Volume 7, Issue 9, September 2012
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TragicNazeer-Ahmed accident claims young life Ballim - 26/11/1986 - 25/08/2012 O
ur community was once again shaken and saddened at the loss of another talented and upcoming young man.
On the 25th August 2012, Nazeer-Ahmed Ballim, 25, who was travelling on his motorcycle on the M1 North freeway between the St. Andrews and Oxford Street ramps in Johannesburg, tragically lost his life in an accident. Family and friends are grappling with his sudden passing. Nazeer-Ahmed, or Naz as he was affec)onately known, was an endearing young man with an effervescent character and never without a smile. He was devoted to his family and du)ful in his work. A passionate racer, his rela)onships embraced young and old as well as across ethnic lines. Many have readily suggested that his zest for life and people, alongside an unpreten)ous personality, made him a rare find. They will miss him bi.erly. Nazeer-Ahmed shared a close rela)onship with his parents, Cassim and Amiena, and siblings. His immediate younger brother, Arshad, explained how they regarded each other as best friends and their unflinching trust meant that they knew everything about one another and shared many las)ng experiences. Arshad believes his eldest brother understood what it meant that we are made of na)ons and tribes so that we may know one another; "he a had warmth for people", says Arshad. His youngest brothers, Ziyaad and
Muhammed-Yaaseen viewed him as a role-model and best friend too. "Nazeer-Ahmed was a cherished by his family and community. He had countless friends and will be sorely missed. The a.endance and outpouring of grief at his funeral was telling," said Hassen Mahomed Doola, his uncle.
The Fordsburg Community Newspaper, its management and staff hereby offers our sincere condolences to the Ballim family at this trying and difficult )me. May Allah (SWT) grant Nazeer Jannatul Firdous and may Allah make it easy for his
parents, siblings and friends to come to terms with his passing. May he be remembered for his pleasant nature and everlas)ng smile.
"To Allah do we belong and unto him is our return."
In a le.er that was sent out to his colleagues by Jacques Claassen, Head of Online & Customer Management Systems at Vodacom said, "It is with deep sadness that I have to inform you this morning of the passing of Nazeer Ballim over the weekend. Naz has added immense value during his period at Vodacom and has become a friend to many of us. What always struck me most about Naz was that he was always smiling, always in a good mood, and no problem that came past him was too big. Naz had an extremely bright future ahead of him and I can honestly say that with every interac)on I had with him I learnt something new - something that I know the whole division can tes)fy to. He was always eager to learn and his dedica)on to his work was an example to us all. But the thing that always struck me the most was that it always seemed like he knew how to truly live; which is the way I am sure he would like us to remember him. Our hearts go out to his family and colleagues in this difficult )me."
This abandoned VW Polo was found with its engine still running as perpetrators escaped on foot when approached by local security company, TAU Protection Services on Hanover Street in Mayfair, across the Crown Mines Post Office. Two firearms, live ammunition, fake number and license disc were recovered from this stolen vehicle. Another possible major crime averted by TAU protection Services. Police are investigating the matter further.
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MCB and Gift of the Givers unite to bring Iftaar to the underprivileged T
he Migrant Community Board and Union of Arab Communities of South Africa organised in partnership with Gift of The Givers Foundation an Iftaar (breaking of the fast) in favour of the disadvantaged people from South Africa and refugee foreigners from Africa. The event was held on the 15th August at the Fordsburg Square and saw about 250 people benefiting from this show of compassion and support. The event brought together members of the Arab Community, Migrant Community Board and South African communities, most from Soweto, who shared a plate of food together and for the first time interacted with each other understanding and promoting social cohesion and exploring cultural diversity. The atmosphere was that of mutual respect and vibrancy as various groups engaged with each other in various discussions relating to communication, cultural differences, togetherness and Africanism. “This is a great initiative and we would like to see it happening next year in our townships especially Soweto,” said Mr. Dlamini a resident of Soweto who was invited to the function. The event took more than 2 hours to conclude as all who attended were happy and excited to be part of this great gesture of good faith and goodwill. Kalid Abu Rukaya, a Saudi citizen said, “This is the first time that I have seen this happening where I have seen Muslim and Non-Muslim sharing in iftaar together from the privileged to the under-privileged across black, white and foreigners sharing from one plate. It was a great initiative and must be repeated in Ramadaan next year. Insha-Allah.” “Mr Allahudeen Sayed of Gift of The Givers, was delighted and appreciated at the outcome of the event and hoped to see it happening next year,” said Mr. Abdeslam Habiballah Ahmed, Chairman of the Migrant Community Board. He added that the event did not involve much effort from those involved however the result was overwhelming and successful. “I would like to thank, The Gift of the Givers Foundation and memebrs of the Migrant Community Board for their contribution and dedication to making this event a success,” concluded Habiballah.
