Malay Style Chicken Curry - Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1½ tsp fresh coriander seeds
• 2 tsp dried chilli flakes or chopped fresh chilli to taste
• 2 tsp ground fennel or 4 tsp fennel seeds
• 1½ tsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp coarse black pepper
• 10 whole cardamom pods
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• ¼ cup oil for frying
• 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
• 410g tin chopped, peeled tomatoes
• 1 kg chicken pieces
• 2 tsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp brown sugar (muscovado is ideal)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt

Method

1. Put the first 10 ingredients listed – from the coriander seeds down to the garam masala – in a pestle and mortar or a coffee-bean grinder. Mash together so that the cardamom pods crack open and you have a mess of spices.
2. Heat the oil in a pot and fry the onion over a fairly high heat for a few minutes, stirring now and then. Add the mashed spices and stir. You might have to add more oil, as the spices slurp up oil as they fry.
3. Fry, stirring a few times, for about two minutes. Add the tomatoes, stir through and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the chicken pieces and, using a wooden spoon, coat with the sauce. Turn down the heat, put the lid on and cook for about 20 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with the garlic, sugar, lemon juice and salt. Simmer, with the lid slightly tilted to let steam escape, for a further 15 minutes. Then stir through, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
6. Near the end of cooking, wait for oil and fat to collect on top and then skim off as much as you can while the pot is still on the stove.
7. Serve with rice and old-fashioned stewed beans.

Annies Dumplings – Makes about 10 Dumplings

Ingredients

• 1 cup cake flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 tbsp butter, softened
• ½ tsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp onion, finely chopped
• ½ tsp dried thyme, basil or rosemary
• 1 egg
• Milk, to mix

Method

1. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.
2. Mix in the pepper, parsley, onion and herbs.
3. Beat the egg well in a small bowl, then stir into the mixture. Don’t worry about lumps. Now stir in just enough milk to make a sticky dough – not too wet, not dry, just sticky enough to stick to your fingers.
4. Drop dessert spoonfuls of the batter into your simmering soup or stew, scraping it out of the spoon with your finger. Cover the pot and simmer gently for 20 minutes, by which time the dumplings should be cooked.
5. Remove the lid and simmer for a further five minutes so that the tops of the dumplings dry out a little.
6. Serve the soup or stew in warmed bowls, with two to three dumplings per serving.

Beef stew in red wine with croutons

TIP

If you use a cheaper cut of stewing meat, cook until the meat is tender. There will be no need to reduce the sauce due to the longer cooking time. In fact, you may have to add liquid during cooking.

Ingredients

• 500g beef rump or sirloin,cut into chunks
• 1 tbsp cake flour
• Oil for frying
• 1 large red onion, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 250g rindless back bacon, cut into large pieces
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup red wine
• 1–2 tsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp coarse black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped,to serve

For the croutons

• ½ cup olive oil
• Fresh garlic, finely chopped, to taste
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 long French baguette, cut into about 12 thin slices

Method

1. Place beef in a bowl. Sprinkle with the flour, then toss to coat.
2. Heat some oil in a large pot and add the onion. Stir through for a minute, then add the beef and bacon. Cook for about two to three minutes over a high heat, stirring often.
3. Reduce the heat. Add the Worcestershire sauce and red wine, put the lid on and simmer for 10 minutes on a low heat. Remove the lid, turn the heat up and simmer uncovered for five minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, pepper and salt. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
5. While the meat simmers, heat your grill and position a grid about 14 cm below the heat.
6. To make the croutons, pour the olive oil into a small bowl, add lots of garlic and the thyme, and dip both sides of each baguette slice into the oil. Place the slices on a baking tray and toast under the grill, turning once. Watch them: the croutons can burn in as little as two minutes. They should be golden brown and crisp.
7. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside. Turn the heat up high under the remaining liquid. Reduce (this takes a few minutes) and pour over the meat.
8. Arrange the croutons around the stew and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with potatoes or brown basmati rice.

Farmhouse Lamb Stew – Serves 4-6

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg stewing lamb, such as knuckles
• Cake flour fordusting
• Oil for frying
• 200 ml water
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 1 onion, peeled and roughly chopped
• 410g tin cropped or whole, peeled tomatoes
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 small chilli, finely chopped or 1 tsp hot sauce
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp ground sage or 1 tbsp chopped fresh
• 2 tsp dried rosemary or 15 ml chopped fresh
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Curried Calamari Stew - Serves 4-6

TIP

If you do not have a ready-made breyani mix, use a selection of any of the following: allspice berries, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cardamom seeds, some cinnamon, dried curry or bay leaves, star anise and turmeric (crush them roughly together).

Ingredients

• 900g calamari tubes
• Oil for frying
• 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
• 4 tsp crushed breyani mix
• 1 tbsp Cape Malay fish masala powder or any mild, fresh curry powder
• 2–3 tsp cardamom seeds, crushed
• 410g tin chopped, peeled tomatoes
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tsp salt

Method

1. Rinse and pat dry the calamari tubes, and remove any transparent ‘pens’ still inside. If the tubes are large, cut them crosswise into two or three pieces.
2. Pour about ½ cm of oil into a heavy-bottomed pot and fry the onion, stirring now and then, until softened.
3. Add the breyani mix, masala powder and cardamom seeds to the softened onion, and stir over a fairly high heat for a minute.
4. Add the tomatoes, sugar and garlic, and stir through. Keep the heat high and add all the calamari. Mix well and, when it starts plopping, turn the heat to low, put on a lid and simmer gently for 1 to 1½ hours. During cooking, add the salt to taste.
5. Serve on sticky white rice with a salad of mixed greens.

Recipes extracted from Roast Duck on Sunday by Zuretha Roos and Annalie Nel (Random House Struik)

SuperDraw Winner

Mani Mala Pillay still can’t believe she win R100 000 in the superdraw.

From left: Selva Pillay (winner’s husband), Mani Mala Pillay (winner), Sindy Moodley (cosmetics manager) and Reanne Govender (store manager)

Has the reality of winning R100 000 sunk in yet?
Yes, and I’m very excited.

