Umvoti Mayor Councillor Petros Ngubane expressed his delight  that as a result of his three visits to China a retail outlet for solar heating equipment was to be opened in Greytown in the near future by his his"friend/brother/ambassador/investment adviser. Satish Ramdass who had been to China with him. In the photograph the Mayor presents Ms Emma Du, CEO of the Chinese solar power factory with a gift at the briefing  and dinner held last week to announce the opening of the  solar heating equipment shop in Greytown.

DOMESTIC WORKERS WAGE INCREASES

Since 2002 the minimum wages for domestic workers have been published annually , with the percentage increase, in the Government Gazette. The wages which apply from 1st December to 30th November 2011 have been gazetted

as follows:

For domestic workers who work more than 27 ordinary hours per week in Area B,rural which covers Greytown and the whole of Umvoti, the minimum wage is now R1256.14( was R1191.78) per month. Minimum rate for workers paid on an hourly basis R6.44

per hour (was R6.11).

The weekly rate is now R290.00 (was R275.14).

Minimum wages for domestic workers who work 27 ordinary hours per week or less:

On an hourly basis will receive R7.60(was7.22);weekly rate is R205.52 (was R194.99) and the monthly rate was R890.52(was R844.90).

Domestic workers include:gardeners;drivers; a carer of children, aged, sick, frail or disabled and domestic workers workers employed or supplied by an employment service.

A domestic worker must be paid double normal wages for working on a Sunday or one and half times the normal wage if the worker normally has to work on a Sunday.

No worker may work more that 45 hours per week and the limit of overtime is 15 hours per week.

An employer may not deduct more than 10% of the wage for a room or other accommodation supplied to the domestic worker by the employer. Accommodation must be in good condition, lock-uppable with a toilet, bath or shower.

Three weeks annual leave must be granted with full pay in a 12 month cycle. Sick leave, family responsibility leave and maternity leave are also entitlements of domestic workers.

No child under the age of 15 years may be employed as a domestic worker.

The annual increase is based on the official Consumer Price Index (CPIX) of 3.4% and were calculated as follows: CPI(excluding owners’equivalent rent)plus 2% for Area B(rural)=3.4%+2%=5.4%

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FIREARMS FOUND IN EARLY MORNING RAID

Two AK 47’s were among firearms and ammunition recovered by Police in the Seven Oaks area in the early hours of last Wednesday morning. Three men were arrested and appeared in the New Hanover Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on charges of illegal possession of firearms and live ammunition.

Acting on information received members of the SAPS Provincial Taxi task team raided a house in Seven Oaks area at about 4 a.m. last Wednesday. They arrested a 39 year old male and recovered an AK 47 and seven live rounds. At the second house the they arrested a 23 year old male who was found to be in possession of several .38 live rounds.

Continuing to a third house the task team arrested a 38 year old male in possession of an unlicensed AK 47 and an unlicensed 9mm Taurus pistol.

l.

All three Felokwakhe Zondi , Chairman of a Dalton taxi association;Mkakeni Zondi; and Nkosiyakwabo Hadebe

.appeared in New Hanover Magistrate’s court last Thursday on charges of Possession of Unlicensed Firearms and Unlawful Possession of Ammunition. They have been remanded in custody until Friday 17th December for a bail application .

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santa’s network of languages

Multi-lingo “happy Christmas”

If you are travelling round the world these holidays-the following could be of help to you on Christmas Day!

Arabic: Milad Majid

Argentine: Feliz Navidad

Basque: Zorionak eta Urte Berri On!

Chinese: (Cantonese) Gun Tso Sun Tan’Gung Haw Sun

Chinese: (Mandarin) Kung His Hsin Nien bing Chu Shen Tan

Columbia: Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo

Dutch: Vrolijk Kerstfeest en een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar! or Zalig Kerstfeast

Esperanto: Gajan Kristnaskon

Finnish: Hyvaa joulua

Flemish: Zalig Kerstfeest en Gelukkig nieuw jaar

French: Joyeux Noel

Gaelic: Nollaig chridheil agus Bliadhna mhath ùr!

German: Fröhliche Weihnachten

Greek: Kala Christouyenna!

Icelandic: Gledileg Jol

Indonesian: Selamat Hari Natal

Irish: Nollaig Shona Dhuit, or Nodlaig mhaith chugnat

Italian: Buone Feste Natalizie

Japanese: Shinnen omedeto. Kurisumasu Omedeto

Korean: Sung Tan Chuk Ha

Latin: Natale hilare et Annum Faustum!

