This past Saturday, 19 July, the usually bustling Matlosana Mall in Klerksdorp became the heartbeat of something far deeper than fitness or fun, it marked the starting pulse of a growing national campaign to bring dementia and Alzheimer’s into the public eye. The event? A vibrant community trail run that blended athletic energy with heartfelt purpose, creating a ripple effect for the upcoming TRACTOR Awareness Rally. Image: NWU Running for Remembrance Organised as a prelude to the larger national awareness effort, the Matlosana Mall trail run drew participants of all ages, students, medical professionals, families, and concerned citizens. The message was clear: dementia affects us all, directly or indirectly, and the time to talk about it, support those living with it, and break the stigma is now. While the run was symbolic, the cause behind it was urgent. With over 187,000 older South Africans currently living with dementia , and that number expected to climb to 250,000 by 2030 , the rallying call isn’t just for awareness, it’s for action, compassion, and community resilience. TRACTOR: A Journey of Hope The TRACTOR campaign, which stands for Together Rallying Across Communities to Overcome Remembrance-loss , is a bold and creative initiative launched by North-West University (NWU) . It’s spearheaded by the university’s Faculty of Health Sciences, in partnership with Engineering Compliance and the Department of Sustainability and Community Impact, and supported by corporate and civic partners. From 30 August to 11 September 2025 , a branded Landini tractor  will roll out from Potchefstroom, covering more than 1,900 km  to reach Bredasdorp in the Western Cape. Along the way, the tractor will stop in towns across the country, hosting events, sharing real stories, offering memory care resources, and celebrating the resilience of caregivers and those affected. Why a tractor? As the campaign explains, the vehicle is both symbolic and strategic: “slow but steady, powerful and present” , a perfect metaphor for the long, enduring journey faced by those with memory-loss conditions and their support systems. Image: NWU A Community-Driven Movement Saturday’s trail run not only raised awareness but also built connections, between health professionals and families, between students and caregivers, between strangers united by empathy. Participants wore campaign shirts and sported temporary tattoos of the TRACTOR logo. Volunteers handed out leaflets explaining early signs of dementia, how to seek help, and why every small act of understanding matters. In a country where mental health remains heavily stigmatized and many live far from care facilities, initiatives like TRACTOR become more than symbolic. They serve as mobile lifelines, delivering education, emotional support, and a sense of unity. How to Get Involved Community members and businesses alike are invited to support the TRACTOR campaign in several ways: Volunteer or join the rally route Spread awareness via social media  using the hashtag #TRACTORforMemory Donate  to keep the journey moving at https://apex.nwu.ac.za/ords/f?p=140:1:16553276600544 Reach out directly  to the campaign team: 📧 Tractor.rally@nwu.ac.za Mrs Esmé Marks: Esme.Marks@nwu.ac.za Tshwanelo Maleko: 35648376@mynwu.ac.za One Town, One Memory at a Time It’s not just metal and wheels that are on the move, it’s hope, visibility, and human connection. Saturday’s trail run was more than a warm-up; it was a call to walk, run, roll, and remember, together. Because when it comes to dementia, every step matters. Every voice matters. Every memory matters. #TheGoToGuy #Klerksdorp #klerksdorpgazette #NWU

In a recent wave of initiatives, JB Marks Local Municipality continues to focus on strengthening internal leadership, empowering the youth, and providing access to developmental resources. While no infrastructure-related updates were made available for this date, the following community-focused events and leadership announcements highlight a shift toward participatory governance and youth support. 👤 New Appointments in Municipal Leadership The municipality has announced the appointment of the following individuals to key director positions: Mr. Tebogo Nteo  – Director: Corporate Services Ms. Yvonne Malesa  – Acting Director: Sport, Arts and Culture Ms. Lerato April  – Acting Assistant Director: Sport, Arts and Culture Mr. Moshe Legoete  – Acting Director: Housing Development & Planning These leadership changes signal internal restructuring aimed at strengthening service delivery and community development. 🗣️ Ward 32: Youth Engagement Roadshow Ward Councillor Tshepang Tsamai  is hosting a youth-focused engagement campaign titled “Conversation with the Youth” , encouraging young people to “Come Share, Listen & Grow Together.”Key dates and venues: 📍 Boikhutso Community Hall  – Monday, 28 July 2025 | 14:00 📍 AppelDraai (Plasing)  – Tuesday, 29 July 2025 | 14:00 📍 Toevlug Community Hall  – Wednesday, 30 July 2025 | 14:00 Quotes from the campaign emphasize youth as “the driving force behind progress” and “catalysts for positive change.” 🚦 Ward 19: Learner’s License Program – Appointment Phase Councillor Simon Molefi Moretsi  has confirmed that Ward 19 residents aged 18–35  are invited to the Learners License Program  at: 🗓️ Friday, 01 August 2025 🕓 16:00 PM 📍 Lusaka Community Hall Requirements: ID document 2 ID photos Eye test results This initiative is part of the municipality’s broader youth development drive under the hashtag #RaethomaRaetetsa . Closing Note While service delivery operations (roads, electricity, water, sanitation) were not outlined in today's materials, the municipality appears to be prioritizing internal leadership stability and proactive youth outreach. With Ward 32 and Ward 19 setting active community-focused programs in motion, residents are encouraged to attend, engage, and take advantage of these civic opportunities. 📢 Stay tuned for more operational updates in the next JB Marks Service Delivery Update #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #JBMarks

The City of Matlosana has unveiled a new online service allowing residents and businesses to apply for small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) solar connections without visiting municipal offices. The digital portal, now live at apply.sseg.org.za , aims to streamline the application process and support local uptake of rooftop solar installations. Digital Registration Made Simple Under the new system, prospective SSEG customers can: Submit Applications Online:  Complete and upload all required forms and documentation via the portal. Track Application Status:  Monitor each step, from initial review to final approval, through an on‑screen dashboard. Access Guidance Materials:  Download policy guidelines, technical requirements and FAQs to ensure compliance with grid‑connection standards. By removing paper‑based workflows, the municipality expects to reduce processing times from several weeks to just days. Once approved, applicants receive an electronic clearance certificate, enabling them to proceed with installation. Supporting Renewable Energy Growth Matlosana’s online SSEG platform aligns with national objectives to expand renewable‑energy capacity at the household and commercial level. Key benefits include: Lower Electricity Bills:  Solar exports to the grid can offset monthly consumption charges. Reduced Network Strain:  Distributed generation eases demand on substation transformers. Environmental Impact:  Wider solar adoption contributes to the City’s carbon‑reduction targets. Municipal engineers note that streamlined approvals will encourage more residents, particularly small businesses and schools, to adopt solar technology. Helpdesk and Assistance For those needing support with the online process, the City has dedicated a call center reachable at 018 487 8701/05  during standard business hours. Call‑center staff can guide applicants through account creation, document uploads and portal navigation. Final Thought By migrating SSEG applications to an online portal, the City of Matlosana is simplifying access to clean‑energy solutions and accelerating permit turnaround times. Solar-installation applicants are encouraged to visit apply.sseg.org.za  and use the helpline for any technical questions, marking a significant step toward a more resilient and sustainable municipal power grid. #TheGoToGuy #Klerksdorp #Klerksdorpgazette #CityofMatsolana

Over the weekend of 25–28 July , the City of Matlosana unveiled a new online solar‑connection portal, marked Nelson Mandela Month with youth volunteers, managed an urgent water shutdown in the Klerksdorp CBD and resolved a disruption in meter‑reading services. Below is an independent overview of these key developments. 1. Online SSEG Registration Goes Live Friday, 25 July 2025: The municipality introduced a dedicated web portal , apply.sseg.org.za , enabling residents and businesses to submit applications for small‑scale embedded generation (SSEG) solar connections entirely online. Applicants can now upload required forms, track their application status via a dashboard and download guidance materials without visiting municipal offices. A call center (018 487 8701/05) is available to assist users with account setup and document uploads. Mayor Mahlophe Leads Mandela‑Month Service Friday, 25 July 2025: As part of Nelson Mandela Month, Cllr Fikile Mahlophe and the Office of the Executive Mayor partnered with the National Youth Development Agency’s National Youth Service (NYS) Programme for a community service day at Minovia Disability Centre in Khuma. Dozens of Khuma youth painted, cleaned and landscaped the facility grounds. Organisers say the initiative both honors Mandela’s legacy and fosters skills, social inclusion and volunteerism among young people. The NYS Programme, a government youth‑development scheme, seeks to improve service delivery, nation‑building and sustainable‐livelihood training. Emergency Water Shutdown in Klerksdorp CBD Saturday, 26 July 2025: An urgent repair to a burst main on Goue Street prompted a temporary water‐supply interruption across the Klerksdorp central business district. From 08:00 to 18:00, businesses and offices experienced low pressure or no supply while crews replaced a damaged pipe segment. The municipality deployed water tankers on key routes and apologised for any inconvenience. For enquiries, residents were directed to 018 487 8383/67. Meter‑Reading Services Resume After Dispute As of Monday, 21 July 2025 (update issued 25 July): The City apologised for a gap in meter reading caused by a contractual dispute with service provider Mosekate Meter Readers. Following resolution of the disagreement, meter‑reading resumed on 21 July. Customers are advised that account updates will be delayed, with all readings and billing reconciliations expected to be completed by Friday, 8 August. The municipality has committed to clearer communication and improved operational efficiency going forward. Final Thought This weekend’s announcements reflect Matlosana’s dual focus on digital service delivery and hands‑on community support. Residents are encouraged to explore the new SSEG portal, participate in local volunteer opportunities, plan for any scheduled outages and monitor official channels for updates on billing and service‑delivery matters. #TheGoToGuy #klerksdorp #klerksdorpgazette #Cityofmatsolana

Reabetswe Dithipe, Jessica Joshua, Ane Saunderson en Diedre van Rensburg is vroeër vandeesmaand gekies as deel van die 39-speler SA U19 Vroue-nasionale opleidingsgroep. Hierdie span het van 16 – 19 Julie by die CSA Centre of Excellence in Tshwane aan ’n intensiewe nasionale kamp deelgeneem. Hierdie prestasie is ’n groot mylpaal vir elke speler en ’n trotse oomblik vir North West Cricket. Die talent, harde werk en deursettingsvermoë van hierdie jong krieketspelers het verseker dat hulle hul plek op die nasionale verhoog verdien het. Image: North West Dragons Cricket Betekenis van die Kamp Die CSA U19 Women’s National Training Camp bied aan jong talentvolle spelers die geleentheid om hul vaardighede te slyp, nasionale afrigting te ontvang en hulself op ’n groter platform te bewys. Om deel van hierdie kamp te wees, plaas spelers op die radar van nasionale keurders, wat moontlike toekomstige SA-span seleksies kan beteken. Die insluiting van vier Noordwes-spelers in hierdie groep wys op die sterk ontwikkeling van vroue-krieket in die streek en die kwaliteit van afrigting wat beskikbaar is. ’n Inspirasie vir Jong Spelers Hierdie prestasie dien as inspirasie vir jong krieketspelers in Noordwes en die res van die land. Dit is ’n bewys dat deur harde werk, vasberadenheid en toewyding, enige speler die hoogste vlakke van die sport kan bereik. Baie geluk aan Reabetswe, Jessica, Ane en Diedre, julle het North West Cricket trots gemaak! Deel Jou Sportstorie Het jy ’n sport- of kultuurhoogtepunt wat jy met die gemeenskap wil deel? The Go-To Guy  se joernalistieke span is hier om dit wyer te vertel. Ons vertel jou storie. Oor The Go-To Guy www.thegotoguy.co.za  en www.potchefstroom.com  is jou digitale inligtingsentrum met meer as 75,000 maandelikse bladsybesoeke. Ons dek plaaslike nuus, sport en skole via The Gazette , en bied ’n aktiewe besigheidsgids met meer as 2,500 ondernemings en ’n uiters gewilde gebeurteniskalender. Met ons groeiende sosiale media-platforms, Facebook (77,000+ volgers) en TikTok (2 miljoen kyke), help ons om plaaslike stories verder te neem as ooit. Ons vertel jou stories. The Go-To Guy Kommersiële Pakkette Herhalende Pakkette – ’n Tuiste vir jou Besigheid Business Card Standard (Gratis):  Basiese besigheidslys. Business Card Plus (R50 p.m.):  Verifikasie en ’n uitgebreide profiel. Maandelikse Bemarkingspakkette Starter Package (R499 p.m.):  Webbie Page, Gazette-profiel, 1 gratis gebeurtenislysing, en Facebook-boosts. Growth Package (R1,499 p.m.):  Meer advertensie-ure, eie rekeningbestuurder en navorsingsfunksies. Premium Package (R4,499 p.m.):  Alles-insluitende bemarking, video-inhoud, strategiese promosie en live onderhoude. Addisionele Dienste Sosiale media bestuur, Google Ads, TikTok-promosies. Eenmalige Opsies Video-advertensies vanaf R2,000, vertoonadvertensies vir R750, en One Hit Gazette -artikels vanaf R1,200. #NorthWestCricket #SAU19Women #ReabetsweDithipe #JessicaJoshua #AneSaunderson #DiedreVanRensburg #TheGoToGuy #OnsVertelJouStorie