Why did you choose Cansa and Reaching Out as your charities?
I lost my mother-in-law to cancer and helping that organisation is close to my heart. Reaching Out helps those affected by domestic violence, and I think they’re doing a great job.

What do you plan on doing with the money?
I’ll save half of it and invest the other half in my business.

What do you enjoy most about Club?
The promotions and benefits.

Do you have a message for other Club readers?
Just keep being a member. It’ll pay off one day.

Competition Winners
Congratulations to our March 2013 competition winners

CD Giveaway
Birbal Mr R, Dundee
Brander Mr AT, Goodwood
Mpanza Mr G, Hillbrow

Crossword
Wilken Ms S, PE

DVD Giveaway
Bila Ms ST, Bluegum View
Rudman Ms D, PE
Zwane Ms T, Evaton

Issey Miyake Fragrance
Matooane Mr S,
Blouberg Sands
Thobejane Mr PE, Jozini

Nu Metro Vouchers
Brentjies Ms MJ, Clewer
Croome Ms M, Charlo
Dikale Mr B, Boitekong
Kunene Ms M, Daveyton
Lechalaba Ms NM, Kroonstad
Makutwana Mr B, Mdantsane
Maroesha Mr MB, Sebokeng
Mtsweni Ms G, Eastvale
Ntebe Ms EN, KwaZakhele
Rahantlane Mr TS, Dikgakeng

Spar Gift Cards
Adams Ms BA, Hopefield
Alexander Ms A, Buffalo Flats
Baderoen Mr S, Mitchell’s Plain
Bhebheza Mr X, Kingsway
Carter Ms J, Bellville
Chiloane Mr F, Wattville
Diamond Mr SA, Khayelitsha
Dinake Ms MI, Mmabatho
Don Ms FE, Scottsdene
Finxa Ms M, Johannesburg
Govender Ms D, Chatsworth
Hanekom Ms T, Bloemspruit
Jacobs Ms GT, Prince Alfred Hamlet
Julius Ms CB, Malibu Village
Kruger Ms H, Eversdal
Kwatsha Mr P, Bisho
Lizamore Ms N, Villieria
Madhlala Ms T, Tembisa
Madondo Mr SA, Hilton
Magula Ms X, East London
Mahlangu Mr JB, Witbank
Makhuvha Mr MN, Randburg
Mantshinga Mr M, Butterworth
Mapuko Mr AX, Thembalethu Zone 9
Martin Ms N, Vaalpark
Marupi Ms ME, Musina
Mashiloane Mr SM, Harrismith
Masilela Mr TD, Witbank
Merrick Ms GK, Sydenham
Mgcokola Mr VG, Swartkops Valley
Miggel Ms M, Uitsig
Moalusi Ms L, Randfontein
Modise Ms JK, Vryheid
Mucktoom Ms F, Morningside
Mufamadi Ms A, Mashamba
Mulder Ms HE, Primrose
Ndlela Ms ZP, Pietermaritzburg
Nel Mr B, Durbanville
Oganne Ms S, Bloemandal
Peckham Ms AK, White River
Pieters Ms ET, Porterville
Ramabitsa Ms CM, Kroonstad
Rashe Mr LW, Mapetla
Reynolds Mr H, Goodwood
Setlione Ms Y, Mmabatho
Shoba Mr M, Piet Retief
Smith Ms JA, Despatch
vd Merwe Ms J, Heidelberg
White Mr T, Pretoria North Zondi Ms JP, Hilton

Sterns Giveaway
Rampa Ms PD, eMpumalanga

Sudoku
Kirton Mr DA, Cambridge

Tfg Gift Cards
Boshoff Ms E, Bloemhof
Burger Mr H, Somerset West
Du Plessis Ms J, West Acres
Lingan Ms LL, Qumbu
Lucas Ms J, Colville
Mazaleni Ms LV, New Brighton
Mpeto Mr A, Khayelitsha
Nkosi Ms LP, Tsakane
Rapulane Ms A, Elandsridge
Sebigi Mr PM, Mabopane

Triumph Shapewear
Dingizulu Ms NT, Thabong
Ngoveni Mr RP, Olifantsfontein

You can also enter online at www.tfgclub.co.za
Avoid unclaimed prizes. Simply update your postal address and contact details with TFG. Contact 0860 576 576.

There are few things I enjoy as much as curling up under the covers with a good book – especially when it’s cold and rainy outside. It’s one of my favourite pastimes in winter. A book has the power to enthrall, to transport you to far-off places you might never visit, to make you laugh, to drive you to tears… It’s really unfortunate then that so many people in South Africa (not to mention the world) are unable to enjoy the written word. According to recent stats, almost five million people in our country are illiterate. That is a scary figure. But luckily, there are a number of initiatives aiming to slash that number and promote the importance of literacy. To read more about this issue. Hopefully, it will inspire many of you to encourage someone in your life who is unable to read. And while we’re on the topic of empowerment … we’re introducing a new section in Club: In business. Here we chat to entrepreneurs about the challenges of running their own companies, and ask them to offer advice to those thinking about starting their own venture. We also celebrate Father’s Day this month, so we have everything you need to make him feel special.

Enjoy the issue. Till next month.

