iv 61st Edition
Nov/Dec 2013
2 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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AUTO UMHLANGA YOUR DEALER OF CHOICE
Dealer Principal, Brenton Cole and New Car Sales Manager, Jacqui Lochner invite you to experience our personal customer interaction. At Auto Umhlanga our aim is to build lasting, trusting and personal relationships with our customer. The aim of our effort is not the short term but the long term sustainability of our customers satisfaction.
ESTATE PRESS PUBLISHER Lorinda Scott lorinda@estatepress.co.za editor Yvette Farinha admin@meccematwo.co.za graphics, layout & design Daniel Rambaly daniel@estatepress.co.za advertising sales Kubashni Nagapah 078 534 5624 kubashni@fabmags.co.za office contact details Suite 2A, Silverstone Way, Douglas Crowe Street Ballito, 4418 Tel: +27 32 946 3187 Fax: +27 86 605 0098 www.estatepress.co.za
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents Estate Press cannot be held responsible for any omission or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise there from.
Greetings and salutations residents and welcome to the Festive edition of Living the Good Life! It’s time for turkeys, tinsel and tree decorating. This is my most favourite time of the year; making lists, planning holidays, baking goodies and enjoying that good old Christmas cheer. It’s also that time of the year where diets leave through the back door and return next year sometime or the other. If you do happen to overindulge this season, don’t despair; instead, pull on your shorts, grab those takkies and go for a brisk walk on this magnificent estate of yours. You’ll be so glad you did! Who out there doesn’t like Jamie Oliver’s recipes!!! I didn’t think so. Check out his delicious duck recipe in our Taste Buds section, ideal for that glorious Christmas lunch! We featured a wonderful article on Security in 2011 and I thought I’d do it again for this edition, highlighting the amusing anecdotes the ladies and gentlemen of this department go through from time to time. I’ve also devoted a page to the staff so you can see who we are. Cats, dogs, monkeys, fingerprints and… “The Warehouse” dominated 2013 and although we have been relentless in trying to resolve these matters we know we have a way to go still. I’d like to raise my glass to all those residents who have voiced their opinions and shown their support; if not for you, things would most definitely not be the same. I hope we might work together to ensure that all these problems become easier in 2014. As the end of the year draws nigh, we reminisce on the regrets and the highs, we plan the season ahead shopping for pressies, dining with loved ones and making New Year’s resolutions that generally expire on New Year’s Day. This is the silly season and it means different things to different people; sadly for some it is bittersweet. To those who have lost loved ones through the year, may peace and comfort ease your sorrow and dry your tears. To every reader out there, whether you’re driving, flying or taking a cruise, stay safe. I wish you all a blessed festive season. See you in 2014! Best Regards
Yvette Farinha Estate Press is a privately owned and funded company and is not subsidized by MECCEMA residents or Board of Trustees. printing DNA Print (Pty) Ltd
Staying In Touch
If you have anything you’d like to share with us, whether it’s your opinions, your suggestions or your ideas, please feel free to e-mail me at admin@meccematwo.co.za I’d really like to hear from you.
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Content
14
Nature Chatter
18
Sightings
20
Medically Speaking
30
Your House, Your Home
7
From the Estate Manager
34
For Our Kids Sake
8
Message from the Chairman
36
Ahead Of Time
9
Estate News
38
Health
42
Taste Buds
10 On The Cover 12 Meet The Team
6 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Meccema Contacts Editor Yvette Farinha Estate Office Tel: 031 502 5360 Fax: 031 502 5363 Website www.meccematwo.co.za Email admin@meccematwo.co.za Meccema Board of Directors Chairman David Buxton Vice Chairman Khisore Ramkissoon Director of Finance Peter du Trevou Directors Dave Birkett Michelle Morey EMERGENCY NUMBERS Although we recommend that your first point of contact in an emergency should be via Security, we have listed numbers you may require should you find yourself in a crisis situation ~ we want you all to be secure in the knowledge that we are making it that much easier for you:
Message from the
Estate Manager By Terry Keller
The moment you’re ready to quit, is usually the moment right before a miracle happens. Don’t give up! As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves taking stock of what has transpired and look forward to what is planned and expected in The New Year. It has been a particularly busy year for Meccema Two which has had its fair share of challenges. Some have been overcome, some remain a work in progress and others forced us to review our approach. The New Year is around the corner and without a doubt, will also dish up a challenge or two. The Management team has also set themselves a few goals for the New Year which we believe will improve the interaction with residents. We are looking at new ways of communication with our residents in this fast moving app/mobi world we live in.
We continue to explore new ways to improve our service and contain costs in these uncertain financial times. Our team remains committed to assisting residents with estate matters in an effort to ensure that your experience is a positive one. Over this festive season, we trust that you will rest and recoup. Enjoy the time with family and loved ones and above all, be safe. On behalf of the team, I wish you a happy festive season and a prosperous New Year. May 2014 be your best yet!
Security/Control Room 031 539 3144 Phoenix Police 031 508 2300 Umhlanga Police 031 566 1219 Flying Squad 10111 Ambulance/Fire ER24 (084124) Rescue Team Rescuetech (086 167 2226) Fire Department 031 361 0000 031 566 9000 Trauma & Poison Unit 0800 333 444 Electricity 0801 313 111 0801 313 140 Water 0801 313 013 SPCA Durban and Coast 031 579 6510 After Hours emergency 082 212 6103 SPCA Kloof and Highway 031 764 1212 After Hours emergency 073 335 9322
Message from the
Chairman
T
By David Buxton
his year has flown by and as 2013 draws to a close, we can reflect on an interesting year. The economy continues to improve and it has been a wonderful year for house sales on Estate Two.
There have been several major challenges in 2013 for our Estate. We said good-bye to Basil Schreiber our Estate manager and we welcomed Terry Keller as our new Estate Manager. Terry quickly had to find his feet as there were a few pressing matters to attend to, well done Terry. The moving of the fence line on the Road Agency Land and ANOTHER fence move came out of the blue, which was not budgeted for, but had to be done. The introduction of the Fingerprint recognition system which was not without its teething problems seems to have settled down and certainly is an asset to our Estate Security. Congratulations to The Sharks on a well-deserved CURRIE CUP win! We look forward to our boys retaining the trophy next year!
Overall 2013 was a wonderful year for our estate. The management team and staff are to be congratulated on all aspects of running such a large estate and I would like to compliment every one of them, as our estate is something we can all be very proud of. As we move towards the festive season, we wish our Matrics who are writing their finals this year the very BEST OF LUCK, I am sure you will all do your very best and pass with distinctions. I would like to thank my fellow directors for all of their hard work and their endless commitment and tireless dedication to Estate Two it has not been an easy year but the board remains committed to serving the Estate so that we can continue to enjoy “The Good Life” In closing, I wish all of our residents and their families a joyous and safe festive season and a Happy and Prosperous 2014.
8 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
ESTATE
NEWS W
e congratulate all these members of staff for the outstanding work they do. The Stars have been awarded certificates and also receive a Pick ‘n Pay voucher. If you have any stars out there that you wish to nominate, please contact me and we’ll make them shine! Last but not least… Most of you have met Hayley, our receptionist here at Meccema Two so you will know she finally tied the knot to her long time beau, Brendon Vannan…here’s their story.
Hitched at last!!
On the 28 September, I got married to my best friend & soul mate of 15 years. We had a lovely wedding which we celebrated at the Breakers Hotel in Umhlanga with close friends & family. I am so happy & couldn’t have asked for a better day (definitely worth the wait!) We’ll be going to Bali and Australia on honeymoon in December. I’m so spoilt!!! I have never felt so loved & look forward to my future as Mrs Vannan.
