Attention all new and soon-to-be dads! Are you feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to expect as a new parent? Do you want to connect with other dads and learn from their experiences? If so, we invite you to join our new dads group! Our group is designed specifically for new and expectant fathers, and we will cover a wide range of topics to help you navigate this exciting and challenging time in your life. From bonding with your newborn to supporting your partner during pregnancy, we will provide a supportive and informative space for dads to engage with each other and learn from experienced fathers. We will cover everything from developmental milestones and baby care to self-care and maintaining a healthy relationship with your partner. Our group is a place where you can ask questions, share your experiences, and connect with other dads who are going through similar experiences. So why join our group? You will have access to a community of dads who can provide support and guidance as you navigate this new chapter in your life. You will have the opportunity to learn from experienced fathers and gain insights into what to expect as a new parent. And most importantly, you will be part of a community that understands and values the important role that dads play in their children's lives. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with other dads and learn from their experiences. Join our new dads group today and become part of a community that will support and guide you through this exciting journey of fatherhood. Common topics you can expect, plus you can add your own here are some common topics that could be used to create a forum for dads to engage with each other: Support during pregnancy: Tips for being a supportive partner during pregnancy, including emotional support, practical help, and communication. Preparing for childbirth: Discussions around childbirth preparation, including childbirth classes, birth plans, and what to expect during labor and delivery. Newborn care: Discussions on newborn care, including feeding, sleep patterns, diaper changes, bathing, and soothing techniques. Adjusting to new parenthood: Discussions around the transition to parenthood, including managing the demands of a newborn, adjusting to new routines, and coping with sleep deprivation. Balancing work and family: Discussions around balancing work responsibilities with the demands of a new baby, including tips for managing leave, transitioning back to work, and finding work-life balance. Maintaining a healthy relationship: Discussions around maintaining a healthy relationship with your partner after the birth of a child, including communication, intimacy, and managing conflict. Mental health and self-care: Discussions around mental health and self-care for new dads, including coping with stress, anxiety, and depression, and taking care of oneself. Fatherhood roles and expectations: Discussions around fatherhood roles and expectations, including how to balance traditional and modern expectations of fatherhood, and how to develop a strong and positive relationship with your child. These are some of the most common issues that expecting dads and partners face when expecting new babies and being first-time dads. A forum dedicated to these topics can provide a supportive and informative space for dads to share their experiences and seek advice and guidance from other fathers. Join the Group by clicking on this link here: Hey Dadda!

Are you a talented local musician looking to take your brand to the next level? If so, we've got great news for you! Our webpage is now inviting local musicians who are eager to showcase their talent and reach a wider audience, to join our Jam Board for Local Musicians and Bands As a local musician, you understand the importance of having a platform that promotes your brand effectively. Our webpage is dedicated to supporting local musicians just like you and providing you with the exposure you need to succeed. Whether you're an aspiring artist just starting out or an established musician looking for new opportunities, we welcome you to join our community. Our webpage offers a range of benefits to local musicians, including: Increased exposure: By joining our webpage, you'll have the chance to reach a wider audience and connect with music lovers from all over the world. Promoting your brand: Our webpage is designed to showcase your talent and promote your brand effectively. You'll have access to a platform where you can share your music, connect with fans, and build a following. Networking opportunities: Our webpage is a hub for local musicians and music lovers alike. You'll have the opportunity to connect with other local musicians and collaborate on new projects. Access to resources: We understand the challenges that local musicians face and want to help you overcome them. That's why we provide access to resources such as industry insights, marketing tips, and more to help you succeed. Below find a few questions that can assist us in helping introduce you to the local community. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background in music? How would you describe your musical style and what sets it apart from others? Who are some of your biggest musical influences? What has been your proudest moment as a musician so far? Can you share with us any exciting projects or plans you have in the works? What advice would you give to aspiring musicians and those just starting out in the industry? So what are you waiting for? Join our webpage today and take your brand to the next level! To register your information click on this link and craete a new post, providing an overview of your band, its your space so you can add anything you want... click here: Jam Junction

Creating a profile for your band is an important step in establishing your online presence and attracting fans and potential bookings. In this blog, I’ll provide some tips and best practices for putting together an effective band profile. Define your band’s identity : Before you start creating your band’s profile, it’s important to have a clear understanding of who you are as a band. This includes your genre, your style, and your image. Consider what sets you apart from other bands and what makes you unique. Use professional-quality photos : A picture is worth a thousand words, and that’s especially true when it comes to promoting your band. Invest in a professional photoshoot or hire a photographer to capture high-quality images that showcase your band’s style and energy. Write a compelling bio: Your band’s bio is one of the most important components of your profile. It should give fans a sense of who you are and what you’re all about. Make sure to include details about your history, your musical influences, and your goals as a band. Share your music : The most important thing for fans to know about your band is what your music sounds like. Make sure to include samples of your music on your profile, either by linking to your SoundCloud or YouTube channel or by uploading MP3s directly to your site. Stay active on social media: Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your band and engaging with fans. Make sure to set up profiles on popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and post updates regularly to keep fans in the loop about what you’re up to. Make it easy to contact you : Make sure to include your band’s contact information on your profile, including your email address and phone number. You should also include a contact form or a booking request form so that fans and potential bookers can get in touch with you easily. Keep your profile up-to-date : As your band grows and evolves, so should your profile. Make sure to update your profile regularly with new photos, music, and news to keep fans engaged and interested. By following these tips, you can create a strong, effective profile for your band that will help you build a dedicated fanbase and get the gigs you want. Loading the your music on other social media platforms can help you reach a wider audience and grow your fanbase. Here are some steps you can follow to get started: Choose the right platform: There are many different social media platforms you can use to share your music, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular platforms for musicians include SoundCloud, YouTube, and Instagram. Consider which platform is the best fit for your music and your target audience. Create a profile : Once you've chosen a platform, create a profile for your band or for yourself as a solo artist. Make sure to include a professional profile picture, a bio that describes your music and your goals, and links to your website and other social media profiles. Upload your music: Once your profile is set up, it's time to upload your music. Most platforms allow you to upload MP3 or WAV files, and many also have tools for editing and enhancing your tracks. Make sure to provide high-quality, well-mastered recordings to ensure the best listening experience for your fans. Add tags and descriptions: Adding tags and descriptions to your music can help make it easier for fans to find your music on social media. Use keywords that describe your music and your genre, and include links to your website and other social media profiles in your descriptions. Share your music : Once your music is uploaded, it's time to share it with the world. Share links to your tracks on your other social media profiles, and use hashtags to make it easy for fans to find you. Consider creating a playlist of your music on platforms like SoundCloud and YouTube to make it easier for fans to access all of your tracks in one place. Engage with your fans : Finally, it's important to engage with your fans on social media. Respond to comments, answer questions, and interact with your fans to build a strong and supportive community. By following these steps, you can successfully load your music on social media platforms and reach a wider audience. Remember, it takes time and effort to grow your fanbase, so don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Keep uploading and promoting your music, and you'll be on your way to success. We Created a Space for Local Musicians Are you looking for a space to connect with your fans and potential clients in your local area? Look no further! We have created an online forum specifically for music bands in Potchefstroom to come together, share their music, and interact with their fans and clients. Our forum is designed to provide a platform for musicians to showcase their talents and connect with others in the local music community. It's a space where you can share your latest songs, get feedback from fans and other musicians, and even find new opportunities to perform in the area. As a member of our forum, you'll get the benefit of being promoted through our local media channels. This means that your music and your band will be exposed to a wider audience and potential clients who may be interested in booking your band for events in the area. We believe that by bringing together the music community in Potchefstroom, we can create a stronger and more vibrant local music scene. We want to help musicians like you to connect with their fans and clients, and to grow and develop as artists. So what are you waiting for? Join our online forum today and start connecting with your fans and potential clients in Potchefstroom. We can't wait to see what kind of amazing music you'll share with us! You can join the forum at this link here: Jam Junction

Are you a new mom, feeling overwhelmed and in need of support and guidance? Or perhaps you're an experienced mom who wants to share your knowledge and experiences with others. Look no further than our Moms Group, a supportive community of women who understand the joys and challenges of motherhood in Potchefstroom As a mom, you know that motherhood can be both rewarding and overwhelming. But you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our Moms Group is a place where you can connect with other moms, share your experiences, and find support and guidance from others who have been there. Whether you're a new mom adjusting to life with a newborn, or an experienced mom juggling work and family responsibilities, our Moms Group provides a supportive and welcoming environment where you can learn and grow as a parent. What is the Group About? Our group offers a range of resources and support, including discussions on topics like breastfeeding, sleep and feeding schedules, postpartum recovery, parenting techniques, and more. You'll have the opportunity to connect with other moms who share similar experiences and challenges, and to learn from their experiences. As a member of our Moms Group, you'll have access to a wealth of resources and support, including: Expert advice and guidance from healthcare providers and parenting experts Discussions and support from other moms in similar situations Opportunities to share your experiences and knowledge with other moms Valuable resources and tools to help you navigate the challenges of motherhood Here are some common topics that would be discussed on the group, and you can also add your own: Pregnancy and childbirth: Discussions about the various stages of pregnancy, prenatal care, and childbirth, including birth plans, labor, and delivery. Breastfeeding: Tips and advice on breastfeeding, including latching, milk production, and common issues like engorgement, sore nipples, and mastitis. Sleep and feeding schedules: Discussions about baby sleep patterns and creating a feeding schedule that works for both baby and mom. Newborn care: Topics related to caring for a newborn, including diapering, bathing, and swaddling, as well as dealing with common issues like colic and reflux. Postpartum recovery: Discussions about postpartum recovery, including healing from childbirth, postpartum depression, and the challenges of adjusting to life as a new mom. Parenting techniques: Discussions about various parenting techniques, including attachment parenting, baby-led weaning, and different approaches to discipline. Childcare and returning to work: Discussions about the challenges of returning to work after having a baby, choosing childcare, and balancing work and family. Managing stress: Tips and strategies for managing the stress of being a new parent, including self-care, mindfulness, and finding support. Infant development: Discussions about infant development, including milestones, growth and development, and ways to stimulate your baby's brain. Family dynamics: Discussions about the impact of a new baby on family dynamics, including relationships with partners, siblings, and extended family. How to Join? Joining our Moms Group is easy and free. Simply sign up and start connecting with other moms today. Our group is a supportive and empowering community that will help you navigate the challenges of motherhood and find the joy and fulfilment that comes with being a mom. So what are you waiting for? Join our Moms Group today and start your journey to empowered motherhood! Click Here to Join: Hey Mamma!

