Roodelife - Issue 4 by RoodeLife Magazine

ISSUE

04 APR

JUNE

2015

W W W. R O O D E L I F E . C O. Z A

Kurt Darren LEAVES FOR THE CAPE

MOLOTO ROAD

Prayer Drive COUNTRY-STYLE LIVING IN PEBBLE ROCK FITNESS

CARDIO VS DIET

SPIRIT

MEN & THEIR GIANTS

RECIPES

SOUP: COMFORT FOOD FOR THE SOUL

Community News

Inspirational Living

WIN

A E O VER TO T HE V A MAK

R79

Soul & Spirit

LUE O

Health & Beauty

ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE 02

Enquiries -------------------------------------------Danita Nortjé danita@roodelife.co.za 082 751 4998 Editorial -------------------------------------------Danita Nortjé Lulie Swanepoel Contributors -------------------------------------------Angela van Rooyen Brenda van der Merwe Carlos Coveiro Dr Surene Fourie Engela van Eyssen Isebell Gauché Mike Bolhuis Mieke Bolhuis Optimum Financial Services Prof. Andre Buys Riaan de Wet Photographer -------------------------------------------Shireen Alberts Advertising -------------------------------------------Danita Nortjé iLead Design Design & Layout -------------------------------------------Erika Wasserman Nicola du Toit Project Management -------------------------------------------Ingrid Stegmann Nicola du Toit Marketing -------------------------------------------Johann Herbst Printing -------------------------------------------UVO Communications Cover Photo -------------------------------------------Kurt Darren & his beautiful family. Photo by: Shireen Alberts Issue 4 -------------------------------------------April - June 2015

Roode.Life #RoodeLifeMag RoodeLife

Letter From The Editor

COMMUNITY NEWS 05

Thunderstorms: Nature’s Exhilarating Dramas

Roodeplaat Women’s Business Breakfast

Hope For Road Of Death

INSPIRATIONAL LIVING 10

Kurt Darren Leaves Gauteng For The Cape

Save Energy: Use The Sun

STYLISH LIVING 06

Let Your Radiance Shine Through

Contemporary Country-Style Living

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT 21

Say It With A Rose

Soup: The Comfort Food

LOCAL SPORT NEWS 32

How To Play The Pebble Rock Golf Course

SOUL & SPIRIT 04

Men And Their Giants

What Happens If You Outlive Your Partner?

Moloto Road: Prayer Drive

SCHOOL NEWS 42

Curro Roodeplaat

Laerskool Die Poort

Laerskool Kameelfontein

AWARENESS 08

Dangers Of Speeding & Texting While Driving

HEALTH & FITNESS 26

The Article That Men Ought To Read

Cardio vs. Diet

CREATIVE WRITING 40

Short Story: I’ve Never Been So Excited Since I Found Out That...

W W W. R O O D E L I F E . C O. Z A

Editors Letter... I

can hardly believe that 2015 is already in April! Johnny Clegg described it so well in his song, December African Rain, where he asks: “Where did the time go? Can you tell me where did the time go?” I don’t think we can really recall, but let’s reminiscent about what the year has brought us thus far.

In the first quarter of 2015, we have already seen so much happening, the most upsetting of which was the death of a cyclist on Kameelfontein Road, just outside of the Sable Hills Waterfront Estate’s gates. Driving past the scene of the accident made me realise once more that you never know when your last day will be and, not to sound like a cliché, but that you should really live your life as if every day is your last.

“ Live your life to the fullest. Forgive. Be good to one another. Spend more time with your loved ones and tell them how much you love them.” Keeping in line with this topic, we talked to Mike Bolhuis in our latest edition about the dangers of speeding and texting (or even phoning) while driving – the latter being something that most of us are guilty of. We hope that you, as part of our community, will get more involved in the joint effort to make the roads in our area, like Kameelfontein Road and Moloto Road, safer for all who use them. The first way to do this is by simply submitting complaints at the Metro Police. Secondly, submit your suggestions. Personally, I think a traffic light at the T-junction between Sefako Makgatho Drive and Cullinan Road would already help a great deal. So we ask that you read the article on page 8 and send your concerns and complaints to us. In our fourth edition, we also had the privilege to sit down and ask Kurt Darren a few questions about his charming wife, Dunay, their little one, Kyrah, and their time here in the Roodeplaat area. For those of you who may not know this, Kurt and Dunay will be moving to the Western Cape. We therefore wish the Darren family only the best of luck with their new venture! We just know that they are going to miss the beautiful nature, wildlife, fishing and fun on the lake, and everything else that the Roodeplaat area has to offer.

Dear ladies, this is especially for you…Philna Pienaar, an image Consultant from Chata Romana will be doing a 1-hour Colour and Style Worskshop on the 8th of May, 10:00 am at Gabbata Lodge. Keep your eye on our Facebook page for further details. She will show us how even something like changing the colour of your hair and the type of skirts that you wear can change the way that people perceive you. The added bonus: it’s another chance for the local ladies to get to know each other a little bit better. I would like to congratulate Angelene van Rooyen from Laerskool Die Poort who won our short story competition. I absolutely love that we get to publish the work of some of the very talented children in our area. Angelene, I’m sure that all the children will love to read your story! Lastly, our team at RoodeLife wishes that you and your family will enjoy a wonderful Mother’s and Father’s Day together. Remember that family is precious and that we should appreciate all the time we get to share with those closest to us!

Until next time...

Danita

W W SERVICES & ACTIVITIES

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here luxury and nature meet beautiful tranquil surroundings on the banks of the Roodeplaat Dam...

Huge windows and inviting balconies draw the atmosphere of the region right into every corner of the country house ..... making this the perfect venue for conferences, corporate guests, holiday makers, week-end escapees and even training retreats. We offer various Wedding Packages & cater for whatever business, function or occasion we will endeavour to provide you with your individual requirements. Elevating Minds hosts workshops & Team Building Exercises tailored to your Corporate Needs at our venue. (www.elevatingminds.com)

ACCOMMODATION INCLUDES

12 self-catering units. Each unit consists of 2 en-suite bedrooms, lovely lounge and dining room opening onto a private balcony with braai facilities, fully equipped kitchenettes. We offer Self-Catering packages and Bed & Breakfast. as well as dinner. One luxurious family unit consisting of: 1 spacious en-suite bedroom with corner bath and reading corner and 2 double rooms with sharing bathroom. All units are equipped with a LCD Television, DVD Player & DStv. Wireless internet is available.

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIALS SPECIAL 1

Why not treat your mom and a partner to a day of pampering at Sable House Country Retreat? (This voucher is valid for 3 months)

What better way to treat your mom than at Sable House Country Retreat? We’ll make sure that she doesn’t have to lift a finger, as our Sable House team will treat her like a queen. Spoil mom and book for a Mother’s Day Buffet at Sable House @ SPECIAL 3 R250p/p (Three Course meal) Bookings are essential. Please contact us for more information regarding different prices and packages available. SPECIAL 2

admin@sablehouse.co.za 071 870 6162 www.sablehouse.co.za Sable House Country Retreat, No. 7 Elandstreet, Sable Hills Waterfront Estate, Kameelfontein

SOUL & SPIRIT

MEN and their giants. By Carlos Corviera

n these modern days we live in, there are many types of giants in the lives of men. In South Africa specifically, it feels as if the giants are getting bigger and more day-by-day, while the opportunities seem to dwindle away and the pressure to provide for our families is increasing.

God made man to be the provider, but when a man can no longer do this for whatever reason, he loses faith in himself and his abilities. He becomes negative and negativity kills creativity. As a result, to stay positive feels almost impossible, but alas, not all hope is lost. In the Bible, we find inspiration for living and the will to strive in life in the story of David and Goliath. As you know, the Israelites were at war with the Philistines and the Philistines had the upper hand in this great battle. They had Goliath, the warrior whom every man in Israel feared. Goliath, however, made one mistake and that was not only to challenge Israel, but also their God. In Israel, there was one young shepherd named David who had a revelation about God. To him, God was not just a part of his life, but God was his whole life. David had a great relationship with God and knew to trust in His power – the One who rescued him from the claws of both lion and bear. David knew that if he was to try and kill Goliath using only his own abilities, he would fail. So when he approached Goliath, he did not go in his own name, but in the name of God, for Goliath did not challenge David’s abilities, but the abilities of God. Just as David was able to realise this, we need to realise the great truth, which is that our giants are not challenging us, but they are challenging God by asking us, “Where is your God”?

Sometimes, the challenges we face as men are tests to see if we truly believe in God and His Word, and if we actually understand the abilities of God, the One who made both heaven and earth. God is Almighty and He is NOT afraid of our giants. We need to understand that God is for us and not against us. He loves us and like any father, wants the best for His children. Therefore, I want to encourage you to stand firm in His power and might, holding on to His promises. Spend time with your Heavenly Father and see how He will lead you into victory! 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 (KJV) 13 | If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; 14 | If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

May you discover that God the Father has given his child, Jesus, so that we can have life.

COMMUNITY NEWS

THUNDERSTORMS NATURE’S MOST EXHILARATING DRAMAS By Professor André Buys

In the early afternoon on a hot and cloudless summer’s day, a small white cloud appears in the blue sky. Soon there are many more that grow in size until a billowing cloud rises up and spreads out high in the atmosphere. The first thunderclap announces that a storm is on its way. Trees start to shake in the wind as the storm strikes in a wild crescendo of rain, hail, thunder and lightning. Then it dies down, the clouds break open and sunshine returns as the clouds dissolve. What a show!

But, where did all this energy come from? The two prerequisites for a typical Highveld thunderstorm to develop are hot weather and high humidity. As the sun heats the land surface, patches of warm air rise up as thermals. As the upwelling air expands and the air pressure drops, its relative humidity increases until a mist cloud of fine water droplets forms. When water vapour condenses into liquid water, it releases latent heat. This heats the cloud, making it expand and rise even faster. As more humid air is drawn in from below, the amount of released energy increases.

