Welcome to today’s edition of News Talk! We bring you the latest updates from Potchefstroom – from the buzzing energy of first-year university students to important community news and upcoming events. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in our town! First-Year Students Kick Off Their University Journey with Energy and Excitement Excitement filled the air as first-year students arrived for the start of their university experience. Despite cloudy skies and occasional rain, nothing could dampen their enthusiasm. Orientation week provides a vital introduction to campus life, offering new students a chance to explore their academic environment, make friends, and engage in social activities. Here’s to an exciting and successful journey ahead! Stage 3 Loadshedding After 10-Month Break After enjoying 10 months of uninterrupted electricity, Potchefstroom residents faced Stage 3 loadshedding last weekend, following an urgent warning from Eskom. The power utility cited multiple unexpected breakdowns as the reason for the increased risk. As repairs continue, residents are urged to stay prepared for potential further power interruptions. Community Protest Update: Memorandum Handed Over, Awaiting Response On February 4, 2025, the Promosa community staged a peaceful protest against alleged unfair hiring practices in appointing a new school principal at Promosa Primary School. Protesters handed over a memorandum to the MEC for Education, demanding action within seven days. The protest remained well-organized and peaceful, with community members satisfied that their concerns were officially recognized. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Click here for the Potch Gazette page to view this stories and more. School News: Weekly Highlights • ES le Grange School’s Blood Donors Make a Difference: On February 4, students and staff donated blood, making a life-saving impact. A special mention goes to Uil Marx for his remarkable 78th blood donation! • Baillies Archery Team Aims for Gold: Baillies is hosting a fundraiser on February 8 at Pick 'n Pay Vanderhoff Park to support their top-performing archery team’s travel expenses. Their 2024 achievements include earning North West colors and ranking as South Africa’s third-best school archery team. • Gimmies Shine at Interhouse Swimming Gala: Standout performances from Christiaan Nel, Wian Bartleman, Irma Kotze, Minke Bester, and Mathilda Liebenberg led Gimmies to a triumphant gala. • PCS Grade 1s Start Their Journey with a Bible: Parys Christelike Skool welcomed its Grade 1 learners with personal Bibles, emphasizing faith and strong character-building values. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Click here for the School Talk page to view this stories and more. Stroomstories Live Streaming for 2025 This week marked the launch of the 2025 season of live streaming on Stroomstories, featuring exciting new content: • Sportchefstroom Episode 1: Hosted by Dircus and The Go-To Guy, this brand-new sports platform replaces the former RugbyRaas segment. The first episode featured Hoërskool Ferdinand Postma’s sports leaders, including Charles Louw (Sport Director) and Donnavan Serfontein (Rugby Organizer and First Team Coach), discussing the school’s strong sporting culture and achievements. • Sportchefstroom Episode 2 : This episode welcomed guest Pastor Errick Coetzee from CRC, who shared insights into the motivational evening with Pierre Spies. Beyond this event, CRC Potchefstroom continues to make a lasting impact on the community through initiatives such as providing daily meals for 1,200 people in need, supported by volunteers and community members. • Spiritual Talk – Episode 1: Hosted by Pieter Conradie, the first episode of Spiritual Talk’s 2025 season featured a conversation with guest Bennie Jonker. They discussed the theme “Leef totdat Christus gevorm is: ‘n Koninkryks Perspektief”, focusing on how faith is a transformative journey rather than a single decision. Referencing Philippians 1:21 and Galatians 4:19, they explored what it truly means to grow in faith and let Christ be formed in one’s life. A thought-provoking discussion for all viewers seeking deeper spiritual understanding. Stay tuned for more exciting discussions, interviews, and sports insights on Stroomstories! Image: The Go0To Guy Creations Upcoming Events Little Love Bugs by Messy Mayhem • Date: February 8, 2025 • Location: Potchefstroom • Cost: R170 per child • A morning of creative, messy play to engage little ones in fun sensory activities! EPSA – Perform Basic Fire Fighting Level 2 • Date: February 10, 2025 • Location: Potchefstroom • Cost: R980 per person • Enhance your firefighting skills with this essential training course. Contact finance@epsa22.com to book your spot. Die Grap van die Huwelik - Comedy & Relationship Show • Date: February 11, 2025 • Location: Dagbreek Landgoed Uitbreiding 1133, Potchefstroom • Cost: VIP R300 per person, R220 per person • Hosted by sex therapist and comedian Timothy Kieswetter, this hilarious yet insightful couple’s show tackles the realities of marriage with humor and honesty. Expect laughter and a fresh perspective on relationships. Tickets available at itickets.co.za. Rise - Called to Be a Champion with Pierre Spies • Date: February 13, 2025 • Location: Dagbreek Estates, Potchefstroom • Cost: Free Entry • Join former Springbok rugby player Pierre Spies for an evening of motivation and inspiration. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this event will empower you to rise above challenges. Doors open at 17:00, with the event running from 17:45 to 19:30. RSVP by February 7 to secure your spot! Golden Week - Campus Invasion at Impala • Welcome Back Students FT Dekstir – February 10, Free Entry, Impala Club • Free Flow Tuesday – February 11, Free Entry for Students, Impala Club • Jack Parow Live at Impala – February 12, R80 online, R100 at the door Valentine’s Events Die Dromers Mark Valentyns-Aand • Date: February 14, 2025 • Location: Plaas Rietvlei Potchefstroom • Cost: R150 per person, R250 per couple (kids under 12 free) • A romantic evening under the stars with live music, delicious food, and dancing. Joshua na die Reën – Valentine’s Picnic • Date: February 14, 2025 • Location: 954 M C Roode St, Potchefstroom • Cost: R200 per person, R350 per couple • A magical picnic experience with music by Joshua na die Reën. Click here for the Events Calendar page to view this events and more. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations Stay tuned for more news and updates in the next edition of News Talk. Until then, stay engaged, stay inspired, and keep making a difference! #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #stroomstories #newstalk 

As jy al ooit 'n aKING-liedjie vol volume gespeel en die lirieke uitgegil het soos jy op die Oppikoppi-verhoog staan, dan weet jy presies wie Laudo Liebenberg is. Gebore op 18 Junie 1984 in Kaapstad, het hy sedert 2007 'n onmisbare deel van die Suid-Afrikaanse musieklandskap geword. As die hoofsanger van aKING en 'n belangrike lid van Eet Kreef!, het hy 'n stem wat jy dadelik herken en 'n talent vir lirieke wat diep sny. Foto : Facebook Laudo Liebenberg Die aKING-Era Laudo het aKING in 2007 in Bellville help stig, en van die begin af was hulle 'n krag om mee rekening te hou. Hulle mengsel van alternatiewe rock en diep lirieke het hulle vinnig 'n gunsteling gemaak op plaaslike radio en feeste. Hulle het wyd getoer en verhoog gedeel met internasionale name soos Oasis, Snow Patrol en Panic! at the Disco. Die groep se diskografie sluit albums in soos Dutch Courage (2008), Against All Odds (2009), The Red Blooded Years (2011) en Morning After (2014). As jy nog nooit You and I in jou kop vasgehaak het nie, luister jy regtig na plaaslike rock? Eet Kreef! Herleef! In 2019 het Laudo 'n nuwe uitdaging aangepak – om die legendariese Eet Kreef! album van Johannes Kerkorrel te herontdek. Met 'n vars klank op klassieke snitte soos Sit dit af en Hillbrow, het Laudo en sy band 'n nuwe generasie blootgestel aan protesmusiek met 'n moderne aanslag. Die projek was nie net oor nostalgie nie; dit was 'n manier om 'n musieklegende te vereer en terselfdertyd relevant te maak vir vandag se luisteraars. Dit het gewerk! Die groep het selfs 'n Fiësta-toekenning vir Beste Musiekgedrewe Produksie in 2020 gewen. Solo Loopbaan: Run Into Waves As jy gedink het Laudo hou net by rock, dink weer. Onder die naam Run Into Waves het hy in alternatiewe pop begin eksperimenteer, met 'n introspektiewe en dieper klank. Sy debuut-EP, Night Owls, is vol spookagtige melodieë en betekenisvolle lirieke. Snitte soos Night Owls en Same Old Mistake wys 'n meer persoonlike kant van sy liedjieskryf, wat bewys dat hy nie net 'n rock-frontman is nie – hy is 'n storieverteller met talent en diversiteit. Nog Steeds Relevant en Besig Met nuwe musiek wat aanhou vloei (luister gerus na sy jongste vrystelling, Staan by jou), is Laudo Liebenberg ver van klaar. Of hy nou aKING lei, Afrikaanse klassiekers herontdek of nuwe klanke verken, een ding bly konstant – sy vermoë om met gehore te skakel deur musiek wat sterk en persoonlik is. So, volgende keer as jy daardie onmiskenbare stem hoor, draai die volume op en geniet dit. Laudo se storie is nog lank nie verby nie. Staan by Jou - Laudo Liebenberg Staan by Jou Sosiale Media Platforms Facebook : Kliek Hier Instagram : Kliek Hier Luister Laudo se musiek Hier Spotify : Kliek Hier Apple Music : Kliek Hier

