FREE STATE NEWS January 18 2013 sample stories

FREE STATE NEWS January 18 2013 sample stories

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.

Free State News crew


Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele

Dineo Mokgosi

Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655


LINDIWE DAMANE’S GREAT STRIDES

By R Khotseng

Take a lovely young female librarian who is very much in touch with her roots and celebrates the world of arts and culture, especially poetry. Lindiwe Damane is a cultured, performing poet with an African touch.

Talking about how it all began for her, she explains: “I developed an interest in writing when I was in High School in 2006, my English teacher would give us poems to read; thereafter my love for poetry started there.”

Although still very young at the time, she experienced some frustrations along the way. “Then I would write just for fun and no one would read my work, hardly anybody even knew that I wrote poems. In 2009 I would write occasionally... eventually I stopped writing. “

Now working at the Bloemfontein Public Library, inevitably she met the powerful poet and author, Charmaine Kolwane Mrwebi who was to somewhat take her under her wing.”I met Charmaine in 2011 who went on to play a crucial role in my life. She inspired me a lot with her work. Here is a young black lady so committed to writing; an author with her first book available in some of the best Universities in the world, including in America. She would always encourage me to write. She would take me to poetry sessions and writer's organization meetings and workshops.”

Charmaine’s efforts bore fruit, and now Lindiwe herself is establishing herself as an enthusiastic, talented performer. “Charmaine revived something inside me that almost died. I started writing again and it has never felt so good. I write poems in English and my home language (IsiXhosa).”

Lindiwe expands her horizons by reading the poetry, and books of other established writers. She says: “One of my favourite poets is Ntsiki Mazwai. My local favourite writers are Charmaine Mrwebi, Hector Kunene, O Bolaji, and last but not least Ntate ‘Magic’ – who can die for poetry! (laughs)”


FS LEARNERS READY FOR 2013?

By Nthabiseng Lisele


The Mec for Education Tate Makgoe, other MECs, HODs, Mayors, Speakers’ District Directors and Senior Managers visited different schools throughout the province to assess state of readiness at the start of this year 2013.

Mec Makgoe amongst the schools he visited he went to Sediti High School on Wednesday at Thaba Nchu as this school was one of the lowest performing schools in the province. The school’s Grade 12 pass rate was 37.17% in 2012.

Makgoe will continuously visit this school to motivate and encourage the learners and teachers to perform better and exceed this year target of 85 percent.

The principal of Sediti High, Raymond Kwababa said, “The high rate of poverty and learners coming from a sad background affects them highly on their school studies so in that case we really need a hostel for these disadvantaged learners”.

A common request from learners to the department of Education is necessary school stationery and computer laboratory.

Makgoe indicated that, “About 76 schools rated as under performing will be visited by the assigned dignitary. The visits form part of the back to school campaign where the department ensures that learning and teaching starts on the first day to produce quality results at the end of the year”.

“For the 2013 about 62 learners enrolled for the Grade. And these 76 under performing school will be visited and monitored throughout the year and intervention strategies implemented to reach the 85 percent target set”, said Mec Makgoe.

FREE STATE NEWS December 21 2012 sample stories

FREE STATE NEWS December 21 2012 sample stories


This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.

MERRY XMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!



Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor


Kaya M

News Editor
Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist
Tumisang Takang (below)

Contact number:

051 447 1655



POLICE ENGAGE WITH YOUTH IN SPORTS

By Nthabiseng Lisele

Thabong SAPS Partnership policing members in conjunction with Community Policing Forum (CPF) engaged youth with sports.

This was an effort by these policing partners to take young people off the streets by initiating sports against crime event which was launched on Wednesday, 19 December at ZokaBaloyi Stadium. The tournament will come to an end on Friday, 21 December.

The youth were addressed by the chairperson of Thabong CPF, Mr Serake Leeuw who encouraged young people to be involved in activities such as sports rather than supporting evil groups.

“We want young people who focus on socially acceptable activities in Thabong. These youth is the one that does not abuse alcohol in the name of entertainment. Those who abuse alcohol are easily lured into criminal activities,” said Leeuw.

He further thanked the youth for participating in this year’s sports against crime in large numbers. The girls were then ferried to Thabong Indoor Sports Center for competing in netball while the boys remained at the stadium for soccer. The teams for both males and ladies were formed out of the twelve sub sectors in terms of sector policing model used by Thabong SAPS.

