Singer and songwriter Laurie Levine will perform at Caversham Mill on the 17th August 2013, seating is limited so book early. This marks the beginning of a country wide amble by Laurie, who has just returned from a successful tour of the UK. The concert begins at 14h30 giving you time enjoy lunch at Caversham Mill Restaurant from 11h30. Ticket cost R85.00 and can be booked by calling 033 234 4524 or 072 125 3392 or email your booking to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

More about Laurie

Since surfacing with her remarkable debut, Unspoken, back in 2007, Laurie Levine has meticulously crafted a career that has turned her into a singer-songwriter of real substance. Over a trio of records and countless live performances, the South African-based artist has taken her original material to a growing fanbase, earning multiple accolades along the way.

Among these was a best producer award (for producer Dan Roberts) for the critically acclaimed album, Six Winters (2011) at the annual South African Music Awards (SAMAs) in 2012. Levine's second album, Living Room (2009), was also nominated for a SAMA in 2010 and her performances at South Africa's National Arts Festival in the town of Grahamstown in July 2011 earned Levine a highly coveted Standard Bank Silver Ovation award.

Now set to release her fourth full length album, due in August 2013, Levine will once again take her blend of folk, roots and country on the road. Her national tour of South Africa will kick off at the Oppikoppi Festival in early August. She will also be returning to the UK in October as a follow up to her successful 2012 UK tour, during which she received rave reviews.

Her national tour of South Africa will kick off at the Oppikoppi Festival in early August. She will also be returning to the UK in October as a follow up to her successful 2012 UK tour, during which she received rave reviews.

It's no secret why Levine has managed to sustain a career in a home market that's dominated by Gospel, urban and pop - and is now poised for a strong international push.

As her fans know well, Levine's gift lies in her ability to draw on the deep roots of folk music, and mix it in with a myriad of other influences, including from America's Appalachia region and her native South Africa. With the acoustic guitar as her main instrument, her recordings see Levine – and a host of superb musicians – deploy an array of instruments (pedal steel, dobro, banjo, mandolin, harmonica, strings) that add the kind of atmosphere and layers that propel her songs out of simple singer-songwriter territory.

Remarkably, however, Levine manages to locate her contemporary folk stylings with a singularity that only the very best in the genre achieve with ease (the likes of Lucinda Williams, Alison Krauss, Anais Mitchell and Emmylou Harris). This has led to critics in South Africa (many of whom have likened her material to Alison Krauss/Robert Plant and Ryans Adams) uniformly praising Levine's output, with all three of her albums making it onto multiple Best Of lists in their respective years.

At the heart of Levine's material is her storytelling ability. Whether tales of grief, loss, sex, betrayal or first loves, Levine's ability to open a door with her words, and let listeners into an intimate world populated by a cast of lovers, strays, strangers is immense. This has given rise to a string of fan favourites and music videos for songs like "Kites", a nostalgic waltz through an early summer love, and "Oh Brother", a sparse but potent track that could easily be an outtake from Krauss and Plant's Grammy winning Raising Sand.

Whether solo or with onstage collaborators, Levine has supported her releases with a slate of live performances that have cemented her standing as an artist of real power – and helped mark her out as a melodious, soulful singer.

QUICK FACTS:
Laurie Levine is a prolific songwriter with a soulful voice that breathes life into her songs and embodies the emotional core of her lyrics. Her songs touch our unspoken corners and her sounds are a contemporary interpretation of true folk.

Two South African Music Award (SAMA) nominations and 2012 SAMA winner for best producer for Dan Roberts

Toured the UK November – December 2012 after signing with UK based Bob Paterson Agency (BPA) to rave reviews with headline and key support slots.

Second album "Living Room" in the top 10 albums of 2009 in The Sunday Times

Won a Standard Bank Silver Ovation award in 2011 for her performances at South Africa's biggest festival- the Grahamstown Arts festival

Support act for Joe Jackson and Rodriguez

Performed at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland and CBGB's in New York

Has performed at South Africa's leading festivals – Oppikoppi, The Joy of Jazz Festival, Splashy Fen, Levis Vintage Sundays, Mr Price Pro, Old Mutual Emmarentia Concert Series, White Mountain Folk Festival

Her single, 'Tonight' was placed in the Defy TV ad campaign- 2011-2012 while her song, 'Every little thing' was placed in the Eskom (SA's power supplier) TV ad campaign.