Klerksdorp Hoërskool (KHS) se rugbymanne het die afgelope naweek na Ermelo gereis waar hulle kragte gemeet het teen Ligbron Akademie. Met goeie spanwerk en vasberadenheid het verskeie KHS-spanne uitstekende oorwinnings behaal. Die eerstespan het met ’n indrukwekkende telling van 46 – 31 gewen, terwyl die o/16A-span ook ’n dominante vertoning gelewer het met ’n 40 – 12 oorwinning. Die o/14B-span het die dag se hoogtepunt by die jonger spanne gevat deur met 57 – 7 te skitter. Image: Klerksdorp Hoërskool Volledige Uitslae: KHS vs Ligbron o/14A:  Verloor 7 – 12 o/14B:  Wen 57 – 7 o/15A:  Verloor 15 – 17 o/15B:  Verloor 19 – 20 o/16A:  Wen 40 – 12 o/16B:  Verloor 7 – 19 3de span:  Verloor 5 – 19 2de span:  Verloor 10 – 23 1ste span:  Wen 46 – 31 Spanpoging en Gees Alhoewel daar ’n paar noue nederlae was, het die wedstryde gewys dat KHS ’n sterk diepte van talent het en gereed is om verder te groei in die seisoen. Die eerstespan se oorwinning was ’n goeie voorbeeld van hoe vasberadenheid en spanwerk resultate kan lewer. Deel Jou Skoolstorie The Go-To Guy vertel die stories van skole, leerders en gemeenskappe. Skole en ouers word uitgenooi om hul nuus en hoogtepunte vir publikasie met ons te deel. “Ons vertel jou storie.” Oor The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  en www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom se mees omvattende inligtingsplatform met meer as 75,000 bladsybesoeke per maand. Ons vertel die stories van die stad, sy mense, sy besighede en sy gemeenskap via ons Gazette-nuusafdeling, en bied ’n besigheidsgids met meer as 2,500 gelyste besighede. Ons geleentheidskalender bevat al meer as 1,500 plaaslike geleenthede en is een van die mees besoekte in die streek. Met bykomende afdelings vir werk, eiendom, gemeenskapskontakte en dinge om te doen, is The Go-To Guy die sentrale inligtingsbron vir Potchefstroom. Ons sosiale media-platforms sluit in meer as 77,000 Facebook-volgers, ’n TikTok-kanaal met byna 2 miljoen kyke, en aktiewe profiele op Instagram, X en verskeie WhatsApp-groepe. Ons live streaming-studio bied weeklikse sport-, gemeenskaps- en ander program-uitsendings, terwyl ons Potch Gazette maandeliks meer as 7,300 intekenare bereik. Ons joernalistieke span fokus op plaaslike stories, sport, besigheid en gemeenskapsinisiatiewe. Met ’n mobiele app, sowel as digitale advertensie-opsies op Google, TikTok en Facebook, bied ons ’n volledige bemarkingsoplossing. Ons slagspreuk: “Ons vertel jou stories.” The Go-To Guy Pakkette 1. Herhalende Pakkette: ’n Tuiste vir Jou Besigheid Business Card Standard (gratis):  Jou besigheid word in ons databasis gelys. Business Card Plus (R50 p/m):  ’n Hoër sigbaarheid, ’n “meer detail”-bladsy, foto’s en klikbare skakels. 2. Maandelikse Bemarkingspakkette: Starter Package (R499 p/m):  Webbie Page, Gazette-profiel, 1 gratis geleentheidslysing, Facebook-boosts, afslag op video’s. Growth Package (R1,499 p/m):  18 dae Facebook-boosts, eie rekeningbestuurder, gratis werksplasings, beter video-afslag. Premium Package (R4,499 p/m):  Strategie, professionele stories, maandelikse video’s, uitgebreide promosie, e-posveldtogte en analitiese verslag. 3. Ekstra en Eenmalige Dienste: Facebook-bladbestuur, Google- en TikTok-veldtogte. Video-advertensies vanaf R2,000. Baniere (R750 vir 7 dae). One Hit Gazette-artikels vanaf R1,200. #KHSRugby #KlerksdorpHoërskool #Ligbron #SkoleRugby #KHSFirstXV #TheGoToGuy #OnsVertelJouStorie

The North-West University (NWU) is gaining national recognition for its commitment to student employability, having been nominated as one of the top three contenders in the Best Career Service category at the 2025 South African Graduate Employers Association (SAGEA) Awards. A National Spotlight on Career Readiness The nomination places NWU alongside major academic institutions such as the University of Cape Town and the University of Pretoria. For the university's Career Services team, it’s a significant moment that validates their hands-on, student-first approach to workforce preparation. The SAGEA Awards, hosted biennially, are among South Africa’s most respected platforms for celebrating excellence in graduate recruitment and development. The Best Career Service category is particularly notable as it reflects both employer feedback and student experiences, with a focus on how effectively institutions bridge the gap between education and employment. Student-Centered Support in Action Over recent years, NWU’s Career Services Centre has evolved into a dynamic space offering a range of tailored support options, from one-on-one career coaching and CV assistance to employer engagement events, job shadowing, and graduate placement programmes. The Centre’s initiatives speak directly to the demands of the contemporary job market, equipping students with critical soft skills, digital literacy, and real-world exposure. This strategic positioning has made NWU a growing force in the graduate employment ecosystem. According to Thoriso Maseng, senior manager for Career Services, the nomination serves as acknowledgment of a broader institutional vision focused on empowering graduates, not just academically, but professionally. The department’s consistent delivery of practical, future-focused services has earned it high praise from both students and hiring organisations. Looking Ahead to the Awards Evening The final results will be unveiled at the SAGEA Gala Awards Evening on Thursday, 13 November 2025, hosted at the Riverside Sun in Vanderbijlpark. Representatives from universities, graduate employers, and career development organisations will be present for what is expected to be a landmark evening in the higher education calendar. Whether NWU walks away with the award or not, the top-three nomination is already a major milestone, reflecting a deep investment in student futures and a commitment to long-term graduate success. Empowering the Next Generation In a competitive academic landscape where institutions must offer more than just qualifications, NWU’s recognition by SAGEA underscores the importance of robust career support systems. As the university awaits the final results, it continues to shape graduates who are not only educated, but employable and equipped to make meaningful contributions in a rapidly changing world. #TheGoToGuy #potchgazette #NWU #potchefstroom

In a week that marked a quiet but significant step in higher education diplomacy, the North-West University (NWU) formalised a new academic partnership with Soroti University  of Uganda, an agreement that is expected to shape the future of regional cooperation in science, innovation, and community engagement. From Dialogue to Partnership This developing relationship traces its origins back to an IAEA inter-regional Vice-Chancellors’ dialogue  held in 2023, which brought together academic leaders from across the continent to explore synergies in higher education. Two years later, that initial connection has matured into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)  between NWU and Soroti University, officially signed this week. The agreement stands as a reflection of NWU’s strategic internationalisation agenda , particularly its emphasis on African collaboration rooted in mutual benefit, capacity-building, and shared development goals. Image: NWU Academic Exchange Meets Research Collaboration The visiting Soroti University delegation engaged closely with NWU’s Faculties of Engineering  and Natural and Agricultural Sciences , delving into areas of joint interest such as: Research collaboration  in applied sciences and sustainable development Curriculum development  aligned with both local relevance and global standards Academic mobility  for staff and students across institutions Community impact projects  focused on rural innovation and technology transfer The discussions were framed not just by technical aspirations, but by a shared commitment to academic transformation, strengthening African-led solutions to challenges that transcend national borders. A Shared African Vision The NWU–Soroti partnership is not just about academic agreements on paper, it is about intentional cooperation  between institutions that understand the value of working together across geography, culture, and discipline. In an era when higher education is increasingly shaped by global forces, this new alliance stands as a timely reminder that Africa’s universities have the power to shape their own future, collectively, and with purpose. #TheGoToGuy #NWU #potchefstroom #potchgazette

Tucked away along the gentle banks of the Mooi River at 17 Meul Street, Potchefstroom , Groen Wilgers Aftree Oord stands as one of the city’s premier retirement villages. Launched as South Africa’s first sectional‑title retirement estate, Groen Wilgers blends independent living with professional care, allowing seniors to age gracefully in comfortable, self‑contained apartments, all within a secure, community‑oriented environment. In this feature, we explore the history and vision behind Groen Wilgers, unpack its accommodation and care offerings, detail its wellness and social programs, examine community partnerships, evaluate challenges and sustainability, and look ahead to the estate’s future evolution. Origins, Vision & Network From Concept to Riverside Haven Groen Wilgers began in the late 1990s as a pioneering initiative: the first sectional‑title retirement village  in South Africa. The idea was simple yet bold, provide older adults the independence of private ownership with the peace of mind of on‑site nursing and emergency systems. Nestled on a tranquil stretch of the Mooi River and shaded by graceful willow trees (hence the Afrikaans name “Wilgers”), the estate was designed to foster both autonomy and connectedness. Sectional Title Model Unlike rental‑based homes, each of Groen Wilgers’ 56 apartments  is owned privately. Owners purchase individual sectional‑title units, each roughly 54 m² and pay a monthly levy covering communal services and care infrastructure. This hybrid model empowers seniors to invest in property while sharing operational costs with neighbors, ensuring financial sustainability and a sense of permanence. Mission & Values Groen Wilgers’ mission centers on “making the rest of your life a happy memory” , balancing dignity, security, and community. By combining independent living  and frail‑care readiness , the estate anticipates residents’ changing needs, embodying a proactive approach to aging. The underlying ethos is that seniors should have choice, of unit, lifestyle, social engagement, within a framework of caring support. Location & Riverscape Setting Riverside Tranquility Positioned at 17 Meul Street , Groen Wilgers enjoys one of Potchefstroom’s most scenic vistas. The Mooi River meanders past manicured lawns and communal gardens, offering serene walking paths, bird‑watching spots, and river‑edge benches. Residents often comment on the calming sight and sound of flowing water, a natural stress reducer and daily reminder of life’s rhythms. Accessibility & Amenities Despite its peaceful ambiance, the village is conveniently close to the city center. Essential services, clinics, shops, pharmacies, and churches, are within a short drive. Secure on‑site parking and easy road access ensure families can visit without difficulty, and excursion buses frequently ferry residents to town for markets or medical appointments. Accommodation: Self‑Contained Comfort Apartment Layouts Each apartment at Groen Wilgers covers approximately 54 m² , comprising: A spacious bedroom A fully tiled bathroom (shower or bath) A walk‑through kitchenette with built‑in cupboards and space for appliances A generous living area with windows framing riverside views Emergency panic buttons  in key locations The internal corridor linking apartments and communal areas features sturdy handrails, enabling safe, indoor mobility regardless of weather or personal stamina. Private Ownership, Shared Services Owners acquire their units outright and pay a monthly levy that includes: 24‑hour nursing staff  on-site Routine housekeeping and laundry  services Maintenance of communal gardens and buildings Utility management (water, electricity in common areas) Security and emergency response infrastructure This model shifts many operational burdens from individual owners to the community association, freeing seniors from chores they may no longer safely perform. Healthcare & Nursing Services 24‑Hour Nursing Oversight At the heart of Groen Wilgers is a professional nursing team available around the clock. Whether a resident lives independently or requires convalescent support, nurses handle: Medication administration  and monitoring Vital sign checks  (blood pressure, glucose levels) Coordination of doctor visits  and specialist appointments First‑response to calls via panic buttons or staff checks This ensures that minor health issues are addressed promptly before escalating, and families rest assured knowing help is always moments away. Registered Care Unit For those needing overnight supervision, Groen Wilgers operates a 13‑bed care unit  at reduced rates. Residents may move temporarily from their apartments into this unit, say, after surgery or during illness, without relocating permanently. Here, they receive enhanced attention, with their own medication and consumables managed by staff. Safety & Emergency Systems Emergency Panic Buttons Strategically placed panic buttons in bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas connect directly to nursing stations. Residents experiencing falls, chest pain, or other crises simply press to summon immediate aid. Secure Premises Perimeter fencing, monitored access points, and security patrols safeguard against unauthorized entry. Communal corridors and stairwells are well‑lit and equipped with handrails, reducing fall risk. Fire & Disaster Preparedness Regular fire drills, clearly marked exits, and automated alarm systems ensure readiness. Staff receive periodic training in first aid, CPR, and emergency protocols, maintaining a high standard of safety. Wellness, Social & Recreational Programs Nutrition & Dining A communal dining hall  hosts daily meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared fresh on-site. Menus focus on balanced nutrition suitable for seniors, with options for specific dietary needs (low‑sodium, diabetic‑friendly). Mealtime doubling as social time fosters camaraderie and mental well‑being. Physical Activity Gentle exercise classes (chair yoga, stretching, guided walks along the river) help maintain mobility, flexibility, and balance. Physiotherapists occasionally visit to provide tailored sessions for those recovering from injuries. Creative & Leisure Activities To stimulate minds and spirits, the estate organizes: Arts and crafts  workshops (painting, knitting) Bingo nights  and card tournaments Book clubs  and discussion groups Gardening circles , where residents tend flower beds or potted plants Music afternoons , featuring live performances from local schools or musicians Such variety ensures residents find outlets aligned with personal interests and capabilities. Community Engagement & Partnerships Local Collaborations Groen Wilgers partners with nearby clinics, churches, and volunteer groups to enrich resident life. Health screenings (blood pressure, vision tests) are held quarterly in collaboration with community clinics, while faith‑based groups host biweekly devotional gatherings and hymn singing. Volunteer Involvement Schools and youth organizations frequently visit, offering pet therapy sessions (“PAWS Potch”), story‑reading hours, or simply companionship. These intergenerational interactions boost resident morale and bridge generational divides. Family Integration Families are encouraged to participate in events, family day picnics, holiday celebrations, and open‑house tours. On Mother’s and Father’s Day, children and grandchildren often assemble for tribute afternoons, strengthening family bonds. Admissions, Ownership & Costs Eligibility & Process Prospective residents must be 60 years or older  and undergo a health assessment confirming their capacity for independent apartment living. Should health decline, they may access frail‑care services temporarily. Financial Structure Unit purchase price  varies by size and location within the estate. Monthly levy  (currently around ZAR 3,500–4,500) covers services listed earlier. Care unit tariff  (for overnight stays) is a reduced flat rate, with residents supplying personal consumables. This transparent structure helps families budget for both upfront investment and ongoing costs, with the sectional‑title model allowing resale or estate planning advantages. Challenges & Sustainability Operational Costs Rising food, utilities, and staffing expenses exert pressure on monthly levies. The sectional‑title model mitigates some risk by pooling costs, but budget shortfalls can occur if occupancy dips or unexpected maintenance arises. Staff Recruitment & Retention Like many elder‑care facilities, Groen Wilgers contends with a nationwide caregiver shortage . To attract and retain nurses and care workers, management offers competitive salaries, ongoing training, and supportive work‑life balance initiatives. Infrastructure Maintenance The estate’s age means periodic renovations, roof repairs, plumbing upgrades, corridor repainting, are essential. The community association allocates reserve funds for such capital expenditures, yet significant projects may require special levies or fundraising drives. Future Outlook & Innovations Technology Integration Plans are underway to pilot telehealth consultations , enabling virtual doctor visits directly from apartments. Remote monitoring (wearable alerts for falls or irregular vitals) is also under consideration. Expanded Day‑Care Services To serve Potchefstroom’s broader senior population, Groen Wilgers is exploring a day‑care program  allowing non‑residents to access meals, activities, and social interaction during daytime hours. Green Initiatives Animated by its riverside setting, the estate aims to implement more sustainable practices: rainwater harvesting for gardens, solar‑powered lighting in common areas, and eco‑friendly cleaning products. Aging with Dignity on the Mooi River Groen Wilgers Aftree Oord exemplifies a forward‑thinking approach to retirement living, one that honours seniors’ autonomy while embedding robust care and community spirit. From its pioneering sectional‑title model to its 24‑hour nursing oversight, emergency systems, and rich social programs, the estate offers a comprehensive environment where residents can pursue each day with confidence, connection, and comfort. Groen Wilgers meets that need by blending independence and safety, riverbank tranquility and structured support, personal ownership and collective responsibility. In doing so, it not only safeguards residents’ well‑being but also uplifts the broader Potchefstroom community, reminding us all that aging is not a burden but a chapter rich with potential, purpose, and peace. #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #oldagehome

