The Bulletin News – Page 44

ANIMALS 101 – ANIMALS ARE NOT GIFTS

Columnist

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November 29, 2023

PETS SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN AS GIFTS OR BE A SURPRISE

The holiday season often tempts well-meaning individuals to gift animals—puppies for Christmas, bunnies for Easter, or kittens for birthdays. However, this seemingly heartwarming gesture can have serious consequences for both the animals and their unsuspecting recipients. In this article we will explore the reasons behind this cautionary stance and delve into the essential considerations for responsible pet ownership.

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT GIVE ANIMALS AS GIFTS

Whether acquired for personal satisfaction or intended as a surprise for a loved one, purchasing or taking animals on a whim is a risky endeavor. Here’s why:

Animals Are Sentient Beings, Not Commodities: Animals should never be treated as mere commodities or impulse buys. They are sentient beings with emotions and needs, and gifting them sends the wrong message, perpetuating the idea that they are disposable toys.

Pets Are Long-Term Commitments: Animals typically live 10-20 years or more for some species, requiring a substantial commitment of time, effort, and resources. Impulse purchases can lead to neglect or abandonment when the reality of this commitment sets in.

Shelter Overcrowding: Studies indicate that more than 10% of animals given as gifts end up in shelters shortly thereafter. In an already overwhelmed animal welfare system, this percentage adds strain, making it crucial to avoid unnecessary contributions to shelter overcrowding.

Children’s Interest and Responsibility: Children’s fleeting attention spans often align better with stuffed toys than living beings. The responsibilities of caring for a pet, such as daily exercise and attention, can be overlooked or underestimated.

ESSENTIAL CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE “GIFTING” A PET

Before deciding to gift an animal, it’s imperative to consider various factors to ensure the well-being of both the recipient and the pet:

Interest: Has the person expressed genuine interest in owning a pet?

Cost & Resources: Is the recipient financially stable and willing to commit to the financial responsibilities of pet ownership, including food, supplies, and veterinary care?

Time & Energy: Does the recipient have the time and energy to dedicate to daily care, interaction, and play? Consider their activity level and how often they are at home.

Space: Evaluate the living environment to ensure it is suitable for the specific needs of the animal. Check for any restrictions on pets.

The Future: Consider future plans, such as potential relocations, family expansions, or changes in financial situations.

Compatibility: Assess the recipient’s lifestyle and choose a pet that aligns with their needs and capabilities, especially energy-levels.

Age and Health: Ensure that the chosen pet is appropriate for the recipient’s age and that there are no health conditions that may conflict with pet care.

Other Pets: Consider whether the new animal will get along with existing pets in the household.

HOW TO POLITELY DECLINE OR HANDLE AN UNWANTED PET GIFT

Politely declining or addressing an unwanted pet gift is crucial to avoid unintended consequences for the animal. Here’s how:

Express Gratitude: Thank the giver sincerely for their thoughtful gesture.

Politely Decline: Clearly communicate that you are not ready for the responsibility of pet ownership at this time.

Responsible Surrender: As a last resort, if the giver insists, you can take the pet and responsibly surrender it to a shelter that can find a suitable home.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR RESPONSIBLE PET “GIFTING“.

If you are still considering giving a pet as a gift, adhere to these guidelines:

Direct Family Only: Limit pet gifts to direct family members who have expressed genuine interest in owning a pet.

Take Responsibility: Be willing to be the backup home for the pet if the recipient is unable to care for it.

Avoid Surprises: Never surprise someone with a pet; instead, ensure the new owner is prepared for the responsibility and all the animal’s needs.

Avoid Impulse: Resist the urge for impulse pet purchases. Consider adopting from a local shelter, and promoting responsible adoption processes.

Read more on having a pet emergency plan here.

The decision to gift an animal should not be taken lightly. The life of an innocent being is at stake, and your responsibility as a potential guardian is paramount. Remember, adopting from reputable organizations reduces the strain on shelters and contributes to responsible pet ownership.