Esate News
STAR OF THE MONTH: October
Star of the Month, Bheki Sydney Xulu with Terry Keller and James Donnison
The nominees: Walter Gumede, Bheki Sydney Xulu and Sifiso Mbambo
STAR OF THE MONTH: September Moses Mabasa is the Star and is pictured with Terry Keller and James Donnison
Zibonele Ngcobo, Terry Keller, Moses Mabasa, James Donnison and Mtobisi Ndlovu
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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ON THe
Cover
W
e love how many of you out there decorate your homes with Christmas scenes and lights ~ you transform this Estate into a wonderland. On the cover is a photo taken by Hayley, our receptionist of the Christmas lights on Columbia Crescent. Here are a few more we’d like to share with you…
T
hey call this the Silly Season ~ I suppose that stems from far too much eating, drinking and merriment! It’s important to remember that this is also the season for giving…for loving….for peace. That being said, I’d very much love to give thanks to the following very important people in my life:
TIME TO
GIVE THANKS
To my handsome hubby and beautiful family for being so supportive, loving and encouraging; my wonderful friends whom I enjoy spending quality times with, even though they call me tolly (I have very low levels of tolerance) and to my amazing work colleagues, each so unique and remarkable in their own way; you make it a pleasure to work here. To those residents who’ve communicated with me throughout the course of the year; your input has been so wonderful and I am
10 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
grateful to you for your uplifting comments. You are why I love my job! Something I've not done which I need to do now: To all our advertisers who place their material in our magazine, I’d like to thank each and every one of you. If it wasn’t for you and your contribution, this magazine would not exist. Thank you for your wonderful ongoing support of our Estate Two magazine – it is greatly appreciated. To our Publisher, Estate Press for this superb well designed magazine; to all our service providers who have been at our beck and call throughout the year and last but not least to Webhouse for revamping our website; it looks great. Thank you one and all! Now it’s your turn...
Cosmopolitan Restaurant located at the luxurious Three Cities Square Boutique Hotel & Spa and the elegant Three Cities Urban Park Hotel & Spa was relaunched at grand events in October. The delicious new menus include quick bites for those on the go, starters, salads, and a mouth-watering selection of grills and seafood, curries, and pastas. The dessert options add a touch of sweetness to the already delicious spread.
Christmas Lunch Buet for the whole family Cost:
R280 per person, children under 12 pay half price. .......................................
Venue:
Cosmopolitan Restaurant
Time : 12:30 - 15:30 Standard T's and C's apply: Only pre-payments will be accepted to secure bookings, Christmas Lunch Buet only valid on 25 December.
Three Cities Urban Park Hotel & Spa Three Cities The Square Boutique Hotel & Spa 60 Meridian Drive, Umhlanga Ridge New Town 250 Umhlanga Rocks drive, Umhlanga Center (opposite Porsche) Tel: +27 (0) 31 566 1814 Tel: +27 (0) 87 350 4662 www.thesquare.co.za | reserve@thesquare.co.za Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two www.urbanpark.co.za | reserve1@urbanpark.co.za
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Meet The Terry Keller Estate Manager
James Donnison Security Manager
Kamini Naidu Finance Manager
Charles Sturgess P&A Manager
Anthony Job L&E Manager
Lilaine Pillay P&A Co-ordinator
Roslyn Munsami Accounts Assistant
Roland Friskin Assistant Security Manager
Annusha Sewpershad Property Administrator
Hayley Vannan Receptionist
Yvette Farinha Personal Assistant/Editor
Jonathan Dreyer Compliance and HR Manager
Mahomed Mansoor Access Control Administrator
Princess Mnqayi Domestic Office Assistant
Amith Singh Speed Enforcement Officer
Michael Mdluli Office Assistant/Bus Driver
Charles Kingma Rules Warden
12 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
DISCRETE HOME THEATRE INSTALLATIONS
HEADPHONES
OUR SHOWROOM
AUTOMATION SYSTEMS
Garlicke & Bousfield is the natural choice when seeking legal assistance. We take our responsibilities to our clients seriously, protecting and promoting your interests confidentially, promptly and without compromise.
G A R L I C K E
DOCKING STATIONS
High quality stereo Hi-Fi systems Custom home theatre systems Multi room distributed audio and video Plasma screens and large screen projection Home automation systems Lighting control On site consultation Design, installation and calibration
B O U S F I E L D
AT T O R N E Y S , N O TA R I E S A N D C O N V E YA N C E R S
7 Torsvale Crescent La Lucia Ridge Office Estate PO Box 1219 Umhlanga Rocks 4320 • Docex 5 Umhlanga Tel: +27 31 570 5300 • Fax: +27 31 570 5301 Email: mailur@gb.co.za www.gb.co.za
AUDIO EXCELLENCE CALL 031
566 5931
www.audioexcellence.co.za GATEWAY OFFICE PARK UMHLANGA ROCKS Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Nature Chatter
The Healing
F
lowers give so much pleasure; not only for their striking colours, but sometimes also for their sweet scents. Vases of fresh cut flowers seem to add that little bit extra to your home. I investigated the healing powers of our different flowers and I’d like to thank Karen Simpson from Life Assist for allowing me the use of their website for the information. I’m sure you’ll find this as rewarding as I did. Love flowers? You will love them even more when you find out that apart from their visual appeal they can also be eaten and used to heal and restore wellbeing. Flower remedies Modern day homeopaths still use diluted essences of flowers in their medicines, while aroma therapists use flower essences dissolved in oil and applied externally. Flower waters and oils are also used in cosmetics and other remedies. Flower-based herbal teas and juices are consumed daily
and the more than 100 types of edible garden flowers have found their way into many local and international dishes and cuisines. Word of warning These are but a few of the many edible flowers that delight and heal the body, mind and spirit. However, there are a few precautions one has to take before using flowers for medicinal purposes or in food. Most important is to make sure the flower is safe to use. Also, make sure the flowers you use have not been sprayed with chemicals or pesticides. Remember to remove the flower’s stamen, pistil and sepal as they may be bitter. When in doubt consult your herbalist, chemist or GP, especially if you are pregnant or have a pre-existing medical condition such as hay fever, asthma or heart problems.
Some flowers with curative properties: Calendula (Marigold) has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and antiviral compounds called glycosides that are used in ointments and creams to treat minor burns, cuts and wounds. It is said to increase positive energy in a workplace or home. It has a spicy, tangy and peppery taste when added to food. Rose. Both the petals and hips are safe to eat and are high in vitamin C and also contain vitamin B. The petals when eaten raw are said to increase blood circulation and relieve depression. Roses can also be used in jams, or to flavour honey, sorbet or other dessert.
Chamomile. The bright yellow flower heads contain glycoside flavonoids and other parts of the plant have antiinflammatory properties and antioxidants. It also contains a natural histamine blocker and is referred to as a soother of many ills. The tea with its faint apple flavour calms anxiety and headaches, aids sleep and digestive disorders. The oil is used in skincare ointments.
Evening Primrose. Fatty acids in the seed oil are said to balance female hormones and reduce prostate swelling. The oil is good for the skin and aids circulation while also combatting depression.
Chrysanthemum has been used in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It makes a great tea when steeped in hot water and is said to relieve fevers, headaches and the common cold. The petals add zest to salads, stir-fries and rice dishes.
Dandelion. Yes, the hated weeds — can be a diuretic and they contain vitamins A, B, C, D, iron, zinc and potassium. Used to help control blood sugar levels, cholesterol, liver and gallbladder problems. Young buds taste like mushrooms when fried in butter. Some apply it topically to treat eczema, while others take it internally for arthritis and even intestinal disorders.