One of the young participants in the games, Liziwe Manyane, 19 asserted that this initiative is good for them. She pointed out that they learn about crime while engaging in sports on the other hand. The spirit of working together is enhanced through.

“It also takes us away from the streets and drinking booze. It keeps us busy as schools are closed,” said Manyane.

On arrival at Thabong Indoor Sports Centre the ladies were also addressed by Captain Matladi Sello on sexual offences. They were strongly warned about roaming on the streets at night while drunk as there are scoundrels waiting to pounce on them.

“Don’t put your lives and dignity in danger unnecessarily. Should you be attacked in any way, please report it immediately and please don’t withdraw these cases,” warned Captain Sello.


BOOK REVIEW

A fine work to guide us all

Book: Mr Kgaile, you were Wrong

Author: Bennet Mkhehlane

Reviewer: Raselebeli Khotseng

By now it is clear that the author, Bennet Mkheklane, is a very powerful motivator, and a deeply spiritual individual. This is his second book which confirms the promise of his first work.

His debut book, titled ‘A Passion to Serve’ was a great success, and elements of the book can be seen in the second. The strain of spirituality runs through the work as we are urged to abide by the word of God.

The author covers many topics and subjects that are part of daily life. The emphasis is always on the positive and it is obvious that the author goes out of his way to ensure that the spiritual path is the only real fruitful path.

There are examples taken from around the world, especially the United States of America which has always been a vibrant and fruitful source of so many exciting things; with colourful characters and a lot of publicity.

I enjoyed the wide discourse and advice on marital conflicts late on in this new book. Here the author shows humility and empathy; even pointing out what could be his own weaknesses as a human being in keeping his family together.

This is the work of a very intelligent person, already making a difference in our society. Despite the rather controversial reference in the title, this is another thorough work to cherish.

SPORT:

FS STARS, CELTIC DRAW LAST GAMES

By Mahlomola Moshe

Was it coincidence as both elite Free State clubs, Free State Stars and Bloemfontein Celtic pulled off 1-1 draws in their last matches of the year? Some wags are speculating! Free State Stars drew 1-1 with Bidvest Wits at the Bidvest Stadium on Wednesday evening in an Absa Premiership match.

As regards the Free State match, In the fifth minute Matthew Pattison saw his curling left-footed free-kick from outside the box deflected over the bar. Then Wits defender Thomas Sweswe hit a low drive from 30-yards out, which Motsoeneng tipped away for a corner.

Ea Lla Koto should have taken the lead in the 35th minute when Anver Esterhuizen unleashed a shot from 25-yards out, which Wits keeper Ryan Harrison mistakenly thought to be going over the bar but the ball hit the woodwork.

Then Calvin Kadi spotted Motsoeneng off his line in the 48th minute and came close to scoring when his attempt from just inside the halfway line went wide of goal.

The home side were awarded a penalty in the 58th minute when Kadi was brought down in the area. The striker stepped up and took the spot kick himself and sent Motsoeneng the wrong way to make it 1-0. In the 72nd minute Pattison threatened with a free kick from just outside the box. After his initial shot hit the wall, his second bite of the cherry just shaved the post.

Noah Chivuta nearly got his side the equaliser when he turned and shot from just outside the box, but saw his attempt fly high and over. Stars never gave up and got the equaliser in the 93rd minute when Nomandela beat a few markers and shot from close range beyond the reach of Harrison.

On their own part, Bloemfontein Celtic could only draw 1-1 at the Free State Stadium on Wednesday night as incessant rains drenched the ambience. Lerato Manzini opened the scoring midway through the first half, before captain Mongezi Bobe replied for Leopards.

The visitors had an early chance to take the lead in the 11th minute when Joshua Obaje went on a great run on the left before finding Thomas Madimba inside the box, but he fired wide of goal.

However, it was the home side who broke the deadlock in the 28th minute after Posnet Omony did well to block a header from Manzini, but the striker managed to tuck the ball in from the rebound, 1-0.

Lidoda Duvha didn’t take long to get back into the game as they leveled matters four minutes later through captain Bobe, who drilled an unstoppable shot into the back of the net from just outside the penalty area, 1-1.

Celtic could’ve regained the lead two minute before the break when Joel Mogorosi delivered a telling cross to find substitute Jacky Motshegwa inside the box, but his first shot was blocked while his second attempt went over the crossbar.

Then six minutes into the second half it was the away side who came close to scoring their second goal of the match, but Brian Amidu’s shot produced a brilliant save from Patrick Tignyemb.