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Locked Out to Lock In? I
The Berry Shop opens in Fordsburg aving a mobile phone is not just about H texting, making and receiving calls or browsing the internet it has become a lifestyle. As cellphone technology advances in leaps and bounds ordinary phones are being replaced with smarter, faster and more powerful devices making way for smart businesses that are dedicated to the sales and servicing of these smart devices for the convenience of their customers. The Berry Shop in Fordsburg is one such store and has opened its doors to the techno savvy and stylish users of smart phones like Blackberry, Apple iPhone, Samsung and others. The store boasts a full range of Blackberry, iPhone and Samsung smart phones and tablets including all accessories and other little goodies to personalise your experience.
“It began with a simple idea!” Altaaf Akoo, Managing Director of the The Berry Shop, realised the need to provide smartphones at a reasonable prices to all. As more people switch to smart phones and even more want to follow, the pricing and back up of these devices are key. The focus of the store is thus to provide the latest smartphones and tablets with full backup and service, a huge range of accessories and the berry on top are the best prices in town. With a fully equipped
repair center boasting the most highly trained technicians in the country you can rest assured that your device is in good hands. From software upgrades to any type of repair they provide a 24hr service for your convenience. Ok, so if you’re thinking of changing that old device or maybe you just need a second, pop in to The Berry Shop situated at No. 59 Mint Road, Fordsburg (Next to Wimpy). It’s a one of a kind store with “berry” good deals. Franchise opportunities also available. Call: 082 786 7967
f in cricket South Africa's premier batsman Hashim Amla is renowned for brilliant strokes, how does one describe the genius of journalist Zahid Asmal during the bail application in the Fayaz Kazi murder case that landed me in the witness box? Given the vast difference between lush green cricket turfs and the sombre, dark and uninviting courts with rock hard benches where contests of another type play out, it may seem far-fetched to compare Amla's batting skills with Asmal's spontaneous brilliance! Terrain aside, it remains true that cricket is governed by a host of stringent laws while the criminal justice system regards it unsporting not to hear the other side. And this is where Asmal bowled his perfectly timed googly to land me in the box! The setting was Krugersdorp court with Magistrate Reginald Dama presiding. The cast was made up of the Public Prosecutor, the Investigative Officer, the two accused, defence attorneys, a huge media contingent, members of the victims family, an enraged public and heavy police presence. It was the second occasion within a fortnight during which Rudolf Viviers and Zain vanTonder, accused for the merciless slaying of young Fayaz Kazi and the brutal assault of his close friend Ansar Mehmood at a food outlet in Magaliesburg, appeared to face charges and plead for bail. During their initial appearance, tensions reached breaking point when police, acting without a court order barred media, family and the public from the courtroom. Emotions, already ignited countrywide by allegations of a vicious Islamophobic assault leading to the tragic death of Kazi, peaked when it was discovered that the accused were secretly spirited away after a brief appearance behind close doors. Fury and rage marked the day and despite assurances by a police spokesperson as well as an official from the National Prosecuting Authority, it did little to quell a strong sense of suspicion that something was amiss. What followed a few days later was an identity parade held in Kagiso's brand new police building. The good news was that all seven witnesses had positively identified the culprits clearing the way for the formal bail application. A week later we were back in court and unsurprisingly, the public gallery was yet again overflowing. Accused No 2 Van Tonder, faced a minor charge of common assault and his bail application was not opposed by the state. Viviers, the main accused, faced charges of
Iqbal Jassat Media Review Network murder and grievous bodily harm (GBH). His application was thus opposed on the grounds of the severity of his crime. Magistrate Dama however appeared to be unconvinced by the prosecutor's arguments and called on the Investigative Officer to expand on his written affidavit. As Dama probed him, it became clear that the Afrikaans speaking officer was either uncomfortable having to answer in English or just out of depth. His failure to explain key areas of concern raised by Dama regarding allegations of mockery and whether Osama Bin Laden was "Indian" or Pakistani was not encouraging at all. At this point Asmal decided to jump into the deep-end!