Nasturtium has antimicrobial properties useful in treating colds, flu, and lung and bladder infections. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and add a spicy, peppery tang to salads, stir-fries, pastas and vegetable dishes. Echinacea (Purple cone flower) has antiinflammatory effects which are put to good use to combat viral infections such as colds and flu, and to treat wounds and skin irritations.
14 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Lavender has been used for centuries to aid sleep and as an antiseptic. It has antiinflammatory properties when applied to the skin and is widely used in aromatherapy and to treat acne, burns, insect bites and wounds. The flowers may be stripped from the stalks and used in fish and poultry dishes, as well as with vegetables, fruit and desserts. In the January/February edition, I’ll cover the medicinal uses of plants.
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Medically Speaking
Mt Edgecombe
www.wakefields.co.za
s n o s Seaetings Gre DUAL MANDATE
As this is the last edition of the Mt Edgecombe Estate ll magazine for 2013
Wakefields Mount Edgecombe sales team wish you a blessed safe and happy festive season spent with family and friends and every best wish for a happy, healthy successful 2014
MT EDGECOMBE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE II
View By Appointment
R10 500 000
WEB REF WAK011761 GRAND & GRACIOUS A majestic 4 bedroom (all en suite) home offering the very best of everything! A grand double volume entrance hall, a study, superb flowing reception areas, huge gourmet kitchen, large entertainment verandah with seamless glass doors, rim flow pool complete with a billiard room, pub and wine cellar for the man of the house!
SOLE MANDATE
MT EDGECOMBE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE II
View By Appointment
R6 750 000
WEB REF WAK015872 SUPERB MODERN HOME - GREAT VIEWS Modern home with so much to offer set in central area of the golf estate. 3 Generous bedrooms in main house plus separate 4th bedroom in very large self-contained loft suite which includes lounge and balcony. All doors open from living area, pub and study/gym giving good flow to entertainment patio and decked pool. Lovely views over fairways and beyond from the elevated level garden.
Elizabeth Monk 083 280 3903
Bev Logan 082 565 5684
the #WakefieldsWay
Ricky Cole 082 447 2780
MT EDGECOMBE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE II
OUTSTANDING HOME IN THE BEST POSITION
View By Appointment
R12 000 000
WEB REF WAK007948
Set back for privacy, this magnificent home with fairway frontage has golf course, Pani Dam and forest views. Beautifully-appointed, this home has master-crafted woodwork throughout, and has many extra features which will appeal to the most discerning purchaser. The four large bedrooms are all en-suite. The stunning living area and bar flow onto a large verandah with outstanding views, gourmet kitchen, fully-fitted executive study, private pool and braai area, two double garages and ample parking.
SOLE MANDATE
MT EDGECOMBE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE II
View By Appointment
R7 850 000
WEB REF WAK015429 UNIQUELY PRIVATE AND TOTALLY LEVEL This family friendly home has 4 large beds all together and a separate 2 bed loft suite above the garage. Lounge, TV Lounge and sep dining room, plus well fitted study and cosy pub nook for easy entertaining. Huge covered veranda with built in facilities leads to level garden and large pool. Enjoy this home with the advantage of the relaxed and secure Golf Estate lifestyle.
MT EDGECOMBE COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE II
View By Appointment
R5 495 000
WEB REF WAK015871 SUPERB POSITION Spacious freestanding duplex with fairway frontage, offering 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and open-plan living areas which open onto the covered verandah with views onto the garden, pool and golf course.
Glenda Hamilton Michelle Greeff 083 301 4679 082 653 1149
Come and see us for all your Property Sales and Rental requirements at Ground floor Accord House, 2 Golf Course Drive, Mount Edgecombe. Tel: (031) 539 7886
WAKEFIELDS MT EDGECOMBE T 031 539 7886 E MTEDGECOMBE @WAKEFIELDS.CO.ZA
16 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
UNIQUE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY
Goedemoed WINE RESORT AND SPA
Invest in a sectional title hotel room built on a working wine farm, located in the beautiful town of Paarl in the Western Cape winelands. The existing hotel is being expanded upon to become a 43 bedroom resort and spa
Priced from R575 000 Location
Paarl, Cape Winelands
Opened
2005
Distance
2 kms from Paarl City Centre
Hotel type
Boutique Hotel
Hotel size
43 bedrooms
Rooms for sale
Individual rooms and Suites
Bedrooms / Villa size 35m2 to 180m2 Forecasted ROI
Year 1............ 9,70% Year 2............ 12% Year 3............ 15%
Owner usage
30 days per annum
Exchange ability
Yes
USP
Immediate Registration and Returns
Hotel Operator
African Insignia Hotels
For more information on the following development please contact
Alan - Tel +27 (0) 31 576 9600 Cell: 082 453 2796 Email: alan@elan.co.za
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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So many residents submit their photos to me and I’d like to share them with you…thanks go out to Sue Abernethy in Montgomery Drive, Wendy Naglesen in Beulah Hill, The Champkins’ in Copperstone Green, Brenda Bradbury in The Lakes and Lee Currie in Echo Lake ~ your contribution is greatly appreciated and I'm sure the residents are going to enjoy these.
ber o on 22nd Septem ate ~ Fishing comp Fun Times on the Est a Bradbury Fishing comp – Brend
Bushbuck – The Champkins
elsen Variegated bush snake – Wendy Nag
Thought you might like to see what I found in my palm tree!! I've had all sorts in my garden, but this is a first for me.
Francolins
Bats in tree – Sue Abernethy
Crab in pool
ce cloth g on fa ro F e e r T
18 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
– Wendy N agelsen
ber ne – Sue A Sunrise
by Lee Currie I found this little tree frog clinging to my face cloth which was hanging over the side of my bath. Luckily I spotted it first otherwise I don't know which of us would have got a bigger fright. I have been known to levitate clean out of the bath before, when once a frog jumped in with me. This morning I fished a crab out of my swimming pool! Thank heavens I keep a child's fishing net handy to relocate these creatures…”
thy
Visit us at Flanders Mall, Mount Edgecombe for any of the following: • Dermologica, Guinot and Environ facials • Full array of massages • Waxing and threading • Pedicures • Manicures • Gelish, Acrylic and Gel Nails • Plus Dermologica, Environ, Essie, OPI, Sprayology retail products...
Open 7 days a week for your convenience
Now also doing lash extensions!!
ONLY AT FLANDERS MALL
Get to meet our highly trained Therapists and have a FREE FACE MAPPING by calling us on: (031) 539 1114
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Medically Speaking
CANCER AWARENESS
Breast Cancer
B
reast Cancer is one of the top 10 leading female cancers in South Africa. A woman can develop breast cancer any time during her adult life - even as early as in her late twenties. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. The good news is that if it’s detected early, there is an excellent chance of recovery. Many breast lumps are harmless, but they should all be checked. It is important to examine your breasts regularly and if you are over 40, to go for a mammogram.
healthy breast tissue and make their way into the underarm lymph nodes, small organs that filter out foreign substances in the body. If cancer cells get into the lymph nodes, they then have a pathway into other parts of the body. Breast cancer is always caused by a genetic abnormality (a “mistake” in the genetic material). However, only 5-10% of cancers are due to an abnormality inherited from your mother or father. About 90% of breast cancers are due to genetic abnormalities that happen as a result of the aging process and the “wear and tear” of life in general.
Usually breast cancer either begins in the cells of the lobules, which are the milkproducing glands, or the ducts, the passages that drain milk from the lobules to the nipple. Less commonly, breast cancer can begin in the stromal tissues, which include the fatty and fibrous connective tissues of the breast.