Navajo: Merry Keshmish

Norwegian: God Jul, or Gledelig Jul

Pennsylvania German: En frehlicher Grischtdaag un en hallich Nei Yaahr!

Portuguese:Feliz Natal

Russian: Pozdrevlyayu s prazdnikom Rozhdestva is Novim Godom

Scots Gaelic: Nollaig chridheil huibh

Serbian: Hristos se rodi.

Slovak: Vesele Vianoce. A stastlivy Novy Rok

Spanish: Feliz Navidad

Thai: Sawadee Pee Mai or souksan wan Christmas

Turkish: Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun

Welsh: Nadolig Llaw

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aQUELLE MUDMAN CHALLENGE

Add to you list of New Year resolutions ...participation in the aQuelle Mudman challenge next February and resolve to start training right away for the Hermannsburg Mudman multi-sport event. Situated some 20 km east of Greytown on the R74 the Deutsche Schule Hermannsburg is home of the Mudman series.

Diarize Saturday 5th February, to make sure you don’t miss out on a swim, ride and run surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Natal Midlands.

The Hermannsburg Mudman is not only for serious athletes but is also an opportunity to give first-timers a taste of the action.RThe aim is to encourage more people to get outdoors and enjoy a day of family fun in a safe and secure environment. There are different options to choose in doing the triathlon. It is open to all ages, from kindergarten to pensioners so all can take part and enjoy.

This event consists of a Full Distance: 750m swim or 4km paddle/ 20km MTB/ 5km trail run Half Distance: 375m swim or 2km paddle/ 10km MTB/ 2.5km trail run.The Full and Half Distance you can complete as an individual or in a team.

The Spur Mudskipper Adventure, where children under 12 have their mini triathlon in different age groups contributes to making the day an amazing experience for the whole family. Here you can see 3 year olds riding their tricycles, 4 year olds paddling with all their might through the pool and dads or moms running with their offsprings through the finish line. But the most rewarding sight is the proud smile when they get their medals.

Mondi experts have helped to revamp the route You can expect a great riding challenge and for the beginners some tracks as an introduction to true mountain biking. The different routes are well marked and refreshment tables are throughout the track.

Camping sites and accommodation for the weekend are available on a first come, first served basis ...book or arrive early to get a spot! There will be food stalls, kiddies playground, live entertainment, and much, much more.

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FROM THE COURTS

The popular Roley Hill men’s doubles tournament, sponsored by Umvoti Tyres and Batteries, was held on Sunday 12 December in ideal playing conditions. The rain held off just long enough for all but one round to be completed.

A field of 15 couples took part of which only 4 were local! (A bit of a problem when asking for tea eats!) It was good to see ex Greytonians the Illmans and the Patersons, and all our usual out of town players again.

Thanks to all those who helped make the day a success, and thanks again to Umvoti Tyres & Batteries for their on-going sponsorship.

Results were:

A SECTION

Winners: Derek Brown and Ashley Cotterrell

Runners up: Mark and Laurie Butlin (Howick)

Booby prize: Darryl Evans and Paul Varty

Lucky draw: Ian and Brett, Paddy and Ashley

B SECTION

Winners: Ricky Buwalda and Mark Emerson (Hilton)

Runners up: Willie and Ferdie Luttig (Free State)

Booby prize: Jared and Brett (Howick)

Lucky draw: Guy & Murray, Brent & Ski

The trophy went to Derek and Ashley, and the winners of the raffle were Pete Koller and Emily Thomson.

There will be social tennis during the festive season - visitors are most welcome.

Juniors – don’t forget Derek Brown’s tournament in January. Please phone entries through to Derek on 083 228 9243.

The popular Pannar Seed mixed doubles tournament will take place on 23rd January. Come on Dads and daughters, Moms and sons, brothers and sisters, whatever, whoever! Please phone your entries through to Wendy on 082 771 7205.

The tennis club committee wishes all tennis members and all the Greytown sports clubs a blessed Christmas and a happy and healthy 2011

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readers write GERTIE... A STAR

Sir,

On behalf of my family I want to extend my heartiest congratulations and gratitude to a lady in your area/ Her name is Mrs Gertie Kotze and she planned my son’s wedding and did the catering for it in Pietermaritzburg.