Siwelele had an early chance of their own in the 54th minute when Mogorosi met a well-taken corner from Lyle Lakay, but he directed his header wide of goal.

With a quarter of an hour left on the clock, it was Mogorosi yet again who threatened to separate the two sides, but his shot was saved by Omony. Then in the 88th minute Johannes Motlhaping came close to scoring what would’ve been the winner for his side, but his header grazed the upright with the goalkeeper well-beaten.

The result leaves Celtic in seventh place with 21 points, while Leopards are in 12th place with 17 points. Now the festive season break commences!

FREE STATE NEWS December 7 2012 sample stories

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.


Free State News crew


Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele

Dineo Mokgosi

Raselebeli Khotseng

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655

Museum Celebrates Life and Times of Gilbert Modise

By Dineo Mokgosi

The National Afrikaans Literary Museum and Research Centre (NALN) will be hosting a celebration of the life and times of deceased Free State poet and mbongi, Gilbert Modise today (Friday, December 07.)

“The objective is to honour Modise as a poet, mbongi and a sangoma. His life will be celebrated in the context of the 100 years of the ANC because he was born and bred in Mangaung,” said Mpikeleni Duma, veteran journalist, activist and essayist.

Modise was born in 1964 in Batho Location in the Free State. He obtained his secondary education at Sehunelo High School in Bloemfontein and thereafter educated himself further by reading widely and imaginatively. He went on to become one of the most celebrated black cultural activists in the Free State- an author, poet, general innovator, musician, playwright and literary activist. He has also published novels in Setswana.

During his life time, his house in Mangaung became a pilgrimage of sorts for writers and cultural artists. His most impressive published work, an anthology of powerful poetry, was called “An Eyesore”

The event will take place at NALN Museum in Bloemfontein at 13h00 in the afternoon. Interested persons can contact Charmaine on 071 5573 231 to get more information.


The unsung literary hero (George Rampai)

By Raselebeli Khotseng

Those in the literary fraternity are already calling him the “unsung literary hero” of the Free State – but George Rampai from Ladybrand prefers to remain in the background.

Rampai was named “Author of the Year” at the recent Mbali Literary Awards that took place in Clocolan. This was on the strength of his novel titled From where I stand which was published this year.

“I have loved literature all my life,” George told Free State News. “I was so delighted when I won that award. My novel – From where I stand – I worked on for many, many years till it came out in its present format. I am happy so many positive reviews of the book have been written,”

Indeed, the literary world has appreciated Rampai’s novel. Impressive reviews and criticisms continue to be churned out. Rampai says: “It is a great pleasure for me when I Google myself and see all the excellent articles on my book. This encourages me to write even better and with more focus,”

George Rampai is a shining example of the great talent that exists in the smaller towns of South Africa. He says: “I have always been involved in creative writing at the grassroots level and I know there is a lot of talent out there. I am happy to be a role model for many. Great writers like Omoseye Bolaji and Pule Lechesa have encouraged me along the line,”

With a grin, Rampai adds: “It’s been a successful year. I intend to enjoy the festive season in great fashion!”


FS SAPS WELCOMES NEW POLICE OFFICIALS

By Nthabiseng Lisele

More than two hundred police trainees from different Police Academies have been welcomed at Thabong. The formal welcoming took place at Thabong SAPS Academy on Wednesday 28 November 2012.



Thabong and Kroonstad Cluster Commanders General Lerato Molale and Brigadier Appaphia Modise were among Station Commanders and Field Training Officers who welcomed the trainees. Free State Provincial Head of Field Training Development, Lieutenant Colonel Hugo Erasmus and Thabong SAPS Academy Commander Colonel Linkie Masilela were also present at the ceremony.



The trainees will perform their field training programme at their different stations at six clusters namely Thabong, Welkom, Bultfontein, Tumahole, Kroonstad as well as Zamdela.



When welcoming the trainees, Kroonstad Cluster Commander Brigadier Appaphia Modise encouraged the trainees to go and serve their communities with respect and discipline as they were taught at the Police Academies.



“Each one of you must know and understand that you are the ambassadors of the South African Police organisation. You must not misuse your powers and ill-treat the community members out there”, said Brig Modise.



Major General Molale illustrated a short history of policing and explained the circumstances that led to the establishment of policing in South Africa. He also emphasized the issue of discipline to the trainees and all members who were present at the ceremony.