About the Dome The Vredefort Dome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Free State province of South Africa, just a stone throw away from Potchefstroom, and for those that wish to get a sense of distance from Johannesburg, its about 120 kilometres from Johannesburg, so about an hour and a half drive. The Dome was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005 , recognising its unique geological and cultural significance. It is the only meteorite impact site on the list and is considered an important site for scientific research into the history of the earth and the formation of the solar system. Unesco states that: "Vredefort Dome is the oldest, largest, and most deeply eroded complex meteorite impact structure in the world. It is the site of the world’s greatest single, known energy release event. It contains high quality and accessible geological (outcrop) sites which demonstrate a range of geological evidences of a complex meteorite impact structure. The rural and natural landscapes of the serial property help portray the magnitude of the ring structures resulting from the impact. The serial nomination is considered to be a representative sample of a complex meteorite impact structure. A comprehensive comparative analysis with other complex meteorite impact structures demonstrated that it is the only example on earth providing a full geological profile of an astrobleme below the crater floor, thereby enabling research into the genesis and development of an astrobleme immediately post impact" You can view some photos of the Dome on the UNESCO website here: Vredefort Dome UNESCO Photos The Vredefort Dome is the largest and oldest known meteorite impact site on Earth, with an estimated age of 2.023 billion years. The impact was so powerful that it caused the earth's crust to deform and fold, forming a dome-shaped structure that is about 300 kilometers in diameter, this dome shaped is now filled with rock formations known as "domal structures. The Vredefort Dome is managed by the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site Management Authority, which works to preserve and protect the site for future generations. The management authority works closely with local communities, conservation groups, and other stakeholders to ensure that the Vredefort Dome is preserved and protected for future generations. Can you visit the dome? Absolutely you can, there are a number of hiking trials, places to stay and things to do in the dome, you can visit this page and search some of the things to do in the dome, as well as this page that we recently found when doing research on the dome What is a meteorite impact site and how many meteorites have hit earth? A meteorite impact site is a location on the Earth's surface where a meteorite, a small celestial object made of rock or metal, has struck the earth. Meteorites are formed when small celestial bodies, such as asteroids or comets, collide with each other in space and break into smaller pieces. Some of these pieces can eventually make their way to Earth, where they can impact the surface and create impact sites. It is estimated that the Earth has been struck by thousands of meteorites over its 4.5 billion year history. Many of these impacts have occurred in the early history of the Earth, when the solar system was still forming and there were more small celestial bodies in the inner solar system. However, meteorite impacts continue to occur today, although they are much less common due to the fact that most of the small celestial bodies in the inner solar system have been absorbed by the planets or have been pushed out to the outer solar system. The size and impact of meteorites can vary widely. Some meteorites are very small and do little or no damage upon impact, while others can be much larger and can create significant impact craters or even cause major disasters. The Vredefort Dome, for example, is the result of a massive meteorite impact that occurred over 2 billion years ago and left a deep circular depression that is now filled with rock formations known as "domal structures." What is a domal structure? Domal structures are rock formations that are found in some meteorite impact sites. They are created when the shock waves from a meteorite impact cause the Earth's crust to deform and fold, forming a dome-shaped structure. Domal structures can vary in size and shape, depending on the size and intensity of the meteorite impact that caused them. In general, they are characterised by a circular or oval-shaped depression in the ground, surrounded by raised, folded, or faulted rock layers. Domal structures are typically made up of a variety of rock types, including sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and igneous rocks. They may also contain fragments of the meteorite itself, as well as other minerals and elements that were present at the time of the impact. Domal structures are important scientific features because they provide clues about the history of the Earth and the formation of the solar system. They are also of interest to geologists and other researchers because they can provide insights into the processes that shape the Earth's crust and the forces that drive geologic change. The Vredefort Dome in South Africa is one of the best-known examples of a domal structure. It is the largest and oldest known meteorite impact site on Earth, with an estimated age of 2.023 billion years. The impact was so powerful that it caused the earth's crust to deform and fold, forming a dome-shaped structure that is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) in diameter. List of other meteorite impact sites of significance in the world There are many meteorite impact sites around the world that are of scientific and cultural significance. Some of the most well-known include: The Chicxulub crater in Mexico , which is believed to have been formed by a meteorite impact about 66 million years ago. This impact is thought to have played a role in the extinction of the dinosaurs. The Barringer crater in Arizona , also known as Meteor Crater, which is the best-preserved meteorite impact site on Earth. The crater is about 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) in diameter and was formed about 50,000 years ago by a meteorite impact. The Ries crater in Germany , which is a large, well-preserved impact crater that was formed about 15 million years ago by a meteorite impact. The Sudbury Basin in Canada , which is a large impact crater that was formed about 1.85 billion years ago by a meteorite impact. The Manicouagan crater in Quebec , Canada, which is a large, well-preserved impact crater that was formed about 214 million years ago by a meteorite impact. The Acraman crater in South Australia , which is a large impact crater that was formed about 580 million years ago by a meteorite impact. The Morokweng crater in South Africa, which is a large impact crater that was formed about 145 million years ago by a meteorite impact. These are just a few examples of the many meteorite impact sites around the world that are of scientific and cultural significance. Many more have been discovered in recent years, and it is likely that many more will be discovered in the future as scientists continue to study the history of the Earth and the solar system. More info on the Morokweng crater The Morokweng crater is a large meteorite impact site located in the Kalahari Desert in South Africa. It is estimated to be about 145 million years old and is one of the largest and best-preserved impact craters in the world. The Morokweng crater is approximately 80 kilometers in diameter and was formed when a meteorite struck the earth, creating a circular depression in the ground. The impact was so powerful that it caused the earth's crust to deform and fold, forming a dome-shaped structure that is about 20 kilometers in diameter. The Morokweng crater is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many species of birds and mammals. The area is also home to several important archaeological sites, including the Morokweng-Kopje, a rock art site that is believed to be over 1,000 years old. The Morokweng crater is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it is an important scientific and cultural site that is protected by the South African government. It is also a popular tourist destination, with several visitor centers and guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the crater and its history. More info about the vredefort-kopje rock art The Vredefort-Kopje is a rock art site located within the Vredefort Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Free State province of South Africa. It is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is an important cultural and historical site for the local community. The Vredefort-Kopje is home to a number of rock art paintings and engravings, which are thought to have been created by the San people, a group of indigenous hunter-gatherers who lived in the region for thousands of years. The rock art at the Vredefort-Kopje includes a variety of designs and symbols, including animals, humans, and abstract patterns. The Vredefort-Kopje is an important cultural site for the local community because it is believed to contain the history and traditions of the San people. It is also an important scientific site because it provides insights into the lives and beliefs of the San people, as well as the history and culture of the region. What is rock art as found in the vredefort kopje? Rock art is a type of art that is created by carving or painting designs onto natural rock surfaces. It is a form of artistic expression that has been practiced by many cultures around the world for thousands of years. What are the odds that earth will again be struck by a major meteorite? In general, the Earth is relatively unlikely to be struck by a large meteorite, such as one that is over a kilometer in size. This is because there are relatively few large meteorites in the solar system, and the Earth's atmosphere and gravity are effective at protecting the planet from most large impacts. However, the Earth is more likely to be struck by smaller meteorites, such as those that are a few meters in size or smaller. These meteorites are much more common in the solar system, and some of them are able to make it through the Earth's atmosphere and impact the surface. It is estimated that the Earth is struck by about 100 tons of meteorites each year. Most of these meteorites are very small and do little or no damage upon impact, but larger meteorites can cause significant damage or even disasters if they strike the Earth. What defence systems are being implemented to protect earth from meteorite strikes? There are currently several defence systems in place or being developed to protect the Earth from meteorite strikes. These systems are designed to detect and track incoming meteorites, and to provide early warning of potential impacts. Some of the main defense systems include: The International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) is an international organisation that monitors the orbits of asteroids and comets and works to coordinate the global response to potential asteroid impacts. The Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) is a branch of NASA that is responsible for coordinating the U.S. government's efforts to detect, track, and mitigate potential asteroid impacts. The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) is a telescope that is being built in Chile that will be able to detect and track asteroids and comets as they pass through the solar system. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) is a mission being developed by NASA to test the feasibility of using a spacecraft to deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth. The Asteroid Impact and Deflection Assessment (AIDA) mission is a joint project being developed by NASA and the European Space Agency to test the feasibility of deflecting an asteroid using a kinetic impactor. These are just a few examples of the many defence systems that are being developed to protect the Earth from meteorite strikes. While it is not currently possible to completely protect the Earth from all potential impacts, these systems are helping to increase our understanding of the risks and to develop strategies to mitigate the effects of potential impacts. What significant meteorites struck earth in the past decade and what was the impact? There have been several significant meteorite impacts on Earth in the past decade, although most of these impacts have been relatively small and have caused little or no damage. Some examples of significant meteorite impacts in the past decade include: The Chelyabinsk meteorite , which struck Russia in 2013. This meteorite was about 17 meters (55 feet) in size and exploded in the atmosphere, releasing an estimated 500 kilotons of energy. The explosion caused significant damage to buildings and injured over 1,200 people. The Boltysh meteorite , which struck Ukraine in 2004. This meteorite was about 20 meters (65 feet) in size and left a large impact crater that is now a popular tourist destination. The Sutter's Mill meteorite, which struck California in 2012. This meteorite was about the size of a small car and was the largest meteorite to fall on Earth in more than a century. It was recovered in pieces and is now being studied by scientists to learn more about the early solar system. The Chebarkul meteorite , which struck Russia in 2013. This meteorite was about 20 meters (65 feet) in size and left a large impact crater on the surface. It was one of the largest meteorites to strike Earth in recent years. The El Reno meteorite, which struck Oklahoma in 2011. This meteorite was about 20 meters (65 feet) in size and caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. It was the largest meteorite to strike the United States in over a century. What is a shooting star? A shooting star, also known as a meteor, is a bright streak of light that is visible in the night sky when a small piece of space debris enters the Earth's atmosphere and burns up. Shooting stars are usually caused by bits of rock or dust that are left over from the formation of the solar system and are orbiting the Sun. When a piece of space debris enters the Earth's atmosphere, it is moving at a very high speed and is subjected to intense heat and friction. This causes the debris to ignite and burn up, creating a bright streak of light that is visible from the ground. Shooting stars are usually only visible for a few seconds or minutes, as the space debris burns up quickly as it falls through the atmosphere. They are typically seen in the night sky as a fleeting, bright streak of light that moves across the sky and then disappears. Shooting stars are a natural phenomenon that have fascinated people for centuries, and they are a common sight in the night sky. Many people enjoy watching for shooting stars and making wishes on them, as they are thought to be a symbol of good luck. What is a star? A star is a celestial body that is composed of gas, dust, and plasma, and that generates energy through nuclear fusion reactions. Stars are the most luminous objects in the universe, and they are held together by their own gravity. Stars come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours, and they are classified based on their characteristics, such as their mass, temperature, and luminosity. The most common type of star is the main-sequence star, which is a star that is burning hydrogen in its core and generating energy through the fusion of hydrogen atoms. Stars are born when clouds of gas and dust collapse under their own gravity, forming a dense, hot core. As the core becomes denser and hotter, nuclear fusion reactions begin to occur, releasing vast amounts of energy in the form of light and heat. This energy is radiated out from the star's surface, making it visible from Earth and other locations in the universe. Stars are an essential part of the universe, and they play a key role in the evolution and development of galaxies and other celestial objects. They provide light and heat to planets and other objects in their orbit, and they are the source of many of the elements that make up the universe, including carbon, oxygen, and iron. What is the difference between a star and a meteorite? A star is a celestial body that is composed of gas, dust, and plasma, and that generates energy through nuclear fusion reactions. Stars are the most luminous objects in the universe, and they are held together by their own gravity. They come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours, and they are classified based on their characteristics, such as their mass, temperature, and luminosity. A meteorite, on the other hand, is a piece of space debris that has entered the Earth's atmosphere and has landed on the surface. Meteorites can be made of a variety of materials, including rock, metal, and ice, and they are often fragments of asteroids or comets. Meteorites are formed when asteroids or comets break up in space and some of their fragments land on Earth. These fragments are subjected to intense heat and friction as they enter the Earth's atmosphere, and they often burn up or vaporise upon impact. One key difference between a star and a meteorite is that a star is much larger and more massive than a meteorite. Stars are typically hundreds of thousands to millions of times larger than meteorites, and they have much more mass. In addition, stars are self-luminous, while meteorites are not. Meteorites are only visible when they are illuminated by the light of the Sun or another source, while stars emit their own light. What is an asteroid? An asteroid is a small, rocky celestial body that orbits the Sun. Asteroids are made up of a variety of materials, including rock, metal, and ice, and they are usually less than 1000 kilometers (620 miles) in diameter. Asteroids are thought to be remnants of the early solar system that have remained largely unchanged since their formation. They are believed to be made up of the same materials that were present in the solar system when it first formed, making them important scientific specimens for understanding the early history of the solar system. Asteroids are found in the asteroid belt, a region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter that is home to millions of asteroids. They are also found in other parts of the solar system, including the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. Asteroids are classified based on their composition and other characteristics, such as their size, shape, and orbit. Some asteroids are made up of metallic materials, while others are made up of rock or a mixture of both. Some asteroids are round, while others are more irregular in shape. Asteroids are of scientific and practical interest because they can provide valuable insights into the early history of the solar system, and they may contain valuable resources such as water, minerals, and other materials that could be used to support human space exploration. What is a comet? A comet is a small, icy celestial body that orbits the Sun and is made up of a mixture of dust and ice. Comets are believed to be remnants of the early solar system, and they are thought to contain materials that have remained largely unchanged since the formation of the solar system. Comets are typically composed of a mixture of water ice, methane, and other volatile substances, as well as dust and small rocks. They are often referred to as "dirty snowballs" because of their composition. Comets are usually much smaller than planets and asteroids, and they have a highly elliptical orbit that takes them far from the Sun at their most distant point and brings them close to the Sun at their closest point. As a comet approaches the Sun, the heat and light from the Sun cause the volatile substances in the comet to vaporise, creating a glowing halo around the comet called a coma. The coma can be many thousands of kilometers in diameter, and it is made up of gas and dust that has been released from the comet's nucleus. Comets are of scientific and practical interest because they are believed to contain valuable information about the early solar system and the conditions that existed when the solar system first formed. They are also of interest because they may contain valuable resources such as water and other materials that could be used to support human space exploration. Whats the difference between an asteroid and a comet? Asteroids and comets are both small celestial bodies that orbit the Sun, but they have some key differences. Some of the main differences between asteroids and comets include: Composition : Asteroids are typically made up of rock and metal, while comets are made up of a mixture of ice, dust, and other volatile substances. Size : Asteroids are usually larger than comets, with most asteroids being less than 1000 kilometers (620 miles) in diameter. Comets, on the other hand, are typically much smaller, with diameters ranging from a few kilometers to a few tens of kilometers. Orbit : Asteroids are found in the asteroid belt, a region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, while comets can be found in a variety of locations throughout the solar system, including the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. Asteroids have relatively stable and circular orbits, while comets have highly elliptical orbits that take them far from the Sun at their most distant point and bring them close to the Sun at their closest point. Appearance : Asteroids are usually dark and dull in appearance, while comets are often much brighter and more luminous. This is because comets contain volatile substances that vaporize as they approach the Sun, creating a glowing halo around the comet called a coma. Coma : A coma is a glowing halo around a comet that is made up of gas and dust that has been released from the comet's nucleus. Comas are not present around asteroids because they do not contain the volatile substances that are necessary to create a coma. Overall, asteroids and comets are two very different types of celestial bodies that have unique characteristics and properties. Understanding the differences between these two types of objects is an important part of studying the solar system and the universe. What are the different celestial bodies found in space? There are many different celestial bodies found in space, and they can be classified based on a variety of characteristics, such as size, composition, and location. Some examples of celestial bodies found in space include: Planets : Planets are large, spherical celestial bodies that orbit the Sun and are made up of rock, metal, and other materials. There are eight planets in the solar system: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Dwarf planets : Dwarf planets are celestial bodies that orbit the Sun and are similar in size and composition to planets, but they are not considered to be true planets because they have not cleared their orbits of other celestial debris. Examples of dwarf planets include Pluto, Ceres, and Eris. Moons : Moons are celestial bodies that orbit planets and are made up of a variety of materials, including rock, metal, and ice. Many planets in the solar system have moons, including Earth, which has one moon. Asteroids : Asteroids are small, rocky celestial bodies that orbit the Sun and are made up of a variety of materials, including rock, metal, and ice. They are usually less than 1000 kilometers (620 miles) in diameter and are found in the asteroid belt, a region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Comets : Comets are small, icy celestial bodies that orbit the Sun and are made up of a mixture of dust and ice. They are typically much smaller than asteroids and have a highly elliptical orbit that takes them far from the Sun at their most distant point and brings them close to the Sun at their closest point. Meteors : Meteors, also known as shooting stars, are small pieces of space debris that enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up, creating a bright streak of light in the sky. They are usually caused by bits of rock or dust that are left over from the formation of the solar system and are orbiting the Sun. Is Pluto not a Planet? Pluto was once considered to be the ninth planet in the solar system. However, in 2006, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) reclassified Pluto as a "dwarf planet," a new category of celestial bodies that was created at that time. The IAU defines a planet as a celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical in shape, and has cleared its orbit of other celestial debris. According to this definition, Pluto does not meet the criteria to be considered a planet because it has not cleared its orbit of other celestial debris. Instead, it is classified as a "dwarf planet" because it is similar in size and composition to planets but does not meet the full criteria to be considered a planet. There are currently five known dwarf planets in the solar system: Pluto, Ceres, Eris, Makemake, and Haumea. These celestial bodies are similar to planets in many ways, but they are not considered to be true planets because they have not cleared their orbits of other celestial debris. It is important to note that the definition of a planet is not a fixed concept and may change as our understanding of the universe evolves. The IAU's definition of a planet has been the subject of much debate and controversy among astronomers and other scientists, and some have argued that Pluto should be reclassified as a planet. However, for now, Pluto is generally considered to be a dwarf planet by the scientific community. What is meant by clearing of celestial debris when looking at planets? Clearing celestial debris refers to a celestial body's ability to remove other objects from its orbit. In order to be considered a planet, a celestial body must meet certain criteria, including being spherical in shape and having cleared its orbit of other celestial debris. Celestial debris refers to any small pieces of rock, dust, or other material that are found in a celestial body's orbit. This can include asteroids, comets, and other small objects. The requirement for a celestial body to have cleared its orbit of other celestial debris is included in the definition of a planet because it is thought to be a sign of a celestial body's dominance in its orbit. In order to clear its orbit, a celestial body must be large and massive enough to gravitationally dominate its orbit and remove or deflect other objects from its path. The requirement for a celestial body to have cleared its orbit is one of the main criteria that separates planets from other types of celestial bodies, such as dwarf planets, which have not cleared their orbits of other celestial debris. How does a planet clear its celestial orbit? There are several ways in which a planet can clear its orbit of celestial debris. Some of the main mechanisms that can help a planet clear its orbit include: Gravitational perturbatio n: This refers to the gravitational influence that a planet has on other celestial bodies in its orbit. A planet that is large and massive enough can perturb the orbits of smaller celestial bodies, causing them to change direction or be ejected from the orbit. Collisions : A planet can also clear its orbit by colliding with celestial debris and breaking it up into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces can then be more easily removed from the orbit by the planet's gravitational influence or by other forces. Deflection : A planet can also clear its orbit by deflecting celestial debris away from its path. This can occur when celestial debris comes into contact with the planet's atmosphere or magnetic field, which can cause it to change direction or be deflected away from the orbit. What do you think? We started researching the Vredefort Dome and it opened a whole new world to us, from comets, to stars to dwarf planets, we thoroughly enjoyed it and we learnt a lot, have you been to the dome, if you did what can you tell us that was interesting to you? Site Links Accommodation and Places to Stay: Click Here Regional Events Calendar: Click Here Things to Do in and around Potchefstroom: Click Here

