KZN Philharmonic Orchestra presents…
Music for Flute, Cello and Piano
Church of the Cross: Hayfields: Sun 2 June at 3pm

The KZN Philharmonic presents a one-off afternoon concert of music for flute, cello and piano, taking place at the Church of the Cross, 2 Bester Road in Hayfields, Pietermaritzburg on Sunday 2 June at 3pm.

The concert features Sabine Baird on flute; Marguerite Spies on cello and Maggie Deppe on piano who will play a carefully selected programme of music for Flute, Cello and Piano, as part of the church’s Music under the Cross series.

As well as being good friends, all three performers play with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra.

The programme comprises: A Vivaldi - Sonata in A Minor for Flute and Basso Continuo; Ludwig van Beethoven - Allegro from Sonata for Cello and Piano in A Major; Ludwig van Beethoven - Theme and Variations for Flute and Piano; E Bloch - The Prayer; F Poulenc - Sonata for Flute and Piano; John Walton - Groovy Perpetuale and CM von Weber. Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano.

Tickets are R100 via Quicket https://qkt.io/XvYpz2 or R120 at the door.

Pictured here: Sabine Baird on flute; Marguerite Spies on cello and Maggie Deppe on piano.

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Contact us to learn more!

Call 033 330 3601 or visit us at 101 Main Street, Howick.

'One day can change your whole life!' This is the slogan for Global Wellness Day 2024 which will be celebrated on 8 June.

Yoga has an ancient philosophy dating back thousands of years. These days it's worth knowing that yoga is a serious workout, designed to keep your body and mind in the best state possible, no matter if you're young or old, whilst relaxing and unwinding away from the modern stresses of everyday life.

From a health perspective the benefits move well beyond a flexible body and a healthy mind. Yoga is the ultimate act of harmony between one's physical existence and spiritual consciousness. Practising yoga teaches us about the body and mind discipline, by uniting or connecting both body and mind.

Benefits of practicing yoga include:
Help manage and ease symptoms of chronic conditions
Encourages physical, mental and emotional relaxation - which in turn improves quality of sleep
Improves core strength and flexibility
Enhances well-being
Helps with weight loss and maintenance
Promotes mindfulness
Alleviates stress and anxiety
Helps the memory
Improves digestion
Builds resilience
Improves attention and focus

Yoga is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Why not book a yoga session outside in nature? Connecting with the natural world is essential for overall well-being and what better time to start than now!

Bron Bates is a certified restorative yoga teacher, based in the KZN Midlands. She focuses on a gentle approach and it is suitable for all levels of practice.

Bron (pictured top left) is based at Fordoun Hotel & Spa in Nottingham Road, KZN Midlands www.fordoun.com

Author credit: Liza Williams

Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Liza has a deeply rooted love for all things wellness and her career as a Somatologist has taken her to different parts of the world.

She enjoys connecting with people and her hobbies include travel and tourism, photography, music and aesthetics.

Liza lives with her family in Nottingham Road, Midlands, South Africa.

Photo credits: Bron Bates and Liza Williams.

Simon Phiri, a Zimbabwean-born artist and illustrator residing in Bulawayo, specialises in pencil, charcoal and graphite drawings. His inspiration is beautifully captured in varying scenes of African tribal people, historical scenes, wildlife, and day-to-day life. Simon’s exquisitely detailed drawings win him commissions across the globe.

Catch up with Simon Phiri and his memorable drawings at ART in the Country in Hilton 22-25 May 2025, at Harrington House.

NEXT EVENT

Carol’s ongoing love for our indigenous flora and birdlife is depicted in her unique contemporary botanical paintings using oils on canvas.

Based in Hilton, Carol Cox enjoys plein-air painting at many of the Midlands' gorgeous outdoor destinations. You may have seen her at the local river walk, but to be sure to meet - visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.

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Bob is a long-standing artist with a gallery in the Eastern Cape seaside town of Port Alfred. Schooled in the Old Master oil painting tradition of WG Wiles, Bob has since adopted the motto of “getting out of your comfort zone and painting anything and everything". His work is featured in collections in South Africa and internationally.

Bob McKenzie will join 61 premier artists exhibiting at Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country, open at Harrington House in Hilton.