It was a masterstroke! He slipped a hurriedly scribbled note to the prosecutor offering to bail her out of her predicament. After conferring with Dama, Asmal was called to testify but as soon as he stepped into the box was recognised by the magistrate as the person who had earlier made representation to him on behalf of the media for live coverage. He was thus unable to take the stand, As this drama played out it left me with no choice but to fill the void Asmal's unprecedented move had created: testify on behalf of Media Review Network by providing "context and substance". The rest is history. In Dama's judgement delivered the following day, he pointedly acknowledged and underlined the significance of my testimony which he described as "eye-opening to the court". My submission centred on the concept of Islamophobia and sought to explain the reasons for outrage amongst Muslims. Demonisation experienced by followers of Islam in the aftermath of America's illegitimate "war on terror" has had devastating consequences. And the strategic dehumanising of Muslims engaged or supportive of resistance against American imperialism, was explained by me to illustrate how and why Osama bin Laden had been hunted down as the "embodiment of evil". Dama pronounced: Bail of main accused
denied! Viviers remains behind bars and will appear on November 29th to face the murder trial.
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MQM Helping the Needy . . .
T
he Holy Prophet, Mohammed (PBUH) said, "The greatest prayer of all is to serve humanity". From this saying we come to understand and realise that the aiding of poverty stricken and needy people in our society is in itself a form of prayer. To this extent the South African branch of the Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM), has taken it upon themselves through their very own aid organisation, Khidmat-e-Khalq Committee (KKC) to assist the needy in our community by conducting a food parcel distribution at the Fordsburg Square on the on 16th August 2012. According to the MQM, the well to do should assist the needy in their individual capacities however; political, religious and social organisations should also perform their due share in the service to humanity. Any political movement, which renders this service to humanity, is thus performing a prayer itself. The MQM is the only organisation which has proven that even without power it has managed to achieve and set considerable examples.
“This is only possible when one is honest and sincere and works with a commitment to the cause.” MQM's example of such commitment is a torchbearer for others to follow as the organisations ideological and philosophical approach encompasses the concept of service to humanity without any prejudice or discrimination. This welfare services provided by KKF for the last 19 years to poor and destitute widows, orphans, disposed and helpless people was inspired by the leadership of Mr Altaf Hussain, its founder and leader. Hussain and his colleagues have served the destitute and the needy long before the MQM came into existence. The All Pakistan Mohajir Students Organisation (APMSO) gave birth to the Mohajir Quami Movement (MQM) on 18th March 1984, whereas the APMSO itself was formed on 11th June 1978. Through their intense commitment to serve the poor students and destitute people, Hussain and his colleagues formed the KKC (Khidmat-e-Khalq Committee) in 1988. (The KKC was transformed into KKF, i.e.- Khidmat-e-Khalq Foundation in January 1998). Hussain and his associates contributed all their pocket money and whatever remuneration they received from giving tuition, to the KKC fund. From this money and the donations received from students, other less fortunate students were helped. Course books and cash for admission and examination fees were then distributed to the poorer students. In this year’s distribution 1000 people received grocery packets and more than 500 persons received food packets. Carpets and Clothes were also distributed to needy families. The manner in which MQM's Khidmat-e-Khalq Foundation has aided the poor, deprived and the deserving irrespective of their colour, cast, creed and religion has made KKF a symbol as their only friend and given these helpless people hope. Mr A. Rashid the joint organiser of MQM South Africa has said that such aid programs will be held nationally soon. “I offer my thanks and gratitude to all those people who have supported our Khidmat-e-Khalq Foundation and made this project possible. I would also like to extend a big thank you to the Fordsburg Square management, SAPS, Metro Police, CPF members and all the Fordsburg Square shop owners for their efforts,” he concluded. To donate or enquire about the KKF please E-mail: mqmsouthafrica@hotmail.com, kkfsa@hotmail.com or find them on Facebook: mqmrsa
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Wits University's student council unanimously adopts BOYCOTT of Israel... T
his week, after being approached by the Wits Palestine Solidarity Committee, the University of the Wit w at er s rand ( WITS) Student Representative Council (SRC) unanimously adopted a full academic and cultural boycott of Israel.