PRESS QUOTES & REVIEWS:
"Superior Americana ... remarkable for the quality of Levine's writing, for her delivery ... it all hangs together easily and with a touch of beauty" - UNCUT (UK)

"Her song writing insights and vocal delicacy will be warmly welcomed by those who like folk and country with an individual sparkle". - Daily Mirror (UK)

"This was Laurie Levine's first show on her first ever UK tour but on the basis of this gig she will soon find herself headlining her own tour" - The Bristol Post (UK)

"Singer-songwriter Laurie Levine's music speaks to the heart. Her style of emotive folk has been compared with that of Tori Amos, but Levine is a talent all on her own." - Mail and Guardian (South Africa)

The return social match against Amber Valley resulted in a narrow victory to Umgeni Waterfall Bowls Club. Thank you Amber Valley for a very enjoyable competition and warm hospitality. A splendid day with fun had by all.

Coming up we have a tournament sponsored by Moffat Optical on 4 August and the Moths Atomic Shellhole tournament on 18 August. Both tournaments require entries from more teams, please contact Dave Truscott 033 2394512 for more information or entry information.

The chicken competition sponsored by Greendale Spar is on the 7th August.

Club Duties:
Refreshments: 27 July – 2 August: Roger Freshman

Tabs: 24 – 30 July: Norman Chemaly and Dave Truscott
31 July – 6 August: Barbara Brook and Roger Nethersole

Tea: 23 July: Kathy Godleman; 24 July: Jeanette Cain; 27 July: Mabel Tully
30 July: Lyn Zadrazil; 31 July: Mavis Robson; 3 August: Mabel Tully

Is the Howick falls monster an invention hyped to draw curious tourists off the N3 to peer over the waterfall. The legend may have had its roots in ancient zulu culture which has a deep respect for the waterfall which is a sacred place.

In the past local zulus and their sangomas would sacrifice goats and chickens to the water god- known as the Inkanyamba. Over the years this legend has taken on a physical form in the minds and imaginations.

This monster is allegedly also said to eat the bodies of those who drown in the falls. Over thirty years ago the Inkanyamba was blamed for the death of a Zulu girl further up river at another falls. She was playing with her friends beside the river when she was pulled under and vanished. Of course this may have been a crocodile.

But vague stories of the sightings of this creatures still occur from time to time. In 1962 a Conservation Services Ranger, Mr. Buthelezi said he saw a "monster" on a sand bank whilst walking along the Umgein River near the Midmar Dam. It slithered off the bank as he and a friend approached.

Johannes Hlongwane was the caretaker of a caravan park near Howick Falls between 1969 and 1985. He saw the Inkanyamba twice, once in 1971 and again in 1981. It raised its head and neck thirty feet out of the water. It had a crest running along its back.

The only known photograph hat purports to show Inkanyamba was taken in the wake of a sighting local man Bob Teeny in September 1995. Whilst on a viewing platform beside the falls he claimed to have seen a snake like head and neck rear up out of the water. He had no camera at the time but put up a reward for anyone who could take a snapshot of the monster.

A resulting picture showed a long necked animal, apparently rising from the water. It appears to be holding waterweed in its mouth and has a distinctive banding of the skin. A researcher who examines mythical creatures from around the world including the infamous Loch Ness monster immediately spotted the monster picture was a hoax as it was an illustration of an Apatosaurus from a children's book of dinosaurs published in the 1970s.

The waterfall called Howick Falls is approximately 95 meters in height (311 feet) and is situated on the Umgeni River. The Zulu people called the falls KwaNogqaza, which means "Place of the Tall One". Sacred to the natives, only sangomas or traditional witch doctors can approach the lake to offer prayers to the creature.

Bodies found in the river may have bits missing which also seem to contribute to the legend but the decomposing flesh may have been eaten by eels or barbels. In the past the waterfall was sometimes used as a suicide spot.

The Inkanyamba are said by sceptics to be a population of giant migratory, carnivorous eels, which are allegedly indigenious to southern Africa. Anthropologist Sian Hall, who lives in Howick, says "sensation seekers" have embroidered the myth passed on by generations of Zulus in the area that a giant water snake water snake.