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'I am an artist specialising in oils, with a passion for portraying nature and wildlife in their natural habitats, drawing inspiration from my deep interest in conservation.'said Lynda Buchanan Clarke.

This top-class annual art exhibition happens from 22 - 25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College Road.

More about Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country

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Just ONE week left to get everything done, so that you are free to spend every day at ART in the Country!!!

“We’re buzzing with excitement for our upcoming ‘Art in the Country’ event at Harrington House! Join us from May 23-26 for a top-quality art showcase that you simply can’t miss. Mark your calendars and experience the beauty of creativity in a stunning setting! “ Harrington House.

Next up 22-25 May 2025!

Your Safety is TOP PRIORITY!
>>> Stay Calm...
Panic can cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm.
>>> Alert Others...
If you suspect a fire or hear a fire alarm, never ignore it.
Your first reaction should be to:
- Grab your keys (if available).
- Alert the people around you.
- Go immediately.
>>> Stay Low...
If there’s smoke or fumes, stay low to avoid inhaling toxic gases.
>>> Check the Door...
- Feel the doorknob or higher on the door with the back of your hand. If it feels hot, fire may be on the other side. Keep the door shut.
- Stuff clothing, towels, or newspapers in the door’s cracks to keep smoke out.
- Even if the door is cool, open it slowly. Stand low and to one side in case smoke seeps around it.
>>> Exit Safely...
- If the hallway is clear of smoke, walk calmly to the nearest fire exit and use the stairs (NEVER use elevators).
- Close doors behind you to confine the fire as much as possible.
- If the alarm isn’t sounding, pull the fire alarm on your way out or yell “fire” to alert others.
>>> Outdoor Safety...
- Move quickly to an open area away from buildings, trees, power lines, and roadways.
- If your building has a designated assembly area, head there.
>>> Trapped Inside a Room...
- Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.
- Seal cracks around the door to prevent smoke from entering.
- If you have a working phone, call emergency services and provide your building’s name, address, room number, and that you’re trapped.
- Signal from a window if necessary (but avoid breaking the glass unless absolutely necessary).
>>> Upper Floors of a Tall Building...
- Put a wet cloth under closed doors to prevent smoke spread.
- Call emergency services and provide details.
- Hang a brightly colored cloth or bed sheet out the window to signal your location.
- Use a flashlight to signal at night if available.

www.activefire.co.za

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many found themselves in dreadful financial situations. However, for Nonhlanhla Mchunu (47), it became an opportunity to start a business and support her family. Using money that she borrowed from her neighbours during the pandemic, Nonhlanhla, with the unwavering support of her husband, Mthokozisi, managed to open a Tuckshop that has since become an important part of her community.

Nonhlanhla had always dreamed of running her own business. The money that she borrowed was a small but essential starting point. "I had no job and no form of income. I had to borrow the money I used to start my Tuckshop,” recalls Nonhlanhla. "Eventually I was able to buy things that the community needed by saving my profits," she added. Mthokozisi, proud of his wife’s determination, states, "I am proud of my wife, and I try by all means to support her where I can."

The Tuckshop, located in the heart of the community of Mpophomeni township, has become a vital resource for many families. Mchunu's business has even expanded to include the sale of chickens and gas tanks. Local resident, Nokuthula Duma, highlights how important the store is to her. "I buy things to make sandwiches for my children from her Tuckshop because it is close and convenient." The store provides essential goods, saving residents time and travel expenses, which was especially crucial during the pandemic when movement was restricted.

Nonhlanhla’s cousin, Senzo Madlala, shares his own form of support: "I buy cigarettes from her store every day just to show support to my cousin." The support that she receives from her family is integral to the functioning of the store and the functioning of Nonhlanhla.

Running the Tuckshop has not been easy. Break-ins have been a significant issue, leading Nonhlanhla to take extreme measures to protect her livelihood. "People broke into my store several times. I ended up sleeping in my store to make sure everything is safe," Nonhlanhla recounts. Despite these setbacks, her determination remains unbroken.

