Johannesburg Central Sector Police arrested a 28-year-old suspect for attempted car hi-jacking at Fordsburg on March 18, 2014 at 1pm. It is alleged that two suspects attempted to hi-jack a 44-year-old female.

The victim was driving a grey Mercedes Benz along Dolly Rathebe Street. She stopped at the red traffic light and two suspects approached her; one of them opened a passenger door and got inside the vehicle.

She was instructed to drive or she will be shot; she screamed for help and suspects ran away. Police busy with their routine crime prevention duties saw the suspects running away and gave chase; one suspect was apprehended at Oriental Plaza. His accomplice is still at large and police investigations are continuing.

The suspect is charged with attempted car hi-jacking and he will appear soon in Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court.

Media Statement from the National Media Centre Corporate Communication South African Police Service

Continuous efforts by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, to identify and dismantle syndicates in the North West, have again yielded positive results. Yesterday five illicit cigarette ring leaders, Ngoie Mutchibe, Aisha Mbemba, Farouk Rahman, Atiken Rinomhota, and Jaqoob Muhammad, appeared in the Lichtenburg Magistrates’ Court on charges of money laundering. They were released on R100 000,00 bail each.

The two Congolese nationals, Mutchibe and Mbemba, were arrested on Friday March 14, 2014 in Bedfordview, Johannesburg. R1 million and two luxury vehicles were seized as these are suspected to be the proceeds of the illicit activities they had allegedly been involved in.

Other syndicate members – Rahman, Rinomhota and Muhammad, were arrested with Serajul Huda and Sharik Mahommed nearly two weeks ago, and were remanded in custody while Huda and Mahommed were released on R3 000,00 and R1 000,00 bail respectively at their first appearance in the same court. Thirty-four boxes of illicit cigarettes, R170 000,00 in cash, three laptops and 22 cell phones were seized.

The suspects are accused of leading a syndicate that smuggled illicit cigarettes between South Africa and Botswana.

The same team dismantled three syndicates two weeks ago in the Mahikeng and Rustenburg areas. The syndicates were involved in drugs, theft of motor vehicles and fraud. Drugs with a value of R40 million, were seized.

“It is a fact that thousands of illicit cigarettes are sold in South Africa every day. We are unwavering in our efforts to hit the ring leaders so that no one will be funding these activities. Illicit cigarettes are not just harmful to the economy, but to smokers as well,” said the Head of the Hawks in the North West, Major General Ntebo Mabula.

University of Johannesburg sport science manager and hockey coach Robin van Ginkel played a vital role in guiding the Delhi Waveriders to the Hockey India League (HIL) title.

The recently completed HIL is based on cricket’s hugely successful Indian Premier League (IPL).

“Hockey players around the world are auctioned off to Indian teams to compete against each other on an international platform,” said Van Ginkel, who was part of the conditioning staff.

“Six teams compete in the competition, each from a different region in India with their own individuality.” Van Ginkel was part of the Delhi Waveriders, which was based in New Delhi and owned by the Wave Group.

“The league was structured with all teams playing five home games and five away games in a round-robin format. Once pools had concluded, a semi-final and final were played in Ranchi.

“The final was between the Jaypee Punjab Warriors and us.” After finishing on three goals apiece in a competitive final, the Delhi Waveriders won the title in a shootout.

Van Ginkel’s main responsibility was to monitor player recovery and conditioning. “The games were monitored live with the use of the Zephyr heart rate system.”

With this system, he could monitor player recovery and ensure that the most suitable player took to the field at exactly the right moment and play with optimum intensity throughout the competition.

“The experience in India was life-changing. I was privileged to work among the world’s top hockey coaches and players.

“The travelling was a challenge for many of the teams but worth the victory in the end.”

Although his involvement in the HIL was a feather in his cap, it also gave him knowledge and new skills he could plough back into UJ Sport.

“These international experiences increase knowledge which is brought back to the university and shared to assist sport science development and overall growth of our codes.”

Among other roles, Van Ginkel coaches the university’s women’s team and is involved with the national men’s outfit. He will be an integral part of UJ’s preparations for the upcoming Varsity Hockey tournament in May.

Three MyJoburg readers can win double tickets to Queen at the Ballet at the Joburg Theatre on Friday March 28, 2014 at 8pm.

Three winners will be randomly selected and contacted on Wednesday March 26, 2014.

To enter: e-mail your full name and surname and phone number to competitions@myjoburg.com with the subject header: Queen at the Ballet

Then Like MyJoburg on facebook and share this competition by tweeting.

Follow @MyJoburgNews

QUEEN AT THE BALLET – ready to rock Joburg!

