The Galaxy News - November 2017 by The Galaxy Newspaper

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8 A's and being placed in the ‘Top 15’ students from the Pietermaritzburg class of 2010. It was then that I realised the power of the mind and discipline towards a goal.”

will be on 16 December 2017. Accompanying him on stage will be the likes of The Voice Finalist Freddy Lalendle, Jessica Martins and well known Pietermaritzburg band Many Thereafter, Nishalin pursued to study Mechanical Engineering and after several Moore. Tickets will be sold at R100 at the door as well as extremely difficult years and semesters from Nishalin himself. A shuttle of continuous failure in most things he attempted, persisted and persevered. “I service from a location in PMB, This 24 year old lad, raised in eventually graduated in 2016 and this which is yet to be confirmed, Pietermaritzburg is known for his insane was the year that everything changed. will be provided to all attendees beats and use of one the most respected More and more did I realise my to the Albert Falls Lodge. and traditional eastern instruments, the capabilities and did I find it in me to find Tabla. my niche in music, the music within me See page 2 for more... needed to be let out!” “As a child I was very shy, always one who had trouble expressing himself and In April 2016, after multiple how I felt about several issues in society. 'co-incidences' as Nishalin would like to I knew form a very young age that I’d call it, he performed at the all famous 360 Prince Alfred Street, Cnr Boshoff St have to contribute to the upliftment of and Open-Mic gig, Music In the Hills, to T: 033 342 8264 | C: 083 231 7264 my people, planet and animals and so, at try it out, just for the fun of it he said. E: admin@eagleautosales.co.za age 10 I became a vegetarian. This was my first real encounter of discovering “After this gig, the audience was W: www.eagleautosales.co.za who I am and what I want to do for the astonished, they've never seen or heard world.” a Tabla or a Cajon and they wanted more. So, I continued playing there Whilst still in Primary School, Nishalin 2012 Audi A4 2011 Hyundai I20 2012 Ford Figo every few weeks until realised that I was attended private Sanskrit lessons. “One addicted. I haven't stopped ever since, I afternoon during lessons, the teacher now know what it’s like to find your own noted how I would always be tapping the sound, to find your niche or gap in an desk and making beats whenever I industry.” could. It was then that he suggested I take up Tabla lessons, which I “90% of the audiences I have performed confidently followed through with over to have never heard of or listened to the next few years.” music from these percussion R114 999,00 R169 999,00 R89 999,00 instruments which inspires me to break 1,8T, 6 Speed, 123 000Km’s, 1,4i Auto, 122 000Km’s, 1,4 Ambiente, 71 000Km’s, It was then that he realised this was the social, racial and traditional Immaclate FSH Immaclate FSH Immaculate, FSH more than just creating a beat and that stereotypes and barriers within our this is a passion. He knew that in order communities. I want to create music that to become more accustomed to his brings people from different walks of life 2010 Mazda 3 2011Volkswagen Caddy 2013VolkswagenJetta destiny he would need to recreate together.” sounds that were peculiar and not just replicate what he was being taught. There are no limits to what he plays. Thus far Nishalin has played a number “Although this passion had me kicked of genre’s. To name a few, he has played out of several classes throughout my Township Jazz, Kwaito, academic years, it helped me find Alternative Rock and Indie Folk, something that inspired me to constantly Psychedelic Blues with two very do better and find ways to express traditional instruments that more and R139 999,00 R129 999,00 R179 999,00 myself.” more, people are beginning to love!

Engineer Graduate but a true musician at heart. Nishalin Pillay has taken Percussion music to a whole new level with his unique sound and talent in and throughout the country.

“My high school years exposed me to the ambition within me and I'd played most sports available at my high school, Carter High. I fell in love with karate and bodybuilding which lead to me doing both on a competitive level till 2013. During high school I'd rarely play my Tabla but it was always around whenever I needed it.”

Months go by and more bands and artists have approached Nishalin to join them for show or two and thus far he has headlined at White Mountain Festival, played at Splashy Fen 2017, The Michaelhouse Music Festival and East Coast Radio Concert Comedy Craft Festival, alongside acts like Mafikizolo and Ladysmith Black Mambazo and collaborated with over 100 musicians within a short space of a year. Something every musician dreams of.

Barely passing Grade 11, his teachers encouraged him to push a little harder for his final year because the reality of it would be that he would fail his final year. This December Nishalin will be hosting “So, I pulled up my socks in Matric and the first ever concert at the Albert Falls achieved the DUX award topping it with Lodge and Country Estate. The event

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Page 2

Continued from Page 1... “It’s very rare that one hears of a percussionist hosting a live show or concert. This is what makes it even more unique to me apart from it being my very own show. With 250 seats available I really look forward to the attendance and cant wait to let people hear what I have been up to in the past few months. I can’t wait to break stereotypes and encourage people to have an ear for all genres of music. I really want people to enjoy music the way I do.”

Something of which I highly anticipate.”

“The balance between Music and Engineering has greatly impacted the plans I have career wise.”

“All the drums I play are unorthodox in the genres of music I play them in and yet it works so well. I feel as if the SA music industry doesn't fairly represent the demographics of the country, and I'm here to change that . It's only limits in our minds that tell us that the tabla doesn't belong in Kwaito or Psychedelic Blues Rock or several other

I will be following through with a few products and a new business venture within the Green Technology Market come 2018. These services or products of which have not been introduced in South Africa. I also intend to expand my music career as much as I can.” “I don't enjoy performing solo but I tried something out of my comfort zone this year - SAs Got Talent. I got through to the top 100 which led to the coolest radio personality and Deejay, DJ Fresh asking me to collaborate with him in the future.

