Special Votes for the 2024 Elections

Herman Pienaar
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Special Votes for the 2024 Elections
Article from SA Government NewsWith the General Elections coming up on Wednesday, 29 May 2024, the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has detailed how the electorate can apply for special votes.A special vote allows a registered voter, who can’t vote at their voting station on Election Day, to apply to vote on a predetermined day before Election Day.To qualify for a special vote, you must be unable to visit your local voting station on voting day because you are pregnant, infirm or have another disability that prevents you from visiting a voting station on Election Day.You may also be eligible for a special vote if for other reasons, such as work.Special votes can either be cast at home (where IEC officials visit you at your residence) or at a voting station.Special votes and home visits for this year’s general elections will take place on 27 and 28 May. The IEC says the closing date to apply for special votes is 3 May.How to applyTo begin the online application for a special vote, visit the IEC website on https://www.elections.org.za/. Then navigate to the “Voters” tab and under the tab, click on “Apply for a special vote” in the middle column.You can apply if you:
  • Are a registered voter.
  • Have a valid South African identity document (green, barcoded ID book; smartcard ID or a valid Temporary Identity Certificate).
To check that you’re registered and to find out where you’re registered, you can:
  • Check your voter registration status.SMS your ID number to 32810, or
  • Call the IEC’s contact centre on 012 622 5700.
By law, you can apply for a special vote if you:
  • Can’t travel to your voting station because you are physically infirm, disabled or pregnant, or
  • Can’t vote at your voting station on Election Day.
How to apply for a special vote at your voting stationIf you can’t vote at your voting station on Election Day, you can apply to cast a special vote at your voting station on the predetermined date only, as per the election timetable, in one of the following ways:
  • Using the IEC’s secured online application form.
  • By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS). (For special vote at a voting station only.)
  • By visiting your local IEC office (not the national or provincial offices) and submitting a MEC 35 form. Forms can only be hand-delivered (no emails or faxes accepted), but someone else can deliver your completed form on your behalf.
Make an appointment at your local IEC officeIf you can’t apply for a special vote online, you can do it in person at your local IEC office. If you want to apply for a special vote at your home, you can send a relative or spouse to apply on your behalf.You first need to make an appointment. You can do that by calling your local IEC office.After you have made an appointment, you can visit your local IEC office during the operating hours of Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.A the local IEC office, you will need to present the MEC 35 form. You can download the form online or you can request this form at the IEC office.How to check special vote application statusAfter you’ve submitted your special vote application, you can review the status of your application online via SMS or by calling the IEC call centre.Check special vote application status onlineVisit the IECs website. On the home page, click the “I want to” Tab and then click “Check the status of special vote application”.From there, you will be directed to the special vote status check. You will need to select the election you’re applying for and enter your ID number.You will then be redirected to a page that will display the status of your special vote application.Check special vote application status via IECYou can also call the IEC call centre on 0800 11 8000 and follow the prompts to get information about your special vote application status. – SAnews.gov.zahttps://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/special-votes-all-you-need-know 

