Animal Anti-Cruelty League calls for awareness and support during Animal Anti-Cruelty Month (April)

April is Animal Anti-Cruelty Month, and the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL) is appealing to the public to increase their awareness of abandoned, harmed or injured animals, and support their organisation that provides a vital service to animals who are unable to fend for themselves.

The AACL currently looks after 44 stray cats and 34 stray dogs which have either been brought in by members of the public or rescued from cruel and unsafe environments.

Importantly the organisation also works tirelessly in economically disadvantaged communities and conducts sterilizations and vaccinations, deworming, and flea- and tick-dipping of dogs and cats supporting people who are unable to provide this kind of primary health care for their pets. They have a robust inspectorate that investigates acts of cruelty to animals, removing them, providing medical attention, and rehabilitating them.

“Companion animals, like cats and dogs, are protected by the anti-cruelty provisions of Section 2(1) of the Animal Protection Act 1962,” explains GM of the ACCL (Durban and Pietermaritzburg), David Rogers. “We act as a compassionate and pro-active entity to intervene where we find animals being ill-treated, neglected, cruelly beaten, teased or terrified, or if it has been confined in a way that it is suffering, or neglected or abandoned in circumstances likely to cause unnecessary suffering.”

“It is often exhausting, sad, and emotionally draining working in this environment, but the rewards are big when we have the successes in our rehabilitation, and adoption processes,” says Rogers. “The service we provide is entirely dependent on the funds we can raise, and the wonderful support we have from a body of dedicated volunteers to help to make things easier for the animals.”

Rogers explains that all animals that can be rehabilitated, are up for adoption by the public, with necessary checks done on the new owners.. They also offer boarding facilities in their magnificent kennels at a reasonable price which helps towards their fundraising efforts.

The facilities are set amongst the picturesque countryside in Hammarsdale, providing a safe, quiet space for animals to be rehabilitated, and treated. To help towards their fundraising endeavours the AACL has a bustling tea garden, a well-stock and beautifully curated charity shop, a large pool (for use for a R20 donation), and conference and function facilities for small groups.

Next weekend, on Sunday, April 14 the AACL hosts their highly popular Dog Walk and Market from 8am to 1pm at their premises, 53 Artesia Avenue, D657 Road, Hammarsdale. There is a R50 early bird entrance fee (R60 on the day) which includes the walk, a market with crafts, clothes, second-hand goods, food, and fun activities for children. (Children under 12 are free).

The League is appealing to the public, businesses, and corporates to donate to the organisation to support this vital work they do for animals, that are unable to fight for themselves.

Donation information and more information about the work the AACL does can be found on https://www.aacl.co.za/branches-durban-pietermaritzburg/

Above: Jessica Jolley, a visitor to the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL), cuddles one of 44 stray cats currently housed there. April is Animal Anti-Cruelty Month and the AACL is appealing for donations to support the work they do to help animals in need.

Below: April is Animal Anti-Cruelty Month and Nomathembu Gumede, animal handler and volunteer Rachel Rabie at the Durban and Pietermaritzburg branch of the Animal Anti-Cruelty League (AACL), demonstrate what a little love and care can do to help stray animals as they cuddle some of the 44 cats currently housed there. The AACL is appealing for donations to support the work they do to help animals in need.

Photos by Val Adamson

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What does Harvard Electrical stock?
* Domestic and Industrial Electrical Components
* Motor Control Equipment
Contactors
Overloads
Relays
Auxiliaries
Coils
DOL Starters & Manual Motor Starters
* Change Over Switches - Single & 3 Phase
* Electrical Cables (SABS approved) ECC, Surface, Comms, Cabtyre, RG6 etc
* Lighting – Indoor & Outdoor Light Fittings
* Heaters & Fans
* DIY Electrical Tools and Accessories
* Distribution Boards and Enclosures
* Circuit Breakers - Din & Samite Single & 3 Phase
* Light Switches and Sockets (Domestic & Industrial)
* LED, Energy Saver and Incandescent Lamps
* HellermannTyton Tools & Instruments
* LIGHTING: Radiant, Eurolux, Bright Star, Spazio & Pioled & Outdoor Lighting
* Access Control

Showroom now open!