Large water drops form by accretion, but are suspended by the strong updraft in the cloud. As the naturally ionized air molecules flow upwards, negative ions bind with the water drops and the positively charged air molecules rise to the cloud top. The cloud becomes a huge electrically charged battery of billions of volts. The first lightning bolts are often internal discharges within the cloud. Ground strikes occur when the discharges are between the cloud base and the land surface. The lightning enhances the formation of water drops so that the updraft can no longer support the accumulated water mass and the water starts falling down. This drags the air down and the airflow changes direction, causing a strong wind ahead of the approaching storm. The cloud bursts and there is a heavy downpour of rain. Positive charges are brought down by the falling water, resulting in more lightning strikes. A circulating airflow pattern develops in the storm cloud, such that some raindrops are carried up again to the upper part of the cloud where they freeze and then fall back as hailstones. The thunderstorm has now reached its mature stage. When the water has rained out, the cloud dissipates and the sky clears. The average electric current from a single lightning bolt can provide enough energy to light a city of 200 000 people for one minute.

Did you know? Direct strikes and even indirect strikes within 40 metres of a power line can cause power outages due to sub-standard maintenance of surge arrestors, resulting in over-voltage damage to the line, transformers and other equipment.

The velocity of the updraft can reach speeds of up to 100 km per hour. As the top of the rising cumulus cloud reaches the temperature inversion level at the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere, typically at a height of about 12 km, it spreads out as an anvil-shaped cloud. A storm cell has formed.

Pretoria is in a high lightning intensity zone with 6 – 7 ground strikes per km2 per year. The enormous energy of a lightning flash breaks the nitrogen molecules in the air and enables them to combine with oxygen and water, forming nitrates and ammonia. These are carried by the rain to the ground, where they fertilise plants and the algae in your swimming pool! Therefore, enjoy thunderstorms as one of nature’s greatest shows, but stay indoors or in a vehicle during a lightning storm. If you are caught in the open, seek shelter in a building, but do not take shelter under lone trees or in isolated sheds.

STYLISH LIVING

LET YOUR

RADIANCE

SHINE THROUGH How you feel you look can impact greatly on how you feel about yourself – whether going to work, meeting socially or even just playtime! But it does not just affect how we feel about ourselves, as research shows that it only takes a few seconds for others to form an opinion of us when we meet them, based on our personal appearance. So, if you want to get ahead in your career, be the better sales person, win that promotion and be taken seriously by your boss, then now is the time to review your personal style and grooming. “My greatest desire is to inspire women and men to become the best they can be, so that their confidence builds and they can shine as successful individuals, achieving their own goals and dreams”, says Philna Pienaar, a Certified Chata Romano Image Consultant. “Whether short, tall, petite or plus-sized … whether shy and conservative, or outgoing, bold and bodacious … whether in a professional working career or a professional home executive … or for that special occasion wedding day or formal dance, there is an image style just right for you and it’s my goal to help you find and achieve that style.”

“My aspiration is to give every client a personal selfconfidence boost; to help you discover the very best you that you can be, so that you can shine radiantly and feel fantastic about life” Philna Pienaar - a Certified Chata Romano Image Consultant

After years of research to find the image consultancy system that she full heartedly believed in, Philna found Chata Romano – The Complete Image Solution®, a unique global system that provides individuals with their correct colours and styles for hair, make-up and clothing. Chata also developed the Chata Romano Style System, and the Chata Romano Wardrobe System. “It’s a fun and exciting process for individuals,” says Philna. “Whether a full makeover or consultations on colour, style and wardrobe planning, my clients see immediate results and get a personal self-confidence boost.” Philna offers personal consultations, group consultations, shopping appointments, makeovers and workshops for both women and men, either as individual consultations or corporate presentations and workshops.

“What an amazing eye opener; I can now select the right make-up, hair colour and clothing to match my skin tone – and I cannot go wrong! I have my Chata Romano Colour Chart in my bag at all times.”

WOMENS DAY STYLE WORKSHOP Contact Philna Pienaar

- Malinda Wright

Cell: 082 Pienaar 449 4039 is giving a Philna Johannesburg, Gauteng 1 Hour Colour, Style and Travels to Pretoria. Wardrobe Workshop for E-mail: philna@chataromano.com RoodeLife’s Woman’s Day

“Thank you Philna, your in-depth knowledge, expert eye and stylish skill has sparked a new confidence in me.” - Bardien Putter

PRIZES & GIVEAWAYS!! DATE : 8th of May 2015 TIME : 10:00am VENUE: Gabbata Lodge, Roodeplaatdam. COST: R170 per person Contact Danita Nortjé to book your seat, send email to danita@roodelife.co.za SEATS ARE LIMITED TO 100

INCLUDES: HAIR VOUCHER

WORTH R250 FROM LUNATIC FRINGE SALON

“ This workshop is a must-have if you always want to look your best! I admired Philna’s passion and professionalism.” - Nigel Hall

Contact Philna Pienaar Cell: 082 449 4039 | Johannesburg, Gauteng, travels to Pretoria. Email: Philna@chataromano.com Facebook page: Philna Pienaar – A Certified Chata Romano Image Consultant.

AWARENESS

SPEEDING

& THE DANGERS OF

TEXTING WHILE

DRIVING

Mike Bolhuis shares insight regarding the factors contributing to accidents, what to do in emergency situations, procedures to follow and the consequences of reckless road usage.

The main factors that contribute to accidents: »» Speeding and driving faster than road conditions allow for. »» Distractions as the result of cellphone usage, picking up an item, addressing a passenger or attending to an animal in the vehicle. »» Weather conditions related to rain, glare from the sun, thunder, wind and hail. »» Infrastructure, such as lack of road signs, potholes, no markings and general road conditions. »» Other party involvement, such as light from oncoming traffic, stationary vehicles and actions of other road users. »» Vehicle condition where components are not in sufficient working order or fail. »» Manufacturing faults.

The Consequences of Driving Under the Influence If someone is injured or killed and/or property damaged because of an accident caused while under the influence of alcohol, the driver may also face jail time. The investigation process can take several months and if found guilty, the driver faces suspension of their driver’s license, a fine and imprisonment; although the sentence can be suspended for a specific period, provided the driver doesn’t break the law during this period. The circumstances surrounding the incident will be investigated and the sentence accordingly enforced. Factors such as whether there is enough evidence against the accused drunk driver, the level of property damage, the severity of injury, whether someone has died, and whether there are enough reliable witnesses will contribute to the state’s case against the accused.

Cellphone Usage Distracts Never operate a cellphone while driving. Pull off the road and come to a complete standstill before you text, read a text message, and make or answer a call. The dangers of cellphone usage while driving have been well covered and it is a legal offence to hold or operate any cellphone type device while driving. The driver can be charged with reckless or negligent driving if a collision occurs because of cellphone operation or inattention.

»» Chain accidents. »» Health conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes or fatigue because of medication. »» Driver intoxication.

Speeding Kills The Roodeplaat/Dinokeng region has over 330 000 residents and 35 estates. The road infrastructure has not yet been upgraded to handle the large number of vehicles. People often drive at speeds of 140-160 kph where the road conditions only allow for speeds of 80 kph in heavy traffic and 100 kph during the quieter times of day.

According to Arrive Alive and the AA, road fatality statistics show that up to 40% of fatalities on the South African roads are pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.

“I no longer run next to the Kameelfontein Road

because of the increase in traffic. It has become unsafe and with the number of vehicles using the road, the oxygen level is too low for healthy running. I now rather use my gym at home and when I decide to run, I keep at least 1.5 metres from the road.”

Pedestrians & Cyclists on the Road As a road user, abide by the rules of the road. Always influence the traffic in a positive manner. Obey the traffic signs and keep left. Cycle and run in single file and do so during the day wearing reflective clothing and safety gear. Use the necessary hand signals to indicate intention of turning and never stop on the road, unless you obey a road sign or a traffic officer. Make sure your cycle is roadworthy. If a pedestrian is hit on the road, the cause of accident is most likely the pedestrian. The evidence collected at the crime scene is used in finding the driver. If the scene is compromised, it will complicate the investigation. The investigators will look at CCTV footage where available, speak to witnesses, assess the vehicle parts left on the scene, and visit repair shops in the vicinity. They may also speak to people living in the vicinity of the incident, in order to enquire whether they have seen the vehicle as described by witnesses to find the driver. Where a pedestrian or cyclist is hit and killed by a vehicle, several factors will be considered, including whether the person was on the road, obeyed the traffic rules, was visible, acted irresponsibly or was perhaps intoxicated. The investigators will also assess the driver’s responsibility, such as whether or not the driver used a cellphone, was intoxicated, was speeding, disobeyed traffic rules, drove without a license, intentionally drove over the pedestrian or cyclist, and immediately stopped and/or took evasive action to avoid the accident.

If the pedestrian or cyclist was at fault, the driver can claim compensation or take legal action for the injuries that passengers sustained in the driver’s attempt to avoid the incident. Although it is imperative to come to an immediate stop after any type of accident, should the driver’s life be endangered if he or she stays at the accident scene because of an aggressive crowd, the driver should make a video recording, take pictures and/or have an audio recording of the scene and stay in the vehicle. In dire cases, the driver should leave and immediately drive to the nearest police station to report the incident and should also call the emergency services to the scene. If a person is found guilty of killing a pedestrian or cyclist in a hit-and-run incident, they face charges for culpable homicide. It is unfortunately difficult to prove, since people have the tendency to look at their own future and thus lie to prevent being charged with murder, and most often conceal facts.

The legal system in South Africa has become corrupt and because of such, the case can drag on for up to ten years. Evidence must be collected and with the South African forensic labs overloaded, it can take up to three years to get results back. With power outages, there is also the risk of samples being destroyed, especially when the generators do not work. If any part of the evidence is lost or corrupted, it will affect the court ruling and people often get away with short sentences. That being said, a person may face jail time of up to 15 years.

What to Do at the Accident Scene Always attend to people before assessing the damage to property. It is a crime not to stop after an accident and you can face hefty fines and imprisonment for not doing so in accordance with the National Road Traffic Act. »» Stop – attend to any injured persons and call emergency services. »» Stay at the scene, unless you need to find assistance, and only leave once a police officer has given permission. »» Notify SAPS. »» Assess damage to property. »» Collect the details of all parties involved, including ID number,contact information, driver’s license number, full names and surnames, vehicle registration number, model, make, colour and the license plate. »» Confirm contact details by calling the numbers provided. »» Get the details of passengers and any other parties or witnesses involved. »» Provide your details to the police. »» Collect the details of all emergency personnel, police and traffic officers and the tow-in company, including ranks contact numbers, vehicle registration numbers and office addresses. »» Take notes of the scene. »» Write down the circumstances that led to the accident and all actions taken by parties. »» If you have a cellphone or camera, take pictures, video or audio from the moment you have stopped. This will be of value when having to reconstruct the accident scene. »» If not, draw a detailed sketch of the accident scene. »» Do not move any vehicles until the necessary markings have been made and the officers provide permission to do so. »» If no one has been hurt and no other vehicle or person has been involved, you can move your vehicle and report the accident at the nearest police station within 24 hours. »» Don’t take any alcohol or medication to calm your nerves, unless done so under medical instruction.