GEORGE NOMINATED AS SEMI-FINALIST FOR TOWN OF THE YEAR

George Municipality Media
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GEORGE NOMINATED AS SEMI-FINALIST FOR TOWN OF THE YEAR
Issued by George MunicipalityGeorge has been named a regional semi-finalist for the prestigious Western Cape title in kykNET’s Kwêla Town of the Year competition. This exciting announcement follows an enthusiastic response from voters in the initial round, as revealed on Kwêla’s broadcast tonight at 7 pm. George Tourism is elated by this achievement and urges everyone to continue their support by casting their votes once again in this pivotal second round. Despite being technically classified as a city, George qualifies for the Town of the Year competition due to its population of less than 500,000 residents.Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager for George encouraged everyone to join her in voting for George. “As George residents, we tend to take the privilege of living in George for granted, but let’s count our blessings.  We are situated in the ‘sweet spot’ of the world-famous Garden Route, with access to all its wonders, with pristine roads and an airport on our doorstep.  Surrounded by mountains, rivers, oceans, and lakes, in forests and farmlands that provide an array of produce from milk to beer, with fruit, vegetables, and an abundance of rain. Our town is well-governed and clean, the air is crisply clean and even has a public transport service!  We have world-class shops, schools, golf courses and more offering high employment numbers and a thriving economy.  Please join me in voting for George today,” she said.The stakes are high, with the winning town set to receive a remarkable R1 million advertising contract on kykNET, providing an invaluable opportunity to promote George as a premier tourist destination both domestically and in Namibia. Every SMS vote counts, contributing to the collective effort to showcase George’s charm and appeal to a wider audience.SMS lines will be open for voting from April 14 to April 19. To nominate George, simply SMS ‘George’ to 33157. Each SMS costs R1.50, and individuals are encouraged to vote multiple times, up to a maximum of 30 votes per number.The final showdown will occur between 14 – 19 July,  with the ultimate winner being announced on 28 July during a special broadcast on Kwêla. The victorious town will not only claim the coveted title of Town of the Year but also secure a lucrative R1 million advertising contract with kykNET. Additionally, Lottoland will generously contribute a cash prize of R1 million to further invest in the town’s development.To further enhance George’s chances of success we ask all of our schools, colleges, universities, and businesses to rally behind the cause and mobilize your communities to vote between 14 – 19 April. For those interested in playing a more active role in the campaign, businesses can reach out to George Municipality’s Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw, at jshaw@george.gov.za for additional information.Witness the allure of George in this captivating video showcasing the town’s finest offerings: https://tinyurl.com/4f8wt2zcLet’s unite in support of George’s bid to become South Africa’s favourite town and secure its place as the Regional Winner en route to the final round in July!Chantèl Edwards Manager Communications & IGR Office of the Municipal Manager Office: 044 801 9160 E-mail: cedwards@george.gov.za Cellphone: 082 3502420

Don’t kill your dream: Vusi Thembekwayo’s best advice

Herman Pienaar
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Don’t kill your dream: Vusi Thembekwayo’s best advice
As an entrepreneur mindset is the great determination. Your mind must change from scarcity mindset to abundance mindset to accommodate and attract what you want. ……………………………………………………………… -Best advice for entrepreneur: formula for great business    • Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e…   please take time to watch our previous videos -Vusi Thembekwayo’s dominant 5 tips to every entrepreneur    • Vusi Thembekwayo: 5 tips for proven e…   -Vusi Thembekwayo reveals the importance of leadership    • Achieve Leadership Mastery in 2024 wi…   ………………………………………………………………. Thanks for watching, we really appreciate it! much love and respect. comment so that we can be able to provide you with content you looking for.For more from Vusi: https://www.youtube.com/@vthembekwayo

Protecting Your Finances: Beware of Financial Scams on Social Media

Herman Pienaar
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Protecting Your Finances: Beware of Financial Scams on Social Media
In an age where social media platforms have become integral parts of our daily lives, connecting us with friends, family, and the wider world, they have also become hotbeds for financial scams. These scams come in various forms, from fake investment opportunities to phishing schemes, and they prey on unsuspecting individuals who may not be aware of the risks. This article aims to shed light on the prevalent issue of financial scams on social media and provide valuable insights on how to avoid falling victim to these deceitful practices.Identifying Common Financial Scams:1. Fake Investment Opportunities: Scammers often use social media platforms to promote enticing investment opportunities that promise high returns with minimal risk. Be wary of unsolicited investment advice or opportunities that seem too good to be true. Legitimate investment opportunities are typically thoroughly researched and come from reputable sources.2. Phishing Schemes: Phishing scams involve tricking individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details. Scammers may create fake profiles, pretending to be from reputable financial institutions, and send messages or emails with links to seemingly legitimate websites. Always verify the authenticity of any communication and avoid clicking on suspicious links.3. Pump and Dump Schemes: In the realm of cryptocurrency and stock trading, scammers employ “pump and dump” schemes. They artificially inflate the value of a particular asset by spreading false information or rumors, and encouraging others to invest. Once the price peaks, scammers sell off their holdings, causing the value to plummet, and unsuspecting investors are left with significant losses.Protecting Yourself from Financial Scams:1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: Exercise caution when receiving unsolicited investment offers or financial advice on social media. Legitimate financial opportunities are typically sought out through research and recommendations from trusted sources.2. Verify Profiles and Information: Before engaging with someone on social media regarding financial matters, verify their profile and cross-check their information. Scammers often use fake profiles with stolen images and information.3. Use Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication on your social media accounts and any financial platforms you use. This adds an extra layer of security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.4. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams and deceptive tactics. Familiarize yourself with common warning signs and red flags associated with financial fraud to better protect yourself.5. Report Suspicious Activity: If you come across suspicious profiles or activities on social media, report them to the platform. Social media companies take user safety seriously and often investigate and take action against fraudulent accounts.Conclusion:As the popularity of social media continues to grow, so does the prevalence of financial scams. It’s crucial for users to be vigilant, skeptical, and proactive in protecting themselves from deceitful schemes. By staying informed, verifying information, and employing security measures, individuals can reduce the risk of falling victim to financial scams on social media and safeguard their hard-earned money. Remember, when it comes to financial matters, the adage “better safe than sorry” holds true.

