Community Ch@ April 2017

April 2017

Happy Easter Keep

Your Heart Healthy

MALARIA

The Risk is Still High

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Editor’s Message Easter is generally a sad time for me personally, as it marks the loss of a very special man in my life, but you will find very little sadness in this issue. The last week of the month is aways my favourite, as that’s when I put together the next issue of the magazine. Our April issue is full of content which I believe you will find both entertaining and informative.

Please join me in welcoming all our new advertisers, and remember to support them. Without our advertisers, we will not be able to keep you entertained every month.

I would like to remind you that we have books and vouchers to give away every month, so be sure to visit our website, www.featzpublishing.com and click on the WIN button, or simply send us an email featzmags@gmail.com to be entered into the draw.

I wish all our readers a blessed and safe easter weekend, take a moment to remember the true meaning of easter and try not to eat too many chocolates.

Until next time, Happy Reading!

S N O I T A L U T A R G N CO

Our March Book Winner:

Marizanne Booyens

To advertise contact Zelda Tel: 012 348 3486 Cell: 084 041 3058 email: featzads@gmail.com www.featzpublishing.com Upcoming Submission Deadlines for Advertisers and Contributors May Issue: 20 April 2017 June Issue 24 May 2017

Published by Featz Publishing (Pty) Ltd and distributed via email.

No responsibility is accepted by Featz Publishing (Pty) Ltd for claims, errors or omissions made in advertisements appearing in this issue. All our advertisers are accepted in good faith and we are not responsible for views expressed by contributors or other sources. Reproduction of the content of this magazine is not permitted without the prior consent of the publisher.

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What’s Inside...

Autism Spectrum Disorder

6

Brussels Griffon

9

How did April Fools’ Day Start?

11

False Olive

12

African Cuckoo

14

Malaria - the risk is still high

16

Managing your Wedding Day

20

Eric’s Corner - Springbok Classic Air - Visited

24

Why Recycle - The Waste Group

28

Grace - Part 14

32

A Sad Day

in History

She was touted as the safest ship ever built, so safe that she carried only 20 lifeboats – enough to provide accommodation for only half her 2,200 passengers and crew. This discrepancy rested on the belief that since the ship’s construction made her “unsinkable” her lifeboats were only necessary to rescue survivors of other sinking ships. Additionally, lifeboats took up valuable deck space.

Four days into her journey, at 11h40 on the night of April 14th, she struck an iceberg. Her fireman compared the sound of the impact to “the tearing On April 10, 1912, The Titanic, Largest Ship afloat, of calico, nothing more.” However, the collision left Southampton, England on her maiden voyage was fatal and the icy water soon poured through to New York City. The White Star Line had spared the ship. no expense in assuring her luxury. A legend even before she sailed, her passengers were a mixture The next morning, the liner Carpathia rescued of the world’s wealthiest basking in the elegance 705 survivors. One thousand five hundred and twenty two passengers and crew were lost. of first class accommodations and immigrants packed into steerage.

April 14 , 1912 th

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Autism Spectrum Disorders Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder, which affects how the person communicates and interacts with others.

It also impacts how they understand and relate to the world around them. Autism occurs on a spectrum which means that while all people with autism share the same difficulties, the condition affects them in different ways. Some people are severely affected and others can function independently within society.

The support needed is based on how the disability affects the person’s everyday life.

There are three core difficulties of autism which are often referred to as the triad of impairment. These are; social interaction, communication and imagination.

I.

II.

Social interaction is challenging because people with autism struggle to understand the emotions and feelings that they experience. As a result, social behaviour such as taking part in conversations, recognizing and understanding emotions as well as the use of eye contact, body language, gestures and facial expressions are difficult. Social integration within communities, schools and activities are always areas of concern.

by Vicky Lamb

intense support (such as speechlanguage therapy, communication devices and programmes) in order to communicate with others.

III.

Imagination within autism is usually restricted. As a result, people with autism have a preference for routine and have repetitive behaviours (like spinning objects all the time). Children with autism often play inappropriately with toys (e.g. line up cars instead of pretending to drive the cars).

Individuals with autism may struggle with changes to their environment or any other form of lifestyle changes. Understanding change is also an area of difficulty.

Many individuals with autism also have intellectual difficulties and require special educational services. The availability of such services as well as the type of service provision and resources available is often limited in South Africa which means that many children with autism do not receive educational opportunities.

Sensory issues are also evident in many individuals with autism. This means that their bodies react very differently to the senses such as sound, touch, taste, smell and hearing. Often these reactions are severe enough to impede their Communication difficulties include functioning within everyday life (i.e. they limitations in understanding and can’t take the noise of the toilet flushing speaking/expressing oneself. Often or they battle to eat certain foods). they have little to no speech or Often autism co-exists with other language behaviours. It is difficult disorders such as attention deficit for them to communicate with disorder and epilepsy. Autism is also the world. Very often they require known to exist with cerebral palsy, down syndrome or other neurological

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conditions. Asperger’s is also considered individuals who are coming up with to be part of the autism spectrum of revolutionary ideas to change the world. disorders.

This year, 2017, Autism South Africa There are no genetic, biological or is again embarking on the Light It Up blood markers for diagnosing autism.

Blue Campaign for autism, with a theme Rather, the diagnosis is based on careful centering around #ChangeYourMind. The behavioural observations by medical Light It Up Blue Campaign, is traditionally clinicians. celebrated on the 2nd of April every year.

This has unanimously been declared by While there are many difficulties and the United Nations General Assembly challenges that come with autism, there (A/RES/62/139), to highlight the needs are strengths, and many on the spectrum to help improve the quality of life of have used their strengths not only to their children and adults affected by autism, so benefit, but to also benefit those around they can lead full and meaningful lives. them. #ChangeYourMind aims to show people that being different can be a good thing.

Temple Grandin is an example of this; We want to spotlight the different ways she is arguably the most well-known autistic people are changing the world, autistic individual around. Using her and in doing so change people’s mind special interest in cattle, she was able about autism. to develop a more humane method of slaughter when cattle are sent to an abattoir. And, just like Temple Grandin there are many other autistic

April 2017 - 7

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Brussels Griffon The 1997 movie; “As Good As It Gets” starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt features a very cute Brussels Griffon, to see a clip from the movie to remind you what this little guy looked like, click here.

The intelligent and cheerful Griffon has a terrierlike disposition and is known for his human-like expressions. The Griffon will make an honest watchdog and can be taught tricks – with some patients. The caring, charming and curious temperament of the Griffon makes it a very good companion dog. They are active, little dogs and if kept indoors will need daily walks.

The Griffon’s very human expression will attract the eye of dog lovers very quickly. They express immeasurable self-importance in their temperament and posture. The Griffon is a square-proportioned dog, with a thick-set, wellboned and compact body. They move with a deliberate trot. The coat comes in various colour options. The coat can be either rough with thin, arduous hair that’s longer circling the head, or sleek with a shiny, short coat. The Griffon will require regular brushing as well as a visit to the parlour at least every three months.

If you are looking for a sensitive, playful pet – look no further than the Griffon. Families with babies might find the Griffon a little boisterous, but this little dog beams with confidence, life and enthusiasm.

training can prove to be a challenge.