“I’d previously play at Ashrams and Temples - your more traditional styles of tabla playing but never had I ever performed at a music venue typical to audiences accustomed to commercial western music and the greatest thrill of it all is people love it, I love it and I am not a usual sound.”

genres that I've used it in. SA has an entire, diverse library of cultures to refer to, to create art and we need to acknowledge that. As far as beats in most songs I hear that are commercial, they're too mechanical and lack an organic feel to it in my opinion.” “My goal is to be the most versatile percussionist. More importantly music has allowed to thus far, in my very short music career 18 months to positively influence people and make a difference, to break barriers. I want to use my beats to first get the attention of a nation, thereafter we can discuss issues and talk about how we can improve our community ,county and to travel the world through music.” “We often find it so easy to pass judgement and its only until we put our resources into

perspective and evaluate what we can get from it that we know its true potential. People generally ask if they are going to list oriental musical but once they hear the sounds my instruments produce they are in awe. People don’t realise that we can make everything beautiful and make music from everything.” “I currently do not offer any private lessons for the Tabla at the moment. I feel that there is a lot more that I haven’t learnt yet therefore, I would ideally like to learn more and thereafter offer my talents to the community and all those willing to learn. However I have been hosted at a few workshops in and around PMB, namely for popular, St Charles College to demonstrate the more percussionary view of what they call, World Music.” “My advice for to all, especially kids, is to just find your passion! Parents, encourage your kids to find their passion. When you find it then, universe just provides everything you need. Especially when you’re doing what you love. Let your passion not just help you, but help others too.”

WHAT’S ON? 1. Foodpak Festive Fair

4. PMB Comedy Night

On 1 December Foodpak will host its annual festive fair. Also on offer is Night Xmas Shopping, tea, coffee, tasters and lucky draw prizes. One of the main highlights of the evening will be the cutting/ tasting of the cakes entered in Foodpak’s Festive Baking Competition. Demonstrations offered are: Xmas Cake Icing/ Decorating by Cheryl’s Cake House, Choc Salami, Xmas Bows and Kit Kat Xmas Trees. Places are limited and booking is essential. Bookings can be made with Jackie or Heather 033 394 5309.

Some of the best stand-up comedians in the country appear at the historic Imperial Hotel for the Monthly PMB Comedy Night. 8 December 2017 at 8pm. Expect a night of non-stop laughter.

2. Eastern Extravaganza The Golden Horse Casino together with Radio Hindvani hosts a spectacular evening filled with colourful displays of art, talent and the best in Indian entertainment on Saturday, 25 November 2017 at GHC Grandstands at 5pm. Entry is free. No cooler boxes, picnic baskets or camp chairs allowed. You can look forward to Chutney and Nagara band and dancers, Tamasha aur Masthi and the famous Hindvani Bhangra Bash. Stalls offering, food, jewellery, beauty products and lifestyle items as well as a kiddies’ area for the little ones. Don’t miss this vibrant and exhilarating event.

3. Bad Finger to Bad Company Rhumbelow Theatre – Pietermaritzburg, Sunday 26 November 2017 at 2pm. Experience the new show concept of featuring two iconic bands, Bad Finger and Bad Company. Enjoy and evening of classic rock songs and discover the reasons behind some of the compositions.

5. Black Tax Celeste Ntulis latest one woman stand-up comedy show at Golden Horse Casino on 16 December 2017. The show is a take on who and where we are as a people, hosted by the hilarious and multi-talented Isaac Gampu. “Black Tax” is a hilarious take on everything from yellow bones and fifty shades to socio-economics. Rewards cardholders qualify for discounts on tickets from 10%. T&C’s apply.

6. KZN Museum Holiday Club 11 December 2017 – Make your own reindeer, craft and activity.

Q: What do you get when you drop a piano down a mineshaft? A: A-flat minor. Q: What caused the airline to go bankrupt? A: Runway inflation! Q: Jokes about air conditioners? A: Nah, not a fan. Q: Why did the cross-eyed teacher get fired? A. She couldn't control her pupils. Q: Where do the poor meatballs live? A: The Sphaghetto. Q: What did the swordfish say to the marlin on prom night? A: Looking sharp. Q: What do you call a blind dinosaur? A: Do-you-think-he-saurus

13 December 2017 – Make your own Christmas Stocking and Treasure Hunt. 15 December 2017 – Make your own snow globe, Christmas Tree and Carol singing. Programmes suitable for ages 6 -13. Bookings are essential. Call Nozipho on 033 341 0500 or email her on switchboard@nmsa.org.za. Space is limited to 30 kids per day.R20 per day.

Q. Did you hear the joke about the broken submarine? A. It didn’t go down well.

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Q: Why did the pizza maker run from the mafia? A: He owed them a lot of dough!

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PMB LAD SECURES A SPOT IN MR INDIA SA 2017 FINALS Currently juggling a BCom Marketing Degree and his very own Fashion Brand, Wahda Designs, 21 year old Nabeel Khan from Pietermaritzburg, has managed to secure himself an impressionable spot in the MR India SA finals. “It all started when a friend called me in late May and strongly suggested I enter, I never took this seriously as I didn’t believe that I could compete in a national competition. Aesthetically I felt I was out of shape and this was one of my biggest challenges. However a few weeks after the call, I decided to pursue it knowing full well that I had to work hard to get to where I wanted to be physically and emotionally. So, I went out on a limb and entered, and what a crazy ride it has been ever since!”

South Africa. The objective being to empower young men to become positive role models that can impact the communities we live in. It is also aimed to get the contestants actively involved in youth development programmes. This platform gives us the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the less privileged. The contest is a merging of our Africanism and Indian culture and more importantly being proudly South African,” says Nabeel. “The competition’s process, for me, started in July this year. Initially it was about whether or not you do represent the “full package” and once that was established through the individual interviewing stages, my journey began.”

finals, I was honoured and motivated. Channelling this emotion, I’ve been focusing on the tasks we have had in the contest & being the best I possibly can be from a physical and emotional perspective.”

