The Bulletin Newspaper

ISSUE 253 - FREE

13

DECEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS. ORIGINAL - ACCURATE - FIRST

017 631 1903 / 017 631 1845 • admin@thebulletin.co.za • 1 Kiewiet Street, Secunda (Lake Umuzi)

Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner awards good work done by police members, safer festive operation launched The Provincial Commissioner hosted a Prestigious event on the night of 6 December at Graceland (Secunda) to award SAPS members in Mpumalanga for their relentless efforts in fighting crime and ensuring that the community is always safe.

The well organised event, which was in style, drew dignitaries from Mpumalanga as well as other provinces. This occasion was graced by the attendance of the MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Gabisile Shabalala, the House of Traditional Leaders led by Inkhosi SG Ngomane, the District Mayor of Gert Sibande Municipality Cllr Muzi G Chirwa, senior Management of SAPS from Head Office accompanied by some Provincial Commissioners, senior officials from various government departments, Community Police Forum representatives, the sponsors, media houses as well as stakeholders in the fight against crime. The Leadership of the police, in partnership with the MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, thought it befitting to spare a bit of time from their busy

schedule and converge at Secunda to appreciate SAPS members from the province for their hard work which is hardly appreciated. MEC Shabalala thanked the Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga for his leadership as he sets a standard in everything that he does. MEC Shabalala presented him with a gift as a token of appreciation and souvenir to keep doing what he always does when it comes to policing matters in the province. In the program, the Provincial Commissioner also presented a gift which was handed over to MEC Shabalala to show gratitude for her commitment in working together with the Provincial leadership of the police in rooting out crime and corruption. This Prestigious event forms part of the SAPS plan to boost the morale of members so that they continuously serve the public in spite of the agonising reality, that of even paying the ultimate price. The Human Resource Management within the police, under the leadership of the Deputy National Commissioner: Human Resource Management. Lieutenant

General Bonang Mgwenya, who was also in attendance, has crafted a plan of motivating and encouraging members within the service to do more even under pressure or severe circumstances. The Prestige event is one of those.

Amongst the winners, was a category for the best Communication Officer of the year, which was awarded to Brigadier Leonard Hlathi. During the awarding of this category, Lieutenant General Zuma indicated that the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, has commended the work done

by Brigadier Hlathi in a meeting in Mpumalanga, pointing out that he has rendered the communication services professionally.

Other categories that were awarded included the following: Administration, Visible Policing, Detective, Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, Protection and Security Services, Crime Intelligence, Criminal Record, Crime Scene Management and Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.

Special Categories included:

Reservist of the year, Community Policing Forum of the year, Sports Woman of the year, Sports Man of the year, Woman of the year, Man of the year, Sports Person with Disability of the year and Best Cluster of the year Provincial Commissioners Special Awards included: Best Hygiene Specialist of the year, Best Police Protection Service, Best Executive Assistant of the year, Station of the year, TRT Team of the year, Cross Provincial Crime Intelligence, Bravery, Senior Manager of the year and Catch of the year.

Earlier that day, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma hosted the Launch of the 2019 Festive Season Operation, Amakhosi Precinct Policing, as well as the Introduction of MYSAPSAPP, under the theme Ziyojika izinto - Turning the tide against crime. This event was held at Emalahleni Civic Centre Hall in Witbank on Friday, 6 December.

Continued on pg 2

EMBA NEWS

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13 December 2019

eMbalenhle SAPS host 16 days of activism Every year many stakeholders host campaigns in fighting abuse against women and children. eMbalenhle SAPS hosted the 16 days of activism campaign at the Mandela Section Restoration of Life church on Friday, 6 December, to ensure that genderbased violence is a thing of the past.

Gender-based violence should be fought 365 days of the year not just 16. According to statistics, 25 women and children are abused and most of the cases are never reported to the police. The message on Friday was: “It begins with you by reporting violence that happens in your family and in the community.”

Amongst the dignitaries present were various traditional leaders, Mr Mabena, church leaders, Pastor S Mahlangu and Pastor Zwane from Mens Voice as Deafsa and Mr Khuzwayo, Department

of Safety, Security and Liaison.

The message from all the stakeholders was very simple: “Gender-based violence ends now. We need to work together with the police in eliminating this problem.”

The issues of alcohol and murders in the area were also raised as a problem within the community. Community members were encouraged to report all incidents to the police.

A great event and even better initiative from the eMbalenhle SAPS. It is now in the hands of the community to not only fight gender-based violence but all other crimes too with the police.

If you happen to be a victim or if you know of someone who is, you can blow the whistle by contacting the tollfree number and stay anonymous: 086 000 1011 or download the My SAPS app on your phone. – Sandile Mkhwanazi

A local taxi rank without shelter?

The taxi industry in South Africa contributes largely to the GDP of our economy with over 70% of people employed use taxis on a daily basis.

It is very frustrating to the community of Govan Mbeki Municipality that after so many years of complaints and grievances that the local taxi rank is still without proper infrastructure such as shelter and rest rooms. Complaints have been pouring in from people who use taxis. Commuters are always the victims of harsh weather conditions.

Even taxi drivers from Secunda’s local taxi rank complained about the poor

maintenance of the Secunda taxi rank.

“We work under extreme weather conditions and it’s worrying to us that we will have skin cancer sooner or later.”

In the past two weeks South Africa has experienced high temperatures of up to 52°C and places like Secunda and Kriel had temperatures of 39°C. With it raining since last Tuesday, the rain has affected everyone.

Now the question arises again: who has to build a local taxi rank in Secunda? Is it the local municipality or Vukanini Taxi Association (VUKTA)?

According to the by-laws governing

the local municipalities in South Africa they have to provide at least one local and long-distance taxi rank for the community.

Passengers spoke to The Bulletin on Saturday and said: “When you purchased groceries it is most likely to be damaged. And no one seem to ever address our issues as passengers. We appeal to the National Government or even Provincial Government to help in building a shelter at Secunda local taxi rank.”