Specials as illustrated below are available from 8 March 2024, while stocks last!!!

Olympic places on the line at SA Swimming Championships in Gqeberha

The country's top swimmers head to Gqeberha next week for the National Championships which this year take on extra importance as they serve as Olympic trials ahead of Paris 2024.

Among them, and looking to confirm his spot at a fourth Olympic Games, is veteran Chad le Clos. The 31-year-old has returned to the country from his training base in Frankfurt, Germany and says being at home for the past week has made all the difference.

“It’s been a little bit hard being away for so long. So it’s good for me to be at home, to get my head back in the game, have some sunshine, eat my dad’s food and be around the family,” admitted the four-time Olympic medallist.

“Everything is good. I’ve had a massive block of training, especially since the world champs so I might be a little bit overcooked in the sense of training but I’m ready for next week. I think it’s going to be good.

“I’m not expecting to set the world alight… But it would be good to defend those titles and see what happens and go from there,” added Le Clos who has entered the 100 and 200m butterfly and the 100m freestyle.

Also looking forward to the week ahead is young gun Pieter Coetzé who was the country’s only medallist at the recent World Aquatics Championships in Doha, picking up a bronze in the 200m backstroke.

“I’m feeling very good heading into trials. I’ve been doing some good training and it’s been tough but it’s always good to be positive so I’m looking forward to racing again,” said the 19-year-old.

“I’ve got some good memories in the PE pool, so I’m feeling confident. I wouldn’t really say I’m hoping for anything but I’d like to put up some good performances and boost my confidence heading towards Paris.”

Coetzé famously qualified for the delayed 2020 Olympics in the same Gqeberha pool at the age of just 16.

Also looking to boost her confidence ahead of Paris is breaststroke queen Tatjana Schoenmaker (Top image), who chose to skip the World Championships in February but will be looking to defend her Olympic title in the 200m breaststroke in the French capital later this year.

Fellow breaststrokers Kaylene Corbett and Lara van Niekerk will also be in the mix. Corbett finished fifth in the same race that Schoenmaker won her Olympic gold and set a world record, while Van Niekerk is gunning for a place at her first Olympic Games.

“I am looking forward to building on my performances from World Champs,” said Van Niekerk. “There are lessons me and my coach took from my races and now we want to implement them at Nationals and see how fast I can go.

“But as always, I am just focusing on giving my best and then I will think about Paris,” added the two-time Commonwealth Games champion.
Swimming action begins at the Newton Park Swimming Pool on Monday, 8 April and will continue until Saturday, 13 April.

Photo credits: SA Sports Images/Anton Geyser

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Believe in You!

Do you have a dream you are too afraid to follow or that you have given up on because other people have told you it is unrealistic or that you can’t do it? Why do they say it won’t work? Is it because they don’t have the passion and desire to make it work? Imagine if Alexander Graham Bell or Steve Jobs had listened to all the nay sayers. We would never have had the telephone nor the personal computer.

Just because someone else does not have the same dream and belief in you as you do, does not mean that you must give up and live a life that adheres to the norms and limits of other people or society. The same applies to wanting to follow a particular career path or start a business. Each person is unique and has unique needs and aspirations. Too often we listen to the noise around us and although our family and friends give us advice and guidance with the best intentions, this may not be what is right for you. Pythagoras did not have to see that the earth was round to believe it, even though he was ridiculed. Many people still thought well into the 15th century that the earth was flat, yet Christopher Columbus still set off to sail around the earth.

Living your truth and following your dreams is about having a belief in yourself that despite what others say or think, you can succeed, and it does not mean that it is going to be smooth sailing, or you are not going to have bumps on your journey. Life on your terms means knowing what you want and setting the goals to achieve what you set out to achieve. It means believing in your dream with so much conviction that when you do hit a bump you get up and continue. It means instead of thinking about why something won’t work, rather thinking about how you can make it work or what you need to do to get to where you want to get to. It is about looking for the opportunities and working with what you have to overcome the obstacles.