The past two weeks have been a demanding test of endurance and spirit for Potchefstroom Dorp Rugbyklub, with back-to-back away fixtures against heavyweights Impala and Welkom. As the dust settles, all eyes are now on this coming weekend's highly anticipated derby against Klerksdorp, a fixture that promises to reignite club pride and rally the local rugby faithful. Match Results Recap 19 July 2025 – Away at Impala 🏉 2nd Team : Potch Dorp 19 – 17 Impala 2 A hard-fought victory for the 2nd XV in a tightly contested match. 🏉 1st Team : Potch Dorp 29 – 38 Impala 1 Despite a strong showing, the first team fell short against the formidable Impala squad. 26 July 2025 – Away at Welkom 🏉 2nd Team : Potch Dorp 10 – 40 Welkom 2 A tough outing for the 2nd team as Welkom proved dominant. 🏉 1st Team : Potch Dorp 17 – 77 Welkom 1A sobering result for the 1st XV, who were outpaced by Welkom’s experienced side. Upcoming Fixture: Klerksdorp Derby – 2 August 2025 All roads now lead to Klerksdorp this Saturday as Potch Dorp travels west for a crucial away fixture at the iconic Markötter Stadium. Known as one of the oldest clubs in the Leopards Rugby region, Klerksdorp presents a rich history and fierce competition, making this clash a highlight on the calendar. Fans are encouraged to make the short drive to support the teams, soak up the derby atmosphere, and help make noise on the sidelines. The game marks a vital moment for Dorp Rugby to reset, rally, and fight back after a tough spell on the road. Rugby is about more than just the scoreboard, it’s about showing up, playing with heart, and learning with every tackle. See you in Klerksdorp!  🦁💪 #TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #potchgazette #DorpRugby #KlerksdorpDerby #LuiperdsRugby #MarkötterStadion

Die o/12A- en o/13A-netbalspanne van Laerskool Mooirivier het onlangs deelgeneem aan die Suid-Afrikaanse Netbalkampioenskappe, ’n gebeurtenis wat vir die dogters ’n unieke geleentheid vir groei, spanbou en trots gebied het. Image: Laerskool Mooirivier ’n Ervaring om te Onthou Deur elke wedstryd het die Tokkie-dogters gewys dat hulle nie net talent het nie, maar ook die passie en deursettingsvermoë wat sportmanne van ware karakter onderskei. Lesse is geleer, herinneringe is gemaak en Tokkies se naam is met waardigheid gedra. ’n Boodskap van Trots Laerskool Mooirivier is ongelooflik trots op elke speler wat die baan betree het. “Julle het nie net netbal gespeel nie, julle het Tokkies se gees en waardes lewendig gemaak,” lui die boodskap van die skool. Deel Jou Skoolstorie The Go-To Guy vertel die stories van skole, leerders en gemeenskappe. Skole en ouers word uitgenooi om hul nuus en hoogtepunte vir publikasie met ons te deel. “Ons vertel jou storie.” Oor The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  en www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom se mees omvattende inligtingsplatform met meer as 75,000 bladsybesoeke per maand. Ons vertel die stories van die stad, sy mense, sy besighede en sy gemeenskap via ons Gazette-nuusafdeling, en bied ’n besigheidsgids met meer as 2,500 gelyste besighede. Ons geleentheidskalender bevat al meer as 1,500 plaaslike geleenthede en is een van die mees besoekte in die streek. Met bykomende afdelings vir werk, eiendom, gemeenskapskontakte en dinge om te doen, is The Go-To Guy die sentrale inligtingsbron vir Potchefstroom. Ons sosiale media-platforms sluit in meer as 77,000 Facebook-volgers, ’n TikTok-kanaal met byna 2 miljoen kyke, en aktiewe profiele op Instagram, X en verskeie WhatsApp-groepe. Ons live streaming-studio bied weeklikse sport-, gemeenskaps- en ander program-uitsendings, terwyl ons Potch Gazette maandeliks meer as 7,300 intekenare bereik. Ons joernalistieke span fokus op plaaslike stories, sport, besigheid en gemeenskapsinisiatiewe. Met ’n mobiele app, sowel as digitale advertensie-opsies op Google, TikTok en Facebook, bied ons ’n volledige bemarkingsoplossing. Ons slagspreuk: “Ons vertel jou stories.” The Go-To Guy Pakkette 1. Herhalende Pakkette: ’n Tuiste vir Jou Besigheid Business Card Standard (gratis):  Jou besigheid word in ons databasis gelys. Business Card Plus (R50 p/m):  ’n Hoër sigbaarheid, ’n “meer detail”-bladsy, foto’s en klikbare skakels. 2. Maandelikse Bemarkingspakkette: Starter Package (R499 p/m):  Webbie Page, Gazette-profiel, 1 gratis geleentheidslysing, Facebook-boosts, afslag op video’s. Growth Package (R1,499 p/m):  18 dae Facebook-boosts, eie rekeningbestuurder, gratis werksplasings, beter video-afslag. Premium Package (R4,499 p/m):  Strategie, professionele stories, maandelikse video’s, uitgebreide promosie, e-posveldtogte en analitiese verslag. 3. Ekstra en Eenmalige Dienste: Facebook-bladbestuur, Google- en TikTok-veldtogte. Video-advertensies vanaf R2,000. Baniere (R750 vir 7 dae). One Hit Gazette-artikels vanaf R1,200. #TokkieTrots #OnsKan #TokkieNetbal #TheGoToGuy

Potchefstroom Gimnasium is trots om die prestasies van sy Musieksentrum-leerders te vier wat hul teorie-eksamens by Unisa met uitmuntende resultate geslaag het. Hierdie jong musikante het met harde werk en toewyding gewys dat musiek nie net ’n talent nie, maar ook ’n kuns van dissipline en deursettingsvermoë is. Image: Potchefstroom Gimnasium  Uitsonderlike Prestasies Baie geluk aan die volgende leerders: Annemarie van der Westhuizen  – slaag graad 5 met meriete. Sky-Lee Botma  – slaag graad 2 met onderskeiding. Lejla van Zaanen  – slaag graad 5 met meriete. Annika Odendaal  – slaag graad 4 met meriete. Hierdie uitslae getuig van hul liefde vir musiek en die ure se toewyding wat hulle in hul studies geplaas het. Gimmie Trots Gimmies is baie trots op hierdie leerders se harde werk en vasberadenheid. Hulle prestasies is ’n inspirasie vir hul medeleerders om hul eie talente verder te ontwikkel. “Musiek bou karakter en verryk elke aspek van ons lewens,” lui die boodskap van die Musieksentrum. Deel Jou Skoolstorie The Go-To Guy vertel die stories van skole, leerders en gemeenskappe. Skole en ouers word uitgenooi om hul nuus en hoogtepunte vir publikasie met ons te deel. “Ons vertel jou storie.” Oor The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  en www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom se mees omvattende inligtingsplatform met meer as 75,000 bladsybesoeke per maand. Ons vertel die stories van die stad, sy mense, sy besighede en sy gemeenskap via ons Gazette-nuusafdeling, en bied ’n besigheidsgids met meer as 2,500 gelyste besighede. Ons geleentheidskalender bevat al meer as 1,500 plaaslike geleenthede en is een van die mees besoekte in die streek. Met bykomende afdelings vir werk, eiendom, gemeenskapskontakte en dinge om te doen, is The Go-To Guy die sentrale inligtingsbron vir Potchefstroom. Ons sosiale media-platforms sluit in meer as 77,000 Facebook-volgers, ’n TikTok-kanaal met byna 2 miljoen kyke, en aktiewe profiele op Instagram, X en verskeie WhatsApp-groepe. Ons live streaming-studio bied weeklikse sport-, gemeenskaps- en ander program-uitsendings, terwyl ons Potch Gazette maandeliks meer as 7,300 intekenare bereik. Ons joernalistieke span fokus op plaaslike stories, sport, besigheid en gemeenskapsinisiatiewe. Met ’n mobiele app, sowel as digitale advertensie-opsies op Google, TikTok en Facebook, bied ons ’n volledige bemarkingsoplossing. Ons slagspreuk: “Ons vertel jou stories.” The Go-To Guy Pakkette 1. Herhalende Pakkette: ’n Tuiste vir Jou Besigheid Business Card Standard (gratis):  Jou besigheid word in ons databasis gelys. Business Card Plus (R50 p/m):  ’n Hoër sigbaarheid, ’n “meer detail”-bladsy, foto’s en klikbare skakels. 2. Maandelikse Bemarkingspakkette: Starter Package (R499 p/m):  Webbie Page, Gazette-profiel, 1 gratis geleentheidslysing, Facebook-boosts, afslag op video’s. Growth Package (R1,499 p/m):  18 dae Facebook-boosts, eie rekeningbestuurder, gratis werksplasings, beter video-afslag. Premium Package (R4,499 p/m):  Strategie, professionele stories, maandelikse video’s, uitgebreide promosie, e-posveldtogte en analitiese verslag. 3. Ekstra en Eenmalige Dienste: Facebook-bladbestuur, Google- en TikTok-veldtogte. Video-advertensies vanaf R2,000. Baniere (R750 vir 7 dae). One Hit Gazette-artikels vanaf R1,200. #gimmietrots #gimmiehardewerk #gimmiemusiek #TheGoToGuy