The SRC resolution states: "Throughout the world students joined people of conscience in opposing the [Apartheid] regime which systematically perpetrated racial injustice in South Africa. Because of our history...we must unite and stand in solidarity with those who face similar oppression... The Wits Student Representative Council stands firm in its support of Palestinians and the Palestinian Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions [against Israel] movement...[the SRC] will not participate in any form of cultural or academic collaboration or joint projects with Israeli institutions and will not provide any support to Israeli cultural or academic institutions” The Wits SRC resolution also calls for an immediate investigation into any relationships that Wits University may have with any Israeli institutions including academic, financial and cultural relations. In 2005 Palestinians issued a call for boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) against Israel until it abides by international law and basic human rights (www.bdsmovement.net/ bdsintro). Others to have heeded the BDS call include student councils and similar formations at Carleton University (Canada), Dundee University (Scotland), University of Massachusetts (USA), the National Union of Students (UK), University of Regina (Canada) and The Ever Green State College (USA). Furthermore, our own University of Johannesburg became the world's first university to impose an academic boycott on Israel when it terminated its institutional relationship in 2011 with Israel's Ben-Gurion University. In the 1980s, during Apartheid, there was a strong and vibrant international student movement in solidarity with the people of South Africa; today, over 20 years later, there is a growing and vibrant international student movement in solidarity with Palestinians (and progressive Israelis) who are resisting Israeli Apartheid.
Then, here is some other major boycott of Israel news: United Church of Canada [boycott victory]: The General Council of Canada's largest Protestant denomination consisting of over 3 million members, the United Church of Canada, voted earlier this month (21 August) for a boycott of all Israeli settlement products. Presbyterian and Methodist churches in the United States have also taken similar positions. SA government approves "Israeli settlement products" notice: On Wednesday, the 22nd of August 2012, South Africa's Cabinet approved legislation preventing the false-labeling of Israeli goods. The Business Day newspaper reports that South Africa's "move could hamper Israeli companies [such as Ahava and Sodastream] wanting to do business in South
Africa and affect large local retailers that stock merchandise from Israel." South Africans can now insist that falsely-labeled Israeli products are immediately removed from our shelves. One such product that communities are beginning to mobilise around is SodaStream: www.bdssouthafrica.com/2009/06/ consumer-boycott.html Veolia [Divestment Victory]: Last week Thursday (23 August), the French multinational corporation, Veolia, lost an £800 million contract in the UK (that's over 10 billion Rands!). Due to the company's involvement with the Israeli government, in violation of human rights and international law, activists from across the globe have been campaigning for Veolia's exclusion from tenders and other municipal contracts. This is the tenth contract that Veolia has lost in the UK alone. The total value of these lost contracts is some £2.5 billion - that's over 32 billion Rands! Israel's Batsheva Dance Company [Cultural Boycott]: In violation of the Palestinian boycott -of-Israel-picket-line, the Edinburgh International Festival invited the Israeli dance company, Batsheva, to partake in this year’s arts festival. BBC News reports that Thursday night's scheduled performance (30 August) by Israel's Batsheva was interrupted by activists and pro-Palestinian protesters at least three times. Last night, Friday 31 August, the show was disrupted over five times. Several people have subsequently cancelled their tickets, seating has been significantly reduced and the remaining Batsheva show is now in question. The protests against Batsheva remind us of the sports boycott protests of the 1980s against Apartheid South Africa's rugby and cricket teams that attempted world tours in violation of the ANC's boycott. Finally, Wits University students are going to come under immense pressure from the Israeli lobby (consisting of the SA Jewish Board of Deputies, SA Zionist Federation and others) for their principled boycott of Israel resolution. You can assist by emailing a short note of support to the Wits SRC on:
administrator@bdssouthafrica.com
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Shakiera Tayob editor@theindependent.co.za
Dear Editor, Tony Blair, the War Criminal A South African news agency carried an article today (30 Aug. 2012) titled: “Blair confronts Tutu, SA Muslims” in which Tony Blair has challenged SA Muslims protesting against his visit to this country to rather protest against the Muslims whom he says are doing most of the killing in Iraq and elsewhere. The question that begs to be asked is how did Iraq become so destabilized that Iraqis are killing each other? Was it not the US and UK armies under the blatantly false pretext of weapons of mass destruction that invaded and destroyed their former crony Sadam Hussain’s country when he had outlived his usefulness? Who was it that destabilized Iraq and left behind a ruined country without proper leadership or governance? It is always the portfolio of the cowardly to shirk responsibility for their actions and shift the blame on others. One wonders whether it is the lack or the complete absence of humanity that allows war criminals to contentedly continue with their lives, after leaving millions of lives shattered in their wake. Mr. Desmond Tutu has to be commended on his moral stance for refusing to share a platform with Blair. Tutu pulled out of the Discovery Invest leadership conference saying Blair’s call to support the US invasion of Iraq “on the basis of unproven allegations of the existence of weapons of mass destruction was morally indefensible”. The presence and the immunity that Tony Blair enjoys on South African soil is an affront to justice, equity and morality. In the world that we live in, it seems only the conquered are trialled and sentenced. However, there is another court, the court of Allah, that awaits the oppressors and in that court no political manoeuvring will be of any avail, Insha’Allah. We request the Muslim community to make dua for the suffering Ummah around the globe.