However, a firm, confident and patient trainer will reap the rewards of this little fella’s intelligence.

If you would like to add a Griffon puppy to your family, you will be glad to know that they usually get along well with other animals and with children who treat them with respect (Please remember it is your responsibility to teach your children how to treat animals.) A Google search will quickly put you in touch with local breeders in the Pretoria Area.

Vital Stats: Height: 17 - 20cm Weight: 2 - 6kgs Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years

While the Griffon is a frisky, mischievous, bold and often stubborn dog, they don’t like to be left alone and can suffer from separation anxiety.

Although the Griffon is an intelligent dog, they are not easy to train, and house

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Easter Treat

Easter Bunny Bread Ingredients:

• 2 loaves bread dough (ready-made bags of dough available from the bakery section of your local grocery store) • 2 raisins • 2 sliced almonds • 1 egg, lightly beaten • Dip of your choice Directions: 1) Cut a fourth of one bread dough, shape into a pear form for the head. For the body, flatten remaining portion into an 18cm x 15cm oval; place on a greased baking sheet. Place the head above the body. Make narrow cuts, on each side of the head for whiskers.

2) Cut second loaf into four equal portions of dough. For ears shape two portions into 40cm ropes, fold ropes in half. Arrange ears with open ends touching the head. Cut a third portion of dough in half; shape each into a 9cm oval for back paws. Cut two slits on top edge for toes. Position on each side of the body.

3) Divide the fourth portion of dough into three pieces. Shape two pieces in 6cm balls for front paws, shape the remaining piece into two 2.5cm balls for cheeks and one 1.5cm ball for the nose. Place the paws on each side of the body, cut two slits for toes. Place cheeks and nose on face. Use raisins for eyes and almonds for teeth.

4) Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 – 45 minutes. Brush the dough with egg. Bake at 180oC for 25 – 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove to a wire rack to cool.

5) Place bread on a serving tray. Cut a circle in the centre of the body. Place a 1 cup size shallow bowl in the hole and fill with dip.

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No Kidding:

T

he what of April Fools’ Day is pretty clear, it’s a day for pranks – for better or for worse. But the why is a mystery.

The history of April Fools’ Day or All Fools’ Day is uncertain, there are various theories about how it started, but the most common thinking is that it began around 1582 in France with the reform of the calendar under Charles IX. The Gregorian calendar was introduced, and New Year’s Day was moved from March 25 – April 1 (New Year’s week) to January 1st.Communication travelled slowly in those days and some people were only informed of the change several years later. Still others, who were more rebellious refused to acknowledge the change and continued to celebrate on the last day of the former celebration, April 1st.

These people were labelled “fools” by the general populace, were subject to ridicule and sent on “fool errands”, sent invitations to non-existent parties and had practical jokes played upon

We Have No Idea How April Fools’ Day Started them. The butts of these pranks became known as a “poisson d’avril” or “April fish” because young naïve fish are easily caught. In addition, one common practice was to hook a paper fish on the back of someone as a joke.

This harassment evolved over time and a custom of prank-playing continued on the first day of April. This tradition eventually spread elsewhere like to Britain and Scotland in the 18th century and was introduced to the American colonies by the English and the French. Because of this spread to other countries, April Fools’ Day has taken on an international flavour with each country celebrating the holiday in its own way.

No matter where in the world you happen to be on April 1st, don’t be surprised if April fools fall playfully upon you.

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False Olive

Witolien - Buddleja Salinga This fast growing tree is an excellent screen plant. It grows up to 800mm per year. It also makes a very good clipped hedge. It is evergreen, frost hardy and draught resistant and the masses of flowers make a lovely spring and summer show. It will grow in most soils, but added compost will improve performance. It may need to be cut back after flowering to keep it tidy.

The False Olive is widespread in South Africa, from the Western Cape through to Zimbabwe, extending inland from the coast

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to central South Africa and the Kalahari thornbush in the Northwest. The habitats are very varied. It is found growing on dry hillsides, in mixed scrub, wooded valleys, forest margins, along streams and in coastal bush.

The False Olive will grow up to 10 meters tall in warm moist areas, but usually only between 4 to 5 meters in Highveld areas.

The young stems are four angled and covered with white velvety hairs. The older stems and trunks are creamy or grey to dark brown and flute with the bark peeling in longitudinal strips.

The leaves are long and narrow – somewhat

similar to the Olive, from which it gets its common name – but more textured. The leaf upper surface is hairless and dark green, the underside is whitish with prominently raised venation. The flowers are tiny, creamy white and borne in dense sprays usually at the end of branches. The flowers have a lovely honey scent and appear from spring to summer.

The seeds are very small, forming in tiny, hairy capsules which develop in the dried out flowers.

Used for traditional medicinal purposes, the roots as a purgative and the leaves to treat coughs and colds. The wood is very finely grained and was used to make small pieces of furniture. The straight branches were used to make fence posts. The False Olive was also used to make assegai handles. It makes good fuel wood as it burns with an intense heat. The large amount of pollen and nectar it produces makes it a popular choice among bee farmers.

The flowers attract insects – especially moths – and therefore insect feeding birds such as Robins and Apalises are attracted to the garden.

The False Olive is also a popular bonsai choice for the following reasons: 1) They have a high survival rate after being removed from the wild.

2) They bud everywhere, allowing good branch placement.

3) The branch growth is fast.

4) The leaves reduce to about 5mm.

5) The branches can be bent with wire.

6) The bark can be carved with an interesting grain and texture.

7) It is an evergreen.

HERE IS TO THE POWER OF 10!

As part of our 10th Anniversary Celebrations in 2017, Leapfrog Property Group will be raising funds for 100 children to receive corrective cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries.

That’s giving smiles to 10 children, every month for 10 months.

For more information or to make a contribution, please contact: Elna Bosman 082 341 4750 elna.bosman51@gmail.com

www.leapfrogsmiles.co.za

African Cuckoo

Cuculus Gularis The African Cuckoo occupies a huge area of sub-Saharan African.

In South Africa, it is fairly common in the Northern and North-eastern parts of the country. This shy, unobtrusive bird generally prefers open woodland and Acacia savannah, avoiding evergreen forest areas. They are intra-African breeding migrants, arriving in South Africa around August or September, going through its full breeding cycle before departing between March and April.

The African Cuckoo is a brood parasite, meaning that it lays its eggs in other birds’ nests. The host – usually the Fork-tailed Drongo – thinking that the egg is its own, incubates the eggs and cares for the chick. The egg-laying season

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is between September and December peaking from October to November. Both Sexes participates in the egg-laying process; the male distracts the hosts while the female flies into the host nest, removes any existing eggs before laying one of her own. The egg is incubated by the host for 11 to 17 days. The chick will remove any remaining host eggs in the nest, eventually leaving the nest when it is about 23 days old.

This is a medium-sized species with a long tail, a total length of 32cm. Its dashing flight makes it resemble a bird of prey. The sexes are similar, the head, upper parts and wings are dark grey, the throat and breast pale grey and the belly white, barred with dark grey. The tail is dark grey with dark barring and a white tip. The eye

is yellow in the male and light brown in the female. The beak is yellow, tipped in black. The legs and feet are yellowish.