Earlier in 2019 there was a march by a local taxi association to the

municipality after it was alleged that they had sold the taxi rank to a private individual. After negotiations, a lease agreement of 99 years was signed between the involved parties and everyone hoped that a taxi rank would be constructed. Months have passed but nothing has been done.

Drivers and passengers continue to suffer.

All parties involved were contacted for comments with no success.

- Sandile Mkhwanazi

Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner awards good work done by police members, safer festive operation launched Continued from pg 1 The event which was well attended by predominantly Emalahleni community and residents from various parts of Mpumalanga, was graced by the MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Gabisile Shabalala, representatives from the House of Traditional Leaders led by Inkhosi

Sandie Ngomane; the Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality, Linah Malatjie, Senior Management of SAPS from Head Office accompanied by some Provincial Commissioners, senior officials from various government departments, CPF’s and stakeholders in the fight against crime.

The MEC in her speech indicated that the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, has already launched the Safer Festive Season Operation on a national level. She highlighted that Mpumalanga province began rolling out activities in this regard and the purpose of the event was to intensify the operation thereof as well as showcasing the collaboration that exist amongst various law enforcement agencies who work towards a common goal of ensuring public safety in Mpumalanga.

The MEC also encouraged the community to work hand in glove with the law enforcement agencies rather than being a bystander. She further condemned the attack, killing of law enforcement agencies and called on the public to treat them as they would treat their siblings or parents because attacking these is like an attack to the state.

The Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General BM Zuma, pointed out during his speech that the Traditional Leaders (Amakhosi)

play a vital role in the prevention and fight against crime. General Zuma said: “There is a desirable calibre of people within the communities which are led by Traditional Leaders and such could be groomed as well as trained to become future Reservists or members of the Community Police Forums because of their determination to root out crime in their communities.”

He added: “The traditional leaders are part of the local authorities and they co-exist with the Municipality authorities as a result, they can assist a

lot especially in conflict resolution.”

General Zuma encouraged the public to download the MYSAPSAPP and use it to supply crucial information that can assist police to crack down cases that could not be solved because people could not come forward with information due to various reasons including fear. He concluded that by handing over the Safer Festive Season Operation plan to MEC Shabalala whilst the Amakhosi Precinct Policing concept was handed to Inkhosi Ngomane.

NEWS

13 December 2019

Crime snippets Prophet helps in putting murderer behind bars On Wednesday, 4 December, the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court sentenced Celemusa Ciniso Mabaso (30) of Thekwane to life imprisonment after he was convicted of killing his girlfriend last year.

The evidence presented in court revealed that the deceased and the accused were in a love relationship. On 22 November 2018, the deceased took a decision to end their relationship and that angered the accused .Later that day the accused went to the victim’s house. He stabbed her several times with a knife and slit her throat.

The victim died on the scene. Upon realising that the victim is no longer breathing, he went to the prophet with the knife he used to stab the victim to seek help and also for a cleansing ceremony. After receiving the news, the prophet decided to inform the police while ensuring that the accused is not suspicious of any reporting and was arrested. In court, advocate Derrick Mashego presented DNA evidence of the blood found on the knife the accused brought to the prophet and that of a prophet. The post mortem report showed that the victim died of stabbed wounds. The accused was found guilty as charged.

The accused was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder. The Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Adv. Matric Luphondo has welcomed the conviction and sentence in the matter as it illustrated the commitment of the NPA in the fight against gender-based violence in our society.

A man murdered in a robbery: a suspect sought A 53-year-old government employee was murdered on Saturday, 30 November, in the Sabie area.

Information at police disposal indicated that at about 22h50, the man who has now been identified as Murethi Ngale, was with his friends at a sports bar and he stepped outside after receiving a call. There was a sound of a gunshot outside and Ngale came back running but collapsed on the floor. Reports indicated that another man who was in possession of a firearm followed him and searched him. It is alleged that this unidentified man took the car keys from the victim and fled the scene using the victim’s Silver Amarok bakkie which had since been recovered between Sabie and Graskop. The police and the emergency personnel were summoned to the scene where unfortunately Ngale was certified dead.

The preliminary investigation also suggested that the deceased is a government employee attached to the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.

Police have since opened a case of murder and are adamant that the suspect(s) must be brought to book.

Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma, the Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, has strongly condemned this heartless incident and requested that the community members that have vital information regarding the suspect(s), should immediately contact the police. The public can provide information to Detective Captain Thomas Motau on 0824489480 /

10111 can also be called or call 08600 10111.

Christian Resistance Movement suspects appear in court

Johannes Knoesen (60), Riana Heyman (54) and the two brothers, Eric Abrams (55) and Errol Abrams (49), appeared briefly at the Middelburg Magistrate Court on Monday, 2 December, on charges of contravening the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorism and Related Activities (POCDATARA) Act as well harbouring a wanted suspect in terms of the same Act. The four suspects and members of the National Christian Resistance Movement (NCRM) also known as the ‘Crusaders’ activities were remanded in custody pending their next appearance on 21 January 2020 at the same court. Their arrest follows investigations by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation and Crime Intelligence. Various firearms and 5300 ammunition of different calibres, documents and other items were confiscated by the Criminal Record Centre (CRC) for further probing. Investigations are still continuing.

Two suspects arrested for illegal possession of elephant tusks and firearms Johan Cox (41) and Hendrick Bernardus Elvis (32) appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrate Court on Thursday, 5 December, for illegal possession of elephant tusks and firearms in Sunriseview, Nelspruit.

The two were arrested by members of the Hawks’ Wildlife Trafficking unit in conjunction with members from Nelspruit SAPS Crime Intelligence on Wednesday, 4 December, after information was received of two individuals who were allegedly in possession of elephant tusks. The joint team immediately acted on the information and conducted a search a seizure operation at the suspects premises which resulted in the seizure of six elephant tusks and five illegal

firearms that were concealed inside a trailer. Investigations are underway to determine the origin of the tusks and the confiscated firearms and if they were used in the commission of any crime.

