The Greytown Gazette

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A talking point on Saturday night after the Farmers Agri - Care monthly mug, was the difficulty of the St Cathryn’s golf course, and how to play the course and then also the loss of golf balls. ”I can’t hit my driver on all the holes and .........” Maybe hitting the driver is an ego thing because all golfers want to use a driver and every golfer would like to belt the ball 320m plus down the fairway.

For those of you who watched the British open hosted at Royal Lytham and St Anne’s, you would have noticed that even players like Woods and Scott, played irons on holes like the 4th, a 444 yard, par 4. The reason being that surrounding that hole were dangerous bunkers hidden away and to think that there were over 265 bunkers on that course, on average about eleven per hole…..you will see that real men still play with irons.

The Farmers Agri -Care mug played last Saturday had its fair share of excitement. With the wind blowing from a Northerly direction in the morning to no wind at all, (at times). Golfers put balls out of bounds and into the water hazards. Paul Els kept his cool and when asked how many times he used his driver, he said on four occasions only. On other occasions, placing of the shot made him use less of his artillery power and opt for fairway woods off the tee.

It was a weekend of the Els’es for golf all over the world, Ernie Els winning in Scotland and Paul Els at St Cathryn’s, where els? Well done Ernie for making South Africa proud by winning by one shot over the weekend.

Supper on Friday night will be homemade soup and breads, to book for golf and / or meals please phone 083 269 1661.

GREYTOWN COUNTRY CLUB NEWS

Congratulations to Jack Drew, He walked away with the cash on Friday night. The next attendance draw will be on Friday 3 August with R100 up for grabs. Be at the Club between 6:30- 7pm and it could be you.

Happy Hour is Friday 27 July. Thank you to Umvoti Repairs who is sponsoring the meal, with beef goulash on the menu, this will be an evening you do not want to miss. R20 puts you into the draw to win R1000 or a bottle of Chivas Regal and that is also your ticket to enjoy the food. DJ ROB will be in the house! SAB beer will be sold at half price for the duration of the happy hour sponsored by Greytown Beer Distributors. Everybody is welcome.

We would like to remind golfers of the ongoing FNB/NLDTF Wednesday and Saturday Leagues. Entry fees are R40 for players who enter for the leagues/competitions on those days. The NLDTF Greytown Development league is also ongoing on Tuesdays at no charge.

Dates to diarize

Fri 27 Jul – Happy Hour sponsored by Umvoti Repairs

Tue 31 July – Cheap as Tuesday Burger special

Sat 4 Aug – Mascor\NLDTF Monthly mug

Sat 11 Aug - Hackers Day

Sat 18 Aug - Aheers Development Golf day

ends

WICKY WACKY CAKE

Even non-bakers like, the Gazette editor, could beat the wrap with this cake recipe. During the holidays mums will find this a quick and easy recipe to meet those constant hunger demands. And it's easy enough for a cooking wise youngster to make!

750 ml flour

2 ml salt

60 ml cocoa

5 ml bicarb of soda

150 ml oil

30 ml vinegar

15 ml vanilla essence

500 ml water

Mix all ingredients together with wire whisk. Pour into greased oven pan (roasting pan)

Bake @ 180C for 25 - 30 min.

If you wish to ice it, place a paper doily on the cake, put icing sugar in sieve and sprinkle over cake. Remove the doily to see the pattern

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FLOWER FACTS

Did You Know?

*Some orchids can grow over 65 feet in length.

*Broccoli is a flower as well as a vegetable.

*Sunflowers are able to soak up radiation.

*Helianthus is the scientific name for sunflowers, helia for sun and anthus for flower.

*Saffron is a spice that comes from a type of crocus flower.

*Titan arums are the world’s largest flowers at almost 10 feet in height. Due to their horrible aroma of rotting flesh, titan arums are also called corpse flowers.

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NATAL U/16 RUGBY PLAYER

Well done to Manus van Rensburg on being selected to play for the very successful Natal U/16 rugby team at Bokkie week in Kroonstad. Manus, son of Tinus and Karen van Rensburg of Greytown, is in Grade 11 at Voortrekker High School having completed his junior schooling at Greytown Junior School.

The van Rensburgs would like to thank Manus’ sponsors Dirk Fourie, Mersey Trading, Sando Trannsport, HGi-Q Greytown and Umvoti Repairs for making his participation possible.

ends

PEDAL ON THE WILD SIDE WEENEN

Pedal on the wild side in this year’s Husqvarna Weenen Game Reserve MTB Classic. On Sunday August 26, mountain bikers will tackle the bushveld, cross grasslands to cycle their way along scenic game trails and the challenge of single bush tracks in the Weenen Game Reserve.

Events include the 40km Classic (R100 to enter before the race and R120 on the day), 19km intermediate ride (R80 pre-race and R100 on the day) as well as a 10km kiddies ride/walk (R30) and 15km run (R60). To enter, log on to: www.ezemveloho,com or www.lionsriverho.co.za

Apart from family and friends who will take time out to enjoy the beautiful natural surrounds, spectators are likely to include local residents such as white and black rhino, giraffe and eland.!

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PANNAR MIXED DOUBLES

There was again an excellent entry of 20 couples with visiting players from Mooi river; Hilton and Howick at the PANNAR mixed doubles tournament held on Sunday

This is proving to be a very popular tournament with wonderful prizes, five star food, and excellent tennis. Sincere thanks to PANNAR SEED for their very generous ongoing sponsorship! Without this sponsorship a tournament like this will not be possible.

Other Greytown businesses also donated prizes which is appreciated by all: Fiddlewood Nursery; Rhino Charcoal , Organic for Africa and Wizzard Worms.

Thanks also to the organizers, committee ladies for the delicious lunch, and the members for tea eats.