"There are no physical monsters in the Howick Falls," she wrote in a local newspaper article. "Giant eels, perhaps, and even huge otters, if that is your idea of a monster. But we do not need to misinform the public, nor to use their gullibility to attract tourists to Howick," she said.

Article supplied by Trish Beaver, proprietor of WhodunnitSA.

Kids out the house back to school?

Carpets and lounge suite in need of a clean?

As we all know cost of living souring and just cannot afford to maintain our homes the way we would like to.

Don’t despair, here are some specials on offer using our superior Hot Water Cleaning system.

6 SEATER LOUNGE SUITE FROM ONLY 655.00

SMALL 3 BED HOME FROM ONLY R899.00

Rates have been slashed, but for a limited time only.

Offer runs from July 22nd to 9th August 2013.

Terms and conditions apply.

Call Premium Cleaning today on 084 754 3887.

We had a very successful Moroccan Nights event at Corner Post on Thursday night. The restaurant was fully booked and buzzing with excitement. The restaurant was exquisitely decorated to suit the theme. As soon as you walked through the door and were greeted by the charming waiters and waitresses and exotic hint of incense burning, you felt as if you had been transported to the Middle East. The chef put together a delicious Moroccan menu that tantalised our taste buds and the beautiful belly dancing ladies danced throughout the evening putting on a spectacular show. It truly was a magical evening.

News in from Corner Post Restaurant & Bar, Howick, KZN.

HUCTO is staging its FIRST AGM on TUESDAY, 16 JULY, 2013, at 6 pm at St. Ives, and you are kindly invited to attend this auspicious event where you will learn more about the organisation and its plans.

There will be snacks aplenty, a talk by Roger and Pat de la Harpe on their photographic business and how it fits into tourism, then the AGM, followed by the draw for several fantastic prizes.

HUCTO thinks Howick and the Midlands deserves to have you "on board," so please try to attend - and bring a prize if you would like to.

HUCTO has also been approached by the organisers of Mandela Week (August 17 to 25) who are staging several events, the main one being a race from Pietermaritzburg to finish at the Mandela complex (at the Capture Site, Tweedie). We would appeal to you to assist in any way you can – special accommodation rates, special food prices and transport (as the race starts in Pietermaritzburg and finishes near Tweedie, participants will have to be transported from one to the other).

Please dig deep and assist HUCTO by letting us know how you can help – accommodation, food or transport. You can contact the HUCTO Secretary, Lorraine Bryant, at 033-3306192 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or the HUCTO Chairman, Kai Schulz, at 0836474595 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SEE YOU AT THE AGM ON JULY 16TH!!!!!

What a fabulous day it turned out to be at our annual Weekend Witness 1000 Paws Walk on Sunday the 30th June! The sun shone down upon us as hundreds of loyal SPCA supporters and their gorgeous pooches joined in a day of beautiful walks and masses of fun!

The day began either a leisurely stroll of 2km around the sports fields of Hilton College or a brisk 4km walk through their lovely plantations which resulted in pink healthy cheeks from the two legged folk and smiling, panting pooches.

In the events arena, there was plenty of entertainment to keep the spectators enthralled. The doggie demos from Funda Nenja, Bruntville and the SAAF were phenomenal, the Belly Dancers and Modern Dancers were a colourful array of delight, the Caledonian Band wowed us, the Sky Divers took our breath away with the winner of the paper plate stakes, Janet Angus, walking away with a fantastic weekend away at Bellwood Cottages for 14 people. The Tug-O-War made us laugh and we enjoyed the kids all beating the adults! Not to mention the fantastic display of Vintage Cars and Harley Davidsons gleaming in the sunshine! Delicious food hit the spot as the sounds of the talented Charles Webster and his band, Undercover, filtered through the marquee.

Other highlights of the event were the rolling plastic balls, aptly named Groovy Balls, which saw kids and adults alike rolling across the field in the ball, seeing things from a totally different perspective! The popular Paws Challenge that was set up and run by the 1st Howick Scout Troop brought proud dog owners and their dogs together as they tackled the obstacles on the course. The winning duo was Jimmy Mallett and Jemma. Over 30 stallholders sold their wares to many people looking to get in early and avoid the Christmas rush.