Everyone of us has it in us to live the life we want to live and to be able to look back one day and be excited about what we have achieved, sometimes we just need someone to encourage and guide us to a space where it becomes a habit to see opportunity and have belief in ourselves. Life coaching provides the space to share your dreams, goals, and aspirations in a non-judgemental environment. Together we will explore what you need to do and how you can achieve your dreams. Let’s have a conversation and start working on who you want to be.

Sandra Nel - Life Coach

082 290 5640

Introducing our eco-friendly and stylish hemp bags! Made from 100% natural and sustainable hemp, these bags are perfect for everyday use while helping to reduce your carbon footprint. Our hemp bags are not only durable and long-lasting, but they also have a unique texture and look that sets them apart from traditional bags. Visit us in store today or get in contact for more!

All the best Autumn holiday road trips take a pleasant pause at The Ugly Duckling!

Worried about missing the “boing boing” of the Easter bunny, or the cracking of a frozen chocolate egg?

Make your appointment with Butlin Hearing for a FREE hearing screening or a comprehensive hearing test and, when necessary, let us assist you in choosing the hearing aid to best suit your needs. We have a range of hearing devices including the Signia Silk which fits discreetly inside the ear offering crystal clear sound in every situation.

Contact Claire in Howick on 033 330 3966, or Mark in Pietermaritzburg on 033 342 2330, and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!

BLACKWOODS Gardenette at Yard 41, Karkloof Road, Howick will be open on Saturday 30th March and again on Monday, 1st April during Easter 2024. The garden outlet will be CLOSED for Good Friday and for Easter Sunday. The highlight this year is an all-day Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday AND the BIG SHOPPER draw of a R1000 Blackwood's Voucher! 

MIDLANDS POWER EQUIPMENT - Take note of our closure dates for public holidays and Easter Weekend coming up. Should you need anything for the Easter Weekend, get it all before Thursday (28 March) at 4:30pm.
Our normal trading hours are:
Monday to Friday (7:30am - 4:30pm)
Saturday (8:00am - 12:00pm)
Sunday (Closed)

Contact us today:
2 Exchange Lane, Howick
033-3302504
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

MIDLANDS HOSPICE

Just a reminder that we will be closing at 12.00 on Thursday, March, 28th. Hospice House will be closed on Friday, March 29, and Monday, April, 1.

MIDLANDS TREATERY

NUTS ABOUT BOOKS & TOYS
Weekend Trading Hours
Friday 29th March: CLOSED
Saturday 30th March:
8.30am - 1pm
Sunday 31st March: CLOSED
Monday 1st April:
8.30am - 2pm

Find us at 3 Mare Street, Howick.

Save the date for our Open Day & 70 year celebration!
💙Saturday 13 April 2024
💙2-4pm
💙Midlands Veterinary Hospital
💙We will have some fun for the whole family from Hospital tours to Tea & Cake and even some fun kiddies activities!!!

As usual time is flying past, and you can already feel the nip of winter in the air in the mornings and evenings. It certainly makes for more pleasant playing conditions compared to the heat of the summer days.

Unfortunately, there was no wintery feeling in the air at all last week Tuesday when we hosted our J Leslie Smith & Company 2-4-2 competition. Despite the heat all 22 teams had a great morning of bowls and camaraderie and a wonderful morning was had by all. Congratulations to Stephanie Crause & Rusty Ikin who won first prize, followed by Alan & Sharon Willey in second place, and also to Ann Monarch & Rowena Muir who won the plate prize. A big thank you to J Leslie Smith & Company Inc for their ongoing support and while we’re about it we’d like to mention that they will be sponsoring a full day event at UWBC on the 21st of April. This is set to be a great day of 3 bowl trips with some great prizes up for grabs. Keep an eye out for more information or contact Lisa Nagel on 084 586 6984 to enter a team.

That’s all for this week… see you on the greens!

Events to keep an eye out for…

Saturday, 6 April: Greendale Spar Drawn Trips/Pairs. Tabs in 13h15
Wednesday, 10 April: Halfway Toyota Drawn Trips 4-3-2-1. Tabs In 13h15
Sunday, 21 April: J Leslie Smith & Co Sponsored Trips all day competition (Book with Lisa on 084 586 6984)
Friday, 26 April: Dormehl Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45 (Book with Pippa on 083 467 8140)

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h15
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

Visitors are always welcome. Coaching by registered coaches is available.