Results as follows:

‘A’ SECTION

Winners: Richard Katandika & Janet Thompson

Runners up: Laurie Butlin & Mitzi Le Roux

Handicap: Marius van Vuuren & Sandy Butler- Winners of PANNAR Handicap Trophy

‘B’ SECTION

Winners: Craig Currin & Kelsy Edkins

Runners up:: Richard Cyrus & Lynne English

Handicap: Mark Thomas & Pam Paul

‘C’SECTION

Winners: Pierre & Kim Steyn

Runners up:: Willie Weideman & Louise Hill

Handicap: Quintus Coetzee & Penny Cutten

Lucky draw prizes were also awarded.

Next event on the calendar is the popular 4-A –side family tournament. Watch this space! Social tennis is carrying on as normal, see you at tennis on Saturday.

IT'S ON FOR 9 AUGUST 2012!

Its on for 9th August -the Pannar funday. For anyone interested in the game of bowls this is a must which can be enjoyed by the whole family ...and remember its Thursday, National Women’s day and a public holiday! To complete this fun social morning -a bring and braai at lunchtime with salads provided.. Please phone Bryan Paul on 076 1272 762; Roy Thomson - 082 777 9039 or Derrick Balfour on 072 271 3047 -entries limited to the first 60

It was pleasing to see 18 players on the magnificent greens last Saturday afternoon. The nominated pairs semi-final was played on a very fast and true rink. Jack Drew/Ray Elliot came up against the experienced Roy Thomson/Ernie Weykes. Roy and Ernie were neck and neck with Jack and Ray at the start of the game but Jack and Ray were on a roll and thumped the opposition 30-18. They now meet Bryan Paul and Derrick Balfour in the finals

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HELP URGENTLY NEEDED -PLEASE

There were shrieks of delight when staff and children from the Greytown Children’s Home paid a surprise visit, on Mandela Day, to a family in Muden Food was given to the family and Team Nika got stuck in making good use of the cleaning materials they had brought. .

While this was going on an assessment was made of the house in which six people live - it is very unlikely that the building will stand up to a heavy downpour of rain The construction of a solid house is desperately needed with basic furniture and cooking facilities. As the family of six survives on the gogo’s social grant and R20 the mother of four earns per day as a farm labourer, obviously there is no chance of the family improving their living conditions.

With the theme, ”make everyday a Mandela day”,Team Nika will visit every month to improve the living conditions of the family. Their next visit is scheduled for Saturday 18th August. Anyone who can help in anyway is asked to contact Terry at the Greytown Children’s Home 033 413 2133.

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BUILDING A HOME WITH HOPE

This was a culmination of many people contributing their 67 minutes over a period of months to make a new life for a family in Khamanzi whose house was burnt down in a lightning storm last year. Spearheaded by Umvoti AIDS Centre this EarthBag house was kickstarted with the fundraising Strawberry Fun Run in August 2011. So many committed their time and resources to making this house a reality. The final touches, were fittingly carried out on Mandela Day when the key was handed over to the proud new home owner and her family.

Major and generous contributors to project: PG Mavundla Construction the corrugated iron for the roof;Greytown Build It which donated all the paint for the project; Ithala Bank, led by bank manager, Sibusio Sikhakhane who not only donated food and painting materials but were hands on Mandela Day assisting in the finishing touches.

Many thanks also to the Greytown community who offered donations big and small, each bringing hope to a family in need.

DISTRICT DEPUTY MAYOR HANDS HIMSELF OVER

IN a dramatic development in the recent murder of two NFP Councillors in the District, a 56 year old man handed himself over to Greytown Police early on Monday morning in connection with the killings. The man, reported to be the Deputy Mayor of Umzinyathi District Municipality, was a NFP Councillor. He will appear in the Msinga Magistrate's Court on Wednesday on murder charges.

The two NFP members were Councillor Tshelembe and Councillor Nhlebela. On 1 May Councillor Tshelembe was returning from a meeting at Tugela Ferry to Keates Drift with two others when they came under fire on the R33 Main Road in the Nsongeni area. Councillor Tshelembe and one of the other men were killed while the third man was seriously injured.

Councillor Nhlebela was killed in a hail of bullets on 6th May on the Dundee - Nqutu Road near Hazelmere Farm. It is alleged that the Councillor had stopped his vehicle for his son to open the farm gate when a unknown gunman emerged from the hawker's shelter and shot him through the open window, killing him instantly. The two passengers in the vehicle were unhurt.

The murder sparked off widespread media interest and party officials arranged for an urgent meeting with KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni calling for her to intervene and protect councillors and members from attack. Accusations were levelled against the South African Police Service, from certain quarters, that NFP Councillors were not afforded the same degree of protection as those from other parties. General Ngobeni unambiguously stated that the SAPS would serve and protect everyone without discriminating of the basis of race, gender, religion or political affiliation. She made it abundantly clear that the police would leave no stone unturned to bring the perpetrators to book.

On 16th July, four other suspects, Nonsindiso Dlamini (22), Mkhonzeni Ntuli (37), Mlindeli Mchunu (31) annd Monjani Mgwaba (41), appeared in Msinga Magistrates' Court in connection with Councillor Tshelembe's murder. The case was remanded until 25th July for bail application and the four remain in police custody.

"We have a mandate to serve and protect the people of our land and we have and will continue to do so without fear or favour. We are crime-fighters and all cases are investigated equally without bias. We have proven once again that, try as they may, criminals cannot escape the long arm of the law," said the Provincial Commissioner.

STOP PRESS: Late Monday afternoon Matimatola Taxi Drivers shot dead in his vehicle parked at Greytown rank. Three passengers in taxi injured by unknown gunmen.

