George Rate Payers Association: Building a Sustainable City Through Accountability

George, 8 June 2023 – The George Rate Payers Association (GRPA) has been making significant strides in its mission to hold local government accountable for its actions and promote a sustainable city. Under the leadership of Chairman Juan Barnard, the association has been actively engaged in various initiatives and collaborations to address the pressing issues facing the community.One of the key areas of focus for the GRPA has been the challenging budgets and by-laws implemented by the municipality. Recognizing the need for a sustainable financial framework, the association has voiced its concern over the municipality’s reliance on middle to upper-income citizens as cash cows. This approach is not conducive to building a city that can thrive in the long term.In response to these challenges, the GRPA has made a conscious decision to partner with the Organisation Against Tax Abuse (OATA). By aligning themselves with OATA, the association aims to establish the GRPA as a reputable and enduring organization that can effectively address the concerns of ratepayers.Over the past few months, the GRPA has been proactive in engaging with various stakeholders. The association has met with planning and budget officials, participated in coalition meetings, and actively contributed to the Southern Cape Ratepayers meeting. The advisory panel of the GRPA has also provided invaluable input on numerous by-laws, dedicating countless voluntary hours to this effort.Additionally, the GRPA has thrown its support behind Gardag, an organization that is challenging the dam decision through a legal review. This alliance showcases the association’s commitment to advocating for the best interests of ratepayers and ensuring transparent decision-making processes.To ensure the effective execution of its mandates, the GRPA has appointed champions to oversee specific portfolios. This strategic approach enables the association to address critical issues in a comprehensive and targeted manner.In an effort to strengthen its resources and capacity, the GRPA has introduced membership fees. This step allows the association to harness the support and collective power of ratepayers, enhancing its ability to bring about positive change.Recognizing the importance of effective communication, the GRPA has engaged with prominent media outlets such as George Herald, The Weekend Argus, Eden FM, and Cape Talk. These partnerships serve as channels to disseminate information, raise awareness, and encourage public participation in the association’s endeavors.The GRPA is determined to hold those in power accountable by posing relevant questions and seeking answers. The association will provide a fair opportunity for the authorities to respond before disseminating the information and feedback to its members.Furthermore, the GRPA maintains an open WhatsApp group, allowing for regular and meaningful engagement with the community. This platform has proven instrumental in driving the association’s vision forward, enabling members to share information, contribute ideas, and actively participate in the decision-making process.The GRPA welcomes contributions and encourages interested parties to join the WhatsApp group or email their comments to george.rpa.sa@gmail.com. By expanding its membership base, the association aims to amplify its impact and work collaboratively toward a sustainable future for George.Chairman Juan Barnard expressed gratitude to all members for their valuable contributions thus far. He emphasized the importance of collective action and urged ratepayers to continue their support in holding local government accountable. Together, the GRPA and the community can strive for a city that thrives economically, socially, and environmentally, ensuring a better future for all.