THINK TWICE BEFORE GIFTING A PET

In conclusion, before presenting a pet as a gift, carefully weigh the implications and responsibilities involved. If you are not prepared to be a responsible pet owner or if the recipient is not ready for the commitment, it’s best to reconsider and not gift the animal. The joy of pet ownership should come from a well-thought-out decision, ensuring a happy and healthy life for both the pet and its owner.

Next week, we will look at pet loss and the grief that accompanies it.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER.

Truck driver fakes Highjacking.

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 28, 2023

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TRUCK DRIVER WHO ALLEGEDLY HIJACKED AND KIDNAPPED HIMSELF REMANDED IN CUSTODY

The truck driver who allegedly faked his hijacking and kidnapping in Breyten last month, October 2023 appeared in Ermelo Magistrate’s Court today Monday 27 November 2023.

The suspect Nkosana Glen Mathebula (37) was remanded in custody following further investigation.

Mathebula allegedly opened a case of hijacking and further alleged that his hijackers forced him to the company depot to refill his hijacked truck.

A thorough investigation was launched whereby it transpired that the hijacking was fake.

He was arrested in the early hours of Friday morning 24 November 2023 for perjury, trespassing, theft of diesel and defeating the ends of justice.

He made his first appearance today before Ermelo Magistrate’s Court where he was remanded in custody and his case postponed to Friday 01 December 2023 for further investigation.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela applauded the team of investigators who cracked the case. “Community members are urged not to report false cases as police will redirect resources of the state to the wrong place instead of assisting those who are really in need of services,” warned the General.

Kruik se Oggenddiens, 26 November 2023

Community news

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 26, 2023

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Welkom by Kruik se oggenddiens van 26 November 2026

Vanoggend se tema is “Jesus se wonderwerke”

Wat kan ons van Jesus se wonderwerke leer?

Maak ‘n finansiële bydrae op 2 maniere:

Gee Aanlyn (Kruik Gemeente, ABSA, Tjek, Rek nr: 1510140016)
Gee deur Zapper – vind ons QR code in die diens aankondigings.

Kontak ons gerus op Kruik Gemeente se Facebook Messenger en Whatsapp lyn (https://chat.whatsapp.com/IT9Ojl2rtXU…) of besoek ons webtuiste by: https://www.kruik.co.za

Geniet die diens saam ons!

Invitation | SMME SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT

Community news

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 24, 2023

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Dear valued stakeholder

Sasol Secunda invites you to a two-day Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Sustainability Summit which is focused on unpacking opportunities for small businesses.

This two-day summit is a platform to equip small business owners in the Mpumalanga region with information that will widen access to Sasol’s supply chain opportunities. Information will be shared on how to adhere to Sasol’s governance and processes in the procurement of goods and services.

You are invited to attend the summit as follows:

Kindly indicate your attendance by close of business on Monday, 27 November.

CRUEL MOTHER DUMPS BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL ON RAILWAY TRACKS

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 23, 2023

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CRUEL MOTHER DUMPS BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL ON RAILWAY TRACKS

A little baby girl was saved by her voice when she cried inside a maize meal bag which was dumped on the railway line at Belfast on Thursday 16 November 2023.

Security personnel were patrolling the railway line in Dalmanuta, Belfast when they heard a baby crying.

The security personnel’s attention was drawn to the infant’s voice. On investigation, the baby girl was found inside the maize meal bag.

Police and paramedics were summoned to the scene where the child was stabilised and referred to the medical facility for further attention.

Police call anyone who might assist in locating the baby girl’s mother to please contact Detective Constable Tinyiko Khoza on 082 469 1918 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111, alternatively, information can be sent via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated confidentially.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela condemned the act of child neglect especially when the country is about to honour the 16 days of actvism against women and children abuse and fermicide.