There are steps every person can take to help the body stay as healthy as possible and lower risk of breast cancer or a breast cancer recurrence, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and exercising regularly.
Breast Anatomy Over time, cancer cells can invade nearby
Symptoms Initially, breast cancer may not cause any
20 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
symptoms. A lump may be too small for you to feel or to cause any unusual changes you can notice on your own. Often, an abnormal area turns up on a screening mammogram, which leads to further testing. In some cases, however, the first sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the breast that you or your doctor can feel. A lump that is painless, hard, and has uneven edges is more likely to be cancer. But sometimes cancers can be tender, soft, and rounded. So it's important to have anything unusual checked by your doctor. The following unusual changes in the breast can be a symptom of breast cancer: • swelling of all or part of the breast • skin irritation or dimpling • breast pain • nipple pain or the nipple turning inward • redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin • a nipple discharge other than breast milk • a lump in the underarm area
SiT-down and take-away menu available
Most breast-cancer-related tests fall into one or more of the following categories: • Screening tests: Screening tests, such as yearly mammograms are given routinely to people who appear to be healthy and are not suspected of having breast cancer. Their purpose is to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms can develop and the cancer usually is easier to treat. • Diagnostic tests: Diagnostic tests, such as biopsy are given to people who are suspected of having breast cancer, either because of symptoms they may be experiencing or a screening test result. These tests are used to determine whether or not breast cancer is present and if so, whether or not it has travelled outside the breast. Diagnostic tests also are used to gather more information about the cancer to guide decisions about treatment. • Monitoring tests: Once breast cancer is diagnosed, many tests are used during and after treatment to monitor how well therapies are working. Monitoring tests also may be used to check for any signs of recurrence. How is breast cancer treated? There are three main arms of treatment: surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy (which can include hormonal therapy). Surgery and radiotherapy are local treatments, while chemotherapy is systemic, being administered via the bloodstream or digestive tract. In most cases a combination of treatments will be applied. Mastectomy It has been proven in large overseas studies that a mastectomy offers no survival benefit when compared with treatment that
- Flowers and gifts - Magazines and newspapers - Cold beverages, confectionary, chips and chocolates - Hot and cold take-away deli items
removes only the lump. Small lumps can be removed with excellent cosmetic results. This approach results in far less mutilation and emotional distress for the individual. With advances in chemotherapy, hormonal and gene therapy, it is rarely necessary to perform a mastectomy. A mastectomy should not be offered as first treatment. Its application is restricted to very specific cases. Tips for performing BSE Few women really want to do a breast self-exam, or BSE, however, the more you examine your breasts, the more you will learn about them and the easier it will become for you to tell if something unusual has occurred. Make a habit of doing breast selfexaminations once a month to familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel. Examine yourself several days after your period ends, when your breasts are least likely to be swollen and tender. If you are no longer having periods, choose a day that's easy to remember, such as the first or last day of the month. Don’t panic if you think you feel a lump. Most women have some lumps or lumpy areas in their breasts all the time. Breasts tend to have different “neighbourhoods.” The upper, outer area — near your armpit — tends to have the most prominent lumps and bumps. The lower half of your breast can feel like a sandy or pebbly beach. The area under the nipple can feel like a collection of large grains. Another part might feel like a lumpy bowl of oatmeal. It is not unusual for lumps to appear at certain times of the month, but then disappear, as your body changes with the menstrual cycle (if you are still menstruating). Only changes that last beyond one full cycle, or seem to get bigger or more prominent in some way, need your doctor's attention.
Sauce Advertising 18395
These changes also can be signs of less serious conditions that are not cancerous, such as an infection or a cyst. It’s important to get any breast changes checked out promptly by a doctor.
NetCafé Umhlanga Ground floor Netcare Hospital Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
| 21
CARD
SKIMMING
ATM skimmers: How can you spot a skimming device
I
t has recently come to light that criminals are becoming more cunning in their plans to trick unsuspecting ATM users out of their funds. A new device has been discovered, images and discriptions below, which have been found in Shopping Centres, petrol stations and convenience stores all over JHB. Please be aware of these and do not consider this to be something that you will not be a victim of, chances are, they may already have your details without you even knowing. These devices, as seen above, are used to scan magstrip details directly from your ATM card. Simultaneously, while your magstrip is being read, a camera located in the side of the “Skimmer” is viewing every key you push on the keypad. This means that not only do criminals have your card information but also your pin number, making it simple to transfer your details to any card with a magstrip (Edgars card, expired bank cards, Clicks card, etc) and draw funds from an ATM without your knowledge. Please make you friends and family aware of these devices, with an increase of awareness you may not become a victim. ATM skimmers: How can you spot a skimming device? Disguised to seamlessly look like part of an ATM, “skimmers” are devices installed by thieves to surreptitiously swipe your credit and debit-card information. How can you tell whether an ATM may have a skimmer installed? And what can you do at an ATM to protect your information? If you look at one of these skimmers, they look like part of the machine. Before swiping your debit, cheque or credit card, wiggle the protruding slot in which you slide your card, thieves often install skimmers on top of the ATM’s actual slot and secure the skimmer with adhesive. Check the device and wiggle it to see if it’s loose or if it falls off. Look for remnants or residue of double-sided tape. Anything that looks unusual, check it out. When you type in your PIN on the machine, cover it up so no one can see it, because some have cameras that is reading or viewing your PIN as you enter it. Finally, if you’re not sure, just don’t use the machine!
22 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
ATM card skimming device attached to ATM machine. However despite their detailed design, the devices rely on double-sided adhesive and can come loose. ATM users are advised to check any machine before they use it. If the keypad is raised above the surface of the desk at the ATM, it may be that thieves have installed a keypad over the existing one. Users are also advised to use only newer ATMs with a green plastic tab protruding from machine next to the slot. The tab makes it much more difficult for a skimmer to be installed. Be Safe. The Security Web Team
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Se
y t i c ur
s e i n n u
e y a re e. T h c ar r i e d m i t e to ro l s m t i m t i nu e d p at d i s t r e s s . o r f hem c on l l, t in t f or t p a r t f rom s i d e n an c e s … we u e o r t a u f rk c i nst e. A all o eir wo utiful estat d to the c r, in some h t e v n e at t e on h a ow e v is b e a d i v i s i f i n e s o f t h l s o h av e t o s o n n e l . H y t i r p er c on secu it y a n ou r w it h i n t h e n d s , S e c u r r S e c u r it y u r s e l f … i s t n u e u f or y o an d g u s afe s u r ro d by o A resident asked Security to inform a d i e s e e pi n g y o f e n c e a n d lp i s s o l v e n g a n d s e e l r u i k O e r d h h e a t t r i e e Management that we need to alert all r o w f p im a tasked ng our per ident’s ple duty. Kee residents that their dogs aren’t allowed o of es out a l t c a s e s , a r t h e i r c a l l to bark at the buck crossing in front of s d In m o y g o b e y o n their homes… it d e S ec ur r e t flus
F
r of a ome om he the h ed fr o v t o . d m p alle slee g re was c a fro le to b y d t a g, i e r o d e ee e fr ’t b Secu who n out th ouldn t w d n ty e e e i t r h d n poi resi secu ise s t, all ident therw s h o e g r i l m ey roo bad l, the l…th arriva bly due to n woo o t i t Upon s s o c o f ver, p wool… ball o howe as a otton w c e e h e t s ed could emov ntly r e g i l i d
o m a resident wh A call came in fro g bi re was a very reported that the en rd and it had be lizard in her ya henever it hears there all day. W by ~ o the bushes near noises, it runs int Nile a as ter identified the lizard was la Monitor.