R100 000

R30 000
Komani Ms Z, Kentani

R10 000
Modisane Ms SM, Christiana

R5 000
Du Plesis Ms A, Scottsville
Ncwane Ms NL, Umlazi
Sibiya Mr MiI, Madadeni

R2 000
Constantinou Ms M, Libradene
Maako Mr MF, Aerorand
Mbotyeni Ms NA, Mdantsane
Mtshali Mr HT, Pinetown
Reddy Ms M, Weltevredenpark

R1 000
Afrikaner Ms S, Ladismith
Berry Ms LT, Eldorado Park
Dladla Mr Z, Umlazi
Fortuin Mr N, Bontheuwel
Jankeeparsad Ms R, Briardale
Klaaste Ms HJ, Pofadder
Mafuna Ms JR, Gamothiba
Mailane Mr TG, Sharpeville
Malemela Ms F, Boitekong
Maluleke Ms VM, Kagiso 2
Marumo Mr J, Hartswater
Mdana Ms N, East London
Modiokoane Ms MR, Luka
Monco Mr MC, Mandalay
Montweni Ms L, Langa
Mtshweni Ms MD, Cullinan
Nienaber Ms E, Rustenburg
Petersen Ms N, Drostdy Park
Pillay Ms T, Isipingo Beach
Pole Mr AP, Botshabelo
Pretorius Ms EM, Newlands East
Pretorius Ms JP, Valhalla
Rapotu Ms P, Crystal Park
Rhode Ms V, Zwide
Saunders Ms L, Witfield
Semudi Ms CM, Bedelia
Shah Ms T, Bezuidenhout Valley
Slawers Ms HA, Blue Downs
Van Rooyen Ms HP, Rustenburg
Visagie Ms EJ, Steinkopf

R500
Abrahams Mr D, Patensie
Assegaai Ms A, Upington
Bantsijang Ms MD, Mafikeng
Booysen Ms AI, Graaff-Reinet
Botha Ms CB, Huhudi
Brandt Ms VD, Bridgetown
Buthelezi Ms NR, Daveyton
Coertzem Ms M, Vanderbijlpark
Coetzee Mr A, Universitas
Dindikazi Ms PW, Ramsgate
Du Plessis Ms F, Pacaltsdorp
Francis Mr Y, Beacon Valley
Gentswana Ms NP, Civic Park
Gumede Ms Z, Mooi River
Hartzenberg Ms R, Blue Downs
Hlongwane Ms P, Sharpeville
Hopley Mr FL, Bredasdorp
Isaacs Mr WS, Wesbank
Jackson Ms F Mitchell’s Plain
Jantjies Ms M, Forest Village
January Ms FE, KwaNobuhle
Khumalo Ms S, Atteridgeville
Klaaste Mr SH, Lydenburg
Komape Ms MN
Kona Ms B, New Brighton
Koopman Ms N, Citrusdal
Lee Ms D, Bothaville
Maaneke Mr M, Tembisa
Mahlangu Ms M, Lotus Gardens
Mahloko Mr RM, Tshelwaneng
Maigas Ms LA, Daveyton
Mailula Mr SP, Mthatha
Makania Ms J, Shiluvane
Makhwana Ms NE, Ganyesa
Mali Mr M, KwaNobuhle
Malindisa Ms JG, Barberton
Maloisane Ms PG, Bloemfontein
Manankong Ms K, Mothibistad
Maqungo Mr M, Dobsonville Ext 3
Marais Mr RS, Eldorado Park
Masango Ms P, Soshanguve South
Mashabathakga Ms ML, Pretoria
Masina Ms JS, Carolina
Mathe Ms KP, Schweizer-Reneke
Mathibela Ms NH, KwaMhlanga
Mbatha Ms C, Umkomaas
Mbekwa Mr AJ, Kagiso 2
Mcunu Ms M, Orlando West
Michaels Mr L, Peerless Park West
Mnguni Ms AK, Ezakheni
Molendyk Ms A, Die Wilgers
Monama Ms MM, Soshanguve South
Moncolwani Ms MP, Paul Roux
Mongale Ms M, Galeshewe
Monyatsi Mr TM, Sunnyside
Monyatsi Ms HD, Mankurwane
Mosimane Ms F, Tlhabane
Mosula Ms KM, Boksburg
Mpanza Mr AG, Uthokozane
Mpuru Ms M, Smithfield
Mthethwa Ms PG, KwaMhlanga
Mthikrakra Mr L, Strand
Mtshayisa Ms T, Tokoza
Myburgh Ms AE, Ifafi
Naidoo Ms N, Benoni South
Namba Mr M, Khayelitsha
Nedoli Ms GL, Thohoyandou
Nel Ms M, Kabega Park
Ngoetjana Ms KR, Mamelodi East
Ngwenya Ms F, Amajuba Park
Nondabula Mr VI, Secunda
Ntakumba Mr S, Breyten
Phoshoko Ms KG, Joubert Park
Pityana Mr LJ, Cradock
Prins Mr M, Fort Beaufort
Ranthamane Ms AM, Matatiele
Raseroka Ms M, Soshanguve
Rolo Mr ME, Langa
Roman Ms J, Diep River
Schutte Ms M, Albemarle Ext 2
Shabalala Mr JM, Sebokeng
Shandu Mr B, Avoca Hills
Springbok Mr W, Morning Glory
Swart Mr JC, Van Dyk Park
Themba Mr MS, Doornkop
Tiro Mr TW, Dinokana
Tladi Ms E, Morula
Tsamaesi Ms L, Cresta
Tsotetsi Ms IM, Evaton
Tunce Ms NM, Khayelitsha
Van Niekerk Ms HJ, North Riding
Van Rooyen Ms MA, Springbok
Van Schalkwyk Ms M, Heideveld
Vries Ms BM, Rusthof
Waterwitch Mr AM, Dennemere
Williams Ms F, New Tafelsig
Williams Ms G, Riverton Est
Zulu Ms S, Kagiso 1
Zumane Ms MD, Botshabelo
Zuneu Ms PZ, Avoca Hills