She is such a talented lady who is always taking her clients into consideration . Many thanks to her for the most scrumptious meal and the absolutely perfect organisation for the whole event.

The people working behind the scenes are never recognised enough for the hard work they do. If she was in the Cape area she would be fully booked every weekend.

Jolene and John Edwards

Kuils River

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MAYORAL JOY

Umvoti Mayor Councillor Petros Ngubane expressed his delight that as a result of three visits to China a retail outlet for solar heating equipment was to be opened in Greytown in the near future by his “fir end/brother/ambassador/investment adviser” Satish Ramdass who had been to China with him. In the photograph the Mayor presents Ms Emma Du, CEO of the Chinese solar power equipment factory with a gift at the briefing and dinner held last week to announce the opening of the solar heating equipment shop in Greytown.

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PRESS RELEASE FROM ANC ON WASTEFUL EXPENDITURE

In a press release issued by Councillor A. Shaikh, Media and Communication Officer Inkosi Bhambatha region he states: “The region strongly condemns the dictatorial manner in which Umvoti Mayor Ngubane imposed his wishes for the annual Councillors/senior officials year end function.

Historically, for many many years, including year, a small budget has been allocated for this function held for a maximum of 30 Councillors and senior officials who attended. However, this year the Mayor has seen fit to invite some 300 guests which would include amakhosi ,izinduna, ward committee members and others.This party at R150 to R200 per head would cost an unbudgetted R60 000and is typical irresponsible financial behaviour to further throw this town into debt.

At a public meeting called by the ANC last Thursday to target the minorities a frank and incisive discussion took place on affirmative action; lack of opportunities in the area for youth -covering jobs and entertainment;the town’s brain drain and crumbling infrastructure. Guest speaker, John Jeffries, the Deputy President’s parliamentary Counsellor, undertook to look into the matters raised and return with answers.

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Update on Greytown/Pmb detour

Just in time for Christmas Department of Transport predict that the detour could be a thing of the past by 23rd December! A spokesman for the Department told the Greytown GAzette that:”The backfilling is going fine except for rain days

The plan of action is:

•We will try to finish up to the stabilized layer by the 23rd December, prime and open the road for Christmas, only if rain is not disturbing.

•The contractor will finish his earthworks on Monday, 13 December and start putting stabilized layers

•They will do sub-soil drainage when they come back next year as I have asked them to concentrate on backfilling

We have encountered one problem which is the seepage (leaching) of water through from backfilling of the existing material (selected), I have also instructed them to continue and rectify the problem when we come back next year but the plan is to have sub-soil drainage across the road at a low point

The dump trucks are no longer on site

The plan date now is 23 December 2010.

The amount of fill excavated and reinstated/replaced was in the region of 40 000m3 which also required extensive blasting.”

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GREYTOWN CRICKET CLUB RESULTS

Greytown played against Mooi River on Sunday 5th December and elected to bat first. The team scored 170 runs all out.Top scorer Jacques Breytenbach gave another great batting display on 51 not out.

Following the tasty lunch, sponsored by Umvoti Tyres, Mooi River went into bat .Some impressive bowling saw Mooi River struggling from the start -they were all bowled out for 116.

John Lloyd Rawstorne took 3 wickets, Kyle Edkins another 3,Louis van Rooyen 2 wickets and Ryan Wessels also two.

Greytown won by 54 runs.

Thanks to the club’s main sponsor Mascor, Greytown Beer Distributors for the cold beers after the match and Umvoti Tyres for lunch. Thanks also to Greytown High School for the facilities.

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HOME SECURITY TIPS

Police are advising residents to pay more attention to the safety of their homes particularly with the approach of the holidays and have issued the following tips on how to improve security at home.

Fences/Walls

Ø Ensure that gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be reached easily and are not lying around ..

Ø Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door as well as burglar proofing covering all windows recommended.

Alarm Systems

Ø An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company.

Ø In the rural areas a siren/alarm on the roof that can be heard over a long distance and that can be activated by means of a switch/panic button in the house, is recommended.

Ø A few switches/panic buttons in different rooms of the house should preferably be installed.

Security Lights

Ø Security lights on the outside of the house improve the physical protection of a house, farm or smallholding.

Ø The lights must be directed away from the house and must allow the occupants to use the windows without being observed from outside. Be aware of possible shadows and blind spots.

Safety Precautions

Ø Ensure that all doors are locked at all times, and that windows are closed when you are not at home.