“If you have joined the police with the intention of getting rich by robbing members of the community, please be informed that you have followed the wrong career and your destiny to jail is very short because you will be locked up in jail sooner that you can think. This organisation has no place for corrupt police officials”, said Major General Molale.

FREE STATE NEWS NOVEMBER 23 sample stories

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.

Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”


Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele

Dineo Mokgosi

Raselebeli Khotseng


Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655

FSNEWS shines at Mbali Awards

By Nthabiseng Lisele

It was a night of triumph for Free State news at the Mbali Literary Awards at the weekend as both Omoseye Bolaji (Free State News news editor) and Kgang Abel Motheane (Free State News long-standing columnist) garnered major awards.

Out of the four awards dished out, Bolaji was rewarded with a special Lifetime Achievement Award, whilst Motheane was named winner of Commentator/Writer on Literature category. The glittering ceremony took place at Batho Centre in Clocolan.

Here are the Citations on the two winners:

“Mbali Awards Committee is also happy to announce that we decided to bestow a special Lifetime Achievement award on Mr Omoseye Bolaji this year. Here is a man who has seen it all and done it all. Mr Bolaji is truly a great African writer. Not only because he has ublished some 30 books of various genre. Not only because multiple critical books have been published on him; not to talk of countless essays published around the world on his literary work; and never mind his many awards.

"But also mainly because he has dedicated his life selflessly to promoting quintessential literature, inspiring, spreading pertinent literary information and knowledge in excellent fashion whilst somewhat seemingly lurking in the background most of the time. He remains the key, pivotal protagonist in respect of our literature.”

“The award for commentator on literature was also a simple choice. It goes to Ntate Kgang Abel Motheane for his Bookshelf column. It is a superb, concise, informative column which comes out every week.

"This year alone, the column has published excellent appraisals on writers like Leseli Mokhele, Gomolemo Mokae, George Rampai, Job Mzamo etc; why, even the late illustrious Gore Vidal (American) was featured in the column! It is no surprise that a large number of these excellent write-ups have found themselves on the internet for the world to read”

Other winners:

George Rampai – Winner, Author of the Year

Ishmael Mzwandile Soqaga – Winner, Promising newcomer of the year

Above photo: Ishmael Soqaga with his Certificate.

Another land invasion by community

By Dineo Mokgosi

With the Gauteng government’s recent demolitions of houses built on illegally purchased land, the municipality of Maluti-a-Phofung in the Free State province is warning the residents of Bluegumbusch 199 farm to vacate the area or face eviction by court order.

“Occupation of this area is illegal and unlawful as has been confirmed by a High Court Order issued and made available to the illegal occupants in July 2012. The municipality wants to alert the illegal occupants that by staying on this land, they run the risk of being evicted as ordered by the High Court, and losing some if not all of their assets on the premises. Entrance to this area is trespassing, which can be criminally prosecuted,” the municipality said.

Land grabs have become a common site in the country with many blaming the slow progress of government in processing land claims. Critics have also put the blame on government’s policy of willing buy-willing seller saying that land owners can choose not to sell the land.

The Bluegumbusch farm is situated on the south side of the University of the Free State, Qwa Qwa campus. The area is commonly known as Bokamoso.

“There are people who are already erecting permanent structures on this land, and they are warned that nobody will take responsibility of their financial losses as a result of eviction, as ordered by the High Court of South Africa,” the municipality said.

The municipality has advertised serviced sites for sale in Phuthaditjhaba Extension 10, to make provision for those people who are in need of sites to buy and are willing to move there to avoid being evicted.

The municipality has called on all people who need residential sites to apply at the municipal offices to be awarded sites in the proclaimed and serviced areas. Residents can approach the municipality for the available sites from now up until the end of December 2012. Set criteria will be used by the municipality for the allocation of sites.

SPORT

Bloem Celtic saunter into Telkom KO Final!

By Mahlomola Moshe

Bloemfontein Celtic in the final of a major cup! It seems almost surreal to long-suffering proliferating fans. Yet that is the reality, after a resilient display against Free State stars in the semi final.

The city of roses’ darling club booked a place in the final of the Telkom Knockout with a dramatic 3-2 victory over derby rivals Free State Stars at the

Charles Mopeli Stadium at the weekend.



In a five-goal thriller that went to extra time, Phunya Sele Sele were twice pegged back by Ea Lla Koto’s Togolese attacker Dove Wome before netting the decisive goal through Botswana winger Joel Mogorosi.