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians
An Insightful response to: Tony Blair, the War Criminal In response to Tony Blair, the War Criminal, Sh. Yawar Baig responded with a very insightful email:
Blair is a sign of Allah to show what happens to those who are arrogant. The final ending of an Empire which boasted that sun never sets in it, is Tony Blair; otherwise known as the Poodle of Mr Bush. To be a Poodle is one thing. To be the Poodle of Mr Bush is the crowning glory of the disgrace that Allah heaped on the heads of those who thought the world belonged to them. There's no need to argue with Blair. In the dock is Blair. Not Desmond Tutu or the Muslims. The questions that he has to answer are: 1.Why did you lie to the British public and the global community about WMD's? 2.Why did you support the illegal invasion of Iraq? 3.Why did you condemn British soldiers to die in a foreign land fighting an imaginary enemy? 4.Why did you support untold atrocities committed on the civilian population of Iraq using British tax payers’ money and then allowed the looting of Iraqi treasures, art, and oil? 5.Why did you and your allies allow the use of depleted uranium in bombs used in Iraq which have poisoned the lives of generations unborn? 6.Where is all the art and treasure that you and your brave soldiers looted? 7.How do you plan to compensate the families whose lives you destroyed, whose children you murdered, whose women you violated, after first invading their sovereign land? Blair and his stupid supporters must be reminded that it is the Bush-Blair combine which invaded Iraq based on their self-concocted lies. Iraq didn't invade the UK or USA. That's a matter of fact. Not opinion. Let him answer these questions first. Secondly those who invited this war criminal must answer to their constituents about their insane action. Truly the reputation of South African prestige as a nation which always stood for justice is at stake. Archbishop Desmond Tutu's statement is a clear clarion call to all those who have any sense of justice...leadership and morality are indivisible. These people arranging this conference don't seem to understand this basic principle. In which case they should invite the drug lords from South America to share the platform with Blair. That's more appropriate than asking Archbishop Tutu to do so.
Was salaam Yawar Baig
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Crosby Montessori’s 10 Year Celebration
Sumayyah Akoodie
I
t was all black and white as Crosby Montessori Nursery & Pre-School celebrated a decade of success. A fundraising dinner was held at the Sultan Bahu Hall last Friday night to commemorate this magnificent milestone. The school, headed by Nadia and Safiya Seedat and Hasina Jeewa, was started in 2003 with a mere 15 pupils and has now expanded to more than 65 pupils across all age groups. Hosting the “Black and White” themed dinner in Mayfair was a fitting way to celebrate this special occasion, and brought together a number of both past and present, pupils and parents.
T
he well-known brand Jimmy’s Killer Fish & Chips sent out a challenge to its patrons, “Can you beat Our Unbeatable Gatsby?” 3 people were chosen from hundreds of applicants to take on the challenge on Saturday 1st September which drew crowds of people to the Fordsburg, Mint Road store.
The evening, emceed by Ejaaz Waja, provided an exciting line up of kids’ stand-up comedy, with some blasts from the past and a guest appearance by Juleikha “Gori” Adam, an astounding mother and teacher. A decadent menu was served throughout the evening with student waiters meeting guest requests. Those attending were also kept entertained by rising Nasheed artist Waleed Bata, with songs from his debut album “A Light upon the Earth”.
The challengers were Naeem (Red) , Munir (Blue) and Mitch (Blue tracksuit). The clock was started and down they went. The rule was to finish the Gatsby within 20 minutes. The enthusiastic challengers got down but soon tired out as the Gatsby prove to be a formidable meal…time went on with crowds cheering and food gulping when challenger number 1, Munir, couldn’t continue. Beaten by the Gatsby he folded in 16 Minutes. Finally the clock ran out and left both Mitch and Naeem halfway through proving that man could not beat the Gatsby. The two standing were awarded tickets to Joey Rasdiens show, Mixed DNA, and also 1 box of Jimmy’s Fish and Chips every month for a year by owner of Jimmy’s, Reza Amod.
The highlight of the evening however was undoubtedly the children’s art, created by present learners of the school. These pieces, which formed the centre piece of each table, were later auctioned, with eager eyed parents and families bidding for their little ones pieces. The tenth year anniversary dinner was most definitely a resounding success with all proceeds going towards school improvements. This will assist in the transition towards primary schooling facilities and the creation of enhanced comforts for pre- primary kids.