Ontmoet vir Geraldo – uitmuntende musikant

Ek ken die jong man. Een van George se beste kunstenaars – in teendeel die hele Lewis familie is kunstenaars van formaat. Die man het ‘n pragtige stem, en ‘n storie wat jou gaan inspireer. Hier is Geraldo se storie – geniet dit.
Soms gooi di lewe jou in n rigting waar jy nooit gedink het jy gaan beland ni…
Music is my passie. Ek het altyd gdink dat dit my werk kan wees en so n goeie inkomste kan verdien. Toe ek 20 kom word het, het ek vir myself gese as ek 25 is en dit het nog nix vir my bewys, gaan ek my music net n klein tydtji eenkant skyf. Ek was in bands van kleins af so ek het geglo dit kan werk (eiewys gewees). Moet my ni verkeerd verstaan nie ek het ook n normal werk gehad soos di tyd gaan. Tot waar ek g’retrench was. Ek is imand wat raak vat al doen ek wat watse werk. EK glo altyd als wat j doen moet j doen tot di beste van jou vermoe (you never know)…
Ek word toe retrench by di airport eventhou ek in my eerste 2 maande as team leader an gestel was. Soos tyd gaan word ek acting manager ook gemaak. Ons was n agency soos workforce. In daai tyd het ek n mooi princess opad (first born), dat ek gaan pa word. So ek dink nog ek moet di laat werk want ek moet voorsien. But ek en nog een productive werker Lee-roy Qhamani Buys word toe retrench. En my hoof vriend staan op trou ook daai oomblik.
But God!
My vriend lewe soos n king vdag. Ek het op my laagste gevoel. But God sluimer of slaap nooit. God het geweet hoekom Hy dt toe gelaat om t gbeur met ons
Daai selfde dag van ons retranchment hoor ek by Grant Bokkies daar is poste oop by Africa skills. Ek loop toe met rugsak tot daar en ek doen aansoek. 3dae daarna bel hulle my ek is aanvaar. Di vrou wat my bel se my daar is net iets omtrent my ID foto,my gesig
Sy gaan my n kans gee. (Die guns van God). Ek doen my 3jaar prakties by hulle wat successful was. Dank God daarvoor. Ek is vdag qualified in my amp en ook 3jaar in di trade. Ek het n nuwe passie kom op doen but soos ek in my boodskap se ek is n raak vatter.
By gese in di trade moet jy hare op jou tande het. Dis ni maaklik ni, baie wysheid van God af nodig in di construction wereld. Anders is j manet n noge ek weet nie.
My punt wat ek wil lig is. Want ek praat nou baie. Jou tyd is ni altyd di regte tyd ni. God laat dinge op ju pad kom om ju reg te maak vir dit wat Hy in store het vir jou. Want wat Hy vir jou het is better as wat jy vir jouself ghad het. Music is in my ek sal altyd dt het, as ek dit mooi opas en God het reeds leke deur gekom nou vir my in my music bedryf. Ek het net besef dat God knows best en Hy sal nooit sy kinders insteek laat ni. God first in all that you do. Ons is alml manet mens but nooit vgeet om t bid en ook net danki t se al is j op jou laagste. God seen.

Meet Sabrina Horn

{“TRAIN UP A CHILD IN THE WAY HE SHOULD GO,AND WHEN HE GROWS OLD,HE WILL NOT DEPART FROM IT”}
Psalm 22:6
Sabrina is a 27 year old George local with a heart for the marginalized youth of South Africa. After completing her studies in consumer sciences at the North West University,she realised that her true calling lies in working with the youth.
During her discipleship training year with Ethnos Movement International, she realised that so many youth programmes only focus on pre- and primary school children and saw the massive need to work with and minister to teenagers. This would include building valuable,long lasting relationships with the youth in order to point them to Salvation and help them reach their potential. And so Local Motion, a non-profit organisation, focusing on discipleship and reaching and uplifting the hearts and minds of marginalised high school students, was born. 
Sabrina Horn
Like so many other things in life, it was not necessarily an easy process: Sabrina started out as youth worker at Parkdene High in January 2020, focussing on building relationship with the children at school, and then the Covid 19 pandemic hit.
Amazingly enough, Sabrina managed to keep on investing in the students’ lives all through that difficult year. She recalls how they went on hikes into the mountains between 06h00 – 09h00, when the public was allowed to go out for exercises, using breaks to fellowship and pray together.
Today, three years later, they have a vibrant, holistic youth programme, running four days a week from a premise in Borcherds. The programme includes homework assistance with maths, art sessions, which exposes the students to different art mediums and also provides a valuable counselling opportunity, adventure activities, surfing and attending a youth service at Shofar George once a week.
Most of the youth attending the programme comes from George High and Parkdene, although they also have a couple of dedicated grade 7 students. The programme is completely free, but students need to show commitment and obtain an academic pass rate of at least 50%.
Apart from the above-mentioned activities, Local Motion also help learners think ahead and plan for their future, whether by helping them apply to university and bursaries or placing them in internships positions at local businesses, or even assisting students with getting licenses.
When asked about the NGO’s financial and physical needs, Sabrina responds with a testimony that humbled me: of how the Lord has always provided enough money for salaries to be paid and new volunteers, when old ones’ season come to an end.
However,organisations like Local Motion always need funding in order to reach more of the youth and expand their offering. The same with volunteers: the more volunteers,the bigger the skill sets that they will be able to assist the students with.
If you feel moved to get involved with Local Motion and sow into the hearts and minds of our town’s youth, please visit their Instagram or Facebook page or mail them at info@localmotionza.org. They also host weekly prayer meetings at their youth centre (9 Thomas Street, Borcherds) on Mondays between 13h00-14h00, where those who feel called, can come and join in praying for our youth and the organisations impact in the community.
You can also have a look at a short video about Local Motion below👇
The article is from The Harvester follow them at https://www.facebook.com/celebratingtheharvest