Celtic should have opened the scoring as early as the third minute when Lyle Lakay whipped in a great cross from a free kick that found the head of Thabo Nthethe, but the Bafana Bafana defender put his effort wide of goal.



Two minutes later Stars striker Moeketsi Mvula tested goalkeeper Patrick Tignyemb with a well-struck drive from a tight angle. It was to be the first of several good saves from the Cameroonian between the away team’s posts.



Ea Lla Koto were mere inches away from a goal in the eighth minute when Dove Wome fired a free kick into the danger area that was touched on by Sadate Ouro-Akoriko, with the ball striking the upright.



Stars played with a strong breeze at their back in the first half and made good use of it to stretch Celtic’s defence, while also never being shy of shooting from long range, but they were unable to get the better of Tignyemb.

And the celebrations are still spilling over….

Free State News November 9 2012 samples

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.

Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Raselebeli Khotseng

Columnist (Feminine Flutters)

Regomoditswe Motsalane

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655

9-YEAR-OLD CHESS PRODIGY!

By Nthabiseng Lisele

He’s still very young, but his mind is impeccably sharp and ready to beat his folks in chess. His personal bedroom is bedecked with certificates, medals and trophies garnered thanks to chess championships.

Itumeleng Leeuw is only 9 years- old but brilliant in chess; even his father Edwin Leeuw confirmed to Free State News this week that his boy is good at what he does.

Itumeleng has won about 15 chess competitions around the Free State. He has 15 certificates of chess championship, 2 medals and a trophy. He has won most of these competitions at the provincial and national level.

Itumeleng told Free State News that he started picking up notes and rules for chess at the age of 7 years when he was doing grade 1. He’s now in grade 3 at Kruitberg primary school in Bloemfontein.

According to Itumeleng, he got inspired to play chess from his uncle who usually played outside their house with friends. “He showed me some tactics and the rest of training I got from school.”

Itumeleng’s proud parents said that they support their boy all the way as they see good results of this game to their son even academically.

“We are proud of the sport our boy has chosen at school and we support him. We have realized that this sport can take him places as young as he is and we are especially happy that it plays a big role in his education”, said his mother, Connie Leeuw.

When Free State News interviewed the young, intelligent and brave Itumeleng, about education he gets from playing chess, he said: “I don’t only enjoy playing chess but I learn academically from the game”.

Itumeleng said that chess game helps him a lot with his Mathematics at school and currently he’s doing very well in the subjects. This young boy has academically achieved about 5 certificates in Mathematics for being one of the best achievers in the subjects.

“Chess really helps me a lot to be the best in Maths in my class and that’s one of my advices to my fellow schools mates who think Maths is too difficult for them”, said Itumeleng.

Itumeleng also vouchsafed that when he finishes his matric he wishes to study Electrical Engineering, Information Technology or Accounting because he’s the best in Mathematics.

Itumeleng is going to Cape Town on the 14 December this year as he’s one of the competitors for 2012 South African Chess Championship.

His parents need sponsorship for their son and for his chess team mates of about 13 pupils. They mostly need assistance in accommodation, refreshments, chess uniform and transport and they will spend 4 days in Cape Town.

If you are willing to give any assistance you can call the Free State News offices to pledge or sponsor this chess champions.

City of Roses hosts mammoth literary occasion

By Raselebeli Khotseng

The International African Writers Conference kicked off this week with focus concentrated on the University of the Free State which was the venue of the pivotal events. An incredibly large number of distinguished arts and culture exponents were present at the occasion.

Dignitaries included the national Deputy Minister of Arts and Culture, Dr Joe Phaahla, Prof Keorapetse Kgotsile the superb poet, Lebo Mashile, a celebrated female poet, Dr Osinubi who was the keynote speaker, Tinah Mnumzana well known actress and writer; Prof Andries Oliphant the academic; Oswald Mtshali the long-standing poet and activist; and Elinor Sisulu the brilliant biographer and writer; and of course Nadine Gordimer the outstanding Nobel Laureate for literature.

Wordsmiths from the Free State who from the early stage contributed to the proceedings included Nthabiseng Jah Rose Jafta, Charmaine Mrwebi, Icebound Makhele, Raselebeli Khotseng, and Alinah Morake.

Mr Khotseng, a poet, held sway over a large group of youngsters from Legae Primary School (from Phahameng in Mangaung). He highlighted the importance of libraries and literacy in general to the kids. He also encouraged the young ones to relish poetry and general reading; using personal examples as illustration.