R250
Adonis Ms E, Wellington
Andrews Ms E, De Doorns
Bardien Ms Y, Wetton
Bason Ms H, Senekal
Bennie Ms BP, Grahamstown
Browne Mr PH, Waterkloof Ridge
Camagu Ms P, Komani
Canci Ms MM, Carletonville
Cannon Ms A, Korsten
Chakane Ms F, Taung
Chauke Ms CM, Letlhabile
Chilwane Ms BG, Ohrigstad
Chokwe Mr JM, Hammanskraal
Chottu Ms SH, Newcastle
Coko Mr MD, East London
Da Costa Ms MS, Kensington
Daniels Ms HL, Labiance Est
Davids Ms RM, George
Daya Mr MD, Lenasia South
De Klerk Ms C, Edelweiss
De Klerk Ms W, Eden Park
De Kock Ms S, Westville
Dladla Mr T, KwaThema
Dlamini Ms JP, Lindley
Dludlu Mr S, Tembisa
Dooknanan Ms R, South Ridge
Els Ms E, Secunda
Esay Mr R, Bonteheuwel
Faye Ms EM, Hazyview
Fobane Ms JQ, Zastron
Fortuin Mr M, Ceres
Francke Ms A, Parkwood Est
Gcinilizwe Ms EN, Matatiele
Goba Ms JB, Pinetown
Goliath Ms KM, Belhar
Gombiro Ms PL, Ipeleng
Govender Dr R, Woodlands
Govender Ms M, Umkomaas
Groener Ms FG, Westering
Hlalele Mr PM, Marquard
Hlauli Ms AM, Kroonstad
Hlongwa Ms CN, Durban
Hodgson Ms DM, Pinegowrie
Hoorzook Mr N, Lenasia
Jacobs Mr B, Somerset West
Januarie Mr AH, Bonteheuwel
Jele Ms NT, Hillary
Julies Ms DI, Wesbank
Kasebidile Mr DG, Batlharos
Khan Ms S, Isipingo Beach
Khanyile Ms EM, Mooi River
Kirton Mr DA, Cambridge
Kleinhans Ms C, Ashton
Kleinsmith Mr J, Grabouw
Kobi Mr M, Moemaneng
Kock Ms MC, Florianville
Kok Ms J, Wrenchville
Konjwa Mr M, KwaZakhele
Koto Mr SB, Odendaalsrus
Lakay Ms V, Strand
Lalgi Ms P, Actonville
Lamour Mr M, Wesbank
Landsberg Ms J, Douglasdale
Lawerlot Mr JN, Heidedal
Le Roux Ms I, Highbury
Legetho Ms PL, Bochabela
Letlala Ms M, Witsieshoek
Letsoalo Ms C, Tholongwe
Limalia Ms R, Lenasia
Maapola Mr PI, Rebone
Mabala Mr LM, Leslie
Mabika Mr MM, Richards Bay
Madikgetla Mr DP, Bophelong
Madikgetla Ms MJ, Bloemfontein
Madumise Ms M, Kroonstad
Magage Ms LC, Bloemhof
Magagula Ms TD, Steadville
Magqira Ms K, Umtata
Mahlangu Mr A, Randfontein
Mahlokoane Mr MD, Driekop
Mailula Ms ME, Seshego
Maine Mr M, Pretoria
Majombose Mr MJ, Plettenberg Bay
Majoang Ms EM, Botshabelo Makaba Ms B, Mbekweni
Malatji Mr MJ, Hoedspruit
Malema Ms TR, Hammanskraal
Mali Mr KE, Thabazimbi
Maluleke Ms GM, Midrand
Marwana Ms IN, Guguletu
Masethe Ms LN, Musina
Mashego Mr JG, Pilgrim’s Rest
Masiu Ms SJ, Ipelegeng
Masondo Mr NK, Vrede
Matekane Ms GM, Botshabelo
Mathamela Ms LS, Barberton
Mathe Ms SS, Bophelong
Matjeke Ms MM, Philip Nel Park
Matjila Mr WT, Tlhabane
Matsuku Mr J, Freedom Park
Mbewu Mr JY, Mthatha
Mcgrath Ms S, Malmesbury
Mchako Mr P, Carletonville
Mcunu Mr SI, KwaMashu
Mdaka Ms LN, Sunnyside
Mfene Ms R, Witbank
Mhlanga Ms DS, Middelburg
Mkhize Mr SS, Oribi
Mlubi Ms MS, Sebokeng
Mmeko Mr OR, Stilfontein
Mncwabe Mr BL, Pietermaritzburg
Mntambo Mr ML, Sebokeng
Mntambo Ms F, Ndwedwe
Moagi Mr T, Tzaneen
Modise Ms M, Mabopane
Mokgwatlheng Ms M, Letlhabile
Mokhothu Mr RD, Bothaville
Molala Ms M, Magelembe
Moller Ms L, Pretoria
Mongwe Mr A, Krugersdorp
Monyeki Mr AR, Ellisras
Motana Ms MM, Lebowakgomo
Mothibi Ms M, Tembisa
Mpulampula Ms N, Heidelberg
Mthimkhulu Mr BE, Loskop
Mthinto Mr S, Avoca Hills
Murphy Mr F, Toekomsrus
Mvelase Ms KC, Estcourt
Mzazi Ms TA, Queenstown
Naicker Ms I, Bombay Heights
Ndlovu Mr NJ, Embalenhle
Ndlovu Ms TH, Ga-Rankuwa
Ndobeni Ms PP, Umtata
Ndzukula Mr IN, Yellowwood Park
Nekani Mr SN, Kanana
Ngaka Mr RI, Riebeeckstad
Ngceba Ms MN, Idutywa
Ngongoma Ms H, KwaMashu
Ngubane Ms T, Tongaat
Ngubo Mr ZJ, Embalenhle
Nkainkai Mr GC, Flagstaff
Nkeane Ms EN, Rustenburg
Nkofu Ms MM, Howick
Nkosi Mr SB, Birchleigh North
Nojoyi Ms N, Walmer Tsp
Nombela Ms HA, Umlazi
Nthite Ms MP, Mabeskraal
Ntlakane Ms MA, Vanderbijlpark
Ntusikazi Mr S, Port Elizabeth
Olifant Mr M, Simunye Ext 5
Panda Ms GH, Port Elizabeth
Parsons Ms HE, Oudtshoorn
Pastor Ms CK, Summer Greens
Paulsen Mr JB, Eldorado Park Ext 1
Payne Ms C, Meiringspark
Peddie Mr BJ, Steinkopf
Petersen Ms I, Valhalla Park
Petersen Ms M, Goodwood
Phakoe Ms LM, Dagbreek
Phume Ms QL, Jouberton Ext 7
Pienaar Mr FC, Doornpoort
Pieters Ms MD, Wierdapark
Pieterse Mr EA, Rammulotsi
Pillay Mr P, Laudium
Pillay Mr S, Brackenham
Plaatjie Ms RM, Bophelong
Prins Ms CJ, Grabouw
Prinsloo Mr FA, Drie Riviere
Pyon Ms MS, Gerald Smith
Rajchrt Miss CA, North Riding
Ramashala Ms MC, Edleen
Rampedi Ms RG, Mashashane
Sakman Ms B, Queenstown
Sanroman Ms P, Red Hill
Saraji Ms MD, KwaDabeka
Sauls Ms LE, Potchefstroom Camp
Scheffers Mr D, Upington
Schoeman Ms JS, Ikageng
Scholtz Ms E, New Tafelsig
Schroder Ms YA, Sanddrift
Seboko Ms PS, Zamdela
Sebolai Ms GK, Postmasburg
Sefafe Mr T, Phuthanang
Segopa Ms M, Leeudoringstad
Sekete Mr PM, Rammulotsi
Sekete Ms KA, Tembisa
Selela Mr MS, Hammarsdale
Sello Mr M, Ekangala
Sibiko Ms Z, Petsana
Sibuyi Ms JN, White River
Sihoyo-Mcasa Ms VN, Montclaire
Smith Ms L, Diepkloof
Solomons Ms FG, Electric City
Somi Mr CS, King William’s Town
Stanley Ms M, Durban
Swartz Ms CG, Stompneusbaai
Tabete Ms SA, Camperdown
Thomas Ms P, Gelvandale
Tito Ms N, Motherwell
Tsipane Ms M, Phelindaba
Van Biljon Ms N, Vredendal
Van Bloemenstein Ms CB, Kensington
Van der Berg Ms DF, Belhar
Van der Heever Ms SE, Perm Gardens
Van Eck Mr R, Augrabies
Van Zyl Ms CG, Pretoria North
Van Zyl Ms K, Potchefstroom
Visagie Ms FS, Campbell
Vivier Ms V, Harrismith
Vurden Ms A, Tongaat
Ward Ms S, Port Elizabeth
Williams Ms R, Elsiesrivier
Witbooi Mr J, Addo
Xola Ms NV, KwaZakhele
Yalo Mr WZ, Munster
Zibisi Ms AF, Eshowe
Zikali Ms LL, Guguletu
Ziqubu Mr GS, Hammarsdale
Zwana Mr TL, Tongaat
Zwane Ms NM, Vryheid