The arena also accommodated the event that we hold very dear to our hearts, the SPCA Dog of the Year competition whereby all dogs that are adopted from SPCA are proudly shown off by their owners. The competition was stiff as each and every pooch had their own endearing qualities that made them all rather special. Finally a decision was reached and Biscuit Hancock was pleased as punch to be announced the winner of the competition. Equally happy for the win were Biscuit's family, Dale and Tiffany Hancock and their children, Tannit and Callum. Second place went to Liz Bull and Lucy Lieu and 3rd place was clinched by Bianca Horne and Lucy, all deserving winners without a doubt!

Huge congratulations must also go to the winner of the spectacular first prize in our 1000 Paws raffle, Lyn Zadi, who walked away with a week's holiday at the magnificent splendour of Alpine Heath in the heart of the Drakensberg. Second prize winner, Colleen Andrews, was also extremely thrilled to win a weekend break at Engeleni Lodge and a Granny Mouse lunch voucher.

The sponsorships we received (cash donations and prizes) were absolutely amazing, ranging from lovely pamper goodies, luxury hampers, spa treatments, dinner vouchers, bed and breakfast vouchers, hair styling vouchers, doggie duvets, flea treatment vouchers, canopy tour vouchers and much more! We remain eternally grateful to our donors who gave so generously and supported our cause with such gusto!

Saving the best for last, we want to thank every single SPCA supporter who shared in the day with us. The PMB SPCA, uMngeni SPCA and the Mooi River SPCA would not have had the successful day we had without YOUR support and we remain indebted and thankful to you all for being the fierce animal warriors you continue to be.

Article kindly supplied by uMgeni SPCA.

Photograph: Proud winner of the Best SPCA Dog Competition 2013, Biscuit, enjoying the day with his family (from left to right), Tannit, Callum and Tiffany Hancock

Please note that our Fun day date has changed from the 7th July until the 9th August – National Women's day and a public holiday. Put in your diary now and we will keep you up to date with more details soon.

After many comments and general feedback we have decided that it's essential we explain to you all our limitations and mandate. There seem to be a unrealistic expectations and negative comments about our inability to fulfil our perceived mandate here at FreeMe.

A key area of discussion is Hadedas. There have been reports of Hadedas with string around their feet – sadly and as we tell callers there is very little we can do to help if the bird is flying. Even with them on the ground there is no magic muti or special technique to catching these birds and we fully understand that it is very distressing to see them battling to walk.

We get on average at least 20 to 30 calls of this nature a month, and have learnt from hard experience that we could spend all our time and our entire budget on them and in theses financially trying times it time and budget are better spent helping those hadedas brought to our clinic.

The sad fact is that, since Rob Taylor's demise FreeMe is battling to survive. This year we have had to reduce our staff numbers and have sold one vehicle, which means that we only have two full time employees, to carry out all the duties of the centre and one of those has to be based at FreeMe.  Rising costs and a focus on budget has meant we need to halve our diesel budget, made harder as we don't charge for call outs or recoup costs on call outs.

Another sad matter is that we have stopped taking in AFS Students because of the cost factor to FreeMe. We would love to continue this training programme. Yet we have seen a significant decline in donations and not all visitors leave money in our box.

Again, with monkeys and "problem" animals, we are not mandated to remove these, and are, in fact, not allowed to do so. We are here for the animals who find themselves in life threatening circumstances and those are our priority. We hope that everyone now understands our financial situation and our mandate and will support our staff as we work through these very difficult and distressing circumstances.

What is business coaching?
It is the process of coaching business owners to better their businesses through mentorship, guidance, support, accountability and encouragement.

Who conducts business coaching?
Business coaches are responsible for the coaching. Business owners should seek the services of certified business coaches. The success of a business does not necessarily mean the company owner is a good coach. Business coaches have broad and deep business experience, and are fellow business owners who have invested and continue to invest their time, money, and energy to make their own various business ventures successful.

What is the role of a business coach?
It is to help owners of small- and medium/large-sized businesses with all aspects of business such as mindset, sales, marketing, management, team building – and more. Most importantly, just like a sport coach, a business coach makes you focus on the game.

Why would I need a business coach?
Every great performer whether an athlete, performer or businessperson is surrounded by coaches and advisors. And as the world of business moves faster and gets more competitive it's difficult to keep abreast of changes. Having a business coach is no longer a luxury it has become a necessity. It is possible to survive without a coach but it's difficult to thrive. Based on sales, marketing, and business management systems, your business revenues and profits will increase - often quite dramatically. You will also be coached to develop your business so that you, as the owner, can work less, relax more, and finally enjoy business ownership.