Ø Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house.

Ø If you leave your residence, inform your family/ neighbours of destination, time of return and the route you will be driving.

Ø Ensure that tools such as axes, spades, picks, ladders, etc that can be used in an attack, are locked away when you do not use them.

Ø Vary your daily routine.

Ø You should not be visible in the bedroom from the outside when you are asleep.

Ø Always keep a torch nearby at night and when you use it, ensure that you do not give away your position.

Ø If you are unsure about the security status of your home after returning from work/a visit, eg your dogs do not come to the gate, do not enter your home. .

Ø Identify relatively safe places of refuge, ie: bathroom, toilet or storeroom.

Ø Involve employees as they are part of the family/team.

Ø Report suspicious behavior and information to the South African Police Service.

Ø Clear the areas around the gates of bushes and other hiding places.

Ø Take photographs of all employees. It could be to your advantage to identify them, if required. Keep copies of all your employees’ IDs.

Ø Do not employ casual workers without a reference.

Access and Key Control

Ø Do not allow strangers on your premises or in your house without having properly identifying the person, especially at night.

Ø Implement proper key control measures. Identify keys by means of codes instead of indicating in writing on labels to which gate/door access can be gained.

Ø Keys to the safe must be kept on the person.

Ø Never hide any keys in traditional places, such as in pot plants or under doormats.

Ø Keys in the keyhole on the inside of the front or back door should be turned to avoid easy removal.

Ø Change locks when keys are lost.

Ø Insert barring devices in door locks.

.

Communication

Ø Have the telephone installed where it is easily accessible from anywhere in the house. Inform your children not to give an indication that adult supervision is not available when they answer the phone.

SAPS CRIME STOP : 08600 10111

SAPS EMERGENCY LINE : 10111

UMVOTI 911 EMERGENCY:033 417 2911

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NOVEMBER WEATHER DETAILS

For weather watchers who miss the weekly weather chart which is no longer published in the Greytown Gazette this monthly summing up of temps and rainfall as recorded by Ram Bhagdath, PANNAR Research Data Processor should be of interest:

There were some real scorchers - highest temp recorded was 35.81 on Wednesday 3rd November, the day before Tuesday the 2nd had been a fraction cooler on 34.38.Then there was a 34.69 on the 8th and a somewhat hotter 35.39 on Sunday 21st.

.On the other end of the scale, coolest (not cold) maximum temps recorded were 13.88 on Wednesday 10th and 14.5 on Wednesday 24th.

Rainfall for the month was 111.07-i interestingly enough the highest amount recorded was on the coldest day of 13.88.

Rainfall for December has gotten off to a great start -29.6 just from midnight on 3rd to 10 a.m..

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Latest AIDS stats

Latest statistics from KZN Department for Health, on state of HIV infection in the Province as follows:

KZN has the highest HIV prevalence in South Africa and accounts for 28% of SA HIV infection;

The province also has the highest TB disease burden;

More than 70% of medical admissions are HIV related;

People between the ages of 20 – 24 years continue to be the highest infected by the virus and women are infected at their prime age of 20 – 24 years whereas their male counter parts are infected later at 25 – 29 years;

The amounts of money committed to fighting HIV have been growing over the years with more than R2 billion allocated in the current financial year;

A total of 10 229 MMC have been conducted since April 2010 and the target for 2010/11 is 372,754

345 604 people are on Anti-retro viral therapy which makes the province to have the largest programme.

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SUNSATIONAL SALVIAS

If its bold, vibrant colour you want in the garden, coupled with a tough disposition then salvias are the answer. Out of a big family one member is particularly noteworthy – Salvia splendens – commonly known as scarlet salvia or rooi-salie, it also comes in shades of red, purple, pink, cream, white and blue.

Not only are salvias easy to grow, with their showy flowers and deep green leaves, they make an ideal addition to the summer garden. This eye-catching annual offers glorious, long-flowering heads 30cm tall. If you are looking for something smaller look out for the compact hybrids – ideal for edging and containers. They flourish in full-sun positions and once established, they will withstand high summer temperatures. For best results plant your seedling in well-drained, composted soil which gets regular watering, particularly during dry spells.

The plants are spectacular in mixed herbaceous-borders and patio pots, or interspersed with shrubs and perennials. Salvias will bloom year-round in sub-tropical climates, but being frost-tender, are grown as annuals on the Highveld.