Mazars, a firm of independent auditors, oversees the conducting of Club competitions. Mazars is an international, integrated and independent organisation, specialising in audit, accounting, tax and advisory services. Get to know them better at www.mazars.co.za.

Winning  Letter – Sheer relief
After I had been  retrenched in 2007, I was forced to say a reluctant farewell to my favourite magazine.
It became a struggle getting new issues from other people, because no one wants to part with valuable assets! However, I was relieved to find out – once I’d found gainful employment – that my account was still active. To my surprise, the first magazine I got was the April issue with the ‘Problem child’ article in it. The feature was informative and came at a time when my grandson had experienced violence at his school, which left him with a broken arm. Thank you Club,I feel privileged to have you back. – Bahiyyah Adams, New Tafelsig

Brighter Tomorrow
I want to thank Club for putting correspondence colleges in the mag. I had to leave university due to financial constraints, but thanks to your mag I was able to do a course through Oxbridge and I’m now about to graduate with my certificate, which will help me better my future. – Pearl Taljard, Johannesburg

Touch Down
Club consistently contains relevant and interesting articles. As a mom of five, I don’t always have time to read, so I appreciate that all the features are concise yet impactful. In the April issue, the articles about bullying, introverts versus extroverts and the importance of having our eyes tested, really struck a nerve. Club is usually so dog-eared by the time it’s passed hands between my family members. Thanks for giving us something to look forward to each month. – Saneeya Adams, Retreat

Present Parent
I had to send my son and daughter to live with their grandmother. When they lived under my roof, my wife and I used the Parent Talk articles in Club as our guide to successful parenting. Since they’ve moved, we receive daily calls from them complaining about the situation. This has taught me that it’s not good to be absent parents and your articles have inspired us to reunite with our children in the  coming year. – James Kubu, Pretoria

Your Club, Your Views
Send your letter along with your Foschini Group account number to Club magazine, PO Box 8145, Roggebaai, 8012 or email club@hsm.co.za

New Recruit
I am a pensioner who received an application to join Club via SMS and thought, why not? My application was approved and when I finally received the mag, I found it incredibly interesting and read it from cover to cover. I loved all your topics, from beauty, entertainment and education to the recipes. Club staff do a great job compiling this enjoyable read. Keep up the great work. – Dorothy Wright, Witbank

You can also submit your letters online: www.tfgclub.co.za

Ciska Thurman

Practical Magic
‘The hardest part about being a divorced dad is no longer having someone to share the responsibility with each day,’ says Harry Bower, father to five-year-old Katie. Task overload occurs when job duties are swiftly replaced by domestic demands – taxiing the kids home from after-school activities, doing the laundry, making supper, helping with homework and so on. There is no respite or chance to recharge for a parent who has to instantly switch from one role to the other. Fatigue and irritability follow, which can ultimately lead to complete parental burnout and problems with effective discipline (possibly giving rise to behavioural problems in the children).

‘Put a routine in place, one where everyone plays a role,’ says Harry. Explain to your kids that, as the sole breadwinner, your work is important but also tiring. Their job is to help you at home – draw up a chores roster and make sure everyone pitches in. Introduce structure: schedule times for meals and bedtime, which will let your kids know what to expect. These parameters are also helpful when a friend or neighbour comes over to babysit. The kids will benefit from a range of responsible adult caregivers, but they also need to learn to take responsibility for their part in maintaining a happy home.

