The Recorder: 28 February 2023

Click on the heading above to view the full post.

In this edition / In hierdie uitgawe……

(Click on any of the blue link news headlines below to be taken to the news article of your choice / Kliek op enige van die blou skakel nuusopskrifte hieronder om na die nuusartikel van jou keuse geneem te word)

Hoogies Top 15.
Volkies gesels met NT Moolman.
Helpende Hand Damestee: 18 Maart 2023.
Cholera Disease Alert for South Africa – Amajuba Hospital.
Juicy pork Casserole Recipe.
SAVF Marriage Preparation & Marriage Enrichment Course via Zoom.
Wakkerstroom Music Festival 2023 / Wakkerstroom Musiekfees 2023.
Don’t let rising temperatures get the better of you.
Eerste plek vir beide De Jagers. (Volksrust Hoer Skool)
Tips for test driving a car.
Bringing teen suicide into the light.
Religious message for the Noahide Community in Volksrust.
Religious message for the Christian Community in Volksrust.
Psalms: 91
Religious message for the Muslim Community in Volksrust.
Wakkerstroom Vleifees
Want to work in China?
South African National Blood Service
Recorder Classifieds.
Sports Page.

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Hoogies Top 15

Ons top 15 atlete het Woensdag, 1 Februarie 2023 te Bethal deelgeneem aan Hoogies se Top 15 vriendskaplike byeenkoms. Die kompetisie was straf maar ons het voorwaar uitgeblink onder ongeveer 20 klein, medium en groot skole. Dit was ‘n baie nat dag en die baan was swaar, maar dit het nie ons Volkie durf gedemp nie.

Atlete presteer as volg:

Boys 14

Xian Meyer

1ste plek vir spiesgooi met ‘n besonderse afstand van 45.51 m

Boys 15

Van Zijl Heyneke
3de plek in die 200 m

Boys 16

Bandile Nkosi
3^rd place in the 110 m hurdles with a time of 15.91
4^th place in the 400 m

Boys 17

Matthew MacDonald
3de plek in spiesgooi
4de plek in gewigstoot

Siyabonga Mavuso
1ste plek in die 800 m met ‘n tyd van 2:14.85
3de plek in die 400 m met ‘n tyd van 56.37

Kheto Twala
2^nd place in the 110 m hurdles with a time of 15.25s
4^th place in the 400 m hurdles with a time of 1:02.83

Boys 19

CJ du Plessis
1ste plek in spiesgooi

Siyanda Masina
2^nd place in the 110 m hurdles with a time of 15.25s
4^th place in the 800 m

Girls 14

Abia Louw

1ste plek in die 300 m hekkies met ‘n tyd van 51.65 sek
2de plek in die 90 m hekkies met ‘n tyd van 14.47 sek

Girls 15

Danelle de Jager
3de plek in die 400 m

Girls 19

Charlene Hobson

3de plek in die 100 m hekkies
2de plek in verspring

Hayley Lavarack

1ste plek in driesprong

Luané Martins
2de plek in hoogspring

Zanelle Nel
4de plek in 400 m hekkies
4de plek in verspring

Abi van der Merwe
4de plek in die 100 m

CJ du Plessis & Matthew MacDonald

Baie dankie aan elke atleet, afrigter en ouer wat dit moontlik maak om Volkies se naam hoog te hou.

~me. Ané Hamman~

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Volkies gesels met NT Moolman

Volkies gesels met NT Moolman, top presteerder 2022 waar hy 7 onderskeidings en 93% gemiddeld behaal het.

Gee bietjie meer agtergrond oor wat jy na skool gedoen het, waar jy jou tans bevind en waarmee jy jouself besig hou.

Ek gaan hierdie jaar (2023) Upington toe, waar ek ‘n jaar lange kursus in Bewaringsekologie gaan doen by die Academy for Environmental Leadership (AEL). Daarna beoog ek om Botanika (Plantkunde) en Biochemie aan die Noordwes Universiteit te studeer.

Was daar ooit enige twyfel in jou hart dat Volkies die skool vir jou is?

Nee. Volksrust was reg van die begin af die enigste skool vir my!

Hoekom het jy Hoërskool Volksrust gekies as skool vir jou hoërskoolloopbaan?

Volksrust Hoërskool se uitstaande akademie, sport, kultuur en die pragtige skoolgronde het beslis die keuse vir ‘n Hoërskool maklik gemaak!

Dink jy die plattelandse omgewing van Volksrust was tot voordeel of tot nadeel vir jou hoërskoolloopbaan?

Ek sou sê die plattelandse omgewing van Volksrust Hoërskool was tot voordeel vir my hoërskoolloopbaan omdat ek so baie ondersteuning van die onderwysers en die gemeenskap kon kry.

Wat het vir jou uitgestaan by Volkies oor die 5 jaar wat jy daar spandeer het?

Die besonderse vermoë van die onderwysers om leerders dag-in en dag-uit te motiveer en te help om beter te presteer sodat elkeen hul volle potensiaal kan bereik, het die meeste vir my uitgestaan.

Akademie is sekerlik nie jou enigste talent nie. Het Volkies ander talente wat jy ontvang het ook bevorder of voel jy dat Volkies meer kon gedoen het?