Plant your seedlings from spring and enjoy magnificent displays of enduring colour. If you cut the plants back after each flowering, blossoming will continue into early autumn.

Information Supplied by the Bedding Plant Growers Association. Go to www.lifeisagarden.co.za for more.

 

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PANNAR SCORES DECADE IN ARGENTINA

This December, PANNAR Argentina celebrates 10 year anniversary having being established in 2000 in Vernado Tuerto, in the Argentine province of Santa F. It has been one of the PANNAR Group’s fastest growing foreign companies.

“We are proud of what PANNAR Argentina has achieved since its inception 10 years ago. Just as in the past, there will continue to be significant challenges as we move forward, however I am confident that, with the continued dedication of our staff, we will continue to build our business in Argentina”, stated International Director, Andrew Jarvie in Greytown.

PANNAR Argentina started plant breeding activities in the 2001/2 season and today operates two research stations in the Venado Tuerto county. It produces and markets maize, sunflower, grain sorghum and forage sorghum seed. The company’s research and development efforts are evidenced by being a five-time winner in the maize silage category of the National contest for silage and hay forages at Mercolactea, the largest dairy expo in South America.

This year there has been a lot of contact between the company and its South African headquarters. Winners of PANNAR SEED roadside demonstration competition thoroughly enjoyed their week-long tour to Argentina, whilst Argentinean customers, Estancias La Gloriosa and Sergio Plesnicar, who won first and second place respectively, in the company’s annual sunflower yield contest, won a trip to South Africa to attend the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The PANNAR Group has evolved into a global player of significance over the past 50 years, with companies in Europe, America, Argentina and nine African countries - South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique (which also celebrates its 10 year anniversary this year), Zimbabwe, Kenya, Malawi, Lesotho, Swaziland and Tanzania.

PANNAR’s ongoing commitment to improved grain production, positions the company well to meet the challenges of the future.

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NEW SPONSOR FOR WARTBURG MOUNTAIN BIKING

Wartburg mountain biking gets a sponsorship boost

Mountain biking, which is a rapidly growing sport in the KZN midlands, has received a significant boost with the news that Cyclelab has stepped in as title sponsor for the mountain bike race in Wartburg. The Wartburg cycle race has been on the mountain biking race calendar since 2005, as a fund raising event for Wartburg Kirchdorf School.

It has grown from a small country town race to a significant event on the KZN midlands racing calendar, drawing over 1200 entrants in 2010.

Sponsorship of the Wartburg MTB race comes from the newly opened Pietermaritzburg branch of Cyclelab, which is located in Commercial Road. The new store which has the backing of a well respected national franchise, will benefit from the local exposure that a title sponsor of the Wartburg race will enjoy.

The race, now known as the Cyclelab Wartburg MTB Classic, will be held on 26 February 2011.

ENDS

COMMEMORAITNG WORLD AIDS DAY IN UMVOTI

PANNAR showed its support for World AIDS Day on 1 December by holding a fun walk and participating in the AIDS Business Bannerthon.

On Wednesday the PANNAR peer educators led a supportively-clad group of staff on a brisk walk of the grounds as they chanted “Phansi iNgculazi Phansi”.

There are twelve active peer educators who, in providing HIV-related education, counselling and support in the workplace, are in many respects at the forefront of the fight against the epidemic. They equip employees with the necessary information to take appropriate preventative or remedial action.

After the fun walk Umvoti AIDS Centre in conjunction with Princess Shezi gave an informative presentation with the goal of stimulating further awareness and generating new knowledge of HIV and AIDS. The discussion highlighted the importance of knowing your HIV status and the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, relating the discussion to the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign.

The AIDS week Bannerthon concept, launched in 2001, was developed to get the business community to visibly show their solidarity and support in the war against AIDS while simultaneously raising money for AIDS orphans. For further information please refer to the website at www.bannerthon.org.za.

These AIDS Day efforts are underpinned by PANNAR’s extensive AIDS awareness programme and an AIDS policy.

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16 days of violence activism

Umvoti community groups worked together to spread the word of no violence against women and children with members of the Greytown Police Youth Desk and Umvoti AIDS Centre involving hundreds of men and women in promoting the message not only for the 16 days of activism but forever. UAC attracted many to the marches in Matimatolo and Eshane after which, a candle was lit, and men and women committed themselves to a violence free year.