How will a coach help me?
Your coach can see the wood as well as the trees. He/she will listen; make you focus on the game; make you run more 'laps' than you feel like tackling; tell it to you like it is; give you ideas you hadn't thought about. At one tenth of the cost, your coach will be your marketing manager, sales director, training coordinator, partner, confidant, mentor – and your best friend. Your coach will help you make your dreams come true. If you do the work!

Is there a business coach in Howick?
Yes... well almost! ActionCOACH is a business coaching and mentoring company based in Hilton.

What can ActionCOACH do for me?
It is structured to provide you, the business owner, with short-term assistance and long-term results through a mentoring approach. Its clients, and the hundreds of thousands of clients and seminar attendees worldwide, will attest to the power of the programmes.

Who could I approach for referrals?
Derryn Fourie, of Midmar Crushers attends coaching session every week and is a firm fan of business coaching: "I have seen a steady growth in my business over the past three years and I would never have reached the targets accomplished on my own."

Clive and Linda Foss of Riverside Trading (Nottingham Road Hotel and Gowrie Country Club) attend sessions on alternate weeks and their respective businesses have developed beyond expectations: "Our initial scepticism has turned to complete faith in business coaching."

July Mweli of Heathcliff Farming: "I wouldn't be here where I stand today had my employee not sent me to a business coach. I hold out my hand in gratitude."

Mark Heinrich of Jaxx Restaurant: "I didn't think I needed a coach because my established restaurant in Tweni was doing well. When Jaxx opened in The Quarry Centre in Hilton I noticed we were next door to ActionCOACH. I conducted research, gave it a try and, with the help of coaching we have put tried-and-tested systems in place and we have moved forward more rapidly than ever anticipated. We've seen a healthy profit growth and the attitude of our staff tell a positive story."

Trevor Rawlins of Commercial Fleet Claims Adjusters has enjoyed similar success in his business: "It's a fact, business coaching works. I have seen a considerable growth in my annual profit."

Pastor Jabu Mnculwane of Project Gateway: "You have no idea how ActionCOACH has changed my life."

What can I expect to pay for a business coach?
This is for you to discuss with the coach during your complimentary, obligation-free business assessment, hour-and-a-half feedback session. The company offers a selection of books; one-to-one coaching; ActionCLUB: a 10/12-month group coaching programme that has been structured to help delegates learn, implement, sustain and grow their businesses, revenues and profits – monthly meetings, and between-sessions webinars ensure an understanding of the previous session's content and successful implementation; GrowthCLUB: a full-day, quarterly, intensive and exclusive 90-day business-planning workshop with coaching and educational content, aiming to establishing an effective and executable strategy for your business - as with quarterly planning in large organisations, small- and medium-business owners are given the opportunity to participate in a business-building day with like-minded owners.

Are there any guarantees that business coaching will work for me?
The short answer in no! You must remember your coach is just that – you are the player and it's up to you to take the field. Your coach will push you, cajole you, help you, be there for you – and even do some things with you – but you have to do the work. Only you can be accountable for your success. A business coach guarantees to give you the best service possible – and remember your success is your coach's success. We do offer a 17 week 7 point guarantee in certain circumstances.

How do I get more information about business coaching?
ActionCOACH is a phone call away! 033 343 2960

Mark and Marianne Taylor owners of Greetings DVD and Coffee Shop, were the first local community focused business to introduce the concept of "Suspended Coffee" in Howick.

This old tradition comes from post war days in Europe when wealthy patrons of cafés would buy themselves a cup of coffee and also buy one (in advance) for a less fortunate person. The tradition was started in Italy after the war and was known as "caffe sospeso" literally translated to suspended coffee and is an anonymous act of charity.

Mark, who manages the shop said the concept is now starting to take off in Howick. Mark says "Everyone is feeling the pinch from the slow economy and if we can help someone who is less fortunate than ourselves then it makes us feel good. We heard about the concept and thought it would be a great idea to share with our Howick community. A lot of the people who come to our coffee shop are pensioners and some are well off and others not. It is a great thing to be able to offer a nice cup of coffee to someone who really needs it.