Emergency Numbers

* * * *

SAPS – 10111 ER24 – 084 124 Emergency Cellphone – 112 Emergency Ambulance – 10177

Email Mike Bolhuis with complaints and suggestions about the Kameelfontein and Moloto Road conditions and to report reckless driving. We will forward the information to the relevant authorities. Email: mikebolhuis1@gmail.com

INSPIRATIONAL LIVING

“

“ I will miss the people of Roodeplaat. RoodeLife Magazine visited Kurt and his beautiful family to learn more about his career, family life and future prospects.

You’re leaving Gauteng behind for the Western Cape Province – why? We always planned to stay two or three years. I’ve been approached to become involved in the exciting Val de Vie project, where one thousand units will be developed and I have to be there for the building of the units, which will commence in April. Dunay was at first a bit cautious to make the move because Gauteng is her world, but she’s now fine with the idea. They already want her to become involved in the NGO. She may even open a practice or play-therapy group in the Cape, but she’s a full-time mom at present.

You moved from Centurion to Sable Hills about three years ago. Why did you decide on Sable Hills and what makes the region special?

The people have been exceptionally supportive, such as the ladies from the Women’s Club who brought us flowers with the birth of Kyrah and the estate manager who also brought gifts. There’s also the lady who sells newspapers at the gate entrance who brought us gifts. I even came to know the security personnel well. There is the Olive Green Restaurant where we enjoyed breakfasts and the Sable Hills Club House restaurant which has always been one of our favourite dining spots, and dining at Gabbata next door to Sable Hills…I’ve always enjoyed just being able to relax and enjoy life here.

“

Do you think you’ll miss Gauteng and perhaps return one day? Yes, we might return. Many of my friends say I am crazy to leave here…where in the world can you still walk to gym? We’ve known fantastic people here, such as Rocco and Jaonie – our neighbours to the left who regularly visited and would just come over to enjoy a glass of wine or to watch rugby with us. I’ll miss the gym here, which helped me a lot after the accident. I have never been as fit as here at Sable Hills. Yes, I’ll miss our time here. Dunay completed her Masters in Psychology at NWU during our stay here. The community consists of caring people willing to help each other, for example, the newsletter about safety in the region, Marlene from the gym who helped me during the recovering period after the accident, the Pilates instructor, Brenda van der Merwe, who was willing to provide me with private lessons at home and all the people who sent flowers and gifts.

M any of my friend s s ay I a m cra z y to l e av e he re . . . WHERE IN THE WORLD C A N YO U S T I L L WA L K TO G YM?

“

Our real estate agent, Machelle Henning-Walker (RM Realtors), convinced us to come and stay in Roodeplaat. I originally looked at properties in Pretoria East, because I came from Centurion and I also have a few properties in the East which I rent out. I soon realised that the region has a lot to offer. You can do your shopping here at the centres in the vicinity without ever having to go into the city. Though we had the occasional boat passing with photographers taking pictures or people yelling our names, we’ve had a lot of privacy for the period that we’ve been here.

Popular South African singer, songwriter and actor, Kurt Darren, leaves Gauteng for the Cape.

What are your career and personal highlights? My first gold CD was the best. I jumped from the stage at the KKNK in my excitement upon receiving the award. Then there was the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Tribute held in Hyde Park, London in 2008, when I had the privilege to perform alongside bands and performers such as Queen and Amy Winehouse. Other highlights include, of course, Dunay and our wedding, the birth of our daughter Kyrah on November 10, 2014, and also my birthday celebration on the farm with 30 000 people attending.

What led to the release of your debut album “Precious Love?” I sang at Matt Hurter’s place and someone asked me to record a few tracks. Lance James was there and I consider him as one of my biggest inspirations in music. I still see him regularly.

How and when did you and Dunay meet? We met eleven years ago during the recording of a music video called “Staan op”, which if translated into English is “Get up”. She was one of four models on the set and I had to wear one of those “help-my-sterk-lyk hempies” and boxer shorts, and had to act as if I woke up. When asked to be one of the models for the video, she enquired as to whom the artist was upon which the agent commented “just a common guy”. The boxer and T-shirt look certainly didn’t do anything to improve on her first impressions. I invited her to dinner and she declined. I then asked if she would at least consider coffee, but she at first didn’t want anything to do with me. It took about three weeks for her to agree to a date. After that, I didn’t hear anything from her for about three months, but we eventually became friends and stayed friends for a long time before she luckily changed her mind.

Do you plan on having more children? If it depends on Dunay, we’ll have ten children. But yes, we plan on two or more kids.

Is it difficult to write music with a young one in the house? Kyrah keeps us busy, but we manage well. We would have written until midnight, but we normally finish at nine in the evening to avoid waking Kyrah. I wrote three of my CDs here. Indeed, I wrote nine songs today and yesterday. We often have to be rather quiet when we write; otherwise Kyrah will soon let us know when we’re being too loud.

How do you and Dunay spend your leisure time? We frequently go to game reserves. I am an ambassador for SANParks. I am also involved in anti-rhino-poaching campaigns, and enjoy scuba diving and fishing. Dunay loves shopping. She can shop for hours and return with only a gift for me.

What challenges have you faced in your career and personal life? The accident and the subsequent three months of being out of action, as well as the double vision as a result of the accident were challenging. My vision is now returning to normal. I used to read a lot, but after the accident…we’ll have to wait and see. I managed to record a CD within three months of the accident. The inauguration of Jacob Zuma was a low and high at the same time. Low because of the letters received from people supporting a far-right political view. I wrote an open letter in response, which received over 200 0000 responses on Facebook and 98% of the responses were positive. It was a painful moment transformed into something positive.

You are one of the best awarded Afrikaans singers of our time. To what do you contribute your success? I write the type of music that makes people forget traffic and the hassles of life. People can sing along and dance to the music. It is family-oriented and thus offers something for everyone. People who know me can confirm that I enjoy what I’m doing and when I’m on stage, I interact with the audience.

Many of your songs are performed and covered by artists in Europe. Do you consider it as something positive when artists cover and interpret your music? Yes, many South Africans are living in countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. They and the people from these countries attend my shows because they find Afrikaans “charming” and then perform, record and interpret the songs. The artists give my music exposure and many of my songs have been translated into European languages. I have even on occasion performed in Dutch and consider it an honour to be asked to do so. It’s fun!

C | 082 789 7888 T | 012 667 1135 machelle@rmrealtors.co.za www.rmrealtors.co.za

What inspired you to become involved in the film industry? I entered the film industry after someone had asked me if I wanted a role in a movie. You also sometimes play a role when on stage. I’ve played in several movies since then and would like to be a producer one day, though I will always make music.

Any upcoming movies we should know about? I am playing in the movie Stone Cold Jane Austen, a feature film about the South African music industry. *Produced by Jon Savage – a comedy about a fictitious band with the same name as one of the best bands that ever played. The film is due for release later this year and not to be missed.

What advice can you give young South African artists about careers in the music and entertainment industries? • You need discipline, since you won’t become famous through a quick fly-by-night hit on the radio. • Be on time if you have an appointment, whether it is an interview on radio or a television show. The notion that it is acceptable to be late if you’re a performer is completely wrong. Be cautious about people who want to involve you in projects, such as credit card schemes or building projects. • There are many pitfalls out there. Talk to someone that can help you to invest, because this is an industry that works in cycles. • Property may not always be the best investment, but it can help.

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Country-Style Living IN THE

OF PEBBLE ROCK

STYLISH LIVING

The modern country estate home of Hannes and Cindy Mentz, located in the upmarket Pebble Rock Golf & Bushveld Estate in Roodeplaat, boasts a distinct family and homely character, despite its majestic size.

A well-manicured garden greets the visitor as one enters through the gates. Beautiful water features provide for a tranquil ambience mirroring the Bushveld feel of the estate. The sweet-smelling scent emanating from the roses, on path to the main entrance of the home, prepare the guest for the sensory feast to follow. Large light coloured tiles keep the house cool during the warm summer months. Cindy has a passion for Persian rugs, which can be seen throughout the home, providing an almost stately appearance to an otherwise warm and friendly family and entertainment home. The family regularly prepares healthy meals with herbs from their own herb garden. It features a charming pathway lined with lavender, chives, sage, coriander, parsley, and basil. Cindy explains the prominence of brinjals:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am crazy about eggplant and regularly use it in stews.â&#x20AC;? She also has a small worm farm which she uses to promote natural composting practices.

The home reflects the Mentz family’s passion for coffee, food and plants. The family lives and entertains guests according to their motto for a great time: “Good music, lekker food, good wine, flickering candles and lots of laughter”.

The veranda with its comfortable modern lounge suite, fireplace for winter months, stylishly set dining room table with the nearby swimming pool and Jacuzzi, is the social gathering place for friends and family. The family’s appreciation for art is eminent in the display of works from Zakkie Eloff, Jo Roos, Isabel le Roux and many other well-known artists.

The home layout supports the family’s love for entertainment, cooking and socialising. A stylish bar with its aviation style décor, which reflects the passion Hannes has for flying, opens onto the veranda to complete the picture. The family lives outwards and thus spends a lot of time on the veranda and in the garden under the gazebo.

STYLISH LIVING

The modern kitchen features granite tops, a central island and dark wood kitchen cupboards where a Royal Albert English Moss set, used for formal dinners, is displayed. The kitchen leads onto a dining area where a rocket stove keeps the space warm during the winter months with the family room to the right. Cindyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second workspace is incorporated with the family room to allow for interaction with the family while she works. Her main exhibition and work room is on the opposite end of the house featuring its own veranda overlooking the duck pond.

A larger-than-life chandelier made and presented by a close friend of the family directs the eyes towards the second level of the country-style home. A small house artefact on the stairs provides for a delightful conversation piece. It was a gift from a friend and uses solar energy to power a small lamp to provide light at the end of the stairway. The second storey features the bedrooms, a television room and bathrooms. It boasts a breathtakingly beautiful view of the estate The attractive cellar, which is the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite gettogether space, is located downstairs and features a large wooden table and cheese board, surrounded by wine racks and an authentic wine barrel.