Volkies het my baie gehelp om my leierskapvaardighede te ontwikkel omdat die skool vir my talle geleenthede gebied het om in ‘n leierskapsposisie op te tree. Volkies het ook my gehelp om my sport te ontwikkel.

Verduidelik wat dit vir jou beteken het om by jou ouers te bly as jy ŉ dagskolier was. Verduidelik hoe jy die koshuis ervaar het, as jy ŉ inwoner daar was.

Ek was van graad 8 tot in Matriek in die koshuis. Ek het die koshuis baie geniet omdat ek soveel goeie herinneringe kon maak saam met my vriende. Die koshuis was beslis ook goed vir my akademie omdat die streng studietye my elke dag forseer het om hard te werk.

Op watter gebiede sou jy sê behoort Volkies te verbeter en wat is jou voorstelle?

Ek kan nie aan een gebied dink waarop Volkies moet verbeter nie. Volkies presteer uitstaande op alle gebiede, en Volkies se akademie is van die beste!

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Helpende Hand Damestee: 18 Maart 2023

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Cholera Disease Alert for South Africa – Amajuba Hospital

There is one death of Cholera recently reported in South Africa (Gauteng) in the past few days as we write this article. This is a huge concern for Dr Pixley Ka-Seme subdistrict which happens to be a neighbouring town for 2 provinces such as KwaZulu Natal and Free state. It is therefore imperative for the citizens to get more knowledge of this deadly disease because sooner or later this disease will be in our door steps if not properly controlled..

What is Cholera?

Cholera is a diarrhoeal disease caused by bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. This bacterium has the ability to survive both in fresh, salt water and food. It is transmitted by feco-oral route (faeces to the mouth).

What are the signs and symptoms?

Onset of diarrhoea is typically sudden. Diarrhoea is profuse, painless and watery, with flecks of mucus in the stool (“rice water” stools), nausea and profuse vomiting may occur, usually early in the illness ·Majority of patients have fever, children are more often feverish. All complications result from effects of loss of fluids and electrolytes in stool and vomitus; dehydration occurs rapidly.

Incubation Period

The incubation period ranges from a few hours to five days, usually two to three days,

Steps to be taken to prevention and Control of Cholera

Be sure you drink and use safe water.

Water treatment, treat it with a chlorine product, boil it, treat with bleach, or filter it.

Treat with Chlorine Product where possible.

* Treat your water with one of the locally available chlorine treatment products and follow the label instructions.
Or boil it.

* If a chlorine treatment product is not available, boiling is an effective way to make water safe. Bring your water to a rolling boil for 1 minute. Note: Boiled water is at risk for re-contamination if not stored and used safely.
Or treat with bleach.

* If you cannot boil water, treat water with household bleach. Add 8 drops of household bleach for every 1 gallon of water (or 2 drops of household bleach for every 1 litre of water) and wait 30 minutes before drinking.
Or filter it.

* If filtering, use a device with a pore size less than or equal to 0.3 microns and treat the water with a disinfectant such as chlorine, chlorine dioxide, or iodine.

* Always store your treated water in a clean, covered container.
Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Before, during, and after preparing food.
- Before and after eating food or feeding your children.
- After using the toilet.
- After cleaning your child’s bottom.
- After taking care of someone who is sick with diarrhoea.
Use Toilets.

Use toilets or safely managed sanitation facilities to get rid of stools
This includes disposal of children’s stools.
Wash hands with soap and safe water after going to the bathroom.

If you don’t have access to a toilet:

Dig new latrines or temporary pit toilets at least a half-meter (1.6 feet) deep and at least 30 meters (100 feet) away from any body of water.

4. Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.

Cook food well, keep it covered, eat it hot, and peel fruits and vegetables.
Eat foods that have been thoroughly cooked and are still hot and steaming. Be sure to cook seafood, especially shellfish, until it is very hot all the way through.
Avoid raw vegetables and fruits that cannot be peeled.

5. Clean up safely.

Clean food preparation areas and kitchenware with soap and treated water and let dry completely before reuse.
Bathe and wash clothes or diapers 30 meters (100 feet) away from drinking water sources.
Clean and disinfect toilets and surfaces contaminated with poop: clean the surface with a soap solution to remove solids; then disinfect using a solution of 1-part household bleach to 9 parts water.
When finished cleaning, safely dispose of soapy water and dirty rags. Wash hands again with soap and safe water after cleaning and disinfecting.

Author: Sr SH Mkhonza – IPC Nurse & RM Mkhaliphi CEO – Amajuba Hospital

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Juicy pork Casserole Recipe

Author: Irene Muller: The South African.Com

INGREDIENTS:

1 kg pork stew meat, cut into small cubes and excess fat removed.
4 tbsp olive oil
4-6 carrots, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
2 large onions, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme
4 bay leaves
2 tbsp crushed garlic
410 g canned chopped tomatoes

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 150°C.
Heat half the olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot of your choice.
Dust the pork with the flour.
Add half the pork to the pot and brown on all sides, place in a dish and set aside. Repeat with the rest of the meat.
Add the remaining olive oil to the pan, along with the onion, carrots and green pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the onion has softened.
Return the meat to the pan with the garlic, tomatoes, bay and thyme leaves.
Pour in the 500ml stock into the Dutch oven. Bring to the boil. Cover with a lid then transfer to the oven and cook for 2 hours.
Before serving add the grated parmesan or cheddar and garnish.