I believe Howick residents are family orientated with big hearts and they are not immune to seeing those who are less fortunate suffer in these tough times. As a shop owner I see people counting out the coins to buy a small meal and others who go without. I think this is a small way to show we can all make a difference."

Those who buy suspended coffee have it recorded on a log pin up board and if a person comes and asks if there is any suspended coffee, Mark can immediately see whether there are any available. The suspended coffee is takeaway only and does not cover meals unless the donor has specified this. As the manager, Mark will monitor to see if people are taking a chance when asking for a suspended coffee. "It is about spreading goodwill and I am sure the spirit will prevail" says Mark.

Mark says "A cup of coffee is just the thing to put back that warm feeling of comfort into the stomach of someone who may be feeling the pinch, it's a caffeine pickup and a gesture of caring."

Mark and Marianne would also like to encourage other local restaurants to implement the idea. Let us know if you are?

Article and pictures kindly supplied by Mark Taylor.

The Karkloof Conservancy held their 17th Annual Game Count on the 5 July 2013. This year the weather conditions were superb, with the moon shining brightly over the Karkloof Valley and the wind behaving itself for a change.

We are overjoyed with the brilliant participation we had from our farmers, foresters and landowners in the Karkloof. Being strategically planned to coincide with the schools holidays, we are able to encourage family participation to ensure that the younger generation can be included in the excitement of the evening.

Carolyn Goble, Chairlady of the Karkloof Conservancy, welcomed everyone to the Karkloof Country Club with warm cup of Gluhwein after their count.  Janine Smith, of the Lions River Honorary Officers (HO), assisted us once again to collate all the data for a comparison with previous game counts so that everyone could see how the numbers were doing. Janine also rallied some extra HO's to assist some of our farmers with their game count. Pieter Duys, representative of Rockwood Lodges which is situated in the Karkloof Nature Reserve, remarked that the help he received from the HO's was invaluable. He was so happy to have had them join him and their keen eyes even spotted a Bush Baby!

Our numbers were up for many game species such as our Common Reedbuck, Bushbuck, Duiker, Bushpig and Jackal.

Our Waterbuck, Oribi, Porcupine and Hares numbers were down, although they remain stable according to the trends. We had some other interesting sightings such as Wattled Cranes, Stanley Bustards, Samango monkeys, Serval, Caracal, African Wild Cat, Otters, Mongooses, Owls and Nightjars.

We would like to thank all our members, SAPPI, Mondi, UCL, KZN Wildlife and the Lions River Honorary Officers for their support, enthusiasm and participation which makes our Annual Game Count the success it is today.

We encourage everyone to participate in their local Conservancy's game count no matter how small your land is, because it really is a fun community event, and you'll be surprised what you see when you're actually looking!

Pictures and news kindly supplied by Midlands Conservancies Forum

The following news has been shared by Umgeni Waterfall Bowls Club.

Competitions

Congratulations to the winning team of Barbara Brook, Eddie Speed and Mike Cain in the chicken competition, sponsored by Greendale KwikSpar.

We look forward to the return social match on Friday 19 July when Amber Valley bowlers will demonstrate how to play the game on their turf.

The tournament sponsored by Moffat Optical is on 4 August and the Moths Atomic Shellhole tournament is on 18 August.

Club Duties:
Refreshments: 13 – 19 July: Trevor James

Tabs: 10 – 16 July: Roger Freshman and Terry Elmer
17 – 23 July: Graham Mallon and Piet van Rensburg

Tea: 16 July: Kathy Godleman; 17 July: Lyn Zadrazil; 20 July: Mavis Robson

Social Bowls
Every Wednesday and Saturday, tabs in by 1.30pm. Whites.
Every Tuesday morning, tabs in by 9.00 am until further notice. Casual. Visitors most welcome.

FREE Coaching takes place on a regular basis.

For any enquiries kindly contact: John Withers on 033-239 5376, Graeme Cameron on 033-330 3457, Hilary Williams on 033-3303992 or Barry Bedworth on 033-239 5445.

BeyCom Computer Consultants owner Greg Beyrooti bought his first computer in 1983 and has been actively involved in the IT industry since 1989. Having originally trained as a teacher Greg also completed a BSC in Computer Science and has a number of other IT related qualifications. Greg has taught Computer Science and Computer Literacy in schools throughout Southern Africa as well as training many Corporate Clients at all levels, including Managing Directors.