George Landbou Skou 2023: ‘n Feestelike Blyk van Landbou Prestasie en Kultuur

Vanaf 24 tot 26 Augustus vanjaar, sal die George Landbou Skou weer sy hekke oopmaak vir besoekers van regoor die land. Dié gewilde skou, wat vir 163 jaar bekendstaan as ‘n belangrike gebeurtenis op die Suid-Afrikaanse landboukalender, beloof om ‘n onvergeetlike ervaring te wees. Hierdie jaar, in besonder, sal die skou ‘n prestasievolle hoogtepunt bereik met die insluiting van die kampioenskappe vir drie suiwelrasse, naamlik SA Jersey, Holstein Friese en Ayrshire.

Die skou sal ook die Wêreldbeker Tentpegging-kampioenskappe aanbied, wat ‘n spannende spektakel van vaardigheid en behendigheid op perderyvlak bied. Hierdie kompetisie trek die beste tentpegging-atlete van regoor die wêreld aan, en dit beloof om toeskouers te vermaak met hul ongelooflike vertonings.

Een van die grootste aantreklikhede van die George Landbou Skou is die uitstalling van diere en hierdie jaar sal nie teleurstel nie. Met ‘n indrukwekkende aantal van 85 saalperde wat aan die Saalperd kompetisie deelneem, sal besoekers die pragtige en statige vertonings van hierdie edele diere kan bewonder. Dit is ‘n geleentheid wat kenmerkend is vir die kundigheid en passie van die plaaslike saalperd gemeenskap.

Saam met die jaarlikse skaap uitstalling en kompetisie, is dit ook die eerste keer dat boerbokke op die skou uitgestal sal word. Hierdie nuwe toevoeging sal ‘n welkome aanvulling wees op die verskeidenheid diere wat alreeds op die skou te sien is. Besoekers sal die geleentheid hê om hierdie pragtige diere te bewonder en meer te leer oor die belangrike rol wat hulle speel in die landboubedryf.

Daarnaas sal die George Landbou Skou ook weer ‘n groot pluimvee-afdeling hê, wat ‘n diversiteit van geveerde vriende sal uitstal. Van hoenders tot eende, water voëls en duiwe, hierdie afdeling bied ‘n blik op die verskeidenheid pluimveesoorte wat in Suid-Afrikaanse landbou gevind kan word.

Vir diegene wat belangstel in kuns en musiek, sal die skou ook ‘n groot verskeidenheid kunstenaars aanbied. Emo Adams en Jay, saam met talle plaaslike kunstenaars, sal optredes lewer wat besoekers sal vermaak en hulle ‘n smaak van plaaslike kultuur sal gee.

Maar dit is nie net diere en vermaak nie – die George Landbou Skou het ook ‘n uitgebreide stalletjie-afdeling waar besoekers landboutoerusting, motors en ‘n verskeidenheid produkte kan verken terwyl hulle smul aan die heerlikste kos wat soos gewoonlik by die skou aangebied word.