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SAVF Marriage Preparation & Marriage Enrichment Course via Zoom.

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Wakkerstroom Music Festival 2023 / Wakkerstroom Musiekfees 2023.

12th Wakkerstroom Music Festival in full swing this year.

After the two non-festival years due to the Covid lockdown and 2022’s 50% capacity restrictions, the planning committee of the Wakkerstroom Music Festival is enthusiastic about the program on offer for the 12th Wakkerstroom Music Festival. The Wakkerstroom Music Festival, the only one of its kind in the North of South Africa, takes place this year as usual over the long weekend of 17-21 March with 28 individual classical music and 4 classical jazz concerts performed in the picturesque surroundings of Wakkerstroom.

Regular festivalgoers of the Wakkerstroom Music Festival can look forward to a strong program spanning a wide variety of classical music genres and an impressive variety of instrument combinations and individual concert programs. Furthermore, the Wakkerstroom Music Festival management decided to present two gala concerts again, as in 2022. In this way, festivalgoers who cannot make it to all the concerts are given an opportunity to get an overview of the total offer at the Wakkerstroom Music Festival.

To single out highlights of the festival program is not easy this year. Seasoned and highly skilled classical music artists performing at this year’s festival include: the soprano Linelle Wimbles who is accompanied by a brass ensemble led by Pharny Crysler-Fox; the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra’s JPO Quartet; Malané Hofmeyr-Burger (flute), Morné van Heerden (clarinet) and Sonja van Zyl (piano); Christiaan Snyman (baritone), Lizette Vosloo and Albie van Schalkwyk (piano) with songs from, among others, Brahms, Schubert and Williams; as well as the experienced singers Aukse Trinkunas (mezzo-soprano), Danie Verster (baritone) and Rouel Beukes (bass-baritone) ) with song cycles by Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Rachmaninoff and Grieg .

Also on the classical music program are Nocoré Ensemble, a twelve-part acapella ensemble from Nelspruit; the Boulevard Harmonistse from Potchefstroom; Laura Pauna and Christo Jankowitz with piano duets; organ duets by Isabelle van Rensburg and Andrea Kayser-Mitas; and Shannon Armer (French horn) and Eugene Joubert (piano) with a selected program for French horn and piano. For lovers of musicals there is “Webber and Rice and All Things Nice” with Vita Wilkens (soprano), Johan Schlebusch (baritone), Dewald Grobler (baritone), Ruan Kruyshaar (piano) and Catrien Wentink (piano).

Festival goers will be able to pick and choose from the jazz program. There are Broadway and swing favourites by the popular Ranehart Jazz Ensemble; gypsy and French street cafe jazz by Cherry Pill Ensemble; and also classic jazz trios with David Cousins (piano), Amaeshi Ikechi (double bass) and Peter Auret (drums). Auret is also involved in the Scullery Quintet’s “Everything but the Kitchen Sink” with unconventional euphonic arrangements of well-known classical melodies. The contralto Liana Simmonds together with Bianca Rudolph (violin), Lammie Marx (cello), Derik van Deventer (drums) and Rudolf Geldenhuis (piano) also offer an eclectic program with ragtime hits; and The Elysian with Natalie Bentley (cello), Niel Berg (piano and voice) and Joey Swart (voice) envision an exceptional program where old and new are mixed to create a unique sound experience.

The final program with the weekend’s concert schedule and online ticket sales will be available from 20 February 2023 at www.wmfestival.co.za . Due to the festival’s increasing popularity, visitors planning to attend the festival are encouraged to book accommodation as soon as possible. Details about accommodation and more details about the festival program can also be found on the website. Any inquiries can be directed to info@wmfestival.co.za

Issued for and on behalf of: Wakkerstroom Music Festival

By: Linette van der Merwe

Tel: 082 923 1540

Email: linette@wmfestival.co.za

For comments or inquiries please contact:

Tel: Linette van der Merwe

Email: linette@wmfestival.co.za

Website: www.wmfestival.co.za

12e Wakkerstroom Musiekfees vanjaar in volle swang.

Na die twee non-feesjare weens die Covid-grendelstaat en 2022 se 50% kapasiteitsbeperkinge is die beplanningskomitee van die Wakkerstroom Musiekfees entoesiasties oor die programaanbod van die 12e Wakkerstroom Musiekfees. Die Wakkerstroom Musiekfees, enig in sy soort in die Noorde van Suid-Afrika, vind vanjaar soos gewoonlik, plaas oor die langnaweek van 17-21 Maart met 28 individuele klassiekemusiek en 4 klassieke jazzkonserte wat deur die loop van die naweek in die skilderagtige omgewing van Wakkerstroom uitgevoer word.

Gereelde feesgangers van die Wakkerstroom Musiekfees kan uitsien na ŉ stewige program wat strek oor ŉ wye verskeidenheid van klassiekemusiekgenres en ‘n indrukwekkende verskeidenheid van instrumentkombinasies en individuele konsertprogramme. Voorts het die Wakkerstroom Musiekfees-bestuur besluit om, soos in 2022, weer twee galakonserte aan te bied. Op hierdie wyse word feesgangers wat nie noodwendig by al die konserte kan uitkom nie, ŉ geleentheid gegun om ŉ oorsig oor die totale aanbod by die Wakkerstroom Musiekfees te kry.