At BeyCom we have also worked with numerous small and medium sized businesses in both South Africa and Botswana assisting them to make the most out of their limited IT Budgets. Greg also has experience working on a telephone helpline assisting clients nationwide with various hardware and software related queries.

"I believe that a computer should make your life easier, not more difficult", says Greg. "Too often modern IT solutions require that you either undergo intensive training or spend valuable time finding out how to do something. Surely that isn't why you invested in IT? Beycom Computer Consultants will help you get the best possible use from your computers with a custom-made solution to your individual needs."

The following news has been shared by Umgeni Waterfall Bowls Club.

Competitions

On Wednesday 10 July the popular monthly chicken competition, kindly sponsored by Greendale Kwikspar, will take place.

The tournament sponsored by Moffat Optical is on 4 August and the Moths Atomic Shellhole tournament is on 18 August.

On Friday 19 July the return social match with Amber Valley is on their home 'Green'.

For enquiries concerning these tournaments please contact Dave Truscott 033 239 4512 or May Blackford 033 239 5532

In the Lambert Trophy on 6 July, Lynwood were victorious by three matches to one, with our pairs team our only success.

In the Ladies Sanders competition we lost by three matches to one with the fours team our only success.

Club Duties:
Refreshments: 13 – 19 July: Trevor James

Tabs: 10 – 16 July: Roger Freshman and Terry Elmer
17 – 23 July: Graham Mallon and Piet van Rensburg

Social Bowls
Every Wednesday and Saturday, tabs in by 1.30pm. Whites.
Every Tuesday morning, tabs in by 9.00 am until further notice. Casual. Visitors most welcome.

FREE Coaching takes place on a regular basis. For any enquiries kindly contact: John Withers on 033-239 5376, Graeme Cameron on 033-330 3457, Hilary Williams on 033-3303992 or Barry Bedworth on 033-239 5445.

This year the Dargle Conservancy celebrates a decade of conservation.  Originally, the Dargle Conservancy was formed in 1985 and despite the break of a few years of active conservation, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife recently recognised their almost 30 year commitment and outstanding contribution to conservation. Since it was re-established in 2003, Dargle Conservancy has worked hard to improve awareness of biodiversity conservation in the Midlands.

Many landowners are keen to share the splendour of their surroundings and regular, guided walks take place in Kilgobbin and Lemonwood forests and across the grass covered hills at Satori. These are popular with those who don't usually have access to the countryside, and serve to inspire everyone to cherish the biodiversity and to understand the eco-system goods and services which these areas provide humanity.

For many years, Dargle Conservancy has been working towards having a large area of private land officially proclaimed as part of the KZN Biodiversity Stewardship Programme to protect areas which contain critically important habitats, including Midlands Mist-belt Grasslands and indigenous Eastern Mist-belt Forests, home to many endangered species. The 1000ha Dargle Nature Reserve should be proclaimed by the end of this year incorporating 5 privately owned properties. These forward-thinking landowners are to be commended for their impressive contribution to conservation and for taking seriously their role as custodians of an important water catchment and some of the most vulnerable biodiversity in South Africa.

Join the Dargle Conservancy to mark this occasion on 9/10/11 August. Celebrations include a long table local dinner in the 100 year old Corrie Lynn Barn with David Johnson as guest speaker, a hike and picnic on Inhlosane, a walk through forest and grassland of the Dargle Nature Reserve with land art sculptures to celebrate the landscape. This is a weekend not to be missed! Have a look at the HowickVillage.co.za Events Pages for more information and contact details.

Pictures:
Inhlosane by Jethro Bronner
Forest Walk by Karen Edwards

As a HowickVillage.co.za staffer I was privileged to be invited to spend a few hours with Ethembeni in Mpophomeni last week. For those of you that are not aware Ethembeni is a NGO working to educate, and care for those in the Mpophomeni area who are sick and vulnerable whether adults or children affected or infected by HIV & AIDS.

I was introduced to two gentlemen in the Residential Care Centre with AIDS who have a safe and warm place to stay, a nursing sister looking over them and ensuring the appropriate medications is given, nutritious food and knowing there are people who care. A volunteer doctor attends the centre and along with the onsite team monitor the care of the residents. I heard wonderful stories of residents who had been so unwell they could not stand to now being successful working members of the Howick community. The care centre also runs a weekly clinic and a home based family support programme as well as a perinatal programme

I was then welcomed to their regular Thursday morning briefing before the many volunteers and carers head out into the community to offer support; spiritual, emotional and advisory. Although cold and rainy it was an experience to warm anyone's heart.