A woman is expected to appear in court for opening a false case with police A 32-year-old woman was expected to appear before the Baberton Magistrate’s Court on 9 December after she was arrested on Saturday, 7 December, in Lowscreek for falsely opening a case with police. According to police information, the woman reported a case of robbery at Lowscreek SAPS and the case was duly opened as well as registered at the station. The woman alleged at the time of reporting that she is employed as an administration clerk at Sabie Sipsop, Komatiland. She added that she was robbed of her company’s laptop as well as cash. As with other cases, the police immediately begun with their investigation and used all available resources at their disposal to crack the case. Robbery is regarded to be one of the serious contact crimes due to the violent nature in which it occurs. Preliminary investigations revealed that the allegations of robbery by the woman were fabricated and it is further believed that she provided false names to police. A report has surfaced further that the woman earlier impersonated herself as a key witness who is placed under witness protection services and also claimed to be a legal expert in a high-profile case so that she could enjoy accommodation benefits at a Home-Based Care establishment. It has also come to light that the woman has absconded a court appearance in another case of found in possession of house breaking implements. The police traced, arrested and charged the woman with perjury. Police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges. Meanwhile, the Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma, has since condemned the false reporting of

3 the robbery case by the woman. “Every case reported to police is taken very seriously and necessary resources are channelled to resolve such a case, especially a case such as this one that has been reported by a woman.

The resources could have been taken somewhere else to help those who really needed them most. We need to set an example with this one and we hope that a lesson will be learned from this,” said General Zuma.

Bus and articulated truck head on collision leaves two dead Two people were killed when a bus and an articulated truck collided head on on Monday morning, 9 December around 06h00 on the R573 Road known as Moloto Road near KwaMhlanga. The two, one from the bus and another person from the truck, died on their way to the hospital. 12 people sustained serious injuries while six more people escaped with minor injuries. The injured were stabilised on the scene before being rushed to nearby hospitals. The cause of the collision is still not known at this stage however, the investigation by the police is underway. Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Ms. Gabisile Shabalala is sending condolences to the bereaved families and she has also wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.

She is calling on motorists to be cautious when using the roads, especially during wet weather conditions. She added that with increased vigilance on the part of motorists and other road users, crashes will be reduced during this holiday season and beyond.

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NEWS

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Encee van Huyssteen 082 554 7589 encee@thebulletin.co.za admin@thebulletin.co.za Ané Prinsloo 082 576 8279 ane@thebulletin.co.za news@thebulletin.co.za Sandile Mkhwanazi 072 182 0142 eMbalenhle News

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Distribution: We pride ourselves in delivering a Bulletin to businesses in Secunda, Trichardt, Evander, Bethal and Kriel.

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13 December 2019

Ds Marius Britz Toe tref kerstyd ons mos ook toe hier op die Weskus. Dit besef ek toe ek in die Mall in ‘n bekende winkel instap en ‘n kort, vet elektriese kersvader my welkom heet met sy skuifeldansie. Die ene liggies en kekkellaggies, sy flitsende neus so rooi soos sy rendier Rudolf s’n. En skielik spoel die ou, ou gevoel van kersfees deur my. Kersfeeste van jou lewe. Is dit nog dieselfde, wonder jy. En hoe gaan dit vanjaar wees?

Miskien was dit die hartseerste Kersfees wat ek ooit beleef het.

Daardie een. My brein trek ‘n deur oop van een van die kamers in my kop waar ek lanklaas ingegaan het. Doelbewus nie wou ingaan nie. En terwyl Stille Nag in die winkel speel, onthou ek weer. Sy naam was Johan.

Arm seuntjie uit ‘n arm gesin. Op laerskool al was hy die een wat altyd alleen was, eenkant gesit het. Niemand wou met hom speel, of hom in hulle span gehad het nie. Eendag, toe ek speeltyd my kosblik oopmaak met my grondboontjiebottertoebroodjies, was hy skielik langs my. “Kan ek asseblief een kry, ek is so honger,” het hy gesê. En so het ek op ‘n manier sy beste vriend geword.

So gaan toer ons in standerd vier Natal toe. Hy wou bitter graag saam, want hy het nog nooit die see gesien nie. Maar sestien rand, wat die toer gekos het, was net te veel vir sy pa. Hy begin toe om in mense se tuine te werk, karre te was, middag na middag, totdat hy sy toer kon betaal. Met groot opgewondenheid het hy in die bus met sy kartontassie gesit en kyk wanneer kom die see.

Maar toe ons by Margate aankom, wou niemand gehad het hy moes saam met hulle in die kamer slaap nie. “Jy stink, jy was nooit nie”, het die kinders gesê, met monde vol sjokolade en biltong wat in oorvloed saamgegee is van die huis af. En so kry hy skielik ‘n bynaam, Sappi. Die naam van die papierfabriek in Springs wat soms

so vreeslik gestink het as die wind verkeerd waai. En daardie vakansie het die wind vir Johan verkeerd gewaai, want op die ou einde moes hy op die vloer in die kombuis slaap, want daar was nie vir hom ander plek nie, en hy was te bang om vir Meneer te sê. Die eenkantseuntjie. Al wat sy oë laat blink het, was die see. Een keer op hoërskool, toe hy die gespot en verniel nie meer kon vat nie, het hy een van die belhamels uitgedaag vir ‘n vuisgeveg in die parkie. Natuurlik was dit groot nuus! Sappi gaan met Carl baklei. (Wat, terloops, later op die grens gesterf het). ‘n Groot skare kinders het gekyk hoe Sappi die pak slae van sy lewe kry. Sappi se afsondering was verseël daarna.

Sy kersie het uitgewaai.