Om hoogtepunte van die feesprogram uit te sonder is vanjaar nie maklik nie. Deurwinterde en uiters bekwame klassiekemusiekkunstenaars wat by vanjaar se fees optree, sluit onder andere in: die sopraan Linelle Wimbles wat begelei word deur ŉ koperblaasensemble onder leiding van Pharny Crysler-Fox; die Johannesburg Filharmonie Orkes se JPO Kwartet; Malané Hofmeyr-Burger (fluit), Morné van Heerden (klarinet) en Sonja van Zyl (klavier); Christiaan Snyman (bariton), Lizette Vosloo en Albie van Schalkwyk (klavier) met lieder van onder meer Brahms, Schubert en Williams, asook die ervare sangers Aukse Trinkunas (mezzo-sopraan), Danie Verster (bariton) en Rouel Beukes (bas-bariton) met liedsiklusse van Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, Rachmaninoff en Grieg.

Ook op die klassiekemusiekprogram is Nocoré Ensemble, ŉ twaalfstemmige acapella ensemble van Nelspruit, die Boulevard Harmonistse van Potchefstroom, Laura Pauna en Christo Jankowitz met klavierduette, orrelduette deur Isabelle van Rensburg en Andrea Kayser-Mitas, en Shannon Armer (Franse horing) en Eugene Joubert (klavier) met ŉ uitgesoekte program vir Franse horing en klavier. Vir liefhebbers van musiekblyspele is daar “Webber and Rice and All Things Nice” met Vita Wilkens (sopraan), Johan Schlebusch (bariton), Dewald Grobler (bariton), Ruan Kruyshaar (klavier) en Catrien Wentink (klavier).

Feesgangers ook kies en keur uit die jazzprogramaanbod. Daar is onder andere Broadway- en swing-gunstelinge deur die populêre Ranehart Jazzensemble; sigeuner- en Franse straatkafeejazz deur Cherry Pill Ensemble, en ook klassieke jazztrio’s met David Cousins (klavier), Amaeshi Ikechi (kontrabas) en Peter Auret (tromme). Auret is ook betrokke by die Scullery Kwintet se “Everything but the kitchen sink” met onkonvensionele eufoniese verwerkings van bekende klassieke melodieë. Die kontralto Liana Simmonds saam met Bianca Rudolph (viool), Lammie Marx (tjello), Derik van Deventer (tromme) en Rudolf Geldenhuis (piano) bied eweneens ŉ eklektiese program met ragtime-treffers en The Elysian met Natalie Bentley (tjello), Niel Berg (klavier en stem) en Joey Swart (stem) beoog ŉ besonderse program waar oud en nuut vermeng word om ŉ unieke klankervaring te skep.

Die finale program met die naweek se konsertskedule en aanlynkaartjieverkope sal beskikbaar wees vanaf 20 Februarie 2023 by www.wmfestival.co.za. Weens die fees se toenemende gewildheid moet besoekers, wat beplan om die fees by te woon, spring om so spoedig moontlik verblyf te bespreek. Besonderhede oor verblyf en meer besonderhede oor die feesprogram kan ook op die webblad gekry word. Enige navrae kan gerig word aan info@wmfestival.co.za

Uitgereik vir en namens: Wakkerstroom Musiekfees

Deur: Linette van der Merwe

Tel: 082 923 1540

E-pos: linette@wmfestival.co.za

Vir kommentaar of navrae kontak asseblief:

Tel: Linette van der Merwe

E-pos: linette@wmfestival.co.za

Webblad: www.wmfestival.co.za

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Don’t let rising temperatures get the better of you.
Toubkin’s tips to beat the heat

Thursday, 23 February 2023 “Given the high temperatures still impacting parts of the country at this time of year, it is wise to exercise caution to ensure the heat doesn’t get the better of you,” says Mande Toubkin, general manager: emergency, trauma, transplant and corporate social investment at Netcare.

Don’t underestimate the power of the sun

Toubkin suggests that those caring for small children and the elderly should be particularly vigilant when temperatures soar. “If you have a medical condition such as epilepsy or hypertension you should take extra care. The same applies to people walking long distances – to and from school or work – and those working outdoors or exercising vigorously at the hottest time of the day.”

She warns that risk is often aggravated by not staying properly hydrated adding that people should try to drink at least two litres of water a day in hot conditions.

“Leaving babies, children, elderly persons or your pet unattended in vehicles, even for a short while, can be extremely dangerous, even fatal. The temperature inside a vehicle parked in the hot sun can quickly become like a furnace, which can be life threatening,” cautions Toubkin.

The temperature inside a vehicle can rise significantly, with the greatest temperature increase occurring within the first 15 to 30 minutes. Leaving the windows slightly open does not decrease the maximum temperature measured inside the vehicle by much. Tests done on a relatively cool day indicated that the temperature inside a vehicle reached 37.7°C within 25 minutes while the outside temperature was only 22.7°C.

From heatstroke exhaustion to heat stroke

According to Toubkin heatstroke can be fatal if not treated properly and promptly. “It occurs when the human body’s core temperature increases beyond 40 degrees, at which point it can cause patients to slip into a coma and suffer organ failure. The body generates heat but is usually able to dissipate this by radiation via the skin or through the evaporation of sweat on the skin. In extremely hot or humid environments and in cases where people overexert themselves, the body may not be able to get rid of the heat fast enough resulting in hyperthermia which, in simple terms, is an abnormally elevated body temperature.

Heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke if not recognised and reversed. However, heatstroke can also develop rapidly and without warning. Athletes, the very young, elderly individuals, those taking certain medication and outdoor workers may be particularly at risk of developing heatstroke. The condition can also be a threat when undertaking vigorous work in warm indoor environments without the appropriate protective clothing,” she points out.

When to get medical help

Toubkin says heatstroke should first be prevented wherever possible by ensuring precautions are taken in very hot environments, however should it occur, heatstroke should be treated as a medical emergency and emergency medical services should be contacted if you suspect that someone is suffering from the condition.

“It is vital to get the patient’s body temperature down to try and prevent organ damage. Move them out of the sun and into the shade and a cool area as soon as possible. You can remove their clothing and place them in a bathtub filled with cool or tepid water if they are conscious. Do not use very cold water, as it can prevent heat from escaping the body’s core. If a patient is placed in a bath, make sure they don’t lose consciousness. It is important that this is done while waiting for help,” she advises.

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, headache, vomiting, fatigue, muscle cramps, aches and dizziness. Heatstroke symptoms may differ from person to person and may include similar symptoms to that of heat exhaustion including high body temperature; dry flushed skin with an absence of sweating; rapid pulse; trouble breathing; bewilderment and confusion; unusual and sometimes aggressive behaviour; seizures and losing consciousness. Seek medical assistance as soon as possible should any of these symptoms be noted.

Beat the heat with Toubkin’s tips

Avoid strenuous physical activity in the heat or hot, humid conditions.
Avoid exposure to the sun in the middle of the day when the UV rays are at their most intense.
Drink water and sports drinks to remain hydrated but don’t over-hydrate. Rather drink small amounts at regular intervals.
Avoid alcohol, fizzy cool drinks, tea and coffee which may dehydrate you further.

Wear protective sunglasses and a wide brimmed sun hat.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to areas of the body not protected by clothing. Reapply frequently.
Make sure babies and children are well protected from the sun and kept cool.
Avoid exposure to the sun during pregnancy.
Avoid excessive exposure to the sun while swimming and during water activities.
Check that medication being taken will not affect your sensitivity to heat.
Do not leave anyone, especially babies, small children or the elderly in a locked car, not even for a few minutes.

“Plan your activities with care and pay the sun its due respect, and you should enjoy a summer free from health problems related to excessive heat,” concludes Toubkin.

Looking for a medical appointment? Netcare appointmed™ will make appointments for YOU with specialists practising at Netcare hospitals, GPs and dentists at Medicross medical and dental centres, and specialists at Akeso mental health facilities. Simply request an appointment online at www.netcare.co.za/Request-a-medical-appointment or phone Netcare appointmed™ on 0860 555 565, Mondays to Fridays between 08:00 and 17:00.

To find out more about the services offered through Netcare hospitals and other of the Group’s facilities, please visit www.netcare.co.za or contact the Netcare customer service centre either by email at customer.service@netcare.co.za or phone 0860 NETCARE (0860 638 2273). Note that the centre operates Mondays to Fridays from 08:00 to 16:00.

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Eerste plek vir beide De Jagers. (Volksrust Hoer Skool)

Click on the images below to enlarge and get clearer images. / Kliek op die prente hieronder om te vergroot en duideliker prente te kry.

Francois en Danél de Jager het aan die Mpumalanga provinsiale bergfiets XCO nommer 1 deelgeneem en beide verwerf die eerste plek in hierdie eerste wedren van die reeks. Sterkte vir die res van die reeks. Volkies sien angstig uit na hierdie fietsryers se verdere prestasies.

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Tips for test driving a car

You can learn a lot about a car by researching, talking to other motorists who drive the same car, and checking out the car’s service and accident history. Even with all this information at your fingertips, it’s essential to take the car for a test drive before making your final decision.

“You never really know if a car is the right fit for you without driving it first. This is especially important when it comes to purchasing a used car. Take someone with you who can experience the drive as a passenger, and who can be a good sounding board if you need it,” explains Barend Smit, Marketing Director of MotorHappy, a supplier of motor management solutions and car insurance options. The MotorHappy online marketplace is home to thousands of previously loved quality-assured vehicles that have all undergone a stringent inspection and have a proven service history.

Test driving is an important part of the driving process, so below are some important tips:

1. Check the car for damages or scratches. Even if it’s new or a demo car, there might still be flaws. You might be able to negotiate a better price. Alternatively, you can insist that the dealership or owner fixes anything before, or on condition of purchase.

2. Check out the comfort factor – do you feel comfortable, and could you sit on those seats for long drives? Test out the passenger seat and back seat to assess if you’d be comfy on a drive.

3. Assess the tech situation – does the car sync with Bluetooth? Does it have a CD shuttle or USB charging points?

4. Check the mileage and ensure it matches up to what the dealer has disclosed.

5. To get a full sense of the car’s driving capabilities, drive the car in different conditions, taking it through suburbs and the highway. Check to see if there are any blind spots when you turn, and how the vehicle fares when you’re overtaking.

6. Test the car’s brakes by braking fairly hard and suddenly (just warn your passengers when you’re about to do so, and make sure there are no cars behind you).