Nabeel is also involved in various projects in the digital and leads marketing sphere such as Social Influencing and Brand “People fail to realise that this is not a beauty Management. We wish Nabeel everything of competition, but rather a platform to grow the best in his run to becoming MR India SA global leaders. The fact that the Mr India SA 2017! is so much more than a modelling or aesthetics contest is why I chose this. It strives on individual diversity; that we as finalists have to represent not just the aesthetics of a model but as well the intellect and leadership qualities of a young innovative entrepreneur and ideally, this is the full package.”

“Before I knew it the competition started to flare up as the Johannesburg & Cape Town guys were added to the mix, and as weeks went by, guys were slowly knocked out and fortunately I was able to pass the stages and activities required to make it to the Top 10 in SA.”

“Throughout the contes we, as finalists, have performed a number of tasks which influences our ranking following into the final show. These include charity work, a cook-off, networking with sponsors & entrepreneurs and so much more. The judging for the contest is internal and a panel of judges will decide the victor.”

As a current finalist in this contest, Nabeel sees the Mr India South Africa Contest as a platform to motivate excellence in young men. “The contest cleverly combines the arts, business, fashion and culture. It seeks to embrace the variety of cultures and races in

“When I first started this process I knew that there were many aspects about myself that I needed to work on in order to get to the finals and have a good chance to compete for this title. When I heard that I am in the

The Grand Finale for this sell out show will take place on 3 December 2017 at the the Hilton Hotel in Durban. The public can get involved through various methods of sponsorship. All details pertaining to the

Flakka, a new synthetic drug, which is sometimes referred to as “bath salts” is a novel psychoactive substance that affects the dopamine system as well as the noradrenaline system.

took at least three to four people to restrain them”. In a separate incident also in Chatsworth, three men were hospitalised after taking the drug at a party. One of the men allegedly attacked a woman and bit off a chunk of her arm. Another is reported to have suffered heart failure.

Its effects include rising temperatures, a heightened state of awareness, lack of sleep, agitation, paranoia and delusions of super human strength. One of its most devastating effects is psychosis especially for people who have a predisposition for psychotic states.

According to SA Community Crime Watch founder, Steven King, Flakka makes people do “crazy things”. He re-iterates that it is a very dangerous drug and has caused many deaths in many parts of the world. King mentions that “South Africa is not winning the war on drugs and Flakka is going to be the evil of all evils if it is not taken care of”.

Flakka, which has been sweeping Australia and the U.S. has hit Durban at the time school exams are winding down. The Chatsworth based Anti Drug Forum, a voluntary organisation formed in 2005, to assist a community ravaged by substance abuse, has this to say about the drug: “ We have experienced it with some people who came to our centre because their drinks had been spiked with Flakka. When the drug took hold, they were like Zombies, violent, abusive and suffered extreme hallucinations. They had to be sedated and it

There has been no report of the drug surfacing in Pietermaritzburg as yet however the Specialised Crime Unit is keeping a close eye on the situation.

competition can be found on the Facebook page - Mr India South Africa.

Nabeel Khan - Mr India SA Finalist & founder of Wahda Designs.

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FOOD

World Diabetes Day,

is celebrated on the 14th November every year. It has grown from humble beginnings to become a globally-celebrated event which increases awareness about diabetes. Comprising hundreds of campaigns, activities, screenings, lecture, meetings and more, World Diabetes Day is proving internationally effective in spreading the message about diabetes and raising awareness for the condition. To play our part this November we have supplied a Diabetic Friendly food page. Read our article on interpreting food labels and try out this months yummy recipes!

Interpreting food labels - can it help?

should eat at one time, while the information per serving indicates how much of the various nutrients you will get from one serving of that food. This is a measure of the amount of energy a food provides. Taking in more energy than your Here are some helpful tips: body needs or uses will result in Once you understand what to look • The information per 100g allows weight gain, so it is important to out for on food labels, you will you to compare how much of each balance your extra energy intake begin to navigate the store aisles with regular physical activity. with ease, while choosing suitable nutrient is found in different products for your needs. In South products. This means that you can • People with diabetes are Africa, the way manufacturers label choose the higher fibre, lower sugar and lower sodium products permitted to have some sugar, nutritional information on food provided it is consumed in a small by comparing serving, in the context of a their nutrition balanced meal. Eating too much tables. sugar in one go can have an impact on your blood sugar levels, • The recommended so aim for products with a lower sugar content wherever you can. serving size indicates how • Eating too much fat can cause much of that excess energy intake and weight product you gain, so it is best to choose lower Yes, Interpreting Food Labels is said to be ne of the best ways to determine whether a product is suitable for someone with diabetes, is to learn to interpret food labels.

packages has been standardised, which means that no matter which food you are looking at, the same method of interpreting labels always applies.

fat

carb

fibre

sodium

30g

490mg

• A high sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure. Ensure that your total sodium intake from processed foods and added salt is not more than 2000mg per day.

energy

protein

fat

carb

fibre

sodium

835kJ

10g

8g 23g

320mg

per portion

protein

per portion

energy

• The higher the fibre content, the better! Fibre is important for digestive health and helps promote a more gradual impact on your blood sugar levels. The Department of Health stipulates that a food must contain at least 6g fibre per 100g in order to be classified as high in fibre, or at least 3g per 100g to be a source of fibre.

Spinach and Leek Pie

Korean Beef Lettuce Wraps 883kJ

fat products wherever possible. A high intake of saturated fat has been linked to increased risk for heart disease. Choose products lower in saturated fats as a general rule of thumb.