Charmaine Mrwebi from the Bloemfontein Public Library was in her element as she introduced many literary works to the children; she utilized her experience as a librarian to point out how important it is for the young ones to start reading creatively from their infancy.

On her own part, Tinah Mnumzana talked about the age-old art of story-telling to the young. She emphasized how the world of animals can be woven into such stories in a fascinating manner to grip the attention of the very young ones.

The event culminates tomorrow in the South African Literary awards which would be graced by the great African writer, Prof Chinua Achebe.

SPORT:

Mangaung Rugby Club Annual General Meeting

By Mahlomola Moshe

The Mangaung Rugby Club held its annual general meeting on 01 November 2012 at the Mangaung Outdoor Centre in Bloemfontein. The meeting which was attended by players of the team was a platform to give the team and management the opportunity to come up with new plans to help the club and also strengthen their management which was a problem for the club.

The main business of the annual meeting was to elect the Office and also to give awards to the players that have played vital role to ensure that Mangaung became a better side during their league campaign this year. The meeting which was conducted by Manager of Development from Free Sate Rugby Union, Mr Dick pointed out the current situation that confronted the club.

According to him, the status of Mangaung Rugby Club was not in good shape which forced them to come to the decision of placing the club under administration. Dick stated that the club’s entire resources come directly from the union, due to bad management.

He elaborated that due to the fact that the club was placed under administration, there were no minutes, annual and financial reports. As the result of the status the club, the new Office bearers were nominated and elected. They included Chairperson James Letuka, deputy chairperson Mpho Ditedu, Secretary Jerry Maele, and additional member Tsikane Litsoane.

The new chairperson, James Lutuka stated that their plan is to place Mangaung rugby club on the map by creating a strong side that will compete, and distinguish itself next year. He thanked people that entrusted them into the leadership. “We shall ensure that Mangaung will never be placed under administration again” he promised.

The meeting adopted the motion that the awards should be postponed to the next meeting.

Free State News November 2 samples

Free State News November 2 samples

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.

Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele

Dineo Mokgosi

Raselebeli Khotseng

Columnist (Feminine Flutters)
Regomoditswe Motsalane

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang

Contact number:

051 447 1655 051 447 1655


FS YOUTH FRUITFULLY ENGAGE WITH MAGASHULE

By Nthabiseng Lisele

The Premier of the Free State Ace Magashule hosted a Provincial Youth Indaba facilitating a two day conference at Phillip Sanders Resort and Conference Centre in Bloemfontein.

According to Magashule, this is part of the effort by the Free State Provincial Government to advance sustainable youth development as recognition that the youth are the oyster of their common and sustainable future.

This conference is called Youth Indaba and their theme is: “Advance Youth Development: Working Together To Eradicate Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment”.

Premier Magashule said that the Provincial Government will be convening a Free State Youth Indaba where the government will create an opportunity to interact with all youth on matters relating to empowerment and development.

Premier’s office said that since the State of the Province Address earlier this year, the Youth Affairs Unit in the Office of the Premier has been hard at work to develop an all-inclusive database of youth organisations, businesses, identification of youth cooperatives, as well as group and individual initiatives and excellence.

“This has been with a view to widen and broaden youth participation and activism in all spheres of life such as Education, Business, and the wider spectrum of Entrepreneurship”, premier’s office stated.

Premier Magashule further has earlier this year outlined various interventions that were showcased by the Provincial Government since 2009 that were meant to advance youth development like such as Provision of Bursaries to more than 4000 young people since 2009.

Provision of support to Provincial Government Bursary Holders through mentorship by Skills Development Officers and dedicated annual visits by Premier and Members of the Executive Council to all Institutions of Higher Learning were also showcased.

Magashule also created opportunities for Provincial Government Bursary Holders to be employed in the private sector whilst absorbing more than 200 of these in the various provincial government departments

According to the premier all these initiatives are an indication of the commitment of the Free State Provincial Government in implementing a sustainable programme to advance sustainable youth development.

“This programmatic approach is unleashed to secure a sustainable future and a meaningful role and beneficiation of our youth in the current socio-economic and political environment”, Magashule indicated.

Premier Magashule said that this is not enough as this government must and should do more to ensure that they build a future that is secure for the youth.

“The Youth Indaba is indeed a decisive step towards ensuring that the youth take their rightful place in determining their future and destiny”, he said.

The Provincial Youth Indaba is expecting more than 400 young people across the province that has responded to the invitation.