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GNOMING IN THE DECEMBER GARDEN

We are now really hitting the Christmas season and although we are grateful for the rain we are still needing a lot more.

So make this month a water saving Month..

The boring subject of MULCHING where ever possible will really save water as the mulch covers the soil and saves it from drying out.At the same time, the mulch becomes a compost heap busily rotting , therefore putting a large amount of humus back into the soil.

There have been such strong winds in the past few weeks. Staking with really strong wooden stakes and metal droppers, hammered well into the soil, then tied with old panty hose, hopefully will provide enough support to stop any further damage caused by the wind.

Once a month fertilize your roses with a general purpose rose fertilizer. There are some very good ‘all in one’ fertilizers especially for roses. Others for vegetables, lawns, flowers, these take a lot of headaches out of what to apply and when.

Spraying your roses with a fungal spray is essential now. I do not always spray for insects but look before I decide what to spray. If you are going away certainly use an insecticide. Some people seem to keep aphids at bay with Sunlight liquid but that has not been successful for me. Maybe for a few days but never longer.

A wetter or spreader is also necessary. If it looks like rain do not spray and only spray in the early hours of the morning, if it looks as though it could get hot or late afternoon.

I always add a foliar feed to the spray, like Worm wee or one of any well known foliar feeds on the market.

Weeding is a priority at the moment as boring as it is! I never use weedicides as I really do think unless you know what you are doing more harm than good can occur. If you do use them make sure the instructions on mixing are carefully adhered to.

Daisy bushes are coming into their own now , they add such a splash of colour to any garden. They do go lank after a season and really need to be pulled out and replaced. To cut them back hoping they will come right has never worked for me..

The vegetable patch should be good now. Plant only what you need remember to plant a little regularly thus giving you a continual supply.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS WITH NOT TOO MULCH TO EAT OR DRINK!

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GRAND FINALE TO CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

It has been a most successful year of celebrations to commemorate the centenary of the Shri Vishnu Mandir in Greytown with the climax last Saturday the launch of the special anniversary brochure at a gala dinner. Dignitaries from different organisation in Greytown and KZN were present.

Co-inciding with the Centenary year is the celebrations of 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first Indentured Indians in the country. Adding to the special impact of the occasion many of those present are family of the original settlers -fourth and even fifth generation who have been so interwoven with the history and development of this area and the province.

Guest speaker, Dr I.Bedassi delivered an informative and interesting talk on the 1860 settlers, their trials and tribulations and their contribution to the country.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the evening was the launch of the Centenary Souvenir Brochure and the Bhajan CD volume 5. Considerable excitement was generated as the first copy was auctioned with fierce bidding taking place between a Pietermaritzburg and a Greytown bidder who was the successful one with a final bid of R10 500.

After a tasty dinner guests were entertained to an enjoyable range of songs and music by the popular Ajesh Kumar Showband.

The gala dinner was an impressive finale to a very successful year of celebrations.

Lighting the lamp to start the gala evening, Pandit Mishra, president of Mandir, Mrs R. Aheer, and executive members V.D. Roopai, D.R. Aheer, P.D. Roopai, V. Maharaj and Mrs Bhagdath

MURDEROUS START TO FESTIVE SEASON.

Hi-jacking is reported to be the motive behind the murder of a Msinga Top principal Mr Thokozani Ndlovu on 16th November in Muden. Three men were arrested for the murder two days later. Xolani Mkhize and Tholinkosi Zakwe appeared in Greytown Magistrate’s Court on Monday 22nd on charges of murder and vehicle theft. The third man, who was arrested on the 18th was freed by the Court.

On Tuesday 16th Mr Ndlovu evidently borrowed a bakkie to drive to Msinga after his own vehicle had broken down. It is reported that he had collected the two accused in Greytown to repair his vehicle which was in Glencoe. Whilst travelling through Muden, it is alleged that Mkhize and Zakwe forced Mr Ndlovu to stop the vehicle and get out. They then assaulted him with stones -he died of head injuries. Mr Ndlovu’s body was found lying in an open field in Tshekani, Muden -his shoes and cellphone, as well as the vehicle had been stolen

54 year old Mr Ndlovu, who was principal of Mahedeni Primary School, was from Glencoe and had served as Principal since 2003.

Mkhize and Zakwe have been remanded in custody as Police investigations continue.