Potchefstroom Girls High is celebrating a remarkable achievement as its Choir secured 1st place in the High School Treble Voice Choirs category at the prestigious Legato Choral Festival. This victory highlights the exceptional talent, dedication, and teamwork of the choir members and their leaders. Image: Potchefstroom Girls High A Double Nomination Both the Choir and Vocal Ensemble were nominated in this highly competitive category, showcasing the school’s reputation for musical excellence. These nominations are a reflection of countless hours of rehearsals, commitment, and passion from every member involved. Recognition for Ms Brink A heartfelt congratulations also goes to the choir’s phenomenal conductor, Ms Brink, who received a Special Commendation for her Inspiring Connection  with both the Choir and the Vocal Ensemble. Her dedication and leadership have played a key role in guiding the groups to this milestone. Image: Potchefstroom Girls High A Moment of Pride The Potch Girls High community is incredibly proud of the Choir, the Vocal Ensemble, and everyone involved in this success. “Your hard work and passion continue to make us proud!” Share Your School Story The Go-To Guy offers schools a platform to share their sports highlights, achievements, and stories. Schools and parents are invited to send us their news for publication. “We tell your story.” About The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  and www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom’s most comprehensive information platform, with over 75,000 page views per month. We share stories about the city, its people, businesses, and community through our Gazette news section and maintain a business directory with over 2,500 listed businesses. Our events calendar, with over 1,500 local events listed, is one of the most visited in the region. Additional sections include job listings, property boards, community contacts, and things to do, making The Go-To Guy the central information hub for Potchefstroom. Our social media network includes over 77,000 Facebook followers, a TikTok channel nearing 2 million views, and active profiles on Instagram, X, and various WhatsApp groups. Our live streaming studio produces weekly sports, community, and general-interest shows on Facebook and TikTok, while our Potch Gazette reaches 7,300+ subscribers monthly. Our content and journalism team covers local stories, sports, business, and community initiatives. With a mobile app and digital marketing options across Google, TikTok, and Facebook, we provide a full-service marketing solution. “We tell your stories.” The Go-To Guy Packages 1. Recurring Packages: A Home for Your Business Business Card Standard (Free):  Your business is listed in our database. Business Card Plus (R50/month):  Enhanced visibility, a detailed page, photos, and clickable links. 2. Monthly Marketing Packages: Starter Package (R499/month):  Webbie Page, Gazette profile, 1 free event listing, Facebook boosts, video discounts. Growth Package (R1,499/month):  18-day Facebook boosts, dedicated account manager, free job posts, bigger video discounts. Premium Package (R4,499/month):  Strategy sessions, professional stories, monthly videos, extensive promotion, email campaigns, and analytics. 3. Extra and One-off Services: Facebook page management, Google and TikTok campaigns. Video ads from R2,000. Banner ads (R750 for 7 days). One Hit Gazette articles from R1,200. #PotchGirlsHigh #PotchGirlsHighPride #LegatoChoralFestival #ChoirExcellence #TrebleVoices #MusicMatters #TheGoToGuy

Potchefstroom Central School (PCS) proudly participated in the Lerato Mahole Hockey Festival, hosted at Curro Klerksdorp from 25–26 July. This exciting annual event brought together hockey teams from across the North West, creating a weekend filled with intense matches, team spirit, and memorable sporting moments. Image: Potchefstroom Central School A Weekend of Hockey Action The festival is renowned for its competitive yet friendly atmosphere, offering young players a platform to showcase their talent, teamwork, and determination. PCS’s learners stepped onto the field with pride, representing their school in every match with energy and passion. “Play with heart, play as a team, and enjoy every moment”, this was the message from the school as the teams geared up for the weekend’s action. The players not only demonstrated their hockey skills but also embodied the values of sportsmanship and respect, both on and off the field. Results Coming Soon As the matches progress, PCS supporters are eagerly waiting for the final results. Regardless of the outcomes, the school is proud of every learner who gave their best on the turf. “We are proud of you!” was the cheer echoed throughout the festival. Share Your School Story The Go-To Guy offers schools a platform to share their sports highlights, achievements, and stories. Schools and parents are invited to send us their news for publication. “We tell your story.” About The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  and www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom’s most comprehensive information platform, with over 75,000 page views per month. We share stories about the city, its people, businesses, and community through our Gazette news section and maintain a business directory with over 2,500 listed businesses. Our events calendar, with over 1,500 local events listed, is one of the most visited in the region. Additional sections include job listings, property boards, community contacts, and things to do, making The Go-To Guy the central information hub for Potchefstroom. Our social media network includes over 77,000 Facebook followers, a TikTok channel nearing 2 million views, and active profiles on Instagram, X, and various WhatsApp groups. Our live streaming studio produces weekly sports, community, and general-interest shows on Facebook and TikTok, while our Potch Gazette reaches 7,300+ subscribers monthly. Our content and journalism team covers local stories, sports, business, and community initiatives. With a mobile app and digital marketing options across Google, TikTok, and Facebook, we provide a full-service marketing solution. “We tell your stories.” The Go-To Guy Packages 1. Recurring Packages: A Home for Your Business Business Card Standard (Free):  Your business is listed in our database. Business Card Plus (R50/month):  Enhanced visibility, a detailed page, photos, and clickable links. 2. Monthly Marketing Packages: Starter Package (R499/month):  Webbie Page, Gazette profile, 1 free event listing, Facebook boosts, video discounts. Growth Package (R1,499/month):  18-day Facebook boosts, dedicated account manager, free job posts, bigger video discounts. Premium Package (R4,499/month):  Strategy sessions, professional stories, monthly videos, extensive promotion, email campaigns, and analytics. 3. Extra and One-off Services: Facebook page management, Google and TikTok campaigns. Video ads from R2,000. Banner ads (R750 for 7 days). One Hit Gazette articles from R1,200. #PCSHockey #LeratoMaholeHockeyFestival #SchoolSports #CurroKlerksdorp #TheGoToGuy

Get ready to turn up the heat this August as BLK Lounge hosts a high-energy celebration that redefines empowerment, unity, and unapologetic fun. Women’s Day Reloaded  is landing on Saturday, 10 August 2025, and it is pulling out all the stops with free entrance for everyone. Image: BLK Lounge Headliners Bringing the Fire The event boasts a formidable all-women lineup designed to entertain, inspire, and elevate. At the forefront is the dynamic amapiano powerhouse Lady Du, whose chart-topping hits and unapologetic presence promise a headlining set like no other. Joining her is the versatile Shandes, known for her genre-blending sound, and a fierce supporting cast featuring: Mocheso – The rhythm queen behind the decks Sego Gal – Spinning a mix of house, amapiano, and pure vibes Giinja Flame – Bringing bold lyricism and unmatched stage presence To amplify the energy even more, Extra Love will be on the mic, serving as the vibrant host to guide the crowd through an unforgettable night. DJ Line-Up You Don’t Want to Miss Potchefstroom’s dance floors are in good hands with a solid crew of local and regional DJs including: Deepa La Musica Kaytee DJ Zodi Homer Beat Soul Expect seamless transitions, soul-stirring drops, and non-stop grooves that will keep the vibe flowing until the early hours. Event Details Date: Saturday, 10 August 2025 Venue:  BLK Lounge , 4 Zinn Street, Potchindustria, Potchefstroom Entrance: Free, all day and night Dress Code: Come as you are, but make it fabulous More Than Music – A Celebration of Women’s Strength More than just a party, Women’s Day Reloaded  pays tribute to the power, creativity, and resilience of women across South Africa. Expect a night full of good music, good people, and powerful moments of joy and togetherness. Save the Date and Spread the Word Mark your calendar and rally your squad. This is not just another party, it is a movement. Follow BLK Lounge on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes looks, and exclusive interviews with the performers.

Potchefstroom High School for Boys rugby teams recently faced off against Hoërskool Zeerust, delivering a day filled with excitement, skill, and determination. Our players showcased the results of their hard work and dedication with remarkable performances across all age groups. Image: Potchefstroom High School for Boys 1st Team Victory The first team dominated their match, securing a convincing 52-19 victory. This outstanding result reflects their technical ability, teamwork, and relentless drive on the field. U/16 and U/15 Results The U/16 team fought hard in a thrilling game, coming out on top with a 29-23 win. Their perseverance and spirit made all the difference. The U/15 team, despite a challenging match and a 12-36 loss against Zeerust, played with courage and determination, earning respect for their unwavering effort. A Word of Thanks A big thank you goes out to the staff, coaches, and supporters who made this day possible and cheered on the teams from the sidelines. We are proud of every player who stepped onto the field and represented our school with pride. Share Your School Story The Go-To Guy offers schools a platform to share their sports highlights, achievements, and stories. Schools and parents are invited to send us their news for publication. “We tell your story.” About The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  and www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom’s most comprehensive information platform, with over 75,000 page views per month. We share stories about the city, its people, businesses, and community through our Gazette news section and maintain a business directory with over 2,500 listed businesses. Our events calendar, with over 1,500 local events listed, is one of the most visited in the region. Additional sections include job listings, property boards, community contacts, and things to do, making The Go-To Guy the central information hub for Potchefstroom. Our social media network includes over 77,000 Facebook followers, a TikTok channel nearing 2 million views, and active profiles on Instagram, X, and various WhatsApp groups. Our live streaming studio produces weekly sports, community, and general-interest shows on Facebook and TikTok, while our Potch Gazette reaches 7,300+ subscribers monthly. Our content and journalism team covers local stories, sports, business, and community initiatives. With a mobile app and digital marketing options across Google, TikTok, and Facebook, we provide a full-service marketing solution. “We tell your stories.” The Go-To Guy Packages 1. Recurring Packages: A Home for Your Business Business Card Standard (Free):  Your business is listed in our database. Business Card Plus (R50/month):  Enhanced visibility, a detailed page, photos, and clickable links. 2. Monthly Marketing Packages: Starter Package (R499/month):  Webbie Page, Gazette profile, 1 free event listing, Facebook boosts, video discounts. Growth Package (R1,499/month):  18-day Facebook boosts, dedicated account manager, free job posts, bigger video discounts. Premium Package (R4,499/month):  Strategy sessions, professional stories, monthly videos, extensive promotion, email campaigns, and analytics. 3. Extra and One-off Services: Facebook page management, Google and TikTok campaigns. Video ads from R2,000. Banner ads (R750 for 7 days). One Hit Gazette articles from R1,200. #RugbyResults #GimmiePride #HoërskoolZeerust #SchoolSports #TheGoToGuy

Hierdie week is ’n spesiale mylpaal vir Laerskool M.L. Fick (Emmies) - die skool vier sy 135ste bestaansjaar op Woensdag, 30 Julie. Met ’n geskiedenis wat strek oor meer as ’n eeu, is Emmies ’n trotse instelling in die Potchefstroom-gemeenskap en ’n plek waar generasies reeds groot drome en prestasies koester. Image: Laerskool M.L Fick ’n Feesweek vol Aktiwiteite Die vieringe vind plaas tydens ’n besige week vol sport en kultuuraktiwiteite, insluitend hokkiewedstryde, kooroptredes en skyfskietligas. Op die verjaarsdag self sal daar ook ’n koekverkoping en ouer­aand (17:00 – 18:30) plaasvind, wat ouers, leerders en oudleerlinge die kans gee om saam herinneringe te deel. 135 Jaar van Nalatingskap Van sy beskeie begin tot vandag, het Emmies hom gevestig as ’n skool wat trots is op sy kernwaardes van onderwys, sport, kultuur en gemeenskap. Die viering van die 135ste bestaansjaar is nie net ’n terugblik op geskiedenis nie, maar ook ’n inspirasie vir die toekoms, ’n herinnering dat “Emmies se kaarte reg lê.” Deel Jou Skoolstorie The Go-To Guy vertel die stories van skole, leerders en gemeenskappe. Skole en ouers word uitgenooi om hul nuus en hoogtepunte vir publikasie met ons te deel. “Ons vertel jou storie.” Oor The Go-To Guy The Go-To Guy ( www.thegotoguy.co.za  en www.potchefstroom.com ) is Potchefstroom se mees omvattende inligtingsplatform met meer as 75,000 bladsybesoeke per maand. Ons vertel die stories van die stad, sy mense, sy besighede en sy gemeenskap via ons Gazette-nuusafdeling, en bied ’n besigheidsgids met meer as 2,500 gelyste besighede. Ons geleentheidskalender bevat al meer as 1,500 plaaslike geleenthede en is een van die mees besoekte in die streek. Met bykomende afdelings vir werk, eiendom, gemeenskapskontakte en dinge om te doen, is The Go-To Guy die sentrale inligtingsbron vir Potchefstroom. Ons sosiale media-platforms sluit in meer as 77,000 Facebook-volgers, ’n TikTok-kanaal met byna 2 miljoen kyke, en aktiewe profiele op Instagram, X en verskeie WhatsApp-groepe. Ons live streaming-studio bied weeklikse sport-, gemeenskaps- en ander program-uitsendings, terwyl ons Potch Gazette maandeliks meer as 7,300 intekenare bereik. Ons joernalistieke span fokus op plaaslike stories, sport, besigheid en gemeenskapsinisiatiewe. Met ’n mobiele app, sowel as digitale advertensie-opsies op Google, TikTok en Facebook, bied ons ’n volledige bemarkingsoplossing. Ons slagspreuk: “Ons vertel jou stories.” The Go-To Guy Pakkette 1. Herhalende Pakkette: ’n Tuiste vir Jou Besigheid Business Card Standard (gratis):  Jou besigheid word in ons databasis gelys. Business Card Plus (R50 p/m):  ’n Hoër sigbaarheid, ’n “meer detail”-bladsy, foto’s en klikbare skakels. 2. Maandelikse Bemarkingspakkette: Starter Package (R499 p/m):  Webbie Page, Gazette-profiel, 1 gratis geleentheidslysing, Facebook-boosts, afslag op video’s. Growth Package (R1,499 p/m):  18 dae Facebook-boosts, eie rekeningbestuurder, gratis werksplasings, beter video-afslag. Premium Package (R4,499 p/m):  Strategie, professionele stories, maandelikse video’s, uitgebreide promosie, e-posveldtogte en analitiese verslag. 3. Ekstra en Eenmalige Dienste: Facebook-bladbestuur, Google- en TikTok-veldtogte. Video-advertensies vanaf R2,000. Baniere (R750 vir 7 dae). One Hit Gazette-artikels vanaf R1,200. #Emmies135 #EmmieTrots #LaerskoolMLFick #Potchefstroom #TheGoToGuy