The community’s support has been a cornerstone of the Tuckshop’s success. "The community has been incredibly supportive," says Nonhlanhla. "They even give me suggestions on what to stock up on so that they can buy from my Tuckshop, rather than going to the store." From regular customers to neighbours offering help, the Tuckshop is a testament to the collective spirit that has helped many small businesses thrive during these challenging times.

Mchunu’s Tuckshop is more than just a store; it is a symbol of resilience and community solidarity. It stands as a beacon of hope, showing that with determination, support, and a little bit of help, dreams can be realised even in the most challenging circumstances.

Author and photo credit: Nonjabulo Myeni, pictured here RHS.

About the Author:
I'm a passionate journalism student dedicated to using my voice to amplify the stories of often overlooked communities. My work centers on the belief that every story matters, and I strive to bring attention to the unique challenges and triumphs of those who are often unheard. I have a keen interest in the transformative power of arts, culture, and sports, especially for the youth. Through my reporting, I aim to highlight how these elements can inspire, unite, and empower young people, fostering a sense of identity and community.

It’s a passion of Tess’s to be able to capture a moment in time with the aid of photography; the outcome being, to capture the imagination and to leave a lasting impression on the viewer.

Visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.

Jan Airton, a local artist from Hilton will be exhibiting at this years Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country. This will be Jan’s third year exhibiting… her love of animals can be seen in her paintings.

To view Jan's latest creations - visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.

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'We certainly covered Piggly Wiggly in blankets! Thank you and well done to everyone who participated.

The final tally was 267 blankets. We still have 200 plus squares to sew up!

Sean from the Round Table along with fellow members will be distributing the blankets when the first cold snap comes.

The winners are the 267 people who will be a little warmer this winter.' said Gill Pryke at the close of the Piggly Wiggly Blanket Appeal 2024 event.

Pictured top left: Hilton Round Tablers collecting all the blankets.

Below top to bottom: Amazing supporters included Pevensey Place residents all the way from Underberg, Sunfield Home from Howick, talented local marimab band Music Voyage, and providing support behind the scenes is Rudi Kassier from Piggly Wiggly.

Photo credit: Stephen Pryke Photography - This amazingly talented photographer can be found on some weekends at the Piggly Wiggly retail outlet of Glass Cuttings!

Please direct any questions and offers of assistance for Piggly Wiggly Warm Embrace to Gill Pryke on 082 254 4798.

You’re invited to a Hill’s Pet Parent Talk on "Fighting the effects of ageing in our senior pets" at Midlands Veterinary Hospital
🔹Saturday 25 May 2024
🔹1-3pm
🔹Eats and Drinks provided
🔹Lots of goodies and freebies
Book today email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0333306184
https://www.facebook.com/events/765046799051087/

Another round of league games finished and not many left to go.

Our ladies team played on Saturday and Sunday and whilst they didn’t add many points to the log, all our players put in their absolute best efforts. The team captain, Lisa Nagel skipped against one of the district’s top bowlers on Sunday and had a great game with some absolute “cracker” shots. Well done Lisa and team and best of luck for your next and final round at the end of the week.

Our men’s team had a different experience in their game against Maritzburg Bowling Club, where they added a fantastic ten points to the log. Well done chaps! It’s so great for us to have a nice win under our belts this season and here’s to next week where we hope we see more of the same.

We’re all set to welcome Duzi Pigeon Racing Club to our activity list from next week and have also decided to change our social Hillbillie bowlers to a Thursday. Unfortunately, another local club decided our social bowls on a Wednesday was a winning recipe and so, you guessed it… they have started the exact same thing on the same day! In any event, we’ve made the decision to move our social bowlers to a Thursday, starting from 4.30pm, and followed by a bring and braai afterwards. Hillbilles is a great place for new and prospective bowlers to get a feel for the game, learn the basics and have a really good time. Anyone wanting to give it a try or join us can contact Wendy on 071 353 2866 for more information.

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

Events to keep an eye out for…

Friday, 31 May: Dormehl Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45 (Book with Pippa on 083 467 8140)

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h45
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

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

For more information or enquiries about coaching, contact Ann on 071 676 5591.

Pictured here: Some of our hillbilles enjoying a social game of 4-3-2-1.