NAME CHANGE AND NEW OWNERS – BUT STILL THE SAME RELIABLE SERVICE Conqueror Connection and Opposite Lock Zambezi has undergone an ownership, as well as a slight name change. Sias van den Berg bought over the business on the 1st of December 2014 and is now the new owner of Conqueror Connection and Opposite Lock Pretoria. “I want to assure our customers that we will still strive to better our service to them – with us, THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS KING”, Sias said.

ADDRESS REMAINS THE SAME THOUGH! Readers are really welcome to come and visit Conqueror Connection and Opposite Lock’s large indoor display area. 200sqm of retail, boasting the latest 4x4 accessories, such as Lightforce lights, the famed Tough Dog suspension, Mean Green and VRS recovery equipment, replacement bumpers, roof racks, aluminium canopies and the like. 1 000sqm of display area showing Conqueror’s full range – fully open and kitted similar to an indoor show, as well as 200sqm of workshop and 4x4 fitment centre. Come and experience this relaxed and professional environment with expert staff assisting you. Join the team for a cuppa at our coffee bar and let us help you create memories. We do not believe in buffed up, smooth-talking sales people, but rather technical masters selling their passion.

NEW FACES AT CONQUEROR CONNECTION and OPPOSITE LOCK PRETORIA Jaco is still the specialist master Opposite Lock 4WD accessories fitter and Nico still sees to it that your trailer is properly serviced or repaired. The sales team, however, has changed a bit – Kevin has now been joined by Louis, Jannie and Rohann to serve your best interests when it comes to sales, be it trailers or 4WD accessories. Being the longest standing Conqueror Connection dealer, this branch is instrumental in the growth of market share of the well-known Conqueror brand. This team also knows best how to identify client needs and to advise the client when necessary.

PRODUCT “The name says it all” – we sell versatile off- and on-road products that cater for the extreme off-roader who wishes to travel across Africa, as well as the camper who wants to drive a dirt road and go to a commercial camp site. The campers are easy to tow with the independent suspension on the caravan range. Easy pitching tents and the modular design ensure easy access to all camping gear and storage bins. It is also small enough to store, but big enough to live in. Its galvanised steel construction ensures that the product will not rot, rust or break. In other words, it is the ultimate off-road camper! SERVICE “We believe it is a term that is taken far too lightly in the South African market”, Sias commented. “We guarantee the best service and are proud to stand by our statement. Conqueror Connection and Opposite Lock is different and we make lifelong friends. For us, the customer is always king.”

www.conqueror-pta.co.za

tel 012 567 1378

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

Say It With A

Rose

he art of conveying messages through flowers can be traced back to ancient Turkey, from where it became popular all over Europe. The custom peaked in popularity during the Victorian times when lovers subjected to strict rules of courtship had to find ways to communicate their deep feelings for each other in secret. They attached meaning to every type of flower, its colour and the number of flowers presented in the bouquet. It became an art, but from of all the flowers, the rose stood out as the ultimate symbol of true passionate love.

Among the roses, the red rose is still the universal symbol of romance. Not surprising though, since it has a long and intriguing history. The ancient Greeks and Romans associated the red rose with the Greek Aphrodite or Roman Venus goddess of love. Aphrodite, according to Greek mythology, created the red rose when she shed the blood of her lover Adonis and cried tears filled with blood.

Let thefl owers tell the story of your love and appreciation when words are simply not enough...

The Romans went a step further by using the rose to indicate secrecy and had the custom of hanging a rose over the door of a private meeting – from there the term sub-rosa meaning “under the rose” and thus “secret”. They also decorated their dining room ceilings in rose motifs, reminding guests to keep undisclosed what they’d heard at dinner. Thus, if you want to convey a special message of love, do it with roses.

Coral Rose / symbolises desire. Give it to say “I want or desire you”.

Red Rose / ancient symbol of true love, romance and passion. Give it to say “I deeply love you”. It also says that “my love is stronger than thorns and everlasting”. The dark red rose means “beauty” or “beautiful love”.

Peach Rose / symbolises peace, togetherness, gratitude and to close the deal. Say “We’re together or one” with a peach rose.

Pink Rose /symbol of grace, elegance, beauty, perfection, courtesy and femininity with the dark and pale varieties denoting separate meanings. Give a deep pink rose to say “thank you; I appreciate you” and a light pink rose to indicate happiness or admiration.

Purple, Lavender or Lilac /symbol of enchantment

Orange Rose / symbol of versatility, attraction, vibrancy, enthusiasm and energy. You can use the orange rose to declare your admiration, excitement and passion.

White Rose / symbol of peace, purity, honour, truth, humility, innocence and remembrance. It means “You’re in my thoughts”. With it also being the traditional bridal rose, it represents a new beginning or new love.

Yellow Rose / symbol of joy, delight and friendship because of the association with the bright sun. Choose it when you want to say “you’re my friend; I hope you have a wonderful day; you’re the sunshine of my life; “thanks for being you”.

Mixing the colours /combine the various colours in one bouquet to send a more complex message. By mixing red and yellow roses, you send the message of love and joy. Red and white roses together send a message of unity.

and is given to indicate love at first sight. Give it to someone you have just met.

Don’t forget to spoil Mom this Mother’s Day • Sunday, May 10, 2015

SOUL & SPIRIT

What happens if you outlive your partner?

ost couples’ financial planning includes growing old together, but what happens when a spouse unexpectedly passes away? The remaining spouse has to be financially prepared to survive independently for a number of years. Both partners should therefore fully understand the financial implications followed by the death of the other. It often happens that the surviving spouse is forced to remarry due to financial pressure, which may lead to an untenable situation with adverse effects on the surviving spouse and children.

• Making sure that one’s will is structured properly also has a significant impact on the financial position of the surviving spouse. It frequently happens that a spouse does not provide specifically for the surviving partner in his/her will, leaving the main assets to the children and the remainder to the surviving spouse. This is often not enough. The estate might be exposed to a claim under the Maintenance of Surviving Spouses Act or expensive litigation. Not providing properly for a surviving spouse might also place strain on family relations.

Planning should include the following:

• There seems to be a misconception that a common law spouse, or those living together, automatically has a claim against a deceased partner’s estate – this is not the case. Specific plans need to be put in place and the required agreement needs to be drawn up.

• The immediate financial impact of a partner’s death should be considered. This includes providing for a funeral, estate duty, executor’s fees and other costs. The surviving partner also needs to be placed in a financial position that will allow him/her to continue paying normal monthly expenses until the deceased’s estate is finalised. • Holistic financial plans need to be drawn up for both partners, before and after retirement. Long-term planning for the financial security of the remaining spouse should be considered. Both partners should be present in the development of a financial strategy – right from the start. Informed decisions should be made together. The breadwinner may not always be aware of the cost of living and in determining how much a remaining spouse may realistically need for a financially secure future on their own; a more realistic figure is likely to be arrived at if both partners are present. • It is of the utmost importance that there is enough cash available to enable the surviving spouse to pay debts and cover living expenses. More than half of deceased estates in South Africa are short of cash. With cash many a time tied up in other assets, the remaining partner may therefore end up with a cash flow problem until the estate is wound up. • A pension annuity should be able to provide a steady income for the surviving spouse – choosing the right product is crucial to estate planning. Increasing expenses and inflation should be anticipated.

• The death of a partner who is not the breadwinner may also have considerable financial consequences for the remaining spouse, especially if the couple still has young children. Besides funeral expenses, the remaining parent may have to pay for things such as day care. • In the case of a family trust, the spouses should make sure that replacement trustees are mentioned in their will. Trustees are very important and both parties should agree on who the replacement trustees will be. A life partner is supposed to be exactly that – a partner for life. Sadly, life does not always pan out the way we had hoped and if you were to pass away, the future of your most beloved should be taken care of. Make sure to plan for the unexpected.

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As an independent financial services provider, we constantly strive to provide our clients with the most suitable financial advice and solutions tailored for their individual needs in every aspect of comprehensive financial planning. Our focus is to develop and protect your wealth by offering superior advice and transparent guidance for the purpose of estate planning, risk cover, investment planning, retirement provision and tax benefits. We also offer professional services in medical aids, legal services and short term insurance with attention to motor and household insurance, and specialised services in commercial, marine, aviation and personal liability insurance. We are equipped with a skilled team of administrative personnel committed to client service making use of the latest high-tech systems. We at Optimum Group set the standard for distinctive and efficient service.

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INSPIRATIONAL LIVING

SAVE ENERGY USE THE

Sun

Axel Powroznik of the solar provider, African Sun Energy, tells us more about the benefits of solar power and their business operations. How it all began All his life, my father worked on Eskom power stations and substations, so it was probably only natural that my brother and I would follow in his footsteps. After working 23 years in the electricity supply industry, I came to the conclusion that there were cleaner and more affordable ways to provide power. This urged me to continuously keep an eye out for the latest developments of solar programmes, both locally and overseas. A few years ago, I began my search for a partner and eventually found someone in Germany. Gerd Tschudowsky, my partner at African Sun Energy, has 15 years of experience in the supply of solar power in both Germany and other European countries. Our third partner, Mark Roux, who among other things is responsible for installation, also has 25 years of experience in the energy sector. Even if I have to say it myself – we are a great team!

Why solar power? Solar power has several advantages over electricity. Firstly, it is clean energy, something that is important for the environment and the health of our planet. Secondly, solar energy is cheaper than electricity. Figures show that the average household’s solar power accounts are 40% lower than those who use full-time electricity. Other benefits, of course, have to do with Eskom’s volatile supply of electricity in the past few years – a problem that is eliminated with the use of solar power. Not only are you stuck with Eskom’s load shedding, but even the smallest of issues at a power station or substation can leave you without any electricity for days on end, as was the case recently in Centurion, when copper cables were stolen. A huge advantage in our country is that South Africa averages 1 800 hours of sunshine per year, compared to a country like Germany, which enjoys only 900 hours of sunshine per year – and yet, Germany is the world’s largest consumer of solar power.