18 July 2012

GREYTOWN AVENGERS 2012

“As second year engineering students at the University of Pretoria there is never a dull moment writes Greytonian and Civil Engineering student, Michelle Holdt. They are required to carry out a Community Based Project to assist in whatever way possible - with a minimum of 40 hours to be done by each student. Our initial idea was to put up a shelter for youngsters in Muden who often have nowhere to sit and eat their lunch in the excruciating Muden sun, but with some political tension there, we decided to look at plan B.

Plan B however was a much greater task, because now instead of putting up a 3x3m shelter, we were tackling a 12x12m car-port at St Davids Diocesan School under which teachers will park their cars but also when it rains will use it as a shelter for their scholars..

As amateurs in the field of building and with limited practical experience I opted for some help from Mr Werner Redinger, who generously helped in designing and building and also acted as supervisor and mentor during this project. A sincere thanks to Werner for all his support, time, help and patience.

Despite a few ups and downs we managed to master all the challenges that came our way by staying motivated and determined no matter what. Working from 7 to 7 is a major shock to any students’ system, but the end results made all the cold and early mornings worth while.

We would also like to thank the following sponsors : Bracken Timbers and Gary Schwartz (planks), Werner Redinger (poles and equipment), Willem Holdt (equipment) and Gerda Holdt (accomodation and food).

Special thanks also to Gerrie Germishuizen, Nick Klapprott, William Cooper, Janet Klapprott, Barry Lamb, Willem Holdt, Gerda Holdt and Ds Willie van Zyl for their help and input and to Johan Scholtz and St Davids for giving us this wonderful opportunity.

Once again the community of Greytown proved to me why it is worth being a proud Greytonian!

You can follow our blog at blogs.up.ac.za/jcp2012 and look for Avengers.”

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VODACOM UPDATE!

Following on last week's "no power to you" Vodacom service, a phone call was received by the Greytown Gazette last Thursday from one of the multiple voices who answer the Vodacom cellphone number. The call, she said, was to inform me "that the problem had been fixed." As various Vodacom talking heads had spent the week denying that there was anything wrong, apart from my computer which apparently has magical powers to affect other 3G users, in Greytownt his was quite an admission!

Now an intermationally famous bird and wildlife photographer, Murray Cooper has strong links with this part of the world. With his parents, Lynn and Brian he spent much of his youth on the farm “Came”, Seven Oaks and will be visitng his family, the Duttons there, next week. Having matriculated from College, Murray also has many “old school” mates in the area.

He has been in Ecuador since 1991 where he spent the first eleven years working on the conservation of the Choco rainforests, the story of which, and of course photographs, are the focus of one of his four published coffee table books. These include “Plumas - birds in Ecuador” which was the best selling book there in 2007; ”Birds of Colombia” ; ”Humming birds of Ecuador” and a more indepth look at the behavioral aspects of neo-tropical birds -his 2012 work.

Working mainly in the neo-tropical rainforests, Murray’s speciality is that his bird images are taken almost always using purely natural light, without the use of flash! He, his wife Patricia and their two children live in a “beautiful farm in the cloud-forest near to the capital, Quito, stepping boldly into the 21st Century with road access, powerlines and internet!”

Murray will be giving a talk and slide show on Tuesday 24th July in Leuchars Hall at 6 p.m. as fundraiser for Greytown Rotary. Tickets at R50 obtainable from Greytown Gazette - snacks will be provided.

ENDS

FROM THE COURTS - PANNAR JUNIOR TOURNAMENT

.Sixty four players entered the popular PANNAR junior tennis tournament held last week by local coach Derje Brown and the standard of play was good. A sincere word of thanks to our sponsor PANNAR Seed, without sponsorships like this, such tournaments would not be possible. A special word of thanks to Julie Cotterrell and her team of moms who provided scrumptious meals to all the hungry tennis players... much appreciated by all!

Winners:singles:

u/8 and under: M.J. Venter

Runner-up: John Yeadon;

Boys u/10 ; Callum Norris

Runner-up: Luke Poree

Boys u/12 :: Calum Keyser

Runner-up: Troy Fincham

Girls u/12 : :Calista Muna

Runner-up: Ashleigh Mason

Boys u/14 :: Ross Campbell

Runner-up: Julian Acutt

Girls u/14 : Hermien Steyn

Runner-up: Ivana Dede

Girls u/16 : Amy Patterson

Runner up: Ceyanne Scott

Boys u/16 :: Oliver Thompson

Runner-up: Jaron Poper

Doubles:

U/8:M Brown & MJ Venter

R/up: Keryn Chiazzarie & Leah Tedder

Boys 10 : Callum Norris & Oliver Pride

Runner-ups: Luke Poree & Nkosinati Dlamini

Girls Doubles12 : Tayla Poree & Jamie Buchan

R/up: Amy Cotterrell & Calista Muna

Boys Doubles U/12 : Calum Keyser & Troy Fincham

R/up: Michael Chiazzarie & Scott Butler

Girls Doubles u/14&16: Hermien Steyn & Ceyanne Scott

R/up: Amy Patterson & Justine Pearson

Boys Doubles u/14 : Ross Goble & Timmy Norris

R/up: Julian Acutt & Andre Stewart

Boys u/16: Don-Don Patterson & James Tedder

R/up: Ross Campbell & Oliver Thompson

Mixed Doubles u/ 10 : Calum Keyser & Jamie Buchan

R/up: Troy Fincham & Tayla Poree

Mixed Doubles u/14 : Sachin Singh & Kelly Pearson

R/up: Timmy Norris & Hannah Tedder

Mixed u/ 16 : Don –Don & Amy Patterson

R/up: Thuba Mzila & Hernien Steyn

Players are reminded of the Handicap matches that are still to be played starting at 13H30 on Saturday. Social tennis will carry on as usual.

