In honour of World Rabies Day, Dr Danny Steckler is offering her time to visit schools in Howick and Nottigham Road to teach kids about the importance of Pet Cre and Pet Safety.
Book your spot for your Schools Pet Care and Rabies Talk by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
News supplied by Howick Small Animal Veterinary Clinic.
A Small team making a Big difference!
Singakwenza has moved! The team has a new home at the Build It Centre in Hilton and they are looking forward to welcoming you there. Thanks to the amazing support Singakwenza receives, more than 50 Early Childhood Development practitioners are currently being trained and over 1 100 delegates having attended Waste 2 Toys Training Workshops so far this year.
News supplied by Singakwenza.
The practice of meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation, has recently surged in popularity. This is largely because the health benefits of mindfulness meditation are very impressive and supported by scientific studies.
Most meditation practices emerged from a religious context. Mindfulness is just one specific meditation approach, and is often defined as either a ‘state of mind’ that is both focused and flexible and/or as "paying attention in a particular way, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally."
Mindfulness is very well-studied in health research. The scientific literature shows that it is helpful in an enormous range of health conditions. Stress reduction appears to be the common link.
Stress is associated with a reduced ability to use the prefrontal cortex of one’s brain. This is the part of one’s brain that is responsible for most of one’s higher order thinking abilities such as problem-solving and decision-making. Mindfulness allows for the effective use of one’s prefrontal cortex, under stress.
Those who regularly practice mindfulness tend to have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which helps to limit the many negative impacts of stress including the physical, emotional and cognitive difficulties most of us experience when “stressed”. This is important as many health conditions are worsened by stress and the ongoing presence of cortisol in one’s bloodstream.
In general, mindfulness has a direct and positive effect on mental health, especially anxiety and depression. Anxiety causes chronic, excessive, and often uncontrollable worry and, sadly, up to 60% of patients do not improve with conventional treatment, such as medications and psychotherapy. Studies show mindfulness can help. In this regard, numerous studies have found significant benefits, particularly when mindfulness is used alongside anxiety medication.
Research has been equally positive when it comes to clinical depression. This is a complex disorder characterized by low mood and/or avoidance of usual activities. Conventional care includes medication and psychotherapy. Unfortunately, many individuals relapse at some stage. Mindfulness has been shown to help prevent relapse for those who do not wish to use maintenance antidepressants. (Note that this does not mean that those with depression should discontinue medications.)
When it comes to obesity, weight loss and metabolic syndrome, mindful eating helps to increase one’s awareness of hunger and satiety cues. And it makes sense that mindful eating is beneficial for weight loss given our modern, fast-paced, fast food lifestyles where many of us gobble down our meals without much awareness of the amount we are eating let alone of the wonderful flavours of the food.
In general, research suggests that the potential health benefits of mindfulness meditation are very impressive. It's a harmless practice that can only be good for us, and there are many inexpensive or free resources, courses and meditation apps available online. Alternatively, if you are looking to explore the benefits of mindfulness alongside other interested individuals you might like to try an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction course. If you are intrigued, join me at one of my upcoming free talks on mindfulness and stress.
News supplied by Alistair Mork-Chadwick.
'This guy saved the day! Four bridesmaids who were in distress as their dresses were 3 sizes too big were calmed by an angel at reception who as it turns out is actually a fashion designer by trade! At 20.30pm on a cold Midlands night, Sbonelo Madlala made his way down with his sewing machine to alter the bridesmaid's dresses on the eve before the wedding, with a smile, and even entertained us with his music.
Sbonelo studied and worked as an intern at a retail clothing chain store and gave up his career to return home and look after his ill mother. He is currently a receptionist in the Midlands, but has a true passion for fashion design and seamstress work. He is extremely talented, a kind soul and a true angel! Thank you for saving the day Sbonelo, may God bless your road ahead!', said Madele Nelson.
What a wonderful country we live in, South Africans caring for one another above and beyond!
Pictured above: Sbonela and the bridesmaids.
Pictured below: Sbonela at his sewing machine.
News supplied by Lythwood Lodge.
Are you ready for the Power Park Night Market Howick?
We have vendors!
We have coffee!
We have drinks!
We have Gluwein!
We have hay bales!
We have live music!
We have food!
We have fires!
All we need is you!!
Next Friday see you at 1 Power Park Howick!
R10 will get you in and and a glass of Gluwein in your hand!
News supplied by Crossfit Howick.
The objective of the Slow Food Community of Mpophopmeni Food Conservation is to support small scale organic farming in the greater Mpophomeni area, to improve food security, to prevent the loss of traditional food culture and to inspire residents to live healthier lives.