Here at the Go-To Guy we are passionate about helping our community, and one of the areas we have is that of Property Rentals, our aim to provide the most comprehensive information of properties in Potchefstroom and surrounding areas. In this article we look at a few tips to help you find your ideal rental apartment, here are our tips: Determine your budget: Before you start looking for a rental property, it's important to have a clear idea of how much you can afford to spend each month. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid wasting time looking at properties that are out of your price range. Also have a look at average prices you see in the market, this will give you a good idea on what level of rental property you would be able to secure. Do not forget that most rental companies and landlords will require some form of deposit, normally about one months rent, so you would have to budget for this as well. You would also normally be required to pay a fee to connect amenities such as water and electricity. And importantly do not forget that you will require a moving company, which you would also have to budget for. If you do require a moving company you can look at moving companies on The Go-To Guy at this link here: Moving Companies Make a list of your must-haves: Think about what you're looking for in a rental property and make a list of your must-have features. This might include things like location, number of bedrooms, and amenities. Having a list of your priorities will make it easier to filter out properties that don't meet your needs. Use a variety of resources: There are many different resources available for finding rental properties, including online listing sites, local newspapers, and real estate agents. Use a variety of resources to get a comprehensive view of what's available in your area. Here on The Go-To Guy you can view rental properties available on the market at this link here: Properties to Rent Look beyond the surface: When you're viewing a rental property, don't just focus on the surface-level details like paint colours and flooring. Pay attention to the layout, flow and condition of the property, as well as things like the condition of the appliances, the quality of the lighting and the condition of the bathroom and kitchen. Specifically ask and confirm the payment method for electricity and whether the purchase of electricity can be done at retailers, which is sold at published prices, or whether you are forced to buy at a specific agent/representative, which is normally at a higher price than the approved council rate, although not legal it is common to find this practice. Also determine the same for water and municipal services, including checking if there are any arrears as many tenants ended up receiving reduced electricity units due to debt outstanding to council being deducted from their electricity purchases. Check if there are any fees payable to complex or home owners associations and who would be responsible for this. Check out the neighbourhood: A rental property might look great on paper, but it's important to also consider the surrounding neighbourhood. Take a walk around the area to get a sense of the neighbourhoods safety, amenities, and overall vibe, be especially careful if you note that lawns are not maintained, overall rubbish on pavements, Be prepared to move quickly: Rental properties can move fast, so be prepared to act quickly if you find a property that you're interested in. Have your documents and deposit ready to go so you can move forward with the application process as soon as possible. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect rental property for you. It's important to keep in mind that finding the right rental property may take some time and effort, but it will be worth it in the end when you find a place that you love and can call home.

One of the most important people that you will employ in your home is not actually service providers such as Electricians, Plumbers or even Construction companies, its your domestic worker, yet when looking at Social Media ads for domestic workers these are normally one-lines such as "cleaner needed for my house" or "do you know any good domestic workers", this is in fact a far cry from what we should be saying in these ads looking for someone that could potentially work for us for years. You have Legal Responsibilities Traditionally the hiring and firing of Domestic workers was seen as a straight forward affair, you employed someone and if it did not work out then you just parted your ways, this however have changed and by law any domestic worker, which includes not just your home helper/cleaner/nanny, but also includes any baby sitters, Au pairs, gardeners, that works for you for more than 26 hours per month is considered a permanently employed worker, no matter if you pay them daily, monthly, even if they have multiple jobs, any job they have that exceeds these hours per month is considered permanent employment. This permanent employment status brings with it a set of legal responsibilities, such as having to register yourself as an employer on the Unemployment fund as an employer and having to deduct and pay UIF each month, registering the worker for Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COIDA) and having to pay a percentage of their annual salary each year to COIDA, failure to do any of these could land you in hot water so top speak as there are penalties as well as financial risks associated with ignoring these. This Person Becomes Part of Family Yet besides the above legal factors the domestic worker in most cases would form a trust and intimate relationship with your household, family members and would have access to your personal and private space, not to mention that you would be dealing with the individual on a personal and daily level, therefore it is actually incredibly important that you apply your mind to the employment process, and not just employ someone because another household said they are great, each household has its own dynamics. Take a practical example of someone with no children, a two bedroom house with automatic washing machines and tumble dryers that requires no ironing recommending a worker that would have to work in a house with manual washing, drying and ironing, may have small children in the house and may even have different belief systems than yours in terms of raising children, albeit that they may have been perfect in the one household you may find a complete different experience in the latter household, and you may have set yourself and the worker up for some tough times ahead. And as said before, if the relationship is not working then you have to go through very specific steps to terminate the said employment, which if not done to the letter of the law could see yourself in the unfortunate position of CCMA sessions and the frustrating experience such processes brings to bear. Importance of Following Structured Process It is therefore incredibly important that you structure a full job specification sheet, your specific requirements for your household, your expectations, and that you actually interview each applicant formally to make an informed decision prior to employing the worker, equally so it is important for the worker to understand if they are a fit for your household and family, especially since unhappiness at work leads to unhappiness in life in most cases, and for both parties in a non-functioning relationship this becomes an issue that is best avoided. We therefore strongly suggest that you apply your mind to this process, and we created tools specifically for this purpose on The Go-To Guy site that you could use, they are free tools that has no monetary charge and is aimed at helping both employer and employee as far as it relates to the defining of the job as well as some of the documents, such as employment agreements, that could be used. Some Tools to Use We have the following pages and tools you can use for this purpose: The Basic Domestic Job Board - This is a "Free Hand" and open forum space where you can write your ad in your own structure and words, which then appears for potential workers to view and apply. The system allows you to add either your contact details or requesting potential employees to respond to the add in the comments section, thus you can ask and engage with potential employees directly on the open forum prior to contacting them, should you not wish to provide contact details initially. You can access that page by clicking here.

Is February a good time of the year to look and apply for a new job ? The short answer is Yes, February is generally considered a good time of year to apply for a new job as many companies have new budgets and hiring plans for the upcoming year. Additionally, many people make career changes or job search in the new year, so companies may have more open positions to fill. Things to Keep in Mind: Timing: As mentioned earlier, February is a good time to apply for a job as many companies have new budgets and hiring plans for the upcoming year. Everybody is back in the office and settled in after the December holidays and returning to work in January. Try to apply as early as possible to demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for a position in your target company. Apply your mind to your Cover Letter: Studies have shown that the average recruiter scans a CV for 6 seconds, so your cover letter is critical, you need to bring across why your CV requires further reading in just a few seconds, else you end up at the bottom of the pile. Be prepared for competition: The job market can be competitive during this time, as many people have similar goals to find new employment. Make sure your application stands out by highlighting your qualifications and highlighting what makes you unique. Follow-up: If you don't hear back right away, don't be afraid to follow-up with the hiring manager. It's important to show your continued interest in the position. Research the company: Make sure you research the company and the role you're applying for. This will give you a better understanding of what they're looking for and how you can tailor your application to meet their needs. Networking: Networking is always important when looking for a job, but it can be especially useful in February when many people are looking for new employment. Leverage your personal and professional networks to learn about open positions and to make connections with hiring managers. But what about if there are no jobs advertised, how can i increase my chances of getting a job? The job market is indeed tough, and its not surprising to see hundreds of people arriving for a single advertised position, it is really tough, so what can you do to find yourself a job. Start with homework The first step that you need to do is homework, you need to identify companies in town that you believe will fit either your skillset or that you would like to work at for an extended period of time. This research needs to be intense, who are they, what do they do, what advertisements are they placing in the market, can you identify any potential need that you can fill? Write an impact cover letter Once you identified at least 5 companies, then you have to start writing a high impact cover letter, this letter would be the first thing that your targeted company will see, prior to looking at CV's, in fact very few companies even look at applicants that just sends a CV, your cover letter is critical. In this cover letter you need to attract the attention of the reader to indicate that you researched their company, why you find them interesting, stating that you believe you can add value and importantly very defined reasons why you believe you can add value. You also need to show credibility and trust in this cover letter, it is a fact that many small and medium businesses are very wary to employ people unless they absolutely have to, sad but true, they have a fear of employing a person that cannot do the work or would not be a good fit, and then having to go through a very frustrating process to terminate such a person. Therefore you need to capture the attention of the reader by having a short end statement on references of previous positions, and if you do not have then you need to state character references from someone you know. Do not forget to state your contact details, when you will be available and that you look forward to hearing from them. Here we placed an example of a cover letter, this letter is based on targeting a company that did no advertisements for any positions, and targeting a sales position, so its a cold call for a job... Example Cover Letter Dear [Insert Name] I researched your company recently as I have an immense interest to join your team, this based on the recent ads I saw where you advertised [Insert Product/Service] , sparking my interest further as I firmly believe that I can add commercial value to your company, at the least I think that a quick meet and greet would not be a waste of your time. In summary I think the three reasons it would be worthwhile to meet me and why I believe I can add value are as follows: Reason 1: State a concrete reason based on your research and how that matches a value that you can offer, an example would be something like this; Your product is aimed at the youth segment, I have built a comprehensive and loyal Instagram community over several years within this segment that I believe could be unlocked for value. Reason 2: Again state a concrete reason based on your research and how that matches to a value that you can offer, continuing on the above an example would be something like this; You have a high value product, therefore targeting the higher value segments in the market, I understand the segmentation approach to high value customers and have the drive to build a solid portfolio for the business in this segment. Reason 3: Similar to above the 3rd reason also needs to be based on your research and how that matches a value that you can offer, an example would be something like this; The business catchment area is in Potchefstroom, I understand the dynamics of the local market, and combined with my focused approach I believe I could increase the volumes within the area. I have a trustworthy and authentic character, as evidenced from my references which I can provide when we meet. I also have a strong commercial acumen and understand the importance of gross margin, volume targets and the actions required to meet targets, and I have strong drive to build a solid portfolio of profitable customers. I do understand the risk associated with employing a resource that could possibly not sail the ship, and the subsequent frustrations that could cause in a relationship, yet I assure you my intentions are positive and my value add ability concrete. Could I request that you consider my reaching out to you, allow me a few minutes of your time to meet you and to further firm up your confidence of my ability to add value to your business. Looking forward to hearing from you and please feel free to reach me either by phone or WhatsApp at [Insert Number] or by email [insert email], you are also most welcome to have a look at my social media profiles on facebook at [insert facebook URL] and my Instagram at [Insert Instagram], my full CV can be viewed here [Insert CV Link] Sincerely looking forward to hearing from you [Your Name] Note: Above is an example and you would have to adjust according to your targeted company, do make sure that you are honest in all your statements and that you are authentic in your approach, else your efforts will just lead to failure and not being able to secure any success. Tip: You can register a free online CV on The Go-To Guy at this link: Online CV Register Apply your mind to your phone style Companies may start calling you, and therefore you need to start thinking about your phone style... first step start answering your phone with a bit of "energy", especially since too many of us answer a phone thinking it may be a spam call :) You need to answer all your calls with an energetic "Hello" and then state your name... practice this > Hello! [Your Name] Speaking... You should by this time also have prepared for this call when it comes, have all your answers ready to have a confident conversation with the company calling, bring across a positive energy, do not just "chat" with no emotion, this call is as important as the cover letter. Review Your Facebook and Other Social Profiles It is a fact that most companies today go and view social media profiles of potential employees to view from a distance who they are talking to, and although your personal life should have no bearing on the job you do the reality is that by nature people are biased and they "read" things based on viewing people from a distance, in this case your Facebook page. It would be beneficial if you either go and review your profile and your posts, or if you go and set your profiles to be viewed only by friends and family. Do not forget your WhatsApp profile picture either, update this to be reflective of what you are trying to achieve, if you do not have a great picture then replace it with an avatar. Have a Web and WhatsApp CV Ready You need to have ready on your phone a short CV, and no we are not talking about the standard CV that is sent by hundreds of people to companies everyday, we are talking about an impactful short bio that you can send at any time, and if you can include your online profile/CV link in this short bio. Here is an example of a short WhatsApp Bio, based on the profile earlier mentioned in the Cover Letter Name: [Insert Name] Bio: Energetic, goal driven commercial sales person with a drive for profitable business in the higher value segments of the market, great influence in the youth segments and ability to drive and meet targets. Online CV Link: [Insert Link to Online CV/Linkedin Page] Tip: You can register a free online CV on The Go-To Guy at this link: Online CV Register In conclusion Jobs are truly scarce and it impacts us on so many levels, you need to stand out of the crowd, you need to add real value to a business and you need to put effort in at every level, yiur chances of success would greatly increase as a result. We hope that these few tips and information helps you to find that dream job! Resources The Go-To Guy General Job Board: Click Here The Go-To Guy CV Registration: Click Here Recruitment Agencies: Click Here

