges and thinking out of »
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TOP: FJ owners Thea (left) and Reese (right) in their office. ABOVE: Left: HARPER and ROSIE knot headbands (R69 each), grey frilled baby vest (R160), SIENNA bandana bib (R89) and HULU shorties (R150). Right: HUDSON full-length romper (R250/R260), TAYLOR and HULU bandana bibs (R89 each) and white FJ KICKS (R485). LEFT: Reese and Nozi working together on a new range. OPPOSITE: Thea and Knox rocking the FJ signature black rompers. Black Adult romper (R465) and BOBBY cropped romper (R250/R260) with white FJ KICKS (R485).
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fashion* BELOW: Matching white Stripe T-shirt Dress (R225 and R395). RIGHT: Lola wears the LUNA cropped romper (R250/R260). RIGHT BELOW: Left to right: Riley wears a green stripe FINLEY romper (R250/R260) and ZOEY knot headband (R69); Knox wears a FJ Baseball Tee (R185) and mustard AVERY shorties (R150); Sambulo wears a DAKOTA ORIGINAL romper (R250/R260) accessorised with a THEO bandana bib (R89).
the box, matriculated at Kloof High School in 2000 before spending a year in Colorado. “It was the most incredible experience and it just solidified my love of travel and photography,” says Thea, who did a degree in Applied Value and Policy Studies at Stellenbosh – along with a photography night course. Back in Durban she spent two years learning and cultivating her skill with Kim Thunder before starting Tink Photography. “I have been working as a commercial and lifestyle photographer for 13 years now, and I love it,” she smiles. Seeing a gap in the market, Thea started Flynn Jaxon in March 2016 – together with her sister-in-law in Johannesburg. When she relocated to Durban with one-year-old son Lennox Fallon later that year, her sister-in-law left the business. “Realising I couldn’t do it alone, I was grateful when Reese agreed to come on board,” says Thea. “She has just catapulted the brand to the next level with her passion, creativity and great eye for detail.” Initially the idea was for Reese to help Thea out, but it quickly turned into FJ setting up a base at Reese’s home. “We soon realised how well we worked together and how perfectly our personalities complemented each other within the business,” says Reese.
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In January 2017 the girls decided to partner and push FJ to where it is today. “Thea offers an incredible creative insight and oversees our campaigns, and of course all the photography. I have always covered all the behind-the-scenes admin, customer service and planning – and now also design and production,” says Reese. Then there is Nozipho Msweli of course, the talented seamstress who has been with FJ since Thea and Reese partnered. After completing her sewing training at Embocraft, Nozi has fitted perfectly into the team and is an incredible asset to the business – responsible for manufacturing a large portion of the range. Currently working on a few transitional pieces for the cooler weather approaching, the FJ girls are also finishing off the next collection. “Essentially FJ has been in its teething phase for the past few years, especially with our families growing and all the challenges and limitations that that brings,” explains Reese. But the brand has grown beautifully in spite of this. “If 2018 is anything to go by, we are convinced that 2019 is going to elevate our brand to the next level.” www.flynnjaxon.co.za
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THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE TALLOULA EXPERIENCE
ABOVE: Hannah wears the latest FJ Long Sleeve Cozzie with complimentary gold headband (R230/R240), while Knox wears the striped Boys Swimming Trunks (R185/R195). LEFT: Lola (left) wears the ROSEY full-length romper (R250/R260), SIENNA bandana bib (R89) and ZOEY knot headband (R69). Riley wears the EVIE cropped romper (R250/R260) and ROSIE knot headband (R69).