SAHRC CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION

By Thapelo Molebatsi

Northern Cape - The alleged beating to death of a man in police custody in the Northern Cape must be investigated, the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) said this week.

“The commission is currently in a process of further investigating this matter after a complaint was laid with our provincial office by the family of the deceased,” the SAHRC said in a statement.

The man was allegedly assaulted on October 6, while he was an awaiting trial prisoner being held at the Rosedale police station, in Upington.

Preliminary reports showed that he died of bleeding on the brain, a fractured skull and aspiration, the SAHRC said.

“The commission is also worried about reports of similar cases implicating the police from the same station in instances of brutality against suspects in lawful custody.”

The commission said it had scheduled a meeting with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate and would ask what action would be taken to deal with the allegations of brutality.

“The death or assault of anybody in the custody of the police is a matter that deserves full investigation,” it said.

SPORT:

Telkom KO Humdinger for Bloemfontein Celtic

...meet Orlando Pirates this weekend



By Mahlomola Moshe

The quarterfinals of the 2012 Telkom Knockout will get underway today `with a clash between Maritzburg United and SuperSport United at Harry Gwala Stadium.

The last fixture of the last eight round takes place on Sunday, November 4, at the Free State Stadium where Bloemfontein Celtic face the daunting task of overcoming defending champions, Orlando Pirates, who were clinical in their 2-0 away win over Black Leopards in the

round of 16.



Siwelele were equally impressive when they came back from a goal down

to win 2-1 against a determined Chippa United side at Philippi. Clint

Larsen will hope to make it two out of two against the Sea Robbers,

having already beaten them in the league this season.



Back to the first game today (Nov 2), Maritzburg are nicknamed, have done well so far and will look to continue with their impressive form when Gavin Hunt’s charges come to Maritzburg.



Matsatsantsa on the other hand will play their second away match in

this year’s TKO tournament and a fight against Ernst Middendorp’s much

improved side will provide a stern test for the Pretoria based outfit.



The second encounter of the last eight will take place tomorrow (Saturday,

November 3), where Mamelodi Sundowns will travel to KwaZulu Natal to

face AmaZulu at the King Zwelithini Stadium. Kick-off for that match

will be 3pm.



Both sides have been struggling in the league this season and a win

for either side will go a long a way in changing the mindset among the

players fighting to prove their worth in these trying times.



On the same day, Bidvest Wits will welcome Free State Stars at the

Bidvest Stadium, kickoff 8pm. The Students overcame a resilient Kaizer

Chiefs side 3-2 in the opening round to get to this stage, while Ea

Lla Koto were impressive in their 3-1 demolition on Golden Arrows.


Full fixtures



Friday, 2 November 2012

Maritzburg United vs SuperSport United- Harry Gwala Stadium, 8pm


Saturday, 3 November 2012


AmaZulu vs Mamelodi Sundowns- King Zwelithini Stadium, 3pm

Bidvest Wits vs Free State Stars- Bidvest Stadium, 8:15pm

Sunday, 4 November 2012



Bloemfontein Celtic vs Orlando Pirates- Free State Stadium, 3pm

FREE STATE NEWS October 19 2012 samples

Free State News October 19 samples

This web page(s) regularly focuses on the leading Free State (South Africa) newspaper – Free State News – the first regular newspaper to be orchestrated fully by black people in the Free State province. The paper has been published on a weekly basis since 1999. Regular items like “Feature of the week” have appeared here over the years.


Free State News crew

Publisher

Moses Vinger

Confidential Secretary/Manager

Maki Mohapi aka “Madam Maki” “H.C”

Receptionist

Thobeka Funani

Editor

Kaya M

News Editor

Omoseye Bolaji

Contributors

Nthabiseng Lisele
Dineo Mokgosi
Raselebeli Khotseng

Columnist (Feminine Flutters)

Regomoditswe Motsalane (below)

Lay-out artist

Tumisang Takang


Contact number:


051 447 1655 051 447 1655

KOMPHELA REVEALS CRIME STATS

By Nthabiseng Lisele

The Mec for police, roads and transport Butana Komphela released the provincial crime statistics for the period of 1 April to 31 March this year.

“This is a duty that must be understood by society as a reflection o the work done in the fight crime”, said Komphela.

Komphela said that, “the crime stat that we are sharing with the province indicates a mixed bag with marginal downward trends in some of the crime categories. We will continue to draw from the lesson and replicate in other areas”.

Numbers shows that for the 2011/12 financial year, the sexual offences ratio increased by 1, 8% and as for rape it increased by 2, 5%.