After two sold out seasons in Cape Town in 2012, receiving rave reviews from public and media alike, Sean Bovim’s long awaited Queen at the Ballet will soon be on its way to Johannesburg for a limited season at the Joburg Theatre from 26^th March – 13 April 2014.

Queen at the Ballet uses the athleticism of rock ballet en-pointe in a high impact production that will entertain people of all ages.

The show is packed with high artistic standards, innovative & original choreography, and powerful performances from the strong cast of dancers.

Queen at the Ballet captures the story of the great pretender, Freddie Mercury, told through the medium of dance. Set to over 20 of his greatest hits (including ‘Who wants to live forever’, ‘Another one bites the dust’, ‘Barcelona’ and many more), viewers are taken on a journey through the fascinating life of one of the world’s greatest singers. The audience can expect to see tender pas de deux interspersed with exciting rocking group numbers performed by over 20 of South Africa’s top dancing talents.

Michael Hankinson’s exquisite, recorded orchestral arrangements of Queen’s music are further enhanced by the live gymnastic vocals of Johannesburg’s renowned rocker Cito (WONDERboom & Jesus Christ Superstar fame), Daniel Fisher (Fiddler on the Roof) and Angela Kilian (Sunset Boulevard & Evita) makes a special guest appearance singing “Barcelona” with Cito.
Bovim’s production offers a powerful fusion of fashion and dance, brought to life through collaborations with internationally recognized South African designers Malcolm Klûk & CGDT, Craig Port, Gavin Rajah and Ian West.

Says Bovim; “For years I’ve wanted to bring my rock ballet, Queen at the Ballet, to the Joburg Theatre. I have been asked over and over again when the show is coming to Jozi, and I’m happy to share the exciting news that the wait is almost over!”

Bovim continues, “It is with great pride that Bovim Ballet will showcase some of the greatest dance talent that South Africa has to offer. The strong cast is led by Henk Opperman (winner of Dans!Dans!Dans!) who passionately portrays the role of Freddie Mercury. We are so proud to be joined by a favourite of Jozi audiences; the enigmatic and super-talented Cito and as an added bonus, audiences can look forward to a special guest appearance from Angela Kilian. We can’t wait for March to arrive!”

Performances are from 26^th March – 13 April 2014 at The Mandela at Joburg Theatre.

Shows run from Wednesdays to Saturdays 8pm and Sundays at 3pm.

Tickets range from R100 – R280 and are on sale by visiting www.joburgtheatre.com, or by calling the theatre’s direct ticketing line on 0861 670 670.

Discounted rates for scholars, students, pensioners and groups of ten or more are available by calling the theatre’s ticketing office on (011) 877 6853 or (011) 877 6917.

Queen At The Ballet runs 1 hour 45 minutes including a 20-minute interval with no age restriction but parental guidance is advised.

For more information on Bovim Ballet, visit www.bovimballet.com

The Johannesburg season of Queen at the Ballet is brought to you by Bovim Ballet in association with The CoLab Network , with grateful thanks to our accommodation partner Protea Hotel Parktonian All Suite and our airline partner British Airways (operated by Comair).

Following the recent heavy rainfall which has left Johannesburg roads in a terrible condition, The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has committed to working 24/7 a week to repair the 12,703 potholes and 37,545 patchings on the city’s roads and some of the 2,114 traffic lights that have been damaged by rain.

Last year, R1.8bn was set aside to upgrade road infrastructure in Johannesburg, with a focus on the M1 and M2 highways and major arteries serving commercial hubs such as Sandton and Rosebank.

“Where roads were fundamentally poorly constructed, the potholes will keep returning, JRA is going to be tough on contractors that did shoddy work”, said JRA’s MD Skhumbuzo Macozoma.

Mr Macozoma said about R23m would be needed to repair potholes and about 887 storm water drains. Repairs and rehabilitation of bridges and culverts would cost about R37m, he said. Nine bridges and culverts had been prioritised in Northriding, Bryanston, Douglasdale, Ivory Park and Sandton.

JRA’s regional operations head Hendrik van Tonder, said work has already started on some of the roads and completion will be determined by the weather conditions.

Mr Macozoma apologises for any inconvenience caused during this construction phase.

Christiaan Mangena, a police ballistics expert testified on Wednesday at Oscar Pistorius’ murder trial that Reeva Steenkamp was standing in the toilet cubicle, facing the closed door when the first shot was fired hitting her right hip shattering her hip bone.

Mangena said that he is of the opinion that after this wound was inflicted, Steenkamp dropped immediately falling onto a magazine rack and crossed her arms over her head to protect herself. The second bullet missed Steenkamp and ricocheted off the wall and broke into fragments, bruising her back.