Method: Preheat oven to 180°C. Heat a little oil and gently fry onion, leek and garlic until soft. Remove from heat and add cooked spinach, cottage cheese and egg. Mix well and season with grated nutmeg, salt and pepper. Lightly grease a 24cm quiche tin with a little olive oil and line with 1 sheet of filo pastry, allowing the excess to hang over the sides. Brush pastry with a little olive oil and layer with another sheet of pastry. Repeat this process until pastry is finished. Place spinach filling into the centre, and fold the pastry to cover the top. Brush with a little olive oil and place in oven for about 25-30 minutes or until crisp and golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serves: 4

500g beef strips Vegetable oil 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced Handful fresh coriander, washed 1 head butter lettuce, leaves washed and separated For the marinade: 1t ground black pepper 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1t sesame oil 3T soy sauce 1T mirin 1 red chilli, finely sliced

Serves:4 1T olive oil (plus extra for brushing pastry) 1 onion, finely chopped 1 leek, finely sliced 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 400g spinach, cooked and squeezed dry 100g low-fat smooth cottage cheese 1 egg, lightly beaten Grated nutmeg Salt and pepper 5 large sheets of filo pastry

Method: Place beef strips in a glass bowl, add all the marinade ingredients and mix well. Marinade for at least 30 mins. Heat a frying pan with a little oil. When hot, sear beef strips in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!) Remove from pan and set aside to cool. To make the wraps: Place a little beef into each lettuce cup and top with a few carrots, cucumber and coriander. Drizzle over any leftover pan juices, wrap up and serve immediately.

Top tip:

Because this dish has such a low carbohydrate content, you could consider a cup of fresh fruit salad with some plain yoghurt as a healthy dessert.

Top tip:

Popeye was right! Spinach is one of the most important green leafy vegetables, and a great source of a variety of micronutrients, including antioxidants.

Page 5

Micro Needling

What is Micro Needling and how does it work?

Micro-needling is a collagen induction therapy which harnesses the bodies innate ability to repair and regrow the skin as a response to micro-damage. Tiny punctures on the skin stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, normalizing various skin functions. What can Micro Needling be used to treat? • Acne pits • Surgical and trauma scars • Hair Regrowth • Stretch Marks • Fine lines and wrinkles • Acne scars • Pigmentation Dr Pen vs Derma Roller

The Derma roller can only be used on certain areas but the Dr Pen device can be used to treat areas near the eye, nose and mouth. Different needle depths are needed to treat various regions on the face and body. The needle depth can easily be adjusted with the Dr Pen Device yet a Derma Roller cannot be adjusted leading to poor results. A total of 300-400 punctures per second can be achieved with the Derma Roller yet the Dr Pen creates a minimum of 1300 punctures per second. The more punctures are made the better the results. This concludes that results with the Dr Pen are far more effective, less pain and less down time. Book your Dr Pen micro needling session now at LaserBerry Aesthetic Clinic today, on 082 464 1960.

Article by: Alia Gani Aesthetic Practitioner LaserBerry Aesthetic Clinic

The Galaxy Newspaper is looking for a Junior Sales Representative.

Requirements: 3 - 5 years experience in the Sales or Marketing field. Must have a proven track record. Valid driver’s license and own vehicle. Must be willing to work overtime or weekends on request. Must possess great communication skills and be a people’s person. Must be driven, have strong time management and great personal organisation skills. Good personal appearance. Candidate MUST BE A TEAM PLAYER. Responsibilities: Managing new and existing client database. Must manage daily records of communication with clients. Remuneration: Salary + Fuel Allowance + Cell Phone E-mail CV to halima@blackincmedia.co.za. Kindly consider your application unsuccessful should you not hear from us within 3 days of application. Applications close 16 December 2017.

Every girl has that pair of go-to sunglasses. The pair that you splurged on. The pair that saves the day when you need to pop out without your face beat. The pair that takes your straight from good, to Crystal Kasper levels in a second. But what do you do when disaster strikes, and your lenses end up scratched?

It happens to the best of us, no matter how careful you are. We’ve you got some genius tips to save your sunnies. 3 Ways How To Fix Scratched Sunglasses; 1. Go to your kitchen and grab some baking soda. 10 drops of water, 5ml of Baking Soda. Rub this paste on your scratched lenses with a cotton ball, then rinse off with water. Or head to the bathroom 2. Grab your tube of Toothpaste. Please note the toothpaste has to be non-abrasive, non-gel AND non-whitening. Rub on your lenses with a cotton ball, and then rinse off with water. 3. Try to find some Brass Polish Gently dab brass polish on to the lenses, and rub it around. Remove with a clean cloth.

Ashley Graham

The Derma Roller consists of a rolling pin covered in needles. During this treatment the roller leaves behind a trail of microscopic punctures, creating lateral epidermal tears in the skin. This makes the treatment more painful and causes longer downtime for the client.

The Dr Pen device enters the skin at a 90 degree angle, eliminating pain and tears in the skin.

Your Scratched Sunglasses with these 3 Tips...

See? All fixed. And if not-time to buy a new pair and say ‘Good bye” to those old faithfuls.

Page 6

At Imzansi Constrcution we offer the following services... • Residential, Commercial & Civil Building Construction • Professional Drafting & passing of Plans • Renovations or Installations of Ceilings, Dry Walling, Partitions and Waterproofing. • Fitting of Aluminium Windows & Doors (1,2 x1,2) from R1400 • Now specialising in Professional Aluminium Carports. Colours avail - White, Bronze, Black

GEAR UP THIS FESTIVE SEASON WITH OUR EFFECTIVE SECURITY SOLUTIONS! 24 - HOUR SECURITY GUARDS

ALARM SYSTEMS FROM R2999

Equipped with baton, teargas and hand-cuffs. All guards are SOB registered.