OVERNIGHT, FULL OR HALF DAY PACKAGES AVAILABLE Check our monthly 2 for 1 Specials on facebook and instagram
talloulabothashill F E B R U A R Y
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61 Old Main Rd, Botha’s Hill 031-777 1586
advertorial*
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t may come as a surprise that a first world country – like the UK – has a shortage of suitable retirement properties. Compared with other developed countries like the USA, Australia and New Zealand where roughly 17% of retirees live in retirement communities, in England it’s only 4%. There is an opportunity for South Africans to reap rewards by investing in this undersupplied market. A South African run property sourcing company is working with experienced British developers who convert existing stately homes into retirement villages. These properties are located in the sunniest parts of the south west of England where as much as 25% of the population is over 65 – certainly a captive market. How it works Investors acquire a property within the retirement village which is then leased back to
Property ownership and rand hedge Full title deeds of the property are in the investor’s name, and the operating company leases the property. This is the ideal investment for a South African investor because the day-to-day running of the business – finding prospective retirees, recruiting and managing staff, property repairs and collecting rent – is the responsibility of the operator. All the investors do is sit back and receive the rental income each month. A typical retirement property investment will start at R1,5-million and generate a healthy R150 000 net income per annum. But remember, this 10% net income is paid in pounds – which is an important fact considering that the pound is, at the moment, still relatively cheap in rand terms. The outlook for the rand is that it could continue to lose
RETIRE & EARN More and more retirees are leading healthier lifestyles, living longer, and, when it’s time to downsize, want to move into a retirement home where luxury and care are key to their future. An opportunity for South Africans to invest in a retirement option in the UK is ticking all the right boxes the operator for a period of 10 years. Once investment has been secured, the developer oversees modest refurbishment, while the operator is responsible for bringing the property to full occupancy. The investor, in turn, receives rental income of 10% net per annum.
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value against the pound, which is why investors looking to protect their retirement income should consider investing now, as any devalue in the rand would have an equal and opposite effect on their income thereby providing a perfect rand hedge.
For example: a 20% decrease in the rand value would mean that their return on this investment would increase from 10% to 12%. That extra income would come in handy for any parents looking to visit children who have immigrated overseas.
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Luxury retirement vs nursing homes as an investment Luxury retirement villages differ from nursing homes in that they do not primarily accommodate those who need 24-hour nursing care, but rather those able-bodied retirees who
INV EST IN
THE UK FRO MR 1,5 -M ILL ION LEFT: South Africans can purchase a suite in Lindors from R1,5-million and benefit from it being a fully managed investment, and receive a 10% return guaranteed over a 10-year commercial lease.
want to live in a community with access to assistance with personal care, fine dining and organised events. Luxury retirement homes are not reliant on the same number of nursing staff, as many
These properties are typically attractive conversions of Victorian properties which have been stylishly refurbished to a high specification. The environments provide an assisted living environment
Luxury retirement home investment opportunities Lindors is a luxury retirement home investment based in Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that spans several counties in Wales and
A 20% decrease in the rand value would mean that their return on this investment would increase from 10% to 12% occupants are still fully able and do not require specialist help. Also, they are not dependent on funding from local councils, as the residents are self-funded. This niche market is targeting those who desire more luxurious surroundings.
whereby the guests can retain their independence and have of the following services provided: •Meals and accommodation. •Emotional and physical support. •Help with personal care. •Social activities. •Wine tasting events.
bordering England. This year the developer will transform the 19th century country house into 23 luxury suites and lodges, offering spectacular views of the nineacre grounds. Accommodation will be available for both short-
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term and long-term stays, and this flexibility will be beneficial in terms of occupancy levels. Residents can enjoy the beautiful surroundings by taking scenic walks, or if they prefer a slower pace, they can stay in and take advantage of the on-site amenities. To cultivate a community, regular wine tasting and fine dining activities will be held. South Africans can purchase a suite in Lindors from R1,5-million and benefit from it being a fully managed investment, and receive a 10% return guaranteed over a 10-year commercial lease. It is not just One Touch Investment who think this is a good sector; wealth manager L&G has recently acquired a portfolio of £500-million later living communities. If you wish to explore this or other UK property investments further, One Touch Property visit South Africa quarterly to host one-onone consultations with potential investors. Their next trip will be in February 2019, so now is the right time to book your consultation and make sure your future is secure.