“We need to emphasize that as government we are still concerned about the scourge of rape in our province”, said Mec Komphela.

Komphela admitted that this one of challenging for police to police. He said that it is also influenced by a reporting behavior, if victims trust the police then they will get more reporting.

“So the issue of under-reporting remains a challenge and not just in the Free State but also in South Africa and internationally”, said Komphela.

For 2011/12 financial year only, car hijacking increased by 20, 9%, cash-in-transit decreased by33, 3%, as for the bank robberies there was a stable reports with no increase or decrease reported.

There was also increase in crime regarding house robberies by 4, 0% and business robberies increased by 8, 0%.

Komphela indicated that most crime takes place within communities and many members of the public are aware.

“As such the public is encouraged to be whistle-blowers against crime and report crime at all times”, he said.

He further said that communities must resist from creating a market for stolen goods including CDs and DVDs by not buying stolen items and participate in neighbourhood safety forums.

The illegal possession of firearms ratio decreased by 1, 5% while ATM bombings decreased by 26, 6% from 15 cases to 11 cases.

“For at least the past four financial years the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition case remained absolutely constant however we still remain concerned and we shall be rolling out various campaigns to address this challenge”, said Mec Komphela.


Arts and Crafts feast at Macufe

By Dineo Mokgosi

Accomplished deaf artist, sports coach and arts teacher at Bartimea School for the Deaf and Blind in Thaba Nchu, Simon Ndaba exhibited his artworks at the 15th annual Macufe arts and crafts exhibition in Bloemfontein.

Ndaba who has exhibited and sold his art pieces at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival, showcased two of his most prized pieces at this year’s Macufe. He exhibited a painting called Mask and Women Dance valued at a whopping R5 000 and a Mahatma Gandhi portrait valued at over R3 000.

Other exhibitors on the day included Thaba Blinds from Phuthaditjhaba in the Eastern Free State. Thaba Blinds are manufactures of unique African range of natural grass products. Their collection of blinds is well known in both South Africa and international décor. This proudly South African product is suitable for a whole range of environments and offers a natural aesthetically pleasing alternative to providing privacy and light diffusion in the home.

The Thaba Blinds cooperative is situated about 50 km outside of Harrismith in Phuthaditjhaba. The local community joined forces with the Department of Social Development and the Department of Arts and Culture to establish the Phuthaditjhaba Grass Weaving Factory Trust that has been providing the area with a highly successful and sustainable job creation and empowerment project, benefiting hundreds.

One of the benefactors of the project is Mamoya Mofokeng from QwaQwa. She is one of the women involved in crafting the products.

“I really enjoy this job. It has benefited our community a lot. We are now able to feed our families from the money that we receive,” said Mofokeng.

Mofokeng said they provide a full service to their customers. They take all measurements in the house and windows, and deliver your products via courier.

Thaba Blinds’s other products include African pots, baskets, ceiling finishes, bags, wall and floor, wine bottle covers and table mats which are valued at R30 each, small décor hats go for R5 and blinds are valued at R50 each.

THE BOOKSHELF (Column) With K A Motheane

Illuminating wordfest!!

It’s been exciting times for FS literature again, as the government – via Dept for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation put together a three day superb Wordfest; as part of the just concluded Macufe.

A wide range of speakers turned up and delivered speeches on many aspects of writing, publishing, marketing etc. There was especial focus on Sesotho literature from the very beginning and current trends and developments.

Speakers included the likes of Mongane Wally Serote, Simphiwo Mahala, Flaxman Qoopane, KPD Maphalla, Pule Lechesa and many others. It was an artistic and dramatic occasioned characterized by cultural dances, songs and open mike sessions where stakeholders joined in the fun.

The MEC for Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation Dan Kgothule who basked in the occasion also delivered key address where he pointed out the vital significance of writing, especially in the mother tongue. He was on hand to advise younger writers against certain temptations

Mr Qoopane delivered an excellent address on the fusion of journalistic and fictional aspects of writing. Using eclectic examples from around the world including Eurocentric and African wordsmiths he painted a vivid picture to the audience.

Mr Pule Lechesa also held forth on Sesotho writing over the years especially as regards the importance of the mother tongue. He also elaborated on other aspects of writing like self-publishing, rejection by publishers and their readers – in sum he took the floor and fielded many questions with some expertise

PIX: Free State News' Raselebeli Magic Khotseng and O Bolaji at the wordfest