In order to do this SFCMFC commits to:
• Promote organic, regenerative cultivation
• Work together in the African tradition of ilima
• Organise one seed sharing event each year
• Celebrate Terra Madre Day in our community
• Develop unique products using indigenous or invasive plants
• Support small producers to access local markets
• Promote traditional foods, by teaching others how to prepare these foods.
• Promote the use of wild greens as a nutrient-dense, free food source and assist others to identify these plants.
Penz Malinga comments "Freely available, flavourful food should be for everyone without causing harm to bird, bees or trees. Slow Food allows us to participate in ensuring that food diversity and all cultures and regions are sustained for generations to come."
News supplied.
St. Joseph's Preschool was recently the venue for a series of workshops on Basic Counselling Skills led by Judy Zingel of Amber Valley. Judy is a professional psychologist who responded to the community’s need for the training of volunteers to become good listeners.
Four two-hour sessions focused on theory and practical interactions among the 14 participants who ranged in age from 30 -80 years old. The success of the gatherings will be seen in the growth of healing in Howick households, neighbourhoods and beyond.
Reactions of some of the participants who ranged in age from 30 – 80 years old: ‘This course was very informative and empowering to help others in ways we would never have thought of.’
‘The course was eye-opening, simple ways to help people to open up about themselves.’ ‘…Just to be reminded that we need to be kind. Life happens at such a pace. We need to give our time to others.’
News supplied.
On Sunday 22 September, the Fern Hill Team began the Heritage Day celebrations early!
They had a splendid day showcasing a vast array of cultural foods on 5 different buffets. The live music by talented Charles Webster was enjoyed by all and they were lucky enough to have the Notties Pig Rig serving up on tap G&Ts as well as a variety of draughts. The kids greatly enjoyed the jumping castle and playground while the adults got to indulge and unwind!
Thankfully the weather was beautifully hot and the rain held off until the evening. A great day all round.
News supplied by Fern Hill Hotel.
Little Mozambique is a restaurant that blends Portuguese, Mozambican and Indian flavours creating a little piece of paradise in the heart of Howick
Little Mozambique are all about authentic Mozambican Cuisine. They pride themselves in serving their community with excellence, building trust through valuing family and creating an atmosphere of love. Their food will not only transport you to a piece of paradise but will also help you connect with loved ones in a special way.
News supplied by Little Mozambique.
Get these specials at Harvard Electrical Wholesalers. Valid for October.
Find Harvard Electrical Wholesalers at 22 Harvard Street, Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, 3290.
Break the mould with a BrewWithAView year end function. Our beergarden is the perfect venue for your staff and clients to relax after a long, productive year. Get to know each other over a craftbeer in the tranquillity of our beergarden. Treat your guests to the best in the kzncraftbeer scene.
Alternatively, you could hire us for your year-end event. We’ll bring the kegs and our mobile bar to serve your guests. Call 033 2344432 (answering service) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
News supplied by Lions River Craft Brewery.
A little group of friends that arrived at FreeMe with an owlet. Diego and his two friends, Kirsten and Kyle being greeted by Wade Whitehead (FreeMe Wildlife CEO).
Tammy Caine (FreeMe Wildlife's Raptor Specialist) came through to chat to the group. She explained that Spotted Eagle Owl chicks are often found on the ground, and that it is perfectly fine to leave them there, unless they are in immediate danger. The species will often nest on the ground, and even if they nest higher up, the chicks will leave the nest before they can fly properly and spend a week or two exploring their surroundings before they are able to fly off with the parents
Tammy thanked the kids for knowing the right food to feed the owls. She also told them that although rats and mice are often primary food for owls, Spotted Eagle Owls will also eat insects, birds, bats, and even snakes and frogs!
Growing owlets like this one need more than one rat a night to sustain them, so although the food was the right kind, it was not enough. So the decision was made to admit the owlet, feed it up, and arrange to release it again where it was found once its condition has improved.
Diego and his friends were given lots of interesting information on owls that will help them to A big thank you goes to Dr John Carlyon for the donation of his wonderful book 'Nocturnal Birds.' Incidents like these are exactly the reason Dr Carlyon donated the books, as it is his contribution towards spreading awareness on owls to promote their protection and conservation.remember everything they were told, and to learn new things.
With the owlet off with Tammy to be settled in a recovery box, Diego and his friends are delighted by everything they have learnt about owls, and are excited about becoming owl advocated in their community.
News supplied by FreeMe Rehabilitation Centre.
Elderly with disabilities or handicaps face several day-to-day challenges that others often don't understand.
Despite these challenges, they strive to live as independently as possible and want the same opportunities and choices in their lives as those without disabilities.