7. Drive over speed bumps and up a hill, stop at an incline and take off, try a twisty road to see how the car handles it.

8. If there’s a built-in entertainment system or navigation system, try these out to see that they’re user-friendly.

9. Check out the boot and back space, and if you have young kids, assess if the car will easily fit prams and infant or booster seats.

10. Switch off the music if it’s playing, so you can get an idea of how quiet (or noisily) the car drives.

“If it is a used car, ask to take the car to your mechanic for a thorough inspection, or if they can come and evaluate the car on the dealer’s premises. If the dealer or owner refuses to allow you to do this, see this as a red flag and perhaps consider purchasing another vehicle,” advises Smit.

ABOUT MOTORHAPPY

Welcome to zero hassle motoring. MotorHappy provides honest advice, smart rewards, and the best products in the Motorverse. From buying to selling your car and everything in-between. Insure it. Maintain it. Protect it.

A proud Motus Corporation company, established in 2015, MotorHappy provides a trusted, ‘go to’ platform that addresses the needs of motorists – offering great advice and enabling customers to compare options and purchase and manage motoring solutions on a single online portal. This self-service online platform not only provides customers with a convenient way to manage and optimise their motoring journey, but also ensures a cost-effective and user-friendly experience.

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Bringing teen suicide into the light
Dangers around keeping the subject silent

Tuesday 21 February, 2023 “The thought of one’s child taking his or her own life is so horrifying to any parent that many of us push it to the back of our minds rather than confronting the possibility. However, during the tricky teen years it is crucial to talk openly about suicide and shine the light on a potentially life saving conversation.”

Mark de la Rey, a clinical psychologist at Netcare Akeso Kenilworth says that in a world of extreme academic pressure, online bullying and other social challenges, teenagers will be far better equipped at navigating this difficult subject if they have the opportunity to talk it through at home.

“Parents may be apprehensive about how best to approach this topic. Naturally this needs to be done at an age appropriate level but it is important to remember that children have access to and are exposed to information and misinformation about difficult subjects like suicide – we cannot shelter them from that and treating it as taboo would be dangerous,” he says.

“What you can do as a parent is to help unpack why some people take their own lives and how such a tragedy is not the only option. A good ice breaker might be to suggest watching a TED talk about suicide together and then allowing everyone to discuss their views about it afterwards. You may get an eye roll or two but that is a small price to pay for keeping the lines of communication open.”

Are there signs?

De la Rey points out that suicidal ideation sprouts from some level of depression or a mood disorder, and that suicide – whether attempted or successful – indicates a genuine sense of hopelessness.

“Unfortunately, there are not always clear signs, especially in teens who are high functioning and good at sports, performing well academically, popular in their friend group and so on. This makes it easier for them to mask their true mental state, which they may do to live up to that which they believe is expected of them,” he says.

Stressful situations

De la Rey notes that there are certain instances in which teenagers can become so caught up that they are not able to take a step back and regain perspective without some help. “This includes common scenarios, some of which are near impossible to avoid, such as exam pressures and relationship issues. Others may be less apparent such as online bullying or blackmail over compromising photographs they may have shared. The digital environment can be extremely threatening to your child’s mental health and this is an area that needs a lot of discussion.

Significant changes

“Any significant change in behaviour can be a warning sign. Life as a parent is understandably very busy and it can be easy to miss a signal, so it is important to have a sense of what is happening in your teen’s daily life. If you have a child who is usually very active and social but becomes withdrawn, or a child who has always been a home body but now seems to be looking for reasons to stay away, keep a watchful eye. Sudden outbursts of anger and frustration and changes in daily habits can also point to emotional difficulty.

Speaking with finality

“Sometimes people having suicidal thoughts will do and say things that can indicate plans to end their life. This may come out in careless language, for example, saying ‘You won’t have to deal with me much longer’ or perhaps ‘Maybe we’ll meet again one day’ to a close friend. Such statements are sometimes made on social media, which is a cry for help that must be taken seriously.

Let them know you are there

“When our children are born we are 100% responsible for them and it remains like that for many years. In the case of teens, it is now a transitionary phase where it is natural for them to become more independent and parents need to shift into a more supportive role as teens start learning how to be accountable for their own actions. It is not easy to know when to let go, and if you see problematic behaviour it’s even harder. No matter what phase you are in with your teen, let your presence in their life be known. If they push you away, don’t be put off. They need to know that you are around and that you are there for them.”

According to De la Rey, parents often have a sense that something is off even if it is not clear what the issue is and in these moments it is important to sit down together and have a chat.

Watch your reactions

“Your child needs to know they can come to you with a problem, no matter how terrible it may appear to them at the time. This means being measured in your responses, which is not always easy when dealing with the emotionally charged and sometimes chaotic world of teenagers.

“However, if you tell your child that they can always come to you with a problem and then immediately react with anger or disappointment when they do approach you with something difficult, this can push them away and create distrust. That is not to say that there should be no consequences to their actions, but they need to feel they can be honest and confide in you.

“Ultimately you want your child to feel that they can talk to you when they are facing a seemingly insurmountable problem and for them to know that help is always available. Open conversation is your opportunity to reinforce that message.

“If you know or suspect that your child is having suicidal thoughts, seek professional help. There is always another option and while they might not be able to see it now, there is a way through,” concludes De la Ray.