Naas die opwindende vertonings van diere, kunstenaars en landbouprodukte, sal die George Landbou Skou ook verskeie sportsoorte aanbied om besoekers te betrek en vermaak. Een van die hoogtepunte is die kragman-kompetisie, waar sterk atlete hul vaardighede sal wys deur middel van gewigstoot- en kragdemonstrasies. Hierdie kompetisie bied ‘n adrenalienpompende vertoning vir toeskouers wat hulself wil verwonder oor die indrukwekkende krag en uithouvermoë van die deelnemers.

Vir diegene wat ‘n rustiger en denkende sportsoort verkies, sal skaak ook op die program wees. Skaakliefhebbers sal die geleentheid hê om hul vaardighede teen mekaar te meet en hul strategiese denke te beproef in ‘n gesellige en gesamentlike omgewing.

Verder sal daar op Saterdag aand opwindende Ovaalben-wedrenne plaasvind. Hierdie wedrenne, wat gewoonlik in ‘n baie gesellige en feesagtige atmosfeer plaasvind, bied die kans vir besoekers om hul gunstelingrenjaers te ondersteun. Dit is ‘n geleentheid waar pret en opwinding hand aan hand gaan, en toeskouers sal geniet om die motors op die baan in aksie te sien terwyl die spanning styg.

Die George Landbou Skou 2023 beloof om ‘n ervaring te wees wat landbou prestasie, plaaslike kultuur en sportsoorte saambring. Besoekers sal ‘n blik kan vang op die hoogtepunte van die Suid-Afrikaanse landboubedryf, terwyl hulle ook vermaak word deur die verskeidenheid kunstenaars, die plaaslike gemeenskap, en die opwindende sportsoorte wat aangebied word. Hierdie skou bied ‘n unieke geleentheid om ‘n beter begrip van landbou en plaaslewe te kry, terwyl dit ook ‘n gesellige en prettige atmosfeer bied vir gesinne en besoekers van alle ouderdomme om van te geniet.

 

WhatsApp Allows Users to Edit Messages

COMING SOON WhatsApp, the popular messaging app,is finally rolling out a long-awaited feature: the ability to edit messages. Users can now edit any message they have sent within 15 minutes of sending it. To edit a message, simply long-press on the message and select “Edit.” You can then make your changes and send the message again.The new editing feature is a welcome addition to WhatsApp. It will be especially useful for correcting typos or making minor changes to messages. It will also be helpful for adding additional information to messages or changing the tone of a message.Once it is available, the editing feature will be available for all WhatsApp users. To use it, you will need to update your WhatsApp app to the latest version.How to Edit Messages on WhatsAppTo edit a message on WhatsApp, follow these steps:
  1. Open the WhatsApp chat where the message you want to edit is located.
  2. Long-press on the message you want to edit.
  3. Select “Edit.”
  4. Make your changes to the message.
  5. Tap “Send.”
The edited message will appear in the chat with an “Edited” label. Other users in the chat will be able to see that the message has been edited.Limitations of the Editing FeatureThere are a few limitations to the editing feature. First, you can only edit messages within 15 minutes of sending them. Second, other users in the chat will be able to see that you have edited the message. Finally, the editing feature is not available for group chats.Despite these limitations, the editing feature is a welcome addition to WhatsApp. It will be especially useful for correcting typos or making minor changes to messages. It will also be helpful for adding additional information to messages or changing the tone of a message.