The Cuckoo’s diet is almost exclusively made up of caterpillars, The juvenile has two colour forms; but they have the grey morph is greyer than the been known adult with white barring, the under to also eat parts being creamy-white with dense birds’ eggs dark barring. The hepatic morph is and nestlings. brown rather than grey, the white They forage being replaced by buff or a tawny amongst hue. the foliage of trees and shrubs, occasionally flying to the ground to The call of the male is “coo-coo” pick up prey items. with the second note higher and louder than the first. The female The African Cuckoo is not a utters a bubbling “kwik-kwik-kwik”. threatened bird.

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MALARIA the risk is still high

Introduction Although, we are nearing the end of summer, the risk of contracting malaria in certain areas is still high – we have had very good rains this summer, which is wonderful for the farmers, but not so great for the increase in malaria risk!

Before travelling, make sure you know your risk and take the appropriate precautions. Consulting a travel clinic near you will enable you to come home malaria-free!

Key facts of Malaria in Southern Africa • Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.

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•

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Malaria is preventable and curable, and increased efforts are dramatically reducing the malaria burden in many places.

In South Africa, there has been a total of 6540 cases in 2016-17 season so far (the South African season is from September to the end of May), with the majority occurring in January and February, of which many of them are imported from our neighbouring countries.

There has however been a sharp increase in local cases (those contracted within our borders)

Disease burden globally according to the World Health Organization (WHO) The WHO released their latest estimates in December 2016 with an estimated 212 million cases in 2015 and 429 000 deaths worldwide.

The good news is that between 2010 and 2015, the malaria incidence fell by 21% globally with mortality rates decreasing by 29%.

Sub-Saharan Africa however carries

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Dr Rochelle Lee - SASTM the highest share of the malaria burden by being the home of 90% of malaria cases and 92% deaths, with more than 70% of all Malaria related deaths occuring in children under 5 years of age, taking the life of a child every two minutes.

Transmission Malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites that are spread to humans via the bite of infected Female Anopheles mosquitoes (Malaria Vectors). These mosquitoes bite between dusk and dawn.

There are 5 known Plasmodium species, but 2 of these species pose the biggest risk to humans namely P.falciparum and P.vivax.

•

P. falciparum is the most prevalent parasite on the African continent and causes the most deaths related to Malaria.

•

P. vivax is the dominant malaria parasite in most countries outside of sub-Saharan Africa.

About the mosquito: Anopheles mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, which hatch into larvae, eventually emerging as adult mosquitoes. The female mosquitoes seek a blood meal to nurture their eggs, and this they get from biting humans. If the human is infected with the malaria parasite, the mosquito then becomes infected, and the parasites mature in the mosquito. When the mosquito bites again, the parasites are transmitted to the human, thus infecting him or her with malaria.

Climate is also one of the main reasons for transmission; namely rainfall, temperature and humidity, as these affect the number and survival of mosquitoes, with seasonal peaks according to the weather conditions.

‘Odyssean’ Malaria

The NICD (National Institute for Communicable Diseases) has recently received notification of a number of malaria cases in Doornpoort, Tshwane, and Swartruggens, North-west, which are not considered malaria areas. None of these patients had travelled at all.

In these cases, it is the mosquito that has travelled! Occasionally a mosquito is brought in via bus or aeroplane and this is known as Odyssean malaria, which fortunately is rare.

Symptoms

preferred and proper maintenance of these nets is essential. Pyrethroids are the only class of insecticides currently recommended for the nets and they have the benefit of actually killing the mosquitoes.

• Bite Prevention: •

Close windows and doors and remain indoors from dusk to dawn.

•

Use an insect repellent that contains DEET on exposed skin.

Lotions and spray options are available. Do not rely on natural products. A lot of research has been done of finding the correct percentage (around 20%-50%) of DEET in certain products to provide maximum protection, more or less than that has been proven ineffective.

•

Natural or homeopathic products have been proven ineffective or not as effective as products containing DEET.

•

Wear long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing, long trousers and socks.

Malaria symptoms may only develop 10-14 days after an infective mosquito bite.

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•

Non-specific, flu-like symptoms are common presenting symptoms of malaria. Some of these include: fever, rigors, headache, sweating, fatigue, muscle aches and pains (back and limbs), abdominal pain, diarrhoea, appetite loss, nausea and vomiting, cough.

In young children, malaria may present with fever, lethargy, poor feeding and vomiting.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have flu-like symptoms for up to six months after visiting a malaria area.

Who is at risk?

Sub-Saharan Africa still has the most cases and deaths, however, South-East Asia, Latin-America and Middle East are also at risk.

•

Some groups are at higher risk of contracting malaria and developing severe disease. These include children under 5 years old, Pregnant women and non-immune travellers.

Prevention • Insecticide-treated mosquito nets Long-lasting insecticidal nets are

Remember nets Antimalarial drugs Chemoprophylaxis can be given to travellers to suppress the blood stage of malaria infections after maturing in the liver, thus preventing the disease.

•

There are different types of medications available depending on the needs of the patient ie.

Destination and resistance against

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prophylaxis, Chronic illness, chronic medications, age and pregnancy.

The South African Department of Health has listed the available chemoprophylaxis in their Guidelines for the Prevention of malaria in South Africa (Department of Health (2009) Guidelines for the Prevention of Malaria in South Africa). These include mefloquine, doxycycline and atovaquone-proguanil.

The most important detail about antimalarial medication rests on the same principle as antibiotic treatment, FINISH THE COURSE. As with most antibiotics, everyone adheres to the ‘finish the course’ rule, but not always with antimalarial treatment. The course needs to be completed, either for 7 days after returning from destination or for 4 weeks after returning, depending on the type of medication taken.

Please make sure when taking any medication that you know exactly how to take your medication and when to stop.

Doxycycline is now available without a prescription.

For prophylaxis, doxycycline is taken once daily beginning 1–2 days before travel, while in malarious areas, and for 4 weeks after leaving. Daily dosage for children ≥ 8 years of age is 2.2 mg/ kg (not to exceed the adult dose of 100 mg) and for adults is 100 mg.

Vaccines against malaria There are currently no licensed vaccines against malaria or any other human parasite. One research vaccine against P. falciparum, known as RTS, S/ AS01, is the most advanced, but is not for travellers.

Diagnosis and treatment Early diagnosis and treatment remains the most important strategy to reduce mortality due to malaria. Parasitebased diagnostic testing remains the

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mainstay in diagnosing malaria either by microscopy of rapid testing if formal laboratory testing is not available.

Treatment must only be given after confirmation of infection to reduce resistance.

The best available treatment for Malaria, especially P.falciparum, with the least resistance is Artemisininbased combination therapy (ACT) initiated as soon as a diagnosis is made.

In conclusion: PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE! Remember the ABC’s of prevention: A: Awareness – be aware of the risk B: Bite prevention – avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, take the necessary precautions C: Chemoprophylaxis – use prophylaxis to protect yourself against malaria when necessary D: Diagnosis - insist on diagnostic tests if fever develops a week or more after exposure to malaria E: Effective – malaria treatments are available and it is important to get the appropriate treatment specific to your circumstances

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Stephen van Basten

Managing your wedding day, on your wedding day I cannot count the times I have uttered the following sentence: “John and Mary, now that you have signed the register, take a moment to be together, have a hug and a kiss before you go to meet your guests, this is the last time today you will spend quality time together.”