Essential Safety Tips for Tourists: A Guide to Secure Travel

Herman Pienaar
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Essential Safety Tips for Tourists: A Guide to Secure Travel
Traveling to a new destination is an exciting adventure, but ensuring your safety should be a top priority. Whether you’re navigating the bustling airport, settling into your accommodation, exploring the streets, driving, or hiking, these safety tips will help you have a secure and enjoyable experience.1. At the Airport– Secure Your Belongings: – Use locks on your bags and attach name tags for easy identification. – Never allow strangers to tamper with your luggage.– Seek Information Safely: – When seeking directions, approach marked information counters only. – Avoid relying on random strangers for guidance.2. At the Hotel, Guesthouse, or Other Accommodation– Be Vigilant: – Report any suspicious, unattended luggage to the reception. – Keep your luggage locked in your room when not attended. – Utilize the safety deposit box for storing valuables.– Secure Your Room: – Always lock your room when inside. – Verify the identity of anyone knocking on your door before opening. – Hand in your keys whenever you leave.– Luggage Handling: – Only entrust your luggage to authorized staff, and ensure a receipt is issued. – Practice caution when dealing with bell staff or porters.3. On the Street– Conceal Valuables: – Avoid displaying expensive items openly. – Keep your handbag and mobile phone with you at all times. – Don’t carry large sums of money; use safer alternatives.– Stay Alert: – Keep your wallet in an inside pocket, not the rear pocket. – Ensure credit card transactions are processed in your presence. – Explore in groups, stick to well-lit streets, and plan your route in advance. – If lost, seek directions from official sources, like police or traffic officers. – Use reputable taxi services recommended by your hotel or tourism helpline.4. In Your Vehicle– Prioritize Security: – Plan your route in advance. – Keep doors locked and windows up. – Conceal valuables, and lock them in the trunk. – Park in well-lit areas at night. – Never pick up hitchhikers; prioritize your safety.– Emergency Preparedness: – Have the car rental company’s contact number readily available. – If uncertain about an area, contact a police station for advice and assistance.5. On Hiking Trails– Group Safety: – Explore trails in groups for personal safety and assistance during emergencies. – Avoid isolated areas unless accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.Useful Telephone Numbers– George Tourism: +27 44 801 9295 – South African Police Service Emergency Number: 10111 – Crime Stop (report criminal activity anonymously): 08600 10111 – Mobile phone emergency number: 112 – South African Tourism helpline: 083 123 6789By following these safety guidelines and staying vigilant, you can make the most of your travel experience while ensuring your well-being is a top priority. Safe travels!