The annual PANNAR Mixed Doubles Tennis Tournament is taking place on Sunday, 22 July. Remember to phone Ashley Cotterell to enter. High school scholars are also welcome to enter. Starting time will be 8H15 for 8H30 .

Can club members please be so kind to provide a plate of tea eats... entry fee is R100 per person which includes a tasty meal. Players will be playing in different categories suiting the level of their game.

ENDS

TOP KZN TAXI MEN MEET

SANTACO top personnel in KZN were in Greytown last Wednesday for a meeting with Umzinyathi Regional Taxi Council, stakeholders and the management committees of the ten taxi associations which fall under Umzinyathi -these are:Kranksop,Matimatola, Enhlalakahle, Greytown, Muden, Keates Drift, Tugela Ferry, Pomeroy, Dundee and Nquthu.

SANTACO is the only taxi organisation recognised by the Government .and was founded after intensive consultative processes with taxi operators throughout the country. Its objectives to transform the industry into a formal and viable business that competes in the marinstream economy. SANTACO representatives made it very clear that members who caused violence and instability within the industry would not be tolerated and their operating licences cancelled.

Umzinyathi regional chairperson, Jeffrey Ngobese in presenting an overview listed some of the problems such as no proper taxi ranks, no water and toilets at ranks; congestion caused by illegal operators and ranks; no street shelters for passengers; no platforms for discussions between leadership and stakeholders in general.

Umzinyathi leadership appealed to the Provincial leadership to facilitate getting the Municipalities on board as it viewed public tranport as a partnership and social responsibility for SANTACO and municipalities to deliver to the communities.

Training needs which had been identified, Mr Ngobese said, included, customer care, first aid, driver, business and management skills.

SANTACO Umzimyathi, working with Police, RTI and Municipal traffic police will embark on the Operation Hlokomela (take care, watch out) for the safety of taxi passengers and the community at large. This campaign covers:

inspection of vehicles before they leave the taxi rank;evaluation of the driver's physical condition; andcommunmity social interventions.

ENDS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADIBA

Throughout the world today, 18th July, birthday wishes will ring out for a man who means so very much to so many.

A feature of these international celebrations is the emphasis on spending 67 minutes (at least) to achieve something to help someone in need.- the theme - make every day a Mandela day to enhance even more the image of this much loved, admired and respected 94 year old.

In Umvoti individuals, businesses and NGOs will be carrying out a range of activities in the spirit of Mandela Day.

Three families will have solid roofs over their heads today -in Seven Oaks, thanks to Umvoti Aids Centre; in Muden thanks to Kinderhuis personnel and again in Muden where Sjula Myaka and Zimbambeleni are handing over the three bedroomed house built by the combined efforts of Municipality and UAC. Zimbambeleni appealed to local businesses for furniture and household goods and this will all be handed over today.

Lilani Hot Springs is also going to benefit from Mandela Day - Bracken Timbers, Adrian James and LETCEE have all been putting in their 67 minutes plus to assist the community to maintain this incredibly beautiful spot as the tourist attraction it should be.

Photos and details of your Mandela Day and 67 minute projects please -send to the Greytown Gazette for publication next week.

On behalf of all its readers, the Greytown Gazette wishes Madiba a happy 94th birthday !

ENDS

Third in the world!

Putting Greytown loud and clear on the world map, local resident Hoosen Mahabeer and his son Adam were placed as third loudest stock sedan in the world! This achievement was at the the world record event held in Newcastle two weekends ago. The father and son took part in the semi final sound off and were placed first in the Stock Sedan category.

Greytonian Dhenendren Moodley was also placed second in his class, advanced no walls.

ENDS

THREE IN COURT ON CHARGES OF RAPE.

Three men were arrested in Greytown last Thursday in connection with the rape of a woman, the previous night , in the vicinity of the railway line.

Thembinkosi Dlamini, Bonginkosi Zuma and Lugansani Bhengu from Lindelani appeared in the Greytown Magistrate's Court on Monday on charges of rape and the illegal possesion of a firearm,.

The case was remanded until next Tuesday for a bail hearing - the three remain in custody

ENDS

RAMADAN 2012

Depending on the sighting of the new moon, before or after sunset, Ramadan 2012 will begin on 20th July and ends again on the new moon on 18th August.

Ramadan falls within the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar -the lunar month starts with the sighting of the new moon’s birth.

During this month Muslims fast from the break of dawn till sunset-fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a time of worship and contemplation, to strengthen family and community ties and to give .. It is a unique opportunity to seek forgiveness and repentance.

The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during Ramadan and one of the greatest ways of honouring the Qur’an is by reading it during Ramadan.

The purpose of Ramadan, is to gain Taqwa -piety . The real test is to carry out the good deeds done during Ramdan throughout the rest of the year.

Eid Ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the conclusion of fasting with a joyful celebration which last for three days.

ENDS

CHERRY ON THE TOP!

Their ages total the double century mark (plus) but these three gentlemen in the photo, Mick Prentice, Barry Varty and Cherry Wulfsohn, were several decades ago wellknown forces to be reckoned with in Provincial and National hockey.

There was much reminiscing at the farewell party for Cherry and Hazel Wulfsohn at the Bowls Club last Wednesday. The trio played many hockey matches for Greytown and Natal Country District hockey teams.

But the Cherry on the top was when Cherry was selected to caption the South African Districts team!

ENDS

THE RHINO THAT CAUGHT A POACHER

In the first six months of 2012 251 rhinos were poached and barbarically killed in South Africa .