Money, Money, Money
The other practical concern is financial. ‘The difficult task of being the chief family bean-counter can be stressful and lonely,’ says Angela Davies, mom to Connor, three, and Lisa, seven. But enlisting the help of close friends and family can make the world of difference. Try not to allow poor financial management to escalate to a point where it adds to your already-stressful status as a single parent.

Consider an intervention early on. Ask a trusted family member or friend to go through a checklist with you. Research what aid or tax benefits you’re entitled to. Draw up a monthly budget and put measures in place to ensure you spend less than you earn (cancel contracts, avoid debt or switch to cheaper service providers where necessary). Contact agencies you owe money to, such as retailers or the bank, and explain your status – they often provide tailor-made payment plans for single parents. Make sure you have an updated will and testament in place, and try to save, as even a little can make a big difference on special holidays and birthdays.

Feeling The Pressure
Anger, fear and loneliness are only some of the emotions that can very easily overwhelm single parents. ‘I’ll never regret my choice to have a child on my own; it’s what I wanted,’ says Angela. ‘I was prepared for the hard work and financial strain, but what I underestimated was the emotional void that follows a good or bad day. Not having someone to celebrate the milestones with or a co-disciplinarian is tough.’ Angela suggests meeting with other single parents – whether it’s to share hard-ships or trade babysitting hours.

Juggling work and childcare can be socially isolating. You may also worry about the lack of a male or female parental role model for your child. Harry adds, ‘Surround yourself with “givers” and avoid spending time with “takers”.’ In other words, position adult role models in yours and your children’s lives to support rather than judge. Most importantly, remember you’re shaping stronger individuals by demonstrating your own survival skills – one day, your children will look back and realise you are their greatest role model. And finally, ‘building in some alone time to rejuvenate is imperative’, says Harry, who refuels emotionally by going for a long run or listening to his favourite music (not Barney and Friends) for a change.

‘Surround yourself with “givers” and avoid spending time with “takers”.’ In other words, position adult role models in yours and your children’s lives to support rather than judge

Back-Up
Parenting expert Michael Lamb, a psychology professor at the University of Cambridge, sums it up best: ‘What’s important is not whether your children are raised by one or two parents. It’s how good the rela-tionship is and how much support they’re getting from that parent.’

Here are some support systems to consider:

• Neighbours can have your back in an emergency
• Nearby family and friends are good for practical and emotional support
• A support group will help you understand the wider community you’re part of and how to integrate successfully into it.

The fact that you are able to interpret this text means you can read. But almost 4.7 million South Africans over the age of 15 would only be able to look at the pictures in this magazine, as they are totally illiterate. Theirs is a ‘no world’, a term coined by renowned blind and deaf author and educator Helen Keller to describe her experience before she was able to read. Then there is another 4.9 million of our citizens who are trapped in a grey, ‘in between world’. They constitute the semi-literate members of society. But for all of these people, there is hope.

Blame Game
The reasons for these high statistics are as many as they are complex, but poverty, lack of schools, inadequate distribution of textbooks, slipping education standards and the growing school dropout rate are key factors. Some NGOs (non-governmental organisations) say that the statistics would be lower if the government was provided with up-to-date and accurate information to help assess the specific literacy needs of each region. Most reports are two years old, which often results in inaccurate funding allocations to NGOs. The latest Stats SA census, which was released earlier this year, is linked to data from 2011.

The Results of Inaction
Amid finger-pointing between NGOs and the government, the delay in creating a cohesive infrastructure to address illiteracy is taking its toll. A key issue is adults not contributing to the economy, which results in lost tax revenue and creates an extra burden on welfare services. Even though there are some skills, such as bricklaying, that can be taught through demonstration, reading and writing are prerequisite skills for almost all jobs. If someone can’t read, they can’t study – full stop. Another problem is social and political awareness. ‘If we do not have people who can read, write and calculate, how are we to grow our democracy? How are they able to determine if their councillor is representing them fairly, or if they are spending money wisely?’ asks Lin Helme, the executive officer of Share Literacy Project, an adult learning and development initiative in Somerset West.

Never Too Old
‘Many people think that because they dropped out of school, their education is finished. Never! We have as many adults as children who need to complete their education,’ says Lin. Fifty-year-old Johanna de Wee from Bloemfontein turned her life around after she attended an adult basic education and training (ABET) course through literacy organisation Media Works. She was semi-literate when she was forced to drop out of school at 15 to find work and provide for her family.‘I grew up in a family of 11 children and, because my father was illiterate, he couldn’t teach us at home,’ Johanna says. ‘In 1989, I started working for Avbob Industries [suppliers of funeral equipment] as a general worker, but I always knew that I wanted to achieve something better in my life. When the Media Works programme was introduced at the company in 2009, I grabbed the opportunity and, in 2010, I was promoted from a general worker to a receptionist. It allowed me to earn a better salary, which, in turn, assisted me in taking care of my children’s education.’

Use the Resources
There are a number of initiatives aiming to improve the literacy rate. In 2008, the Kha Ri Gude (which means ‘let us learn’) Mass Literacy Campaign was launched through the Department of Basic Education to halve the country’s adult illiteracy rate by 2015. Although some educators have their doubts about the initiative, the campaign’s CEO, Dr Morongwa Ramarumo, is optimistic. ‘We won an outstanding achievement award in 2012 and we reached 2.9 million learners during the five-year period. We will reach our target of 4.7 million learners by 2015,’ she says.

In KwaZulu-Natal (the province with the highest rate of illiteracy), Operation Upgrade has achieved much success since its establishment in 1966. The training manager, Beatrice Mbhele, is particularly proud of traditional healer Alson Sibisi, who was assessed as being totally illiterate before he started classes in 2011. ‘I didn’t know that one day I would be able to read and write my name, use an ATM or read my cash slip with understanding after buying things from the shop,’ says the 66-year-old, who is still attending classes. ‘I so wish that other people who did not get a chance to learn while they were young could have this opportunity. You are never too old to learn,’ he says. Alson now has sufficient writing skills to label his patients’ medicines and can pass on his remedies to his children and future generations.