What do you need to know? Today, people are more informed about solar power, how it works and its benefits, than they were a few years ago. Previously, only a few people would ask me what “photovoltaic” means, but these days, I often hear this question while at a braai or at functions. My response to this question is usually that it is not as complicated as it sounds. My advice to people who are interested in finding out more about solar power is to find a reliable supplier. Such a person will be able to explain to you exactly how it works and what would be required to provide your home, farm or business with solar power. Also request a quote, as this will give you a better idea of the costs involved, allowing you to make a better and more informed decision. Where businesses are concerned, we are currently negotiating to finance power plants – something which we are very excited about! Businesses with high power bills will be able to benefit greatly from this development.

How much will the installation cost? The initial installation may seem expensive for the average household, but it will soon become evident that the investment was well worth every penny, especially when the costs are soon outweighed by the savings, after which you win all the way! Eskom has already begun to warn users that electricity costs will significantly increase over the next couple of years. So, if you were to project two or five years into the future, the savings that you enjoy could be major. The question is therefore not why are you installing solar power, but rather why have you not done it yet? After all, we know what lies ahead in the near future when it comes to the supply of electricity!

African Sun Energy’s goals and projects Our vision is simple: to provide South Africans with a more reliable alternative to electricity and to do so in a professional and ethical manner. In the few years of our existence, we have already built up quite the list of happy customers, ranging from homeowners to different sizes and types of businesses who have very advanced requirements when it comes to their power supply. We operate throughout South Africa and hopefully, will soon be providing our services to the neighbouring countries. 95% of the products we use are German and have already proved to be of the highest quality over the years in Europe and around the world.

Summary of work done by African Sun Energy: We were involved in Eskom’s first two solar farms in 2011 – the construction of 0.5MW ground mounted Tracker photovoltaic structures for Lethabo Power station and a 0.5MW fixed photovoltaic ground mounted system at Kendal Power station. Together with a sister company, we were also involved in the construction of solar farms in the Soutpan 30 Megawatt and Witkop also 30 megawatt areas in the Limpopo Province. To give you an idea of the size of the farms and the amount of work done – the farm was 60 hectares in size and required 15 000 sockets cast in concrete with 120 000 panels erected. What makes this system so unique is the way it operates. Named a “Tracker System”, it moves with the sun as it rises in the morning, following it to the west, and then moves back again into an eastern position, waiting for the sun to come up again. By using a tracker system that follows the sun, one can expect to get a 24% increase in production from the sun. The only drawback of this system is that regular maintenance has to be done to the movement parts. Currently, we are busy with the implementation of a 988kW solar farm at Schoeman Boerdery, located between Marblehall and Groblersdal, to become self-sufficient in the supply of electricity. This installation will be the biggest private installation in the Limpopo Province. With our company’s history, we are currently the 5th biggest installer in South Africa, which we are very proud of!

Homeowners and businesses who wish to find out more about solar power and if it can provide enough electricity for their needs are welcome to visit our website at: www.african-sun-energy.co.za. You are also welcome to contact Axel directly at axel@african-sun-energy.co.za or 082 224 4584, or to email Gerd at gerd@african-sun-energy.co.za to make an appointment. Our team is, as always, more than happy to assist you.

HEALTH & FITNESS

THE ARTICLE THAT OUGHT TO

MEN READ By Dr Surene Fourie

TAKE THE TEST Complete this self-assessment and if you answer yes to three or more questions, consider making an appointment for a male wellness check-up at our Clinic.

Do you have a decrease in strength and/or endurance? Do you often have a general lack of energy?

While at a lunch meeting recently, I was listening to a few women discussing their menopausal symptoms. For them, it was almost as if this milestone was some kind of victory. If only men would talk so freely about their ageing health, far more of our gents would realise that what they start to experience somewhere after their fortieth birthday is not career stress, but andropause. Yes, you heard right. Men too can experience a clinical syndrome similar to the female menopause, called andropause. But unlike women, this transition can take much longer and can start anywhere between the ages of 40 and 70. Andropause is characterised by a drop in the levels of the male hormone, testosterone. This can lead to a decline in physical and mental health, mood changes and irritability, lack of enjoyment, chronic tiredness, loss of motivation, and a decreased sex drive. The decline in testosterone levels can also contribute to health risks, such as cholesterol, heart disease and osteoporosis. Medical studies, however, have shown that by gradually replacing testosterone in selected healthy men, it can actually reverse some of the age-related problems, such as muscle weakness, osteoporosis, high cholesterol and low sex drive. It may even be beneficial for some men to begin with supplemental therapy while still in their 30s. Men usually find it difficult to talk about their symptoms, but should realise that all men will start to experience these symptoms at some point in their lives. By discussing this with a GP, tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis and treatment can be very successful in most men.

Do you have a decrease in your sex drive (libido)? Do you often feel irritable? Do you take longer to recover from exercise or do your injuries heal less quickly? Have you noticed a decreased enjoyment of life? Have you noticed a decline in your ability to participate in recreational activities? Have you noticed a change with your memory? Are your erections/ejaculations less strong? Do you have trouble getting a night of restful sleep? Is it difficult to get and stay in shape? Are you eating the same or even less and putting on weight? Do you feel that you are under chronic stress? Are you more easily frustrated than previously? Do you frequently suffer from joint pain or prolonged stiffness?

For more information contact Sablemed Medical Practice by calling (012) 808 1111

INTERNET

MARKETING ESSENTIAL FOR MODERN BUSINESSES

Businesses can no longer afford not to engage with customers online. People prefer the internet as an information source and companies ignoring the power of digital marketing lose their competitive edge.

ALLOCATE A PORTION OF YOUR BUDGET TO INTERNET ADVERTISING

Pretoria boasts over 667 000 Facebook users and around 68 000 Google+ users, but fewer than 7 000 Twitter users. Over 50% of marketers find many of their customers through social media platforms.

Internet advertising trends show that an average of 25% of advertising budgets is allocated to digital marketing. Local research should be the basis for any online and offline marketing in South Africa, which helps to clearly identify the target market and the geographic scope of the marketing efforts.

In South Africa, with its 9 million regular internet users, more people access the internet for information than reading the newspapers. Social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, are amongst the most popular online gathering places and many customers make buying decisions based on the social media profiles of businesses and recommendations by friends.

Every marketing strategy should also include the internet, with a focus on search engine marketing, social media and direct sponsored advertising, such as Google AdWords campaigns. These campaigns make it possible to get your marketing message on the first page of search results for keywords directly related to your advertisement. Search engine marketing entails articles, optimisation of your website to ensure that it is search engine friendly, and designing of the site for maximum retention value. Social media marketing focuses on the development of strategies to reach, interact and build trust with customers and fans. With careful planning and execution of social media advertising or event campaigns, you can reach your target audience at a fraction of the cost associated with television, newspaper, billboard and radio advertising. Doing all of the above can be time consuming and besides the process being ongoing, a bit of expertise in online marketing will certainly help to ensure a handsome return on your marketing spending. Partnering with an expert company to handle the digital marketing aspects of your advertising campaigns will help to focus attention on your core business, while expanding your company’s market and increasing brand exposure.

PARTNER WITH AN EXPERT ONLINE MARKETING COMPANY iLead Online is a well-established internet marketing firm located in Pretoria and has proven their expertise when they managed to beat various large South African agencies to win the 2014 Google “Spirit of Summer” competition, as the agency that generated the most leads during the competition period. Thus, if you want to maximise sales conversions and benefit from more direct sales online, choose iLead Online as your Google AdWords campaign managing company. With a third of internet users clicking on of the top three search results, the company makes it a priority to get client websites ranking on top for keywords relevant to their businesses and locations.

iLead Online, however, is but one of the companies in the iLead Group. The Group, under leadership of Johann Nortjé, includes the likes of:

iLead Branding iLead Design iLead Training

iLead Promo iLead Vids iLead Publishing

With the full spectrum of marketing, branding and business training covered, the company provides clients with innovative and turnkey marketing solutions, irrespective of the size of the campaigns. The iLead Group recognises that marketing and branding without showing interest in the potential of clients, sports teams and community interests will have limited success. They lead by example with signage of the company being visible from the N1, where their offices are located in the Lynnwood area, and through partnerships with leading sports teams. They have recently entered into a partnership with the SCOTT Factory Race team, headed by SA London Olympian Philip Buys and follow the progress of the team enthusiastically.

CONTACT ILEAD ONLINE TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS DEVELOP A SOLID ONLINE AND OFFLINE MARKETING AND BRANDING STRATEGY. +27 (12) 771 7640

www.ileadonline.co.za

HEALTH & FITNESS

CARDIO VS. DIET Cardio equals weight loss? Well yes, but if your diet is not up to scratch, you will not get into shape. No matter how much you sweat on the treadmill, if you do not burn more calories than you consume, you will not lose weight.

ost of us would like to think that we do not eat or drink too much, but sometimes a reality check is all we need.

The best way to do this, take a piece of paper and write down everything that you eat or drink over a seven-day period. That means every piece of food and every glass of cold drink/wine/beer/juice that you consume. Also look at the calories listed on the back of food packaging. Normally, they list calories per 100g and per serving size. This will give you a general idea of how many calories you consume (to convert calories to kilojoules, multiply it by 4.2). BREAKFAST AS AN EXAMPLE Wholewheat toast Bowl of Kellogg’s Cup of coffee Medium Apple

75 calories 80 calories 20 calories 69 calories

TOTAL CALORIES

244

To put all of this into perspective, I have listed a few activities indicating how many calories you burn. This is applicable to an individual, for instance, weighing 68kg and who performs the activity for 60 minutes.

CALORIE

CRUSHERS

Larger individuals (in terms of body weight) will burn more calories doing the same activity as compared to a smaller individual. This is because increased size requires more calories to do the same amount of work.

Mountain Biking Moderate Running Brisk Walking Circuit Training Boot Camp Tennis Golf (using power cart)

It varies from individual to individual, as we all have different metabolisms and hormonal profiles, regardless of our weight. In the case of our sample individual, who weighs 68kg, is 45 years old and relatively active, he/she would require more or less 1 700 calories per day to maintain their current weight and get through everyday activities. If the individual wants to lose weight, he/she should reduce their daily calories by at least 240, which gives the individual a new total intake of 1 460 calories. If you want to maintain or lose weight, just keep a close eye on what you consume each day and be ready to make adjustments where necessary. You don’t need to walk around with a calculator, but take note of what you eat and drink on a daily basis. Maybe you don’t need to train harder, just eat smarter!