Using this tragic fact as the theme of her latest novel, wellknown author Brenda Munitich has written a telling tale emphasising the devastation of the killings but at the same time the importance of conservation, tourism and that crime does not pay!

Well written for the younger market, "The Rhino that caught a Poacher" is about Dingwane, a rhino calf, who is rescued by two youngsters, after his parents are killed by poachers. The story is then cleverly linked in with the nationwide passion for soccer with Dingwane displaying amazing skills!

At R60 a copy this is a very worthwhile to be read, or reading story for the youngsters. Copies can be ordered through the Greytown Gazette...and Brenda will autograph with details if required.

HOW NOT TO DRIVE

A family travelling from Pietermaritzburg were lucky to escape
serious injury when this Kranskop registered Mercedes vehicle overtook, on a double barrier line, on the New Hanover hill. The oncoming vehicle had to swerve right off the road to avoid a head on. This photo was taken by an alert passenger in a vehicle behind the truck round about 10.30 last Saturday morning.
Policing on the "killer" road was more visible for a short while after the petition submitted by concerned motorists - but obviously not nearly visible enough!

11 July 2012

BUDGET DEBATE CONTINUE

Two weeks ago the Greytown Gazette published a front page article on the 2012/13 Budget which Council had passed -the IFP and DA however do not agree.

In a letter to the Umvoti Municipal Speaker, the IFP Caucus chairperson, S.V. Zondi stated that "It is obvious to everyone who were present that we were against passing the biudget because we had been excluded from Council for over a month. At this meeting we continously requested a workshop before passing the budget which shows that we were against the proposal." "It is the view of our legal department that the budget was not passed."

DA Councillor P.Buss states "it is with concern the DA takes note of the ANC statement that the 2012/2013 budget has been passed -if it was in fact passed it has not been published in the Provincial Gazette as required. It is our contention that a majority of Councillors were not in support of the budget and it was therefore not passed. Council may have transgressed the Municipal Systems Act and the Financial Management Act, with serious repercussions and I cannot recollect this ever happening in the past."

However Umvoti Mayor Godfrey Mavundla is emphatic that the 2012/2013 Budget was passed at the June meeting and told the Greytown Gazette that if the IFP wants to challenge the budget they must do so .. He pointed out that Budget workshops had been held in all the wards, IFP and ANC, for several months prior to the final meeting and these had been attended by the IFP Councillors so there should not have been a need for a further workshop. He was satisfied that due process had been followed and the 2012/2013 Budget passed.

ENDS

NEW VODACOM SLOGAN...NO POWER TO YOU!

With 200 million rand being spent by Vodacom on marketing its new look, image, etc it's hardly surprising that the score or so of Vodacom customers in Greytown are voting for a different slogan..."No Power to you."

Since last week the Internet/email/and to a certain extent cell phone service has been a sporadic nightmare! Try to run a business.Try to do your banking. And worst of all try to get a positive response and reaction from Vodacom - that's all into the realms of make believe!

The Greytown Gazette editor, since last Thursday has spoken to approximately one dozen Vodacom personnel -all of whom have denied there is a service problem, claiming that the problem is "in your computer". One engineer demanded answers "to what I had used prior to 3g" and got quite uptight about it - also when I queried why it had taken from 9 a.m. on Friday to 4 p.m. to get any sort of reaction was informed "that's not too bad - in fact *(the response)is quite good."

Needless to say nothing improved or was activitated by him or the many others that frustrated Vodacom users in Greytown have managed to contact. So what next - one of the many is lodging a complaint with the National Consumer Council (please let the Greytown Gazette have information to pass on); and another has already switched to MTN.

Suggestions, few and far between from Vodacom personnel - Pietermaritzburg ran short of bandwidth so Greytown was targetted; its school holidays so Blackberries working overtime; there's actually nothing wrong with the Vodacom service - it's the individual computers. And best/worst of all -the Customer Care Centre informed one caller that it would take at least 14 days to investigate to decide what action could be taken!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So from now - spot a Vodacom user in Greytown -easy anyone with a demented harassed and maniacal look!

Following the recent resignation of IFP Councillor D.N.Zondi, Umvoti Municipal Manager declared a vacancy of one IFP Councillor serving as a PR Councillor. The Independent Electoral Commission, in terms of the requirements of the Municipal Structures Act informed the MM, on 4th July, that the candidate at the top for the IFP party list, former Umvoti Mayor, Petros Ngubane had been elected as a Councillor.to fill the vacancy.

It should definitely be featured in the Guiness Book of records - a tennis tournament with 44 players, all members of one family -the van Bredas!

It all began, some time ago, with Volley and Lesley van Breda, who lived on a farm in the Dalton area where they grew sugarcane and timber. As tennis enthusiasts, their four children, Piet, Fred, Jane and Joy were also, spending many happy hours playing on the clay court on their farm, Breland..

The late Volley van Breda is survived by his wife Lesley and their 4 children and the tennis-crazed family has grown...substantially!

On 30th June this year New Hanover School hosted a very unique tennis tournament made up of just the van Breda family ...a total of 44 tennis players!

Mark Vorwerk , Jane’s son and professional tennis coach, and Piet (eldest son of Volley and Lesley) put this annual tennis day together and the format of the tournament ensured that everyone had a chance to play.

The day’s proceedings were served up at approximately 10h30 with the opening shot aced by the van Breda matriarch Lesley and this was soon followed by non-stop tennis until the sun went down. Healthy family tennis duels were the main feature towards the end of the day.

Family spokesman, Piet van Breda summed it up "In a world where the concept of a nuclear extended family has been diluted through the human desire to explore new territories and to enjoy life elsewhere other than their birthplace, seeing families make time to get together, reconnect and stay active is truly unique and dare it be said: special." May and June weather stats

May rainfall was a minimal 24.4 -most of it on Tuesday 15th May when 20mms was recorded but June was even less with a mere 15.6 recorded -the highest 7.2 on Saturday 23rd June.