Hosting a successful fundraiser event is a great way to achieve your goals and make a difference. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute a successful event: Determine your goal: This will help guide all your decisions and keep you on track. Find the perfect venue: Look for a place that has enough space, is easily accessible, and has the necessary facilities. Consider the cost, amenities, and atmosphere, too. Pick a date and time: Choose a date that works for most people and doesn't clash with other events. Set a budget: Figure out how much money you need and how you'll make it. Make sure the budget is realistic and includes contingency plans. Choose a theme: A fun theme can create a great atmosphere and draw more people in. Get sponsors: Sponsors can provide financial support, donate items, and help promote your event. Make a guest list: Make sure to invite your target audience and potential donors. Plan the program: Decide on the events, activities, and entertainment you want to include. Spread the word: Use social media, email, flyers, and other promotional materials to get the word out. Get ready for the day of the event: Make sure you have everything you need and assign tasks to volunteers and staff. Evaluate the event: After it's over, take a look at how it went, what you can improve, and get feedback from attendees. When looking for a venue, these are the things you should keep in mind: Capacity: Make sure the venue has enough space for everyone and any activities you want to include. Accessibility : Check that the venue is easy to get to by car, public transportation, or other means. Facilities: Make sure the venue has restrooms, lighting, sound system, and everything else you need. Cost : Make sure the venue fits your budget and you understand any additional fees. Amenities : Make sure the venue has things like food and beverage service, Wi-Fi, and seating. Parking : Check if there's enough parking and if there's a cost. Versatility : Make sure the venue can be easily adapted to meet your needs. Climate control : Check that the venue has heating and cooling to keep people comfortable. Atmosphere : Make sure the venue matches the theme and mood of your event. When it comes to sponsors, you can: Research : Look for companies or organizations that match your goals and mission. Check their websites and social media to see if they've sponsored similar events. Network : Reach out to your friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances to see if they know of any potential sponsors. Direct outreach : Contact potential sponsors directly and explain your event and why their support matters. Use existing relationships: If you have existing relationships with companies or organizations, consider reaching out to them for sponsorship. Offer incentives : Give sponsors recognition and exposure, like advertising in your event materials or a speaking opportunity. To promote your event, you can: Use social media : Share your event on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to reach a wider audience. Reach out to the media : Contact local newspapers, radio stations, and TV stations to get more visibility. Work with sponsors and partners : Partner with local businesses and organizations to promote your event. Ask them to share it on their social media and include it Promote you event on The Go To Guy: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/events-region-nw-fs//

Here are some tips and strategies for building professional connections and finding job opportunities: Attend industry events and conferences: Meet people in your field and expand your network by attending conferences, trade shows, and other industry events. Engage online: Engage with relevant industry groups that you are targeting online through platforms such as LinkedIn , become part of the community and over a period you will start reaping the benefits. Volunteer: Volunteer for organisations and causes that interest you. Not only will you be giving back, but you'll also meet new people and make valuable connections. Ask for introductions: If you know someone who knows someone in your desired field, ask for an introduction. This can be a great way to meet new people and learn about job opportunities. Offer help: Be proactive in offering help to others in your network. If someone you know needs assistance with a project or job search, offer to help if you can. Stay in touch: Keep in touch with the people you meet. Send regular emails, LinkedIn messages, or make a call to catch up. Building and maintaining relationships takes time and effort, but it's worth it. Join professional organisations: Join professional organisations in your field. This can be a great way to meet new people and learn about job opportunities. Utilise job search engines: Utilise online job search engines such as The Go-To Guy Job board and LinkedIn Jobs to find job postings that match your skills and interests. Virtual events: Many events have gone virtual, including conferences, trade shows, and networking events. Look for virtual events in your industry and participate actively. Social Media: Utilise social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with others in your industry. Participate in industry-related discussions, share relevant content, and engage with others' posts. Video Calls: Reach out to people you would like to connect with and schedule a video call. This can be a great way to build relationships and learn about job opportunities. Professional organisations: Many professional organisations offer virtual events and resources for members. Join relevant organisations in your field and participate in their virtual events. Career fairs: Many career fairs have gone virtual. Look for virtual career fairs in your industry and make connections with employers and other professionals. Email outreach: Reach out to people in your network or people you would like to connect with via email. Introduce yourself, explain why you would like to connect, and offer to schedule a call. By following these strategies, you can build strong professional connections and increase your chances of finding job opportunities. When using The Go-To Guy Job Board or tools such as Linkedin what should I keep in mind? When using The Go-To Guy Job board or LinkedIn for job searching, here are a few things to look out for: Relevant job postings: Make sure the job postings you apply to are relevant to your skills, experience, and career goals. Company culture: Research the company culture of the organisations you are interested in. Look for information about the company's values, mission, and employee reviews on Glassdoor. Hiring process: Research the typical hiring process for the companies you are interested in. This can include things like pre-employment testing, multiple rounds of interviews, or online assessments. Keywords: Make sure your The Go-To Guy profile, LinkedIn profile and resume include relevant keywords for your desired role. This can help increase your visibility to potential employers. Random Contacts: Be aware of random organisations reaching out to you. Make sure they are legitimate before sharing personal information or applying to any jobs they may suggest. Salary expectations: Research the average salary range for the role you are interested in. Job requirements: Make sure you fully understand the job requirements before applying. If there is something you are unsure about, reach out to the hiring manager or recruiter to clarify. By keeping these things in mind when using LinkedIn and Indeed, you can increase your chances of finding a job that is a good fit for you and your career goals. Other Valuable Tips Create a shareable online profile: Create a professional profile here on The Go-To Guy and on Linkedin , then start engaging with your immediate environment and share your link to your profile page when you Connect with current and former coworkers, classmates, and other professionals in your field online and in the physical contact environment. Responding to a position advertised: Do not make the error to send a message stating only that you are interested, respond by briefly introducing yourself, stating that you would be interested in the position, briefly stating why you believe you are a good candidate for the specific job focusing on the key points the poster placed in the job ad, and how you could be contacted, end the response by thanking the person for possibly being able to have a discussion and that you are looking forward to hearing from them. If applicable mention that you do have references. Resources The Go-To Guy General Job Board: Click Here The Go-To Guy CV Registration: Click Here Recruitment Agencies: Click Here Linkedin Best Practices: Click Here

This weekend some believed that Potchefstroom is being invaded by aliens and UFO's, this as a result of a bright dotted line appearing in the night sky, looking like a little train of light moving at high speed, but don't worry we are still safe from alien invasion, these are in fact Starlink Satellites by Elon Musk's company named SpaceX Who is SpaceX SpaceX (Space Exploration Technologies Corp) is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company founded in 2002 by entrepreneur Elon Musk with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling the coloniSation of Mars. It designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. SpaceX is best known for its reusable Falcon 1, Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, and the Dragon spacecraft, which it developed to transport cargo and astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS). The company has made history with several key achievements, including the first privately-funded spacecraft to reach orbit, the first privately-funded spacecraft to dock with the ISS, and the first reusable spacecraft to return from low Earth orbit. In addition to its commercial launches, SpaceX has been contracted by NASA to provide crew and cargo transport services to the ISS, and is also working on developing its Starlink satellite internet constellation and Starship spacecraft for interplanetary travel. It is the Starlink satellites that you saw in the sky on Friday What is Starlink? Starlink is a satellite internet system operated by SpaceX, with its history dating back to the mid-1980s with the concept of low Earth orbit satellite constellations for internet and communication purposes. The project was publicly announced in 2015 and the satellite development facility was opened in Redmond, Washington. SpaceX began launching Starlink satellites in 2019 and as of December 2022, there are over 3,300 satellites in low Earth orbit. The company plans to deploy a total of 12,000 satellites, with the potential to expand to 42,000 In December 2022, SpaceX announced that it has over one million subscribers. The cost per unit of capability for the satellites will be much lower than existing satellites, with Elon Musk aiming to "revolutionize space" by mass-producing the satellites, as he did with rockets. The lower cost of smaller satellites is considered crucial for reducing the cost of space-based Internet and communication. Short history of Starlink 1990s: commercial mega-constellations using around 100 satellites, such as Celestron, Teledesic, Iridium, and Globalstar, were created but all went bankrupt partly due to high launch costs 2004: Larry Williams, former VP of Teledesic and SpaceX VP of strategic relations, established the SpaceX Washington DC office and SpaceX acquired a stake in Surrey Satellite Technology to extend the Internet into space 2014: Elon Musk and Greg Wyler reportedly planned a constellation of around 700 satellites called WorldVu, but plans fell through, and the constellation was later named Starlink and trademarked by SpaceX 2015: Starlink was introduced to the public, with the goal of providing up to 50% of all backhaul communication traffic and 10% of local Internet traffic in highly populated cities and generating revenue to fund SpaceX's Mars endeavors 2016-2017: SpaceX acquired facilities in Irvine, California and consolidated operations in Redmond Ridge Corporate Center for satellite manufacturing and R&D 2017: SpaceX submitted application to the FCC for a non-geostationary orbit satellite system and space debris mitigation plan and submitted plans for a Very-Low Earth Orbit constellation 2021: pre-orders for the public started and $3.5 billion was raised in equity financing to support the operational phase of Starlink 2022: regulatory approval was given in Canada, licenses for services for boats, aircraft, and moving vehicles approved, agreements were announced with Google Cloud Platform and Microsoft Azure 2022: Starlink Business service tier, Starlink For RVs, Starlink Maritime launched, but worldwide speeds decreased due to high demand, concerns raised over potential threat to national security Why can I see them so clearly? The satellites orbit low to the Earth, making them appear much brighter than any star and visible to the naked eye, even during twilight hours and in light-polluted urban areas. They are called "megaconstellations" for the way they form constellations, and they are visible because they reflect sunlight, not because they emit light themselves. Where are these Starlink satellites in space? Starlink satellites orbit at an altitude of 550 km. At that height, they’re low enough to get pulled down to Earth by atmospheric drag and burn up in a few years, so that they don’t become space junk once they die (a problem SpaceX may hope to tackle using Starship). Each one weighs 500 pounds (227 kg) and measures about the size of a typical coffee table, To spot the Starlink satellites in the sky, you can use astronomical applications such as Star Walk 2 and Findstar link . These applications provide up-to-date and accurate information on the position and trajectory of the satellites. In Satellite Tracker by Star Walk, the satellites will appear in the list of objects, and in Findstarlink, you can find them by entering where you are. With these apps, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Starlink satellites in the night sky and find them easily from your location. Starlink Controversy among Astronomers This brightness is great for us to see on the ground, yet the Astronomical SocietIes are not so happy as these bright reflections have the potential to disrupt observations of the night sky. The National Science Foundation and the American Astronomical Society released a report on the situation in August 2020. Discussions among more than 250 experts at the virtual Satellite Constellations 1 (SATCON1) workshop expressed concern that the bright train of satellites marching across the sky will hinder their observations. In response, SpaceX has begun outfitting their satellites with a blackened sunshade – called VisorSat – that the company hopes will reduce the satellite’s apparent brightness by reducing the amount of sunlight that’s reflected. Initial efforts at mitigating the spacecraft’s impact involved launching a prototype Starlink satellite later dubbed DarkSat in 2021, which featured a black antireflective coating. Ground-based observations of DarkSat in orbit found it half as bright as a standard Starlink satellite, which is a good improvement, according to experts, but still far from what astronomers say is needed. DarkSat was with a typical Starlink sibling using a two-foot (0.6-m) telescope at the Ckoirama Observatory in Chile and found that although DarkSat’s antireflective coating rendered it invisible to the unaided eye, it remained far too bright to avoid interfering with the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile – and other major telescopes. Additionally, DarkSat’s darker colour retains too much heat, so the company is sticking with the visor alternative for now instead. Conclusion The Starlink satellites are a promising solution for bringing high-speed and low-latency internet services to remote and rural areas. However, the astronomical community has expressed concern over the satellites' brightness and potential to disrupt astronomical observations. SpaceX has taken steps to mitigate these concerns by outfitting its satellites with In the interim we will see more of these UFO's crossing our sky and stare in amazement knowing that there is a South African behind not just Starlink, but also the plan to go to Mars