Job Hunting: Networking With Others is the Keys to Success

You can never underestimate the power of networking. Often success is directly proportional to the size of the social circle. Whether you are looking for an entry level job or wanting to climb the career ladder you will need some kind of networking savvy in order to survive in the business world.If you are looking for an entry level job your networking skills might be more important than the quality of your CV. Research shows that most jobs are obtained through contacts before the jobs even become open to the general public. In the established business world strong networking skills are shown to be one of the most powerful predictors in success. If you struggle with people skills and need some help expanding your network read on.You will need to collect up all the business cards and contact numbers of the people you already know. Make one central place where you keep all your contacts’ information.The Internet opens up a myriad of opportunities for those nervous about networking and interpersonal skills. With email and web sites you can reach a wider network than you ever could the ‘old fashioned way’. Even building a simple website could open up many new (international) contacts and opportunities. If you are able to effectively network online can be one of the most effective tools for those seeking jobs. Discussion forums, newsgroups, discussion groups and exchange ideas – and most importantly contact details.There is no substitute for good old fashioned networking. You cannot replace the value of a first impression or underestimate the importance of really meeting people vs meeting online (although online meetings can reduce the stress and pressure associated with the first meeting).If you are hesitant about networking because you lack confidence, then perhaps consider joining an organization such as Toastmasters. This is a public speaking organization which will help you build confidence and you can join from anywhere in the world. An added bonus – you will meet many new contacts and expand your circles.Get creative with your networking. Look for opportunities to meet people and widen your social and business circles. If you are new to the job market, here are some networking strategies for first time job seekers. If you are looking for a job you need to keep expanding your network continually.1. Make sure you understand how to use the internet to search effectively. Use all ways you can think of to come across new opportunities as they arrive2. Create a spreadsheet or table, of all your contacts. Add as much information as you can: things like company names, titles, names of key contacts, phone numbers, and emails – any information you can. Leave space for notes and keep your table as organized and up to date as possible.3. Regular contact: this is vital to the success of your network. Use any opportunity to connect. Ask advice, offer information you think will be useful to them – find reasons to communicate. When they respond make sure to thank them. It’s important not to take your network for granted.4. Initiate face to face contact whenever possible.5. Never pass up an opportunity to get out there and network. If you are in an industry that requires more networking and socializing then limit the amount of times you may say ‘no’. For example for every 2 invitations you turn down you must attend one.6. Collect your contacts and feel free to call on them should the need arise.7. Thank your contacts whenever they do something for you. Always be polite and courteous and do your best to respond to them timorously too. You want to come across as professional.Local Networking in George:George Connect – Join WhatsApp Group George Sakekamer George BNI

REMINDER ON STATUS OF George Municipal By-laws still open for Comment

Issued George Municipality,  22 May 2023 George Municipality has since last year reviewed a number of existing and/or drafted new by-laws for a number of directorates. The by-laws allow for an individual municipality to regulate the affairs and the services it provides within its area of jurisdiction. The details of by-laws can differ from one municipality to another, and the public is always advised to check their local municipal by-laws which can be found on the relevant municipal website www.george.gov.za.Public ParticipationAll of the By-laws have been workshopped with Council to provide all Councillors an opportunity for inputs. A public participation process is then followed which allows members of the public to provide their comments and input. Once the input has been received from the public and addressed, the final by-law then goes back to Council for approval.STATUS OF BY-LAWS BEING REVIEWED CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICESNEW Public Transport, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023  Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Water and Sanitation Services By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023NEW Stormwater By-law, Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Water Services By-law (Restrict the use of Water), Civil Engineering Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/civil-engineering-services/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged: via mail to reach the Director: Civil Engineering Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023 ; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to CES By-laws ” to gvanniekerk@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.zaAny person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Jannie Koegelenberg (044 801 9278 ).FINANCIAL SERVICESCustomer Care, Credit Control and Debt Collection By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023      Tariff By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Rates By-law, Financial Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023https://www.george.gov.za/finance-cat/bylaws-and-regulations/finance-bylaws-and-regualtions/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for FINANCIAL SERVICES Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at: via mail to Director: Financial Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Financial By-Laws, 2023” to rcoetzee@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.zaAny persons who are unable to read or write but wish to participate in the process will be assisted during office hours by appointment with Mr. Renaldo Coetzee at the George Municipality Main Offices, to transcribe their comments / representations. Appointments can be made via telephone at (044) 801 9122.ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES Electricity Supply By-law, Electrotechnical Services – Open for comment until 12 June 2023 https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/electrotechnical-services/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for ELECTROTECHNICAL SERVICES Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Mr Edward Nqumse: Electrotechnical Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Electricity By-laws” to ennqumse@george.gov.za and njikija@george.gov.za as well as copied to post@george.gov.zaAny person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Edward Nqumse (044- 8019218).COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SERVICES (Cleansing, Parks and Recreation, Environmental, Sport)Cemeteries and Crematoria By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Public Amenities By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Air Quality Management By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Public Nuisances By-law, Community Services Directorate – Open for comment until 12 June 2023https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/community-services/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SERVICES Written comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Mr Sivuyile Mtila, Community Services, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Community Services By-laws” to smtila@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.zaAny person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Mr Sivuyile Mtila  (044- 802 2900).COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SAFETY SERVICES (Disaster Management Services, Law Enforcement, Traffic Services)Impounding of Animals By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Keeping of dogs, cats and other animals By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Liquor Trading By-laws, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023Community Fire Safety By-law, Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023NEW Remotely Piloted Aircraft By-Law – Community Services Directorate/Community Safety – Open for comment until 12 June 2023https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/protection-services/PUBLIC PARTICIPATION DETAILS for COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORATE – COMMUNITY SAFETY SERVICESWritten comments to the intention of the Municipality as outlined above, if any, must be lodged at:  via mail to reach Ms Lee-Anne Meiring, Community Safety, P.O. Box 19, George, 6530 before 12 June 2023; or via e-mail with subject line “Comment to Community Safety By-laws” to lmeiring@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.zaAny person who is unable to write, can submit their input, verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing. Enquiries can be directed to Ms Lee-Anne Meiring (044- 801 6350).HUMAN SETTLEMENTS, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DIRECTORATE https://www.george.gov.za/george-doc-categories/documents/bylaws-and-regulations/protection-services/Zoning Scheme By-law,  Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for Comment until 05 June 2023 Comments and inputs can be emailed to, kmeyer@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za phoned in to 044 801 9435 or submitted in person at the George Municipality, 5th Floor, 71 York Street, George, 6530.Informal Trading By-law, Human Settlements, Planning and Development Directorate – Open for comment until 05 June 2023Comments and inputs can be emailed to, khaarhoff@george.gov.za and copied to post@george.gov.za  phoned in to 044 801 9148 or submitted in person at the George Municipality Ground Floor ,71 York Street, George ,6530