Data given to the Greytown Gazette by Ram Bhagdath, Research Data Processor, Pannar Seed, shows that:

in May the lowest minimum temperature was minus 1.73 on 21st May and the highest maximum was 31.6 on 4th May -not bad for an Autumnal day!

June temps were slightly lower - the lowest minimum being minus 3.94 on 11th June and the highest maximum closing off the month on a really hot note was 26.33 on the 30th.

Lowest and highest averages for the two months: May: 7.181613 and 23.75355 and June:2.9 and 20.5 - May averaged out altogether at 14.43935 whilst in June the average was 11.03

Bonus rainfall on Saturday night and Sunday recorded maximum 10 mls in town - at least it settled the dust!

Having for years thought that “Triskaidekaphobia” was fear of Friday 13th, I have discovered , via the Internet that it is a fear of the number 13!

The fear of the day itself is a phobia either “paraskavedekatria” or "friggatriskaideka” These phobias will have flourished three times by the time the clock strikes midnight on 31st December 2012. Two have already passed, in January and April and the third is this Friday -13th July.

Various reasons have been put forward over the years as to why this day is associated with bad luck. The most popular theory is that the 13th guest at the Last Supper betrayed Jesus and his Cruxifixion was the next day, a Friday. It is also said that Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit on a Friday and died on a Friday. In ancient Rome twelve witches make up a coven -the 13th was said to be the devil.

On the other side of the coin, to the pagans 13 is a lucky number, corresponding with the number of full moons in a year; the Scandinavians regarded it as the luckiest day of the week.

Looking for a free good meal - in France “quatorziems” (fourteeners) hire themselves out for dinner parties where only 13 guests have been invited!

A very well attended farewell to popular Cherry and Hazel Wulfsohn was held last Wednesday after a most enjoyable afternoon of social bowls. Cherry and Hazel have decided to move to the Reef to be closer to family and we wish them all that they wish themselves...we are sad to see them go!

It is also time to say "goodbye" to our oldest playing member, Mac, who will be leaving us shortly to be closer to his daughter in the Cape. A farewell will take place at the Bowling Club this Wednesday (11th) after the afternoon's social bowls.

The Jack Drew/Derrick Balfour pair came up against Roy Thomson/Ray Ellior in the final of the Nominated Pairs. The on form Roy Thomson, having just won the singles championship and newcomer Ray Ellior, also playing fine bowls, was the side to beat and Jack and Derrick did just that after a very evenly pace first half with the final tally being 20 -14.

The drawn pairs will now take place - please watch the notice board and play your game asap.

The popular annual PANNAR sponsored bowls day will be held on National Women's Day, Thursday 9th August, and will follow the same format as the Sunday morning social bowls - make a note to be there and enjoy!

Kranskop residents expressed their appreciaiton at the launching of a mobile community service centre (CSC) for the area last Tuesday. KZN Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni said at the launch that this was an initiative to enhance service delivery in the Kranksop policing precinct.

Previously residents in this very large area had to cover vast distances to get to either the Kranskop or Greytown Police Station. Now the CSC offers the basic services which includes certifying documents, reporting crimes, signing affidavits, motor vehicle accidents - in fact any incident that required Police attention.

The Mobile CSC will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. making scheduled stops in specific areas on certain days - a 4 x 4 vehicle will be used to bring the facility to those living in more inaccessible areas. On behalf of the residents of the Makhabeleni area, acting chief, Thandazani Dlomo said that this facility would really help the community in being able to report matters quicker to the Police who were expected to act quickly "unlike when we used to travel long distances to Greytown."

South African National Blood Service’s daily target of 5 days blood stocks can only be met if 3 000 units are collected a day -but since the start of the winter school holidays this has not been achieved. This is an an urgent appeal to all regular donors to please make time to donate blood as soon as possible.

Currently the blood stock level is two days and this is expected to drop further states SANBS communications manager, Vanessa Raju which will affect patients waiting for planned surgeries etc.

By donating blood you could save up to three lives - please if you are a donor and can donate, do so. This is also a plea to all South Africans who meet the minimum requirements as follows to commit to donating blood.

· Be between the age of 16 – 65 years; weigh more than 50 kgs; be in good health ; live a sexually safe lifestyle.

SANBS would like to thank all regular blood donors, who are silent heroes and we urge you to continue donating blood regularly.

It was a weekend of extremes in the sporting world and St Cathryn’s was not left out. It all started on Friday when the Sharks swam all over the Blue Bulls at the Shark tank, then England trounced the Aussies with an eight wicket win in their fifty over cricket game. Pomodoro, a complete outsider, took the spoils at Durban July with Serena Williams winning the ladies final and Roger Federer took his seventh Wimbledon final and then came Liekie Steyn and she blasted a Ladies course record with a NETT 60 in the Sanlam Cancer Challenge on Saturday.

The Sanlam Cancer Challenge met the golfers with slick, fast carpet type greens with a slight tinge of green dye sprayed over them to give them that green colour for the occasion. Eighteen golfers took part in the challenge in all the divisions.

The Friday meat comp was a wholehearted family affair when brother-in-law Pieter Booysen and Liekie also took the chicken home on 24 points. Sakkie and Gail came a close second on 20 points.

Forestry Solutions through the Umvoti Fire Protection Association (UFPA) and KwaZulu Natal Fire Protection Association (KZN FPA) are conducting a number of fire detection trials in the Umvoti area. The Umvoti region was selected as a neutral test area for the camera trials as it is not covered by existing electronic fire detection systems and it still uses operational fire lookouts. The trail period will extend from June through into August 2012 with a final report on the trials being available during September 2012.