People often ask me if I have ever had a runaway bride or groom. NO not in 20 years.

People often ask me if anyone has ever seriously objected to a marriage. NO not in 20 years.

I have had several brides call me up a week before the wedding to ask if they are making a mistake getting married. I have had several brides and grooms have a massive fall out in the days and weeks coming up to the wedding day. I have had a couple of brides and grooms having a humdinger of

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an argument at the wedding reception itself.

I have even had a couple leave separately and almost break off the marriage just five hours after saying “I do”. I also refuse to do marriage coaching in the two months leading up to the wedding day.

You echo a million past brides when you say, “But Stephen, our wedding day should be the happiest day of our lives! It’s the day we get married. The day we have our family and friends all together in one place to witness our vows and then have a party with us!”

Here is the rub.

Planning a wedding is stressful. Having a wedding is expensive. Agreeing on every detail is almost impossible! Keeping EVERYONE happy, a fantasy.

Very often, the bride has been looking forward to and planning this for years.

The groom on the other hand, knows that

one day he will be married and have some kids and has a vague perception that this will entail a wedding ceremony.

Very often the bride will want full participation from the groom. Very few men can achieve this to the required degree.

Going to a wedding expo and checking out all of the different stands, chatting to suppliers and seeing what’s new may be heaven for the bride and bridesmaid but torture for the groom.

While the bride sees a beautifully orchestrated day in exquisite surroundings, the groom wonders if the money would have been better spent on a good deposit on a house.

I suggest you simply realise your differences, accept each other and plan around it. Use a wedding budget and then agree on who does what. What you each need to do on your own, and what you agree to do together.

Be patient with one another.

Be kind to one another.

This is about the two of you getting married. Don’t forget the Spiritual while you plan the material and physical aspects.

Now we add personalities.

Everyone wants the best wedding for you.

Unfortunately, everyone

has a different vision of what a perfect wedding is. Everyone will want to add their view and give their opinion and everyone is correct – for them. I strongly suggest that you get emotionally strong here. Decide with your spouse what you want.

Then ask lots of people what they suggest. Then tweak what you want together. You need to let everyone know that while their input is valuable, you retain the right to take it or leave it. Thank them profusely for caring and sharing and then use what you like.

This gets tricky when you add money. This version of the golden rule is often very true. “He who has the gold, makes the rules”. If your parents are paying for most of the wedding, they may feel that they have some rights as to how it is spent.

On top of that, I predict that your wedding will cost you at least 50% and sometimes 100% more than your initial estimate. It’s difficult to ask dad for more money AND ignore his suggestions!

I often get brides asking me how to handle a meddling mother-in-law. This is tricky.

You want the wedding your way but have a life-long relationship with motherin-law and her son. To be honest, I don’t know what advice to give here. This one is incredibly

tricky. Here is a thought.

When you get to a situation where you cannot agree, generally someone will be angry or resentful. If you do it their way, you will be resentful on the day. If you do it your way, they will be resentful. My advice; be selfish and let them be resentful on your wedding day.

I have observed that very often weddings, funerals and Christmas bring out the worst in families. They seem to magnify the family issues.

On the one hand, the family rally together as a team while on the other hand, those irritating little foibles seem to re-surface. Fore-warned is fore-armed.

My friends, you cannot imagine the intensity of the wedding day. There are a million things going on. A million people doing things. A million thoughts going through your minds. A

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myriad of relationships tugging in opposite directions. Minister, DJ, Caterer, décor, flowers, drinks, petals, rings, photos, ID copies, candles, parents, friends, aunts, uncles, grandparents, acquaintances, groomsmen, bridesmaids, hair dresser, makeup artist, flower girls, ring bearer, wedding planner, wedding crashers and a whole lot more.

Now add all of the relationships and their requisite expectations. The bride and groom expect this to be the happiest day of their lives. It’s the day they become husband and wife. It’s all about them. They will revel in the attention of friends and family while being together most of the night. Not really!

Actually, it’s also about the friends and family and they will all vie for your attention. On the way to the wedding a lot of people will comment to their partner, “Man, I wonder how long the minister is going to go on for?

I hope he does not bore us for hours!” The groom and his groomsmen have a BOY relationship. They punch one another, heckle each other, play tricks and DRINK. The bride and her bridesmaids have a GIRLY friendship.

The bride and groom will have a myriad of possible relationships with their parents, siblings, new parents in law and siblings in law. There could be people there you don’t know, people you don’t like, people who you wish could have made it and invariably, people who have passed before who you dearly wish were still around.

I suggest you do not add alcohol to this cocktail too soon. Especially if you have taken a prescribed calming tablet or tranquiliser! You have probably not eaten properly over the last couple of days. The chances are you have not slept well either. If you have just a sip too much alcohol before the wedding ceremony, you may be too zonked to actually be mentally present and if you take too many tranquilisers you may even miss you own wedding even though you are present physically . I would rather

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you cried through the entire wedding than look at the minister with pupils that don’t dilate!

It is also an incredibly long day. You will be up early and leave late. It could be 15 to 18 hours long in total. You will be drained on many levels but mostly physically and emotionally. Everyone will want a piece of you. Everyone will want some time with you.

The wedding planner will be directing you.

There will be times when you are separated.

Be prepared for this.

In closing: Your wedding day is exactly thatYOUR wedding day. Manage the process, don’t get bullied, try to include everyone, accept all input graciously and realise that it’s way bigger than you ever imagined. Once you have done all the planning, let go and allow it to happen. Invariably there will be a hiccup or two. Sort them out and move on. Above all, be prepared for an incredibly complex get together and then ENJOY it together.

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aviator Amelia Earhart, starring none other than Hillary Swank, Richard Gere and Ewan McGregor.

A

fter running an article on Sprinbok Classic Air in the February issue, we decided to take them up on an offer to come and fly with them.

Being the avid aviation enthusiast that I am, this was an opportunity to be jumped at – its not every day you get to fly in a pristine classic 1959 Beech 18!

This is the last remaining flying example of this aircraft type in South Africa and this specific aeroplane was used in the filming of the 2009 box-office hit “Amelia” recalling the life and disappearance of well know female

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We arrived at the Dakota Lodge owned

by South African aviation legend Captain Flippie Vermeulen at Rand Airport on a misty Saturday morning. We were welcomed and then treated to a walk around in one of the oldest hangers at Rand Airport to view Flippie’s “toybox” of classic machines and history. These included two Dakota DC3’s (one a 1938 model) two Beech 18’s (one anxiously awaiting restoration) and many smaller Piper and Cessna Aircraft.

We were welcomed by Captain Flippie who ‘s enthusiasm was bubbling over as he gave us a brief and very interesting history of South African Airways, Rand Airport and the specific Beech 18 that we were about to take to the skies in. This mans wealth of knowledge could keep you listening the entire day!

Our Captain for the flight was Captain Brian Stapleford, another retired SAA captain who has dedicated a lifetime to Aviation. The mist had somewhat lifted as we boarded this classic beauty, which stood as proudly as she did the day that she came off the production line. Once the two Pratt and Whitney 450 Hp

motors are started you realize that you are sitting in a time capsule. It shakes and rattles and makes a noise – that’s what makes it fun!