The morning gathering started with a song – bringing goose bumps to my skin, then visitors (me, a young volunteer from England and three new volunteers from the community were personally welcomed by Grant Edkins - Director). I within minutes felt one of the team. One of the carers shared with us a reading meaningful to her from the bible – this was then translated to English. After brief notices and discussion about which teams would take which vehicles, like a well-oiled machine all volunteers and staff distributed maize and food (donated by A-Maize and Merrivale and Greendale Spar's) to each vehicle.

I was then taken to the Family Care Centre which although chaotic as undergoing some much needed renovation, was so full of love I was quite overcome. At this home the team of 14 look after upto 80 children each day, make sure they have a healthy meal, get to and from school safely and are sent home with sandwiches for dinner. The children attending this centre are from teenage headed households. The teenagers drop the little ones off at the centre on their way to school, go to the centre for lunch after school, do their home work, work on computers and then they all go home with sandwiches. The rooms were being tiled and painted to make them safe for the children, a new bathroom fitted so that there are enough ablutions to comply with health and safety regulations. Due to this upheaval there were beautiful youngsters gathered in the makeshift kitchen, they kitchen was filled with children exchanging high fives, tickles and laughter while the older children were singing, braiding hair and chatting in a room partitioned off from the building. I am sure once complete, all will be so thrilled. The babes will have a separate sleeping area while the older children have somewhere to study, do homework and receive computer lessons weekly.

I could go on about the wonders of this organisation for pages but perhaps I will leave you wanting to hear more about the community outreach, AIDS and HIV education, work readiness programme, opportunities for volunteers, support with childcare for families affected by HIV/AIDS.

If ever a time comes when we remember where we have come from as a country, this is an organisation that shows us white, black, young or old we all have a role to play and can make our wonderful country stronger one step at a time. I was reminded that just 20 years ago a gathering of song, prayer and support of all colours and creeds was illegal – we should be so proud of what we have achieved and challenged by what we can add to our future on a personal level as well as on a national level. Thank you Madiba for making this possible and thank you to Grant, his team and the local community for making it happen.

Wow, we are almost half way through the year mid-year exams behind us. So apart from thinking of the finals at the end of the year excitement starts to build about "The Matric Dance". And "that" special dress to make you feel like a princess for the night. I remember pouring over patterns and fabrics and wondering which would be best for me and the memory of that special evening is still with me (as is my dress). Well mum's and matric's here is one less thing for you to worry about. Stunning Stiches owned by Janet Waring, local award winning seamstress can make that dress of your dreams.

Great pride and care is taken when creating a dress. Stunning Stiches will advise you of the best quality and affordable fabrics and will finish your special dress to perfection including with hand-stitches and beading if required.

Janet has been sewing for over 40 years and will be able to assist you make that dream come true, whether a dance dress, a wedding dress or other special occasion.

In addition Stunning Stiches offer sewing lessons and can make the quilt of your dreams for you.

The Gold & Silver Dealer has recently opened at Merrivale Spar shopping centre and has an uncanny resemblance to the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop featured on the Hit reality series Pawn Stars on the History Channel. The owner Cameron is an avid fan of the show and draws much inspiration from it.

The shop features the largest collection of Hallmarked silver for sale in the Midlands showcasing a wide variety of pieces from all over the globe and dates from the 18th century right until today.

Not only are they specialists in Silver but have a good collection of  fine glass including Radioactive Uranium Glass ranging from the late 19th to mid-20th century. There is also a selection of other interesting collectibles like the working model steam engine.

The Gold & Silver Dealer welcome customers to bring in Silver, Gold and certain collectibles for dating, distinguishing hallmarks and general information. Cameron advises to not sell something unless you know exactly what it is.

They buy gold and silver (including jewellery, coins, flatware etc.) for competitive and accurate pricing, regardless of condition. Aware that they are often dealing in client’s precious possessions, privacy, discretion and dignity of their clients is of upmost importance.

Cash flow solutions are also offered in the form of pawn broking. Very reasonable interest rates with no credit bureau checks, however ID is required.