Toe skryf ons matriek, en ons word agttien jaar oud. Die toekoms lê en wag vir ons almal. Verder studeer was vir Sappi nie ‘n opsie nie, hy moes weermag toe. Vir die eerste keer in sy lewe nooi hy ‘n vriend uit na sy verjaarsdagpartytjie toe, so paar dae voor kersfees. Vir my. Daar was koek en tert en groen koeldrank en lekkers. En as jy ‘n homp deurgewerk het, skep sy ma nog ‘n gul porsie op jou bord. En sy pa sê: “eet, voor die oorlog kom!” En ons het geëet en gepraat oor alles wat wag. Maar die blink wat die see in sy oë gebring het, was daardie aand nie daar nie. Laataand op sy agttiende verjaarsdag, met vuil glase en vuil koekbordjies nog in die wasbak, hang Sappi homself in die motorhuis op. Toe is ook dit verby. Daardie kersdiens, ‘n paar dae daarna, het ek in die kerk gesit, ‘n puisierige seun met donsbaard, en gehuil toe Stille Nag gesing word.

Nie lekker goed om te onthou as jy in die hysbak ry, tussen klomp mense met hulle vol trollies nie. ‘n Gedig spring op in jou kop: jou kamer ruik na salf boererate samboksalf vir spiere lennons se druppels pille vir die en daai jy omring jouself met perskoppe wat soos jy die dood probeer vermy jy bekyk jouself in die mall se hysbak se spieël jy het oud geword jou oë is moeg jou skouers hang

jy sê vir jouself: my magtig ek is alles wat ek eens gesê het ek nooit gaan word nie.

En ek weet skielik wat ek hierdie kersfees gaan doen. Ek gaan baie kersmusiek speel op die radiostasie waar ek ‘n omroeper is. Nie musiek oor jingleklokkies en sleë nie, maar musiek oor die Kind van Betlehem. Vir al die Sappi’s in die wêreld gaan ek kersmusiek speel. Oor die Een vir wie daar nie plek was in die herberg toe hy gebore is nie.

Die Een wat in ‘n krip in ‘n stal

moes slaap. Die Een wat gespot en gespoeg is. Die Een wie se dissipel Hom verloën het vir dertig silwerstukke. En die res van sy dissipels weggehardloop het toe Sy swartste uur aangebreek het. Een het selfs drie keer in een nag ontken dat hy Hom ken.

Die Een wat so eensaam was dat Hy aan die kruis uitgeroep het: Eli Eli lèma sabagtani. Elkeen wat eensaamheid en verwerping ken, moet in hierdie kerstyd Sy woorde hoor, amper soos ‘n sagte fluistering in die wind: Ek het jou op jou naam geroep, jy is Myne.

En ek gaan aan Johan dink.

Tannie Poppie se lamskenkel met kwepers Sondag-lamskenkel met kwepers op twee maniere In hierdie gereg word kwepers behoorlik gevier.

Nie net word kwepers saam met die skenkels tot murgsag geprut nie; daar word ook botter-gesoteerde kweperskywe saam met dit bedien. Ek het ook patats in die oond gesit, maar dis heeltemal jou keuse. 4 - 6 ruim porsies Vir kweper-skenkels • 30 ml olyfolie (ek gebruik hiervoor Olive Pride se gemengde olyf- en saadolie) • 2 groot uie, in agstes gesny • 3 groot kwepers, geskil en in kwarte of agstes gesny • 4 knoffelhuisies, fyngekap of gemaal • 3 lourierblare • 250 ml lam, groente of hoenderaftreksel • 30 ml fyn appelkooskonfyt • 10-15 ml paprika (gebruik 15 ml as jy baie goeie paprika het, anders minder) • 15 ml rooiwynasyn • 15 ml fyn koljander

• 15 ml fyn komyn • Sout en peper Kwepers word halfpad deur die gaarmaak by die skenkels gesit.

Metode: • Verhit oond na 150C. • Geur die skenkels met sout en peper. Verhit die olie in ‘n oondvaste dikboomkasserol-bak (bak met ‘n deksel) en verbruin die skenkels aan alle kante. Werk in twee sarsies om te verseker dat dit mooi verbruin en nie begin stoom nie. (Pak dit in twee lae opmekaar indien nodig).

• Meng die volgende saam in ‘n bakkie: aftreksel, asyn, konfyt, paprika, koljander, komyn en knoffel; giet dit oor die skenkels.

Pak die uie en lourierblare om die skenkels, sit die deksel op en bak in die oond vir 90 minute. Pak nou die kweperskywe rondom die skenkels, bedek weer en bak ‘n verdere 90 minute.

COPYRIGHT All rights of reproduction of all reports, photographs, drawings and other materials are hereby expressively reserved in terms of section 12 (7) of the Copyright Act No 96 of 1978 and any amendments thereof.

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Die boek word deur Human & Rousseau uitgegee

13 December 2019

SPORT NEWS

5

Fenriswulf - the journey begins now “Now we stand against all might No man nor beast will stand and fight Against a thousand beating hearts Tonight we slay all those who have opposed…”

Taken from the song: Wulves of Odin - Fenriswulf Johan’s love for the metal genre started in primary school. His best friend, Wikus, could not have had a more opposite taste in music; rave music. Johan introduced him to his favourite and most influential band: Amon Amarth. It was love at first listen!

Johan and Wikus started the band around the end of 2013 but before the band was started, the only instruments they played was Guitar Hero. One weekend the two spoke and decided enough is enough and something has to be done about their Guitar Hero skills. Their birthdays are a month apart and they asked their parents if they could have a guitar and a drumkit.

“Wikus was always tapping out beats on tables. He was naturally inclined to drumming,” Johan explained.

After going through many names for the band and realising most of them have already been taken, Johan came up with the name Fenriswulf. The name was inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology. He wanted a name that would make an impact. And it has!

“Fenrir (“He Who Dwells in the Marshes”) is the most infamous of the many wolves in Norse mythology.

His importance for the pre-Christian Scandinavians is demonstrated by his being depicted on numerous surviving runestones, not to mention his ubiquity in Old Norse literary sources.