Dogs on beaches(sand area) detrimental to Blue Flag status

George Municipality Media
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Dogs on beaches(sand area) detrimental to Blue Flag status
George Municipality wishes to inform all dog owners that in order to adhere to the Blue Flag international standards at all of our beaches, it is imperative to enforce strict rules of NO DOGS ON BEACHES (SAND AREAS) that is in line with the Municipality’s By-law, Keeping of dogs, cats and animals.Wilderness Beach, Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay have full Blue Flag status and Leeintjiesklip has Pilot status for the 2023 festive season. Blue Flag is an international coastal management programme that accredits beaches that meet standards of excellence in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and information as well as safety and services. In South Africa the programme is implemented by the Wildlife Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA). The Blue Flag season runs from 1 December 2023 to 31 January 2024.Dog excrement can contaminate the water and jeopardise the Blue Flag status of our beaches – even if the dog poop is picked up. Dog owners are therefore warned to keep dogs on a leash and off the sandy areas at the beaches. Law Enforcement officers will not hesitate to act against those that do not adhere to the By-law.Further to this By-Law no dog or other animal may be in any public street or public space (any open public space the public has access to which falls under the George Municipal jurisdiction for example beachfronts, parks, sport fields and sidewalks) except on a leash and under control. This is unless the animal is in an area designated by the George Municipality as a free-running area.A person is not allowed to walk a dog other than a guide dog, ON A BEACHFRONT, a public street, public place, without carrying enough plastic or paper bags or wrappers, to place the excrement into, in the event of the dog defecating. Please note that dogs are allowed on the sidewalk areas, (tarred, brick-paved etc.) of beachfronts, if these conditions are adhered to.The beach areas under the control of the George Municipality include Herold’s Bay, Gwaiing River Mouth Beach, Victoria Bay and the Leentjiesklip and Wildnerness beach areas up until the NSRI (Salina’s Restaurant). The area to the left of Salina’s Restaurant (facing the sea) falls under Sanparks. The attached map indicates the areas on Wilderness Beach where dogs MAY be walked on the beach. The George Municipal By-Law may differ from that of other municipalities. Please humanely muzzle and or more can and will be imposed.Animal owners leaving on vacation should please ensure that they have their animals cared for by a reliable person or at an animal boarding facility such as kennels or catteries. We ask dog owners to familiarise themselves with a map of Sanparks attached, to see where dogs are allowed on beaches and where not.Click here for more https://tinyurl.com/y35497k7 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities Celebrated Through Nature Exploration

George Municipality Media
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International Day of Persons with Disabilities Celebrated Through Nature Exploration
Issued by George Municipality, 13 December 2023, For Immediate ReleaseIn commemoration of the International Day for Persons Living with Disabilities on Sunday, 3 December 2023, the George Municipality’s Gender and Disability Desk joined hands with the Association of People with Disability (APD) George and Garden Route National Park to facilitate a day of nature exploration and empowerment.A group of 20 young adults living with disabilities was taken on a meaningful journey into the forest to take a walk to the Big Tree, where they were educated about nature. Those who were able also participated in 1 kilometre walk into the forest. Nature has such a positive effect on the human body just think of the calming effect the fresh air had on this group. After the visit to the forest, we went to San Parks to go canoeing with the group, some of them were quite scared of the river, but we managed to take a few for canoeing. Through this program persons with a disability could showcase that they can do anything an able-bodied person can do.This initiative not only provided a day of enjoyment and exploration but also served as a platform for challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. By showcasing the capabilities of persons with disabilities, the event aimed to break down barriers and inspire a more inclusive community.

Drop-off/pick-up points for private and public transport vehicles on beaches on 1 and 2 January 2024