2x P.I.R 2x Panic Buttons 1x Siren 1x Keypad 1x Control Unit 2x Magnetic Contacts

FIND US IN:

PIETERMARITZBURG, EMPANGENI AND JOHANNESBURG BRANCHES NOW EXTENDED TO SANDTON/LENASIA SOUTH/RANDBURG/NEWCASTLE

In warm appreciation of our association during the past year, we extend our gratitude to our clients and wish you all a blessed & joyous Festive Season!

Page 7

pool services.. We offer • Pool Maintenance Keeping your pool sparkling clean doesn't have to be as cumbersome as you might think. All pools are different, and so are their maintenance needs. However, they all share one commonality: The secret to pristine pool health is regular, routine care - we’ll show you how!

• Pool Plans & Installation of Fibre glass Pools / Gunnite Pools Call us to set up a briefing - choose your shape and we’ll do the rest!

FIND US IN:

PIETERMARITZBURG, EMPANGENI AND JOHANNESBURG BRANCHES NOW EXTENDED TO SANDTON/LENASIA SOUTH/RANDBURG/NEWCASTLE

Page 8

home & Garden

Water Wise Water Features

Swamp type plants cope well with filtering household Choose fountains with coarse droplets that help waste water for example Typha capensis (Bulrush). reduce atomisation, thereby reducing evaporation. When constructing a pond, use solid surface construction material, Check the level of your for example cement or pond daily to see if it glass fibre in preference drops dramatically, and if to clay or soil that allows so check for leaks. water to infiltrate If your water feature is A water feature can add a wonderful focal point to any through it, causing a placed in an area of high garden or landscape and encourages birds and water loss. wind, this will increase insects. However, water features can also use and evaporation. lose a lot of water. Use this guide to ensure your water Tips to ensure your feature is Water Wise. water feature does not Check old ponds waste water: manufactured of concrete Aim for minimum size, with maximum effect and regularly for cracks and limited open pans of water. Plant water plants that Fountains with a fine leaks. cover the water surface area and reduce evaporation. spray or high pressure Aim to locate water features in the shade to limit waterfalls lose a lot of Plant water plants that evaporation. Design/adjust to ensure that no water due to evaporacover the water surface splashing occurs. tion.

area and reduce evaporation.

Place one water feature strategically in a focal area to get the greatest effect rather than several scattered around the garden. Avoid water features that require a continuous supply of new water. Aim rather for self-contained, re-circulating water. For example, avoid the dripping tap type feature.

Remember that a Water Wise water feature is one where the water falls into a pool below that is 1.5 m wider than the height of the fall of the water. This will prevent water from being splashed out of the collecting pool. Also, install a timer into your water feature so that it only operates when necessary. The sound of soft rippling water is much more calming and relaxing than that of a high gusher.

New ‘Home’ for InfoProp Michelle has established the company through effective marketing techniques to become one the leading smaller agencies in Pietermaritzburg showing an impressive growth with an From starting her office at home expanding footprint in all the city’s in Blackridge in 2013, INFOPROP suburbs and surrounds, including Real Estate , Principal and Franchise farms as well as commercial sales. Owner, Michelle Hiscutt has Being a small dynamic real estate recently acquired her own team, InfoProp is best known for premises at Ingeliside Office Park, their professional yet personal 29 Howick Road, Wembley. approach in bringing sellers and

In only 4 short years INFOPROP has grand opening of own premises at ‘INGELISIDE OFFICE PARK.’

Pictures by: Evelyn Gray

buyers quickly together on a regular basis.

Leading from the front by adopting a hands on approach on the business, Michelle is a true leader, motivating and inspiring, all of US.

STUDENT ACCOMODATION now AVAILABLE IN SCOTTSVILLE

2 rooms available for single or sharing. Communal kitchen and bathroom. Free WiFi. Close to UKZN and all amenities. Book your space now for the new academic year !!! Contact Geraldine on 033 8178404 or rentals@growthpointrealestate.co.za.

Oak Park

R 10 000,00

This home boasts a fully fitted kitchen. An open plan lounge & dining room with Bar area. 3 Bedrooms with BICs - 2 with Aircons. 1 Ensuite Shower and seperate main Bathroom. A Jacuzzi on the outside deck for a relaxed summers evening. Huge downstairs entertainment area. Spacious Double Garage.

Pelham

R 4500,00

This neat bachelor unit in Pelham offers 2 Bedrooms , Shower and Kitchenette, seperate entrance and parking available. Suitable for single professionals. Available immediately.

T: 033 817 8404 | E: rentals@growthpointrealestate.co.za

entertainment

SHOPPING TIPS FOR

BLACK FRIDAY 2017 Is this your very first time joining the amazing deals and sales happening on Black Friday in South Africa? Not sure how to go about it, where to start or what to do? We will list seven tips to help you have a great shopping experience this Black Friday & Cyber Monday.

In the past, Black Friday was all about hitting the shops and Cyber Monday was when you could go online for some top deals. Now, internationally, more money is spent on the internet than in-store on Black Friday.

In the US, Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving Thursday, when retailers kick off the festive season with massive discounts, the "black'' being an accounting reference to turning a profit.