He’s the son of the god Loki and the giantess Angrboda, which makes him the brother of the serpent Jormungand and the underworld goddess Hel.” https://norse-mythology.org/ gods-and-creatures/giants/fenrir/ Renaldo, rhythm guitarist, joined the band first and was also the first member to be thrown out of the band.

He was a hard rock musician and didn’t want to adapt to a new genre.

A husband and wife joined the band after that but couldn’t commit. Johan messaged Renaldo and asked if he was still looking for a band. Renaldo was given another chance and auditioned with the song Guardians of Asgard

by Amon Amarth. “After being kicked out of the band, I realised that I made a mistake by being so pig headed. I researched the different metal genres and fell in love with it. The chemistry the guitars have with each other is amazing and after returning to the band, Johan and I had that chemistry when playing together,” said Renaldo.

Henco, the band’s vocalist, auditioned and was told thank you but no. A few months later Henco asked if he could have another audition. This time he nailed it. “I watched a cartoon – Metalocalypse and the glory of Dethklok inspired me to take a chance and audition for the band again,” explained Henco. This all happened in 2014 and 2015 Arries, the bassist, fell into the band by accident. He went with his friend to the audition but his friend didn’t like playing bass. Arries asked if he can have a go at it and rocked the audition.

Initially everyone thought he was obnoxious. With persistence, he grew on everybody. “We play brutal melodic death metal. It is a very aggressive, immediate genre of metal but the melodic element of the music is still extremely important,” said Arries as he

FLTR: Johan du Toit, lead guitarist, Arries Naude, bass, Renaldo Cilliers, rhythm guitarist and Henco Chamberlain, vocalist.

Left: Wikus Kleynhans, drummer.

laughed thinking back at his audition.

Fenriswulf is one of the first and only Viking inspired metal bands in South Africa that have made a name for themselves. They played their first show in May 2018 at Rumours in Randburg. They pulled the crowd in with their melodic sound.

The band was also nominated for three SAMMA (South African Metal Music Awards): Best New Comer, Best Metal EP and Best Extreme Metal Act. Unfortunately, they did not win anything on the evening but they are staying positive for next year.

A year later they recorded their debut album: Breaking the Chains, with eleven original songs written and composed by the band. The lyrics are potent and speak to the soul.

The band would like to thank their sponsors; Skye from Lost Art Tattoos and Charné from Scissor Hands Salon.

The band has a busy 2020 ahead of them and they are extremely excited to release their debut album soon!

- Ané Prinsloo

NEWS

6

What is Christmas and When Did it Start Christmas is the annual Christian festival celebrating Christ’s birth, held on December 25 in the Western Church.

The traditional date of December 25 goes back as far as A.D. 273.

Two pagan festivals honouring the sun were also celebrated on that day and it is possible that December 25 was chosen to counteract the influence of paganism.

To this day some people feel uncomfortable with Christmas because they think it is somehow tainted by the pagan festivals held on that day.

But Christians have long believed that the gospel not only transcends culture, it also transforms it.

In A.D. 320 one theologian answered this criticism by noting, “We hold this day holy, not like the pagans because of the birth of the sun, but because of him who made it.”

13 December 2019

6 Ways to Make Christmas about Jesus 1. Give a gift to Jesus.

2. Like Christ, give to those who can‛t repay you.

3. Pause to sense the darkness outside at night and then thank God for sending the light.

4. Read the Scriptures to your family.

5. Start some traditions that point to Christ.

6. Enjoy this wonderful time of the year, don‛t lose the season for the rush.

The Origin of the Christmas Tree Among the many accounts claiming to explain the origin of the Christmas tree, the most popular are from Germany — making it the likeliest place of origin.

The stories span from the 8th to the 16th century. All

three have some element of historical fact and they may even loosely connect from one to another.

1. The first story is about St. Boniface. In the 8th century, he was a missionary to some of

the remotest tribes of Germany. He is probably best known for what is called the “Felling of Thor‛s Oak.” It is said that upon entering a town in northern Hesse (Hessia), Boniface learned that the people worshiped the god Thor who they believed resided in a great oak tree among them. Boniface determined that if he wanted to earn an audience with the people, he would have to confront Thor. He announced before the people that he was going to cut down the oak and he openly challenged Thor to strike him down.

Miraculously, as Boniface began to chop the oak, a mighty wind blew and hurled the tree to the ground.

Tradition holds that a fir tree was growing in the roots of the oak and Boniface claimed the tree as a symbol of Christ. Needless to say, the people readily accepted Boniface‛s message, and the tree eventually came to be associated with the birth of Christ and a celebration of the day when the mighty God (who could hurl a gigantic oak to the ground) chose to humbly enter the world as a babe.

2. Another possible source of the Christmas tree (and probably the most likely) comes from medieval religious plays in Germany. Among the most popular of these plays was the “Paradise” play. It started with the creation of man, acted out the first sin and showed Adam and Eve being expelled from Paradise (the Garden of Eden). It closed with the promise of a coming Savior, which made the play a particular favorite during the Christmas season. In the play, the Garden of Eden was most often represented by a fir tree hung with apples and surrounded by candles.

SPORT NEWS

13 December 2019

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3 Christmas Carols that Tell the True Christmas Story became an anthem in celebration of the “Noel” derives from the Latin verb “nasci,” day of His bir�h. Though the angels sang in celebration of His bir�h first, we get to to be bor�, and event�ally t�ickled share in that joy of His coming by singing down into the French reference to the along today.

Christ�as holiday. Defined, it literally means, “a Christ�as carol” (Mer�iam "O Come, O Come, Webster).

Emmanuel" The ver� world “Noel” is sy�ony�ous with Historically an Advent song, “O Come, Christ�as.