Local Brewing Company receives Silver medal at National Beer Trophy

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 22, 2023

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Local Brewing Company receives Silver medal at National Beer Trophy

Local brewing company, Lake Umuzi Brewing Co. entered the South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT) and was awarded a silver medal.

Lake Umuzi Brewing Co has grown from humble beginnings at Lake Umuzi to producing award-winning beers. Congratulations to Koos and Wimpie for the outstanding results.

Visit their site at: https://lakeumuzi.co.za/bars-lounges-secunda/homebrew-lab/

The following is from https://sanbt.com/

Thursday, 16 November, the beer industry gathered in Cape Town for a celebration of the best beers produced in South Africa. The South African National Beer Trophy (SANBT) has been an important event on the beer calendar since it was first awarded in 2015. In partnership with the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), the awards recognise local excellence in the art of brewing. BASA represents Heineken South Africa, South African Breweries, the Craft Brewers Association of South Africa and United National Breweries.

When the SANBT started in 2015, only 65 beers were entered. This year the judges had to choose from over 180 entries. “The quality of beer in South Africa has been drastically improving,” said JV Ridon, SANBT head organiser.

The overall champion was 1000 Hills Brewing Company’s “The Foreign Exchange Student” (“The FES”), a Belgian ale described by the brewers as “a strong and dark brew, with a hint of caramel and toffee, mildly bittered with Perle and Fuggles hops”.

The SANBT features a list of categories. Each category was evaluated based on the BJCP Style Guidelines, assessing factors such as aroma, appearance, flavour, mouthfeel, and overall impression. The category winners were as follows:

Best Light Beer: Jack Black Brewing Company’s “Brewers Lager”
Best Dark Beer: The Franschhoek Beer Company’s “The Stout”
Best Speciality Beer: 1000 Hills Brewing Company’s “The FES”
Best Hoppy Beer: Cape Brewing Company’s “CBC Pale Ale”
Best Red and Amber Beer: Richmond Hill Brewing Company’s “Two Rand Man Irish Red Ale”

BASA also sponsored two categories for Best No-Alcohol Beer (<0.5% ABV) and for Best Low-Alcohol Beer (< 3.9% ABV). The winners were:

Best Low Alcohol Beer: Darling Brew’s “Light Speed”
Best No Alcohol Beer: Devil’s Peak Brewing Company’s “Devil’s Peak Hero”

The following beers were awarded gold medals:

Hazeldean Brewing Co. – “Rasputin”
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “New Zealand 2”
SAB – “Castle Milk Stout”
Stellenbrau – “Craven Lager”
1000 Hills Brewing Co. – “The FES”
The Franschhoek Beer Co – “The Stout”
The Franschhoek Beer Co. – “La Saison”
Darling Brew – “Light Speed”
Cederberg Brewery – “Cederberg Original Lager”
Cape Brewing Co. – “CBC Pale Ale”
Richmond Hill Brewing Company – “Two Rand Man Irish Red Ale”
Jack Black Brewing Co. – “Brewers Lager”
Darling Brew – “Black Mist”
Doctrine Brewing – “Will-o’-the-Wisp”

The following beers were awarded silver medals:

Boet Beer – “Boet Lager”
Cape Brewing Co. – “CBC Pilsner”
Cape Brewing Co. – “Trueman Milk Stout”
Cape Brewing Co. – “CBC Lite Lager”
Cape Brewing Co. – “CBC Lager”
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “Garth’s Duvet
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “Summer”
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “Sherman”
Afro Caribbean Brewing Co. – “Groot Slang (version 2)”
Mad Giant Brewing Co. – “THAT Giant – Coffee Stout”
Darling Brew – “Slow Beer”
Darling Brew – “Just beer”
Darling Brew – “4X4 Braai PA”
Darling Brew – “Godfather”
Darling Brew – “Long Claw”
Darling Brew – Just Right”
Clockwork Brewhouse – “Schwarzbier”
Clockwork Brewhouse – “Hibiscus-Citrus-Plum Sour”
Sabie Brewing Co. – “Long Tom Lager-Munich Dunkel”
Sabie Brewing Co. – “Shangaan Stout”
Hoghouse Brewing Co. – “Hoglite Light Kolsch”
SAB – “Castle Double Malt”
SAB – “Castle Lager”
SAB – “Hansa Pilsner”
The Franschhoek Beer Co – “Weissbier no 5”
The Franschhoek Beer Co. – “Liberty APA”
Bomb Squad – “Bomb Squad”
That Brewing Co. “That Black”
That Brewing Co. – “El Juicy”
That Brewing Co. – “That APA”
St Francis Brewing Co. – “Beach Blonde Lager”
Kings Craft Brewing Co. – “Monksbrew Dunkel”
Noon Gun Brewery – “Smooth Bore Lager”
Cederberg Brewery – “Cederberg Pale Ale”
Jack Black Brewing Co. – “Skeleton Coast IPA”
Lake Umuzi Brewing Co. – “Village Weiss”
Devils Peak Beer Co. – “Devils Peak Hero Non-Alc”
Newlands Spring Brewing Co. – “Jacobs Pale Ale”
Newlands Spring Brewing Co. – “Tribute Lager”

Ridon highlighted that the acknowledged beers truly came from across the entire country – from Secunda to Paarl, from Pietermaritzburg to Johannesburg. “We are always happy to offer a platform to the remarkable brewers of South Africa. There are so many new beers. It shows diversity. And they are beers with identity.”

Ridon also mentioned the resilience of craft brewers. “We saw that during the lockdown we were all in the same boat,” he said, referencing the devastating economic impact of the Covid-19 alcohol bans from which most craft brewers are now bouncing back.

Patricia Pillay, the CEO of BASA, congratulated the winners. “We applaud all the winners for their skill, passion and their dedication to their craft. We encourage them to continue being part of the rich beer heritage and tradition that exists in South Africa – from the days of traditional brewing in the form of umqombothi to microbrewing. Along with big beer players, the beer industry supports 1 in every 66 jobs in one way or another. BASA recognises that with the current economy and various legislative limitations that impact beer as a category, it’s not always easy to trade, but we acknowledge the brewers’ ability to always be innovative. The world-class no alcohol and low alcohol beers that the brewers produce are amazing and it was a privilege for BASA to be able to sponsor the prizes for these categories for the second year. BASA takes its responsibility to promote moderate and considered drinking very seriously,” she said.

Closing the event, Pillay spoke about BASA’s petition to gauge public support for the legalisation of the sale of craft beer in grocery stores. The petition has already received over 22 000 signatures.

ANIMALS 101 – PET EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Columnist

Ancois van Zyl

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November 22, 2023

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ANIMALS 101 – PET EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

ENSURING THE SAFETY AND WELL-BEING OF OUR FURRY FAMILY IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY!

A pet emergency plan is crucial for safeguarding your pets in unforeseen events and ensuring their safety, well-being, and survival. It facilitates a quick and efficient response to emergencies, guiding you in gathering essentials, securing pets, and evacuating. Including proper identification in the plan, like collars with tags and microchips, increases the chances of reuniting with your pets if separated. Addressing health needs, evacuation preparedness, and compliance with regulations, the plan offers peace of mind and reduces stress during high-pressure situations. Communication and coordination strategies with family, neighbours, and responders are integral, as is the plan’s adaptability to various emergency scenarios.

A pet emergency plan is a vital tool for effective and swift responses to crises, prioritizing the safety and well-being of your beloved pets. Your pets are important members of your family, so they need to be included in your family’s emergency plan. To prepare for the unexpected follow these tips with your pets in mind:

1. Make a plan

2. Build an emergency kit

3. Stay informed

Emergency pet plan — Image from Pexels.com

WHAT SHOULD YOUR PET EMERGENCY PLAN INCLUDE?

Having a comprehensive emergency plan for both yourself and your pets is crucial to minimize difficulties and stress during unforeseen situations, including illness or accidents.