Yet another teacher from Msinga was brutally killed on Sunday21st November. 35 year old Bhekizenso Ndlyane, who taught at Somashi High School, was shot down in cold blood by an unknown gunman. Mr Ndlyane was gunned down outside his cottage which is on the school premises. It is reported that a gunman walked up to him, and, without saying a word, fired pointblank hitting him in the chest.

At the time of going to press no motive had been established.

Taxi conflict in the Harburg/Dalton area is thought to be the motive behind the shooting of 55 year old Skhulu Thusi last Tuesday. Police were called to the R613 main road near Fawnleas at 1.30 p.m. -they found the body of Thusi, a taxi driver, on the driver side of a minibus taxi parked on the side of the road. Investigations revealed that Thusi had been transporting 15 passengers from the Dalton taxi rank when on the main road two passengers told him to stop as they wanted to get off. After he had stopped the taxi, one of the two, produced a firearm and fired a shot which killed Thusi

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Branch Commander D/Warrant Officer Sipho Gcabashe, SAPS Harburg on 033 506 1043 or 082 459 9891.

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Inkosi Bhambatha multi million rand sports complex

A multi million rand sports complex to honour the memory of Inkosi Bhambatha kaMancinza Zondi, was unveiled by MEC for Art, Culture and Sports, Mrs Weziwe Thusi on 19th November in Ngome.

This project is being funded by Department of Sport and Recreation to the tune of R4 million rand and is also supported by SA Breweries donating R500 000 for the construction of an eight-a-side legacy soccer field covered with artificial turf.

It is an initiative aimed at honouring the role played by Inkosi Bhambatha in the struggle for the emancipation of the people of Msinga -his resistance to repressive laws later inspired the struggle for liberation. In the first phase costing 1.5 million rand, the huge sportsfield was levelled and fenced - the project will be completed with the further R2.5 million pledged by the MEC.

Not only will the facility benefit local teams, schools and the community at large, catering for football, athletics,netball, basketball and volleyball but will also be used for the sports mass participation programmes of the Department, Municipal and community activities.

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SHADOW COLUMN

Greytown Gazette publishes a monthly Shadow Column listing events to take place throughout the year. Main objective is to notify the public of what is scheduled to take place, or about to, and to avoid,as far as possible, “double dating” -that is two events on the same day which could create problems not only for the organisers but also the public.

An appeal therefore to all schools, Churches, ngo’s, sports bodies, clubs etc. to submit dates and event details to the Greytown Gazette for publication.

Please note this a FREE service to the community.

DECEMBER

1st; WORLD AIDS DAY

3rd: Christmas Krackers

4th:Monthly Mug Greytown

7th:Carol evening and market Wembley

9th:Wembley prizegiving

12th:Role Hill men's doubles tennis

15th:Christmas issue Greytown Gazette

16th:Day of Reconciliation

17th:Greytown Gazette office closes

17th: Umvoti Carol service:St Peters Church

JANUARY

6th January:Greytown Gazette office re-opens

13th: First issue Greytown Gazette

19th: Schools open for 1st term

23rd: PANNAR mixed doubles tennis

FEBRUARY

11th:Umvoti Garden Club meeting:Rose hurst PMBG

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GREYTOWN CRICKET CLUB NEWS

Bad weather led to the match on Sunday between Greytown and Richmond ending in a draw. Playing on Greytown High School field Richmond batted first and were bowled out for 213. Best bowling went to M.van Rooyen with five wickets for 40.

Greytown batted second but due to bad weather the match was drawn. Best batting figures was by Jacques Breytenbach with 81 not out.

Greytown Cricket club would like to thank its main sponsor, Mascor; H2B plumbing for sponsoring the lunch and Spot on Liquor for the drinks.

A big thank you to Greytown High School for the use of its facilities.

Next game will be played at the High School on Sunday 5th December

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ST CATHRYNS NEWS

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Farmers Agri- Care Monthly Mug was played on Saturday 27 November. A first for midlands golf was that St Cathryn’s club produced 100% attendance from the ladies section with all four of our ladies playing in the mug. We also had a good field of eighteen players with only three golfers visitors. The Boks better rugby performance at Twickenham delayed prizegiving to half-time of the match.

Weather was very hot and greens were bumpy - (verticutting done on Tuesday) made for grumpy and hot golfers. But looking at the results....the best of the very best St Cathryn’s golfers were in the prizes ...once again.