“Well done boys, better luck next time.” Amod said that he intends rolling out the challenge nationally to all Jimmy’s stores as maybe, just maybe one South African can beat his Gatsby. Do you think you can? Apply in store at any Jimmy's Fish & Chips.
From Left to Right: Owner of Jimmy’s Killer Fish & Chips Fordsburg Reeza Amod standing next to the Winner Mitch and challengers Munir and Naeem
To the next 10 years for the ‘home away from home’ and its vision of creating ‘happy learners through a lifestyle of excellence’!
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Joburg steaming ahead with ward-based community policing! T
he City recently launched a ward-based community policing programme. During the launch, the Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Cllr Parks Tau, made an undertaking that there will be an extensive communication and engagement with all relevant stakeholders while the project is being rolled out. Cllr Sello Lemao, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Public Safety, has commenced with a process of engaging and communicating with the ward councillors and other stakeholders on the ground. “Through the ten (10) officers per ward programme, the city aims to integrate all law enforcement agencies at a ward level and ensure thorough engagement with the communities the city serves. This is about visible policing targeting all crimes and by-laws as well as effective monitoring and evaluation tools to gauge the impact”, said Lemao. He said, “It will also assist the city to further
profile all problematic areas, crime hot spots and other areas of concern per each ward in the City of Johannesburg”. The strategy has broad objectives, which are necessary to achieve the vision of a safe, secure and resilient city that protects, serves, and empowers communities. These are:• To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the law enforcement system as a deterrent to crime and grime; • To reduce the incidence of violent and economic crimes; • To improve compliance with city by-law and other legislation; • To forge a multi-disciplinary of policy development, planning, operations management and coherent action; “It is for these reasons that the city has embarked on an intense stakeholder engagement process in all its seven regions. The city is in the process of changing course in aligning its programmes to meet the city’s Joburg 2040 strategy objectives. In order to create a healthy, clean and safe environment the city is implementing grass-roots
community policing and ensuring safety for our people in a different way”, said Lemao. Roger Shadwick, the Chairperson of the Residents Association in Ward 73, said “We are excited to have this type of the community policing at the ward-based level. It will assist us to deal with issues of illegal dumping, overcrowding and illegal shebeens”. “The community policing will assist our ward in dealing with the contravention of the city’s by-laws, including buildings that had been abandoned by their owners; were derelict or in a deplorable state; invaded by crime lords and squatters; were overcrowded; contravened various by-laws and other legislation”, said Tebogo Sinowa from Ward 64 in Region F. This process also emphasises driving a strong community participation and awareness in terms of by-law compliance and expected code of conduct by officers on duty. It further enhances the relationship between law enforcement agencies and the community that they are deployed in.
Ward based structures are being established in all the city’s 130 wards. They will be responsible for ensuring that a ward law enforcement approach is instilled and owned by all structures at ward level. This will entail the integration of all law enforcement agents based in respective wards will help to ensure a safe environment within the respective wards.
This will include the following: • Community Policing Forum • SAPS • Environmental Health Practitioners • Provincial street patrollers • Community Development Workers • Ward Committee Members • Other Law Enforcement Agencies in the ward The city wants to ensure that with this programme that police are no longer the sole guardians of law and order, but all members of the community become active allies in the effort to enhance the safety and quality of neighbourhood.
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Flowers with a difference
B
ella Flora which has recently opened its doors in the Fordsburg area leverages both quality and customer satisfaction guaranteed. On impulse, realising that there was a much needed gap in market the owner of Bella Flora decided to go with her instinct; hence Bella Flora opened its doors at Shop. 10 Leesons Square, Corner Lillian and Dolly Rathebe Streets in Fordsburg with her overriding commitment to offer you the best quality flowers at the most competitive prices. Bella Flora brings you flowers and floral hampers, bouquets, arrangements and gifts beyond your wildest dreams. Now you can simply beautify your home or surroundings regularly without an effort or send flowers to loved ones, friends and associates easily by simply contacting them. They strive at providing you with “A grade” flowers only and to always have florists on hand who understand your requirements for your special occasion. “In everything we do, we focus on 4 key factors: Only the best quality flowers for our customers. We deliver on our promises on time, every time. The best
Value for Money so you will love what you getting and the best customer experience for each and every order.” At Bella Flora they believe that it is the little things and attention to detail that make or break the final product and as such, they pride themselves on having a reputation in the industry for always taking extra special care and putting in the extra effort that makes the final presentation a gift worth getting. Every client is important and will be given the same level of respect as the next regardless of how big or small an order may be. “I believe that my customers are the most important part of my business. With time we will develop a mutually trusting confidence and hopefully we can grow from strength to strength with the help of the communities around us… I would personally like to thank all of my clients for their current support and understanding.” said the owner Bella Flora cater for Weddings, Birthdays, Company Functions, Funerals and any special occasions like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or Valentine’s Day 365 days a year for clients in Johannesburg. Simply contact the Bella Flora team with your request on 011 492 2979 or 081 257 9657
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Spring it is! It’s time to shed off those winter doldrums and prepare to bare some skin and get some sun. The sun, the bare skin, the beach holidays, the cross country walks also mean it’s time to prevent the negative effects the warm months will have on our skin. Here are the top ten things you need to do today so your skin is ready to strut its stuff as soon as the warm weather allows.