Running a small business in South Africa is rewarding, but let’s face it, marketing can be tough on a tight budget. You want to get the word out about your great local business, but you’re not ready (or able) to commit to expensive long-term advertising contracts. Sound familiar? The good news is that there’s a friendly local solution for you. The Go-To Guy, a community-focused marketing platform based right here in Potchefstroom, offers once-off advertising packages that give your business a quick boost when you need it , with no long-term strings attached. Image: The Go-To Guy Creations In this article, we’ll chat about four of The Go-To Guy’s one-time advertising offerings. From fun video ads to eye-catching articles, these options are designed for entrepreneurs and local business owners who need maximum impact on a minimal budget. We’ll break down each package (with costs in Rands) and explain how it can help your  business shine. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of where to put your limited marketing funds, and how to get started. Let’s dive in! 🎥 Marketing Video – R2,000 Lights, camera, action, without the drama! A Marketing Video from The Go-To Guy is a short, authentic video advertisement custom-made for your business. The Go-To Guy team will either visit you on-site or invite you to their studio for a relaxed filming session. No need to be nervous, they specialise in creating videos that are both fun and genuinely reflective of your business. That means no stiff, scripted ads that feel out of touch; just real conversations and visuals that capture who you are and what you offer. For a once-off cost of R2,000, you get a professionally edited video clip that you can share on social media, your website, or anywhere you promote your business. Why consider a video? Well, people love watching short clips online, it’s one of the most engaging ways to tell your story. Imagine a cheerful video of you explaining your product or showing your shop, with customers getting a sense of your personality and passion. That personal touch helps build trust and familiarity. This Marketing Video can serve as a powerful introduction to your brand, making potential customers feel like they’ve met you. In a community like ours, relationships matter, and a friendly face on camera goes a long way. Is a Marketing Video right for you?  If you have a special story to tell or a demonstration that would grab attention, this could be your best one-off investment. It’s especially useful for businesses that are visual in nature (think food, fashion, crafts, or any service where seeing is believing). Even if your business is more service-oriented (like consulting or repairs), a warm “meet the owner”  style video can set you apart from competitors. Plus, you can reuse the video in the future, it’s your content to keep! 📣 Banner Display Ad – R1,499 If you’re looking for quick online visibility without the effort of creating content, the Banner Display Ad might be just the ticket. This package places a digital banner advertisement on The Go-To Guy’s website for 7 days. Every visitor to the site will see your banner and can click it to connect directly to your business, whether that’s your website, an online menu or booking form, your Facebook page, or any other link you provide. It’s like having a billboard on a busy street in town, except it’s online on a platform locals trust. For R1,499, your banner ad runs for a full week, catching the eyes of everyone who browses the site. This is great for limited-time promotions or events: maybe you’re running a weekend sale, opening a new branch, or hosting a special launch event. Put up a banner and let the local community know! The Go-To Guy team will help make sure your banner is attractive and clear, so even a quick glance delivers your key message. One big plus: even if you don’t have a website, you can still use this ad effectively. You could link the banner to a simple contact form or your business’s social media page. Essentially, the Banner Display Ad drives interested people straight to you. For small businesses that need instant visibility boost without much fuss, this once-off package is a smart and affordable choice. 📰 One Hit Gazette – R1,200 Have a newsworthy story or announcement about your business? The One Hit Gazette is like getting your own featured article in the local paper, a one-off story crafted just for you. For R1,200, The Go-To Guy team will write and publish an article on their site all about your chosen topic. It could be anything: the story of how your business started, the arrival of an exciting new product, a community project you’re involved in, or an awesome sale you’re running. They’ll work with you to get the details right, including eye-catching images or artwork, some background research to add substance, and quotes or input from you to give it that personal touch. Once the article is live on The Go-To Guy’s website, it doesn’t just sit there. It gets boosted on Facebook for a week, targeting the audience that makes sense for your content. (The Go-To Guy has a following in the community, so your story will reach local eyes on social media without you spending extra on ads.) This means more readers will see and share your story. Essentially, the One Hit Gazette combines content creation and distribution in one neat package, you get a polished article and  a mini marketing campaign for it on Facebook. This option is perfect if you’re not keen on being in a video or if your message needs a bit more explaining than a banner can offer. For example, perhaps you run a tech start-up with a cool innovation, a written article can delve into the details and benefits. Or maybe you’re a bakery with a heart-warming story of how you started at the farmer’s market; an article can really capture that journey and emotion. Because the piece lives on the website, it also has a longer lifespan, someone might discover it weeks or months later when browsing local stories or Googling your type of business. And you can share the link on your own socials or email it to customers as well, showing off that you were “in the news”. It’s a one-time PR boost that can legitimize your business in the eyes of readers. 💼 Business Card Plus – R600 Think of this as the VIP upgrade for your business listing. If you’ve listed your company on The Go-To Guy’s directory (which many local businesses do for free), the Business Card Plus package will make your listing stand head and shoulders above the rest. For a very affordable R600 (once-off), your business gets bumped to the top of your chosen category in the directory and marked as a verified business. It’s like having a golden highlight, anyone browsing that category will see your name first, along with a special badge that says “this business is trusted and legit.” This enhanced listing stays in place for 12 months. That’s a full year of prime visibility for one low fee, which is great value for money for small businesses. Imagine you own a plumbing service and you’re listed under “Home Services” on the site. With Business Card Plus, when locals search or scroll that section, your business appears first, before any standard listings. In a world where people often choose from the top results (whether on Google or a local directory), that positioning can make a huge difference. It increases the likelihood that a potential customer clicks on your  listing to get your contact details or read more about you. The verified badge adds an extra layer of trust. It signals that you are an established business that The Go-To Guy team has vetted in some way. Consumers are more comfortable reaching out when they see that checkmark, it’s the online equivalent of a friend vouching for you. And because this lasts a year, it’s not a fleeting boost; it’s a steady advantage that keeps working for you in the background. Think of it like a VIP pass in a crowded venue, you get to skip the queue and stand in the spotlight. For new businesses and veterans alike, if you’re budgeting carefully, R600 for a year-long leg up is a no-brainer to maintain your visibility locally. 🤔 Which Package Suits You Best? With four different once-off options, you might wonder “So, which one should I choose?” The answer depends on your current goal and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide: If you want to show (not just tell) people what you’re about:  A Marketing Video is ideal. It’s our priciest option, but it gives you a lively, shareable piece of content that can introduce your business to customers in a personal way. Great for visual impact and storytelling. If you can invest a little more, this can pay off big in customer engagement. If you need immediate online visibility for an offer or event:  Go for the Banner Display Ad. It’s a one-week splash on our site that drives people straight to your online doorstep. Perfect for short-term promotions, seasonal specials, or just getting your name out there quickly. If you have a story to tell or an announcement:  The One Hit Gazette gives you a full article and a week of Facebook buzz at a mid-range price. This is excellent for explaining something in depth, whether it’s news, an achievement, or educational content about your industry. It doubles as content you can proudly share around. If your budget is tight or you want long-term steady exposure:  The Business Card Plus listing upgrade is a steal for just R600. It keeps your business prominently visible in the directory for a whole year. This is a smart foundational move, set it up, and you’ll consistently be front-and-centre when locals search the site in your category. Many business owners actually combine a couple of these strategies over time. For instance, you might start with a Business Card Plus (since it’s cheap and lasts long), and then when you have a special campaign, add on a Banner Ad or an Article to give that extra boost. Or after seeing success with your article, you might reinvest in a Marketing Video next quarter to further amplify your presence. It’s all about what your business needs right now. The beauty of once-off packages is you can pick what you need when  you need it, based on your budget at that moment, no ongoing commitments or subscriptions draining your finances. 🚀 How to Get Started Taking advantage of these packages is easier than making a cup of rooibos. Here’s how you can get the ball rolling with The Go-To Guy: Pick the package that fits your goal. Think about what you want to achieve this month. Do you want people to see  your product in action? Do you have news to share? Are you simply trying to be more visible online? Use the pointers above to choose one (or more) package that makes sense for you. Reach out to The Go-To Guy. Getting started is as simple as contacting the team. You can visit The Go-To Guy’s website and fill out the “Advertise Your Business” contact form, or drop them an email at theguy@thegotoguy.co.za . If you’re in the Potchefstroom area, they’re a local outfit – you could even call or visit their office (but the online route is usually quickest). Don’t worry, they’re friendly and happy to chat about what you need. Share your info and ideas. Once you’ve made contact, the Go-To Guy team will guide you through the next steps. They might ask for a few details: for a Marketing Video, they’ll schedule a time to film and discuss what message you want to get across; for a Banner Ad, you’ll need to provide any logos or images and the link you want the ad to go to; for the Gazette article, they’ll gather the story details from you; and for Business Card Plus, they’ll confirm your business details and category. Don’t worry if you’re not a marketing expert – they’ll handle the heavy lifting, like writing copy or designing artwork. You just need to provide the raw info and your unique business story or offer. Let them work their magic. After you’ve given the go-ahead and provided what’s needed, the team will get to work creating your content or setting up your listing. They’ve done this many times, so you can relax knowing you’re in good hands. They’ll likely send you a preview or get your approval (especially for articles or videos) to make sure you’re happy with the result. Enjoy the boost! Once your video is filmed and uploaded, your banner is live, or your article is published and boosted on Facebook, you’ll start seeing the impact. Be ready for new visitors, calls, or social media inquiries coming your way. It might help to keep an eye on your website or Facebook insights if you have them, just to track the bump in traffic or engagement. And don’t forget to interact with any new audience, if people comment on the Facebook article or mention your cool new video, jump in and say hi! Building those relationships is what it’s all about. Finally, remember that you’re not alone in this marketing journey. The Go-To Guy’s mission is to help local businesses like yours get the spotlight they deserve. They understand the challenges of a small biz owner, limited time, limited budget, but lots of passion. These once-off packages were created exactly  with that in mind: affordable, effective bursts of marketing when you need them. No waste, no unnecessary frills. Marketing your business doesn’t have to be overwhelming or break the bank. Whether you opt for a vibrant video, a handy banner ad, a compelling article in the “gazette”, or a boosted directory listing, you’re taking a positive step to grow your business’s presence in our community. Every little bit of exposure helps, today’s one-off ad could bring tomorrow’s loyal customer. So go on, give your business that boost. With The Go-To Guy’s once-off advertising packages, you can put your name out there in a way that suits your style and  your pocket. We’re excited to see local entrepreneurs and businesses in our area shine, and we hope these options help you do just that. Here’s to your business’s next big step forward, let’s get your story told and those doors swinging! Good luck, and happy growing!  #GoToGuy #Potchefstroom #LocalBusiness #AdvertiseLocal #BusinessBoost #SupportLocal #SmallBusinessZA #MarketingMadeEasy #GrowYourBiz #LocalIsLekker #EntrepreneurZA #OnceOffPackages