Internet Advertising Trends in 2023: Embracing User-Centric Approaches

In today’s digital age, where technology and connectivity have become an integral part of our lives, the landscape of advertising has evolved significantly. Internet advertising has experienced transformative changes, aligning with the latest standards and trends to better cater to user preferences and needs. Let’s explore the developments that have taken place, addressing some of the concerns raised in the previous article.First and foremost, the intrusive nature of internet advertising has been recognized and actively addressed by industry leaders. Advertisers now prioritize user experience, understanding that bombarding individuals with intrusive ads is counterproductive. Instead, they focus on creating engaging, non-disruptive ad formats that seamlessly integrate with online content. Native advertising, for instance, blends advertisements with the surrounding context, providing a more organic and less intrusive experience for users.Moreover, personalization has emerged as a key component of internet advertising. Advertisers leverage sophisticated algorithms and data analytics to deliver tailored ads that align with users’ interests and preferences. This approach enhances relevance and minimizes the sense of intrusion, as ads become more aligned with users’ online behaviors and choices.Transparency and accountability have also been significantly improved in the realm of internet advertising. Industry standards and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), have been implemented to protect users’ privacy and provide avenues for recourse. Users now have greater control over their data, with options to opt out of personalized advertising or file complaints if they encounter issues.In addition, user feedback and engagement play a pivotal role in shaping internet advertising practices. Advertisers actively seek feedback and opinions from their target audience, inviting them to participate in surveys, polls, and interactive ad campaigns. This collaborative approach empowers users to voice their concerns, preferences, and suggestions, fostering a more inclusive and user-centric advertising environment.Furthermore, ethical advertising practices have gained prominence. Advertisers are increasingly mindful of social responsibility, avoiding deceptive or manipulative tactics. They strive to build trust with their audience by promoting transparency, authenticity, and social causes that resonate with their target demographics.As technology continues to advance, emerging trends like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are reshaping the advertising landscape. These immersive technologies allow advertisers to create interactive and engaging experiences that captivate users, blurring the line between advertising and entertainment.To summarize, while internet advertising has had its share of challenges, it has also undergone transformative changes to address concerns and adapt to user preferences. The shift towards user-centric approaches, personalization, transparency, and ethical practices has reshaped the industry, providing users with more relevant and engaging ad experiences. As a result, the gap between intrusive advertising and user satisfaction has significantly narrowed, making internet advertising a more tolerable and even enjoyable part of the online ecosystem.To advertise here – give us a call – Herman 0828296428