One Touch Investment: 010 300 1200 E enquire@onetouchinvestment.co.uk www.onetouchinvestment.co.uk
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weekend escapes*
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TIME TO GET AWAY You’ve survived the festive season, but now it’s time to start planning a weekend escape up the North Coast – without breaking the bank, writes Lorna King 46
urbanites are truly spoilt for choice when looking for a weekend away, and with the number of game reserves and bush and wildlife activities offered up the North Coast, it’s good to know affordable, yet good accommodation is available. Set on KZN’s Elephant Coast, the threestar Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris is ideally situated close to Hluhluwe Game Reserve on the one side, and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a world heritage site, on the other. Boasting more than 80 rooms, two four-bed self-catering rondavels and a five-star selfcatering lodge which is great for families, the standard accommodation at Anew is clean, spacious and basic – just what you’d expect on a bush experience. A beautiful swimming pool with bar area is the perfect place for relaxing as you listen to the sounds of gushing water competing with the chattering of birdlife coming from the bird sanctuary on the hotel grounds. Alternatively, if you just want to curl up with a good book, a comfortable lounge area is ideal. The restaurant offers buffet-style food, and every night when the drums beat you know it’s time for traditional Zulu dancing at the beautiful boma – a spectacle not to be missed. But be prepared – you might find yourself shaking a leg and causing a dust storm as you stomp away on the ground. There’s more than enough to pack into a weekend in and around Hluhluwe. A game drive to nearby Hluhluwe Game Reserve is a must, and our trusty, knowledgeable guide made the adventure all the more enjoyable for us. From game drives to whale watching, scuba diving, bird watching, hiking, visiting the Zulu Croc Repile Park, or taking in an educational tour at the Dumazulu Traditional Village, you’ll be hard pressed to find time for an afternoon snooze. If it’s good old-fashioned comfort and familyfriendly service you’re after that won’t break the bank, then Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris ticks all the boxes. 035 562 4000 anewhotels.com/hotels/hluhluwe-safaris
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GO GREEN PRACTICAL ECO TIPS
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ncreasing global environmental consciousness is driving the growth of green technologies. In South Africa the lack of a regulated market has seen the emergence of cowboys and fly-by-nights that have created a negative image for the industry. At AdRenewables we are driven by a desire to see an acceleration in the adoption of existing green technologies and the development of new technologies. These investments will only occur when the market has service providers they can trust. With over 10 years of
In 1964 Nikolai Kardashev described what is now known as the Kardashev Scale. It is a way of measuring the technological advancement of any given civilisation based on its ability to harness and use power. A TYPE 1 CIVILISATION has been able to harness all of the power
available on its home planet. A TYPE 2 CIVILISATION can harness all of the power generated by its parent star. A TYPE 3 CIVILISATION can control energy on the scale of its entire host galaxy.
According to the latest calculations, the human civilisation is rated as a 0,73 Type Civilisation. Whether or not we make it to a Type 1 Civilisation will largely depend on our ability to develop sustainable energy technologies that do not destroy ourselves or our host planet.
Scalable Biogas Digesters Imagine being able to throw all of your organic waste – we’re talking food scraps, dog waste, grease and oils, bones, you name it – into a digester
reduction in CO² emissions, we need a way of cheaply storing large amounts of energy in a technology that is going to last a very long time. Made of earth-abundant materials, a team at MIT have
energy, where the dips in supply are provided by a silent and emission-free battery rather than a coal or nuclear power plant. It has been exciting spending the last few months sharing some of our ideas and
THE FUTURE OF
GREEN TECHNOLOGY dedicated service to the industry, we have won the trust of our clients. Driven by our vision for a more sustainable future we do so much more than keep our finger on the pulse of what is coming. We dedicate any spare time and resources to the research and development of new technologies we aim to bring to the South African market. Here are just two of the technologies we think you should be getting excited about in the future.