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1. Moisturise: The importance of moisturising your skin cannot be overstated, no matter what season it happens to be. However, the skin does need a little extra TLC during the summer months and, if your skin is hydrated and healthy, it can better defend itself against sun damage and heat. 2. Exfoliate: No more dry skin this spring! That is for winter months only. If you want that dewy glow to create a spring makeup look, your skin has to be rid of any flakes and dry spots. Try making your own natural scrub at home by adding a little sugar to a cup of whole milk. Rub it softly over your face, and the sugar will slough off dead skin as the milk regenerates and moisturises. 3. Find the Perfect SPF: As spring approaches, it’s time to get serious about SPF. You will need a day moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30 and a body lotion that has an SPF of around 15 that you can apply throughout the day. You should also pick up some lip balm that has an SPF of around 20, as well. If you’re going to be sunbathing, grab a lotion with an SPF of 50 or higher. 4. Fake a Tan: Your skin has been missing sunlight during the winter, so if you
want to make a splash this spring try faking it a bit first. Grab your favourite self-tanner or find out what product will work for your skin (get a separate brand formulated for your face, if you wish to tan there, too) and apply it after you have showered and exfoliated. 5. Define Your Brows: The best day look for spring is a beautiful complexion and a well-defined brow. If you get your brows waxed, make an appointment. For a warm weather-proof look, pick up some brow powder and brow gel to define the colour and help your brows stay put. 6. Nourish Your Pout: Make sure to apply lip balm religiously and exfoliate your lips before spring is in full swing. One of the best makeup looks for spring is a sexy, shiny pale lip, so make sure your puckers are flake free and feeling their softest this season. 7. Waterproof Your Lashes: Find a great waterproof mascara before spring. This
Spa’s & Beauty
will prevent your mascara from running and allow you to jump into the pool at a moment’s notice. Try creating a look with a bare face, mascara, and soft pink lips. 8. Get Glowing: Spring is the best season to play with dewy face shimmers. To create an ethereal glow that won’t look cakey or powdery, use a tinted moisturizer, cream blush and a liquid face shimmer. Apply shimmer to your cheekbones and arch of your brows. 9. Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are a must in order to get beautiful skin for spring. They naturally contain all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants your skin needs to stay hydrated and fresh. 10. Drink More Water: Never forget to drink as much water as possible. If you want beautiful skin for spring, this is handsdown the most important beauty tip.
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Fordsburg Community Newspaper Pg 15
Pg 16 Fordsburg Community Newspaper
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Travel
Early Adopter: Build This Backyard Water Rocket N
ever has learning Newton's third law of motion (equal and opposite reaction) been so much fun. This easyto-build, kid-friendly water rocket turns any afternoon into a blast.
SAFETY
FIRST: Parental supervision strongly advised for build and launch. Tools and Materials · Electric drill with 1/16-, 5/32-, and ¼-inch bits · One No. 4 size rubber stopper (1 inch long, 1 -inch diameter at the fat end) · One 8-inch length of 3/16-inch (outside diameter) copper tubing · Bicycle pump with inflation needle · Heavy card stock · One 2-litre plastic bottle · Duct tape · One drinking straw, minimum ¼inch diameter · Four 1-inch-square wood blocks · One ½-inch plywood board, 12 to 16 inches square · One ¼-inch threaded steel rod, 18 inches long · Four ¼-inch nuts · Two washers, ¼-inch hole, 1-inch diameter Make the Stopper Assembly 1. Drill a 1/16-inch hole through the middle of the stopper.