Begin At The Beginning
Nipping the crisis in the bud at grass-roots (school) level is fundamental to grow literacy. Edna Freinkel, an educator and the founder of Readucate, agrees. ‘The fact that the matric pass rate has dropped to 30% is a clear indication of the government’s non-admitted recognition that the majority of matriculants are incapable of achieving satisfactory standards,’ she says. ‘Many school teachers themselves also have difficulty reading. The government simply isn’t doing enough and we need to bring back teacher training colleges and restore pride in achievement.’ If the commitment and perseverance of educators is supported by the government to help join the dots, it bodes well for reducing future statistics. The glimmer of hope provided in Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan’s 2013/14 budget speech, in which he promised increased funding for NGOs, may help in rewriting the ‘no world’ into a ‘go world’.

‘i wish that other people who did not get a chance to learn while they were young could have this opportunity. You are never too old’

Book Smart
Everyone knows books in South Africa are too expensive. Not only that, but it’s also often really difficult to get the book you want to read or need for your studies. The expense and general lack of access to books means that teachers and learners don’t always have enough educational resources for lessons, and that literacy throughout our population isn’t as good as it should be. But Paperight, an organisation funded by the Shuttleworth Foundation, wants to change that, and bring easy and affordable access to books across SA. How? By allowing photocopy shops and other printing businesses to legally, cheaply and quickly print books.

Founded by publishing entrepreneur Arthur Attwell in 2011, Paperight aims to make it possible for anyone – regardless of where they live or how much money they have – to be able to get all the books they want and need. At time of printing, Paperight has more than 150 outlets throughout SA, offering over 1 500 books from the 45-plus publishers that have signed up. Books on offer include textbooks and study guides, novels, fiction, children’s books, self-study courses (for anything from healthcare to social networking), and the biggest collection of past matric exam papers available anywhere.

In practice, Paperight is simple: a customer at a Paperight-registered copy shop requests the book they want, then the copy shop staff down-loads the book from the Paperight website and prints it out using whatever equipment they have in their store. A licence fee for the book is then deducted from the copy shop’s prepaid credit account and goes to the publisher. The customer pays the licence fee, plus the cost of printing the book. On average, books printed at Paperight outlets are 20% cheaper than their bookstore price, and are more environmentally friendly,  as Paperight books are only printed as they are needed, and don’t need to be transported to where they are bought.

Go to www.paperight.com to browse the library, find your nearest outlet, or to register as a Paperight outlet at no cost.

Useful contacts
www.abeshare.org
www.kharigude.co.za
www.readucate.org
www.mediaworks.co.za

Gemini

Cancer
21 June – 22 July
After the 25th the energies of abundance and magic move into your lounge. Make space to expand and explore. Clear your office space and prepare for new experiences.
Your message Try accepting people exactly as they are.

Leo
3 July – 22 August
If you’re planning an investment, count on luck and instinct to win the big prizes.
Your message Do you know what happens before a big dream comes true? Nothing. So if nothing is happening consider it a sign.

Virgo
23 August – 22 September
You’re in the perfect mood to break away from unhealthy, old attachments and move on to something fabulous. Courage is all you will need. Be willing to embrace change.
Your message You’re a magnet for infinite abundance, unlimited opportunity and divine intelligence.

Libra
23 September – 22 October
Love brings an array of new offers before the 20th. If you’re already taken, be good. Your finances will be stable until the end of the year, so learn how to invest.
Your message Stop searching for love. Invite it in, and it will come
by itself.

Scorpio
23 October – 21 November
There’s a new energy about, and you’re feeling introspective. This is an important time for you, and change is happening faster than even you could anticipate.
Your message The universe is very literal in its interpretations. Be bold and grateful.

Sagittarius
22 November – 21 December
The full power of the cosmos is behind you as career plans continue upward. But there are some toes out there you don’t want to step on, especially after the 27th.
Your message If it’s too hard to have faith in yourself, have faith in the universe.

Capricorn
22 December – 19 January
A dramatic change in your love life is what’s called for. In other words, if you’re ready to leave, do it now.
Your message Thoughts of ‘I want’ are picked up by the universe as ‘I don’t have’. Think: I have.

Aquarius
20 January – 18 February
Keep a door open for opportunities that may make no sense at the time. This is the perfect moment to enrol in a course and expand your skills.
Your message Loving someone is not the same as wanting to live with them.

Pisces
19 February – 20 March
Everyone is dumping their problems on you. See this as a compliment then look at each situation separately and decide whether you can help.
Your message Abundance in all things is your birthright.

Aries
21 March – 19 April
Fidelity has become a foreign word. Your charge is to learn to distinguish between real love and the casual fling.
Your message What you give out is what you get back. If you’re angry, you’ll attract anger. Finding ways to deal with rage helps you stay safe.

Taurus
20 April – 20 May
The new moon on the 8th is offering to fulfil your dreams. Just specify your wishes.
Your message The words loyalty, trust, love and faith will guide you.

Rebekah Kendal takes a closer look at why South Africa is quickly becoming one of the fattest nations in the world

he figures differ slightly from one obesity study to the next, but they all seem to agree on one important detail: South Africans are fat. A 2010 study by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) found that 61% of South Africans are over-weight, obese or morbidly obese. A report from the Centre of Metabolic Medicine and Surgery (2012) found that 66% of women and 33% of men in our country are overweight. And of these overweight individuals, 28% of women and 10% of men are morbidly obese. Alarmed yet? You should be.

City Living
Urban South Africans tend to be fatter than their rural counterparts. According to the Medical Research Council, this is because urbanisation has led to the adoption of a more Westernised diet, which is higher in fat and lower in carbohydrates and fibre than traditional African diets. But it seems that part of the problem lies with our perception of how fat we really are. The GSK study found that only 34% of South Africans consider themselves to be overweight or obese. However, the same study found that 74% of South Africans think that their fellow citizens are overweight. Put simply: we can tell when other people are fat, but develop selective blindness when looking in the mirror.