Growing up in the 1980s was a world away from what we see today. Children’s daily lives have undergone a dramatic transformation, shifting from outdoor adventures and face-to-face play to a more screen-driven, technology-infused lifestyle. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations This change is evident in Potchefstroom, South Africa, just as it is around the globe. In this post, we’ll explore how activities, routines, and environments for kids have evolved from the ’80s to the present, and reflect on what these changes mean for creativity, social interaction, and physical well-being. (We’ll even leave you with a nudge to visit our local parks in Potchefstroom to recapture some of that outdoor magic.) Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Growing Up in the 1980s: Outdoor Adventures and Imagination   Children playing outside with simple toys, running and laughing together ,a common afternoon in the 1980s. Back then, play was often powered by imagination and boundless energy.  In the ’80s, childhood was largely an outdoor experience. Many adults in Potchefstroom remember long days riding bikes down quiet streets, climbing trees, kicking a soccer ball in a dusty yard, or inventing games with friends until the sun went down. It was normal for kids to roam the neighborhood with minimal adult supervision, engaging in unstructured, make-believe play with peers. A simple backyard could become a castle, a spaceship, or a jungle in a child’s eyes. As one expert notes, decades ago it was common for kids to “run around outside with minimal adult interference,” roughhousing and role-playing freely . Technology was limited to perhaps a radio or a family TV set, so most play was face-to-face and physical. Friends would knock on each other’s doors to ask if they could come out and play. Games like tag, hide-and-seek, or kicking around a ball required nothing more than imagination and willing playmates. This hands-on, active play  helped kids learn social skills and kept them fit without it feeling like exercise, it was just fun. If you grew up in that era, you might recall how creative play could be. A stick could become a magic wand or a toy sword; an old tire could turn into a swing. Children crafted forts from blankets, raced homemade go-carts, or pretended to be superheroes saving the world. Being bored was never an option for long, if nothing was on TV (and in South Africa in the ’80s there were only a couple of channels with limited kids’ programming), you made your own entertainment. Screen time as we know it today simply didn’t exist; in fact, “the term ‘screen time’ wasn’t a thing yet” in the late 1980s . Kids might have caught a favorite cartoon at a scheduled time or played 8-bit video games at a friend’s house occasionally, but these were small slices of life, not the main course. The fundamental nature  of childhood was to be active and outdoors, so much so that one report notes childhood in one generation shifted from mostly outside to mostly indoors . In the ’80s, parents commonly told kids “go out and play,” trusting that play was how children learn and grow. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Childhood Today: Screens, Schedules, and Digital Play   A modern child engrossed in a glowing smartphone screen indoors. Today’s youngsters are surrounded by interactive devices from an early age.  Fast forward to today, and childhood looks very different. Many children in Potchefstroom (and around the world) now spend a large portion of their day indoors, engaged with electronic screens. Tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and 24/7 children’s TV channels provide endless entertainment at the tap of a finger. It’s not unusual for a child to spend an afternoon watching YouTube, messaging friends, or navigating virtual worlds, rather than climbing a tree or riding a bike. In fact, studies have documented a sharp flip in how kids spend their time: children today devote only minutes  per day to unstructured outdoor play, but hours upon hours to electronic media. One striking report found that on average, kids now spend just 4 to 7 minutes playing outside in unstructured ways, versus about 7.5 hours a day consumed by TV, video games, and other screens . This is a staggering change from a few decades ago. Several factors have driven this shift toward indoor, screen-based play. Technology is an obvious one – the explosion of personal devices and the internet created new forms of play that simply didn’t exist in the 1980s. Today’s children can video-chat their friends, explore vast imaginary worlds in video games, or watch cartoons on demand. As one education expert put it, “technology has changed the way kids play”. On the one hand, kids now have the amazing ability to play games with people all around the globe online. But on the other hand, “there’s been a big disappearance in general neighborhood play,” with far fewer kids just out playing in the street with friends . In essence, online communities have partly replaced the physical community of the playground. Parental attitudes and society have changed as well. Since the late 20th century, parents have become more cautious about safety, sometimes termed the “stranger danger”  era. High-profile news stories about child abductions and accidents in the 1980s scared many families, leading parents to keep a closer eye on kids. Even though such incidents were statistically rare, the fear was real. Research shows that since the 1980s, worries about kidnapping, traffic accidents, and violence have made parents much less willing to let kids play outside unsupervised . In South Africa, concerns about traffic and crime also mean many parents today prefer to know their child is safe at home rather than wandering the neighborhood. This well-intentioned caution often translates into kids spending more time indoors. At the same time, schools and extracurricular activities now demand more of children’s schedules. Academic competition intensified over the years, prompting longer school hours and more homework. In some places, recess periods grew shorter or even vanished in the 1990s as schools focused on test scores . By the time they get home, many kids have structured activities or homework, leaving less daylight for free play. All these cultural shifts, safety concerns, busier schedules, and the lure of high-tech entertainment, have fundamentally reshaped  what childhood looks like. Today’s kids are often overseen or scheduled when they do play outside. The casual, “be back by sunset” play of the past has been replaced in many families by playdates arranged by parents, supervised trips to the park, or organized sports practice. It’s far less common to see a pack of children spontaneously knocking on doors to gather friends for a game of cricket in the street. Instead, if outdoor play happens, it might be during a structured soccer club or under a teacher’s eye during a brief recess. In other words, childhood play has become more structured and adult-guided than it was in the 1980s . Meanwhile, indoor leisure is often solitary or with virtual companions. Even when multiple kids share a living room, you might find each on their own device rather than inventing a game together. The result is a generation that’s highly tech-savvy and connected in digital ways, yet perhaps less experienced with the kind of free-form, in-person play that earlier generations took for granted. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations What Changed? Cultural, Social, and Technological Shifts The evolution from outdoor play to screen play didn’t happen overnight ,it was driven by several cultural, social, and technological changes over the past few decades. Let’s unpack a few key differences that shaped this transformation: Technology Boom:   The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought an onslaught of new technology into homes. In the 1980s, personal computers and video game consoles were just emerging; by the 2000s, many households had internet access, and by the 2010s, smartphones and tablets became commonplace even for kids. This tech boom created new entertainment options that often competed with traditional play . Why ride your bike in the heat when you can race virtual cars on a screen? Why build a fort from couch cushions when Minecraft lets you build a digital castle? Over time, the digital world grew more enticing as it became more immersive and accessible. Smartphones and tablets crowded out many analog forms of fun, as researchers observed, kids today spend notably less time on old-fashioned outdoor play because “they were playing with devices” instead . In short, as screens multiplied, they steadily displaced some of the physical pastimes of earlier years. Safety Concerns and Supervision:  As mentioned, the 1980s and 1990s saw rising anxiety among parents about letting kids roam freely. Media reports of rare tragedies created a widespread perception that “outside” was dangerous. In response, parenting norms shifted toward greater supervision. Terms like “helicopter parenting”  entered the lexicon, describing adults who constantly hover to ensure their child’s safety. Compared to the somewhat laissez-faire parenting of the ’80s, today’s parents are generally more involved in arranging and overseeing their children’s activities. This came from a good place, every parent wants their child safe, but it contributed to kids spending more time indoors or in structured settings rather than exploring independently. Neighborhoods also changed: heavy traffic and urban development mean some areas simply aren’t as pedestrian-friendly for kids as they once were. (Experts point out that modern cars are larger and streets busier, which understandably makes parents worry about letting kids bike around freely .) In Potchefstroom, while we still have many quiet residential areas, parents might recall a time when it felt safer to let a ten-year-old walk to a friend’s house alone. Nowadays, that scenario is less common. Social and Cultural Shifts:   The way families and communities socialize has also changed. Families today might be smaller, and people may not know their neighbors as well as before, leading to fewer impromptu gatherings of kids on the block. There’s also a trend toward indoor entertainment culture , things like malls, movie theaters, and indoor play zones have become go-to options, especially in urban settings, whereas a generation ago kids were more likely to create their own fun at home or in the yard. Additionally, both parents working full-time has become more common, meaning kids often spend after-school hours in daycare or at home on devices until parents return from work. In the 1980s, if one parent was home or a grandparent lived nearby, children had someone around to send them outside or watch them play. Today, a tablet can become the babysitter for better or worse. Culturally, there’s also more emphasis on academic and extracurricular achievement. Many kids are shuttled between tutoring, music lessons, sports, and clubs, all great opportunities, but they leave less free time  for simple play and relaxation. All of these factors intertwine. The result is a new childhood landscape: one where digital play and cautious parenting are the norm, replacing the free-range, imaginative play that thrived in the ’80s. This shift has profound implications for children’s development. Let’s reflect on some of the key effects on creativity, social skills, and physical health. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Impact on Creativity and Imagination One of the biggest questions about this generational shift is: What does it mean for children’s creativity?  Free, imaginative play, the kind that was ubiquitous in the 1980s, is known to be a powerful driver of creativity. When kids invent games with nothing but their minds and whatever objects are at hand, they learn to think outside the box. They practice storytelling, problem-solving, and make-believe, which are all foundations of creative thought . n contrast, much of today’s screen-based entertainment provides ready-made stories and images, leaving less to the imagination. For example, watching a cartoon or playing a scripted video game is a more passive kind of fun than, say, pretending to be explorers in the backyard. Over time, could this lead to a creativity gap? Research suggests that constant digital stimulation can  indeed hamper some aspects of imagination. Modern devices deliver fast-paced, high-quality visuals and instant gratification, which means children don’t experience boredom as often as kids in the past did. Yet boredom can be a good thing , in fact, experts remind us that “boredom is the space in which creativity and imagination happen”. In the 1980s, kids who said “I’m bored” would eventually be forced to invent something fun, whether it was drawing, building a model, or organizing a pretend adventure. That downtime spurred them to create. Today, if a child is bored, it’s very easy to hand them a tablet full of games or videos, immediately filling that creative void with pre-made content. Moreover, digital play often has pre-defined rules and limitations (you have to follow the game’s programming), whereas make-believe play has no limits except a child’s creativity. Specialists in child development note that on-screen activities typically provide “impoverished” stimulation compared to reality , they engage sight and sound, but don’t involve the full sensory and imaginative range of real-world play. A video game about building a farm, for instance, can’t replicate the rich tactile and social experience of actually planting a garden with friends. Because of this, heavy reliance on screens might exercise creativity less. One pediatrician explains that digital media use, if not balanced, may stunt the full creative development of the brain, whereas diverse offline experiences (like free play, reading, art, and exploring nature) give the brain a chance to daydream and invent freely . However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Kids are naturally creative, and many do channel their creativity through  technology in interesting ways. For example, children might use a tablet to draw artwork, code simple games, or build elaborate structures in Minecraft (a virtual form of Lego). During the recent pandemic, researchers observed that children’s playfulness and creativity were resilient  ,kids found ways to be imaginative even when stuck at home, whether by doing lots of drawing or turning trampoline time into a game . And as one anecdote showed, even today a child with a simple stuffed animal can imagine it into “many different objects” , a top, an accordion, anything . So, creativity is still there , but the concern is that it needs to be nurtured more consciously now. If we give kids endless ready-made entertainment, we should also remember to give them opportunities to be bored and invent something new . That might mean occasionally turning off the TV or iPad and encouraging them to play with physical toys or simply go outside and see where their imagination takes them. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Impact on Social Interaction and Friendships Think about how children used to socialize versus how they often do now. In the 1980s, much of a child’s social learning happened through face-to-face interactions, playing in groups, negotiating rules of a game, resolving playground squabbles, or cooperating to build a fort. These in-person activities taught kids vital social skills: how to read someone’s mood by their facial expression, how to communicate your ideas clearly, and how to empathize and share. When kids gathered every day after school, they formed tight-knit neighborhood friendships and a strong sense of community. Even siblings spent a lot of time interacting directly, because there were fewer devices to silo each person into their own little digital world. Today’s children still socialize, but the medium and quality  of interaction have changed. Many interactions are now digital , texting friends, commenting on each other’s TikTok videos, or chatting through a headset during an online game. While these forms of communication connect kids across distances and can be convenient, they lack the richness of face-to-face contact. Children may miss out on learning subtle body language or tone of voice when most conversations happen via emoji or instant messages. Psychologists warn that when physical play is replaced by phones and tablets, it can be bad for kids’ social development, including their ability to read facial cues and body language . In essence, if children spend more time looking at screens than at people’s faces, they get less practice in the nuanced art of person-to-person interaction. Another aspect is that online socializing sometimes lets kids avoid conflict or skip deeper engagement. If you disagreed with a friend in a sandbox in 1985, you had to figure out how to compromise or you’d both go home upset ,a learning moment. In an online game or chat, a child can simply log off or mute the other person. The interactions can be more fleeting and curated; you interact when you want and can disengage easily, which is not how real-life friendship works. Furthermore, playing alone on a device (even if virtually connected to others) can be isolating. A child might spend hours on social media and still feel lonely because they haven’t had any real  shared experiences that build bonds. There’s also evidence that heavy use of screen media in early childhood can affect communication skills. For instance, young children learn language and emotional cues through conversation and responsive interaction with adults. Excessive screen time, especially if it replaces talking with caregivers, can diminish the quantity and quality of those interactions , potentially slowing language development and social confidence . It’s not that screens cause  social problems outright, but they can reduce opportunities for rich social learning. On the other hand, technology isn’t all negative for social life. Many children use apps to stay in touch with faraway family, collaborate on school projects using online tools, or join group games that teach teamwork (for example, cooperating in a multiplayer game). Teenagers might find online communities where they feel they belong, especially if they have niche interests. These can be positive experiences. But the general consensus among child development experts is that balance is key . Nothing quite replaces playing together in person. The laughter from a group of friends all piled on a swing set, the lessons learned from sharing toys, or the empathy gained by comforting a friend who fell down, those are experiences unique to real life. So, while kids today are incredibly connected in a digital sense, the challenge is ensuring they also build strong in-person social skills. Encouraging activities like team sports, play groups, or just unstructured hangouts can help modern children practice communication, cooperation, and friendship in the real world. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Impact on Physical Well-Being and Health When it comes to physical activity and health, the contrast between then and now is perhaps the most visible. Childhood in the 1980s was typically full of movement: running, climbing, biking, walking to school, and active play were everyday occurrences. Kids didn’t need “exercise” because play naturally kept them on the go. In doing so, they developed gross motor skills (running, jumping, throwing) and endurance. Additionally, being outside under the sun gave them fresh air and Vitamin D, and all that movement helped keep childhood obesity rates relatively low. If you compare statistics, the difference over time is striking, for example, in the United States, the percentage of children who were obese was only about 7% in 1980, but by 2010 it had ballooned to nearly 18%. Similarly, teen obesity went from 5% to 18% in that period . While many factors contribute to obesity, experts point to declining physical activity as a major cause, alongside changes in diet. Kids who used to burn calories playing outside now often lead more sedentary lives. Today’s screen-centered lifestyle means children are spending a lot more time sitting. Whether it’s in front of a TV, hunched over a phone, or at a computer for homework, hours of inactivity have become normal. This sedentary behavior can affect not just weight, but also muscle and bone development, coordination, and overall fitness. Health professionals are concerned that children who rarely climb trees, skip rope, or play tag may struggle with tasks that previous generations found easy, like balancing, throwing a ball, or even maintaining good posture. Indeed, replacing active play with screen time has been linked to poorer gross motor skill  development . Kids aren’t using their large muscles as much when their play involves swiping a touchscreen or clicking buttons. Over years, less movement can mean weaker muscles and lower agility. Furthermore, less outdoor play means fewer opportunities for kids to exercise their bodies naturally. Riding a bicycle to school or the park, for instance, builds cardiovascular health and leg strength. If that bike ride is replaced by a car ride (because parents feel it’s safer to drive them) and the park time is replaced by video games, children simply don’t get the same workout. The result can be a higher risk of childhood obesity, as we’ve seen, and related health issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure showing up at younger ages. Inactive habits developed in childhood can carry into adulthood, potentially leading to long-term health consequences. There’s also a well-being aspect beyond just raw fitness. Physical play often correlates with better sleep and mood. A child who runs around playing soccer for an hour will likely sleep more soundly than one who spent that hour in front of a tablet. Regular physical activity is known to reduce stress and anxiety, it’s a natural outlet for energy and emotions. When kids swap play time for screen time, they might miss out on those mood-lifting benefits of exercise. Some researchers even argue that the decline in active, independent play is one factor in the rise of anxiety and depression among young people . The logic is that exercise and play help regulate mood, and the independence kids gain by managing their own playtime builds confidence. Without those, children could be more prone to stress. In summary, the move from outdoor play to indoor screen time has clear implications for kids’ physical health. We see more sedentary kids, higher obesity rates, and possibly less robust motor skills. The good news is that children’s bodies are resilient, reintroducing regular active play can quickly improve fitness and health. It’s just a matter of finding that balance in the modern world, ensuring that technology doesn’t completely edge out movement. After all, those “bike rides and backyard games” of the past were not only fun, but also secretly very healthy . Image : The Go-To Guy Creations Finding Balance: Keeping the Best of Both Eras Reflecting on these changes, it’s clear that each era of childhood has its pros and cons. The 1980s offered kids freedom, fresh air, and fertile ground for imagination, but it lacked the amazing global connectivity and information access that kids have today. Now, we live in an age of incredible technology and knowledge at our fingertips, yet we risk losing some of the simple joys and developmental benefits of unplugged play. The challenge for parents, educators, and communities is to strike a healthy balance, embracing the benefits of modern technology while preserving opportunities for children to play, create, socialize, and exercise in the real world. For families in Potchefstroom, one way to encourage that balance is to take advantage of our local outdoor spaces. Our city is fortunate to have parks and natural areas where children can safely run and explore. A visit to the Potchefstroom Dam for a picnic and a game of frisbee, or an outing to the OPM Prozesky Bird Sanctuary for a walk and some bird-spotting, can reconnect kids with nature and unstructured play. (Here, you might include a link to a guide or list of local Potchefstroom parks to encourage readers to get outside.)   By making it a routine to go to the park on weekends or to kick a ball around in the backyard each evening, we remind children that fun doesn’t only come from screens. It can come from the splash of water  as you skip a stone on the Mooi River, the thrill of chasing a friend in a game of tag, or the creativity of building a den from sticks and leaves. Communities and schools can also help by providing safe, inviting play spaces. Playgrounds, sports fields, and community parks are essential “outdoor classrooms” where kids learn and grow. The more we invest in these spaces, the more we signal to young people that outdoor play is valued. In recent years, some places have started initiatives to reclaim play opportunities, for example, certain cities overseas have closed off streets for children to play safely , and some schools are reintroducing longer recess by law . These ideas recognize that play is not a luxury; it’s a necessity  for healthy development. Potchefstroom’s own parks and school grounds can serve as arenas for this kind of free play revival. Ultimately, while we can’t simply turn back the clock to 1985 (and few of us would give up the benefits of progress), we can learn from the past to improve the present. Children need a mix of both worlds: the rich imaginative play and active friendship of yesteryear, and the digital literacy and global awareness of today. It might mean consciously unplugging more often, setting limits on screen time, and encouraging kids to engage in sports, arts, and outdoor adventures. The reward is children who are not only tech-savvy, but also creative, socially adept, and physically healthy. Image : The Go-To Guy Creations In conclusion The journey from mud pies to touchscreens has been a remarkable one, redefining childhood within a generation. The differences in activities, routines, and environments between the 1980s and now are vast, shaped by cultural shifts and technological leaps. As we’ve seen, these changes have impacts on creativity, social interaction, and physical well-being that we’re only beginning to fully understand. Yet one thing remains constant: children have an innate capacity to play, to imagine, and to find joy in their world. Our role as the adults in their lives is to make sure that world includes plenty of room, both online and offline, for them to be kids. So next time you see your child engrossed in a video on a tablet, maybe invite them outside for a bit, or plan a family day at Potchefstroom’s parks. Let’s help our kids enjoy the best of both eras, keeping the spirit of outdoor, imaginative play alive even as we welcome the wonders of modern technology. After all, a childhood that blends tree-climbing and tech time might just produce the most well-rounded generation yet.