Takealot - South Africa's biggest online retailer - introduced South Africans to Black Friday in 2011, doing sales worth R1-million on that day. This year, its Black Friday sales look set to top R100-million,

WINE AND JAZZ AFFAIR Last weekend saw the popular, Ilawu Hotel and Conference Centre together with All that Jazz host a Wine and Jazz Affair for all the Jazz fanatics. Described as “a meeting place for all those with a mature appetite for performance arts and the Jazzy culture.” This event attracted beautiful guests from all corners of the Midlands, some even having heard about the event abroad. The pleasant weather added to the day’s ambiance. The picturesque iLawu Boutique Hotel’s pool patio was converted to a stage showcasing the best in local talent and performances. Guests were also treated to welcome drinks and cash wine bar courtesy of the iTopForm Wine Club, with lunch being prepared by iLawu Food services. Describing the event doesn’t do it any justice, one would’ve had to be there to witness the excitement all around. Many of the attendees expressed their appreciation of the afternoon and intimated that this event is something they would definitely support on an on-going basis.

According to Grant Brown, MD of the country's biggest fashion retailer, Zando, a massive 30% of those who shopped on Zando last Black Friday were new customers.

kicking off on Monday with app-only specials.

1. Know what you are looking for - do your homework. Some shoppers get so overwhelmed and excited by all the products available that they simply do not know what product to buy. Not knowing exactly what you are looking for or what product range you have in mind will make for a lost sale. Black Friday goods sell out very fast and if you take too long being undecided you might miss out on that great deal. If you're going global, Wirecutter - owned by the New York Times - collects Black Friday deals from retailers around the web. If Amazon is your go-to shopping destination, Wirecutter advises, add items to a wish-list or your shopping cart, but don't buy anything yet so you can see how much the prices change between now and Cyber Monday, November 27.

"This helps reveal exactly how big a discount that sale price really is.” Make sure of your extra costs: shipping, customs and VAT, and, if your purchase is to be posted rather than couriered, a clearance fee charged by the SA Post Office (R24 or R48 depending on the size of the parcel). Some sites include shipping and customs, others only shipping, and none includes clearance fees. If you don't check what you're in for, your bargain could be anything but by the time it gets to you. And remember: goods bought from overseas don't have a warranty in South Africa. Look at the price, not the "saving". Claims of, say, "60% off" refer to the price the retailer first sold that item for, not its most recent price. So its Black Friday price could be just 10% or 15% less than its September or October price, for example. 2. Get there early. On Black Friday and Cyber Monday it is truly a case of the early bird catches the worm. If you are purchasing at a store be sure to get there early – and I mean really early. First one in the queue is first to snag a great deal. 3. Plan your routes. Knowing which stores run specials on Black Friday for a couple of hours and which stores will be running it for the entire day or the entire weekend will help you plan your routes to your favourite stores. Visiting the stores with limited hour sales first gives you enough time to visit stores that may run it for the whole day or even the entire weekend. Also make sure that your stores are located closely together to help rule out a stressful and traffic filled route.

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4. Take a buddy.

It may be a good idea to get a friend or family member to go with you on Black Friday and stategise which products your shopping buddy will go for and which ones you will take. That way you can work as a team to grab deals in a well stategised team effort. 5. Buy online. With some online web-stores already open for business at the stroke of midnight, buying online might just become your best friend. You can miss traffic, busy malls, queues and easily pay via credit card or EFT with secured payment systems. Banks are on standby for Black Friday this year and buying is as simple as a click. But remember these deals also sell out fast so visit a trusted and well know brand’s online store early.

Look out for dodgy URLs. Even if you receive an e-mail from what looks like a legitimate retailer with its logos and fonts, it could be a scam, says Heino Gevers of Mimecast. "Always type a retailer's address into your browser to avoid being redirected to a fake site. And be on the lookout for the all-important https:// (as opposed to http://). The "s" stands for secure - so that one little letter is crucial to your online safety.” 6. The Returns. Check out a company's returns policies before you buy - it is not legally obliged to take back a product if it is not defective. If they do, they have total discretion over terms and conditions. But if something you've bought on a Black Friday promotion turns out to be faulty, you have full Consumer Protection Act returns rights you get to return it, at the company's cost, for your choice of a refund, replacement or repair. 7. Know your shops. If you are visiting an area or shop that you are unfamiliar with this Black Friday make sure to get to know the layout of the shop first or stick with a shop that you are familiar with in order to avoid getting “lost” in the masses and in between unknown shelved. 8. Stay hydrated. The most important thing to remember on Black Friday is to keep safe. Pack snacks, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will most probably be walking a lot and ensure you have enough water with you to keep hydrated during your shopping spree and rest where needed. And last but not least - Have fun!!!!

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MOTORING PAGES

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NEW BEGINNINGS: NISSAN NAVARA 2.3D LE DOUBLE-CAB 4X4 A/T Pics by Nissan@Motorpress

There are two ways of looking at the new Nissan Navara. You could dismiss it as girly because it has illuminated makeup mirrors on both sun visors and it rides comfortably over really harsh surfaces. It feels more like a city car than a rugged, 4x4 double-cab pickup. Ford and Isuzu come fairly close but Brand T still has a way to go… Alternatively, you could say that Nissan has at last acknowledged that women like driving big, rugged 4x4 pickups too. And before die-hard traditionalists throw up their hands in horror at Nissan’s apparent abandonment of what is “true and right”, let us explain. First, more buyers are turning to pickups for home and leisure use, so they demand greater comfort. Second, despite being more comfortable,

these short bin pickups carry decent loads. Newly enlarged load bodies handle between 961 and 1002 kilograms, depending on transmission choice and trim level. They share the same GVM and GCM ratings.

Three introductory “new Navaras” are aimed at the weekend adventure and family duty market but other configurations are on the way. Some will have traditional rear leaf springs and simpler suspension arrangements. The present line-up consists of 4x4 doublecabs with Nissan Renault’s 2.3-litre, commonrail dual-turbo diesel that develops 140 kW and 450 Nm. A less powerful version with single turbocharger puts out 120 kilowatts and 403 Newton metres of torque. You will see this engine next year, along with this suspension and 4x4 setup, in the MercedesBenz X-Class 220d. Our test rig was a top-of-range automatic in LE trim. That means reversing alarms in addition to the camera; dual zone air conditioning; push button starter; 18” wheels

rather than 16” and the spare is alloy rather than steel; a second interior light; roof rails; indicator repeaters in the outside mirrors and Utili-Track tie-downs rather than conventional rings in the bin. Auto transmission adds hill start assist and descent control.