O Come, Emmanuel” ex�des the angst It’s quite possible that the t�ne of this of a people waiting for their Savior. With song has been played since the 1200s. references to the Rod of Jesse and the Key Davies Gilber� added the ly�ics in the of David, it envelopes the Old Testament 1800s, and it was published in 1823. The prophecies of Jesus Christ, which brings song retells the stor� from Luke 2 of the the New Testament into an even brighter angels telling the shepherds in the field light. of the Savior being bor�, and the wise The first verse of the song speaks of the men following that same star to bring Son of God appearing. When we sing this Him giſts. Embracing Noel sends us classic Christ�as carol, we are lauding t�aveling back to an ancient era, where the Lord over stanzas of Script�re that our timeless Savior was bor�. The word took over 800 years to be f�lfilled. Isaiah used to describe the day of His bir�h

"The First Noel"

Christmas Traditions across the World

N�way: ‘Gledelig Jul!’ Norway is the birthplace of the Yule log. The ancient Norse used the Yule log in their celebration of the return of the sun at winter solstice. “Yule” came from the Norse word hweol, meaning wheel. The Norse believed that the sun was a great wheel of fire that rolled towards and then away from the

earth. Ever wonder why the family fireplace is such a central part of the typical Christmas scene?

This tradition dates back to the Norse Yule log. It is probably also responsible for the popularity of log-shaped cheese, cakes and desserts during the holidays.

England: ‘Merry Christmas!’

Christmas cards can be traced back to England. An Englishman named John Calcott Horsley helped to popularize the tradition of sending Christmas greeting cards when he began producing small cards featuring festive scenes and a pre-written holiday greeting in the late 1830s. Newly efficient post offices in England and the United States made the cards nearly overnight sensations.

At about the same time, similar cards were being made by R.H. Pease, the first American card maker, in Albany, New York, and Louis Prang, a German who immigrated to America in 1850.

spoke of the Messiah’s bir�h around 740680 BC: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sig�: The virgin will conceive and give bir�h to a son, and will call him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). Cent�ries later, Matthew recorded these words: “The virgin will conceive and give bir�h to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”; Matthew 1:23).

"Joy to the World"

Isaac Watts penned the ly�ics to “Joy to the World,” but God Himself ordained the Script�re that is referenced throughout its stanzas. Psalm 98, Psalm 96:11-12 and Genesis 3:17-18 are all embraced in the beautif�l t��th of what Christ�as is really about. Since 1719, we’ve had a melody to weave around the embrace of these promises. They are

timeless and without boundar�.

“And so, let the heavens resound in gladness! Let joy be the ear�h’s rhy�hm as the sea and all its creat�res roar. Let the fields g�ow in t�iumph, a g�and jubilee for all that live there. Let all the t�ees of the forest dig in and reach high with songs of joy before the Eter�al” (Psalm 96:11-12).

“Joy to the World” is a repetition of God’s promises; ones that we need to repeat to ourselves far beyond the Christ�as season. The ver� definition of the word, “joy,” is “a source or cause of delight” (Mer�iam-Webster). “He reig�s with t��th and g�ace.” He is righteous, He has come, and sits at the right hand of the Father with authorit�.

Sources: htt�s://www.histor�.com/topics/ christ�as htt�s://www.crosswalk.com/special-coverage/ christ�as-and-advent/what-is-christ�asunderstanding-the-histor�-and-origin.ht�l

Finland: ‘Hyvää Joulua!’

Many Finns visit the sauna on Christmas Eve. Families gather and listen to the national “Peace of Christmas” radio broadcast. It is customary to visit the gravesites of departed family members.

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SERVICES

13 December 2019

Sasol Highveld Photography Club Yearend Awards

TO ADVERTISE CALL: 017 631 1903 017 631 1845 ANNALIE 082 906 0546

James Harris hands Pierre Jordaan (Left) his trophy Various photgraphers were awarded at the Sasol Higveld Photography Club Yearend Function.

All the photographers submitted excellent photographs during the year and the competition was tough.

There were awards for the various categories and also the Junior and Senior Photographer of the year.

Photographers usually start as a junior at the club and progress as their photography improves.

It is not a competition but rather a process of improvement.

Points are awarded for each photograph and that would relate to

Pierre Jordaan and Lorraine Botha (Left)

Bronze, Silver, Gold and Certificate of Merit (COM). COM’s are usually of an exceptional standard and therefore rewarded with the COM. The winners in the various categories were: Nature, Junior - Barbara Mitton and Senior - Pierre Jordaan.

Nature-Birds only, Junior - Johan Viljoen and Senior - Danie Smit.

Pictorial, Junior - Lorraine Botha and Senior - James Harris.

Monochrome, Junior - Yolandie Geyser and Senior - Sussa Pelser.

Photojournalism, Junior - Lorraine Botha and Senior - Sussa Pelser.

Scapes, Junior - Gerrit Myburgh and Senior - Danie Smit.

Set Subject, Junior - Johan Viljoen and Senior - Pierre Jordaan The Junior Photographer of the year is Lorraine Botha and the Senior Photographer of the year is Pierre Jordaan.

The Bulletin congratulates all the photographers with their achievements.

Keep following The Bulletin to stay informed with the club’s activities.

Contact Pierre Jordaan on 0824650248 should you wish to join the club or need more information.

Keep those shutters clicking!

CF Els Dance Studios ends year on Rythmic Note The CF Els Dance Studios yearend function turned out to be quite spectacular.

Some of the students showed their paces and it was clear that they have been well trained. They were in sync and enjoyed performing their dances.

The surprise for the evening was the International Acclaimed Belly Dancer from Mexico, Amar Lammar.

She dazzled the audience with her moves and rhythmic dances.

CF Els Dance Studios ends the year in three different towns: Secunda, Standerton and Ermelo. Each function ends the year on a high note and there is always something interesting for the parents and public.

SANBS bleeds again!

Asanda Msileni, Head of Donor Relations (zone) waiting for his very first donation.

Bethal CPF challenged the residents of Bethal to donate 140 units on Saturday, 7 December.

They managed to accumelate 124 units.