The big Issue
In South Africa, the fact that being fat is not necessarily regarded as being unhealthy also contributes to the problem. In fact, according to a report by the Medical Research Council, an overweight body type has positive connotations (health, wealth and happiness) within the black African community. A 2012 study by Profmed medical scheme found 78% of obese people and 52% of morbidly obese people thought they were healthy.

In reality, however, obesity is far from healthy. According to general practitioner Dr Rosie Carey, there are multiple health risks associated with this medical condition. ‘Obesity is linked to increased blood pressure, which in turn leads to increased risk of cardiovascular events (stroke or heart attack). It can cause or result from insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, and has been linked to certain cancers, such as colon cancer. Obesity also carries surgical risks: surgery is more complicated, with a higher morbidity and mortality, in obese individuals.’
Gene Pool

It’s not just about the calories you consume. Genetics also has a large role to play in whether or not you develop the condition. ‘Genetics can cause obesity directly, as is the case with genetic syndromes, such as Prader-Willi syndrome. This means that the obesity is a direct result of genetic mutations associated with the syndrome,’ explains Dr Carey. ‘Studies in monozygotic twins have shown that there is a subtle link between genes and obesity. There is a two to eightfold increase in the risk of obesity in people with a family history of the condition, compared to those with no family history of it. The risk also grows with increasing degrees of obesity.’

The Broader Picture
However, Dr Carey cautions that genetics cannot be solely blamed. Living in an obesogenic environ-ment in which food is available all the time and exercise is negligible, as well as little education about healthy eating, all contribute to the problem.

According to Dr Carey, there are also numerous medications, such as anti-depressants, neuroleptics, and anticonvulsants, that can lead to weight gain. In addition to this, certain medical conditions, such
as metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome and diabetes, are linked to obesity.

Fat Traps

• Processed food

‘Fast food is generally high in bad fat (saturated and trans fat) and the portions are bigger than one needs, which could result in higher energy (kilojoule) intake,’ explains dietitian Elienne Horwitz. ‘It’s also usually fried in oil that has been used many times over and is high in sodium.’

• Sugary drinks

‘One 340 ml can of cooldrink, whether it’s carbonated or ice tea, contains nine teaspoons of sugar, which equals two-and-a-half slices of bread in energy. If not burnt, this energy would be stored as fat,’ says Elienne.

• Braais

According to Elienne, the biggest problem when it comes to a braai is that you have plenty of time to gobble up snacks and drinks while you wait for the meat. ‘Some of the meat (such as boerewors and chops) is very high
in fat. For example, 100g of boerewors has 36g of fat. Also, the sides tend to be high in fat and kilojoules, such as garlic bread, potato salad and dressing on salad.’

A Weighty Matter
Luckily, there is an objective measure to tell us whether or not we are chubby or morbidly obese. If you have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of between 25 and 30, you’re overweight. A BMI of between 30 and 40 means that you are obese. A BMI greater than 40 means that you are morbidly obese.

Here’s how to work out yours: Square your height in metres. Divide your weight (in kilos) by your height squared. The answer (22.58) is your BMI.

Weight in kg

(Height in m)2

=  BMI

Example:           60 kg

1.63m x 1.63m

=22.58

MOVIES

White House Down
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Channing Tatum and Maggie Gyllenhaal
Director: Roland Emmerich
Genre: Action drama
John Cale (Tatum) just lost out on his dream job as a Secret Service agent, protecting President James Sawyer (Foxx). To soften the blow of the news on his daughter, he takes
her for a tour of the White House. But on the day, a heavily armed military group seizes presidential headquarters and John has to prove that he has what it takes to save his daughter, the president and his country.

DVD

The Company Men
Starring: Ben Affleck, Tommy Lee Jones and Chris Cooper Director John Wells Genre Drama
Co-workers Bobby Walker (Affleck), Gene McClary (Jones) and Phil Woodward (Cooper) are at the top of their professional game – they earn good money, drive nice cars and have happy families to boot. But their lives take a drastic turn when their company downsizes and retrenches them, and they’re forced to redefine who they are as men, husbands and fathers.

Gambit
Starring Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz and Alan Rickman
Director Michael Hoffman Genre Comedy
British art curator Harry Dean (Firth) sets out to get revenge on his awful, abusive boss, Lionel Shabandar (Rickman), by conning him into buying a fake Monet. To get his cunning scheme to work, Harry employs the help of ditsy Texan rodeo queen PJ Puznowski (Diaz). Will it play out as he hopes or just end in disaster?

MUSIC

Higher – The Overtones
Drawing inspiration from Fifties doo-wop and R&B music, this vocal harmony group burst on to the scene in 2010. Their second album, Higher, sees them shake things up by layering soulful sounds with energetic dance and pop beats. Listen to ‘Higher’ and ‘Loving the Sound’ for an instant mood lift.

Events

The Jive Cape Town Funny Festival
Baxter Theatre, Cape Town
10 June – 7 July
They say laughter is the best medicine and you’ll definitely get an extra-strong dose here. This year’s MC, Alan Committie (of Defending the Caveman fame), will be getting down to serious funny business together with juggler Steve Rawlings, former Cirque du Soleil clown Mooky and a host of top local comedians.
www.computicket.com

Top Gear Festival
Durban
15–16 June
Petrolheads, gear up for the annual Top Gear Festival, presented by Jeremy Clarkson, James May and The Stig. Expect a live stadiu m and street circuit show with local personalities, international drivers and smashes, crashes, special effects and customised cars.
www.topgearfestival.co.za

BOOKS

A French Affair
By Katie Fforde
(Century)
RRP R235
Sisters Sally and Gina inherit their aunt’s stall in an antiques centre in the English countryside. Determined to resurrect the dying establishment, they need the help of the grumpy yet good-looking owner, Matthew, who seems to be growing closer to one of the sisters.

Ghostman
By Roger Hobbs
(Doubleday)
RRP R185
Career criminal Jack Delton fell off the grid after a heist gone wrong. He receives a call from his former boss asking him to recover money he stole from a casino. Mayhem ensues and Jack finds himself on the run, racing against the clock to save himself.