Standard across the range are cloth seats; lockable tailgate; side steps; independent, double wishbone suspension in front with quintuple links and coil springs at the rear; disc and drum brakes with ABS, BA, EBD, traction control, vehicle dynamic control and brake-operated limited-slip differential (BLSD). The traditional four-wheel drive setup includes a transfer box with dial-in 2WD/4Hi and 4Lo. There’s switchable diff-lock too. On-road performance feels “big and easy.” There’s plenty of power, it loafs along at about 2200 rpm at 120 km/h in seventh and the gearbox works almost intuitively. The only people who might perhaps feel slightly cheated would be X Class-buyers expecting to find a 7G-Tronic underfoot. The Nissan ‘box is almost, but not quite, there. Other kit includes seven airbags; LED projector headlights; baby chair anchors; a back seat cushion that flips up to carry loads inside; powered cab window; six-speaker audio with the usual plugs and Bluetooth for phone and streaming; powered windows and mirrors; cruise control and a spoiler lip on the tailgate. It identifies the new model immediately. The load bin is near-as-anything 1.5 metres squared and 474 mm deep. Rubberising is optional but a 12-volt socket and high-level brake light are standard. Tie-down choices were explained earlier. Getting into the back is easy because there are climb-in handles at all passenger doors (guess the driver just has to be athletic) and grab loops for when he or she drives enthusiastically. Head- and foot space rate as “satisfactory” while knee room is generous. There are three belts and three head restraints and the floor is almost flat so middle passengers can sit comfortably.

The front office boasts a storage bin under the armrest, cup holders, two 12-volt sockets, touch-screen panel and straightforward ventilation controls. The conventional hand brake is properly placed for right-hand drive. Our only real gripe is that the touch screen is impossible to see in sunny weather; not that the driver should be looking anyway. Summing up, we reckon this new Navara is one dam’ fine pickup and it would be pointless hanging on for Brand M’s certainly more expensive alternative. Test unit from Nissan SA press fleet The numbers: Price: R587 900 Engine: Nissan YS23DDT 2298 cc, four-cylinder, chain driven DOHC, 16-valve, twin-turbo diesel Power: 140 kW at 3750 rpm Torque: 450 Nm between 1500 and 2500 rpm Zero to 100 km/h: 10.8 seconds (Autocar magazine) Maximum speed: 180 km/h (Autocar magazine) Real life fuel consumption: About 9.1 l/100 km Diesel fuel requirement: Max. 50ppm sulphur Tank: 80 litres Tare: 1881 kg Rated bin load: 961 kg GVM: 2910 kg GCM: 5910 kg Maximum (braked) towing mass within GCM: 3500 kg Turning circle: 12.4 metres Ground clearance: 229 mm Approach/departure/breakover angles: 33.0/27.9/25.2 degrees Maximum wading depth: 600 mm Warranty: 6 years/150 000 km Service plan: 3 years/90 000 km at 15 000 km intervals

Repeater vents in the rear of the central console help keep everyone comfortable. The seatback is fixed but lifting the squab reveals two hidden compartments. The jack and tools are in one of them. Apart from that there are plenty of storage slots, pockets and boxes spread throughout the cabin.

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SA FACING ANOTHER HUGE FUEL PRICE HIKE, WARNS AA... The Automobile Association has warned South Africans to brace for a “sharp jump” in fuel prices at the end of November.

projected increase of 75 cents a litre, petrol is set for a 74-cent rise, and diesel 63 cents. In addition, the AA cautioned that the picture may worsen before the end of the month.

The AA was commenting on unaudited mid-month fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund.

“We cannot ignore signs that South Africa may face a further round of downgrades by ratings agencies, possibly even before December,” the Association said.

“The rand is testing one-year lows against the US dollar,” the AA said. “In addition, there have been heavy increases in international oil prices.” Illuminating paraffin tops the list with a

“Concerns over government’s fiscal discipline are likely to continue weighing heavily on the rand, and if these factors combine with continued oil strength, South Africans will face heavy fuel price hikes for the remainder of 2017 and into early 2018,” the AA added.

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quick patch-up job or some fresh blood in the form of Maketa as assistant coach while former Proteas player Au Revoir Allister | Sa Loses Out On 2023 Johan Ackermann. Dale Benkenstein takes up the position of batting coach and Justin Ontong (would have preferred Jonty Rhodes) The one point victory over France in Paris is not fooling fielding coach. Claude Henderson remains the spin Bafana Fail To Make World Cup | Ashes Set To Sizzle. anyone. The team were just as disjointed and error-prone asbowling coach while Craig Govender succeeds Brandon

NOVEMBER had all the ingredients to

cook up the ultimate sporting feast for all fans to devour. From the spicy starters of international rugby to the sizzling main courses of world cup qualifiers . . . certain teams got their ‘just desserts’, setting the stage for a sumptuous sporting delight . . . all cooked over a flame of ‘Ashes’. Did fans enjoy the meal? The proof was in the ‘pudding’ and there was indeed mixed results. The undercooked Springboks went from bad to worse with ‘head chef’ Allister Coetzee finding things too hot to handle in the kitchen while the Proteas ordered something fresh. Our beloved national team Bafana Bafana had numerous complaints from patrons while being ‘roasted’ by critics. Can December’s menu improve on the previous cuisine? Time will tell, as we recap November’s sporting meal.