The third and fourth bullets hit her right arm and head she then collapsed with her head landing on the toilet seat. Mangena, concluded that one of the final two bullets fired by Pistorius went through Steenkamp’s left hand, which she held over her head, before it penetrated her skull. He said he could not determine the order of the last two shots. The bullet that struck her skull broke into two fragments; one exited her head and struck the wall behind her.

Pistorius, 27, is charged with premeditated murder and faces 25 years to life in prison if convicted. He says he shot Steenkamp, 29, by mistake through a locked door in his bathroom thinking she was an intruder.

But prosecutors charge he killed her after a loud argument that caused her to flee and hide in the toilet area. Neighbors have testified to hearing loud screaming before and during the shots being fired.

The court heard that Pistorius fired from a distance of at least 60 centimeters and no further than 3 meters away, where there was a wall behind him, Mangena said. He described the impact of the hollow point bullets in Pistorius’ gun, which were designed to cause maximum damage to an intended target.

“It hits the target, it opens up, it creates six talons, and these talons are sharp,” Mangena said. “It cuts through the organs of a human being.”

The defense said it would challenge Mangena’s testimony regarding the sequence of the shots.

Also Wednesday, the chief prosecutor said he planned to wrap up his case early next week after calling four or five more witnesses. Judge Thokozile Masipa granted Nel’s request to adjourn the trial until Monday March 24, 2014 so that Nel has time to consult his last witnesses. No court session is scheduled on Friday, which is a national holiday in South Africa.

“We foresee that we’ll call four or five more witnesses and that we’ll be able to close our case early next week,” added Nel.

On March 7, 2014 The Laser Beautique celebrated the launch of their 6^th laser clinic in Gauteng at The Zone Rosebank. Inspiration and education is the goal that The Laser Beautique will strive to achieve this year and this launch was going to be exactly that, with live demonstrations and talks by experts in their field.

The morning started at 6.30am with AV technicians setting up TV screens, speakers, mics etc. to ensure all guests could hear and see the guest speakers and live demonstrations taking place by their highly qualified therapists. Setup flowed without any hassles and the scene was set for the invited guests to arrive.

Branded blue velvet cupcakes arrived freshly baked from Chef Knows Best, savoury health platters from Be Leaf enticed from the breakfast table, chilled champagne was served and could be added to orange juice for the more conservative and of course there was tea, coffee and even espresso for those who needed a pick me up from all the rainy weather and traffic! Name tags were laid out, the lucky draw jar was ready for guest’s business cards and goody bags were packed and ready to delight guests on departure.

Starting proceedings at 10:15 was the owner and founder of The Laser Beautique, Tzvia Hermann who welcomed guests and gave an introduction on The Laser Beautique. Tzvia was followed by cum laude Wits graduate Dr Talia Notelovitz who gave an educational talk and demonstration of Botox and Fillers on model Chana Rudy. Next on the agenda to excite guests was a near-infrared sports massage demonstration performed by Rochelle Levy, training manager for The Laser Beautique. To end off the morning of celebration and education founder and owner of RégimA International Skin Treatments Jacqui Faucitt gave a fascinating talk whilst passing around RégimA products for the audience to test and experience for themselves.

Kasia Wojciechowska Moolman (The Laser Beautique Woodlands), Tzvia
Hermann (Founder and owner of The Laser Beautique), Mandie Goosen (The Laser
Beautique Rosebank) , Kerry Peterkin (The Laser Beautique Northcliff) and
Rochelle Levy (Head trainer and lead therapist of The Laser Beautique)

The Laser Beautique has built a reputation of being the number ONE clinic in South Africa that offers the latest in non-invasive beauty and aesthetic treatments. From state of the art pain-free laser hair removal, to pain-free laser lipolysis, laser face lifting, laser skin tightening, laser skin rejuvenation as well as two of their newest laser treatments near infrared for muscular or sport injury and radio frequency for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). The Laser Beautique’s focus is on products that are true to their labels, product innovation, commitment to technological advances and the flexibility to respond quickly to our client’s needs.

If it’s on offer at The Laser Beautique, we have tried, tested and it works!

Rochelle Levy (Training manager for The Laser Beautique) and model
Karen Avnit (Distributer for RégimA)

Kasia Wojciechowska Moolman (The Laser Beautique Woodlands), Tzvia
Hermann (Founder and owner of The Laser Beautique), Jacqui Faucitt (founder
and owner of RégimA International Skin Treatments), Karen Avnit (Distributer
for RégimA), Rochelle Levy (Training manager for The Laser Beautique) and Dr
Talia Notelovitz (cum laude Wits)

20 March marks World Day of Theatre for Children, with thousands of children from around the globe being encouraged to experience the thrill of theatrical performances through a worldwide campaign initiated by ASSITEJ, the International Association of Theatres for Children and Young People.

