From the streets of Benoni, the same town that gave the world Charlize Theron, emerges a golden voice that has serenaded South Africa for decades. JJ Stephens, often referred to as Mr. Romantic or the Boy from Benoni, has made his mark not just in the music scene, but also in the realms of entrepreneurship and media. Image : Facebook JJ Stephens A Childhood of Song and Dreams JJ's passion for music was evident from his childhood. His mother recounts tales of his incessant singing, which often led him to the bathroom – the only place where he could sing his heart out without any restraint. At a tender age of six, he showcased his talent by winning a competition with an Elvis Presley performance, replete with the King’s signature moves. School eisteddfods saw him garnering gold certificates, while he dreamt of one day releasing a record. Early Career: More Than Just Music Though JJ's heart was always set on music, his early career saw him dabbling in ramp modelling, minor movie roles, and TV gigs. However, his true calling remained the stage, where he sang and danced with an amateur drama society for half a decade. Breakthrough in the Music World The year 1984 marked a turning point. Collaborating with producer Hannes Trollip, JJ recorded "Night-time lovers", leading to his television debut on Sing Country. By 1987, his album "Mystery" catapulted him into the limelight with hits like "11 Roses" gracing radio stations across South Africa. However, balancing a full-time engineering job and his singing career proved challenging, prompting a temporary hiatus. A Triumphant Return An eight-year interlude later, the untimely demise of Bless Bridges, a beloved superstar, drew JJ back into the music world. He penned a tribute, "The day the roses died", which garnered acclaim and led to a lucrative recording contract. From then on, albums like "Alone in the night" and hits like "Jy weet" solidified his place in South African music. Exploring Diverse Genres JJ's versatility shone as he ventured into various genres. From gospel tunes that resonated in Nashville to the country beats that earned accolades like the Country Music Album of the Year, his music touched hearts far and wide. His homage to global icons, from Englebert Humperdinck to Johnny Cash, Don Williams, and Allan Jackson, further showcased his diverse repertoire. A Life Beyond Music Beyond his musical prowess, JJ's multifaceted personality stands out. As a family man, he is married and has two children. He's a tea connoisseur, with a penchant for classic music, action movies, and wildlife. His romantic and sentimental nature often makes him shed a tear during touching movie scenes or while engrossed in a poignant book. Recognition and Legacy With his music featured on over 150 compilation CDs and appearances on prominent TV programs like Toks en Tjops, Jukebox, and Noot Vir Noot, JJ's influence is undeniable. His dedication to his craft and love for his country and people is evident in his soulful tracks and heartfelt lyrics. JJ Stephens, the man with the golden voice, continues to enchant with his rich and mature sound. Whether it's paying homage to love, his homeland, or cherishing memories of tragedies like 9/11 with "In memory of...", his legacy remains embedded in the heartbeats of his listeners. The journey of the Boy from Benoni, from bathroom concerts to national acclaim, is a testament to his talent, passion, and resilience. She Thinks I Still Care - JJ Stephens Listen to JJ Stephens music here YouTube : Click Here (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSBIdCRlXvPip4snFMn4yYg)Spotify : Click Here(https://open.spotify.com/artist/78CRI6ZyS7gwj6Lxufpwdi?autoplay=true) Apple Music : Click Here(https://music.apple.com/za/artist/jj-stephens/417606328) Follow JJ Stephens Social Media Pages Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jjstephens.artist)

Interactive Studio Art Lessons for Kids of All Ages Image: The Go To Guy Creations Picassies Art Classes in Potchefstroom brings an exciting and engaging opportunity for children to unearth their artistic talents. Believing that creativity is the natural order of life, the studio offers term-based and monthly art lessons. Image: Picassies Art Classes: Somerset West & Potch Facebook Each term comprises a cycle of 9 lessons, with one class every week. Children are meticulously grouped based on their age brackets, ensuring personalized attention tailored to their developmental needs. The age groups are: • 5-6 (Grade RR – R) • 7-8 years (Grade 1 – 2) • 9-11 years (Grade 3 – 5) • 12-13 years (Grade 6 – 7) Parents can rest easy as all art supplies and equipment are provided by the studio, negating any extra purchases. Online Bundles: Artistic Exploration at Home! Understanding the need for flexible learning, Picassies also offers online art lesson bundles. Each of these self-paced bundles includes three