SPRINGBOK is a popular dish in South Africa. However in rugby terms, the name has a metaphorical meaning like no other. Pride, honour, integrity are words that come to mind. Such a proud legacy has been torn to shreds in the space of two years. A badge once respected has now become a laughing stock. The once vaunted Bok pedigree is fast on the decline as we head straight into the abyss. I am sure that all Bok fans know exactly what I am talking about, particularly after the hiding and humiliation at the hands of the Irish in the first match of our end-of-year tour. What transpired there was not pretty but at the same time not entirely unexpected. Especially if one remembers results such as 57-15, 57-0 etc. Irish eyes

as they have ever been under Coetzee. What saved their bacon was the fact that France is simply worse than us at present. It was only our second away win under the current coach and the team won in spite of him, not Yet another unwanted blot on the Curriculum Vitae of one because of him. Allister Coetzee. Yes I have been critical of him for months now but rightly so, as he has provided me with Whatever the decision, Coetzee simply has to depart the so much ammunition. It is indeed nothing personal as he role. Too much damage has been done. If still in the hot seat come next season, I will lose all faith in SA Rugby is in general a very likeable character and I actually feel and will be lost as a fan forever. Au Revoir chap. sorry for the guy. were indeed smiling as they handed us our biggest ever defeat in matches between the two foes, spanning almost a century.

His CV has accumulated so many unwanted firsts and records that I fear I may not have enough space on the page to note all. Where shall I begin: besides the record 38-3 loss, we also suffered our first ever home loss to Ireland in Coetzee’s first ever game in charge. We then suffered our biggest ever loss to New Zealand (57-15) and our largest ever loss (57-0), period! Add to this our first ever loss to Italy, our first loss to England in ten years, our biggest ever loss to Wales and the worst ever season (2016) statistically by a Springbok coach (including a winless European tour), and you have a recipe for disaster. Shall I go on?

RUGBY WORLD CUP 2023 - In other major rugby news, France were handed the rights to host Rugby World Cup 2023 after ousting bidding rivals South Africa and Ireland. Personally I feel this was a horrible decision BUT not because SA did not win but because it is now obvious that World Rugby is run by a bunch of ‘old boys’ who are preventing the sport from growing.

Jackson as physiotherapist. Greg King remains in his position as fitness trainer as does Prasanna Agoram as technical analyst. BAFANA BAFANA has done it again! The team failed dismally in their final two World Cup qualifiers against Senegal, losing both and in the process missed out on yet another FIFA World Cup.

The consequences are too sad to contemplate but let’s remain positive. SAFA’s Vision 2022 project is still very much on track and with their new digital registration system (MYSAFA), things are looking up. The focus now is on qualifying for AFCON 2019 and becoming consistent. Stuart Baxter simply has not had enough time with the team. We can only go up! Good luck to the 32 competing nations (pity about Netherlands and Italy) for sports biggest event, particularly our African brothers (Senegal, Nigeria, Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco).

France hosted a mere ten years ago! How are they allowed to handle the tournament again so soon? Are you kidding me!!! SA also had their chance already, while THE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE is in full swing as Ireland hosted many matches in the 1991 event and is a Manchester City seems to be running away with the title. tad too small to host all on their own. Pep Guardiola’s chargers are simply unstoppable at the moment and will be hard to catch. Manchester United for Yes we all feel for the guy as he has pressure heaped Yes, SA would have done a great job (would have been a all their trying look to be falling just short as they blow upon him by SA Rugby, who in turn has pressure piled welcome boost for nation building) and are the best of away all smaller teams but struggle against the top six. onto them by government, to make sure the team is the three, but with the current unstable political climate, Chelsea will be a threat while Arsenal, Liverpool (who ‘representative’ of the nation i.e. quotas. Let’s not go crime and multiple other negative issues, we are better keep getting ‘Klopped’) and Spurs will probably come up there though – this is a topic for another time. off without this burden and simply don’t even deserve the short yet again. Good luck to all teams across all major rights. One simply has to look at how Commonwealth leagues. What Coetzee needs to do is resign gracefully and with some dignity before the inevitable guillotine falls upon his Games 2022 was bungled. Countries such as America and Argentina need to be the nation’s hosting the cup DECEMBER will see cricket’s Ashes series in fifth gear head. If he hasn’t figured it out yet, Eddie Jones mighty and spreading the game such as Japan will do for Asia in as England will look to gain some measure of revenge for England will be SA bound come next season. Does he 2019. We need the sport to grow like football and take it their 5-0 thrashing on their previous visit to Ozzie shores. really want to tarnish his record even more? England is the world number two team for a reason and went on an to new continents. Why are we keeping it among a few The Australian’s are looking decidedly shaky with some elite nations and not sharing the spoils? Wake up World questionable player selections, and I thus have the incredible unbeaten streak last year. Not to mention Rugby!!! English as slight favourites for this one. The month will more games against the All Blacks coming up. also see the Proteas back in action as well as the Squash Time is running out and we need a new coach who has PROTEAS players are currently enjoying some local T20 World Championships, as the calendar begins to wind action in the Ram Slam T20 tourney but the powers that down. sufficient time to build and mould a team for the 2019 World Cup. Dave Rennie or Wayne Smith anyone? A Kiwi be are still keeping an eye on the busy international summer ahead. Alas, we have a new management team. IN CLOSING, well done to Lewis Hamilton and coach would do wonders and with the talent we have, Mercedes on retaining their respective titles and to Chad the team could be unstoppable! If not a New Zealander Head honcho Ottis Gibson’s overhaul is indeed a welcomed one and will take the team to new heights. Le Clos for a record fourth Fina World Cup crown. Take then perhaps a proven guy such as Jake White to do Changes include current Warriors coach Malibongwe care, Cheers!

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