In this edition 29 Kock Street: Alleged Illegal Guesthouse  Love Potch and JB Marks Municipality Unite  Ikageng Cricket Hub Reborn Urgent intervention needed at Witrand Psychiatric Hospital StroomCares: Celebrating Mandela Day 2025  Ons maandelikse gebeurteniskalender hou jou op hoogte van alles wat gebeur PAWS Haven: A fresh start for animal welfare under new management  Gimmies skitter op sportveld en verhoog Volkies: Wilson Sport borg tekkies en word verteenwoordig by Karkloof Youth Festival Saints Christian School: 0/13 krieketspan wen vier van hul ses wedstryde  Hoërskool Wesvalia: Krieket en Atletiek wat Inspirasie Gee Klerksdorp Hoërskool: Rugby en Netbal Sterre Internasionale Glorie: Klerksdorp School of Gymnastics Gimmies se Andrea Steynberg verteenwoordig S-A in Nigerië A Closer Look at the 2025 Ford Ranger 2.0 Single Turbo XLT – Smart Value in a Rugged Package 29 Kock Street: Alleged Illegal Guesthouse Operation in Potchefstroom Despite lacking proper registration, a guesthouse at 29 Kock Street continues to operate openly; listed on Booking.com  and promoted across various online platforms. This article investigates the ongoing contravention and its implications for the Potchefstroom community. We were made aware of this facility, advertised as Potch Guest House, by Ward 15 Councillor, Madra de Bruin, after they had contacted the JB Marks Municipality and sent a formal letter on the 24th of November 2024 already, but had received no response whatsoever. Having heard nothing still, we reached out to Councillor Swarts regarding this matter. The Communications Department replied to our query about this serious issue, where they informed us that: “The owner has been served with two notices to remedy illegal land use. The first notice was [issued] on the 11th of December 2024.” When asked whether any action had been taken by the owner, we received no response to this day. The letter, composed and compiled by various members of the community alongside Councillor de Bruin, was handed over to the JB Marks Municipality on the 24th of November 2024. This letter was addressed to the office of the Speaker, the office of the Municipal Manager, and the office of the Executive Mayor. This letter states that the guesthouse has been operating as such without any formal application, approval, or input from the ward committee - as required by law. Before registering and operating as any company and/or business, there are certain boxes that need to be checked across the board. The participating ward members requested proof of zoning compliance, evidence of approved applications, sewerage capacity study, and a traffic impact study in the letter to Mr. Melamu, to no avail.   The guesthouse is situated on the corner of Kock and Smit Street, and due to there being no traffic impact study, there is nearly a collision every day, as The High School for Girls Potchefstroom is right across the street as well.  We headed over to Booking.com  to take a look at this establishment and we were shocked for two reasons:  How did this establishment manage to register on this platform? How is this guesthouse still operating? There are certain requirements needed before an individual can register an establishment on Booking.com , the first being legal compliance. It clearly states that “the accommodation must be registered with relevant tax authorities and comply with all permits, licenses, and other governmental authorizations”.   So how did this guesthouse manage to either evade these requirements or falsify the documents? In a country where fraud is at the order of the day, it’s not hard to imagine how the owners managed these ‘loopholes’. The reviews of Potch Guest House are not great either. Although there were some guests who praised the establishment, the majority had very bad experiences and didn’t shy away from sharing their experiences and warning other potential guests.  Some guests even went so far as to suggest that they be closed down. Perhaps it shouldn’t have been opened in the first place. The owners and/or management team are very passive aggressive when it comes to replying to these reviews, even though Booking.com  prides itself on “100% real reviews”.  A picture is worth a thousand words, yet we were left speechless after reading only a few reviews and taking a look at the photos that real guests posted and shared on this booking platform. It seems that the guesthouse is still operating, despite the horrendous reviews and cries from the community. Apart from all the legalities, the building is also an eyesore,  "The property's exterior has deteriorated substantially, negatively impacting the neighbourhood's aesthetic and property values." This is an ongoing story, as Councillor Madra keeps on following up with Councillor Swarts and relevant parties, but is left with nothing but radio silence.  We hope to update you with some positive feedback from the JB Marks Municipality with regards to Potch Guest House and its alleged illegal operations in the near future. Advertisement - Daly Ford Your Next Adventure Starts with the Ford Everest XLT - The Next-Gen Ford Everest XLT is now available through Daly Ford’s Blue Sky Offer, starting at just R9 999 per month. This limited-time deal doesn’t just put you behind the wheel of a powerful SUV, it gives you the keys to freedom, confidence, and a whole new driving experience. Love Potch and JB Marks Municipality Unite to Transform Local Open Area into Vibrant Green Space “There is a proverb that says it takes a village to raise a child, and in many cases, a park in town is almost like a child that we [as residents] adopt - and it certainly takes a village to raise a ‘child’ like this.” October 2024 saw the launch of Love Potch, an initiative stemming from the larger Love Cities movement. Under the leadership of local resident, Arno van den Berg, the yellow shirts are becoming a beacon of hope and positivity for Potchefstroom. Their latest project saw them take hands with the JB Marks Municipality to transform an open area into a ‘green space’ within the community. As with any big project, there are certain measurements that need to be in place before any action can be taken, and there will always be individuals who dare ask the question ‘Is this even legal?’ We reached out to Arno to raise the concerns of local residents about this new initiative.  The Love Potch Village “We are in direct contact with the local municipality, the ward councillor, environmental organisations, and specialists in the field of Environmental Conservation to effectively manage (clean) and maintain the proposed park.” He further mentioned that this forms part of a broader movement within our town to rejuvenate and maintain our public area’s green spaces. These ‘green spaces’ that Arno keeps referring to are places where families, children and individuals can enjoy and explore the great outdoors. It is also one of the key objectives that create the basis of Love Cities. Legal & Regulatory Compliance Cleaning up a space and utilising it for the benefit of the community seems like a great idea, but it leaves the question - can any individual pick up a spade and start digging (not so much in the sense of the word)?  “We are in full compliance of all necessary approvals to operate in the open areas in Potchefstroom and are in process to obtain formal approval from the JB Marks Municipality to manage, maintain and oversee different cleaning and clearing activities in and around town.” The process of gaining approval for a project of this magnitude is a tedious one, but it is worth it in the long run. All the necessary permissions for the clean-up of this specific area have been obtained, and the Love Potch team is excited to invite community members to become involved in taking ‘ownership’ of these green spaces. Active projects are run throughout all of the local parks to ensure that communities become involved in these and other initiatives launched by Love Potch. The JB Marks Municipality and its respective, relevant departments are involved in these projects, and have been a great partner to the Love Potch team. To hear about the cohesiveness between an organisation and the local municipality is truly inspiring. Environmental & Sustainability Considerations A concerned resident reached out to us about this planned clean-up and transformation of the open area in Van Der Hoffpark, and one of the main concerns was the impact that the partial removal of the reeds would have on the bird and insect life. We raised this concern with Love Potch, to which they responded:    “We draw from best practice models within our Love Cities network of partners, and work closely with environmental management specialists and organisations to ensure environmental sustainability, longevity and long-term environmental oversight and management.” As Arno mentioned later on, as with any project there are Environmental Impact Studies that need to be done before gaining approval. Furthermore, it should be noted that not all of the reeds will be removed, so the natural habitat of animals and organisms alike will not be completely destroyed. Community Involvement & Social Impact Another concern from the specific individual was the impact that this park would have on residents and the value of their property in the area, especially those who live in close proximity to the park.  “One of the core principles of Love Cities, and Love Potch as a local partner, is active citizenship. We endeavor to include residents and citizens of different communities regarding any and all projects that might affect them. The goal is to create a society where individuals and organisations are involved in their local environments. Different community consultation sessions take place, events are held for public participation and feedback is actively encouraged to reach a united outcome-based goal.” “It is well researched and supported that green area upliftment and rejuvenation initiatives in communities have a tremendous advantageous effect on many different aspects including but are not limited to: environmental benefits, biodiversity conservation and rehabilitation, storm water management, social and health benefits, economic development of the surrounding areas, property value increase, safety improvements and community engagement to name a few.” Operational & Project Management “Love Potch draws from best practice models as well as tried and tested approaches within our national network of partners to ensure project longevity and management. Long-term goals are always considered when implementing short-term activities.” Residents can rest assured that there will not be bulldozers showing up to scrape the land and start building a mountain bike track over a weekend. The aim is to clean up the park and possibly lay out a small hiking trail for now. Yes, the bike track might come, but only at a much later stage. As the saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’. Long-Term Sustainability and Financial Viability  Finally, looking at the bigger picture, we asked what the sustainability of this project looks like - not only for Love Potch as an organisation, but also for the town and its residents. The aim of this project isn’t to accumulate funds. Finances are not the focus of Love Cities - if a project happens to generate some income, it’s a win, but otherwise, it’s most definitely not the goal as to why they do what they do.  “Given the non-profit nature of Love Potch, finances generated through the organisation and donations will be directed towards project sustainability and channelled towards long-term project efficiency.”  They are in it for the long run. “Working alongside the local municipality and professionals in the field enables Love Potch to actively drive long-term sustainability with short-term projects forming part of a bigger picture movement of holistic community development.” Fortunately, there is a strong relationship between the JB Marks Municipality and Love Potch, and it is this relationship that will grow with each project taken on together with one goal in mind - to change the narrative of our vibrant town.  Call to Action The message is simple: Become involved in these projects and initiatives. We simply cannot sit back and wait for something to happen or somebody else to do something. If we, as residents, want to see Potchefstroom as the thriving city it once was, it is our responsibility to take action to transform and leave this a much better place - not only for ourselves, but for the generations to come.  