A pet emergency plan is a comprehensive strategy designed to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets in the event of various emergencies or disasters. It involves careful consideration and preparation for situations such as natural disasters, medical emergencies, evacuations, or any unexpected events that may pose a threat to your pets. A well-thought-out pet emergency plan typically includes the following components:

Evacuation Plan: If evacuation becomes necessary, it’s vital to plan for your pets as well to prevent them from getting lost, injured, or worse if left behind. Know in advance where you can take your pets if you need to evacuate your home. Identify pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or the homes of friends and family members willing to accommodate your pets. You have to develop an evacuation strategy in advance. Coordinate with neighbours, friends, or relatives to ensure someone can care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.

Identification: Ensure your pets have proper identification, including collars with up-to-date tags and registered microchips. Register the microchip on multiple databases. Include your contact information and any essential medical details as well as an emergency contact outside your immediate area.

Transportation: Have appropriate carriers or crates for each pet, ensuring they are comfortable and secure during transport. Practice getting your pets used to being in carriers beforehand.

Contact List: Maintain a list of emergency contacts, including your veterinarian, local animal shelters, and pet-friendly hotels or shelters. Share this information with family members, neighbors, and friends who may be involved in your pet’s care during an emergency.

Medical Information: Keep records of your pets’ medical history, vaccinations, and any special needs they may have. This information can be crucial in case your pets require veterinary care during an emergency.

Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with family members or neighbors to ensure everyone knows how to coordinate and share information about the well-being and whereabouts of your pets.

Training: Train your pets to respond to basic commands, making it easier to manage them in stressful situations. This can be particularly important during evacuations or when interacting with emergency responders.

Secure Your Home: Take steps to pet-proof your home and secure it against potential hazards. This includes having a plan for containing pets in a safe area if necessary.

Remember to review and update your pet emergency plan regularly, especially if there are changes in your living situation, family composition, or the health of your pets. Being well-prepared ensures that you can act quickly and effectively to protect your pets in any emergency.

For further guidance, reach out to local authorities, veterinarians, animal shelters, or animal control offices to ensure the best care for your pets during emergencies.

Emergency kit for pets — Image by humanesociety.org

BUILDING AN EMERGENCY KIT

Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, such as food and water. Have two kits, one larger kit if you are sheltering in place and one lightweight version for if you need to evacuate. Review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh.

Here are some items you may want to include in an emergency kit for your pet:

Food. Keep several days’ supply of food in an airtight, waterproof container.
Water. Store a water bowl and several days’ supply of water.
Medicine. Well labelled. Keep an extra supply of the medicine your pet takes regularly in a waterproof container.
Keep all their medical records in one place with this kit.
First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs.
Collar with ID tag and a harness or leash. Include a backup leash, collar, and ID tag. Have copies of your pet’s registration information and other relevant documents in a waterproof container and available electronically.
Traveling bag, crate, or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet. Have a plan on who grabs what in an emergency.
Grooming items. Pet shampoo, conditioner, and other items, in case your pet needs some cleaning up. Dry shampoos are great for this.
Sanitation needs. Include pet litter and a litter box (if appropriate), newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags, and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs.
A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. You can also add a detailed description of your pet.
Important numbers. Your veterinarian’s number. If your family does not live in your town, have numbers for someone who can immediately go to your home and check on them or take them. You can even provide them with a letter of authorization and or a key to your home.
Familiar items. Put their favourite toys, treats, or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet. You can also include items that smell like you.

STAYING INFORMED AND OTHER TIPS

Stay informed about potential hazards in your area, including weather-related risks or other events that might impact your pets. Keep abreast of local emergency plans and regulations regarding pets.