One of our passengers was celebrating his 13th birthday and Captain Stapleford gave this young man the privilege of sitting up front in the right hand seat and being his co-pilot. I have no doubt that it was an experience that he will take with him forever!

The flight itself was way too short and unfortunately, the drab backdrop of Johannesburg could quite easily have been replaced by African Bushveld or a scenic coastal flight! All too soon the flaps and landing gear were lowered and we settled back onto the runway at Rand.

knowledge that we had the privilege of flying in this classic machine.

Without the enthusiasm and dedication of Captain Flippie Vermeulen and his competent team, we would no longer have these beauties gracing our skies!

A flight in a Beech 18 has always been on my bucket-list and thats one more memorable experience to be placed in the archives.

My wife on the other hand – well she is a nervous flyer but even that didn’t stop her from disembarking with a smile and the

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Cat Corner When the Siamese cat was first shown in England in 1871, these cats were described as “an unnatural nightmare kind of cat” due to their strange colouring – however, these “nightmare cats” went on to become one of the most popular cat breeds in the world.

“We are Siamese if you please. We are Siamese if you don’t please.” Those lines, sung by two haughty Siamese cats in Disney’s Lady and the Tramp express the Siamese personality perfectly. These cats are not only talkative but also very opinionated. They will gladly tell you exactly what they think, and they expect you to pay attention when they do.

Siamese cats are extremely fond of their people, but it is not really possible to own a Siamese cat, they are much too independent for that. Instead, you can consider yourself very lucky if a Siamese cat decides to own you. They like to be ‘helpful’ and will follow you around, supervising your every move. At night he will be in bed with you, probably under the covers with his head on the pillow.

The Siamese is highly intelligent, agile, and athletic and loves to play. It is important to keep his busy brain active with puzzle toys and his body exercised with teaser toys.

If you don’t, you can expect to find him empting the toilet roll or getting into similar mischief.

Here are a few things you probably didn’t know about these brilliant blue eyed cats.

present to celebrate her marriage to Prince Philip.

• Due to their intelligent nature, Siamese cats enjoy training. They can be trained to fetch and retrieve, to walk on a harness and even to do tricks.

• They are prone to acne around their chins. As they are eating, oily food flakes enter the skin pores just under the mouth. The pores get clogged, looking like blackheads and if not kept clean can lead to the cat developing a bald patch.

• Many Siamese cats are unable to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Milk should not be given to them as it can go straight through them and cause bad diarrhoea.

Choose a Siamese cat only if you look forward to spending time with and interacting with your cat. This loyal and loving feline will pout and pine if he doesn’t get enough attention, but in the right home, he will thrive for years.

• Their Thai name means ‘moon diamond’ • Queen Elizabeth II was given a seal point kitten as a wedding

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Environmental

WHY RECYCLE?

By: Pieter Kruger – The Waste Group

B

efore we start with why we need to recycle, let’s look at the definition of recycle.

RECYCLE: To collect, separate, process and marketing of products before seen as waste, so they can be used again.

o

Participating in recycling of 1 Ton of white paper/carton will save:  17 Trees  601kwh Energy

 1,753 ltrs oil There are many theories and definitions but the most important is to understand that when we do  27,217 kg CO2 potential pollution collect and separate, we only participate in the  26,498 ltrs water process of recycling. Every aspect of the process is important as it all contributes to the end purpose It is very important to understand that when we and results of recycle. do not participate in recycling programs or do any effort to recycle, we are even more bound Some fundamental facts of recycling: for disaster. Every second of the day we refuse or o Recycling helps reduce the waste that neglect to recycle, our earth is deteriorating and goes into landfills. Waste in landfills release our resources are slowly but surely running out of steam as well as we are running out of landfill dangerous gases; space. Apart from this, there are no more options o Recycling prevents pollution; than to start with the process. Whether it is at our homes, our work, schools, farms or whatever o Recycling saves and conserves energy by environment we find ourselves in, it will depend reducing the amount of new materials that on our individual effort and the responsibility we have to be manufactured; take in how well this beautiful earth of ours will be o Recycling conserves natural resources by preserved for the next generations to come. reducing the need for products from our Here are some of the challenges we are facing ? forests. Recycling newspapers, cardboard, and other types of paper reduces the need 1. Private recycling initiatives are expensive. For for more trees to be cut down to produce new example MRF’s (Material Recycling Facility) paper; are costly and capital intensive;

o

Recycling creates jobs in the industry;

o

The most commonly recycled products are carton, paper, plastic, glass, steel and aluminum; and

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2. Municipal and Private Landfill space is deteriorating; 3. Informal businesses for example the Trolley collectors and small buy back centres on street corners, are not sustainable;

4. Public lacking;

participation

is

5. Government support and interaction with the private sector is lacking; and 6. Lack of awareness.

training

and

There are 3 ways we need to start thinking when you recycle: 1. The decision on what to buy when we do our grocery or other forms of shopping in terms of what types of packing comes with the goods and is it recyclable or not. Rather buy for example

paper or carton based the waste leaving your home. packaging than polystyrene By participating in projects in or filmed packaging; your local community such as the Curbside Collections, which 2. To reduce our waste in our is a project initiated by THE homes, offices, shopping WASTE GROUP, you can already malls and other industries; start making a difference. As and the diagram shows, the only 3. To reuse material for example steps you need to take is to reuse paper for scrap paper have two separate household waste bins as to allow you to or school projects. split your waste as explained The easiest way to participate and shown. No sorting of the dry in the recycling process is from products is necessary, place the home. See the detailed diagram provided bag on your curb on herewith that explains what the dedicated collection day and happens when splitting your wet THE WASTE GROUP will collect waste from your dry waste at your the bag at a nominal fee. home and what will happen with

Conclusion:

aware of the benefits recycling offers, this dream could and will become a reality !

Many people would still see recycle as a huge hassle or as a waste of time when in fact it is very Our contact details to assist you in participating in simple and beneficial. Not only can we contribute our Curbside Collection Project is (012) 562 0330. in cutting the volumes of waste being disposed on landfills but also contribute to reduce the risk of eliminating our natural resources for future generations to come.

Imagine a world without pollution, a world filled with more greens and pure air, which will be the perfect world ? It might seem unrealistic, actually with the joint effort of people all around the globe, this could be a reality. It might also be a dream, but as people are becoming more and more

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Health

10 Ways to Keep your Heart Healthy 1.Think Red

3. Indulge in Heart-Healthy Luxuries

Strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, cranberries, pomegranates, tomatoes, red chili peppers, red wine, and red grapes: These vermilion fruits and veggies contain lycopene—a carotenoid that gives foods their bright color—and flavenoids, powerful antioxidants that help prevent cell damage. Both of these phytochemicals have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

What’s more decadent than dark chocolate and red wine? Research shows both can keep the cardiologist away by warding off cellular damage—and that doesn’t even consider how good they make you feel!

2.Be a Spice Girl Spices don’t just make your favorite meal sing, they’re good for you too. Research shows that coronary-artery disease is an inflammatory process. Many herbs and spices have antioxidant properties, which help suppress the inflammation process. Herbs and spices have been used in traditional medicine across the ages and around the world. Tumeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, basil, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and thyme are all loaded with antioxidants.