Response time for fire teams is a crucial element of effective fire fighting; the early warning system to the presence of fires in the Greytown area has traditionally been done by staffed lookouts. In the last few years other forestry regions in KZN and Mpumalanga have moved to camera fire detection systems in which operators in a control room monitor 6 -10 cameras in a given area.

This year sees the emergence of a second electronic fire detection system being available for use in South Africa; the system uses scanner technology to detect fires versus the current camera fire detection systems. The KZN FPA and ZFPA (Zululand Fire Protection Association) commissioned Forestry Solutions to conduct a series of trials on both camera systems and to evaluate the efficiency of both electronic fire detection systems, the aim of both systems is to detect fires as quickly and accurately as possible under all weather conditions, and to compare it to the current fire lookouts.

The trial is based at the Kromberg fire tower from which an area of up to 18km in radius is viewed. Images are taken and relayed to computers in an OPS room where they are monitored and analyzed. Any fires identified are then relayed back to the respective landowner.

For more information please contact the Umvoti Fire Protection Officer, Charles Haden on 076 154 1090.

In a slick well orchestrated linking up of forces and personnel Arcadia residents and staff, Rural Metro, 911 Ops Centre, local farmers handled the fire which broke out last Thursday with considerable aplomb.

First things first - not one person was injured in any way. The fire broke out through a Jetmaster in a general room on the corner section of the building opposite to reception. There was a smell of smoke and as soon as the source was identified everyone moved into action fast. The evacuate call was broadcast to residents and staff all of whom promptly put into operation what they had practised in theory .

A call to 911 resulted in a five minute arrival of Rural Metro plus a number of farmers with their bakkie sakkies who had picked up the fire call on their radios. It certainly is thanks to the prompt and professional response from all concerned that the fire did not spread and no-one was injured.

Arcadia manager, Sue Strydom, in a statement to the Greytown Gazette said “an army of angels came to our rescue that morning - within seconds 911 had alerted Rural Metro who promptly responded as well as numerous farmers. Women arrived to help evacuate the residents and all stayed with us throuroughout until everything was under control - words cannot describe our thanks and appreciation.

And then the wonderful dedicated staff of Arcadia - ”you are the best - everyone were stars and handled the crisis so efficiently and with so much love. And our very special people, the residents - thank you for co-operating so well .

You are very precious to us and we are so grateful that by the Grace of God there were no casualties.”

St Cathryn’s is currently an Aloe wonderland with all the Aloes in full bloom. From the clubhouse front door to the last tee box they are a blaze of colour, and for the bees and the birds – paradise.

Kranskop farmers are having their annual game count this week and some different bird species have made their way to the golf course. There are two spoonbills in the trout dam, and last week two blue cranes had to jossle for a tee - off position on the third, in between the 80 or so spurwing geese and plovers on that fairway. Mention must be made of the extensive damage caused by the spurwing geese on the third green where they are pecking away at some (not to be seen) goggas and worms.

This coming weekend we are having a festival of golf with the highlight on Saturday 7th the Sanlam Cancer Challenge. The program kicks off with a nine hole meat competition on Friday and the Formatt 4BBBS. On Saturday we play in the SANLAM Cancer challenge fundraiser for cancer and we invite as many golfers out there to come and support this good cause.

For all non - golfers we are having a cuppa tea for cancer and all monies donated will go for the Cancer foundation. All golfers winning their divisions go through to the next round to be played at Princes Grant on the 26th August and a win there, will qualify you for the finals at Sun City.

Sunday golf program has 18 holes of individual golf and that will be the last opportunity to settle those bets and collect your spoils.

Supper on Friday night 6th will be steak rolls, and we ask that you R.S.V.P for catering purposes and for golf to 083 269 1661.

It vibrates with colour and eyecatching items -the A2ZEE Jewellers and Boutique which has opened in the brand new shopping complex in Mitchell Street. Aslam and Zeena Cassim have linked up with Touch of Gold to stock a wide and exciting display of jewellery including rings, necklaces, watches, earrings and lots more. There is a selection too for men and children -watches, rings and gift sets

In the clothing line - the latest fashions can be seen for all ages-kaftans and abayas; fancy tights and leggings; scarves; jeans etc. And high high heeled shoes from Dubai!

The shop is open daily from 9 to 5.30 p.m.; 4.30p.m on Saturdays and month end Sundays till 1 p.m.

Pannar Seed, Africa’s largest seed business, is optimistic about the future of agriculture in South Africa and on the African continent, said managing director Deon van Rooyen following a recent meeting between himself and Eastern Cape MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Zoleka Capa.

In a concerted effort to foster a closer relationship between itself and agricultural authorities, over the past week Pannar has hosted delegations from the Ministry of Rural Development and Land Reform as well as the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal departments of agriculture.

“Pannar has knowledge, experience and resources to contribute to agricultural development, especially to the development of small-scale farming, but alignment with existing development plans and consensus among stakeholders is key to progress on this sometimes divisive matter,” said van Rooyen. He emphasised that time is of the essence: “Feeding a burgeoning population with rising dietary expectations is a major challenge that can be met and dealt with if we face them together. The growing world population puts increased demand on agricultural productivity. A 70% increase in global food production. will be needed to feed the growing population and South Africa and Africa were key agricultural growth areas providing tremendous opportunities for development. The role of both the public and private sector, working hand in hand, in meeting this challenge cannot be underestimated.”

These meetings took place on the back of the recent approval by the South African Competition Appeal Court of Pioneer Hi-Bred’s proposal to acquire a majority share of Pannar Seed (Pty) Limited. A transaction that constitutes a significant, long-term capital and technology investment that will bring tremendous competitive and productivity benefits to farmers across all customer bases, including small-scale, developing and commercial farmers in South Africa and Africa.