It will make a huge difference during the holiday season.

Find us on Facebook - The Bulletin -

SPORT SPORT/SCHOOL

13 December 2019

STEP UP TO A START UP: WINNERS!

TP Stratten students exstatic after receiving reports

9

Merry Christmas!

FLTR: Nonjabulo Zikhali, Me. Estée Odendaal, Nolwazi Sindane en Martin Sweet From 2 - 4 December two learners from Hoërskool Secunda took part in the STEP UP TO A START UP National Entrepreneurs competition in Johannesburg. Out of 768 teams that participated, Hoërskool Secunda’s team consisting of Nonjabulo Zikhali and Nolwazi Sindane WON FIRST PRIZE! They called themselves the Virtual Invaders. They were tasked with presenting a business plan focusing on how technology can help the community. Their business plan was called “Safe Space” which is an App focusing on mental health issues.

The learners of TP Stratten are exuberant of joy after receiving their reports. They didn’t mind the rain and are all looking forward to the challenges of 2020.

LTR - Colelyn Schambreel Grd 6, Siyanda Mkhonza Grd 7, Sindy Mlotswa Grd 6, Katleho Jonas Grd 7 and Prudence Nyawuza Grd 6.

TP Stratten groet ou vriende

Laerskool Secunda spog met Eisteddfod resultate Laerskool Secunda se wenners het tydens die 2019 Sasol Hoëveldrif Eisteddfod uitstekend gevaar en altesaam 55 kategoriewenners opgelewer. Mika Janse van Rensburg (Victrix Artium), Gustav Botha (Junior Victor Artium) en Carli Venter (Belowendste deelnemer)

het met toptoekennings weggestap. Die wenners het hul goed van hul taak gekwyt (sien alle kategoriewenners aangeheg saam met hul fotos). Baie geluk aan al die personeel, ouers en leerders wat betrokke was by diè jaar se Eisteddfod. Laerskool Secunda is voorwaar trots op elkeen van julle!

Dit is met hartseer dat die hoof, mnr. Mossie Ourique en sy personeel op 5 Desember 2019 afskeid geneem het van kollegas wat ná baie jare by die skool, ‘n nuwe fase in hul lewe gaan begin. 3 kollegas tree af en gaan met pensioen.

LNR voor: Me Corrie Crause, onderwyseres (pensioen: gaan in Gordonsbaai woon na 23 jaar by TP Stratten), me Selina Tshoba, assistent, (pensioen na 35 jaar by TP Stratten), mnr Thomas Mtsweni, assistent (pensioen na 36 jaar by TP Stratten) LNR agter: Mnr Mossie Ourique, skoolhoof, me Yolandi Badenhorst, onderwyseres (bedank om eie besigheid te begin), me Anjonette Erasmus, onderwyseres (skuif na Evander Hoër), mnr Johan Labuschagne, onderwysstudent (skuif na Laerskool Leandra).

Links: Kategoriewenners: Kuns Alexander Kok, Anicka Hesselman, Anina Joubert, Licha Scheepers, Manlie Orsmond, Mika Janse van Rensburg en Lia Kritzinger.

Jabulela Ukhisimusi

PROPERTIES EIENDOMME TO ADVERTISE CALL 017 631 1903 • 017 631 1845

SPORT/SCHOOL

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Welcome to Walker Park Golf Club Francois

Francois Klopper was recently appointed as the new Walker Park Golf Course manager after the departure of the beloved M-J van Rensburg, now Russell.

Francois isn’t new to the area. He grew up in Secunda and after school moved to Pretoria to study Golf Directorship and Club Management. His love for golf started in high school when he

started playing with his father.

His CV brags with clubs like Graceland, Dainfern Country Club, Centurion Golf Club and Woodhill.

“Walker Park is a new challenge for me and I cannot wait to see what the future holds,” said Francois.

Welcome back Francois and may you be blessed in your new position.

– Ané Prinsloo

13 December 2019

Laerskool Krielpark students outshine the rest

Baie geluk aan Jandro Venter en Marizette Malan wat gekies is as ons sportseun en dogter vir 2019.

Congratulations to Clintin Botha from Kriel Mikomi Karate Dojo who received his blue belt.

Laerskool Secunda spog met Eisteddfod resultate

Kategoriewenners: Afrikaans Alandri Bezuidenhout, Carli Claassen, Gabriella Stemmet, Lia Kritzinger, Gustav Botha, Janco van Zyl, Jordan Jacobs, Kaylee Harrison Uys, Kaylin Harmse, Kaysey Harrison, Leilani Kruger, Lezaan Burger, Clarice Janse van Rensburg, Cayleigh Uys, Michael Stemmet, Mika Janse van Rensburg, Mieke Jones, Mielan Prinsloo, Zander Ferreira, Marhulnè Bezuidenhout, Chezelle Brand, De Wet du Plessis, Dehandrè G. Grobler, Ederich Bezuidenhout en Elizma van der Westhuizen.

Kategoriewenners: Dans Mielan Prinsloo, Michaela Hobkirk, Melè Joubert, Rulaine van der Merwe, Linnè Grobler, Nianel Lamb en Mia de Nobrega.

Kategoriewenners: Engels Alandri Bezuidenhout, Carli Claassen, Carli Venter, Carmen Robolo, Kaylee Harrison Uys, Michael Stemmet, Mielan Prinsloo, Chezelle Brand, Jordan Jacobs, Jason Brits, Siyanda Sesweke, Simone Burger, Lisa Brand, Gustav Botha en Gabriella Stemmet.

Kategoriewenners: Instrumentaal Karin Meister, Mika Janse van Rensburg, Elzeri Niewoudt, Carli Venter en Mienke Fourie.

Kategoriewenner: SPO Anicka Hesselman

Mrs Lucas raised funds to buy tablets for her class, the winner of the raffle had the privilege to cut her hair in front of all the students. And the lucky winner was....... Leanne Els Hatting!