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4. Have a Cuppa ...tea, that is. Black tea is good for heart health.

Research shows that people who regularly drink black tea have a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Could there be a better excuse to have a sip in the afternoon?

5. Walk More (Even in the House) Banish “sitting disease” with simple lifestyle changes like walking around when you’re on the phone, taking frequent breaks at work, and hauling the treadmill out of the basement and strolling while you’re watching TV.

6. Dance, Dance, Dance Dance your way to good heart health, seriously!

It combines muscle strengthening, cardio exercise, and mental stimulation. The combination of exercise and stress relief is just what the doctor ordered.

associated with a 33 percent drop in participants’ odds of developing coronary artery calcification over five years. Researchers have found that getting less than 7.5 hours of shut-eye each night is associated with an increased risk for heart disease.

9. Don’t Worry, Be Happy

7. Love Those Pearly Whites Want to help your heart? Keep your mouth healthy! Studies suggest there may be a link between gum disease and cardiovascular disease—possibly even a more serious risk factor than high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, gender, and age.

Talk about a happy heart: Science is backing up the correlation between emotions and heart health. In a recent study, people who were happy and positive were less likely to develop heart disease over a 10-year period compared with those who were not so happy.

10. Connect with Girlfriends

8. Take a Hibernation Holiday Finally, a health-related excuse to sleep in: In a recent study, every extra hour of sleep was

Talking to an understanding friend is always good for the heart.

Johan Jordaan

Part 14

Of Sons, Servants and Slaves

W

e are almost halfway into the series and it might be a good place to refresh our understanding of grace: grace is God’s undeserved favour; it is only available if you do not try to deserve it – otherwise you would have reason to boast, but grace excludes pride.

Last month we looked at sonship and how to become a son and heir of God. I also mentioned that the flipside of sonship is a servant or a slave but I did not have space to explain what it means.

The reason why Paul uses this allegory is to show the difference between the Old and New Covenants. God’s children can be divided into sons and servants (or slaves). When you accept Jesus as Lord you become a child of God; you are saved (John 3:18, 11:25&26 and Rom 8:1). Jesus demonstrates the principle that not all God’s children are sons in the parable of the prodigal son. He describes the Father’s

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household – it consists of a father, two sons and many servants. This is a picture of God’s household: He is the father with a few sons and many servants. The sons are those under the New Covenant (Gal 4:4-5 & 4:2131); those who are free from the Law and who are not striving to impress the Father or attempt to deserve anything from Him. The servants are those who are under the Old Covenant (Gal 4:21-31). All are saved – they are part of the household. That’s an accurate picture of the world today: the Father has preciously few sons but many servants – those who are keen to work for Him. It is not what you do that makes you a son but what you believe.

But let us look at the difference between a son and a servant or slave. One would think that it is obvious; simply look at the difference between the position of a son and that of a servant in your own home.

The servant works for a salary. The servant has no permanent position in the house – he comes in, does his chores and leaves.

The servant is only as good as his last performance. If the father decides so, the servant is dismissed. Therefore the servant fears. Will he be good enough tomorrow?

Has he done enough? Now the slave is in the same boat. He is also not part of the household. He can be sold or punished. He also fears. If you fear, you are not a son.

BUT THE SON – he does not fear. Rom 8:15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery leading again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry, “Abba, Father.” (NET) The son knows that his Daddy loves him. He is a permanent member of the household. John 8:35 The slave does not remain in the family forever, but the son remains forever. (NET) You see the son has a completely different position than the servant; he does not have to do a thing to impress his Father. After Jesus’ baptism, as He exited the Jordan river, before He had done a single thing to please His Father, God said to Him: Matt 3:17b This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Webster) Our Daddy is pleased with us not because of what we do, but of who we are – His sons.

Therefore we do not fear; we are secure in His love (Rom 8:38-39). The son does not plead with His Daddy – he simply asks for something and he receives it. (John 15:16) But here’s the BIG DEAL: the son inherits. He is the heir. He does not work for a reward – he simply waits and receives everything! Is that glorious or what?

The position of a son is vastly superior to that of a servant – there is no comparison.

How many people have said to me that they wish they could go back to their life in their dad’s house? They had no worries; when they needed anything their dad provided.

The dad did all the worrying. He took the knocks; we enjoyed life at his expense. The good news is that we can go back to that life – under the New Covenant. Our Daddy takes all our cares upon Him. He provides, He protects, and in His wisdom, He does what is necessary for us. We are adopted as sons into His household. As sons, we reign with Him. I suspect that servants will remain

servants in the afterlife but sons will reign.

Sons inherit the Kingdom – literally inherit it.

Luke 12:32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father is well pleased to give you the kingdom.” (NET) If He is willing to give us as sons (the little flock) His Kingdom, why would He hold back anything else? (He even gave us His son – Rom 8:32) The only reason that I can think of is that it might spoil us. We might not be able to handle what He wants to give us.

Then lastly, sons have a superior relationship with their father. When have you ever heard your dad say to a servant: “Sweet dreams, and remember that I will always love you”?

No the conversation is more like this: “Today I want you to leave the lawn and concentrate on the trees. We need to trim them. When you are done come and tell me because there are some other things that must also be done before you can leave”. You see, the relationship is work-based and I’m sad to say, that is exactly where the great majority of God’s children find themselves today. But God wants a close and intimate relationship with us – as sons.

If you want to become a son, pray this with me: Daddy I confess that I saw you more as a slave driver than a loving Dad. I now lay off the flawed Old Covenant with its Law system and ask that you adopt me as a son. Help me on this way because I will fail and sometimes still think of things to do to please you.

Next month we look more closely at our identity and what it means in the Kingdom.

Write to me, engage me and I will try to answer any questions that you might have.

Email: featzmags@gmail.com / Subject: Grace

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fascinating people Wilbur Wright 16 April 1867 – 30 May 1912 “In memory and intellect, there was none like him. He systemised everything. His wit was quick and keen. He could say or write anything he wanted to. He was not very talkative. His temper could hardly be stirred. He wrote much. He could deliver a fine speech, but was modest” Those words were written by Bishop Milton Wright about his son, Wilbur.

Wilbur Wright, along with his brother Orville, launched into both history books and legend with the first ever manned powered flight. This feat was accomplished through a lifetime’s work and commitment.

The historic flight was the fruit of their unending devotion to the pursuit of their goals. Although this was his most notable accomplishment, Wilbur led a life full of many achievements and triumphs over adversity.

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P

aintwise have been a leading stockist and distributor of Prominent Paints since 1992.

Our company structure is based on an owner managed model, with three branches based in Pretoria. Solidly backed by the international brand Prominent Paints and the international group PPG, we are able to offer you global expertise, delivered locally. Â At Paintwise Moreleta, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and offer our clients Free Quotations, Free Specification, Free Deliveries, Free colour advise and tinting, Free on-site technical application and specification advise as well as decorating, painting Contracting and Road marking services all in an Honest and Professional manner. While being based in Pretoria, these services are available to clients throughout Gauteng.