As people from all walks of life are urged to ‘take a child to the theatre so they can see, hear, feel, think and imagine’, Tsogo Sun’s Arts Academy is doing just that. The learners in the programme will, for the first time in 2014, be actively participating in the World Day of Theatre for Children.

Currently in its second year, Tsogo Sun’s Arts Academy forms part of the extra-curricular activities of 12 schools in the Diepsloot and Mayfair communities, teaching 480 students the basics of drama, dance, vocal training and voice projection, together with a structured life skills course that covers a broad spectrum of topics to empower the youngsters to make sound choices throughout their lives.

As part of a year-long schedule showcasing the many and varied facets of the arts, the children will spend the week of 17 to 21 March engaged in an intense series of workshops and theatre outings, followed by an integrated curriculum, which is designed to educate and nurture these young learners’ minds around theatre and the production process while fostering life skills.

During this week, the arts students will attend the annual Naledi Arts Awards, workshops on what theatre is, theatre-themed sports games, theatre etiquette, the value of storyboards and storytelling, and group discussions on children’s rights and responsibilities. Throughout the year students will also experience backstage tours and enjoy a number of performances at The Lyric at Gold Reef City and The Teatro at Montecasino, as well as have the opportunity to meet the performers of the various productions. The year will culminate in community concerts produced by the students themselves where they will showcase their hard work, talent and skills developed over the year.

“Tsogo Sun’s focus on entertainment and theatre meant forming an Arts Academy for young people was a natural fit. The Arts Academy allows us to expose young school-goers to the world of arts, to identify the most talented young artists early on and to nurture their talent. The programme is aligned to government priorities to reintroduce extra-curricular activities back into schools and Tsogo Sun has worked closely with the Gauteng Department of Education in identifying schools and developing the programme,” explains Vusi Dlamini, Tsogo Sun’s Group HR Director of Tsogo Sun.

ASSITEJ was established in 1965, as a global alliance linking thousands of theatres, organisations and individuals working in the field of theatre for children and young people. The initiative highlights World Day of Theatre for Children as a conduit to advocate quality children’s theatre, educate youth, cultivate youth’s access to quality theatre and encourage an appreciation of theatre. “On March 20th, the World Day for Theatre for Children and Young People, ASSITEJ invites everyone to participate in our ongoing “Take a Child to the Theatre Today” campaign. YOU can make a difference to the children and young people with whom you come into contact. Give them a space to dream, bring them to the theatre or take the theatre to them, but make that magical contact happen!” says ASSITEJ International President Yvette Hradie.

For further information go to www.tsogosun.com. You can also join Tsogo Sun on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TsogoSun or follow @TsogoSun on Twitter.

The city of Jo’burg has a reputation for being a great ‘Jol’ but one quickly grows tired of going to the same places and seeing the same faces – a problem Jol Jozi was designed to resolve.

Jol Jozi is a Party-Bus, full-day, event that transports up to 180 spirited individuals to three of the hottest party venues in the North-West suburbs of Johannesburg before heading to a secret location to enjoy a proudly South African braai.

Party goers will depart from and be returned to The Colony Arms and there will be no shortage of complementary drinks and drinking games on the Party Bus – where the real partying happens – however guests are encouraged to bring a few rand if they would like to sample the infamous shots and cocktails at the various stops.

In the contagious good spirit of giving back, proceeds from this Jol Jozi event will go towards Johannesburg Mercy Center.

EVENT DETAILS

Date               29 March 2014
Time                10:30 am – 21:30
Place              The Colony Arms, 345 Jan Smuts Avenue
Ticket Costs   R325

SCHEDULE

10:30               Registration and welcoming drinks and shots @ Colony Arms
11:30               Bus departs
12:30               Arrival at 1st Stop
13:45               Arrival at Second stop
14:25               Arrival at 3rd stop
15:00               Departure for mystery stop
15:45               Arrival at mystery stop
17:00               Spit braai
17:00 – 21:00   DJ sets
21:00               Depart for colony arms
21:30               Arrival at Colony. With tons of drinks specials

Tickets are available at www.joljozi.co.za by credit card purchase or EFT.
*limited amount of tickets available*

For further information please contact sales@joljozi.co.za

Follow @joljozi

Gareth Patterson’s autobiography My Lion’s Heart will be published in Africa by Tracey McDonald Publishers. Patterson is undoubtedly one of the world’s best known lion men, and his story is a most moving account – beguiling, inspirational and emotive. Whilst Patterson has written many books already, My Lion’s Heart covers new ground and is a highly personal look back at his forty years of his life amongst the lions and his fight to save them from extinction.