For more information contact Sharon on 082 900 5944.

Photo: Winners of the JLS Monthly 2-4-2 competition, Rusty Ikin & Stephanie Crause pictured with Lisa Nagel of JLS

More about Umgeni Waterfall Bowling Club

'Jessica Candler (Grade 10) and Megan Webb (Grade 9) participated in the CSA Provincial Women's Cricket Competition in Oudtshoorn recently, representing the KZN Inland Senior Provincial Women’s Team, the Tuskers.

Megan enjoyed an action-packed week of cricket, where she bowled for 12 overs and gained wonderful experience.

Jessica had a successful week achieving her personal best score with the bat making 56 not out against Boland, ending in 10th position and averaging 49. As the opening bowler, her economy rate was 2.6 runs per over and she took 6 wickets in the week. These results saw her finish in 24th position out of 136 ladies.

Age Quod Agis!' shared Howick High School.

Hi-Q Howick has rebranded as Tyremart Howick – and we are very excited about this change!

We are grateful for the amazing community in which we serve and the loyal customers we have, and this has motivated the change to Tyremart. We will now be able to offer you a wider selection of products with the same great service!

We are also proud to introduce “The Smurf” (Top image), our newly restored call-out vehicle. “The Smurf” has been a real labour of love over the last year for the team who have worked long and hard to restore her to her former glory – and beyond!

We are still 100% locally owned and managed – and we still have the same amazing team to serve you!

THE TYREMART TEAM IN HOWICK

Heading up the operation is Gary Steynberg (Middle image below), owner and manager of Tyremart Howick. Gary will mostly be found in the reception area manning the sales desk - although he spends much time in the workshop overseeing the work. Gary is passionate about his business and loves trouble shooting. Nothing satisfies him more than solving a customer’s problem.

Graydon Norris (aka Chuck - Top LHS in image below) is our multi-talented counter salesperson who always has a story (or ten!) to tell. Just a word of warning though: Do not get him started on his band days! Chuck comes with a wealth of experience in the tyre industry.

Aronel Beukes (Bottom RHS) is our Administrator, working behind the scenes to make sure our paperwork is all in order! You may come across her in reception making herself and her colleagues a cup of coffee, but normally Aronel is hidden up in her office overlooking the workshop.

Shane Rykart (aka Ken - Middle of top row below) joined the business two years ago as our alignment technician. We are truly fortunate to have him in our team as he is an expert in his field. Shane has a passion for cars and anything vehicular and mechanical!

Sibusiso Ndlovu (aka Sbu/Rasta - RHS Middle row below) has been with the business from the very outset and is an invaluable part of the Tyremart Howick team. He is our legendary dreadlocked star welder!

Sibonelo Sikhakhane (aka Mechanic - LHS bottom row) has also been with us from Day One! He is our general all-round workshop and tyre guy, stepping in and stepping up wherever he is needed.

Ceboh Xulu (aka Shifting - LHS middle row below) Shifting is also our general all-rounder helping out wherever he can. He has become an integral part of our team.

Tristian Uys (aka Barbie - Middle of bottom row in image below) is our newest team member, having joined us just over a year ago This sailor boy has made his services available to The Greater Ambers on behalf of the Tyremart Howick team and we are grateful for his initiative! He can also be seen around town in “The Smurf” (the VW caddy that our team has restored) attending to call-outs.

Zandile Mvubu – Zandile’s smiling face is ever-present around the shop, whether she’s keeping things clean and tidy or making sure that there is a constant supply of coffee, popcorn and slushy. (RHS of top row below.)

More about TYREMART HOWICK

Working with ToPS Species (Threatened or Protected Species).

So how do we know our rehabilitation processes work...?

Well, when we get feedback like this photo from Roy in the Fort Nottingham area, we know we're doing it right!!

This Serval, identified by its ear tag as well as its spot patterns, was released in February 2023, more than a year ago. It has been sighted twice since, this pic taken yesterday, no more than 500m from the point of release. Looking healthy and strong.