Emergency card. You can buy or make such cards to keep in your wallet or your car. Even stickers. If you are in an accident or unconscious then this person can be contacted. Never list your address, but that you have animals at home to be taken care of and the contact person.
In case of a fire at home. Have a small notice board near entrances about people and pets in this home. Not where thieves can see it from outside, but if firemen enter this could help. Read more on FIRE EMERGENCY here.
When you evacuate with your pets, place a rescue alert sticker on the front door and write “Evacuated” across the sticker so rescue workers know you’re all accounted for.
Provide exits for your pets like doggy doors. We prefer at least two.
Teach your pets to open certain doors.
Our pet sitter and one other person are listed with contact numbers on our vet accounts as having the authority to make decisions on our behalf. Inform your vet that this person can be contacted.
We opened a vet account at more than one veterinary practice in town, so if one is not available, you (or the pet sitter) do not need to do all the paperwork then.
Let your pet sitter have the family’s numbers and vice versa.
Leave an extra set of keys with a friend or neighbours.
NEVER LEAVE your pets alone when you are away for a holiday. Have someone check in at least once every 8-12 hours.
Save money in advance for pet emergencies.
Contact SDS services and training academy for your pet first aid course!

Also, read about water safety for your pets.

Will and testament — Image by The Paw Company

DO YOU HAVE A PLAN FOR YOUR PETS IF YOU SHOULD FALL ILL OR DIE?

Animal welfare organizations have seen first-hand the confusion as these animals arrive in shelters and have to try to cope in kennels. Often being split up or waiting long periods before being adopted or eventually just humanely killed because there are just not enough homes with this massive overpopulation crisis.

Including pets in your will is important to ensure their ongoing care and well-being after your passing. Pets are considered property in legal terms, and without specific provisions, there may be uncertainty about their fate.

Include your pets in your will and clearly state your wishes. Name one or two people you trust to make these decisions if necessary. Inform those that you name in your will to take care of your pets. Explicitly stating care instructions, including daily routines and veterinary preferences, guarantees their continued well-being. This also helps prevent disputes among family or friends and minimizes legal conflicts, providing a recognized framework for your pets’ future care. Planning for contingencies, such as naming alternate caregivers, accommodates life’s unpredictability.

Allocating financial resources in your will eases the burden on caregivers, covering veterinary, grooming, and daily expenses.

Consultation with legal professionals for proper documentation and communication with designated caregivers to ensure their willingness to take on the responsibility may be required. Talk to a company that specializes in estate planning for pets!

Doing this provides peace of mind and prevents potential surrender to shelters by providing a clear plan for your pets’ future homes. Including pets in your will expresses your love and responsibility as a pet owner.

Read more on options for your pets to include in your will and leave a legacy to a reputable animal welfare organization.

In conclusion, having an emergency plan for your pets and including them in your will is a responsible and compassionate approach to pet ownership. These measures provide a comprehensive strategy for ensuring the safety and well-being of your beloved animals in times of crisis and beyond and you will not burden an already overwhelmed animal welfare system. By taking these steps, you not only protect your pets from potential harm but also demonstrate your enduring commitment to their happiness, health, and security, even when you’re no longer able to be their primary caretaker.

Next week we will look at why animals should not be on your Christmas gift list.

WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, DO BETTER!

Family tragedy as Husband drives over wife and commits suicide.

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 21, 2023

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Family tragedy as Husband drives over wife and commits suicide.

Family and friends were left distraught and in shock after an alleged domestic violence incident turned into murder and suicide.

According to a Police Spokesperson, the neighbours said that the Husband, Renaldo Cenoz was fighting with his wife Anna Maria (Boshoff). SAPS attended to the domestic violence scene at 22H15.

It is said that Renaldo drove over his wife, Anna, with his Toyota Carolla. He sped off but returned a short while later. He took Anna to Mediclinic Highveld in Trichardt. UPDATE: From the comments it would appear that Anri was sitting behind the vehicle when Renaldo reversed. This could not be confirmed yet.

The hospital informed SAPS at 23H00 that the wife passed away.

The police then tried to contact Ronald, the husband, but could not find him nor could they make any contact with him.

A case of murder was opened.