Buying a home is a big step, not just from a financial perspective, but more importantly from your day-today life perspective as well, and we put together some of the factors to consider when buying a new home. What can you afford and get financing for? For most South Africans the only way to buy property is through financing, this through specialised Bond companies or banks. Therefore prior to starting your search its important to look at the affordability factor and to get an insight on what the maximum is that you may be able to afford. Be careful not to consider the maximum as your target amount, you should take into consideration many other factors, and therefore aim to be below the maximum that you calculate as your affordability barrier, as an example a small change in interest fees can have a dramatic impact on your monthly repayments, if the interest rate goes down then thats great, yet if it goes up it could place significant pressure on your pocket. We indicate the effect of different interest rates for you in an Excel sheet we created and that you can download, the sheet contains a number of tools as referenced in this blog and can be found at the end bottom of the page. Here is what you need to consider when looking at the finance and budgeting factors. Bank Affordability Factor: South African Banks have to adhere to the National Credit Act, which places a value restriction on loan values allowed and granted by banks, typically this is about 30% of your gross monthly income before tax and expenses have been deducted, if you are a couple then your joint income will be taken into consideration. The bank will also calculate your ability to afford and repay the loan, this through looking at your net income (the money in your pocket after all deductions) less your monthly expenses, to arrive at a calculation of your disposable income, and based on this will calculate the loan amount you may qualify for. We placed a sheet at end of this Blog that you can download to calculate this value as a guide. Bond payments: Calculate the monthly bond payment based on the purchase price and interest rate, and consider how this fits into your monthly budget, we included a calculator for you in our sheet at the end of this article that you can use to calculate your monthly repayments at different exchange rates. Its important to understand that a slight change in Interest rate will impact your monthly repayments, so consider this factor carefully. Also most banks have different rates for different risk profile customers, thus if you have a good credit record, amongst other factors, you can negotiate your starting interest rate and you are strongly advised to do exactly this and to shop around for the best interest rate. Other fees that are part of buying a home Besides the bond and financing fees as mentioned above there are also some other fees that would become due and payable during the process, and its important that you are aware of these, allowing you to plan your cashflow and not be caught off guard when these fees become due. First its beneficial to understand the process of buying a home, which in general flow as follows: You engage a real estate agent to find a home or to enquire about a home you may have sen that is for sale. You look at the house and assuming that you are happy you sign an offer to purchase document, which is then also signed by seller as acceptance of the offer, this is a crucial step and allows you to start process of applying for home loan from the bank. The bank reviews the application, performs all their affordability and credit checks, and if all goes well the loan is approved and transfer process can start. The seller will then appoint a transferring attorney, which will then start the transfer process on behalf of the process, it is important to know that the buyer will be responsible for the transfer fees and we cover this later in this article. There will then be a process where the attorneys will have a number of documents to be signed by buyer and seller and during this process the attorneys will request a range of documents from you, mostly to follow SARS and FICA processes, you will then sign the documents as requested by attorneys. Transfer fees are then paid to the attorneys, this is called a conveyancing fee, which includes admin costs, these fees are paid by the buyer, the higher the value of the property the higher the fee that would be payable, its covered in more detail later in this section. Transfer duties are paid to SARS, the amount due is based on the value of the property. The transferring attorney then registers the documents at the deed office, this includes cancelling the old bond if applicable and registering the new bond. The deed is then registered and following a period of about two weeks for review purposes the transaction is registered and the buyer becomes the owner of the property. Transfer/Conveyancing Fees As referenced above the seller appoints a transferring attorney, this is to register the property from seller into the buyers name, and these fees would have to be paid in full before the home can be registered at the deeds office. To slightly increase the confusion that surfaces during transactions the bank will also appoint a conveyancing attorney if the transaction was financed via bond with bank, and buyer would also be invoiced for the banks attorney, this attorney is normally referred to as the "bond registration attorney". The registration of the deed and the bond happens at the same time. These transfer/conveyancing fees are done on a sliding scale, and although there are recommended fees, these conveyancing fees are negotiable and when making the offer to purchase you may want to check with seller, who appoints the transfer attorney, as to what the fees are and possibly get a quote for such fees. At the time of this article the typical conveyancing fees on a R1m home was at between R19,840 and R23,667, you can also find on most bond and bank websites a calculator that calculates these indicative fees for you. Transfer Duties calculation Transfer duties are payable to SARS. At the time of this article SARS referenced the transfer duties payable as follows: Beyond the financing fees and the relevant duties what other ongoing cost should be considered? When doing your budget and calculating your affordability barriers, you would also have to consider other costs that will become part of your calculation, these are as follows: Homeowner's insurance: Consider the cost of homeowner's insurance, this includes your actual structure, especially since the heydays of having life insurance covering your bond automatically being included in your financing agreement not being the case, so carefully look at the short terms and life insurance factors when buying a home. Some areas and home configurations, such as being next to an open veld, or not having surrounding walls can increase your short term insurance costs. Utilities: Research the cost of utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and internet, and factor this into your monthly expenses. Homeowner association (HOA) fees: If the property is part of a homeowner association, research the HOA fees and any associated rules and regulations. Maintenance Costs: Owning a home requires maintaining your home, and having funds available for regular maintenance as well as unforeseen breakages, a rough rule of thumb is to have at least 1% of the home value budgeted per year up to 4% on average, thus a R1m home would require between R10k to R40k per year for maintenance purposes. The other costs not to forget Besides the ongoing budget indicators above, you will also need to consider some other costs when buying a home, some of these are: Utility Activations: Changing ownership of a home also means that you would have to change the utility accounts at the local councils, and if your conveyancers did a good job this would be an administrative action requiring you to go down to your friendly and efficient local council :) to activate the utilities on your name. Moving costs: Moving home can be a frustrating experience and we forget how much stuff we have in many instances, and you would have to budget to have a moving company move your stuff, if you are a DIY person you may have to rent a trailer, bakkie or truck, keeping in mind that renting a trailer normally requires returning that trailer as well as "one way" rentals are difficult in the trailer renting industry. Other Costs: Carefully consider other costs that may come your way, if you are moving to a new town you may have to buy new school uniforms, creches may require a deposit paid upfront, cleaning costs of the home your moving to as well as the home you moving from, painting costs to get the colour scheme to your liking, new curtains as your old curtains may not be the same size, and you may have to stay in guesthouses and hotels if you are moving to a new town while house hunting, these are some examples that you may need to think of. You are financed, you budgeted and you looked after all the costs, now what? The first step is to start putting together a detailed picture of the home you want, and if you have done all the homework you should have a very good idea of your target price range, which will be of great help as you start looking at homes, either through an agent or local media channels. Our suggestion is that you start building a written list of all your requirements, ranging from the type of house you want, the size, the garden requirements, covering all your bases in order to aid your search as well as saving you time when requesting and briefing your estate agent to find you your ideal home. Here are some of the points that you should consider when starting your search and your list of requirements, again we stress the importance of having a written list of your requirements, the more time you spend on fine tuning this list the more effective you will be in your search and finding your ideal home, now lets get to the list: Location: here is a list of points to ponder and place on your sheet Proximity to amenities: Consider the distance to schools, shopping centres, restaurants, public transportation, and entertainment options. This will affect your daily life and can impact property value. Neighborhood: Research the surrounding neighbourhood, including the crime rate, quality of schools, and local amenities. Walk or drive around the neighbourhood to get a feel for the area and speak to neighbours if possible. Zoning and land use: Research the local zoning and land use regulations to ensure the property is in compliance and to understand any potential restrictions or future development plans in the area. Traffic patterns: Observe the traffic patterns in the area during different times of day to get a sense of the level of congestion and noise. Future development plans: Research any future plans for development in the area, such as new roads, shopping centres, or housing developments, to understand their potential impact on the area and property values. Resale value: Consider the potential resale value of the property and research recent home sales in the area to understand market trends and property values. Accessibility: Consider the ease of access to the property, including proximity to major roads and highways. Family and Social Factors: How often would family visit, children especially once they are not at home anymore, is the roads safe from their home to your new home, are their doctors close-by if you have health issues, these are some of the factors to consider. Home type and design: here is a list to ponder and place on your sheet, Structure: Decide the type of home you are looking for, such as a single-family home, townhouse, or complex. Size and layout: Consider the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as the overall size and layout of the home. Do not forget your kitchen requirements such as type of stove (gas, electric, eye level oven) built in cupboards, need for washing machine and dishwasher plumbing. Storage space requirements: Often overlooked this could be a real comfort when you have a lot of stuff to store, or when hubby has a lot of tools and equipment he likes to keep organised. Work from home: If you work from home your list may include space for a small office, reliable fibre internet connectivity, access door for your clients that may visit. for things like your tools Plot/Yard size and garden: Consider the size of the plot and whether it meets your needs for outdoor living, gardening, or entertaining, including the garden, the maintenance of the garden and whether it meets your green fingers. Do you want a pool, what size should it be, should their be an outdoor braai Future plans: Consider any future plans, such as starting a family, adding a room, or making home improvements. Parking/Garage Requirements: Consider the requirement and space for parking for your and visitor vehicles. Infrastructure: With Eskom issues and threatening water issues you may want to jot down the requirements for solar, generators, JoJo tanks, boreholes and the likes in your requirements. Tip: Look at ads in the media and make notes of things that you see and that remind you of factors that you require on your list, its a great "brain-toggler" and will assist you to jot down points especially within your price range reference. Things to consider when going looking at specific homes with your agent A critical factor in todays modern world is to determine if the home you are buying has tenants in the home that is renting, and what the status of such lease is, you need to make it absolutely clear in your offer to purchase that your offer to purchase is only valid should these tenants vacate the premises in accordance with the lease, or you should have clauses in agreements that seller carries all costs if tenants cannot be evicted after lease expiration, as well as clause that you as buyer can claim occupational rent from seller in such a case. Keeping in mind that any lease agreement will supersede the buying agreement, the principle is known as "Huur gaat voor koop", in other words if a lease is in place then you as new owner would have to adhere to that lease agreement and you may not just decide to cancel their lease, there are cases on record of buyers getting the nightmare of not being able to evict tenants and having to go through a long , lengthy, frustrating, legal and expensive process to have these tenants evicted. Age and Condition: Evaluate the age and condition of the home, including any necessary repairs or renovations. Especially if older home, this includes roof, plumbing Neighbour Factors: Check for things that may disrupt your dream home and life completely, thing that may seem small issues can lead to great frustration, tree overhangs from neighbours can cause immense arguments, privacy factors such as low walls to neighbour which neighbour refuses to allow raising of such walls and do not assume that you could raise such walls when the home is yours, there are regulations that may hamper such assumptions and your new neighbour may have objections Neighborhood: Research the neighbourhood, including the crime rate, school district, and community amenities. Its a good sign if you see children in the street, people jogging and walking in the evenings. Homeowner's association: If applicable, research the homeowner's association and its rules and regulations, especially related to keeping of pets, working from home, improvements you may want to make, common areas, a good reference may be to look at the minutes from previous meetings, you will hate to buy a home and discover something that really messes up your day. View: Evaluate the view from the property, including any potential obstructions or distractions. Utilities and Infrastructure: Research the cost and availability of utilities, including water, gas, electricity, and internet. Open the taps when you isit home, feel if water is warm from faucets, check water pressure, check shower pressure, flush the toilet, You need to look at the home design and look at the home infrastructure, its more important than doing checks on 2nd hand cars as the investment in your home is your investment for an extended period and is your place to go to, its your castle and your lifestyle, be vigilant Zoning and building codes: Research the zoning and building codes for the area to ensure the property meets your needs and is compliant with local regulations, including checking the structures against approved plans at council, include these in your purchase agreements as well with specific recourse clauses if found to be non compliant or not matching approvals. Resources Conveyancing Attorneys in Potchefstroom: Click Here View Available Properties in Potchefstroom for Sale on The Go-To Guy: Click Here View Available Properties to Rent in Potchefstroom on The Go-To Guy: Click Here Get in Contact with Estate Agents in Potchefstroom: Click Here Creches, Schools and Tutoring in Potchefstroom: Click Here Guesthouses, Hotels and Self Catering: Click Here Downloads Download our Bond and Affordability Calculator: Below

We all know that trees are an important part of our environment. They help to purify the air we breathe and provide us with shade and shelter from the sun and wind. However, there are times when trees need to be felled/removed, either because they are diseased or pose a danger to people or property. This is where arborists come in We all know that trees are an important part of our environment. They help to purify the air we breathe and provide us with shade and shelter from the sun and wind. However, there are times when trees need to be felled, either because they are diseased or pose a danger to people or property. This is where arborists come in. Arborists are trained professionals who specialise in the care of trees. They are able to assess whether a tree is healthy or not, and whether it needs to be removed. If a tree does need to be removed, they will fell it in a way that minimises damage to surrounding property and ensures the safety of people and animals. If you have a tree on your property that you think may need to be removed, it's best to consult with an arborist. They will be able to give you expert advice on what needs to be done. Here are a few things to consider when choosing an arborist for tree felling or crown reduction services: - Are they insured and trained? - Do they have a good reputation? - How much experience do they have? - Do they use the latest equipment and techniques? By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to find the right tree felling or crown reduction professional for your needs, and sometimes you may witness them getting a wild ride, like the guy in the video below:

Spruce up your home this spring with a beautiful garden! In this article, we'll give you some tips and ideas on what to plant and how to take care of it. Flowers Looking to add some colour to your home’s landscaping? Flowers are a great way to do it! But before you head to the nursery, there are a few things you should consider. Here are some tips for choosing the right flowers for your garden. First, think about what kind of look you’re going for. Do you want something formal or informal? What colours do you want to use? Once you have an idea of the overall look, you can start narrowing down your choices. Next, consider the climate in your area. Some flowers are better suited for warmer climates, while others can handle cooler temperatures. Make sure to choose varieties that will thrive in your area. Finally, think about how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Some flowers require more care than others. If you’re not up for spending a lot of time on upkeep, choose low-maintenance varieties. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start shopping for flowers! Just remember to take your time and choose varieties that will work well in your garden. Fruits and vegetables If you're looking to add some freshness to your home, why not start a garden? Growing your own fruits and vegetables is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy some time in the sun. Plus, you'll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor all year long! Here are a few tips to get you started: Choose the right location. Make sure you have enough space for the type of garden you want to create. You'll also need to make sure the area gets plenty of sunlight. Prep the soil. This step is crucial for a healthy garden. Be sure to till the soil and add any nutrients or amendments that might be necessary. Start small. Don't try to grow too much at once. It's better to start small and expand your garden as you become more comfortable with the process. Water regularly. One of the most important aspects of gardening is making sure your plants get enough water. Be sure to check on them regularly and water them as needed. Harvest often. Fruits and vegetables taste best when they're fresh off the vine (or tree). So don't be afraid to harvest often! Herbs Herbs are a great addition to any garden and can add flavour to your meals. But did you know that herbs can also be used for medicinal purposes? Here are some tips on growing and using herbs: Start with small plants or seeds. Basil, mint, oregano, and thyme are easy to grow from seed. Plant herbs in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Water herbs regularly, but don't overdo it. Too much water can rot the roots. Harvest your herbs when they're young and tender for the best flavour. Cut off the leaves just above where new leaves are growing. Dry or freeze excess herbs for future use. Hang bunches of herbs upside down in a dry, dark place or put them in freezer bags and store in the freezer. Landscaping If you're looking to add some curb appeal to your home, landscaping is a great way to do it! Check out our blog for some garden ideas and tips to get you started. From choosing the right plants for your climate to designing a layout that fits your space, we've got you covered. Container gardens Looking for a way to add some greenery to your home without a lot of hassle? Container gardens are a great option! Here are a few tips to get you started: Pick the right container. Make sure it has drainage holes and is the right size for the plants you want to put in it. Fill it with quality potting mix. This will help your plants thrive. Choose plants that will do well in containers. Some good options include succulents, herbs, and annual flowers. Water regularly and fertilise as needed. Your plants will need extra care in hot weather or if they’re in a sunny spot. With a little bit of planning, you can have a beautiful and thriving container garden! Indoor gardens Adding an indoor garden to your home is a great way to add some life and colour to your space. Here are a few tips to get you started: Choose the right plants. Not all plants do well indoors, so it’s important to do your research before you buy. Some good options for indoor gardens include succulents, air plants, and tropical plants. Find the right location. When choosing a spot for your indoor garden, make sure it gets enough light. Most plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, so a windowsill or sunny corner is usually a good choice. Get creative with containers. You don’t have to use traditional pots and planters for your indoor garden. Get creative and repurpose things like coffee mugs, baskets, or even old shoes as planters. Just make sure whatever you use has drainage holes so your plants don’t get too wet. Don’t forget about watering. One of the most common mistakes people make with indoor gardens is overwatering their plants. Be sure to check the soil before watering and only give your plants as much water as they need Maintenance and care The garden is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, but it does require some maintenance and care to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips to help you keep your garden in top condition: Regularly check for weeds and remove them as soon as they appear. Trim hedges and bushes regularly to keep them looking neat. Prune dead or dying foliage from plants to encourage new growth. Water plants regularly, especially during hot weather. Fertilise plants every few weeks to promote healthy growth. By following these tips, you can maintain a beautiful garden that will be the envy of your neighbourhood.