urity stating that A resident contacted sec the Estate of he suspected someone on was badly car lighting fires and that his ered in cov s messed up because it wa the sugar t tha ash ~ Security explained le for the sib pon res plantation nearby was fire. A resident called secu rity asking them to ass ist with the removal of big tree bra a nc h from he r driveway which was blocking he r passage Security dul ~ y removed the branc h
Security was patrolling and came across a home which was being raided by monkeys. They shooed the monkeys away and closed all the windows. There was a lunchbox outside which the monkeys left behind so security took it with them. Security contacted the resident to explain the situation and the resident said that he’d drop by and collect his lunch box on his way home. Later, Security was asked to please drop the lunch box off at the resident’s home… Security was called out to a resident who was complaining about the birds in her yard being responsible for her dog barking..Security chased the birds away and the dog stopped barking…
A resident followed a truck and repor ted to Security that they need to search the truck because something which appeared to be a dead body was covered with a blanket. Security checked the truck and found a pile of blankets which were being used to cover kitchen cabinets so as to protect them.
A resident reported that there was a small crocodile in her yard ~ Security went through to the resident’s home and the domestic said that it had already run away…towards the stream…those pesky Nile Monitors eh…
24 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
A resident asked Security to sor t out all the booms at Gate 6 because the noise disrupts the resident’s sleep patter ns…
ta rity tha to secu d e ay in w e pla driv ent com ate in a m ti e A resid in th ing ed, was be y arriv couple Securit e n e h w le t y ft th , bu alread d nearby a h couple intimate s c e n e. security and A resident called ase go to her asked them to ple f her iron which home and switc h of to switc h off. she had forgotten to this request… Security attended
Although not secu rity related, we ha ve been asked by a residen t to change the nu mber of their house for sup erstitious reasons – their address is number 13…
y ent called securit Recently, a resid out ab s wa e us ho t his very worried tha of estate because to levitate off the , the ions. As you know very loud explos hence the ing expanded, interchange is be ned to . This was explai noises in the area like it uld nevertheless wo the resident who no he se d advise us in ca noted that he di d. ve use because it mo longer had a ho
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Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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Snakes on Estate Two 1
2
4
5
3
6
By Colin Aitkenhead
The personal snake experiences relate specifically to the Estate with all of the pictures having also been taken here...
A
s the warmer months approach, articles on snakes are likely to appear in various publications. In the past, such articles have featured not only in this magazine but also in the “Northglen News” the “Mercury” and “Daily News”. These are sometimes general in content featuring stock pictures of snakes and offering advice on how to identify them. Several different snake species are found on the Estate and over the years my wife and I have encountered numerous snakes in our garden. Snakes are not inclined to wait around to be photographed as they are usually “in transit” and I have taken relatively few pictures of snakes considering the many occasions on which we have discovered them on our property. The common brown house snake is found throughout the Estate. The one shown in pictures 1-3 ambushed a female bishop
under our bird feeder. The bird provided a much needed meal for the snake but if disturbed at the stage shown in picture 3 the snake would regurgitate the meal as quickly as possible in order to deal with any potential threat and to be better able to flee if need be. The diet of the brown house snake also includes lizards and small rodents. Brown house snakes grow to approximately 1.2 meters in length and are non venomous. Picture 4 is of a herald snake which was curled up on the seat of a cane chair on our veranda. Imagine the shock and disbelief of our gardener when he discovered the snake whilst cleaning the veranda. In the process of cleaning, he picked up the cushion under which the snake was sheltering but had the presence of mind to immediately replace the cushion before calling me. Herald snakes tend to put on an impressive display by hissing and striking when molested. It is a back fanged snake and its venom is very mild.
26 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Picture 5 is of a green water snake. We occasionally see these snakes in view of our house being situated on water. The snake is bright emerald green above with a white belly and reaches a length of only about 600mm. This variety spends most of its time on the ground in moist areas and preys mainly on frogs often catching them in the water. Shortly after I had photographed the snake it was discovered by two Natal francolins and they wasted no time in stomping on it and eating it for lunch. Picture 6 is of an Eastern Natal green snake which was traversing our lawn when it was halted mid-glide by the sudden appearance of a worker from our garden service. Both the snake and the worker froze long enough for me to be able to snap the photo. These snakes grow up to a metre in length, and similar to the green water snake - have large dark eyes with a thin yellow or orange iris surrounding three quarters of the pupil. Their
(and woolly neck storks for example) will snatch a snake whenever the opportunity presents itself. So too will slender mongooses catch and eat snakes whenever the opportunity arises. There are obviously other varieties of snakes on the Estate – for example the spotted/ variegated bush snake - which we have not encountered at our home. We had an incident prior to living on the Estate of a snake which had died on our property after being run over in the road by a car. When examining the snake I could not identify it by its colour which was almost a dark bluish shade. After phoning the snake park and describing the snake, I was informed that it was almost certainly a spotted bush snake and was told that when suffering stress or trauma, a snake’s colour can change.
7
diet consists mainly of lizards (especially geckos) and frogs but not toads. They are a dark grass green colour on top (note how the snake blends in with the grass in the picture) and yellow or yellow green underneath and mostly have some black visible along the back. Prior to coming to the Estate we had several experiences of these snakes at our previous residence. We had a cat that over a period of weeks caught four or five juvenile snakes and brought them into the house. This is a totally non venomous and non aggressive variety of snake. On one occasion we took a fully grown specimen off to the snake park as we had heard that they were in need of different varieties of snakes. Although the employee who helped us was more than willing to accept the snake, the park did not have an immediate shortage of Eastern Natal green snakes and he therefore recommended that we consider taking the snake back home and releasing it in the eaves of the house as he maintained it would then clean up our geckos. We did and it worked!
In the past we frequently saw night adders in our area on the Estate as these snakes feed on toads which are plentiful in the dam in front of our house. The specimen shown in picture 6 is the only night adder which I deemed necessary to relocate. Even though these snakes are nocturnal, during the daytime this particular one took to lying under the lip of the floor of the open veranda which leads off one of our bedrooms. Although it would no doubt have moved on after a while, I did not wish to take the chance of one of the grand children stepping on it as this variety of snake is venomous. Their venom is far less potent than other adder species though. One has to be very mindful when relocating a snake as the snake needs to be placed in an area where its natural food source is in plentiful supply. Pictures 7 and 8 were taken of a black headed heron devouring a snake in the EPA opposite our house. The pictures are unfortunately not very clear but serve to illustrate the fact that birds such as herons
Rather sadly we have seen a marked decline in snake sightings at our home and on the Estate over the last couple of years. One explanation could be the fact that the Estate is now far more developed than was previously the case. I have only ever seen one snake killed on the roads within the Estate so it is doubtful that “road kill” could be a significant contributing factor to a possible decline in numbers. Whatever the cause, the one thing which we can and should be doing something about in order to preserve the snake population on our Estate is to educate our domestics – especially gardeners – in order to ensure that they never kill snakes. It would be criminal to think that we are losing even one snake due to ignorance. Snakes help balance the ecology and to an extent reduce vermin on the Estate. The majority of our snakes are harmless and if left alone they will move on of their own accord but if any homeowner is anxious about the presence of a snake on their property then the security personnel are well equipped to catch and relocate the snake.