Patterson says: “My Lion’s Heart is my tenth book, and is probably the most important book I have written. It tells my life story, a story of tears and smiles, about my attempts to greater protect the iconic animal symbol of this continent, the African lion. I am absolutely delighted that Tracey McDonald Publishers will be publishing My Lion’s Heart.”

Tracey McDonald, Publisher, says: “To publish a book by Gareth Patterson, a man who has tirelessly dedicated his life to protecting Africa’s wildlife, is a wonderful honour. We are a young publishing house and having a writer of Gareth’s great talent has created much excitement here that we are thrilled to share.”

Sonia Land from Sheil Land Associates brokered the deal. Land says: “I’m absolutely delighted that Gareth is ‘reunited’ with the editor in Tracey McDonald Publishers that he has worked with in the past, for this most personal and intimate autobiography. He is a truly remarkable man who unwaveringly devotes his life, amidst threats to his own, to saving the endangered wildlife.

His story brings both tears of anguish and joy as it speaks not only for himself but also for those animals he so loves. When reading the story of his life, you will feel that there is something very magical in their relationship!”

Patterson’s other books include Cry for the Lions (1989), Where the Lion Walked (1991), The Lions’ Legacy (1991), Last of the Free (1994), With My Soul Amongst Lions (1995), Dying to be Free (1998), Making a Killing (2000), To Walk with Lions (2001) and The Secret Elephants (2010). For more information about Gareth Patterson visit his website – www.garethpatterson.com.

My Lion’s Heart is scheduled for publication in October 2014.

A man was shot in in an armed robbery in Boksburg this morning Thursday March 20, 2014.

At around 7.15am  Netcare 911 paramedics responded to the incident on North Rand Road in Boksburg.

Upon their arrival on scene they found that a man, believed to be in his forties, is in a critical condition with a gunshot wound to the head.

“The Netcare1 helicopter was activated to airlift the critically injured man to hospital for the urgent medical care that he required”, said Santi Steinmann of Netcare 911.

Exact detail to the cause of the incident and preceding events will remain the subject of a police investigation.

Netcare 911 paramedics and the Fire Department responded to a building fire on Fuchs Street in Alrode Alberton this morning.

“When paramedics arrived on scene they found a man in a critical condition after sustaining severe burn wounds”, said Santi Steinmann of Netcare 911.

The Netcare1 helicopter was activated to airlift the man to hospital for the urgent medical care that he required.

Exact detail to the cause of the fire incident and preceding event are unknown and will be the subject of an investigation.

Step on to the Mystery Ghost Bus and experience a night of fun, interesting facts and possibly a cold shiver here and there. Get to experience a whole new side of Joburg as you hear the haunted stories of well-known Joburg venues.

We got to experience the Joburg Mystery Ghost Bus Tour last month; we met at the Pound & Penny Pub at Sunnyside Park Hotel and had a meal before the tour began, then everyone gathered at the entrance and learned about the history of the paranormal activity at the sun dial opposite the hotel’s main entrance’s stairs.

Then it was time for the adventure to begin, on route to the Devonshire Hotel, we drove past the Old Transvaal Children’s Memorial Hospital, Women’s Prison, The “Old Fort”, Statue of Godzilla and Queen Victoria Hospital, while passing each we heard about the haunted encounters people have experienced and some of the known spirits, one such is the infamous Daisy de Melker who holds the title of being the first serial killer to ever be convicted in South Africa.

In the 1920s, Daisy quietly killed off two husbands and a son, supposedly for their money. Her favoured method for murder was to poison her victims with either arsenic or strychnine – sending them to an agonising death. She was finally discovered and convicted and hanged in 1932 amidst much media attention.

Her home in Club Street in Turffontein is still standing and sometimes Daisy can still be seen there, peering out of the upstairs window. It is assumed that she is watching for one of her husbands to return home so that she can set her ruthless plot in motion. Many people passing by have noticed the curtain moving and a ghostly looking hand appearing at around six o’clock in the evening…

Once we arrived at the Devonshire Hotel we enjoyed a drink in the pub, then we went to the Dark Haunted Room…

Back on the bus we drove past the Kensington Sanatorium, Poltergeist House on Roberts Avenue, Jeppe Boys High School and again heard about the haunted sightings and happenings. We arrived at the Kensington Castle; one of the city’s most impressive castles in Kensington. Constructed in 1911, it has 10 rooms on four levels and is perched on the hill opposite Langermann’s Kop, in Highland Road.