We have all been there, ants all over, flies driving us crazy, cockroaches appearing and giving us nightmares or some other animals that we may be afraid of encroaching our personal space, we put together some pointers on how to deal with these pests as well as some general other pointers. Let's start with ants... Ants, Interesting Stuff Ants have a cosmopolitan distribution and is found on all continents except Antartica with more than 13,800 known species globally, most being brown or black, but a few species are green and some tropical species have a metallic colour. Like other insects, ants have an exoskeleton, an external covering that provides a protective casing around the body and a point of attachment for muscles, in contrast to the internal skeletons of humans and other vertebrates. Insects do not have lungs; oxygen and other gases, such as carbon dioxide, pass through their exoskeleton via tiny valves called spiracles. Insects also lack closed blood vessels; instead, they have a long, thin, perforated tube along the top of the body (called the "dorsal aorta") that functions like a heart, and pumps haemolymph toward the head, thus driving the circulation of the internal fluids. The nervous system consists of a ventral nerve cord that runs the length of the body, with several ganglia and branches along the way reaching into the extremities of the appendages Ants as other insects seems to spread the world away from their natural or origin habitat, creating invasive species in many instances, and as extracted from paper by James K Wetterer "Tramp ants are species that associate with humans and are spread by human commerce. They travel the world hidden in our plant products, packaging material, building supplies, and heavy machinery such as logging and military equipment. For the most part, tramp ants thrive only in disturbed environments and do not penetrate intact natural habitats. But as humans and their disturbance spread, so do the tramp ants. The ecological importance of most tramp ant species remains undocumented. Several species, how-ever, are known to have dramatic impacts" All ants begin as eggs, fertilised eggs become female and all unfertilised eggs become male ants. Young ants emerge from these eggs as worms (larvae). The better fed and larger a female ant becomes the greater the chance of becoming a queen, as strong female ants will develop wings that will allow them to fly off and start their own colony. All ants are social, so if you find one you can rest assured that you will find others from the same colony nearby, and most of the ants that you do see will in all likelihood be female as the workers are mostly female, whilst the males have a very short life, starting with life in the nest and being fed and pampered each day, then leaving and finding a female to mate with or breeding with the queen, after such mating they cannot care for themselves and then they die. Some of the ants that cares for the queen can have a life of 20 years of working for and caring for the queen, and indeed although most common ants you see have a lifespan from a few weeks to a few years there have been studied cases of a queen lifespan reaching 30 years. An important part of ants behaviour when it gets to ants pest control is that they They use biochemical pheromones to mark the shortest path that can be taken from the nest to a food source. When a sizeable number of workers follows this trail, the strength of the cue increases and a foraging trail is established. There are more than 550 species of ants in South Africa and if you have an interest to get to know the different types we suggest clicking here and you will be directed to an ant haven of information, yet for purposes of pest control at home you thankfully only need to know about a few of them, and we cover some of these below. The Pavement Ant (Tetramorium caespitum) You can easily spot the presence of Pavement ants through the small heaps of soil present on pavements, sidewalks and driveways, and unlike popular believe that these moulds of soil is sand dug out through ant tunnels underground, the ants are in fact placing the sand and soil in the sun to heat up and to take the heated soil back at night into their nests to warm up the eggs and larvae. There are also winged versions of this ant that resembles a termite and indeed many consider them as termites in this form. Due to these moulds of soil aiding nest production a good practice of self pest control is to regularly sweep away these soil heaps to counter production in the ant nests. Pavement ants loves your pet food, so it is important to store your pet food in a manner, such as in plastic containers, to counter allowing a feeding ground to develop from your pets favourite pellets or other forms of pet food, in that way you will minimise having a take-out source for these little mongrels. Argentine Ant ( Linepithema humile) This specie of ant originated from Argentina and is now found in the Western Cape, Free State, Gauteng and Northern Cape, tales of import to South Africa includes having come here with fodder that were imported for British horses during the Anglo Boer war, yet evidence suggests that they have been around since 1750. These ants are a threat to indigenous ants that form an important part of our ecosystem and as a result their presence threatens natural plants, especially the fynbos species. These ants are incredible fighters and in battle with other ants, even defeating large ants such as our incredible 20mm Camponotine ant, this as a result of their ability to squirt a disabling substance on their enemies, they also spread through nest-budding, where the mated queen runs with the workers to any good food source and thus establishing branches from the parent colony, and this allowed the spread of this specie across the world in especially areas are that are not very humid. Carpenter Ant (Camponotus sp) This ant nests inside wood and chews cavities with their mandibles, unlike termites however they do not consume wood and discards the materials it what looks like sawdust, they even hollow out trees as a result. This ant is a threat to wooden buildings and structures and is a major cause of structural damage. In nature they fill the role of assisting in forest decomposition, whilst in suburban areas this could cause damage to man built structures, hence the pest definition applied to these ants. They normally reside in moist, decaying or hollow wood, thus at residences with wooden windows, decks and porches these ants could infect these areas around when moisture is present. They love sugary liquids such as honey, syrup and juices. An interesting point of this specific specie is that in some Southeast Asian countries these ants are called exploding ants as they have greatly enlarged mandibular glands that run the entire length of their body, and through autothysis (suicidal altruism is the process where an animal destroys itself via an internal rupturing or explosion of an organ which ruptures the skin) they rupture their body in suicidal fashion, spraying toxic substances from their head, which entangles and immobilises all nearby victims. Pharaoh Ant (Monomorium pharaonis) Definitely not an ant that you want close to a hospital as the danger exists that these ants have been reported to carry many potentially pathogenic bacteria (Pathogenic bacteria are bacteria that can cause disease) on their bodies due to their foraging habits, yet that is exactly where these ants can be found as they constantly look for protein feed. These ants are also called a cryptogenic specie, which is a specie whose origins are unknown. This is an ant that do not tolerate colder environments, hence you are bound to find them mostly indoors, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. If you have outdoor lights at your house you may find these nests close-by as these ants then target dead and dying insects in these areas. These ants are also believed to wash themselves when they enter the nest/cell, as well as after a long feed. It is believed that this washing has a hygienic value and keeping the nest clean, staving off disease and disorder. When fighting this ant it is important not to disturb the foraging trials created by the ants, as this will cause nest budding, which is when the queen ant and her workers will leave the nest and then form a new site elsewhere, it is thus better to place protein based baits along these trials so that the baits are taken to the nest and which will aid in eliminating the colony. Acrobat Ant (Crematogaster spp.) This ant has the ultimate stomach shape, that of a heart, and they are referred to as the Saint Valentine ant, they are also referred to at times as the cocktail ant because of their habit of raising their abdomens when alarmed. These ants are predatory in behaviour and will hunt prey such as wasps, grasshoppers and termites. When they attack a prey they will sting the prey with venom and during this attach release an alarm pheromone to alert other workers that prey has been seized, these workers will then assist to spread-eagle the prey, and carry the prey to their nests, normally found in trees. Big-Headed Ant (Pheidole megacephala.) The African big-headed ant tends to be a sap-sucking insect, making it a pest in many agricultural areas throughout the world. The workers can also damage fruit and plant roots directly. African big-headed ants can be a serious pest in buildings, forming large colonies where food scraps are available. It is an aggressive specie that can form large colonies and is a globally distributed ant specie, the origin of the specie remains unknown however several citing's are made that the specie originated from Africa This ant is a well known indoor and agricultural pest, and it commonly nest inside buildings and feeds on human foodstuffs, they have been reported to attack and chew through electrical wires, communication cables and irrigation tubing. Odorous House Ant (Tapinoma sessile) This ant is also called the sugar ant, stink ant (due to smell they release if crushed) and coconut ant. Their colonies consists of multiple nrsts each containing multiple reproducing queens. They are found in diverse habitats and houses and they feed on honeydew, floral nectar and sugary foods. Not much is known on the lifespan of these ants, with some sources referring to 8 months for the queen and males living approximately one week, they are tough buggers with some workers witnessed continuing living and working albeit with visible injuries, they seem to be highly tolerant to heat and cold and once established in a home they are difficult to remove. Interestingly it seems that food allocation is done to the queens in a dominance hierarchy as researchers identified queens getting different allocations of food, more should that queen be higher in such hierarchy. Their habitat inside houses included being closed to heat sources or in insulation and nests have been found in house plants and even in the lids of toilets. Removing Ants - DIY Pest Control It is recommended that you carefully study and identify which ants you have that may be infesting your home, as each may have a different method required to combat and remove/eradicate, therefore a professional pest removal company may be your best bet, especially if you are dealing with a heavy infestation. For DIY pest control we have collected a few tips that you could possibly use at your house and home, these are as follows: Baby Powder: Some people strongly feel that baby powder sprinkled in places where you may find ants works wonders, and claiming that the ants are suffocated by the talc powder particles, yet this is not actually true, and although baby powder seems to be a deterrent we are not quite sure why Vinegar: White vinegar is a cheap way to get rid of ants. Use 50/50 water and white vinegar to wipe hard surfaces and to wash your floors with. Black Pepper: The smell of black or red pepper irritates ants. Sprinkle the pepper around baseboards and behind appliances. Peppermint: A mixture of peppermint and tea tree oil is a natural repellent for ants. Saturate cotton balls with the mixture and place them around the house. Lemon: Lemon juice and lemon rinds can also be used to get rid of ants. Spray lemon juice in areas where the ants are active or wash hard subsurface and floors with water and some lemon juice. Place the lemon rinds in cupboards. Chalk: Chalk is another home remedy to get rid of ants. Draw a line with the chalk at the entrance of each room, or spray powdered chalk in the areas that they enter. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is regarded as an effective ant control option; the smell repels the ants. Place the cinnamon at the entrances of your house. What about Ant Traps for Pest Control Many people believe that an Ant trap actually traps ants inside the ant trap, and while the word ant trap seems to suggest doing exactly that it is not actually a trap. In reality the ants are invited through food bait inside the trap and then to carry this back to their nests which then kills the colony through this poisoned bait.

Whether you want to block out the light or heat of the sun, add privacy to your home, or create a beautiful focal point in your room, there is an easy solution: blinds and curtains! This article will explore 10 things to consider when choosing these window treatments. Consideration Number One: Style There are many things to consider when choosing blinds and curtains. The first thing to consider is the style of the window treatments. Do you want something that is simple and functional? Or do you want something that is more decorative? There are many different styles of blinds and curtains to choose from, so it is important to decide what you are looking for before you start shopping. Another thing to consider is the material of the blinds or curtains. Some materials are better at blocking out light than others. If you need to block out a lot of light, then you will want to choose a material that is thick and opaque. If you just want to add a bit of privacy to your home, then you can choose a lighter material. Finally, you will need to decide on a budget for your window treatments. Blinds and curtains can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you do not overspend. Consideration Number Two: Light and Privacy The amount of light you want in your room and the level of privacy you need are the two main considerations when choosing between blinds and curtains. curtains can be made of a variety of materials that allow different amounts of light to pass through. For example, sheer curtains let in a lot of light, while blackout curtains block out most light. You should also consider how easy it is to open and close the curtains. If you need privacy, you may want to choose curtains that can be pulled closed tightly. Consideration Three: Window size When it comes to choosing the right size curtains or blinds for your window, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is the size of your window. Obviously, the curtains or blinds you choose need to be big enough to cover the entire window. But you also need to make sure they are not too big. If they are too big, they will look out of proportion and make your window look smaller. The second thing to consider is the height of your window. If you have a tall window, you will need to choose a longer pair of curtains or a taller blind. If you have a short window, you can choose a shorter pair of curtains or a blind that does not come down all the way to the floor. The third thing to consider is the amount of light you want to let in. If you want to let in a lot of light, you will need to choose a lighter-colored fabric or material for your curtains or blinds. If you want to block out most of the light, you will need to choose a darker-colored fabric or material. All of these things need to be taken into account when choosing the right size curtains or blinds for your Consideration Four: Budget If you're on a tight budget, blinds are usually the cheaper option. Curtains can be quite expensive, depending on the material and style you choose. However, curtains can last longer than blinds if they're made from high-quality materials. If you have a bit more to spend, curtains may be the better option. Curtains can add a touch of luxury to your home, and they can also help to insulate your home better than blinds. Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose blinds or curtains comes down to personal preference and budget. Consider all of your options carefully before making a decision. Consideration Five: Durability When it comes to choosing blinds and curtains, durability is an important consideration. You want to choose a product that will last for many years to come. One way to determine the durability of a product is to look at the warranty. Many companies offer long warranties on their products, which is a good indication that they are confident in their durability. Another way to assess durability is to read online reviews. Look for reviews from people who have owned the product for a long time and see what they have to say about its longevity. In general, blinds tend to be more durable than curtains. This is because they are made from stronger materials and are less likely to tear or fade over time. However, there are some high-quality curtains on the market that can also withstand years of use. When it comes to choosing between blinds and curtains, durability is an important consideration. Conclusion There are a lot of things to consider when choosing blinds and curtains, but hopefully this article has helped you narrow down the most important factors. Blinds and curtains can make a big difference in your home, so it’s important to take your time and find the perfect option for you. With so many different styles, materials, and sizes to choose from, there’s sure to be an option that’s perfect for your home.