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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28 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Coastal Relocations endorses Estate lifestyle Jaqui Pieters (nee Coram) – Estate Two resident and Business Owner- Coastal Relocations-accredited leasing agents
F
or the past 14 years, I have been promoting the fantastic security and lifestyle of the Mount Edgecombe Estates to top corporate and local tenants. Testament to this is my own fairly recent move with my family to Estate Two.
the children to integrate and make friends. Other reasons for their choice of these Estates are the easy access and proximity to a wide variety of schools and the locality of the Umhlanga and La Lucia business-parks, the excellent quality of homes and beautiful lush gardens and golf course.
The Mount Edgecombe Golf Estates have always been the first choice of international assignees, who usually relocate to Durban on a three to five year working contract. An international relocation with a family can be a traumatic experience, not knowing what to expect and foremost, having security worries. Whilst showing clients homes and orientation of the area, we are able to reassure them on the excellent security, on the community living and lifestyle which makes it so much easier for the spouse and
Making the move with my family was one of the best decisions we have made. The peace of mind in terms of security cannot be overstated, the lovely walks with the children in the evenings after a busy day; the convenience of the country club and facilities make the Estates a wonderful place to live. I think a possible misconception is that the “rules� are onerous which I can say, from experience are not restrictive at all but make Estate living a pleasure for all.
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YOUR HOUSE, YOUR HOME
Eco Friendly
Will your home be bursting at the seams with family and friends these holidays? If so, you’ll want your home to be fresh and to look its best. Being summer, our homes are sometimes prone to that horrid fungus called mold. Thanks Sue Shafto for supplying this article. Mold is a pesky problem that has to be dealt with right away! Unfortunately, the most commonly used solutions are sometimes just as bothersome as the
problem itself! Fumigators, bleach and other specific products are bad for your health, heavy on the environment and risky for cute little nosy pets! Thankfully, natural and DIY sprays can be just as effective in ridding your home from the mold and mildew. Vinegar Sometimes, the oldest trick in the book does turn out to be one of the most effective! Vinegar alone is known to kill up to 82 percent of mold, if sprayed on the area and left to settle. White distilled vinegar can also be mixed with a few drops of
30 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
essential oils—for both effectiveness and a less disturbing smell. For a quick, effortless clean, generously pour vinegar on a disposable towel and wipe the mold off. After a couple of hours, wipe the area again, this time using a damp towel. Remember to allow the area to air dry properly and make sure you have proper ventilation, as mold thrives on humidity. You can also opt for a vinegar and baking soda-based concoction, made out of one part vinegar mixed with one part water, adding another two parts baking soda and one part vinegar. This will result in a thick paste that can be spread over the infested
Essential oils An easy — and more pleasant — method of ridding your house of mold is by using essential oils. Tea tree oil is an effective anti-microbial, and one teaspoon combined with two cups water can do wonders in cleaning your infested area. The same goes for grapefruit seed extract, a well-known antifungal and antibacterial agent that can be found at any health food store. Mix ten drops of grapefruit seed per cup of water and pour into a spray bottle; shake well and spray onto the surface where the mold is growing. No need to rinse it off; in fact, the longer it stays on the surface, the more powerful the effect! Pros: Despite being as eco-friendly as they get, essential oils are completely harmless to both people and pets. So if you have pets, essential oils are probably the best course of action. Cons: Whichever essential oil you might choose, it can get really expensive, especially if your mold has begun to spread.
area and left there until it dries. Once dry, simply scrub it off and reapply if needed. Pros: Vinegar-based mold removal solutions are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and easy to make. Not to mention that they call for using ingredients that you already have lying around in your kitchen, so no need to spend money. Cons: The smell can, at times, be quite disturbing, especially if vinegar needs to be sprayed on large portions. The vinegar and baking soda option can also require a lot of effort when applied on large areas.
Dry Ice Blasting Dry ice (and its ever increasing number of uses) has also made its way to our list of effective, environmentally friendly mold removals. Dry ice blasting removes mold naturally, the low temperature of the ice coupled with its high impact killing virtually every existing mold spore on the surface it is applied to. Pros: Non-toxic, requires no scrubbing or extra effort, and is highly effective. Cons: It can turn out to be quite expensive for small areas, and it must be handled with extra care. Hydrogen peroxide By spraying three percent hydrogen peroxide to a mold-infested surface, leaving it to sit for ten minutes, then scrubbing it carefully, you will be moldfree in no time! Adding vinegar to the mix
can help increase its effectiveness even more. Pros: Pretty effective, no hassle, and you can then store the hydrogen peroxide in a dark place until the next time you have use for it. Cons: Although commonly used in many medical and household products, if not scrubbed off properly, hydrogen peroxide may be harmful for your pets. Baking soda Another handy mold removal is baking soda, dissolved in either water or vinegar and sprayed onto the surface. Take 2 to 3 tablespoons baking soda, mix them in 2 cups warm water (mix well, or else the baking soda might clog your spray nozzle), then slowly add a cup of white distilled vinegar. Shake well, apply to the surface, let it sit about 15 minutes, then scrub it off using a heavy duty sponge. For lighter mold stains, mix baking soda with water alone to form a thick paste; apply it and let dry, then scrub off thoroughly. The baking soda removes all unwanted smells, while also bleaching the moldy areas. Half a cup of baking soda poured into your kitchen sink drain along with a cup of vinegar can also rid you of unwanted sink drain mold. Pros: Very cheap and you can usually find it lying around the house. Cons: Works solely on small mold infested areas, less effective on larger areas. Also, its role is mostly that of cleaning the mold from your walls, rather than killing the mold spores altogether. All the methods described above can prove to be extremely useful when dealing with growing mold and small infested areas around the house; however, if you find yourself dealing with extensive mold damage, don’t try to tackle it yourself and turn to a mold removal specialist before it spreads even further!
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Spirit of eLan
T
here just is no better way to spend two and a half hours on a perfect, sunny day than on the Spirit of eLan. If you’re looking for a company break-away, a year-end function with a difference, a party venue, an ocean spa pampering session, or just a fantastic romantic spoil, look no further. You can hire the Spirit of eLan at an hourly rate and cruise the Durban Harbour and beachfront whilst enjoying canapés and Champagne, with the sun (hopefully) keeping you warm, the wind in your hair and the sea gently making noises below the keel of the yacht — simply perfect!
The Spirit of eLan is 45-foot Royal Cape Catamaran with five en-suite cabins (four Queen, one King). It can be chartered for as long or as short a period as you need (one hour being the minimum for a cruise) and can accommodate 20 people. Based at Wilson’s Wharf, it is just perfect and easily accessible! Gary has been the skipper on every cruise we have been on so that you know that you will be in good and capable hands. The yacht boasts a fully-kitted-out galley, a gas braai and a comfortable lounge, as well as two cockpit tables with seating area outside. She is the Durban Harbour’s official
Peroni Yacht and there is a small cash bar on board which stocks Peroni Beer, Brutal Fruit and Sarita drinks at R10.00 per unit. There is a catering option, but guests are welcome to bring their own food / snacks on board. There is also a gas braai on board which can be used, but a charter of three hours or longer is required as they cannot braai whilst under sail — the yacht has to be stationary and at anchor. I have decided that FOR SURE the next time I go on a cruise, I need to experience a braai on the yacht as that seems like the PERFECT South African way to be... sea, sun, wind and a braai. Yes, that is gonna be me!
To book cruises, boat Spa treatments, twilight cruises, dinner parties, chill down board meetings, breakfast cruises, brunch cruises, with Gary on +27 (82) 871 1249 or Amanda on +27 (82) 854 2737 or Seetha on +27 (83) 353 1560 or www.spiritofelan.co.za.