While the police were still investigating Anri’s case, they received a phone call that Renaldo was found at the abandoned mine along the road between Evander and Secunda. He allegedly jumped from one of the structures.

Emergency personnel declared Ronald deceased on the scene.

The neighbours contacted a security company to the scene shortly after they heard Anri running out of the house.

By the time the security company arrived at the scene, Renaldo had allegedly already driven over Anri.

The couple’s three sons witnessed everything. They are currently staying with family members of the couple.

This is truly a tragedy that has left three lives totally shattered.

The words on Anri’s (the victim) Facebook page may haunt people for some time to come: “Só lief vir my 3 monsters en manlief”

Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing donates to Charity

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 20, 2023

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Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing donates to Charity

The Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing made huge donations to two charities.

Every year parents and dance lovers are treated to a spectacular dance show by the Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing.

What most people don’t know is what happens to the contributions and ticket sales. This is probably the most beautiful part, all the proceeds are donated to charity and this year it was no different. Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing donated a whopping R80182,00 (combined) to Marietjie School and Janelle Orphanage.

Jan Coetzer (Janelle huis) Estelle Coetzer (Janelle huis) Nicky Brooks ( Owner and Dance Teacher of NBSD) Mariane Ueckermann ( Skool hoof van Marietjie Skool) Natasha Niemand (assistant teacher of NBSD). Anna Strydom ( adjunkhoof Marietjie skool)

Marietjie school received R50182 and Janelle Orphanage R30000.

“It is a great privilege to share with you that we will be donating proceeds to an amount of R 80 182 to charity,” Said Miss Nicky as she is popularly known, “I want to once again thank each and every parent and student for your contribution towards the celebration of the dance show, you are amazing. I want to reiterate that every student used their talent to make a positive difference to the needy in our community.”

Nicolette Brooks (52) began dancing at the age of three and trained at various dancing schools.

In 1990 she founded the Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing, which has become very active in the local artistic community.

Ms Brooks’ professional achievements include an Associate, Advanced Associate and Membership Certificate in Modern, Tap and Hip-Hop with the A.I.D.T. (Association of International Dance Teachers). She further holds a membership certificate for Ballet with the Dance Academy of South Africa (D.A.S.A.) as well as the Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.).

In addition, she is an examiner of Modern, Tap and Hip-Hop. She was privileged to examine in London and Cyprus for the AIDT.

The Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing received numerous awards including: “The Most Outstanding Studio”, as well as “The Most Well-presented Studio” from D.A.S.A.

The Nicolette Brooks School of Dancing has previously staged eight very successful shows at the Johannes Stegmann Theatre in 1996, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2014, and 2017. In 2021 it was staged at Curro Secunda.

The proceeds of these shows were donated to various charities.

The aim of the 2023 show was to involve the local community and once again use the dancer’s talent and passion for dance to give back to the community.

Well done to a brilliant initiative and making such a contribution to the community.

MAJOR BUST OF ILLEGAL BUSINESS OPERATION

News

Encee van Huyssteen

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November 20, 2023

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JOINT OPERATION LED TO THE MAJOR BUST OF ILLEGAL BUSINESS OPERATION

19 November 2023- Teamwork between Middleburg SAPS and private security companies led to the major bust of illegal diesel trade on Friday 17 November 2023 at about 12:30.

Police and security personnel were conducting their routine operations when a tipoff was received about the illegal activities in the area.

The team made a follow-up on the tipoff where 7 725 litres of diesel believed to be illegally traded was confiscated and two suspects aged 21 and 33 arrested.

In separate incidents during the operation, two other suspects were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition and one for possession of a suspected stolen vehicle.

All arrested suspects are expected to appear before Middleburg Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, Monday 20 November 2023.

Other confiscations included Chrome value at R1 320,00 on street value. A VW Golf, two truck trailers, three generators and five batteries were also seized.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela welcomed the arrest and commended the partnership between law enforcement agencies and community participation.