Kategoriewenners: Skryfkuns Anina Joubert, Jordan Jacobs en Gustav Botha.

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13 December 2019

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Superheroes Ride With Purpose The Ride with Purpose united cyclists to break the cycle of poverty and inequality Although the 606 km Ride for MRP Foundation (Dec 1-2, 2019) demanded intense mental and physical energy from it’s 74 participants, this year’s Ride with purpose was also filled with plenty of hero-moments.

The tenth edition of the two-day stage ride from Secunda to Durban gathered together cyclists from local businesses, scholars, business executives and accomplished athletes including triathlete Mhlengi Gwala and mountain biker, Mboneni Ngcobo, as well as Rugby Legends Joel Stransky, Jeremy Thompson, Wayne Fyvie and Warren Brosnihan to raise funds and awareness for the MRP Foundation.

In addition to her fervent fundraising efforts (R19,000 thus far), Zisandele Mkhize, one of the 14 women who took part in the event, was awarded the ‘ABSA Rider of the Day’ and R25,000 towards her fundraising efforts after displaying an impressive amount of perseverance on Day 1 of the Ride. Despite dislocating her toe she pushed through the pain to complete the second stage.

“Yesterday was a rough day but there is something about riding home and knowing your surroundings that gives you a second wind. We all share one

thing, the human condition. I know what it’s like not to have food in your stomach, I’ve been there and I understand that it’s something that

part of Griffin’s Hill Mountain Pass, near Mooi River, a punishing 3,76 km climb with a 244m elevation.

Unathi is part of the KZN Cycling

needs to change. This event and the Foundation is close to my heart, especially when you actually see a difference being made,” said Zisandele.

This year’s ‘King of the Hill’ went to the talented Unathi Nxumalo, a seventeen-year-old rider from Thandaza High School in Hammarsdale. The first-time cyclist was the first person to reach the top of the infamous Warthog Hill,

Development Team and was sponsored to ride the event by Beaver Creek. He was elated with his Day 1 ‘win’, saying, “I feel happy because I know what poverty is like and I’m happy to be riding with the purpose of helping children who are going through poverty.”

One of this year’s most heartfelt moments was when past Dusi2C winner, Mboneni Ngcobo, received a Giant Contend bicycle from first-time

cyclist, Wim Hollander.

Wim rode in honour of Wim’s late stepfather, Paul Els, who rode the event last year but tragically lost his life in a cycling accident soon after the 2018 Ride. Paul raised a phenomenal R118,000 for the Ride, the second highest among the peloton, and received the Giant Contend bicycle for his fundraising events.

Third-time rider, Mboneni, expressed his gratitude for the donated bike saying: “I am very excited as this is the first time I will have my own bike especially for the road. This Ride is always challenging. If you don’t prepare it will hurt you.”

Karen Wells, Head of MRP Foundation, thanked the cyclists and partners for their commitment to raising funds and awareness for the MRP Foundation saying, “It’s thanks to inspiring people like yourselves that MRP Foundation can continue to impact young South Africans through our education and skills development programmes.”

A big thank you to our partners including Absa, CMH Nissan Durban, SPAR, Maxed, Expand-a-Sign, City Logistics, Zapper, Trader Plus, Corruseal, KTM, Westville Cycle Club, Giant, Cyclesphere, SA Rugby Legends and Hirt and Carter all contribute towards the success of the annual event.

Yeye supports local lad Xolane Xolane “Khama” Savangauna played brilliant football in the VW Junior Masters National Tournament according to his fans and the staff from the Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge.

Supersport United Captain, Dean Furman, was also very interested in and excited about the Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge players. The Junior Masters Tournament was played in

Left: Jacob Mtakwende, Tshidiso Letsalo – Kaizer Chiefs development coach, Renelo “YEYE” Letsoalanyane – Highland Park Middlefield, Thato Msimango – Kaizer Chiefs Assistant Development Coach and Xolane “Khama” Savanguana in front.

Johannesburg at the Bidvest Stadium on Saturday.

“Lake Umuzi Soccer Challenge will promote more development players to the bigger teams,” said Jacob

Mtakwende. He added: “We would also like to thank all the businesses that support us from eMbalenhle and Secunda. Your support means a lot to us.”

13 DECEMBER

2019

Bulletin

Pandas Inaugural Sports Festival Panda’s Cue Sport hosted the inaugural Sports Festival 2019.

With four different sports, Pandas was packed with athletes and spectators. Hendry Erasmus (co-owner) said that he and his partners, Jon Jon Vermeulen and Timothy Vermeulen, were delighted to see how the Pool club has turned into a sports club.

Pandas NEW Darts and Snooker area consists of 16 Dart Boards and 2 Snooker tables. This was the opening of the newly revamped dart facility. Results from the weekend Sport Festival: Pandas 501 Men Dart Championships 1st Leslie Naidoo 2nd Arthur Oberholzer 3rd Frank Jonker Pandas 501 Women Dart Championships 1st Anna-Marie Lezar 2nd Karren Anthony 3rd Anith Ince Pandas Open Left Arm-Wrestling Championships 1st Ludwig Schettler 2nd Rubin Du Toit 3rd Jaco Knoetze Pandas Open Right Arm-Wrestling Championships 1st Rubin Du Toit 2nd Ludwig Schnettler 3rd Ryno Oosthuizen Pandas Head to Head Poker Championships 1st Adam Nel 2nd Tyron Freer 3rd Hendry Erasmus Panda’s OPEN Pool Championships 1st Jacobus Le Roux 2nd Jackson Mashetsi 3rd Hendry Erasmus Hendry Erasmus said: “We would like to thank Rees (Darts), Ryno (Arm-Wrestling) and Davey (poker) for running the respective leagues in 2019.” This annual event would take place on 4 - 6 December 2020.

Frank, Anith, Anna-Marie, Arthur, Leslie, Karren

Jackson, Jacobus, Hendry

Ludwig vs Ryno