Ends

About Netcare Akeso

Netcare Akeso operates a network of private inpatient mental health facilities and is part of the Netcare Group. Netcare Akeso provides individual, integrated and family oriented treatment in specialised inpatient treatment facilities, as well as certain outpatient services, for a range of psychiatric, psychological and substance use conditions. Please visit www.akeso.co.za or contact info@akeso.co.za for further information.

In the event of a psychological crisis, call 0861 435 787, 24 hours a day for emergency support. Psychiatrist consultations can be made through Netcare appointmed™, online at www.netcareappointmed.co.za or by calling 0861 555 565.

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Religious message for the Noahide Community in Volksrust

Parshah Terumah – A Sanctuary?
February 19-25, 2023 Exodus 25:1-27:19

A Portion of the Torah Portion for this Week:

The name of the Parshah, “Terumah,” means “Offering” and it is found in Exodus 25:2. The people of Israel are called upon to contribute thirteen materials—gold, silver and copper; blue-, purple- and red-dyed wool; flax, goat hair, animal skins, wood, olive oil, spices and gems—out of which, G‑d says to Moses, “They shall make for Me a Sanctuary, and I shall dwell amidst them.”

For Noahides

וְעָ֥שׂוּ לִ֖י מִקְדָּ֑שׁ וְשָׁכַנְתִּ֖י בְּתוֹכָֽם׃
They shall make Me a sanctuary from these materials; when they do so they must specifically intend thereby to infuse holiness into these materials. The purpose of the sanctuary is so that I may dwell in their midst.

On Mount Sinai, HaShem gave the Torah, the 613 Mitzvot for the Jews and the 7 Mitzvot for Noahides. This stemmed from His Chesed, a gift to the world to enable a relationship with Him and to create a healthy and habitable society. So let’s say “thank You”, do the mitzvot, and live a good life. Why must a Tabernacle be built and specific materials be provided?

Why a Sanctuary?

Giving the Torah does not automatically mean that the world had become a perfect place for HaShem to dwell in. Yes, the whole world was impressed, no bird made a sound, no cow bellowed, no lion roared…but the world had not been automatically turned into a perfect world by the giving of Torah. The building of the sanctuary shows that people must become actively involved in order to achieve that perfect world. They have to roll up their sleeves and they have to use specific materials.

Why Specific Materials?

Each person gives what his heart tells him. This shows that it is voluntary, no one is forced to work for a better world. But also that everyone can and may give that which he is capable of. The Tanach names concrete physical materials, which shows that everything in the world can be used for a sacred task, making mundane objects sacred objects. What is true of objects is also true of capacities. Every person has his own capacities by using his capacities for a sacred purpose. As a result, thoughts become sacred thoughts, actions become sacred actions. Whereby it does not matter what a person does. One person is good with people, another is good with his head and can perform difficult thought processes, yet another is good with his hands and perform many practical tasks. When everyone contributes their “material” a sanctuary is created in which HaShem can dwell, and the world becomes a dwelling place for Him. Everyone can do their part, give something, give chesed. For the world is founded on chesed.

Why does HaShem need a Dwelling Place?

But why does HaShem need a dwelling place, He is everywhere. It is not so much that HaShem needs a place, but that we need a physical dwelling place for Him. He is everywhere, but we are not yet able to see Him everywhere, because in our world His presence has not yet been fully revealed. Anyone who has been allowed to stand at the Western Wall to pray knows from experience that HaShem is more easily felt there than in any other place. How wonderful it must have been to stand at the Temple, to be able to worship Him there, and blessed we will be when we will soon be able to go up again to Tsion, to the Third Temple.

In You!

so that I may dwell in their midst.

In their midst, in their hearts. In your heart is where He wants to dwell. When we serve Him with our hearts (with both tendencies), with all our actions and all our words, when we try to use everything to serve Him we make our hearts a Sanctuary.

For that we can use all materials. A kind word to the neighbor will make the world a better place. Doing your job because you know that is a place where you will meet people you can bring into contact with HaShem will make the world a better place. Doing the dishes because your wife is happy there.

It will be a place where He can reveal Himself more and more, it will be a place where you can meet Him and where you learn to strengthen your bond, your faith and your trust in Him.

When your heart is a dwelling place for HaShem, the world will become a dwelling place for Him and we will soon have the Third Temple in our midst. And the World will be full of His Knowledge, like the waters covers the seas.

Link to the Dutch version: https://dutchnoahidecommunity.nl/2023/02/19/parasha-terumah-een-heiligdom/

Used with written permission.

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Religious message for the Christian Community in Volksrust

Today when we look at the situation in our country and the world around us, we can become very negative. Corruption, violence, unrighteousness and lawlessness abounds and we are powerless to do anything about it. We grasp at plans to ensure our survival and even have a look at the Bible for something or someone to get us out of this mess. The Israelites had the same problem (many times). In this piece of history the Israelites wanted to go to Egypt for help and God told them that it is not the correct solution, Isaiah 30. From verse 15 this is how it goes:

This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.
30:16 You said, ‘No, we will flee on horses.’ Therefore you will flee! You said, ‘We will ride off on swift horses.’ Therefore your pursuers will be swift!
30:17 A thousand will flee at the threat of one; at the threat of five you will all flee away, till you are left like a flagstaff on a mountaintop, like a banner on a hill.”
30:18 Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!