496 calories 525 calories 222 calories 275 calories 578 calories 408 calories 204 calories

Bootcamp: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 06h00-07h00 At Gabbata Lodge Kameelfontein, Roodeplaat

Pilates: Monday & Thursday 16h00-17h00

Contact Brenda | 082 825 0366 | brenda01@iburst.co.za

EFC

Wood Maintenance

Kobus | 060 872 7219

Johan | 083 308 7789

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

Soulful SOUP W

hile doing research for my article, I came across a piece on the web that mentioned the book “Food in History” and my first year as a Home Economics student went flashing by. “Food in History” was my first step into the wonderful world of cooking and food, and I decided to share Maguelonne Toussaint-Samat words with you on the history of soup. Soup has become synonymous with winter in almost all households in South Africa. But have you ever wondered where this heart-warming comfort food had its origins? AS OLD AS THE HISTORY OF COOKING Food historians tell us that the history of soup is probably as old as the history of cooking itself and that the modern restaurant industry is based on soup. ”Restoratifs”, the former word for soups, (from which the word “restaurant” derives) were the first items served in public restaurants in 18th century Paris, followed by broth, bouillon and consommé. Classic French cuisine generated many of the soups we know today. If we just think about Russian Borscht, Italian Minestrone, French Onion Soup, Spanish Gazpacho, New England Chowder, Chinese Won Ton and South African “Boontjiesop”, it all comes back to one thing…soups were and are made according to local ingredients and taste. HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS Furthermore, the act of combining various ingredients in a large pot to create a nutritious, filling, easily digested, simple to make and serve food, makes it a perfect choice for rich and poor, young and old, healthy and sick people. BEST INGREDIENTS Remember that a good soup is only as good as the ingredients that go into its making. As such, one has to take care to use only the best and freshest ingredients, instead of, as is often the case, the leftovers from previous meals.

I hope this article opens up a whole new “Home Made” world (not a tin) of soup for you!

Fresh Mangetout Soup (6 – 8 servings)

On my visit to Mauritius in 2005 we were served this delicious version of the old-time favourite, pea soup. TOP TIP

Use green split peas if fresh mangetout is out of season.

Ingredients: 1kg fresh mangetout, cleaned and stringed 10ml olive oil 4 spring onions, finely chopped 5ml basil 5ml ginger 5ml fresh mint, chopped (optional) 700ml chicken stock 500ml milk/low fat milk 250ml bacon, chopped and fried (optional) Salt and pepper to taste.

Preparation: • Heat the olive oil in a saucepan. • Sauté the mangetout and onion until onions are transparent. • Add the basil, ginger and mint (optional). • If green split peas are used, add at this stage. • Add the stock and bring to the boil. • Reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. • Remove from the heat. • In a food processor, puree the soup until smooth. • Return the soup to the saucepan • Season with salt and pepper • Stir in the milk, and then add the bacon (optional). • Cover and simmer for 5 minutes to develop the taste. • Serve piping hot with whole wheat rolls.

TROOSKOS COMFORT FOOD

For frozen and fresh take home lasagne, chicken pie. bobotie filled pancakes and much much more!

Engela van Eyssen C | 082 388 0502 engela@justlocal.co.za

THE COMFORT FOOD THAT STOOD THE

test of time

Tuscany Bean Soup (4-6 servings)

This is a very light soup. It works wonderfully with rich accessories, like croutons or grilled cheese bread.

Ingredients:

Old-Fashioned Bean Soup (4-6 servings)

The original recipe uses lard to fry the onion in and cream/milk as ingredients. For a healthier option olive oil and milk or low-fat milk are used as ingredients.

Ingredients: 500ml cooked speckled beans 1 onion, chopped 10ml olive oil 250g bacon, chopped 3 potatoes, diced 1 litre beef stock 2ml turmeric 250ml milk/low-fat milk 10ml vinegar Salt and pepper to taste.

HEALTHY CHOICE

Preparation: • • • • • • • •

Fry the onion in the oil until transparent. Add the bacon and fry until crisp. Mix the onion and beans with the remaining ingredients, except the cream/milk and vinegar. Simmer until the potatoes are soft. Mash the beans and potatoes. Stir in the milk and heat through. Add the vinegar. Serve hot with whole wheat bread.

1 2 125ml 5ml 1 litre 250ml 250ml 250ml 45ml 125ml 50ml

medium red onion, chopped garlic cloves, crushed peppadews, strips of red bell peppers or sun dried tomatoes olive oil vegetable stock cooked small white beans or 1 x 410g tin of butter beans cooked red kidney beans or 1 x 410g tin of red kidney beans baby leeks, stems and leaves cut into pieces white wine fresh coriander, chopped bean sprouts Salt and course black pepper to taste. You can also add smoked sausages to taste.

Preparation: • Sauté the onion, garlic, peppadews/bell peppers/sun dried tomatoes in olive oil over a medium heat. • When the onion is transparent, add the vegetable stock and the rest of the ingredients, except the wine and half of the coriander. • Cook for 20 minutes or until all of the flavours have been combined. • Add the wine, the rest of the coriander and smoked sausages (optional), and cook for a further 5 minutes. • Add salt and pepper to taste. • Serve hot with grilled cheese bread or croutons.

Enjoy your comfort soup this winter! Source: “Food in History” by Maguelonne Toussaint-Samat and translated by Anthea Bell [Barnes & Noble Books: New York] 1992 (p. 177).

By Engela van Eyssen

SPORT NEWS

HOW TO PLAY THE

{ PEBBLE

ROCK } GOLF COURSE

lub Manager, Gavin Smit, shares valuable tips on mastering some of the challenges at the unique Bushveld links exchange golf course in Roodeplaat. If you haven’t played the Pebble Rock Golf Course yet, you’re missing out! This links exchange course, located in the prestigious Pebble Rock Golf & Bushveld Estate, is located 25 km from Pretoria CBD. For most golfers, this is a short distance to drive if the wish to enjoy a splendid and tricky round of golf. For residents of the Roodeplaat region, the course and its clubhouse, though fairly new, are almost legendary. According to Gavin, the 2007 Rugby World Cup Winning Springboks and various Blue Bulls players have on occasion played at the course, in addition to a host of celebrities and well-known South African musicians. Gavin also mentions that the “GNGU Junior Tournament, Curro Nationals and our own Pebble Rock Championships have been hosted at Pebble Rock”.

Gavin’s Tips for Playing According to Gavin, “The 13th hole is the signature hole. Short par 3, playing uphill with a very difficult green, anything above the hole will make you pay! The 6th hole is the most difficult and although not very long, it challenges the golfer to be very accurate over water from the tee, with a second shot that is uphill to the green with a bunker protecting the green on the right. This is a par 4.” He continues, “The 9th hole is the longest of the par 5s; a perfectly placed tee shot misses the water on the left. The distance is 515 metres, stroke 3, with bunkers on both sides of the fairway and a dam on the right side of the fairway.” With water obstacles at no fewer than 11 of the 18 holes, the player can expect it to challenge every golf skill learned, especially during the wet season. It is a links exchange course, specifically designed by Johan Visagie to provide a test at every hole.

Gavin challenges all golfers hoping to put a hole-in-one on their record to play the course...

The only time that the golfer plays on a completely level surface is at the tee-off boxes, so the course calls for some fitness, though a golf cart goes a long way in reducing the physical effort. According to Gavin’s knowledge, Robert Gouws is the current course record holder with a score of 62 since 2012 and again in 2013. It certainly sets a high benchmark for other experienced golfers. Gavin challenges all golfers hoping to put a hole-in-one on their record to play the course...“On the 11th hole we have a promotion running; a golfer scoring a hole-in-one on this hole wins 10 cases of Wellington & Cola.” He believes that an experienced golfer should be able to make a hole-in-one on the course. He explains, “BP Viljoen has made 2 hole-in-ones on the 13th. It happens occasionally that golfers score hole-in-ones.”

Pebble Rock is a dream course with its typical bushveld ambience, the occasional impala and rolling fairways. The course, rated as Par 71 by the North Gauteng Golf Union, although challenging, facilitates all handicaps. Pebble Rock Properties (Pty) developed and opened the course as part of the Pebble Rock Golf & Bushveld Estate in December 2005. The Clubhouse & Country Club, which opened in March 2006, offers the visitor a relaxing atmosphere and various facilities suited for golf days and functions. Fully licensed and with locker rooms, as well as shower facilities, the design and layout cater to the needs of golf players.

The course features a well-stocked pro shop where friendly staff members assist in bookings and any golfing needs that players might have. Featuring a stunning view of the putting green, in addition to the 9th and 18th green, the shop also sells apparel from top golfing brands.

»» Take the challenge Contact the Pebble Rock Pro Shop at 012 808 2242 or 012 808 0883 for bookings and membership information, or Gavin Smit at 083 300 6871 for golf and Clubhouse enquiries.

Visit www.pebblerock.co.za

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For on site analyses and problem solving discussion call Chris Schutte 076 072 2307

chris@limpopocorp.co.za

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COMMUNITY NEWS

What a great privilege it was to be able to be part of such a group of dynamic women from our beautiful Roodeplaat area. Inspired by Lizhel Schutte, the Roodeplaat Women’s Business

Roodeplaat

Women’s BUSINESS BREAKFAST

Breakfast allowed us to bring women from the area together, so that we could have a heart-to-heart about the past year and the prospects for the year to come.

SAVE

THE DATE

I believe that every woman – whether she is a career woman, homemaker, mom or friend – makes a difference in someone else’s life and with this event, we are able to celebrate being the captivating women that we are!

Come along and share a little bit of yourself with us and enjoy a champagne breakfast...

23rd OCTOBER 2015 AT THE BLADES HOTEL Champagne Breakfast will be served

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SOUL & SPIRIT

THE DOXA DEO

MOLOTO ROAD

PrayerWalk

fter reading once again in the newspapers about Moloto Road and how “the road of death” claimed more lives, we decided to do something about it.