We supply top quality product at Factory Prices, which are guaranteed to be of exceptional standards. Our wide range of products, from Wood Care to Household and Industrial Coatings ensure customer satisfaction in all areas. Our client base includes professional painting contractors, DIY customers, the hotel and

hospitality industry, industrial, mining and engineering industry, agricultural users and the corporate market.

Our competitive priced paint contracting services cater for individuals, offices and factories, complexes, shopping malls and government contract work. Whether residential, commercial, industrial structures, or government contract work, we have the experience. We apply the latest air and airless spray techniques even as far as the latest roller and pump fed method. We complete our range of services with professional waterproofing and sealing of both tile and metal roofing structures. From one story structures to high rise buildings, if you need an expert paint contractor, contact Paintwise.

Paintwise is one of the leading waterproofing and damp proofing companies in South Africa.

We provide workmanship guarantees to all our clients and we are proud of our expert problem solving skills. No job is too big or too small for our professional team.

Visit us, or call us and enjoy our fantastic products and services for yourself.

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Kids Page

Born leader.

The story of how a most unusual new baby’s arrival impacts a family, told from the point of view of a delightfully unreliable narrator—wildly imaginative 7-year-old Tim. With a sly, heart-filled message about the importance of family, this is an authentic and broadly appealing original comedy for all ages.

NuMetro Release date: 07 April 2017 Watch the movie trailer and I am sure you will be as excited as my 12 year old to see this movie. The trailer promises an exciting, hilariously funny movie that the whole family will enjoy, we will be in line to get our movie tickets on the 7th.

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Movie Trailer

Nothing is more rewarding than watching a child learning new skills, keeping fit and loving every minute of it! That’s why more and more parents are bringing their children along to our training sessions.

APPROVED SOCCER TRAINING FOR KIDS FROM 18 MONTHS TO 7 YEARS

Call 072 222 4147

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Substitute

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centurion.hatfield@littlekickers.co.za

Remember to visit the Featz website, this month we have a 10 page Easter Activity Pack for the kids to enjoy. You can download the pdf free of charge and print as many copies as you’d like.

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Mom’s remember to click the win button on the website to stand a chance to win some great books for the kids from Bargain Books

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Teen Stuff

Compiled by Tristan Behr

Release Date: April 7th, 2017 Plot Summary Frustrated by the hypocrisy they see in their parents, teachers, and the members of the school board, an unlikely trio set out to find a common truth and make their voices heard as they revive a defunct school club and take on the world.

Cast: Sarah Steele, Liam James, Austin P. McKenzie, Kal Penn, Janeane Garofalo, Wendi McLendonCovey, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Roger Bart Director: Dan Harris Genres: Comedy Movie Trailer The New Album from The Maine is due to be released on April the 7th......

The Maine have shared another track from their upcoming album ‘Lovely Little Lonely’ and it’s sounding sun-drenched and nostalgic. Titled ‘Black Butterflies & Déjà Vu’ the track encapsulates what the band do best, with pretty melodies and soulful vocals to convey a particular moment in time for their fans to share in.

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trying to Tell you all the right words Waiting on the right words Just another lovesick afternoon Black butterflies and déjà vu Hoping for the right words Waiting for the right words

Black Butterflies And Déjà Vu What would you say if you could say Everything you needed to To the one, you needed to?

You flash like a setting sun You come around, I come undone Can’t find the sound under my tongue When I look at you I lose my voice when I look at you Can’t make a noise though I’m trying to Tell you all the right words Waiting on the right words Just another lovesick afternoon Black butterflies and déjà vu Hoping for the right words Waiting for the right words Just yesterday north of LA I couldn’t help but think of you Every time I think of you You crash like a rolling wave You come around I lose my brain Can’t find the sound under my tongue When I look at you I lose my voice when I look at you Can’t make a noise though I’m

I’ve been searching for the right words But I can’t even find an echo Don’t you let go There are only twenty Six letters I can use Just to tell you I won’t let go Don’t you let go I lose my voice when I look at you Can’t make a noise though I’m trying to Tell you all the right words Waiting on the right words Just another lovesick afternoon Black butterflies and déjà vu Hoping for the right words Waiting for the right words I lose my voice when I look at you Can’t make a noise though I’m trying to Tell you all the right words Waiting on the right words Just another lovesick afternoon Black butterflies and déjà vu Hoping for the right words Waiting for the right words

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For a printable copy or the solution, visit the Featz website www.featzpublishing.com www.featzpublishing.com

CLICK HERE

Book Reviews

by Bianca Adendorff

A Girl Called Owl by Amy Wilson. It’s bad enough having a mum dippy enough to name you Owl, but when you’ve got a dad you’ve never met, a best friend who needs you more than ever, and a new boy at school giving you weird looks, there’s not a lot of room for much else. So, when Owl starts seeing strange frost patterns on her skin, she’s tempted to just burrow down under the duvet and forget all about it. Could her strange new powers be linked to her mysterious father? And what will happen when she enters the magical world of winter for the first time? A glittering story of frost and friendship, with writing full of magic and heart, A Girl Called Owl is a stunning debut about family, responsibility and the beauty of the natural world.

One Amazing Elephant by Linda Oatman High. In this heartwarming novel, a girl and an elephant face the same devastating loss—and slowly realize that they share the same powerful love. Twelve-year-old Lily Pruitt loves her grandparents, but she doesn’t love the circus—and the circus is their life. She’s perfectly happy to stay with her father, away from her neglectful mother and her grandfather’s beloved elephant, Queenie Grace. Then Grandpa Bill dies, and both Lily and Queenie Grace are devastated. When Lily travels to Florida for the funeral, she keeps her distance from the elephant. But the two are mourning the same man—and form a bond born of loss. And when Queenie Grace faces danger, Lily must come up with a plan to help save her friend.

The Perfect Guest by Paula Metcalf. Walter is really a very neat and tidy dog. His house is his pride and joy and he gets quite nervous when guests come round... When his best friend Pansy asks to stay, though, Walter is so excited! She’s just a teeny-weeny squirrel after all, how much trouble can she possibly be?! But when Pansy tries her very best to be helpful things just seem to keep going wrong! Nothing - from Walter’s trousers to his curtains to his beloved brand-new teapot - is safe from accident-prone Pansy! Is she turning out to be the worst guest there ever was?

Book Reviews

The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne.

Another deeply affecting novel from an author who never fails to really grasp the power of the human spirit and the struggles of the heart. Cyril Avery is not a real Avery or at least that’s what his adoptive parents tell him. And he never will be.

But if he isn’t a real Avery, then who is he? Born out of wedlock to a teenage girl cast out from her rural Irish community and adopted by a well-to-do if eccentric Dublin couple via the intervention of a hunchbacked Redemptorist nun, Cyril is adrift in the world, anchored only tenuously by his heartfelt friendship with the infinitely more glamourous and dangerous Julian Woodbead. At the mercy of fortune and coincidence, he will spend a lifetime coming to know himself and where he came from – and over his three score years and ten, will struggle to discover an identity, a home, a country and much more. In this, Boyne’s most transcendent work to date, we are shown the story of Ireland from the 1940s to today through the eyes of one ordinary man.

by Bianca Adendorff

The Park by Gail Schimmel. Good mothers take their children to the park. Rebecca doesn’t expect to make new friends at this stage of her life. But when she becomes mother to little Amy, she finds herself spending her afternoons in the park. There she meets other mothers: first flamboyant, fun Rose, and then single-mom Lilith, whose inner strength is tangible, and whose eyes never leave her toddler. Very soon the women have formed a trio – the type of friends who feel at home in each other’s kitchens – and their daughters begin to behave like sisters. But Rebecca is about to learn that friendship is not always what it seems, and that sometimes you trust the wrong people. At exactly the moment when she needs to lean on them, one of her new friends harbours a shocking secret, and the other will turn on her in a way she could never have anticipated.