There we heard the story of Englishman Samuel Scott Wilson who built it for his wife Kate MacKirdie, who agreed to marry him on condition that he build her a castle.

It is believed that the castle was modelled on the Rothsay castle in Scotland, with help from Herbert Baker’s architectural firm. Its walls are one metre thick, with battlements and two walk-on roofs, and a ship’s cannon in the garden.

When we got on the bus again we heard a dramatic recording, classic old radio style of “Spook Wagon of the Spokeveld”

Our next stop was the Troyeville Hotel where we were able to order refreshments and heard about the Ducktail Gang ghost, you may just feel an icy presence as you enter the building

We took a drive to the Braamfontein Cemetery whilst listening to EVP recordings. At the cemetery everyone got to experience using Dowsing Rods followed by a walk to some of the graves where we heard the stories of people who have long since passed away but are still here in spirit.

After a night full of adventure and gaining knowledge of Joburg’s haunted spots it was time to return to the starting pub.

I would definitely recommend this tour; it’s a great night out with many stops and experiences.

About the Tours

R 299 per person (excluding Meals & Drinks). 15 Years & Up. Duration: 5 Hours.

Venues, stories & routes change all the time (especially for our repeat visitors).

Johannesburg Central Police arrested a 27-year-old suspect for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition at corner King George and Klein Street on March 25, 2014 at 4pm.

Police were conducting routine crime prevention duties when they saw a suspicious male. They stopped and searched him; recovered a 9mm with a serial number and fourteen live rounds.

Further investigations revealed that the firearm belongs to a 56-year-old male and it was reported stolen at Westonaria Police Station October 2013. The suspect is detained at Johannesburg Central cells facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He is appearing today in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court.

Rubber Duc, South Africa’s hottest new trio, has launched the anticipated debut single ‘Ain’t Nobody Got Time For That’, an up beat track with strong acoustic guitars, a kick drum, powerful vocals and a haunting saxophone woven throughout the production.

Inspired by the Parody Factory’s viral YouTube video of Sweet Brown’s ‘Ain’t Nobody Got Time for That’, the song is a social commentary with a satirical musical look at living in South Africa today.  In true Rubber Duc style, it has a quirky and humorous “quack” at current issues- all the stuff we simply don’t have time for!

The music video was shot outside FNB Stadium in Soweto and on a pedestrian bridge over the N1 by Kyle White and features the “Ducs” – Nick Jordaan (lead vocals, high hat and guitar), Brendan Campbell (backing vocals, kick drum and lead guitar) and Sheldon Sham (saxophone). Also making an appearance is the ducking sign language interpreter, comedian Robby Collins. The single was produced by Brendan Campbell and Nick Jordaan and is available as a free download here.

Follow Rubber Duc on Twitter @RubberDucMusic.

About Rubber Duc

The Rubber Duc style is fun, quirky and humorous. But don’t let their tongue-in-cheek flavour fool you – these are a seriously talented trio of young musicians!  Brendan Campbell covers lead guitar, kick drum and backing vocals, Sheldon Sham handles sax and Nick Jordaan manages the rest: vocals, guitar, high hat and tambourine!

Rubber Duc brings something fresh and unique to the South African music scene – the melodies are catchy and upbeat and the lyrics are nostalgic, evocative and clever!  Whether performing original material,“ducking up” covers, or poking fun at the world around us, their live performances are a guaranteed quacking good time!

How did it all start?

Rubber Duc was hatched in late October 2013 when Brendan Campbell and Nick Jordaan were asked to put together an acoustic set for a friend of theirs in desperate need of a “cover” band.  From the start, they did things a little differently. With the kick drum, high-hat, tambourine and two guitars they created a sound that immediately stood out.  So much so that that first, virtually impromptu performance, lead to the duo being asked to perform the “ON THE HILL – MO-ROCK 2013” festival in late November.

Realising that they needed to spread the word, Nick & Brendan recorded a cover of the 1975’s hit single “Chocolate”, shot a music video (directed by Kyle White), and released it on YouTube a week before the show. The feedback was incredible, and the video was shared on various social media platforms.

During the same week, they felt the need to add another fledgling to the nest, and saxophonist Sheldon Sham became the third member of Rubber Duc!  The band has since performed live in and around Johannesburg and has built an enthusiastic fan base.

Why ‘Rubber Duc’?