We love what we do, and how we do it...

FreeMe WIldlife

When it comes to sunscreen, everyone has different views and preferences. With so many differing sun protection habits and opinions, how do you know which is the best sunscreen for your skin? Between different lifestyles, plus various skin types, tones, and concerns, there’s a lot to consider when choosing a sunscreen. ISDIN South Africa, a leading brand in dermatology and known for its innovative and exemplary sunscreen range breaks down what makes a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen, to make your choice easier.

Firstly, it is important to note that “Sun damage significantly affects our skin. It can harm cells and proteins, contribute to skin cancer, and accelerate the skin’s natural aging process by up to 80%. So, whatever your age or skin type, there’s one thing that you should always include in your daily skincare routine: sunscreen,” explained Karlo Mitchell from Glenmark Pharmaceuticals.

What do Dermatologists look for in sunscreen?
Skin-boosting ingredients. To get the maximum benefit from your sunscreen, look for one with additional ingredients that boost overall skin health. The most advanced formulations now help care for your skin in other ways, adding peptides to help target signs of premature skin ageing, and antioxidants, for extra protection against oxidative skin damage.

The texture makes you want to wear it. The best kind of sunscreen is one you will want to apply every single day. And that’s where expert insights come into play. Dermatologists are always on top of the latest innovations in product texture — such as 100% mineral sunscreens that don’t leave behind a greasy, white residue and don’t burn your eyes.

The higher the SPF, the better. One of the biggest misconceptions about sunscreen is that if you have dark skin or more melanin, you don’t need to be using a high SPF. Everyone needs to be using a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30+. SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measurement of the amount of time that your sunscreen will help protect your skin from solar radiation. When making your choice, it’s best to look for a higher SPF, such as an SPF 50 or SPF 50+ sunscreen, as this increases the time it would take for your skin to burn when in direct sunlight.

Lastly, It’s broad spectrum. Meaning, it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are largely responsible for premature skin ageing, so they provoke changes in the skin, such as the appearance of wrinkles and sun spots. UVB rays are sometimes called burning rays, as they’re the culprit behind sunburn and tanning in your skin. Both types of rays can contribute to the risk of developing skin cancer. So, for the best all-over protection, be sure to choose broad spectrum sunscreens.

ISDIN will soon be releasing their highly sought-after and leading Fusion Water MAGIC SPF50 sunscreen in South Africa. This sunscreen is widely used by dermatologists as it encompasses all of the above key factors and is an ultra-light water-phase facial sunscreen. This new and improved sunscreen formulation melts into your skin without leaving a greasy residue or white cast. Skin boosting ingredients include Mediterranean Alga Extract and Vitamin E which offer antioxidant action, while hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration. It’s comfortable to wear as it’s an oil-free mineral sunscreen which won’t burn your eyes and has wet skin technology meaning you can apply this over wet skin and it will provide the same intense protection from the sun.

“Bottom line: To help protect your skin from sun damage and photoageing, a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen is a great place to start. Remember, the sun doesn’t take a day off! So, whichever type of sunscreen you choose, apply it daily, and apply it well,” concluded Mitchell.

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Meet Aphiwe Zondi, who, together with her sister Azola, joined the dog school a few years ago and has since then been a regular attendee.

We don't have many girls attending Funda Nenja, but Azola Zondi has been attending the weekly dog school for a few years now with Puppy, her much loved dog. This delightful young lady has a deep love of dogs, and the bond she shares with them is obvious for all to see. She is gentle and patient with Puppy, who despite the name, is getting on in years. Azola is a warm, friendly, and polite girl who is a valued member of the Funda Nenja family and a great ambassador for all that we stand for.

At the start of 2024, Aphiwe was invited to join the ranks of our instructors by becoming an intern as her excellent handling skills and commitment to Funda Nenja were recognised as an asset to the programme.

Aphiwe shared with us that she initially joined Funda Nenja when she saw other kids going to dog school every Friday and decided to follow suit as she was bored at home. She later came to realise that Funda Nenja cared not only for dogs but for people too, helping both wherever possible.