Get the home based assistance your loved ones need at www.nightingaleshomecare.co.za
News supplied by Nightingales Home Based Care.
With the addition of 4 new Gourmet Burgers to our menu, we have released a revised Saturday Burger Special so as to allow our guests to choose ANY of our burger options (and we have plenty!). What's more, we now offer either a Bernini or a bottle of Durban Poison with every special ordered.
Available every Saturday lunch and dinner! 033 330 5071.
News supplied by Fern Hill Hotel.
Spring has sprung, and so have the baby birds.
This means you may be finding a lot more feathered friends around, but when is it necessary to intervene with Mother Nature?
Here is some terminology to help you decide…
Nestling is the stage when a bird that is too young to leave its nest. Usually these babies are naked with little feathers or fluff.
Fledging is the stage in a bird’s life between hatching and becoming capable of flight. This stage is when baby birds jump willingly out of the nest to teach themselves how to fly.
Juvenile is a baby bird who has learnt how to fly (almost proficiently) but does not have the full adult plumage yet.
Avian mothers have a very specific way of teaching and caring for their young, and while it may seem cruel to us being “kicked out the nest” is natural for the youngsters to learn to fend for themselves.
If you are planning on clearing out your garden areas- like clipping bushes and tree-felling- then please remember to check the bush/tree for any nests before removing it from your yard. Baby birds fledge (leave the nest) in a matter of weeks and then it would be safe to continue with your yard renovations.
If you are unsure whether to intervene with a wildlife baby, please phone FreeMe Wildlife before picking them up and we can help you to make the correct decision on 033 330 3036.
News supplied by FreeMe.
KSS Operations staff are on the ball. More suspects were apprehend this week and handed over to SAPS. Alert KSS Officers also noticed and assisted in extinguishing fires on client’s premises.
Fire safety
Almost 99% of all fires are caused by human negligence. They are mostly caused by electrical faults or carelessness. Cigarettes, matches and lighters, candles, heating appliances and open braai fires can all cause fires if not carefully monitored. But it is not only human error that causes fires. Environmental factors such as changing weather patterns and urban spread increase the risk of fires, with the effects and level of damage often being felt more severely.
To prevent the loss of lives and property, everyone needs to be aware of the dangers of fire, especially during fire season this winter. Here are some tips to stay fire safe:
• Always extinguish fires and safely dispose of hot ash, coal and cigarettes.
• Ensure that your electrical appliances are correctly wired.
• Don’t overload power points and switch off appliances when not in use.
• Make sure gas appliances are correctly installed.
• Keep the area around your home and business clear of flammable materials (dry bush, scrub etc…)
• Never leave an open fire unattended (braai, in the fireplace at home, garden refuse etc…)
• Always make sure that you are alert in the kitchen when cooking and don’t leave the stove unattended.
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan.
• Clean the lint filter of your tumble dryer each and every time you use it.
• Take extra care when using heaters and electric blankets. Do not leave them on unattended.
• Always work in an open, cleared area when working with power tools.
• Make sure your business fire safety plan is clear and that you have your fire extinguishers serviced regularly.
• Buy a small fire extinguisher from a reputable dealer to keep in your home – note the correct way to use it and ensure that it has not expired.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers in the event of a fire and medical emergency OR call the KSS 24/7 Control Room on 033 3305911.
Remember …. You are Safer with Us!
KSS 24/7 Control Room
The KSS Control Room is manned 24/7 with highly competent staff that are trained to deal with emergency situations. Remember, you can call KSS not only for crime related issues, but also fire, medical, snakes, SAPS assistance etc… We are here to help. All calls made into or out of the KSS Control Room are recorded. Save 033 330 5911 on your speed dial or as a “favourite” on your cell phone.
News supplied by Knight Security Solutions.
Elizabeth Kimberley Gallias from Hillcrest enjoyed a Howick sunset yesterday and shared it to the growing Facebook groups know as #ImStaying, she said, "'Yesterday we watched the sun go down from the top of a mountain in Howick, mid Karkloof 100 miler. We saw wild cats and beautiful birds and soaked in all the amazing area had to offer. I love taking in this beautiful country on foot. No place like home ❤️ #imstaying".
We love Howick!
It’s going to be a memorable month with #kzncraftbeer master brewers uniting. Ronald McClelland and Megan Gemmell have teamed up to make an Indian Pale Ale like no other. Both these experienced brewers are members of the #kzncraftbeer initiative. Come and enjoy acraftbeer at our scenic beergarden for a BrewWithAView.
Make your event the talk of the town by hiring us, we’ll bring the kegs and our mobile bar to serve your guests.
News supplied by Lions River Craft Brewery.