Before the band was formed, Brendan and Nick had a ridiculous idea to attempt to be DJ’s in duck suits. (Don’t ask!)  So when that very first acoustic set came along they felt that “Rubber Duc” suited their sound perfectly.

What’s next?

In short: More music, more original creations, more performances and much more fun! Rubber Duc is constantly working on new songs as well as their fresh take on covers.  They are currently developing an album to be released later this year.

The ducks believe that music provides a platform to bring people together, to change the world, even if just for a moment…

In their own words: “When people sing your music back to you, whether it is one person or a thousand, the point is that the message has touched someone in one way or another.”

With a great team backing them, Rubber Duc is set to make waves in the music industry pond with their inimitable style and positive outlook! Watch this space Rubber Duckers!

Song Lyrics

Ain’t Nobody Got Time for That

V1

Stop, you’re making a sound. Don’t think of writing it down.

If the word gets out you’re gonna go to jail.

We’ve got things to say. Don’t take our words away.

Transparency, it’s our right to see your games.

You’ve got aeroplanes, blue light brigades for a family name.

Bring the air force in there’s gonna be a fire.

We wana know who paid who, who passed the message through?

Jumbo jets, friends with benefits, sing with me this melody…

CHORUS

Ain’t nobody got time for that

V2

When driving to work takes its toll. Spend your pay check driving home.

Please JZ up my salary for bribes.

Two days drilling holes, backstage you little moles.

Justin B ain’t as rich as me, everyone at FNB sing…

CHORUS

BRIDGE

Rewind to the times that were violent, how we stood and fought through the silence.

Consumption, corruption confined in a nation we fought to survive in.

How can we survive when we pay more for mileage, for mansions on coastlines that boast our retirement?

So what’s next? Does Rubber Duc have to put it in context?

CHORUS

Release Details

Arguably one of South Africa’s best-loved bands, Watershed, is back in 2014 with a brand new single, ‘Don’t Give Up’. The first single to be released from the band’s forthcoming album, will be the 5^thsince Craig Hinds started Watershed back in 2000.

‘Don’t Give Up’ is the simple but powerful message. Hanging in, despite the ups and downs life throws. There is always ‘one more mile to cover, one more fire to fight’, but digging deep means, that on the other side things will look brighter and have more worth as a result of the hard times endured. The song is backed by elements of a gospel choir, adding further inspiration to the already powerful message in the lyrics.

The single was produced by JB Arthur and Craig Hinds, who has maintained his position as the band’s front man and pianist for the last 14 years. The other band members are Howie Combrink on drums, Gideon Botes on guitars and James Sunney on bass.

‘Don’t Give Up’ is available on all digital platforms. Follow Watershed on Twitter – @WatershedMusic. For more information on the band, their music and forthcoming gigs, go to Facebook

Big Concerts confirmed today that smash hit American rock band The Fray have confirmed 2 South African tour dates performing live in Johannesburg on 19^th September 2014 at the Coca-Cola Dome and 20^th September 2014 at the Grand Arena, GrandWest Cape Town. Presented by 94.7 Highveld Stereo and M-Net.

Tickets go on sale for Johannesburg and Cape Town on Friday 28^th March 2014 from www.bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket.

The Fray is Isaac Slade, Joe King (guitar and vocals), Dave Welsh (guitar) and Ben Wysocki (drums). The Denver based foursome formed in 2002 after high school friends Slade and King bumped into each other at the local guitar shop. The band achieved national success with their first single ‘Over My Head’, which became a top ten hit in the U.S but the release of their second single ‘How To Save A Life’ brought them into the worldwide spotlight going double platinum and earning a 2010 Grammy nomination for their self titled release.

The recently released fourth album ‘Helios’, was produced by Stuart Price (The Killers, Madonna, Keane) and Ryan Tedder  (Adele and One Republic). The latest single ‘Love Don’t Die’, received critical acclaim from Billboard Magazine and is currently on the KIA Top 40 on 94.7 Highveld Stereo and 94.5 KFM.

Helios follows the band’s 2012 release ‘Scars and Stories’ which garnered widespread praise and was produced by Brenden O’Brian who has worked with the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam and Rage Against the Machine.

This will be the first time The Fray has performed in South Africa and fans will be treated to a concert of all their hits and more.

www.thefray.com

Tour Itinerary

Johannesburg

Friday 19^th September 2014

Coca-Cola Dome

Ticket Price: R310 – R510

Tickets go on sale Friday 28^th March 2014 at 9am

Cape Town

Saturday 20^th September 2014

Grand Arena, GrandWest

Ticket Price:  R310 – R510

Tickets go on sale Friday 28^th March 2014 at 9am

Tickets from bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket

A fire broke out at a school on Corlett Drive in Sandton earlier today.