Aphiwe says she also enjoys the social side of the dog school, meeting new people and making new friends.

More about Funda Nenja

How to Minimise Waste This Easter Weekend

Whether you're a corporate event planner or a parent hosting a family party this Easter Weekend, you'll probably have your hands full with planning and preparations.

"This year, it's equally important to work waste management into your do," says Mpendulo Ginindza, President of the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA).

Countrywide Easter events can put a huge strain on the national waste management infrastructure and that's bad news for the environment. So, let’s commit to doing things differently this time around.

Planning a Zero Waste event
Planning for waste management means having the right mindset. You can be a waste-free event pro by following these guidelines from Mpendulo:
• Think Zero. Zero Waste means less than 80% of your event’s waste will go to a landfill.
• Research. Get online to learn what it takes to run a Zero Waste event or who can help you do it right.
• Educate. For larger events, make sure your team understands your waste goals and what is acceptable practice on the day. For smaller occasions, let your guests know what they can and cannot bring with them in your invitation.
• Reject. Don't hesitate to reject any vendor or product that does not live up to your Zero Waste standards.
• Reduce. Less is more! So, cut back on unnecessary items that would go unused anyway or shortly end up in a landfill.
• Reuse. Wherever possible, opt for tableware, packaging, decorations and other items that can be readily reused at your next event or stored away for next year.
• Return. Some vendors provide a variety of event items, from decorations and tableware to furnishings and equipment, that they collect or you return afterwards – sometimes even unopened consumables. Ask about your options.
• Recycle and compost. When you absolutely must use disposable items at your event, make sure they are certified as recyclable, biodegradable or compostable, and that you dispose of them in the appropriate receptacles or manner. At larger events, provide sufficient receptacles at key locations and post signs requesting their use.
• Donate. You might be done with your decorations and unused consumables but associations for the elderly, orphans or other underprivileged communities would love to reuse them to make the less fortunate happy too. Donations of unopened, fresh food are also always welcome.
• Promote. You can let your attendees or guests know about your Zero Waste policy in subtle and clever ways without looking like a stick in the mud. In today's environmentally aware society, they will most likely appreciate the gesture.
• Repeat. Whether you’re just eyeballing or seriously spreadsheeting, evaluate your waste reduction results and commit to doing even better next time.

Extra tips
• If you're hosting at an indoor or outdoor venue, check that the venue managers also follow a Zero Waste policy and offer the waste management amenities you demand.
• Compile a list of vendors with a good reputation for Zero Waste practices and let them know what you expect from them and their third-party providers.
• In today's online world, you can send great looking digital invitations and autotrack RSVPs by email, text message or shareable link. There are literally hundreds of online vendors specialising in this service and it's much easier than physical cards.
• Be authentic, when we are authentic is when we waste less.

Good, clean Easter fun

Wow, this Easter bash is going to be your best one yet, all because of your waste management skills. That's extra cause for celebration.

"The IWMSA thanks you for your efforts and wishes all South Africans a happy, safe and waste-free Easter," says Mpendulo.

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Howick High School recently hosted the U16 and U18 Midlands District Rugby trials on our stunning fields.

A number of schools participated, including Greytown, Treverton, Weston, Wembley, Wartburg, and Hermannesburg, amongst others.

It was an incredible platform for players to showcase their skills, and the level of play was impressive.

Howick High School is proud to share that the following boys have been selected to represent Midlands District teams:

U16: Ethan Galtrey, Zothani Goniwe, Letho Mbelu, Caleb Lukas, Ayabonga Mdakane

U18: Callum Moran, Tristan Heron, Thando Nkala, Elijah Wessels, Logan Reece, Jayden Trusler, Caleb Galtry

Age Quod Agis, boys!

More about Howick High

A magic morning in the Karklooof, thanks to the Karkloof Country Club A long steady climb up to the fire tower above Howick gave spectacular views over the Midlands. With a large group of super keen hikers, we broke into three groups - the fast, the ones who wanted to get home early and the stop and check out the fungi group. This hike catered for everyone!

Thank you to the three leaders for making this happen!

More about Midlands Hiking Club