that will have two outputs: liquid fertiliser and refined methane. I know some of you will be saying that your worm farm takes care of most of that for you already, but worm-tea is infinitely less useful than a self-generated source of safe cooking and heating fuel. Now imagine being able to scale this technology up to meet the needs of commercial and community interests. Liquid Metal Batteries If we want renewable energy to succeed at the scale required for a significant
developed a liquid metal battery that ticks all the boxes. This technology is cheap to build, simple, safe and scalable. These batteries will allow communities and even entire countries to shift to 100% renewable
achievements with you. I hope you have enjoyed them, and if you would like to keep hearing about these amazing green technologies, please get in touch or follow us on Facebook @AdRenewables
Through his team at AdRenewables Sebastian Brogan is designing and developing technologies that complement their core offerings of solar electricity and rainwater harvesting. The team is dedicated to a more sustainable future and utilise technology to drive this vision in southern Africa.
sebastian@adrenewables.co.za | 083 264 4383 F E B R U A R Y
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o how was your Christmas break? Anything new and exciting? In case you’re interested, the most thrilling thing that happened to me was that I had a chance to be Lawrence of Arabia. Well, sort of. I got to ride a camel. OK, it was only for 250m at Warner Beach, and there was a bloke strolling along ahead of the beast holding a lead, but at least I didn’t accidentally shoot my camel in the back of the head while charging into battle like T.E. Lawrence did in 1917. As is my wont, once I got home I asked my friend Mr
CAMEL CONTEST
Who would have thought that camels would be competing for R75-million prize money in a beauty contest, laughs Gavin Foster illustration jeremy nell Google to tell me a little about the camel, surely the stupidest, ugliest, most disagreeable mammal on the face of the planet. I soon came up with a website where an Emirati animal psychologist, Ali Al Ameri, was quoted as saying that camels, usually pretty docile creatures, are more intelligent than horses, and have looooong memories. “The horse is a very forgiving animal even when people are bad to them,” he told a Middle East publication, The National, in an interview. “Camels, however, are not. They’re smarter than
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horses. Camels think a lot more and they remember everything. If you hurt a camel he will never forget you and he’ll do his best to get you. And eventually, if he can, he will kill you!” Scary stuff, hey? A quick check on Google soon confirmed that Mr Al Ameri certainly wasn’t spinning a yarn, so we’ll leave it at that and move quickly on to something less painful – the camel’s legendary ugliness. This is where things get really interesting. I discovered that at the same time I was entertaining Warner Beach on my camel, a month-long annual festival
involving perhaps 30 000 of the animals and up to 100 000 spectators was taking place in an annual shindig in Dubai. There are all sorts of competitions involving camels, and one of the main attractions is a beauty contest. And beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. “The winner must have a long neck and legs, delicate ears, a shapely hump, a large head, thick eyelashes and a sleek dark coat,” explained Mr Al Shamsi, one of the judges. The animal’s walk, its lips, its nose, its size and its skin tone and colour all play a role in determining
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the perceived beauty of these even-toed ungulates, and the prize money and prestige earned by emerging victorious in any of the numerous classes are huge. At the festival there are food stalls, souvenir shops, and a planetarium demonstrating how the Bedouin have for thousands of years used the stars to navigate the deserts on camels. You’ll also find veterinary surgeons. Lots of ’em. Their role, apart from the obvious animal welfare issues, is to frustrate cheats, of which there’ll always be plenty when there’s R75-million in prize money up for grabs. Last year 12 camels were disqualified from the beauty competition when the judges established that they’d benefitted from the services of crooked plastic surgeons. “They use Botox for the lips, the nose, the upper lips, the lower lips and even the jaw,” Ali al-Mazrouei, the son of an Emirati camel breeder, told The National. “It makes the head more inflated, so when the camel comes it’s like, ‘Oh, look at how big that head is. It has big lips, a big nose’.” Camel populations worldwide are shrinking. In the Middle East they’re not considered as useful as they once were, in Australia there are so many roaming the outback that the government wants to start culling them, and the Wild Bactrian Camels of Northern China and Southern Mongolia are – after more than a million years – now critically endangered. At least the American military isn’t gunning for them. President George W. Bush said in response to the 9/11 atrocity, “When I take action, I’m not going to fire a $2-million missile at a $10 empty tent and hit a camel in the butt. It’s going to be decisive.” Indeed. That was 18 short years ago.
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