Three points that gave me direction is;

He wants to be gracious to us.
We want to jump on our strong horses to save the day.
His solution to us is to WAIT upon Him (this wait also translates “to become entwined with Him”).
Maybe the solution is; more of Him, less of me and my own plans.

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Psalms: 91

HOOFSTUK 91

Hy wat in die skuilplek van die Allerhoogste sit, sal vernag in die skaduwee van die Almagtige.
2 Ek sal tot die HERE sê: My toevlug en my bergvesting, my God op wie ek vertrou.
3 Want Hy is dit wat jou sal red uit die net van die voëlvanger, van die verderflike pes.
4 Hy sal jou dek met sy vlerke, en onder sy vleuels sal jy skuil; sy trou is ‘n skild en pantser.
5 Jy hoef nie te vrees vir die skrik van die nag, vir die pyl wat bedags vlieg nie,
6 vir die pes wat in die donker wandel, vir die siekte wat op die middag verwoes nie!
7 Al val daar duisend aan jou sy en tien duisend aan jou regterhand—na jou sal dit nie aankom nie.
8 Net met jou oë sal jy dit aanskou en die vergelding van die goddelose sien.
9 Want U, HERE, is my toevlug. Die Allerhoogste het jy jou beskutting gemaak.
10 Geen onheil sal jou tref en geen plaag naby jou tent kom nie;
11 want Hy sal sy engele aangaande jou bevel gee om jou te bewaar op al jou weë.
12 Hulle sal jou op die hande dra, sodat jy jou voet teen geen klip stamp nie.
13 Op die leeu en die adder sal jy trap, die jong leeu en die slang vertrap.
14 Omdat hy My liefhet, sê God, daarom sal Ek hom red; Ek sal hom beskerm, omdat hy my Naam ken.
15 Hy sal My aanroep, en Ek sal hom verhoor; in die nood sal Ek by hom wees; Ek sal hom uitred en eer aan hom gee.
16 Met lengte van dae sal Ek hom versadig, en Ek sal hom my heil laat sien.

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Religious message for the Muslim Community in Volksrust

Keep Moving. Don’t Look Back! – Mufti Menk
Friday Lecture from Bosmont Masjid, Johannesburg, South Africa, 9 October 2020

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Wakkerstroom Vleifees

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Want to work in China?

Ever considered working in China as a teacher? Would you like to earn more than the average South African salary with benefits depending on the school you work for? With the way our Rand is depreciating every.single.day, what better opportunity can there be than this? All that is required is a minimum of a BA degree preferably in the Education sector in order to secure a legal working Z visa. If you are looking to gain valuable working experience, are open minded, willing to learn and open to experience another culture with good food (and make good friends as well), contact Marina who is a licensed recruiter/agent by the Chinese Government and she can answer all of your queries. She is Chinese but she herself studied in South Africa and got her MA degree and is fluent in English. Now that China has dropped all of their Covid restrictions, the demand is high once again over there and teachers are wanted especially South Africans as they are known to be hard workers and have proved themselves not just in China but all over the world. You do not need to pay for her services but she can give you some options of the schools that are hiring. You only need to decide for yourself if you would like to work in a kindergarten, primary, high school (government) or if you would like to work as a lecturer in a university there and decide where you would like to work as there are jobs available all over the country. She can be contacted at: 114296830@qq.com. There is absolutely no commitment or fees on your part even just to make queries.

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South African National Blood Service

On Friday, the 24th of February 2023 the Ermelo branch held a “MILESTONE DONOR” Function at Mahawane to recognize Volksrust Blood Donors for their continuous effort to save lives. Every pint of blood can safe up to three people lives.

Thuli Mkhwanazi welcomed all present and Maureen Bothma, Collections Manager Ermelo gave a short presentation of the statistics of the Ermelo branch. Lodewyk Meyer, the Chairman of the Donor Committee also welcomed all our donors and thank our donors for their contributions.

The following Volksrust Donors listed below received medals and a pen to thank them for their contribution. We also enjoyed a tasteful supper at Mahawane Flamingo Restaurant.

20 Units

Laurissa Hammond

50 Units

Gideon Van Zyl; Thembisile Sibeko; Ettiene Fallet; Adolphas Sibeko; Maria Khathide;

Christina Delport; Jan C Venter; Maria M Vogel; Adriaan Rossouw; Mathys W, Pretorius; Sanet Egel; Johannes M Nhlapo; Andre Van der Merwe; Fikile Mabuza; Mphikeleli Manana; Anton Heyneke; Eleanor Botha; Ronald Dhlamini.

75 Units

Pieter J Pretorius; Andries Smith; Philippus J Strydom; Willem J, Herbst; Carlos Pereira;

Lionel L Crawford; Johannes S Calitz; Annelise Du Preez; Jacobus M Holtzhausen.

100 Units

Gary S Lavarack; Alwyn J Van Der Walt; Cecil Joubert; Daleen Van der Berg; Michael W Petty.

125 Units

Isabella C Marx; Johannes G van Der Walt;

150 Units

Carin L Beukes; Wessel C Oosthuizen.

175 Units

Frederick C Korff; David Rutherford; Petrus JA Beukes; Lou, Duvenage.

200 Units