Results:

1st Barry Oehme Nett 63

2nd Piet Nel nett 67( very hot after the Gauteng Tour)

3rd Alice Steyn nett 68

4th Justin Wills nett 71

5th Rikus Kloppers nett 72

Captains Putter Tanya de Bruin.

Nearest to Pin 9/18th : Mbongeni Khumalo

Nearest to pin for two 8th : Paul Els.

Two clubs : Justin Mills Mbongeni Khumalo.

December Farmers Agri- Care Monthly Mug will be played on Saturday 18 December after which the AGM will be held and Mug of Mugs will be played on Sunday 19th December. All mug winners from the last season to pick caddies from the captains putters list of golfers .

The family golf outing is to Umhlali golf club on Wednesday the 29th December . We have booked for three four balls .While the ladies are enjoying a day on the beach or unlimited credit card access at the shopping centre, we as golfers will be playing in a three ball alliance competition.

To book for golf please phone Piet 033 4441945 or 083 269 1661 and to book for meals please phone Paul 084 5966 292.

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DON’T MAKE IT EASY FOR A HI-JACK

Some the do’s and don’t's to remember to avoid being an easy target for criminals:

DO’S

Always travel with the car doors locked.

Ø Keep all windows closed or, at most, not open more than would allow a hand to fit through.

Ø Leave enough room between your car and the one in front to avoid being boxed in.

Ø Remain in your car if it is hit from behind. Inspect any damage only once you are sure it is not a hijack attempt

Ø Attract the attention of other motorists or pedestrians if you think you are in danger...use your hooter, flash lights,put on emergency lights or shout.

Ø Be aware of anybody who approaches your car or is loitering near traffic lights, stop streets, parking areas or your driveway. Constantly monitor what vehicles are travelling behind, ahead and next to you. More than one vehicle could be involved and they could be setting a trap to stop you.

Ø If you suspect that you are being followed, you should ideally drive to the nearest police station. If this is not possible, drive to another safe place, even a Petrol Station, but don’t go home.

Ø If approached by a suspicious - looking person, especially at night or in lonely areas, drive off quickly from a stop street or intersection, always heeding traffic danger. Report any suspicious looking strangers and vehicles to the police. Give a description of the occupants and their vehicle.

DON’TS

Ø Don’t stop at the scene of an accident unless you are convinced that it is genuine. Accidents can be “set up” so that that you will stop to assist. Sometimes a “body” is placed next to the road. Rather drive on and report the incident at the nearest police station. Slowing down too much may also make you vulnerable.

Don’t enter your garage or a parking area if you believe you are being followed.

Ø Don’t stop if, for example, a passer-by indicates that your car has a flat tyre or other defect. Drive to the nearest service station or safe area and check it there.

Ø Don’t pick up hitchhikers or unknown passengers.

Ø Don’t leave your car door open and the engine running while opening your garage door or gates - criminals can act quicker than you’d expect.

SAPS CRIME STOP : 08600 10111

SAPS EMERGENCY LINE : 10111

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WARTBURG KIRCHDORF SCHOOL NEWS

----- Congratulations to Tarini Kandhai on being awarded a Harvard Business School Scholarship. Tarini , a Grade 12 learner, has been awarded a full three year Scholarship to study Business and Commerce at Harvard Business School in Boston, America. She is very excited about her future and cannot wait to embark on this new journey of hard work and self discovery.

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From the ditch

Friday night bowls is alive and well with more and more new players “rolling” up! Weather permitting it seems that the Friday night bowls is becoming more popular than the official Saturday afternoon bowls!

More interesting is the fact that we will soon have “Scholars Bowls”. Immediately after all the exams we will have scholars on the greens. Wembley College, Hermannsburg and Greytown School have all shown an interest. Anyone who has not been approached and would like to join the holiday novice bowls can contact the club as there are various members who would gladly assist. There are spare bowls at the club, all that is required is flat shoes and a hat if it is hot and sunny.

The recent test series played against Namibia will be broadcast on Super Sport. For all those interested is sitting back and watching this wonderful game on the box should diarise the following dates and times:-

30 December 2010 19h00 - 19h30 ss 5

31 December 2010 15h00 - 15h30 ss 5

3 January 2011 - 11h00 - 11h30 ss 6

4 January 2011 - 18h30 - 19h00 ss 6

5 January 2011 - 09h30 - 10h00 ss 1

6 January 2011 - 16h00 - 16h30 ss 6

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