Jesus said:

I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me JOHN 14 : 6

As a church, Doxa Deo wants to establish God’s reign in our city. We believe in city transformation and the most effective way to make an impact in our area and community is through prayer. It just became unacceptable to us that we have to live with the fact that “the road of death” is in our area. To address this matter, our congregation gathered on the 7th of March at 8 a.m. at the Doxa Deo North Campus and prayed together. Afterwards, we journeyed out on a “Prayer Drive”, as we called it. We spoke life over “the road of death” by strategically placing 14 cement blocks with John 14:6 engraved on them, starting from the intersection of Sefako Makgatho Drive (old Zambezi Drive) and the R573 KwaMhlanga Road, up to Moloto Road. We truly believe that this act of faith can save many lives. As such, we will continue to pray, trusting to see a change for the better on this road and to all who use it on a day-to-day basis. By Riaan de Wet

“

I don’t care how well someone knows the road. There are far too many unnecessary accidents. Think about the people who use the road daily. I don’t care if you drive a taxi or Mercedes – obey the rules of the road, even if you did an advanced driving course. Drive within the speed limit. The extra three minutes you win by speeding are simply not worth it.

Kurt Darren

COMMUNITY NEWS

GLIMMER OF

hope

eadlines reading “Two killed and four injured in headon collision on R573” are all too common when it comes to the notorious Moloto Road that stretches all the way from Mpumalanga to Pretoria. Over 70 people have died or sustained serious injuries in accidents along the R573 over the past year.

The road, covering 120 km with well over 240 km of feeder roads, earned a spot in a German television series on “The Most Dangerous Roads in the World” not because of dangerous cliffs, but because of the high accident rate associated with human error. Reckless and drunk driving, speeding, head-on collisions and irresponsible overtaking, careless pedestrians crossing the road, potholes and over-usage by large vehicles are contributing factors. Stricter law enforcement is necessary to address the human factor, but for the most part, the law is only enforced consistently when it comes to speeding. The second part of the problem lies with the road conditions and lack of maintenance. With over 35 000 daily commuters, it is one of the heaviest used provincial roads in the country.

The R573 has been the centre of discussion after every major road incident and has been dubbed the nickname “Road of Death”.

FOR ‘ROAD OF DEATH’

Up until now, for residents along this treacherous stretch of road, there seemed to be no hope with municipalities and provinces not wanting to take responsibility for the upgrading and policing of the R573. Hope was renewed when transport Minister Dipuo Peters signed over the Moloto Road & Rail Project to the Passenger Rail Agency (PRASA) in October 2014. Ms Dipuo Peters announced the implementation of the integrated rapid rail solution in her speech at the Africa Road Safety Seminar held in Cape Town in August 2014. The R34 billion Moloto Corridor project is aimed at the improvement of the R573 and the development of a railway line to carry thousands of commuters and thus reduce the number of busses on the road. Critics of the railway project noted that with an average of 35 000 commuters daily, the railway project will not be economically feasible as it will require around 100 000 commuters daily to be economically sustainable. A PRASA feasibility study indicated that the capital layout for infrastructure development for the rail corridor will come to around R20 billion, with approximately R4.5 billion needed for improvement of the road conditions and the roads feeding into the R573. Another R10 billion will be needed for the fleet.

Government has awarded R1.1 billion, as announced during the 2015 Budget Speech, to the upgrading of

the heavily used road. Upgrading and improvement beyond the approved amount will be subject to next year’s Government budget allocation. Minister Nhlanhla Nene announced in the Budget Speech that the PRASA R53 billion decade renewal programme is now officially in progress with 528 train coaches expected to be delivered during the next three years.

pumalanga Premier David Mabuza provided extensive motivation for the Moloto Development Corridor in his State of the Province Address on the 27th of February 2015. According to Mabuza, the Moloto Development Corridor will be an important catalyst for economic growth and much needed job creation in the province, with specific mentioning of the Dr JS Moroka and Thembisile Hani municipalities. According to him, the project will attract private sector involvement along the corridor, which will also stimulate enterprise development. Communities, however, shouldn’t get overexcited by the prospect of speedy upgrading, as the planned railway and improvements will take years. It, of course, also means road works on the already overburdened stretch for the next few years.

By Isebell Gauché

According to the Treasury’s response “Moloto Corridor: Information for the Select Committee on Appropriations in Response to Questions Raised by Mpumalanga in their Provisional Mandate on the 2014 Division of Revenue”, the upgrading will have to include intersection capacity improvement, the widening of bridges, upgrading of storm water and draining structures, addition of lanes and paved shoulders, as well as the improvement of sight distances. Selected intersections will require sufficient lighting, and passing and climbing lanes must be added. Illegal and unsafe accesses must be closed and bus bays upgraded. In addition, upgrades must be made to allow for pedestrian safety in the urban areas. A weighbridge and testing centre are also required. The Minister’s Office and PRASA could not be reached for comment at the time of printing.

CREATIVE WRITING

I’ve never been so excited since I found out that… A short-story by

Angelene van Rooyen Beautiful flowers all around, Rainbows in the sky, Colourful, shiny little fairies that fly. Waterfalls, meadows and sunshine, No place could be more perfect, Than my own fairy wonderland.

I wish I could… “Angelene! What are you dreaming about this time?” My teacher’s voice shattered my perfect daydream. Sadly, I am called back to plain old boring reality. “She is living her fairy fantasy again ma’am!” Billy laughed. “Yeah, fairies aren’t real, stupid!” Johnny teased. They high-fived and then everybody laughed at me. “Okay, that’s enough class. Remember your homework and see you tomorrow!” Miss Rautenbach said. As quickly as I could, I packed my bag and ran out of the classroom, embarrassed, with my eyes tearing up. I ran… to my place. My place of freedom, freedom to dream and just be me. My corner in the woods behind my house… Where the trees hang low, Where flowers grow, Where just I go. Whenever I am there, time stands still. As I was sitting there, feeling sorry for myself, I was wondering why my friends wouldn’t join my fantasy. I caught a glimpse of something in the crack of the tree. Something I had never seen before. At first I didn’t want to look, but then my curiosity snapped me out of my pity.

While drying my tears, I got up and what I found surprised me. I was a little disappointed to find a pair of old blue reading glasses. I wondered who had left them behind. While thinking, I cleaned them with my sleeve. As I looked through the glasses to see if they were clean, I couldn’t believe my eyes! I fell back in shock. I wiped my eyes and looked again, but the picture I saw was still the same. I couldn’t believe it; it looked just like my daydream. I thought my imagination was playing tricks on me, so I hid the glasses and went home. The next day at school, I couldn’t think of anything else, just those blue glasses. When school was out, I rushed to my corner to see if the blue glasses were still there, and so they were in the same place that I had hid them. I put the glasses on again and it was the same picture. To my surprise, I saw a little sparkly face, looking at me from behind a flower. This was unreal, but I didn’t want to leave. It was paradise. Splashes of colour, sparkles and golden bright sunshine. I was mesmerised. The fairy carefully flew closer to me and I couldn’t believe how small and fragile she was. She looked at me, smiled and said: “We’ve been waiting for you.” I was confused, yet interested in what she had said. “Come! There is no time!” She turned around and flew forward. I followed her and didn’t know what to expect. She led me to a big tree and stopped. She turned around, flew towards me and said,

“Our fairy lights are dying because we have a shortage of fairy dust.” I didn’t understand. “How is there a shortage of fairy dust?” I asked. “Come with me”, she said. She took me inside the tree and led me to the queen fairy. I had never seen anything so beautiful. Her dress was a light pink colour and soft as silk. Her hair was shinier than diamonds. She was perfect!

“Angelene!” she said, “we have been waiting for you.” I was a bit freaked out! Why was everybody waiting for me, and how did they know my name? “I know you must be a bit confused at this time, but you are here because you are unique. What I am about to tell you is the fairies’ biggest secret. Our fairy lights are dying because we don’t have much fairy dust left. You see, everyone thinks that fairy dust comes from flowers, but the truth is, we wipe it off rhino horns. Poachers are killing all of the rhinos and if it goes on at this rate, fairyland will be no more… At first, fairy dust came from unicorn horns, but poachers killed them all. Now we collect it from rhino horns. If rhinos become extinct, we have nothing left.” “What can I do, I am just a little girl?” I asked. “You will know what to do”, she said with confidence. I saw the hope in her eyes, but got scared and took off the glasses. How could someone so wise, so great, depend on me? I am only a child. I had to figure it out, so I went home. I couldn’t sleep that night. All I heard was a voice saying: “Stop the rhino poaching!” over and over again, and then I knew what to do. The next day was a Saturday and I decided to make a bunch of flyers to spread the word. I got on my bike and spread them everywhere. On Monday at school, I went to the principle and I asked his permission to speak to the whole school. When they heard my idea, they thought it was ridiculous and crazy. I didn’t know what else to do, so I went back to the queen fairy to tell her what had happened. “It will take time, keep trying” she said. I was at school, busy doing my work, when Billy and Johnny started teasing me again, “You poor little girl, you are always dreaming too big!” Johnny said. “Yeah! She can talk the talk, but she can’t walk the walk!” Billy laughed.

Illustration by Mieke Bolhuis

I knew I had to get them on my side; their father was the mayor, so maybe he could use his influence to help me. “I need your help”, I said. “Yeah, and then we could have a tea party with fairies!” Johnny said sarcastically. When I got home, I immediately went to the corner. I put on my glasses and rushed to the queen. “Hello your majesty, I would like to ask your permission to let somebody else look through the blue glasses?” I told her what happened and she gave me her permission. I called Billy and Johnny, and asked them to come over. I took them to the corner to show them the blue glasses. They laughed and I could see by the look on their faces, they thought I was crazy. I showed them the fairy world and they were speechless. They thought it was a joke, until they met the queen and she explained everything to them. “Angelene, I am really sorry, I had no idea!” Billy said. “This is amazing, you are amazing”, Johnny said blushing. “Okay…” I said, feeling uncomfortable. “Now you know, do you think you can help me?” I asked. “I will go ask my dad tonight, I am sure he can do something!” Johnny said. They went home and told their dad everything, and asked for his help. He agreed to help me. He launched a “SAVE THE RHINO” project, and promised to publish my story in the local newspaper with the heading “SAVE THE RHINO”.

It was the most exciting time of my life. I had discovered fairies and managed to save both them and the rhinos from going extinct!