WIN WIN WIN! For your chance to win Books and Vouchers from Bargain Books visit our website www.featzpublishing.com

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ries women are typically headstrong and impulsive - rushing in where angels fear to tread. They are essentially self-expressive and assertive with qualities of enterprise and spontaneity. Aries women want everything done yesterday and their attitude is usually ‘me first’ rather than being naturally individualistic. Arians value their freedom, they are frank and direct to the point of being tactless.

Here are some of the remarkable women celebrating their birthdays this month.

Famous Birthdays in April 2nd April Lydia Susanna Hunter (born April 2, 1945), better known by her stage name Linda Hunt, is an American film, stage, and television actress known for her role as Henrietta Lange in the CBS series NCIS: Los Angeles.

3rd April Doris Day (born Doris Mary Ann Kappelhoff; April 3, 1922 or 1924) is a retired American actress and singer, and continuing animal welfare activist. Day began her career as a big band singer in 1939. Her popularity began to rise after her first hit recording “Sentimental Journey”, in 1945.

5 April th

Ruth Elizabeth “Bette” Davis (April 5, 1908 – October 6, 1989) was an American actress of film, television, and theater. Regarded as one of the greatest actress-

es in Hollywood history, she was noted for her willingness to play unsympathetic, sardonic characters and was reputed for her performances in a range of film genres, from contemporary crime melodramas to historical and period films and occasional comedies, although her greatest successes were her roles in romantic dramas.

9th April Kristen Jaymes Stewart (born April 9, 1990) is an American actress and model. Born in Los Angeles to parents working in show business, Stewart began her acting career in 1997 with uncredited roles and a minor character appearance in several films before gaining prominence in 2002 for playing Jodie Foster’s daughter in the thriller Panic Room. She received widespread recognition in 2008 when she landed the role of protagonist Bella Swan in The Twilight Saga film series (2008–12), which grossed over $3.3 billion worldwide.

15th April Emma Charlotte Duerre Watson (born 15 April 1990) is a British actress, mod-

el, and activist. Born in Paris and brought up in Oxfordshire, Watson attended the Dragon School and trained as an actress at the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts. She rose to prominence after landing her first professional acting role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, having acted only in school plays previously.

Emma Thompson (born 15 April 1959) is a British actress, activist, author, comedienne and screenwriter. Born in London, Thompson was educated at Newnham College, University of Cambridge, where she became a member of the Footlights troupe. After appearing in several comedy programmes, she first came to prominence in 1987 in two BBC TV series, Tutti Frutti and Fortunes of War. Her first film role was in the 1989 romantic comedy The Tall Guy.

17th April Victoria Caroline Beckham, OBE (née Adams; born 17 April 1974) is an English businesswoman, fashion designer, model, and singer. In the late 1990s, Beckham rose to fame with

the all-female pop group Spice Girls, and was dubbed Posh Spice.

21st April

Jennifer Anne Garner (born April 17, 1972) is an American actress and film producer.

Her breakthrough film debut was in the comedy Dude, Where’s My Car (2000). Following a supporting role in Pearl Harbor, Garner gained recognition for her performance as CIA officer Sydney Bristow in the ABC spy-action thriller Alias, which aired from 2001 to 2006. For her work on the series, she won a Golden Globe Award and a SAG Award and received four Emmy Award nominations.

Elizabeth II (Elizabeth Alexandra Mary; born 21 April 1926]) has been Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand since 6 February 1952. She is Head of the Commonwealth and Queen of 12 countries that have become independent since her accession: Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.

19th April

24th April

Kate Garry Hudson (born April 19, 1979) is an American actress. She rose to prominence in 2000 for playing Penny Lane in Almost Famous, for which she won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Hudson also co-founded Fabletics, a fitness brand and membership program operated by JustFab.

Barbara Joan “Barbra” Streisand ( born April 24, 1942) is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and filmmaker. In a career spanning six decades, she has become an icon in multiple fields of entertainment, which earned her recognition as Mother of All Contemporary Pop Divas or Queen of The Divas. She is among a small group of entertainers who have been honoured with an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award, and is one of only two artists who have also won a Peabody.

Ashley Judd (born Ashley Tyler Ciminella; April 19, 1968) is an American actress and political activist. She grew up in a family of successful performing artists as the daughter of country music singer Naomi Judd and the sister of Wynonna Judd. While she is best known for an on-going acting career spanning more than two decades, she has increasingly become involved in global humanitarian efforts and political activism.

25th April Renée Kathleen Zellweger (born April 25, 1969) is an American actress and producer. She has received critical acclaim and many accolades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and three Screen Actors Guild Awards. She was named Hasty Pudding’s Woman of the Year in 2009, and established herself as one of the highest-paid

Hollywood actresses in 2007.

28th April Jessica Marie Alba (born April 28, 1981) is an American actress, model and businesswoman. She has won various awards for her acting, including the Choice Actress Teen Choice Award and Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television, and a Golden Globe nomination for her lead role in the television series Dark Angel.

Penélope Cruz Sánchez (born 28 April 1974) is a Spanish actress and model. Signed by an agent at age 15, she made her acting debut at 16 on television and her feature film debut the following year in Jamón, jamón (1992) to critical acclaim. Her subsequent roles in the 1990s and 2000s included Open Your Eyes (1997), The Hi-Lo Country (1999), The Girl of Your Dreams (2000) and Woman on Top (2000). Cruz achieved recognition for her lead roles in the 2001 films Vanilla Sky, All the Pretty Horses, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and Blow.

29th April Michelle Marie Pfeiffer (born April 29, 1958) is an American actress, singer and producer. She began her acting career in 1978 and had her first starring film role in Grease 2 (1982), before receiving mainstream attention for her breakout performance in Scarface (1983).

Her greatest commercial successes include Batman Returns (1992), Dangerous Minds (1995), What Lies Beneath (2000) and Hairspray.

April 2017 Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday 1

World Autism Awareness Day

April Fool's Day

3

4

5

1st Icecream Sunday Made in 1892

10

11

12

6

Jav van Riebeeck docked in the Cape 1652 North Pole Discovered 1898

7

8

9

14

15

16

World Health Day

13

Leonardo Da Vinci born 1452

GOOD FRIDAY

17 FAMILY DAY

24

18

19

20

21

Back to School

22 Earth Day established 1970

25 World Maleria Day

26

27 FREEDOM DAY

2

28

Happy 18th Birthday Richard

Happy Easter from the Featz Team

29

EASTER SUNDAY

23 William Shakespear born 1564

30

Happy Easter Please Help Us! Any food welcome You can SMS the word “NOSE” to 40131 to donate R20

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