If you have any questions or queries, want to volunteer during these projects, or you would like to make a contribution of any sort, feel free to contact Arno van den Berg at:  hello@lovepotch.org.za  or on  076 571 8480 Ikageng Cricket Hub Reborn: A Mandela Day Gift of Hope and Sport In the true spirit of Mandela Day, the Ikageng community was gifted a revitalized space of opportunity and inspiration. North West Cricket, in proud partnership with MEG Security, officially handed over a fully refurbished Ikageng Cricket Hub to the children and families of the area, a gesture deeply rooted in the values of service, unity, and empowerment that Nelson Mandela championed. The facility now stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring young cricketers. Having undergone thorough cleaning, much-needed repairs, and a vibrant new coat of paint, the Hub is now ready to welcome the next generation of cricket stars. This heartwarming initiative would not have been possible without the incredible generosity and collaboration of dedicated partners. MEG Security played a central role in the transformation, and their commitment was echoed by the invaluable support of: Eastvaal Renault Potchefstroom Sunbake Chicken Licken JB Marks Local Municipality Special recognition goes to Hester Cronje Parsons and the Dragons Junior Cricket Academy, whose tireless dedication to grassroots cricket development continues to inspire.  The handover event was filled with joy, gratitude, and pride, as community members, children, and cricket lovers gathered to witness this milestone. It was a celebration of collective effort and a reaffirmation of what can be achieved when people come together for a greater cause. To everyone who contributed, attended, and shared in the spirit of the day , thank you. Your presence made this day truly unforgettable. As Nelson Mandela once said: "Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does."  The Ikageng Cricket Hub now stands as living proof of that belief. Advertisement - Flo-Tek Trompie Artificial Grass Trompie Artificial Grass is available at Flo-Tek NW, a trusted supplier of garden and infrastructure products in Potchefstroom and surrounds. Whether you’re upgrading your home garden or fitting out a larger space, their team is ready to help you find the right solution. Urgent intervention sought as Witrand Psychiatric Hospital struggles with mounting infrastructure failures Witrand Psychiatric Hospital in Potchefstroom is in a state of crisis due to severe infrastructure and operational failures, according to a 7 July oversight report by the Democratic Alliance (DA).  Key issues include: Severe laundry backlog: Only two industrial washing machines and three dryers remain operational. Dirty linen is transported up to 150 km away, creating hygiene risks and supply shortages in wards. Boiler failure: Industrial boilers have been out of service for three years, leaving wards without heating and the kitchen without steam, forcing reliance on gas burners and geysers. Security concerns: No CCTV surveillance in food-prep and delivery areas increases the risk of theft, potentially depriving vulnerable patients of meals. Budget limitations: The hospital’s own budget cannot cover the costs for essential equipment replacements. The DA has called on the North West Health Department to urgently intervene and fund these critical upgrades. The facility serves over 450 mental-health and intellectually disabled patients. The DA warns that continued delays violate the Patient Rights Charter and Disability Rights Charter. Additionally, the hospital is under investigation following a patient’s death and allegations of neglect. Unions are urging a broader inquiry, citing systemic issues like chronic understaffing and decaying infrastructure. For now, Witrand patients endure unwashed bedding and freezing conditions as the province faces increasing pressure to act swiftly. Community Support StroomCares: Celebrating Mandela Day 2025 in JB Marks: Acts of Service and Stories of Hope “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others.” – Nelson Mandela As the world paused to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela on 18 July 2025, the JB Marks Local Municipality came together in a powerful show of community-driven compassion, development, and unity. From painting classrooms to feeding the vulnerable and bringing joy to young children, this year’s theme echoed in every ward: "67 Minutes of Impact, A Lifetime of Change." The Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, led by MMC Cllr. P. Mtshali, hosted a vibrant celebration at Tshing Community Library with the little ones from New Life Day Care Centre in Ventersdorp. Children were treated to interactive storytelling, dramatic puppet shows, sing-along action songs,  and playful book reading sessions. This initiative was more than just fun, it was a step toward nurturing a love for learning in a community that understands the value of early childhood development. Guided by MMC Cllr. Mantwa Matilda Kasale, the Department of Community Services honoured Mandela’s spirit with humility, spending 67 minutes serving hot soup and bread to waste pickers at the Potchefstroom Landfill Site. At Fikadibeng Primary School in Klipdrift, Executive Mayor Cllr. Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele and North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Sempe Elizabeth Mokua, joined hands in a powerful show of leadership by preparing a vegetable garden, painting classrooms, hallways, and ablution facilities, and beautifying the school environment. Mandela Day in JB Marks wasn't just a calendar event, it was a living embodiment of Madiba’s legacy. Leaders, departments, councillors, and residents all took hands to build, feed, serve, clean, paint, and uplift. Whether through song or soup, storytelling or shovels, each act was a stitch in the fabric of a stronger, kinder community. Welcome to PAWS Haven: A fresh start for animal welfare under new management We are proud to share that PAWS has officially been renamed PAWS Haven - a name that reflects a new beginning. Under new management/committee (without compensation), we are committed to moving forward with transparency, accountability and the animals at heart. PAWS Haven’s mission is to bring renewed energy, integrity and vision.  We are committed to building a place of safety, trust and true compassion for every local animal that needs our care and to support our community. Our local vet, well known Dr Gerber, who has many years experience in his field, has been appointed to be at the services of our community. Thank you for believing in second chances for us and for them. Advertisement  - ORKA Solar As South Africa continues to explore cleaner, more reliable energy options, one Potchefstroom-based company is making a real impact. Founded in 2009, Orka Solar has become a trusted name in the solar industry, offering practical and affordable energy alternatives for homes, businesses, and farms. You can read all about this local company here: ORKA Solar Profile Sport & Kultuur Potchefstroom Gimnasium Timari Jonker is gekies vir die Suid-Afrikaanse o/17-hokkiespan – ’n merkwaardige prestasie vir hierdie graad 11-leerder. Sewe Gimmie-rugbymanne het die Luiperds verteenwoordig by provinsiale wedstryde, terwyl mnr. JR Jackson deel was van die Grant Khomo-span. Vier dansers van die Gimmie Dansakademie is gekies om SA te verteenwoordig by die Mediterranean Legends-kompetisie in Spanje. Hoër Volkskool Potchefstroom ’n Nuwe vennootskap met Wilson Sport bring vars energie. Die eerstespan dogters het elkeen ’n splinternuwe paar Wilson-tekkies ontvang vir die Irene Seymore Netbaltoernooi. Tydens die Karkloof Youth Festival het Migael Jansen 9de in Sub-junior mans geëindig en 23ste algeheel uit 75 ryers, terwyl Lian Louw 3de in Jeug mans en 2de algeheel behaal het. Saint Christian School Die o/13-span het vier van hul ses wedstryde gewen tydens die Volkies Potch Toernooi. Mofenyi Olaniran het met ’n ongelooflike 118 lopies in een wedstryd en ’n onoorwonne 94 in die laaste wedstryd die skare beïndruk.  ’n Dag vol kos, speletjies en kreatiwiteit het entrepreneurskap onder die leerlinge versterk en gemeenskapsgees bevorder. Hoërskool Wesvalia 0/15B Krieketspan het met selfvertroue die Montana Kriekettoernooi aangepak en reeds goeie resultate getoon. Vier dogter-atlete het nasionale ranglyste betree: Carli Visser, Lolani Jansen van Vuuren, Luché van der Berg en Denike Jordaan. Klerksdorp Hoërskool Jarred van Staden het ’n merkwaardige drie gedruk en ’n plek in die Gazelle-span verwerf – ’n bewys van sy harde werk en vasberadenheid. Ava Tannous en Kate-Lynn Fourie (o/16) het hul merk gemaak deur onder die top 10 op die nasionale 100m-hekkiesranglys te eindig. Ava beklee die 5de plek en Kate-Lynn die 7de. Internasionale Glorie: Klerksdorp School of Gymnastics By die 40ste GGC Internasionale Gimnastiekkompetisie in Malta het Klerksdorp se gimnaste met goud teruggekeer: Sanya Visser, Naomi De Klerk, Carmin Schulenburg en Ria Schulenburg is vier van die gimnaste wat uitstekend gevaar het en Klerksdorp se naam hoog gehou het. Hierdie uitmuntende prestasies is die resultaat van afrigters Yana en Artyom se toewyding en kundigheid. Skool Stories Gimmies se Andrea Steynberg verteenwoordig S-A in Nigeri ë Gimmies is ongelooflik trots op hul steratleet, Andrea Steynberg, wat tans Suid-Afrika verteenwoordig in Nigerië. Andrea het in die 1500 m aan die begin van die toernooi ’n merkwaardige prestasie gelewer met ’n persoonlike beste tyd van 4:21.1. Hierdie prestasie is nie net ’n bewys van haar talent en harde werk nie, maar ook van die afrigting, dissipline en ondersteuning wat sy ontvang van haar skoolgemeenskap. Andrea se prestasie dien as ’n inspirasie vir haar medeleerders en ander jong atlete om groot drome te hê en hul eie grense te verskuif. Gimmies glo dat sukses soos dié nie toevallig gebeur nie, maar die resultaat is van deursettingsvermoë en onwrikbare toewyding. Kar Stories A Closer Look at the 2025 Ford Ranger 2.0 Single Turbo XLT – Smart Value in a Rugged Package The 2025 Ford Ranger 2.0 Single Turbo XLT 6-Speed Auto Double Cab is currently on promotion at Daly Ford Potchefstroom, offering a strong blend of utility and comfort at R622,000. This XLT model includes Upgrade Pack 6, which features leather seats, black sport trim, advanced safety tech (like Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Keep Assist), 17” all-terrain wheels, and underbody protection. It delivers 125 kW and 405 Nm torque via a 6-speed automatic and includes a 6-year/90,000 km service plan. More affordable variants include: XLT without Upgrade Pack at R579,900 Ranger XL 2.0D Auto at R558,000 All models support a 3,500 kg towing capacity and 800mm wading depth. Standard features across the XLT range include the SYNC® 4A infotainment system, wireless smartphone integration, dual-zone climate control, and FordPass Connect. Demo models available at special pricing include: Ranger XLT Bi-Turbo 4x4 Auto (154 kW, 10-speed) Ranger Tremor (off-road enhancements) Ranger XL Auto (budget-friendly utility) The Ranger XLT offers excellent value in the lifestyle bakkie segment, balancing price, features, and capability — without the premium tag of a Wildtrak or Raptor. Call Daly Ford: 018-299-8000  WhatsApp: 079-806-6759 Email: emil.pitout@teamdaly.co.za Events Calendar The Go-To Guy has an extensive events calendar that you can find a variety of events in and around Potchefstroom, in fact it is now one of the most comprehensive calendars in our region, you can visit the calendar at the following link: Events Calendar Young Entrepreneurs Market Day Set to Spark Business Spirit in Potchefstroom Date: Saturday, 2 August 2025 Time: 10:00 - 13:00 Venue: Fresh Pick Address: 48 Wilgen Street On 2 August 2025, Fresh Pick will host its first-ever Young Entrepreneurs Market Day. The event is tailored for aspiring business minds aged 9 to 18. Expect anything from homemade treats to hand-crafted wonders, as participants set up stalls with their own creations and innovations. Whether it’s knitted wristbands, baked goods, or homemade slime, the young sellers will get a real taste of the hustle. Visitors can also indulge in waffles, hot cocoa, and the charming chaos that only kids running businesses can provide. Cathy Viljoen kuier by Oase van Hoop AGS in Baillie Park Datum: Sondag 17 Augustus 2025 Tyd: 09:30 VM Plek: AGS Oase van Hoop, Baillie Park, Adres: 20 Wynne Straat Toegang: Gratis Dis amper tyd om die kerkbanke te vul en die hartsnare reg te trek, want Cathy Viljoen, een van Suid-Afrika se bekendste gospelstemme, tree op by AGS Oase van Hoop in Baillie Park. Cathy Viljoen is al vir byna vyftig jaar deel van die Suid-Afrikaanse gospel toneel. Sy is nie net ’n sanger nie, sy noem dit self haar “sang bediening.” Dis nie vir die applous nie, sê sy, maar om mense te bereik en te bemoedig. Haar stem en lirieke het al baie mense se trane gevat en in hoop verander. To view the entire edition, simply download it below. Until next month!