2. Widen the hole by drilling the 5/32-inch bit about ½ inch into the top (wider part) of the stopper. 3. Insert the copper tubing into the 5/32-inch hole. 4. Push the inflation needle into the hole in the bottom of the stopper so that it feeds into the copper tube. Build the Rocket 5. Make fins from card stock; attach to the bottle with duct tape. 6. Tape the 8-inch drinking straw to the side of the bottle (oriented from top to bottom). Build the Launchpad 7. Attach square blocks to the corners of the launch platform (plywood), using quick-setting glue or 1¼-inch wood screws. 8. Place the rocket in the center of the launch platform and mark the spot directly below the plastic straw. 9. Drill a ¼-inch hole through the mark; insert the steel rod into the hole, and fix in place with nuts and washers. Prepare the Hydro-Pump Rocket for Launch 10. Attach the bicycle pump to the inflation needle. 11. Fill bottle one-third full with water, below top of copper tube. 12. Push the stopper assembly firmly into bottle's mouth. 13. Invert the rocket, and slide the soda straw onto the rod. Launch the Rocket 14. Pump air into the rocket. The amount of pressure required to fire the rocket will vary, depending on how clean the seal between the rubber stopper and the rocket is and how firmly the stopper is placed. 15. After several pumps, the pressure inside the rocket will be great enough to overcome the friction holding the stopper in place. Now comes the cool part, as the stopper releases from the rocket, and the rocket launches high into the air, shooting a trail of water behind it.
Zoom!
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Fordsburg Community Newspaper Pg 17
Pg 18 Fordsburg Community Newspaper
Fordsburg businesses threatened by Crime
Mehbub Ali Sheikh
T
he recent spate of business robberies have left shop owners in Fordsburg concerned about their safety as these robberies are becoming a daily occurrence. These criminals have left no store un-robbed and look for any opportunity to steal. During the early hours of Sunday morning 2nd September the owners of Zone Beauty Parlour situated at 45 Crown Road, Fordsburg became another victim of these cowardly thugs and thieves. The thugs got into the store from the front by breaking the security gate and door. The place was looted and left empty as the thugs made off with equipment, salon products and other electronic equipment. “I am very disappointed by what has happened to us. We are honest people trying to make a small living here in South Africa and we are tired of this situation. We thought that
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maybe the Police will do something to protect our neighbourhood but this is not happening,� said Zarina Qureshi. It is a known fact that foreigners are being targeted by unscrupulous thugs especially in Fordsburg and these victims are not willing to approach the police as they feel that even the police are not going to assist. As the crime rate increases closer to the years end many traders in Fordsburg and surrounding areas are appealing to the Police and even to the Minister of Safety & Security to help in providing safety and security to all foreign nationals. At the moment Qureshi and her family are picking up the pieces of their broken business and have to move on even though their income, however small, has been affected by crime.
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Email: sports@theindependent.co.za ENCOURAGING SPORTS DEVELOPMENT IN OUR COMMUNITIES
Bafana call up Benni
Paralympics 2012
Pistorius smashes world record O
scar Pistorius and countryman Arnu Fourie set new world records in the first-round heats of the men's 200 metres T43/44 event at the Paralympic Games on Saturday night. Double amputee Pistorius, making his first appearance at the 2012 disability showpiece, clocked 21.30 seconds to improve his own global mark in the T43 division. Having made history a few weeks earlier at the able-bodied Games, Pistorius showed his
B
afana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund called up veteran Bafana Bafana star Benni McCarthy into the squad on Sunday, 2nd September, after Mamelodi Sundowns striker Edward Manqele sustained an injury. Manqele, who had been called up as a replacement for Siyabonga Nomvethe, pulled a hamstrong during the PSL match against Maritzburg United on Sunday afternoon. The veteran Nomvethe was carried off injured on Saturday evening during Moroka Swallows' match against Orlando Pirates, prompting
Igesund to name Manqele as his replacement on Sunday morning. Just hours later, Manqele himself pulled a hamstring forcing Igesund to turn to the veteran McCarthy. Bafana Bafana left for Sao Paulo on 3rd September to play five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil on Friday. They also have a friendly game scheduled against Mozambique at Mbombela Stadium on September 11. This news comes after skipper Steven Pienaar was also withdrawn from the clash against Brazil after pulling a thigh muscle playing for Everton at the weekend.
SEPTEMBER 2012
intent early on at the Paralympics by comfortably winning his heat and coasting into Sunday's 200m final.
Fellow South African Fourie, a single-leg amputee, set a new world best in the T44 division. Fourie also reached the final, finishing second in his heat in 22.57 --0.34 seconds behind American double-amputee Blake Leeper. Brazilian Alan Oliveira won the first heat in 21.88, storming clear of American favourite Jerome Singleton in the finishing straight.