ER24 paramedics, along with provincial services, responded to the school where a fire had broken out in a storeroom on the school’s premises.

Prior to emergency services’ arrival, a teacher had smelled the smoke from the fire and begun evacuating the learners to a place of safety.

Fire fighters managed to extinguish the fire before it got out of control. Fortunately nobody was injured in the incident.

It was alleged that the fire broke out of the kiln, an insulated oven used for hardening objects.

Local authorities were on scene to investigate the incident.

Lusito Land, Joburg’s hottest family festival is back in 2014 with some of the finest South African musicians and bands taking to the stage over the 11-day period in which the festival runs. Lusito Land kicks off from 24 April to 4 May 2014 at Wemmer Pan at Pioneer Park in La Rochelle in the south of Johannesburg.

The first batch of confirmed artists is scheduled as follows:

Friday 25 April 2014

19h45 – Vin Deysel

21h00 – F.eU

Saturday 26 April 2014

16h00 – DJ Dylan SA (9 years old)

17h00 – Mi Casa

18h00 – Filipa

21h00 – Daniel Baron

Sunday 27 April 2014

15h00 – Keep It Country

17h00 – Kurt Darren

19h30 – Dr Victor& The Rasta Rebels

21h00 – Roger Goode

Monday 28 April 2014

15h30 – Mwah!

Wednesday 30 April 2014

21h00 – Prime Circle

Thursday 1 May 2014

15h00 – Alter Irving

16h00 – Juanita du Plessis

17h30 – Filipa

21h00 – Pascal & Pearce

Friday 2 May 2014

18h30 – Jason Hartman

21h00 – CrashCarBurn

Saturday 3 May 2014

15h30 – Bobby Louw& The Solid Gold Band

17h30 – Ballyhoo

19h00 – Shortstraw

20h00 – DJ Dylan SA (9years old)

21h00 – LCNVL

Further exciting artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

Lusito Land first opened its doors in 1981 as a festival that celebrated the Portuguese tradition and culture. Over the last 33 years, it has evolved into a festival celebrated by the many cultures that make up Johannesburg and Gauteng. The Portuguese tradition has however been sustained in the wonderful traditional flavours of the fine cuisine that is an important facet in the Portuguese heritage.

Lusito Land has proven to be a crowd-pleaser and was voted no fewer than 11 times as “Best Festival” by Leisure Options Magazine readers. 160,000 visitors annually walk through the gates and proving it to be the ideal family day out ahead of Gauteng’s winter months.

Tickets are available at a cost of R60 for adults and R30 for children under the age of 12 and pensioners. Children under the age of three gain free access. Lusito Land is at Wemmer Pan, Pioneers Park, corner of 11th Street and Turf Road, La Rochelle. Open from 10h00 to 22h00 on weekdays, 10h00 to 23h00 on weekends and public holidays as well as on May 2 and 10h00 to 19h00 on Sunday 4 May 2014. All proceeds from Lusito Land go to the Lusito Association for the Physically and Mentally Challenged.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks), in conjunction with the banking industry and mobile service providers, is looking for a banking crime syndicate ringleader, Mr Mduduzi Zakhele Nhlapo (aka Zakes or Big Boss), with identity number 880217 5176 08 1 in relation to a string of bank-related offences.

Zakhele is leading a sophisticated syndicate who is obtaining clients’ profiles from known banks. This information is then used to do SIM swaps and to transfer funds via mobile banking from victims’ accounts.

These crimes are often committed through the assistance of corrupt bank officials and agents in an organised fashion.

The mobile service providers and the banks have put security measures in place, but with the assistance of the corrupt bank and mobile network service providers, the syndicate always finds a way to access clients’ banking information fraudulently. This syndicate always changes their modus operandi when they are detected and when some of them are arrested.

Zakhele, who is also a drag racer and belongs to a group called “Street Fighters”, knows that he is wanted by the police. He is suspected of doing his rounds in Gauteng, especially the Vaal and Soweto areas. The Hawks strongly believe that Zakhele’s arrest will play a pivotal role in closing down this syndicate’s operations.

For any information which may lead to Zakhele’s whereabouts, please contact Lieutenant Colonel Links of the Hawks, who is investigating this matter, at 071 481 2658.

Mr Mduduzi Zakhele Nhlapo (aka Zakes or Big Boss), with identity number 880217 5176 08 1 in relation to a string of bank-related offences. For any information which may lead to Zakhele’s whereabouts, please contact Lieutenant Colonel Links of the Hawks, who is investigating this matter, at 071 481 2658.