lessons, typically designed to be completed within a month. Suited for ages 5 to 13, every bundle offers easy step-by-step videos, captivating fun facts about the lesson's subject, a basic supply list, and clear lesson objectives. These lessons can be accessed through Google Classroom, with unique codes sent post-payment. The sole prerequisite? A Gmail account. Image: Picassies Art Classes: Somerset West & Potch Facebook More than Just Art: A Platform for Brain Development Picassies, with branches in both Potchefstroom and Somerset Wes, is not just another art class. It's an incredible platform that stimulates brain development using the wonders of art. Specifically targeted at children, these art lessons emphasize the importance of early childhood development and the integral role art plays in fostering creativity, problem-solving, and cognitive growth. Image: Picassies Art Classes: Somerset West & Potch Facebook Last Week's Fun: Exploring Multiple Artistic Mediums The previous week at Picassies was nothing short of spectacular! The children delved into a project that incorporated various artistic mediums. The experience was not only educational but a sheer fun-filled adventure. This is a testament to the studio's commitment to ensuring every class is not just about learning but also about enjoying and embracing the world of art. In conclusion, Picassies Art Classes is a beacon for young, budding artists. It's not just about painting and drawing; it's about shaping young minds, encouraging creativity, and laying the foundation for a future filled with innovation and imagination. To Contact Picassies Potch: Art Lessons To get in touch or book simply click on the image below, which will direct you to the Picassies Potch: Art Lessons Digital Business Card Digital Business Card #TheGoToGuy #thingstodo

Introduction Welcome to the heart of the African wilderness, where nature's raw and untamed beauty collides with the awe-inspiring presence of the formidable apex predator of the African bush: the mighty Lion. Game drives in this vast and untamed landscape offer a unique opportunity to witness the lives of these powerful big cats up close and personal. Lions, with their commanding presence and awe-inspiring beauty, have captivated the imagination of explorers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts for centuries. The African savanna is their kingdom, where they reign supreme at the top of the food chain. As we ventured out into this wild terrain, we kept our senses attuned to the subtle signs and sounds that hinted at their presence. With patience and a bit of luck, we have had the privilege of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Join me as we venture forth on a journey to explore the African bush, where the reign of the Lion is unquestioned, and where the raw power and grace of these apex predators are on full display. Our game drive promises excitement, adventure, and the chance to witness the king of beasts in all its glory. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to be enthralled by the enchanting world of the African Lion. Breathtaking Experience As the golden sun descended over the horizon, casting a warm and ethereal glow across the breathtaking mountain roads, a remarkable experience awaited my guest and me on our evening game drive. Nature's grand spectacle unfolded before our eyes, with the sighting of fresh Lion tracks that hinted at an imminent encounter with a truly regal pride. Walking Gracefully The allure of the African wilderness lies in its unpredictability, and this day was no exception. We eagerly followed the telltale signs, our hearts racing with anticipation, until we found ourselves face to face with a mesmerizing sight. The entire Lion pride was on the move, walking gracefully in perfect unison. As the family of majestic felines approached, our hearts skipped a beat. Reaffirming Dominance The dominant female led the procession, exuding a regal aura that demanded respect. Her powerful presence was unmistakable, and her graceful stride painted a picture of serenity and strength combined. Following closely behind her was the big male, a magnificent specimen of the Lion world. His muscular frame and commanding presence were impossible to ignore, reminding us of the true kings of the savanna. As he strolled, he took pauses to scent mark his territory, reaffirming his dominance in the pride and the landscape itself. Remarkable Scene The road before us became a runway for these extraordinary creatures, and our hearts swelled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a remarkable scene. It was a moment frozen in time, where we were mere spectators in their world, humbled by the beauty of nature's design. Testament Of Wonders The encounter with this united and proud Lion family is a testament to the wonders of the wild and the importance of preserving their natural