Well done to Gill Pryke of Glass Cuttings at Piggly Wiggly, pictured here with Robyn Day on the left (MUSHKA's driving force, who made 47 blankets from donated fleece) and Judi Joubert in the middle. This amazing lady is an artist and business owner who has a full day every day, and yet made time to fit in co-ordinating her long-held vision of a yarn bomb event for charity at Piggly Wiggly, which looks festive wrapped up in lovingly stitched blankets.

Thank you's are due to so many more also - there have been numerous supporters of this heartfelt drive. From those who donated wool, to Sew What for the wool discount and for being a collection/drop off point along with Village Talk, to the muscle power behind stringing up lines upon which the blankets are displayed, to Increda-Peg for their extraordinarily useful pegs, to Terri at the Piggly coffee shop who has shown bottomless enthusaism and given away litres of coffee for this blanket appeal, to every knitter and stitcher... and the precious folk at Pevensy Place and Sunfield Home who also brought blankets to donate. This has been the success of a whole team.

Hilton Round Table will collect the blankets at the end of the day tomorrow to ensure they reach the most needy communities. How polite of winter to join in by holding back on the chilly weather that is expected at this time of year!

Please direct any questions and offers of assistance for Piggly Wiggly Warm Embrace to Gill Pryke on 082 254 4798.

BARRY HILTON
Tuesday, July 30th
Show Starts at 19.30
R280 per person

Get yourself some thigh-slapping, snort-out-loud kinda laughter with comedian Barry Hilton at The Bull Ring, Netherwood Farm in Nottingham Road this JULY.

Having your funny bone tickled by South Africa's favourite family-friendly comedian is definitely a great way to spend an evening out with friends and family.

Barry has an uncanny knack of finding the humour in everyday situations that everyone can relate to and laugh about. People of all ages and backgrounds have been laughing with Barry for over four decades, making him somewhat of a comedy icon in South Africa.

With humour that is never rude or crude, he leaves his audience in stitches and always wanting more.

To book and support Midlands Hospice email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Entries for the Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa’s (IWMSA’s) biennial KZN Waste Management Awards are now open to all industries and businesses operating in KwaZulu-Natal, that generate waste and have implemented or are planning waste management initiatives aligned with best practices.

The primary objective of these awards, sponsored by Gidela Plastics, Interwaste, Averda, Triplo 4
and Hirt & Carter (HCG), is to engage organisations across the province in adopting efficient and effective waste management practices. By recognising and promoting best practices in waste management, the IWMSA aims to acknowledge the achievements of those contributing to responsible and effective waste management in KwaZulu-Natal.

These awards comprehensively evaluate waste management practices, requiring identification of all waste streams and adherence to the waste management hierarchy principle. Specifically, recognition is also given to organisations and companies that are actively working to improve society's environmental footprint, with a focus on internal waste stream management.

Heather Sheard, Technical Coordinator and IWMSA KZN Branch Manager said, "These awards play a crucial role in driving awareness and action towards sustainable waste management practices."

Who Can Enter
Businesses falling under the following categories in KwaZulu-Natal are eligible to enter:
• Small General Manufacturing: Industries with up to 250 employees
• Large General Manufacturing: Industries with more than 250 employees
• Service Industry: Any organisation offering services, such as retail centres, hospitality establishments, and educational institutions

Why Enter
Past entrants and winners have reported numerous benefits, including comprehensive waste audits, cost reductions, improved efficiency, and valuable recommendations from expert judges. Winners also receive press coverage to showcase their achievements.

Entry Requirements and Process
Entries can be submitted online at https://www.iwmsa.co.za/kzn-waste-awards-2024 until 31st July 2024. A judging team comprising waste management professionals will conduct on-site audits between August and October 2024. Audits will cover various aspects, including management, cleaner production initiatives, waste generation, and social responsibility.

Previous Winners
In 2022, Defy Appliances eZakheni secured the top spot in the Large Manufacturing category, while USE-IT Waste Beneficiation emerged victorious in the Small Manufacturing category. T&T Bed and Breakfast clinched the Service Category award for their commitment to sustainable living and zero waste to landfill goals.

Heather Sheard commented, "These awards are instrumental in driving positive change and recognising industry leaders in waste management practices."

For More information please contact:
Heather Sheard
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel: 031 109 0000

Supplied.