February 6, 2025 – Sportchefstroom, Potchefstroom’s sports platform, is back with a second episode filled with inspiration, resilience, and community spirit. This episode we welcomed Errick Coetzee from CRC, who shares insights into the powerful motivational evening with Pierre Spies. Image: The Go-To Guy ‘Born to Be a Champion’ – More Than Just a Sports Seminar ‘Born to Be a Champion’ is not just an event for sports enthusiasts—it’s an evening of inspiration, faith, and community-building. The highlight of the night is the story of Pierre Spies, a former Springbok rugby player who transitioned from a successful sports career to becoming a pastor. His journey is a testament to perseverance and transformation, offering valuable lessons not only for athletes but for the entire community. Hosted by CRC Potchefstroom, this seminar is open to all ages and backgrounds. It’s a unique opportunity to hear from a world-class athlete and gain insight into the connection between sports, faith, and personal growth.  Pierre Spies: From the Rugby Field to the Pulpit Pierre Spies' story is one of triumph and challenges. He was a standout international athlete, nominated as Player of the Year in 2009. However, his career took an unexpected turn when he was forced to withdraw from the Springbok squad due to a severe heart condition. How does an elite athlete cope with such a sudden setback? How does one rebuild a future after their career is altered in an instant? In this seminar, Spies shares his journey of faith, determination, and self-discovery. He found a new calling beyond rugby and is now a pastor, serving his community while maintaining his passion for sports.  Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Seminar This event is for everyone—not just athletes! The message of resilience and purpose applies to students, parents, and anyone looking for motivation and direction. For young athletes, this is a must-attend event. They will not only meet a South African rugby legend in person but will also gain valuable life lessons that can shape their own sports journeys. The CRC Church in Potchefstroom shares the same vision as Spies—to uplift and inspire people, making a positive impact on the community. More Than Just a Seminar – A Complete Experience! This evening isn’t just about listening to a speech—it’s a full experience with exciting activities before the seminar begins. Pre-Seminar Activities (Starting at 17:15) ✔️ Live demonstrations by vendors showcasing training techniques ✔️ A local food brand exhibit from Potchefstroom ✔️ Arm wrestling competitions (currently being organized) ✔️ Prize draws with surprises to be revealed during the event ✔️ Food stalls and more! 💡 Important! The first registered attendees will automatically be entered into prize draws, but even those who arrive on the day without pre-registration will have the chance to sign up at the venue. Seminar Schedule 🔹 17:15 – Outdoor activities and exhibits begin 🔹 17:45 – Transition inside to prepare for the seminar Entrance is completely FREE!  The CRC Church sees it as a privilege to host this seminar at no cost to the people of Potchefstroom. However, to ensure the best experience, attendees are encouraged to pre-register by scanning the QR code on pamphlets available throughout Potchefstroom or by visiting CRC Potchefstroom’s Facebook & Instagram pages. Register via Quicket to help organizers plan seating and accommodate as many people as possible. The venue can host between 1,000 and 2,000 people, so be sure to sign up early! Facebook Link CRC Potchefstroom. Quicket Link. Don’t Miss This Opportunity! 📅 Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025 📍 Venue: CRC Potchefstroom (next to Feather Hill) 🎟 Entry: Free (but please register in advance) ✅ Register now via the QR code on the pamphlets or visit CRC Potchefstroom’s Facebook & Instagram pages! Come and experience an evening of inspiration, faith, and sports—and be part of a movement that makes a difference! More Than Just an Event – A Movement! The CRC Church in Potchefstroom has a bigger vision beyond this one seminar. They are committed to making a lasting impact on the community. Their initiatives include providing daily meals for 1,200 people in need, supported by volunteers and community members. Their long-term goal is to expand these efforts and continue reaching those who need it most. The CRC church in Potchefstroom is dedicated to making a positive impact in the city. Their mission isn’t just about hosting events—it’s about building a stronger community. Sportchefstroom Sportchefstroom is not just a one-time show—it is a live-streamed broadcast bringing the latest in sports news, insights, and inspiring stories to Potchefstroom. With Dircus as the face of the show and The Go-To Guy as the driving force behind the initiative, this platform is a must-watch for every sports fan. Each week, viewers can look forward to exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and updates on sports developments in Potchefstroom. Here is the Facebook Link for this episode in Afrikaans. #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #stroomstories #sportchefstroom #CRC