32 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
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for our kids sake
Drug
Abuse So far I've covered nicotine, alcohol, E, marijuana, coke and heroin. All drugs are dangerous so I stress to you again: “… the use of narcotics is not going away so rather than tell you "don't" because you probably will, we're offering you accurate information so you can make informed choices.” I now take you on a trip with LSD and Magic Mushrooms.
LSD (Acid) Of the drugs I've researched and featured, none is as interesting as LSD. For instance some users consider LSD a religious sacrament whilst clinically, it has been used to treat alcoholism and as an analgesic for serious and chronic pain caused by cancer or other major trauma. Because I wasn’t sure of these pointers, I once again turned to Dr Stephan Joubert, a neurosurgeon who lives on the Estate who clarified by stating: “The clinical effect is well known but the side effect profile completely negates the use in the real world. The alcoholics quickly become LSD addicts, and the serious long-term psychological effects even in low doses make any real clinical use obsolete.” Although they say that
34 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
medical research has resumed around the world, I’d be likely to believe what Dr Joubert states. Let’s get to it then shall we. LSD is a potent, mood-changing chemical and is considered to be the most powerful recreational hallucinogenic. It is manufactured from lysergic acid, which is found in the ergot fungus that grows on rye and other grains. It’s a colourless, tasteless, odourless, crystalline substance which is soluble in water or alcohol. LSD is licked or sucked off small squares of blotting paper. Capsules and liquid forms are swallowed. Paper squares containing acid may be decorated with cute cartoon characters or colourful designs.
disorientation, anxiety and distress • prolonged anxiety and depression after use of the drug is stopped. LSD may temporarily impair the ability to make sensible judgments and understand common dangers, thus making the user more susceptible to accidents and personal injury. It may cause temporary confusion, difficulty with abstract thinking, or signs of impaired memory and attention span. LSD trips are typically elicited by triggers such as alcohol or cannabis use, stress, caffeine, or sleepiness. The heaven: It seems as though you have your senses crossed, giving you the feeling of hearing colours and seeing sounds. Taken in large enough doses, LSD produces delusions and visual hallucinations. The hell: Bad trips may cause panic attacks, confusion, depression, and frightening delusions. Mental disorders such as schizophrenia and severe depression are prevalent. If the user is in a hostile or otherwise unsettling environment, or is not mentally prepared for the powerful distortions in perception and thought that the drug causes, effects are more likely to be unpleasant than if he or she is in a comfortable environment and has a relaxed, balanced and open mindset. Users often have flashbacks in which they feel some of the effects of LSD at a later time without having used the drug again.
From a pharmacological point-of-view LSD is non-addictive, is not known to cause brain damage, and has extremely low toxicity relative to dose. However, adverse psychiatric reactions such as anxiety, paranoia, and delusions are possible. The possible long-term effects of LSD are • a growing tolerance to the drug, which disappears quickly after use of the drug is stopped; • flashbacks (that is, short-lived, intense re-experiences of part of a previous trip) which can occur days or even months after the last dose has been taken, leading to
Effects on the brain: LSD affects a large number of chemicals in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin. The drug may also over stimulate the brain cells and causing an “electric storm’’. Each electric storm causes hallucinations, but can lead to permanent changes. Hallucinations occur within 30 to 90 minutes of dropping acid. People say their senses are intensified and distorted — they see colors or hear sounds with other delusions such as melting walls and a loss of any sense of time. But effects are unpredictable, depending on how much LSD is taken and the user. Once you go on an acid trip, you can't get off until the drug is finished with you — at times up to about 12 hours or even longer!
since prehistoric times and may have been depicted in rock art. Many cultures have used these mushrooms in religious rites. In modern Western society, they are used recreationally for their psychedelic effects. Psilocybin and psilocin are mind altering chemicals which create short-term increases in tolerance of users, thus making it difficult to abuse them because the more often they are taken within a short period of time, the weaker the resultant effects are. Psilocybin mushrooms do not cause physical or psychological dependence. The effects of psychedelic mushrooms are subjective and can vary considerably among individual users. The mind-altering effects of psilocybin-containing mushrooms typically last from three to eight hours depending on dosage, preparation method, and personal metabolism. However, the effects can seem to last much longer to the user because of psilocybin's ability to alter time perception. Shrooms are usually found as a small packet of dried vegetable matter, mainly grey in colour resembling tree bark. This is broken into small pieces and ground into a grey powder. Then it’s swallowed with either food or liquid ~ the taste and smell is distinctive and unpleasant. If smoked, the trip can be quite hectic. The effects of shrooms usually last around 6 hours, similar to LSD and have been described as more natural. Visual and mental hallucinations occur with feelings of becoming one with everything and melting into your surroundings. Sometimes intense self examination occurs as well as enjoying profound relaxation. It’s therefore really important to not try shrooms if you are in a negative frame of mind – your feelings will be magnified during the trip and you may become anguished. The side effects are mostly nausea and loss of co-ordination. It’s advised that you don’t just go and pick mushrooms unless you know what you are doing. Most mushrooms grown wild are poisonous and people have been known to die from mushroom poisoning after eating the wrong mushroom. Next month: Kat and GHB
MAGIC MUSHROOMS Psilocybin mushrooms have likely been used
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PEACE OF MIND
Events
Umhlanga Summer Carnival Shongweni Farmers Christmas Market North Coast Festival Nitro Circus
Umhlanga Gillitts Ballito Moses Mabhida Stadium
Mother Teresa
Cricket ODI: 03 06 08 12 15
December December December December December
SA SA SA SA SA
vs vs vs vs vs
India India India India India
East London Centurion Joburg Bloem Cape Town
14h30 14h30 10h00 14h30 10h00
Test: 26 December 2 January 2014 15 January 2014 12 February 2014 20 February 2014
U7-22 December 2013 16 December 2013 TBA 19 February 2014
“Life is an opportunity, benefit from it. Life is beauty, admire it. Life is a dream, realize it. Life is a challenge, meet it. Life is a duty, complete it. Life is a game, play it. Life is a promise, fulfill it. Life is sorrow, overcome it. Life is a song, sing it. Life is a struggle, accept it. Life is a tragedy, confront it. Life is an adventure, dare it. Life is luck, make it. Life is too precious, do not destroy it. Life is life, fight for it.�
SA SA SA SA SA
vs vs vs vs vs
India India India Aus Aus
Durban Cape Town Joburg Centurion Port Elizabeth
10h30 10h30 10h30 10h30 10h30
* Dates correct at time of going to press
36 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
Rinaldo Veterinary Hospital
Dr. John Morton & Associates
mon-Fri: 08:00am - 18:00pm sat: 08:30am - 13:00pm sun: 10:00am - 12:00pm Consultations by appointment 102 Umhlanga Rocks Drive Durban North, 4051 Tel: 031 563 5180 Fax: 031 563 8998 jamm@mweb.co.za
AFTeR HoURs emeRgeNCies Tel: 031 207 1300
FUNFF STU I'm not an oenophile, not by any measure. I've tasted my share of fine red wines; some worth trying again and others, well there are wines that abuse the right to be called wine in the first place! I have discovered my favourite wine at last and order through their website every month. I found this and would like to share it with you. I’d like to thank Van Loveren Wines for allowing me to use this information. http://www.vanloveren.co.za Fun Facts about wine • Did you know that one hectare of land is home to between 3 000 and 6 000 vines and sometimes even up to 10 000? • You wouldn’t guess it, but there are between 35 and 60 clusters of grapes per vine. • Each bottle of wine contains about 1.5kg of grapes. • One vine produces between 24 and 36 glasses of wine. • A ton of grapes makes about 720 bottles of wine. • One barrel of wine equals 1 800 glasses of wine …hmmm…all I can say is bring me that barrel