Do you need Gas in Potchefstroom, and have you wondered about the different gas cylinders you get, we put together a small explainer for you below Different Types of Gas Bottles When it comes to gas bottles, there are a few different types that are common in South Africa. These include LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and LN2 (Liquid Nitrogen). Each type of gas has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs. LPG is the most common type of gas used in South Africa. It's affordable and easy to find, making it a good choice for those on a budget. However, it can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure you read the safety instructions carefully before using LPG. CNG is a less common type of gas, but it has a few advantages over LPG. It's cleaner burning, so it's better for the environment. It's also more efficient, so you'll get more use out of each tank. However, CNG can be more expensive than LPG. LN2 is the least common type of gas used in South Africa. It's very cold and can be used to cool things down quickly. However, it can be dangerous if not used correctly and is also very expensive. Make sure you read the safety instructions carefully before using LN2. What is the right gas bottle size for you? Looking for the right gas bottle size for your home in South Africa? Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right one! 5kg Gas Bottle: The 5kg gas bottle is the smallest option available (outside of the small camping cylinders), and it's perfect for households that only use gas for occasional cooking or heating. It's also a good choice for camping trips or other outdoor adventures you have a small home with only a few appliances, a 9kg gas bottle should be enough. For a larger home with more appliances, or if you use gas for cooking, heating and hot water, a 19kg gas bottle will be better. If you have a very big home or use gas for commercial purposes, you'll need an 48kg gas bottle. When it comes to choosing the right gas bottle size for your needs, it's important to consider both the capacity and the pressure. Gas bottle sizes in South Africa are typically designated by their capacity in liters. However, the pressure of the gas is also an important factor to consider. For example, a 9kg gas bottle has a capacity of 9 liters but a low-pressure rating of only 0.8 bars. This makes it ideal for small appliances such as heaters and cookers that don't require a lot of pressure. On the other hand, a 14kg gas bottle has a capacity of 13.6 liters but a high-pressure rating of 2.1 bars. This makes it better suited for larger appliances such as stoves and grills that need more pressure to operate properly. Tags and Links: Gas supplier in Klerksdorp Gas supplier in Potchefstroom. Gas supplier near me Gas Cylinder Refill

People are incredibly confused in terms of the alternative energy systems they could use at their homes during power outages in South Africa, this as a result of the State Owned Entity known as Eskom announcing that there would be rolling blackouts, also known as load shedding in South Africa for at least the next two to three years. The effect is that people are exploring options such as solar energy, batteries, inverters, generators. Here The Go-To Guy we looked at the most basics of alternative energy solutions for homes and explain each option clearly and in a manner that the average person on the street will understand. What are the alternative energy solutions for homes during power outages in South Africa? Solar Energy: This involves installing solar panels on the roof of your home to convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity generated can be used to power your home during the day and stored in batteries for use during power outages. Batteries: This is a backup power solution that stores energy generated from solar panels or from the grid when it's available, for use during power outages. Inverters: An inverter converts DC (direct current) electricity generated by solar panels or batteries into AC (alternating current) electricity, which is the type of electricity that is used in most homes. Generators: A generator is a backup power source that runs on fuel, such as petrol, diesel or gas, to generate electricity during power outages. It is a portable solution but requires refuelling and maintenance. In summary, these alternative energy solutions can help provide power during power outages, with solar energy being a long-term, sustainable option and batteries, inverters, and generators being shorter-term solutions. What are the key components if solar is explored? The key components of a solar energy system for a home include: Solar Panels: These are the main component that converts sunlight into electricity. Inverter: As mentioned earlier, this converts DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used in the home. Batteries: Optional but recommended for storing excess electricity generated by the solar panels for use during power outages. Charge Controller: This regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries to ensure that they are not overcharged. Mounting System: This is used to securely mount the solar panels on the roof or ground. Wiring: This connects the various components of the system together. These are the main components of a basic solar energy system for a home. Additional components may be required depending on the specific needs and requirements of the homeowner. How many solar panels will I require? The number of solar panels required for a home will depend on several factors, including: Energy consumption: How much electricity do you use on a daily basis? This will determine the size of the solar panel system you will need. Roof size and orientation: The amount of available space on the roof and its orientation will affect the number of solar panels that can be installed. Climate: The amount of sunlight in your area will impact the size of the system you need. As a rough estimate, a typical residential solar panel system can range from 4 to 16 panels, each producing around 300 to 400 watts of power. So, for a typical home using 8,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year, you may need a system with a capacity of 2 to 4 kilowatts (kW). It's recommended to consult a solar energy professional to determine the exact number of panels needed for your specific home and energy usage. They will perform a site assessment and calculate the precise energy requirements to recommend the right system size for you. Could I use batteries that are charged during power available periods and then when power is cut then I use the batteries to power my home? Yes, you can use batteries charged during periods when power is available to provide backup power during power outages. This is known as a battery backup system. The battery stores excess energy generated from your solar panels or from the grid when it's available, for use during power outages. When the grid power goes out, the battery will automatically switch to provide power to your home, and the inverter will convert the stored DC electricity into AC electricity for use in your home. This solution provides a reliable source of backup power during power outages, but it's important to note that battery technology can be expensive, and the batteries will need to be replaced over time. It's also essential to choose the right size battery to match your energy consumption, so that the battery can provide enough power to meet your needs during an outage. So what can you tell me about batteries and what size batteries would I require to power an ordinary home with about 8 rooms with lights of about 60 watt, an average television set, my wifi router? To determine the size of the battery required to power an ordinary home with 8 rooms and typical appliances like lights, a TV, and a Wi-Fi router, you need to consider the following: Energy consumption: You need to know the total daily energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Battery capacity: Batteries are rated in kilowatt hours (kWh), and you will need to choose a battery with enough capacity to meet your daily energy needs during an outage. Duration of the power outage: You'll also need to consider how long the power outages are expected to last, as this will affect the size of the battery you will need. As a rough estimate, a typical 60W light bulb uses approximately 0.06 kWh per hour, and a typical TV uses around 0.3 kWh per day. For a home with 8 rooms, you may have 8 x 60W lights, which will consume approximately 0.48 kWh per day. Adding the TV, Wi-Fi router, and other small appliances, the total daily energy consumption may be around 1.5 kWh. If power outages are expected to last for 4 hours a day, then you may need a battery with a capacity of around 6 kWh to provide enough power to last during an outage. However, this is just an estimate, and it's recommended to consult a battery specialist to determine the exact size of battery you will need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned earlier. Why do I need an inverter?, and taking the above power consumption into consideration how big should my inverter be, also explain to me what I should take into consideration when buying an inverter An inverter is an essential component in a battery backup system, as it converts the stored DC electricity from the battery into AC electricity that can be used in your home. To determine the size of the inverter you need, you'll need to consider the following: Energy consumption: You need to know the total energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Peak load: You need to consider the highest amount of power that will be needed at any one time, known as the peak load. For example, if you have an air conditioner that requires 2kW of power, then you'll need an inverter that can handle that peak load. Efficiency: It's important to choose an inverter with a high efficiency rating to ensure that you get the most out of your battery. When choosing an inverter, you should also consider the following factors: Type: There are two main types of inverters, standalone and grid-tied. Standalone inverters are used for backup power during power outages, while grid-tied inverters are used to feed excess energy back into the grid. Output power: The output power of the inverter should be equal to or higher than your total energy consumption during an outage. Battery compatibility: Ensure the inverter is compatible with your battery technology. Warranty: Look for an inverter with a good warranty to provide peace of mind. Brand reputation: Consider the brand reputation of the inverter and look for reviews and ratings from other users to help you make an informed decision. It's recommended to consult an inverter specialist to determine the exact size and type of inverter you need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned above. Okay now lets look at generators, what generator requirements would i need taking the above home size and consumption into consideration? To determine the generator requirements for a home with 8 rooms and a total energy consumption of around 1.5 kWh per day, you need to consider the following: Energy consumption: You need to know the total energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Peak load: You need to consider the highest amount of power that will be needed at any one time, known as the peak load. Fuel type: There are two main types of generators, gasoline and diesel. Gasoline generators are typically less expensive, but diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and have a longer lifespan. Noise level: Consider the noise level of the generator, especially if it will be used near residential areas. Portability: Consider the portability of the generator, as you may need to move it in case of an emergency. As a rough estimate, a typical 7kW generator can provide enough power to run a home with 8 rooms and a total energy consumption of around 1.5 kWh per day. However, this is just an estimate, and it's recommended to consult a generator specialist to determine the exact size and type of generator you need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned above. How much power would an average fridge add to the above calculation of power consumption? The power consumption of a typical fridge depends on its size, age, and efficiency. On average, a typical fridge consumes between 100-400 watts per hour. Let's assume you have a modern, energy-efficient fridge that consumes 200 watts per hour. If the fridge runs for 8 hours per day, it will consume 1600 watt-hours, or 1.6 kilowatt-hours, per day. So, if you add a 200 watt fridge to the calculation of power consumption for a home with 8 rooms and an estimated energy consumption of 1.5 kWh per day, the total energy consumption would increase to 3.1 kWh per day. What about maintenance of a solar system, what are the factors to consider ? When it comes to maintaining a solar energy system, the following factors should be considered: Panel cleaning: Solar panels should be kept clean to ensure maximum energy production. Dirt, dust, and bird droppings can reduce the efficiency of the panels, so regular cleaning is important. Battery maintenance: The batteries in a solar energy system should be checked regularly for proper charging and discharging. Regular cleaning of battery terminals is also important to prevent corrosion. Inverter maintenance: The inverter in a solar energy system converts DC power from the panels into AC power that can be used by household appliances. Regular monitoring of the inverter is important to ensure it is functioning properly. System monitoring: Regular monitoring of the entire solar energy system can help identify potential problems early, so they can be addressed before they cause major damage. Maintenance contracts: Consider signing a maintenance contract with a solar energy company to ensure regular check-ups and maintenance of the system. Warranty: Ensure the system components have a good warranty in case of any defects or malfunctions. Theft: Unfortunately it is a reality that solar panels are sought after, therefore during your installation you would have to consider safeguarding the panels against theft By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your solar energy system continues to operate efficiently and effectively for many years. When it comes to maintaining a generator system, what are the factors to be considered When it comes to maintaining a generator system, the following factors should be considered: Fuel: Regularly check the fuel level and keep the generator topped up. Store fuel in a safe, dry place, and handle it carefully to prevent spills or leaks. Engine oil: Regularly check the oil level and change it as recommended by the manufacturer. Air filter: Clean or replace the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent dust and dirt from clogging the engine. Spark plug: Check the spark plug periodically and replace it if necessary. Exhaust system: Check the exhaust system for leaks and cracks and repair if necessary. Cooling system: Check the cooling system for leaks and cracks, and make sure the generator is operating in a well-ventilated area. Battery: Check the battery regularly, and if necessary, have it charged or replaced. Electrical connections: Check the electrical connections regularly for loose wires and frayed insulation, and tighten or replace as necessary. Maintenance contracts: Consider signing a maintenance contract with a generator company to ensure regular check-ups and maintenance of the system. Warranty: Ensure the system components have a good warranty in case of any defects or malfunctions. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your generator system continues to operate efficiently and effectively, and be ready when you need it. How often should a solar system be serviced? A solar energy system typically requires minimal maintenance, but it is still important to have it checked and serviced periodically to ensure optimal performance. The frequency of service required depends on the size and complexity of the system, as well as environmental factors such as weather and air quality. As a general guideline, most solar energy systems should be serviced at least once a year. This includes checking the panels for damage, cleaning the panels if necessary, checking the battery, checking the inverter, and checking the electrical connections. If your system is located in a particularly harsh environment or if it has been in operation for several years, more frequent servicing may be necessary. A solar energy professional can assess your system and provide recommendations for the frequency of service that is appropriate for your situation. How often should a generator system be serviced? The frequency of service required for a generator system depends on various factors such as usage, storage conditions, and the type of generator. As a general guideline, the following are recommended maintenance intervals: Monthly: Check oil level, fuel level, and battery level. Every 50 hours of use: Change the oil and oil filter. Every 100 hours of use: Clean the air filter and check the spark plug. Every 250 hours of use: Service the carburettor, fuel system, and generator head. Annually: Perform a complete service of the generator, including checking the starter, alternator, cooling system, exhaust system, and all electrical connections. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific model of generator you have, as these intervals may vary depending on the make and model. Having a professional perform regular maintenance will help extend the life of your generator and ensure that it operates safely and reliably when you need it. How often should my battery and inverter system be serviced? The frequency of service required for a battery and inverter system depends on various factors such as usage, storage conditions, and the type of battery and inverter. As a general guideline, the following are recommended maintenance intervals: Monthly: Check the battery voltage and water level (if required), and check the inverter for any error messages or alarms. Annually: Clean the battery terminals and check the electrolyte level. Have a professional perform a load test on the battery and check the charging system. Every 3 to 5 years: Replace the battery, as its capacity and performance will degrade over time. Every 5 years: Have a professional perform a complete service of the inverter, including checking the fans, cooling system, and all electrical connections. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific battery and inverter you have, as these intervals may vary depending on the make and model. Having a professional perform regular maintenance will help extend the life of your battery and inverter system and ensure that it operates safely and reliably when you need it. What about using a UPS for my home? A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides backup power to your electrical devices in case of a power outage. It works by storing energy in batteries and automatically switching to battery power when the main power source is disrupted. Using a UPS can be an effective solution for providing backup power to your home, especially if you need to keep critical devices such as a computer, internet modem, or security system running during a power outage. A UPS can provide a few minutes of backup power, allowing you to safely shut down your devices and avoid data loss or corruption. When selecting a UPS for your home, it is important to consider the following factors: Capacity: The UPS capacity is measured in VA (Volt-Amps) or Watts. You should select a UPS with a capacity that meets your needs, taking into account the power consumption of the devices you want to protect. Battery runtime: The battery runtime is the amount of time that the UPS can provide backup power on a single battery charge. You should select a UPS with a battery runtime that meets your needs, taking into account the length of time you expect the power outage to last. Outlets: The number of outlets on the UPS determines how many devices you can connect to it. Make sure the UPS you select has enough outlets to meet your needs. Price: UPS devices range in price depending on their capacity, battery runtime, and features. You should select a UPS that offers a good balance between price and performance. It is recommended to have a professional install your UPS system to ensure that it is installed safely and properly. How do I calculate the size UPS I require? To calculate the size of the UPS you require, you need to determine the total power consumption (in Watts) of the devices you want to connect to it. Here's a simple way to do it: Identify the devices: List all the devices that you want to connect to the UPS (e.g., computer, modem, router, TV, etc.). Find the power consumption: Look for the power consumption specifications for each device. These are usually listed on the product label or in the user manual. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps. (Note: most devices operate on 120V AC in the US, while others may operate on 240V AC). Add up the power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices to get the total power consumption. Consider the surge protection: Consider the surge protection requirements of your devices and add an additional 50-100% to the total power consumption to accommodate for power surges and spikes. Choose the UPS: Choose a UPS with a capacity that meets or exceeds the total power consumption you calculated, including the surge protection. The capacity is usually listed in VA (Volt-Amps) or Watts. For example, if you have a computer that uses 150 Watts, a modem that uses 25 Watts, and a router that uses 10 Watts, the total power consumption would be 150 + 25 + 10 = 185 Watts. Adding an additional 50% for surge protection, the required UPS capacity would be 185 x 1.5 = 277.5 Watts. It is always a good idea to choose a UPS with a slightly higher capacity than your actual power consumption to ensure that it can handle any additional devices you might add in the future. How do I calculate the size of solar system I require? To calculate the size of the solar system you require, you need to determine your daily power consumption and the average daily solar insolation in your area. Here's a simple way to do it: Determine your daily power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on solar power. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps. Calculate average daily solar insolation: Determine the average daily solar insolation in your area. This is a measure of the amount of solar energy that falls on a square meter of the earth's surface. You can find this information online or consult a local solar contractor. Determine the required solar panel capacity: Multiply your daily power consumption by the number of days you want to run your devices on solar power, and divide by the average daily solar insolation. This gives you the required solar panel capacity in Watts. For example, if your daily power consumption is 500 Watts, you want to run your devices on solar power for 3 days, and the average daily solar insolation in your area is 5 hours, the required solar panel capacity would be 500 x 3 / (5 x 1 hour/day) = 300 Watts. Choose the right solar panels: Based on the required solar panel capacity, choose the right solar panels. Consider the size, efficiency, and warranty of the panels. Sizing the rest of the system: In addition to solar panels, you will also need a solar inverter, charge controller, batteries (if you want to store energy), and wiring to complete your solar system. The size of these components will depend on the size of your solar panels, your daily power consumption, and your energy storage needs. It's a good idea to consult with a local solar contractor who can help you size your solar system correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate the size of generator I will require? To calculate the size of generator you will require, follow these steps: Determine your power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on the generator. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps. Add a safety factor: Generators are not 100% efficient, so it's best to add a safety factor of 20-30% to your power consumption to account for losses and inefficiencies. Determine the starting and running power requirements: Some devices, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, require more power to start up than to run. To ensure that your generator can handle the load, you need to determine both the starting and running power requirements. Choose the right generator: Based on the total power consumption (including the safety factor), choose a generator that meets your power requirements. Consider the size, efficiency, and fuel type of the generator. Consider fuel storage: If you plan to use a generator for an extended period of time, you need to consider the fuel storage requirements. Calculate the fuel consumption rate of your generator and plan accordingly. It's a good idea to consult with a local generator supplier who can help you size your generator correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate the size of batteries I will require? To calculate the size of batteries you will require, follow these steps: Determine your daily power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on battery power. Calculate your daily power consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Choose your battery capacity: Based on your daily power consumption, choose a battery capacity that can provide enough power to run your devices for the desired period of time. Determine your depth of discharge (DoD): This is the percentage of the battery's capacity that you plan to use. The lower the DoD, the longer the battery will last. A common DoD for deep cycle batteries is 50%. Calculate the battery capacity: Multiply your daily power consumption (kWh) by the number of days you want to run on battery power and divide by the DoD. The result is the minimum battery capacity (Ah) you need. Choose the right battery: Based on the battery capacity you calculated, choose a battery that meets your power requirements. Consider the type of battery, voltage, and current. Consider the number of batteries: To increase the system's reliability and battery life, it's best to use multiple batteries in parallel. Consider the total capacity, voltage, and current when choosing the number of batteries. It's a good idea to consult with a local battery supplier or installer who can help you size your battery correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate my KWH as referenced above? To calculate your daily kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption, follow these steps: Determine your device's power consumption: Check the device's specifications to find its power consumption in watts (W). Calculate the device's energy consumption: Multiply the device's power consumption (W) by the number of hours it's used per day. The result is the device's daily energy consumption in watt-hours (Wh). Add up all the devices: Repeat the calculation for all the devices you want to run on battery power and add up the total energy consumption for all devices. Convert to kilowatt-hours (kWh): Divide the total energy consumption (Wh) by 1000 to convert it to kilowatt-hours (kWh). For example, if you have four 60W light bulbs that you use for 4 hours a day, your daily energy consumption for the light bulbs would be: 60W * 4 hours = 240 Wh. If you also have a TV that uses 100W for 4 hours a day, your total daily energy consumption would be: 240 Wh + (100W * 4 hours) = 840 Wh or 0.84 kWh. I see many homes plugging generator directly into one of the wall outlets and therefore feeding power back into the home, this without going through the distribution box, is this safe? No, it is not safe to plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. Doing so can create a dangerous situation known as "backfeeding," which occurs when power generated by the generator flows back into the electrical grid and endangers utility workers who may be working on the lines. To avoid backfeeding and ensure the safety of everyone, a transfer switch should be installed. This switch allows you to safely disconnect your home's electrical system from the utility grid and connect it to the generator. This ensures that power generated by the generator only flows into your home and not back into the grid. Additionally, it's important to use a generator that's designed for residential use and has the appropriate safety features, such as ground fault protection, circuit breakers, and automatic shutdown in case of low oil level or other issues. What other safety considerations should I consider for generators? When using a generator, it's important to take the following safety considerations into account: Fuel safety: Store fuel in a safe and well-ventilated area, away from any heat source. Keep the fuel container away from children and pets. Location: Place the generator in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from windows, doors, and vents. Avoid operating the generator indoors or in enclosed spaces, as this can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Electrical safety: Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to connect your appliances to the generator, and make sure they're grounded. Avoid overloading the generator by connecting too many appliances at once. Circuit breaker: Make sure the generator has a circuit breaker to protect against power surges and overloads. Grounding: Ground the generator according to the manufacturer's instructions. Maintenance: Regularly maintain the generator, following the manufacturer's recommendations, to keep it running smoothly and to avoid potential hazards. Carbon monoxide: Install CO detectors in your home to alert you if CO levels become dangerous. By taking these safety precautions, you can minimiSe the risk of injury or damage when using a generator. What effect would adding a geyser to the above calculations have? Adding a geyser to your home's power consumption calculations can have a significant effect, as geysers are typically one of the largest energy consumers in a household. The size of the effect will depend on the capacity of the geyser, how often it's used, and the temperature it's set to. To estimate the effect on your power consumption, you need to know the capacity of your geyser (usually measured in liters) and the power rating of the heating element. With this information, you can calculate the average power consumption of the geyser and add it to your total. For example, if your geyser has a capacity of 100 liters and a heating element with a power rating of 2 kW, it will consume an average of 2 kWh per day when it's used to heat the water to the desired temperature. This means that you would need to add an additional 2 kWh to your daily power consumption calculations when determining the size of your alternative energy system. It's important to remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual power consumption may be different depending on various factors, such as the temperature outside, the insulation of your geyser, and the frequency of use. What can I do to reduce the load required at my home during outages? To reduce the load required at your home during power outages, you can follow these steps: Energy efficiency: Upgrade your home's lighting to energy-efficient bulbs, which consume less power. Also, consider using energy-efficient appliances and electronic devices, which can significantly reduce your overall power consumption. Reduce standby power: Many electronic devices and appliances consume power even when they're not in use. Reduce this standby power by turning off devices and unplugging them when not in use. Use solar-powered devices: Consider using solar-powered lights and other devices, which can reduce your power consumption during outages. Use a load management system: A load management system can help you manage your power consumption during outages by automatically turning off non-essential devices and appliances. Limit hot water usage: Hot water can consume a significant amount of power. Reduce your hot water usage by taking short showers, washing clothes in cold water, and limiting the use of the geyser. By following these steps, you can reduce the load required at your home during power outages, making it easier to manage with alternative energy systems such as batteries, solar panels, and generators. Where can I get more technical information, costings and assistance? We have a number of companies on The Go-To Guy that you can speak to, you can find all their contact details, WhatsApp numbers, Facebook pages and other relevant information here at this link: Generator and Solar Suppliers (Look under Generators and Solar and Electricians)