habitats. Such moments remind us of our duty to protect and cherish these incredible animals for generations to come. Everlasting Memory As the sun dipped below the mountains, and the Lions disappeared into the wilderness, we were left with a memory that would forever be etched in our hearts. This is the magic of the African safari, where every journey is filled with surprises, and every sunset holds the promise of a new and awe-inspiring adventure. True Royalty Of The Savanna On an early morning game drive in this untamed wilderness, we embarked on a quest to find the true royalty of the African savanna: Lions. As the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, we were in for a remarkable sighting - an exceptional female Lion who rules her pride with grace and wisdom. The Queen Lions, often referred to as the kings of the jungle, have a powerful queen within their midst. This remarkable Lioness serves as the leader and decision-maker of her pride. She is not only the heart and soul of the group but also its guiding light. The Cartographer One of the Lioness's most extraordinary talents is her unrivaled knowledge of the vast territory she calls home. Like a seasoned cartographer, she knows every nook and cranny of her domain, and she imparts this invaluable wisdom to the younger generations. Her unparalleled understanding of the property ensures successful hunts and the survival of her pride. Masterful Hunter And Mentor The Lioness is not only a masterful hunter but a dedicated mentor. She passes down her wisdom to the next generation of Lions, ensuring the survival of her lineage. Her commitment to nurturing and teaching the young is evident in the way they watch her every move with reverence. The queen Lioness holds a position of great respect within her pride. Her decisions are law, and her presence commands the admiration of her fellow pride members. Extraordinary Creatures In the video captured during our game drive, we can clearly see the remarkable Lioness in action. Her regal presence, wisdom, and command over her pride are awe-inspiring. The way she guides her fellow lions and ensures their survival is a testament to the incredible bonds and intricate dynamics of Lion society. This unique sighting of the Lioness leader in Southern Africa's wilderness reminds us of the extraordinary creatures that call this region home. Enchanting Landscapes Of Southern Africa As you embark on a thrilling game drive through the enchanting landscapes of Southern Africa, one of the most remarkable sightings you might encounter is that of Lion cubs taking their first steps into the world. These cubs, just a few weeks old, are at a pivotal phase of being introduced and accepted by the rest of their pride. Critical Period Of Denning Lions have designated denning sites, hidden away from the prying eyes of the world. It's here that Lionesses give birth to their cubs, providing them with a safe and secluded environment to start life. For the first few weeks, the mother and her cubs stay hidden, bonding and allowing the newborns to gather the strength they need. After this critical period, the mother slowly reintroduces her cubs to the rest of the pride. Balance Between Nurturing And Survival This heartwarming event is a spectacle to witness. The older pride members are curious yet cautious, and the cubs are both excited and apprehensive. It's a captivating display of nature's delicate balance between nurturing and survival. These initial interactions are vital in shaping the cubs' future within the pride. Through play, exploration, and guidance from the older Lions, the cubs learn valuable lessons and build the strength and social bonds they'll need in the wild. Beauty Of Southern African Wilderness So, as you savor the beauty of Southern Africa's wilderness, remember that the captivating sight of Lion cubs taking their first steps towards acceptance is a glimpse into the circle of life in this extraordinary land. Witnessing such moments on a game drive is a testament to the resilience and wonder of nature, a true privilege for those who venture into this remarkable corner of the world. About The Author Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds. Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens. To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography  (https://www.youtube.com/@kylegrobler9777)       More Animal Stories For more articles on Going On Safari experiences and awe inspiring sightings of wildlife in Southern Africa, click the link below: Going On Safari - The Elephant: Click Here(https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/community-space/green-talk/going-on-safari-biggest-terrestrial-mammal-in-the-world-the-elephant) Comments, Suggestions, Stories Please do feel free to add any comments in our comments section below, we always love to hear about animals and experiences from our readers.