on Two My domestic worker will have 2 days (Monday and Fridays) available to work for someone on the estate from 1 December. She has worked for me for about 5 years and is registered on the estate with access etc. Please contact me on 0827856316 or Karin.zarnack@unilever.com My gardener is available ~ Old school Zulu gentleman, middle aged and trustworthy. Worked previously for landscaping business. Please Phone Michelle 084 563 7018 If you are getting rid of a mattress, beds or any other basic household items you no longer need, please contact me – Yvette 083 633 3748 Mount Edgecombe Cricket Camp, 9-11 December, Greenbier Community Centre, Boys age 8-14 welcome, 8am-12pm. Contact John on 076 521 71 47 for more info or to book your place! See you there! Please contact me at Swag Tab for top quality affordable Android tablets with the best turn around warranty available on tablets in South Africa. We also offer top quality power banks (portable chargers) for phones, tablets etc…These are the Perfect Christmas gifts. Please visit www.swag-tab.com or contact us on 031 566 6508 ~ Simone Briant/ Charlene Heeralall
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BODY TALK by
Yvette Farinha
T
he holidays are here at last! ‘Tis the season to be jolly and boy, jolly we become; we drink too much, eat too much and don’t pay much attention to our bodies. We tirelessly sweat and train throughout the year to keep our physiques looking as good as possible and then wham bam, the festive season tampers with all that labour! I’d like to say it’s okay to overindulge, unfortunately the trouble is that when we awake on the 2nd January with our newly formed resolutions swimming through our fuzzy heads, we’ll probably feel three things: guilty, grumpy, grotesque! Instead let’s enjoy the season, gain those few kg’s that can’t be avoided and follow these simple tips so when 2014 dawns, we’ll feel less guilty, less grumpy, less grotesque! Don’t even bother to tell yourself you’re not going to overindulge ~ the minute you have that extra mince pie, or piece of succulent gammon, you will beat yourself up about it. This will only make you feel miserable. Remember, it’s the Festive season and you will gain at least 2kg (this according to a survey done by Pharma Dynamics!) Start taking your Milk Thistle ~ Dischem stocks the Biogen range and these pills have sufficient mg to help your liver along. Take them every day for great results. In fact, if you do partake of the vine, the hops and the malt, then Milk Thistle
should be on your list of vitamins to take first thing in the morning anyway. Drink water between your drinks and when you go to bed ~ it keeps you hydrated and you’ll wake up feeling a little less bleary eyed and bloated. Have a light snack before going out, that way you won’t stuff your face when you arrive at your party. Stick to your eating habits by not skipping meals and snacks ~ if you don’t you’ll be ravenous and later, on your way home after midnight, you’ll stop at your local petrol station for a pie or hotdog. Don’t do it! This will only increase the event of heartburn, a major culprit of discomfort when overindulging. Taking Alkaline powder will help regulate the body’s acidic/alkaline balance. There are so many foods you should avoid, but we both know that’s not going to happen. If you can though, stay away from the breads and the crisps; this will only wreak havoc on your sugar levels. Stick to the healthier snacks like your crudités, stuffed eggs, olives and gherkins. These will fill you up and you’ll be less likely to eat the unhealthy stuff. The main meal! Well, this is the best part isn’t it! I mean when you are faced with a spread of
38 | Mount Edgecombe country club - Estate Two
different meats, roast spuds, delicious veggies and gravy, how can you not stack your plate? The trick is, load up with the veggies, at least half your plate first. Then choose your meat and instead of 5 spuds, take two and only pour a slight amount of gravy over your food. Opt for cranberry sauce if it’s available; it’s loaded with antioxidants. If you want seconds, wait 15 minutes and if you are still hungry, go for it, but just watch the serving size. Dessert. For most, this is the reason for having a main meal, what with all those delicious looking meringue thingos, the choccie éclairs, the pavlova, the mousse, the ever present Christmas Trifle! Relax, I'm not going to tell you to avoid it because you’re going to have it anyway. Enjoy that treat. Now the part most of us are less likely to get excited about. Exercise. After you have finished drinking your tea in the morning on your patio, take in your surroundings, fill your lungs with crisp fresh air and put your takkies on! Yep, I actually dare you to get your butt out there and go for a run, a walk, a cycle, a swim even. I frequently go for walks on this magnificent estate during my lunch hour and honestly, it’s invigorating. Just do it! You have another party to go to later, so burn those calories off right away. With that out the way, all that remains to be said is have fun and enjoy the festive season.
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Craig and Staff would like to thank all our clients for their support this year. Wishing you a Wonderful Festive Season and All the Best for 2014.
Email: ctvincent@vodamail.co.za
Craig Vincent: 082 566 43 43
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Taste Buds
Easy Christmas
Roast Duck with Crispy Potatoes
& Port Gravy Instructions Pick the leaves off one of the rosemary sprigs and place on a board with the nutmeg, orange zest, thyme and one tablespoon of sea salt. Chop everything together and rub the mixture all over the ducks, inside and out. Cover and leave in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the flavours penetrate. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4 and place the shelves on the middle and bottom levels. Stuff the ducks with the remaining rosemary sprigs and orange halves, and the garlic cloves, then place them breast-side up, straight on to the bars of the middle shelf. Scatter the onion, celery and carrot in the bottom of a large, deep-sided roasting tray with the cinnamon, ginger, bay leaves, and chopped duck neck and giblets. Place on the bottom shelf beneath the ducks so it will catch all the lovely fat that drips out of them. Meanwhile, place the potatoes in a pan. Cover with cold, salted water, bring to a simmer and parboil for 5 to 10 minutes, then tip into a colander and chuff them up a little.
Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
a few sprigs of fresh rosemary ½ nutmeg, grated sea salt freshly ground black pepper 2 oranges, zested and halved 2 x 2 kg whole ducks, necks and giblets reserved and roughly chopped 8 cloves garlic, unpeeled 3 red onions, peeled and quartered a few stalks celery, trimmed and chopped into chunks 3 carrots, scrubbed and chopped into chunks ½ stick cinnamon 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped a few bay leaves 2 kg roasting potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks 1 litre water or organic chicken stock 2 tablespoons plain flour 200 ml red port
After the duck has roasted for an hour, take the bottom tray out of the oven, replacing it immediately with an empty tray. Spoon the fat from the veggie tray into a bowl. Put all the veg, duck bits and juices into a large saucepan, then add a little boiling water to the tray to get all the sticky brown bits off the bottom – this is what you’re going to make your gravy with. Tip the water and brown bits into the pan with the veg, top up with 1 litre of water or chicken stock and place on a medium heat, skimming off any of the fat that rises to the top. Put your parboiled potatoes into the empty tray in the oven. Add a few more tablespoons of duck fat from the bowl, season, and place back underneath the ducks to cook for an hour. Meanwhile, heat a saucepan and add 2 tablespoons of duck fat. When it’s hot and melted, add the flour and stir with a wooden spoon until you have a paste. Stir in the contents of the saucepan and the port. Bring the gravy to the boil and simmer gently for half an hour, stirring occasionally. By now the ducks will have had 2 hours in the oven and will be done. Lift them on to a plate, cover loosely with tin foil and leave to rest for about 15 minutes. Pour the gravy through a sieve into a clean saucepan, pressing down on all the veg and other bits to extract as many flavours and juices as you can. Keep the gravy warm in the saucepan, again skimming off any fat on the surface. Don’t carve the ducks – the best thing to do is to pull the meat away from the bones with a pair of tongs or with your fingers wearing clean kitchen gloves, then let everyone fight over the delicious skin! Serve with your potatoes and port gravy.
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