SCHOOL NEWS

Some call it fate and others call it destiny. All I know is that it is part of God’s plan for my life. I spent most of my holidays on my grandfather’s farm, not too far from where Curro Roodeplaat is situated. On plot 105 Leeufontein, I learned to drive tractor at the age of 9, to shoot and to hunt guineafowl, but most importantly it was there where I developed a love for the outdoors and speciﬁcally the bushveld. I am currently doing my masters degree in Education management and leadership at the University of Pretoria (TUKS of Niks). I’m married to Nelmarie, who is a medical doctor and currently specializing in Radiology and we are blessed with a two year old little girl – Mila. As the FET phase head of Curro Roodeplaat, my ﬁrst priority is academics. For me it is not just the 100 % pass rate, but it is to make sure that every child that walk those corridors and sit in our classes, get the opportunity to realize their professional dreams. School as we know it will change dramatically in the next decade, not only in our country, but around the world. It is not just about the use of technology, but also about the how and what, that we teach. My mission is to ensure that Curro Roodeplaat stay in the forefront with these changing trends. My education philosophy is simple: I look at each child and realize that there is a parent that love that child just as much as I love mine, unconditionally, and that they just want the best for that child. Mr Izak Nagel, Nelmarie & Mila

I am looking forward to this season of my professional life as well as the new friendships that will inevitably be form. It’s good to be home

-Izak Nagel

Congratulations Class of 2014 100 % Pass R ate 73 % University Exemption 24 Distinctions Congratulations to

Jarryd Gough! No 1 in Curro Group for TOURISM!

Congratulations to the following:  Junior Victrix Ludorum – Perfect Ncube  Senior Victrix Ludorum – Odette Steenkamp  Senior Victor Ludorum – Ruben Koekemoer

Perfect, Odette & Ruben

SCHOOL NEWS

Laerskool Die Poort (012) 8080 820

Dit is ‘n voorreg om ‘n kaalvoet Poortjie te wees.

P O O R T J I E S Mnr . Pienaar Hoof : Laerskool Die Poort Mnr Peet Pienaar is in Nelspruit (tans Mbombela) gebore en het aan die Afrikaans Hoër Seunsskool gematrikuleer . Hy studeer aan die Universiteit van Pretoria en begin sy loopbaan as onderwyser by Laerskool Wonderboom -Suid . Hy word op vroeë ouderdom hoof van Laerskool Skuilkrans en in die jaar 2002 vereer hy ons met sy teenwoordigheid as hoof by Laerskool Die Poort .

Mnr . Pienaar is ‘n gebore leier en handhaaf ‘n oopdeur -beleid by Die Poort . Hy is ‘n hartlike mens wat elke kind, ouer en onderwyser met respek en deernis behandel . Die skool het onder leiding van Mnr . Pienaar geweldig ontwikkel en van krag tot krag gegaan. Ons hier by die Poort sien uit na ‘n blink toekoms saam met ‘n hoof met dryfkrag, empatie en visie!

SCHOOL NEWS

School News

Laerskool Kameelfontein ONS WIL U GRAAG IN DIE VOLGENDE PAAR UITGAWES VOORSTEL AAN ONS SKOOLHOOF EN ‘N PAAR GESINNE IN ONS SKOOL.

Mnr Johan van Staden - HOOF VAN L/S KAMEELFONTEIN SEDERT 2006 Matrikuleer 1976 (H/s Ellisras) THOD (NKP) BA.Ed 1989 (Unisa) B.Ed Hon 1993 (Unisa) Skoolbestuur Dip. (SACE) 2010 Ek het bykans een derde van die skool se bestaan hier deurgebring. Ek begin in 1985 as jong wiskunde-onderwyser en gaan deur al die moontlike range vanaf onderwyser, koshuisvader, departementshoof en uiteindelik tot skoolhoof met ingang 2006. So leer mens deur ondervinding al die fasette van die skoolwerk ken. Twee van my drie pragtige kinders is ook hier gebore. Ons het baie lief en leed hier ervaar. So, dat ek en my vrou Laerskool Kameelfontein “geword” het.

Dit gaan goed op Kameelfontein omdat daar die afgelope honderd en drie jaar ‘n soliede fondasie gelê is. Aan die werklike Bouer van ons skool, ons Hemelse Vader, is ons al ons dank verskuldig. Ons besef steeds ons totale afhanklikheid vir die toekoms met ons oë na bo gerig. Ontmoet Henk en Zelda Wolmarans en hulle vier spruite – Charlé, Johanni, Carlien en Daniel. Hulle woon in Leeuwfontein Estate. Henk voltooi sy studies M Ing (Bio-mediese Ingenieurswese). B Hons (Elektroniese Ingenieurswese) en B Eng. Zelda studeer B Kommunikasiepatologie. Albei voltooi hul studies by Universiteit van Pretoria. Henk is ‘n sakeman, wat Africaudio Automation, Beheerstelsel ontwerp het. Hy is betrokke by die bou en implementering van outomatiseringstelsels; voorheen het hy gewerk as bio-mediese ingenieur met spesialisveld kogliêre inplanterings. Zelda is ‘n Spraaken Taalterapeut Oudioloog. Op ons vraag waarom hulle kinders in L/s Kameelfontein is, was hulle antwoord: Laerskool Kameelfontein voel soos ‘n “put van lewende water” vir ons kinders, waar drukvrye kindwees nog moontlik is; waar elke kind en gesin raakgesien, gewaardeer en ontwikkel word vir elkeen se eie unieke sterkpunte, waar geleenthede geskep word op akademiesesport- en kultuurvlak om uit te blink op elke kind se eie unieke sterkpunte en dit haal die druk af en maak die las op die kinders lig. Omdat die personeel die kinders regtig ken en weet wat elkeen se sterkpunte is, word die geleenthede wat vir hulle geskep word om te presteer, plekke wat ooreenstem met hulle natuurlike talent en aanleg en dit kom vir hulle amper ‘vanself’ . Dit moet net geslyp en afgerond word by die skool. Omdat die personeel die kinders ken, word hierdie talente oor jare geslyp om na die 7 jaar wat hulle hier was, ‘n afgeronde kind met gesonde selfvertroue hoërskool toe te stuur, met ‘n arsenaal van spontane sorgvrye kleintydherinneringe aan skool. Ontmoet vir Ben en Liesl de Kock en hulle kinders Christi en Ruan Toerismebestuur en Honns in Fin Bestuur; in haar eie woorde: “Geseënde ma en tuisteskepper”. Hulle sê: Einde 2012 het ons gesin die gejaagde lewe in Centurion agtergelaat vir ‘n kwaliteitlewe buite die stad in die bos, met die natuur op ons voorstoep. Min het ons besef dat die Here ons stuur na die gemeenskap van ‘n klein plaasskooltjie met ‘n hartklop vir Jesus wat ons lewens onomkeerbaar sou verander. Poppekas, laat aande met Kameelfeeste, damestee’s, tv opname, kultuurfeeste, bidgroepie, Moedersdae en vele geleenthede maak dat ons gou diep kaalvoetspore trap by ons geliefde skool. Hier leer ons kinders van verskille en dat jy self kies om die beste van elke situasie te maak. Die lewe word in perspektief geplaas en ons leer help, saam-werk, saam-lag, saam-huil, saam-sweet, saamklippekou en saam pluk ons die vrugte van harde werk en BID. Almal ken mekaar en almal sit ‘n handjie by. Saam maak ons ‘n plan om enige iets te maak werk. Vir ons is die skool meer as ‘n goeie opvoeding met briljante, toegewyde onderwysers & ‘n besige kalender, dis ‘n veilige, gebalanseerde en gesonde omgewing waar ons kinders kan groei en vorm tot die Skeppingsdoel waarvoor hulle gemaak is. Ons is miskien ‘n handjievol, die hele skool so groot soos ‘n koor, maar ons sing dieselfde deuntjie uit volle bors. Dit gee nie om waar jy vandaan kom nie....ons almal “Reik Hoog”! Uitleg van die artikel gedoen deur Lamton 012 327 1836

Harcourts Zambezi T 012 548 5730 C 082 891 3055 E zambezi@harcourts.co.za View www.harcourtszambezi.co.za

TAKING REAL ESTATE SERVICE TO NEW HEIGHTS.

Left to right: Rassie, Mara, Derick and Nadia

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Lovely family house with pool and manicured garden.

Lovely family home with entertainment area and pool.

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This house in Pebble Rock offers 4 bedrooms of which two are en-suite, and a 3rd bathroom for the other 2 bedrooms. There are 3 living areas, with a big lounge.

This house in Pebble Rock offers you 3 bedrooms, and 3 bathrooms. There are 3 living areas and a entertainment area which leads onto a sparkling pool.

This house offers 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms of which 4 are en suite. Furthermore offers a scullery, pantry, separate laundry, dbl garage and more.

Beautiful Cozy Double Story House in Leeuwfontein Estates for sale. The building consists of 5 bedrooms 4 en suite and guest cloak room

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R3,030,000

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R2,700,000

Sable Hills Waterfront Estate.

Leeuwfontein Estates

This Beautiful Family Home in Sable Hills is for sale and not to be missed. It consists of 3 bedrooms main en suite a family bathroom and more

This beautiful house with breath taking view consists of 4 bedrooms, main en suite and 2 family bathrooms as well as a guest cloak room

6 vacant stands available with water and power points. No transfer duties payable. Come build your dream house.

Bargain of the year. This property is 2.2 ha in extent with sound security in place. No dirt road to travel and close to a shopping centre.

Mara 083 291 1305

Web NZI8972

Rassie 082 890 1445

Sable Hills

R2,700,000

Sable Hills

Derdepoort

Web NZI22746

R2,500,000

Vacant stands for sale in Kameeldrift East, Pretoria.

Web NZI22337

R8,550,000

House for sale in Rynoue, Pretoria.

Sable Hills

Web NZI9683

R3,680,000

Derdepoort property for sale.

Sable Hills Waterfront Estate.

Immaculate house with stunning view of the dam!

Beautiful family home in Sable Hills Waterfront estate.

1.24ha stand with 3 bedrooms ( main bedroom en suite), 2 bathrooms, study, TV room with fire place, lounge, dinning room and much more

This beautiful well-priced home in Sable Hills is for sale. The building consists of 3 bedrooms, 2 en suites and a guest cloak room.

Do not miss out on this bargain buy of this beautiful house with green area and dam view. This four bedroom house has a extra guest flatlet

Double story, earthy modern house with 4 x bedrooms. Stunning view at the bush where you can daily see free roaming game and Giraffes.

Rassie 082 890 1445

Nadia 082 359 1091

Web NZI9355

Web NZI22457

Web NZI22285

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Experts in home finance.