Herman Pienaar
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Drop-off/pick-up points for private and public transport vehicles on beaches on 1 and 2 January 2024
Issued by George Municipality, 29 December 2022To minimise traffic congestion, the George Municipality has made alternative arrangements for the drop-off and pick-up of large groups of passengers by public transport vehicles (taxis and buses) and/or private vehicles.George traffic officers and point service officers will be in place to ensure the smooth flow of traffic as far as possible. Traffic controllers will assist with general parking as well as at the designated drop-and-go/pick-up areas at all beaches. Clear directions are in place. These arrangements are made for the safety of all public transport users and pedestrians.VICTORIA BAY: 1 and 2 January 2023: 07:00 – 18:00 Pick-up: All public transport vehicles (taxis and buses): At the upper parking area at stop sign on the left where you enter Victoria Bay. Private vehicles: Drop-and-go circle at the boom, until officials indicate otherwise. Drop-off: Drop-and-go circle at the boom, until officials indicate otherwise.HEROLDS BAY: 1 and 2 January 2023: 06:00 – 18:00 Drop-and-go/pick-up points at the caravan food stalls and on the left side of the public toilet facilities. No public transport vehicles, including buses and taxis, may park at the main parking area overlooking the sea. Motorists are also allowed to park on the sides of the R404 road, provided they are completely off the road and do not create any obstruction.WILDERNESS BEACH: 1 and 2 January 2023: 07:00 – 18:00 All public transport vehicles, (taxis and buses): Wilderness common drop-off point and parking area ONLY private vehicles, the elderly and persons with disabilities: Salina’s drop-and-go point. Map key: Yellow arrows indicate parking areas. Purple arrows indicate beach access. Red stars indicate location of lifeguards. Red triangle indicates that area/access is closed. Green arrow indicates drop-and-go point for public, elderly people, and persons with disabilities. Blue arrow indicates public transport drop-off/pick-up point (taxis and buses).

Two more awards for the GRDM Communications Team

Herman Pienaar
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Two more awards for the GRDM Communications Team
The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Communication Team has won two of the South African Local Government Association’s (SALGA) National Communicators Forum Awards. The one for the “Most Innovative Communications Team” and the second for the “Most Proactive and Responsive Communication Team” at a district municipal level. Previously, the GRDM Communicators also won the SALGA “Most Updated Social Media Platforms” award. The SALGA award ceremony took place in Durban at the ICC on 11 December 2023. The team was up against stiff competition with 43 other district municipalities across South Africa participating.GRDM’s team consists of five Communicators: Herman Pieters (Communication Mgr.), Marillia Veldkornet (Snr. Communicator), Marlene Nqumse (Snr. Communicator), Vuyolwethu Notyeke (Multimedia Communicator) and Xola Makinana (Intern). Three members, Herman, Marlene and Marillia, have already been working together for over 13 years.

A reminder that no alcohol allowed at beaches and public areas

Herman Pienaar
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A reminder that no alcohol allowed at beaches and public areas
Issued by George Municipality.The fantastic weather has meant that our festive season has most certainly started already this year, and George Law Enforcement officials and beach monitors had their hands full over the weekend with the confiscation of alcohol at the various beaches as well as the removal of intoxicated individuals who were disturbing the peace for other beachgoers. Beachgoers attempted to smuggle in bottles of alcohol as well as premixed in cooldrink bottles. The municipality has a NO ALCOHOL policy applicable to Beaches and other Public areas to ensure safe beaches for everyone.The control, searching of vehicles and bags access at municipal beaches is implemented under “The access to public premises and access of vehicles Act (53 1985)”. Members of the Public are warned that prohibited substances, weapons, alcohol, fireworks etc. will be confiscated and that fines can be issued. All confiscated items or goods will be handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for disposal. George Municipality encourages all beachgoers to co-operate with our officials to ensure their visit to the beach is a safe and enjoyable experience. Neighbourhood Watch, Community Police Forums, George and Provincial Traffic Services, SANPARKS, National Sea Rescue Institute, Private Security Companies, the South African Police Service (SAPD) including Business Owners also assist the Municipality to ensure a safe festival season.The beach areas under the control of the George Municipality include Wilderness Main Beach, Wilderness Lagoon, Wilderness Steps, Wilderness Lientjiesklip, Victoria Bay Beach, Gwaing River Mouth Beach and Day Camp and Herold’s Bay Beach and Tidal pool.For any further information on complaints please contact the Law Enforcement office on 044 801 6350 (07h45 – 16h30) or 044 801 6300 (A/h Assistance team only for bylaw-related offences and emergencies). The public can also send e-mails to sprins@george.gov.za with complaints of related matters. Law Enforcement Office – 25B Cathedral Street.
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