Market days are incredibly popular in local communities and if done right can become a regular fixture on the events calendar in your area, and indeed market days could be arranged by any individual or community on a regular basis. As Potchefstroom is part of a larger farming area it also makes sense to try and involve local farmers and producers to be the nucleus of such a fresh market day. Here at The Go-To Guy we also love markets, and we created a category specifically for markets as well as popup store in our community, you can check these out at the following link: Local Markets. If you do arrange a market day, or you are interested to arrange a market day, then perhaps this short list of things to consider may assist you in putting together a fantastic day that you can be proud of, and that the community will enjoy, here is our short list: Location: Choose a location that is easily accessible and visible to the local community, ensure that there is enough and safe parking. Promotion: Advertise the market day in advance through local newspapers, social media, to attract customers, use Facebook events feature and push these out to local community pages on Facebook. Here at The Go-To Guy you can also register your market day for free at the Events page, which you can find at this link here: Regional Events Participation: I nvite other local farmers to participate in the market day to provide a diverse selection of products. Timing : Schedule the market day at a time when it is convenient for both farmers and customers. Also check that your event does not clash with other events in your area, if you need to check what events are in your area you can check the events page on The Go-To Guy at this link here: Regional Events Quality : Make sure to have the best quality produce available for customers. Safety measures: Ensure that the market day follows all necessary safety measures. Customer service: Provide good customer service, such as answering questions on social media, having contact numbers where potential customers as well as vendors could easily contact you for more information. Variety: Offer a variety of fruits and vegetables to attract different customers. Price : Set competitive prices that are fair to both you and your customers. Follow-up: Collect customer feedback after the market day and use it to improve future market days. Points to focus on when promotion your market day: Social media: Create event pages and posts on popular social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to promote the market day and attract customers. Local newspapers: Place ads in local newspapers to inform the community about the market day. Collaboration : Collaborate with other local businesses and organisations, such as restaurants or supermarkets, to promote the market day. Online marketplaces : Use online marketplaces such as Facebook market place the market day to reach a wider audience. Word of mouth: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about the market day to their friends and family. The Go-To Guy: Place your market day on the Potchefstroom App created by The Go-To Guy Customer loyalty program: Create a customer loyalty program where customers can earn rewards or discounts for attending the market day. Press release: Send out a press release to local media outlets to generate coverage of the market day. So dust of your boots, get your community going and start building a great program for a great market day in your community

What I should wear for a job interview ? When going to a job interview, it is important to dress professionally. This typically means wearing a suit or blazer and pants or a skirt, with a collared shirt or blouse. Avoid wearing anything too casual or revealing. It's also important to wear clean, polished shoes and to make sure your hair is well-groomed. It's better to be overdressed than underdressed, as it shows that you take the interview and the potential job seriously. Overall, the key is to present yourself as polished, put-together, and professional. What not to wear for an interview. Avoid certain types of clothing and accessories. These include: Casual clothing such as jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers. Revealing clothing such as low-cut tops or short skirts. Clothing with offensive or controversial graphics or language. Excessively flashy or trendy clothing. Clothing that is excessively wrinkled, stained or dirty. Heavy perfume or cologne. Excessive jewellery, makeup or accessories. It's important to remember that the goal of your interview attire is to make a positive and professional first impression. Avoid anything that could be considered unprofessional or distracting, and it's better to err on the side of dressing more formally than less. There is a saying in the job market that goes like this "the last statement you want to make at a job interview is a fashion statement" What colours are the best to wear for an interview ? It's best to stick with neutral, professional colors such as black, navy blue, grey, or beige. These colors are considered classic and timeless, and they're less likely to be distracting or controversial. Wearing a dark colour like black or navy blue can also convey a sense of authority and professionalism. However, it's also important to consider the culture and dress code of the company you're interviewing with. If the company has a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, more subdued colors like khaki or olive green may be appropriate. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of the colours that look good on you. If you're not comfortable with the colour you're wearing, it could affect your confidence and performance during the interview. So, you can choose the colour that makes you feel confident and professional. What colours to avoid when going for an interview. Avoid colours that are too bright, bold or flashy, as they can be distracting and may come across as unprofessional. Some examples of colours to avoid include: Bright or neon colours such as hot pink, orange, or yellow. Pastel colours, as they can appear too casual or playful for a formal interview setting. White, as it can be difficult to keep looking crisp and clean throughout the day. Loud patterns or prints, as they can be distracting and may take away from the content of the interview. Should women to wear heels to an interview or can flat shoes be worn ? Women should wear shoes that are comfortable and professional for a job interview. Heels can be a great option for adding height and making a polished impression, but they can also be uncomfortable and difficult to walk in for long periods of time. Flat shoes such as loafers, oxfords, or ballet flats can also be a great option for a job interview. They are comfortable, easy to walk in, and they still look professional. It's important to make sure that your shoes are clean and well-maintained, and that they complement the rest of your outfit. Ultimately, the most important thing is to make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in your footwear. If you're not used to wearing heels, it might be best to stick with a comfortable pair of flats that you're familiar with. What shoe should men wear for a job interview and what should they avoid wearing ? Men should wear dress shoes for a job interview. These shoes are typically made of leather and have a polished, formal appearance. They can be lace-up or slip-on styles, such as oxfords, loafers, or dress boots. They are versatile, professional and can be paired with a suit, slacks or khakis. It's important to make sure that your shoes are clean and well-maintained, and that they complement the rest of your outfit. Avoid wearing shoes that are scuffed, worn out, or have holes in them. It's also important to avoid wearing athletic shoes, sandals, or any other type of casual shoe. These types of shoes can give off a casual or unprofessional impression, and can take away from the polished look you are trying to achieve. What about going barefoot? Well unless you going for a cross country barefoot marathon position this is not advisable :) The Go-To Guy Job Pages If you are job hunting be sure to check out the positions available on the different Job boards created by The Go-To Guy at the following link: Job Boards