Petition : Empower communities suffering under load-shedding

Empower communities who are suffering under Load Shedding and the energy crisis Rural Maintenance (Pty) Ltd (Chris Bosch) are running a petition to gather facts pertaining how communities feel about potentially having the ability to work together as a team to overcome the electricity challenges the Country faces.If there is a significant uptake, Local and Central Government will be informed. Hopefully, they will consider relaxing the regulatory framework so that communities can implement their own workable solutions in a responsible manner.The link to the petition is: https://chng.it/SkLMnGKzJjIf you agree with the rational, please circulate the petition to your address book.I for one am in support of this and request that you consider participating in the petition.Keep well

Seven Steps to Boost Your Brain Power: Enhancing Cognitive Function

In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals aspire to enhance their brain power and cognitive abilities. Whether you are a student aiming to improve your academic performance or a professional seeking to excel in your career, there are several steps you can take to boost your brain power. By incorporating the following seven practices into your routine, you can optimize your brain’s functionality and unleash its full potential.1. Engage in Regular Exercise Regular physical exercise is not only essential for maintaining physical fitness but also has a profound impact on brain health. Engaging in simple exercises like walking or jogging can trigger the release of neurochemicals known as endorphins, which promote a positive mood and enhance brain function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to reap the cognitive benefits.2. Nourish Your Brain with a Balanced Diet Proper nutrition plays a vital role in optimizing brain function. Include a variety of nutrient-rich foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Certain foods, such as fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, blueberries, turmeric, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate, are particularly beneficial for brain health. Additionally, stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day.3. Engage in Mental Stimulation Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, mental exercise is crucial for keeping the brain sharp. Challenge your brain regularly by engaging in activities that require mental effort. Read books, solve puzzles or brainteasers, learn a new language, engage in stimulating conversations, or participate in educational games. These activities help activate and strengthen neural connections, improving cognitive function and enhancing your overall thinking ability.4. Choose Brain-Boosting Games When it comes to leisure activities, opt for games that provide a cognitive workout. Avoid mindless games and instead choose those that offer mental challenges. Nowadays, numerous computer and mobile games are specifically designed to enhance brain function. Look for puzzles, strategy games, or memory-enhancing apps that stimulate various cognitive skills such as problem-solving, memory retention, and critical thinking.5. Pursue an Educational Hobby Engaging in a hobby that offers educational value can be both enjoyable and beneficial for your brain. Select a hobby that provides continuous learning opportunities and allows you to acquire new knowledge or skills. Whether it’s painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or cooking, find a hobby that stimulates your mind and helps you explore new realms of creativity. By regularly engaging in such activities, you can activate different areas of your brain and foster ongoing cognitive growth.6. Prioritize Sufficient Sleep Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and overall brain health. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night to allow your brain to recharge and rejuvenate. In addition to nighttime sleep, consider incorporating short power naps of around 10-20 minutes into your day. These brief periods of rest can provide an energy boost and improve your mental performance throughout the day.7. Practice Relaxation Techniques In today’s hectic world, it is crucial to give your brain the opportunity to unwind and alleviate stress. Engage in relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or mindfulness practices. These activities promote a state of mental calmness, reduce anxiety, and enhance focus and concentration. By incorporating regular relaxation sessions into your routine, you can optimize your brain’s health and performance.By following these seven steps, you can embark on a journey toward better brain health and improved cognitive function. Remember that consistent effort and a holistic approach are key to achieving long-lasting results. Start incorporating these practices into your daily life and enjoy the benefits of an enhanced