Following the approval of this partnership, Pioneer has committed R20 million over six years towards programmes that will specifically benefit small-scale and developing famers in South Africa. “We are committed to working with government, other public institutions and communities to develop programmes to address the challenges faced by small-scale and developing farmers to increase their overall farm productivity, profitability and food security,” the company said in a recent media release.

The Pansy is an essential component in every winter garden. Their cheerful and perky little faces brighten the dullest of winter gardens and will undoubtedly put a smile on your face.

Pansies are the larger and more popular cousin of the commonly known Viola. Used mainly as an annual, they are the most recognisable and popular of all the winter flowering seedlings.

Although commonly planted in flower beds, Pansies are extremely versatile and are widely used in pots of all sizes, either on their own or mixed with other winter flowering seedlings. Hanging baskets are another popular way to display these happy plants. Most Pansies have an upright and mounding habit but you can find trailing varieties which spill over the edges of hanging baskets and create quite a spectacle.

Plant your Pansy seedlings in well composted soil, spaced about 15cm apart. Pansies are hardy plants and withstand frost quite easily. Pansies like full winter sun and afternoon shade in the summer months.

Pansy flowers are edible and make a wonderful addition to salads or used as a garnish.

Information supplied by the Bedding Plant Growers Association. For more go to www.lifeisagarden.co.za

In South Africa Christmas is usually celebrated under sunny blue skies with braais and picnics rather than the traditional roast turkey and boiled Christmas pudding! But your chance to appreciate such a meal takes place on Sunday 29th July when the LETCEE Christmas in July luncheon takes place. It's a winter warmth event ,with a difference, for the whole family as there will be entertainment for all ages.

This event is a two prong one - not only to entertain but also to raise funds and collect toys for the LETCEE toy libraries.

As can be seen from the picture the space beneath the Xmas tree is empty -luncheon guests are asked to take along a toy or two to fill this empty space - these will be donated to the toy libraries.

Cost for adults for the three course meal - R100 each and R50 per child. Fill a table of 6, 8 or ten or sit at the communal table -venue is the MOTH Hall and time 11.30 for 12 noon. For more information, to donate toys or to book please phone Mary James on 082 858 0819.

Seven years ago, in 2005, life as he had known it changed for Siyanda Mthembu when he was shot and left a paraplegic. He went on to matriculate from Buhlebuyeza High School in 2008. Because of what he has gone through himself as a disabled individual, Siyanda is using his experiences to help and support those with mobility impairment, particularly within the rural areas.

A Ward 7 Committee member he was chosen to attend a six weeks training course at the Quadpara Association of SA in Pinetown a wide ranging practical and hands on course which covered business and personnel management; environmental accessibilty; relationships; support group dynamics; advocacy and human rights; etc. Siyanda also received certificates for completing computer literacy and Microsoft advanced internet and email tests.

With this background he is in the process of setting up a support group to develop basic life and personal management skills for persons with significant mobility impairment. Too often they are discharged from hopsital into rural communities where they suffer from lack of knowledge and assistance. Ideally hospitals should visit such patients and their families for specialised advice counselling and practical assistance -the support group will do such visits.

Siyanda is known to be passionate about youth development and empowerment through skills and knowledge and is busy negogiating with a business management training company from Pretoria to conduct sessions in Greytown for youth and people with disabilities.

Siyanda would also like to be in fulltime employment to make use of his business management and computer skills.

Anyone who can assist in anyway with any of the above is asked to contact Siyanda on 076 515 4620

There was great excitement in Kranskop two weeks when Aheers Multisave opened its modern and very up to dat supermarket in the main street of Kranskop. Having provided a first class retail service to the public for many years the Aheers management is determined that this will continue in its exciting new Kranskop store.

A large range of items are stocked and there is a popular hot food take away situated at the store. A spokesman for the Aheers group said that there had been a number of job applicants and the sucessful had been given intensive training in baking, butchery and administration to be prepared for retail work.

Aheers are holding a dance competition in Kranskop on 4th August and are inviting all interested dance to take part - R7 000 is available in prize money.

The Aheers have expressed their appreciation to all customers for their welcome and support

WATCH OUT ! WATCH OUT is an acronym used to remind fire fighters of potential dangers to their safety and to give advice on safe work practices. Understanding the meaning of the acronym will help you perform a more comprehensive risk assessment.

Think clearly, be alert and act decisively before your situation becomes critical.

The safety and success of fire suppression hinges on the command, control and communications systems that are set up to control the incident.

Communications: Communications are vital to the successful outcome of fire suppression or any other incident. A communications plan is developed to provide communications for the whole of the incident, as determined by its size and complexity.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

History does repeat itself -in the 1770’s colonial Americans, who had been loyal to King George 111 of England, decided that having no say in the decisions of the English Parliament was not acceptable anymore. A Congress representing various of the colonies in 1774 agreed to boycott all British goods in response to intolerable Acts which imposed heavy taxes without providing any representation for the colonists. England refused to negogiate and brought in the military.

The Congress then decided to draw up the Declaration of Independence which was approved by Congress in July 1776. On 8th July the first Liberty Bell sounded to summon citizens to gather for the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. Interestingly the first two Liberty Bells were defective so a third was made -that cracked in 1835 and has been silent since then.

In the following, to promote national pride and unity, the Congress adopted the national flag of 13 alternate red and white strips;13 stars representing the 13 colonies and white on a blue field representing a new constellation.

The names of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were withheld from the public for more than six months to protect them. If independence had not been achieved, the treasonable act of the signers would have, by law, resulted in their deaths!