Trending Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/trending/ Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:45:36 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Trending Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/trending/ 32 32 Watch: New Kids on the Block Drop New Single “Kids” After 11-Year Hiatus https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/watch-new-kids-on-the-block-drop-new-single-kids-after-11-year-hiatus/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/watch-new-kids-on-the-block-drop-new-single-kids-after-11-year-hiatus/#respond Wed, 06 Mar 2024 05:45:36 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119681

New Kids on the Block, the iconic boy band, returns with their latest single “Kids” after an 11-year hiatus, promising fans a nostalgic yet fresh musical experience.   Global (06...

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New Kids on the Block, the iconic boy band, returns with their latest single “Kids” after an 11-year hiatus, promising fans a nostalgic yet fresh musical experience.

 

Global (06 March 2024) – New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) fans, rejoice! After an 11-year wait, the iconic boy band from Dorchester, Massachusetts, has announced their return with a brand new album titled “Still Kids,” set to hit the shelves on May 17th.

If you’ve been missing NKOTB’s infectious beats and harmonious tunes, get ready to be thrilled because the wait is finally over!

With a career spanning decades, New Kids on the Block has solidified their place in music history as one of the most influential boy bands of all time. Comprising Jonathan and Jordan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood, NKOTB captured the hearts of millions with their chart-topping hits and electrifying performances.

The excitement surrounding the upcoming album has skyrocketed since the group dropped their lead single, “Kids” 10 hours ago, offering fans a taste of what’s to come.

In a recent statement, Donnie Wahlberg, who co-wrote seven tracks on the album, expressed the group’s enthusiasm for their latest musical endeavour. “It’s the most mature album we’ve ever made,” Wahlberg shared. “Yet it’s the most fun and most comfortable album we’ve ever made.”

The announcement of the new album has sparked a wave of excitement among fans, with social media platforms buzzing with anticipation and heartfelt messages. From reminiscing about cherished memories to expressing gratitude for the band’s enduring presence, the outpouring of love and support for NKOTB is nothing short of inspiring.

One fan shared, “I’ll be 57 this year and can’t believe I got to hear a new NKOTB song and see the video. You guys are still one of the best boy bands ever!”

Another fan reflected on the band’s timeless appeal, writing, “They still got the right stuff even more than 30 years later.” 

While another was excited to still be following them saying, “Man if I could go back and tell my 16 yr old self what an amazing ride this is gonna be! I picked the right band all those years ago. Thank you NK!”

So mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready to embark on a musical journey with New Kids on the Block.

Watch the music video for their new single below:


Sources: New Kids on the Block
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Meet Danie “Pitbull” van Heerden, South Africa’s Power Slap Representative https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/meet-danie-pitbull-van-heerden-south-africas-power-slap-representative/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/meet-danie-pitbull-van-heerden-south-africas-power-slap-representative/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2024 14:00:42 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119653

Danie van Heerden is flying the South African flag on a new fighting stage; he is representing South Africa in Power Slap.   South Africa (05 March 2024) — A...

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Danie van Heerden is flying the South African flag on a new fighting stage; he is representing South Africa in Power Slap.

 

South Africa (05 March 2024) — A fairly new sport is growing in popularity on the global stage. It’s called ‘Power Slap’, and it is pretty much exactly what it states: a competition dedicated to the power of slapping a person. It may not be every person’s cup of tea, and that is okay! We are highlighting the sport as it recently saw the introduction of South African heavyweight Danie van Heerden, who is making a name for himself – fast!

Meet Danie “Pitbull” van Heerden, from Pretoria, who has been competing on the international stage. Flying the South African flag in the hopes of becoming a World Champion. He spent his early career, focussing on boxing and wrestling and has now rejoined the fighting ring as a Power Slap competitor.

Founded by Dana White, the President of UFC, Power Slap has taken the world by storm. Danie shared that he became hooked on the sport after the first match was hosted in South Africa in 2022. Having faced some dark times, tragically losing his father and overcoming suicidal thoughts, Danie has found a passion for Power Slap and is on his way to the top!

“This is sports on a world-class platform and you’re never too old or heavy for anything. I want to prove to myself that whatever I put my mind to, I can and will come out on top.” – Danie van Heerden

Danie popped onto our radar after a TikTok went viral sharing the news about his “Klapping” power. It highlights his booming career so far and what people can look forward to for the year of 2024.

@coolstorybru_ Danie van Heerden is a South African man competing in Power Slap 😂🤣🇿🇦 All the individuals in this video are professionals and are safe! #southafrica #tiktoksouthafrica #tiktoksouthafrica🇿🇦 ♬ original sound – Cool Story Bru! 🇿🇦

How does the sport work?

A coin toss decides which competitor goes first. They are known as the “first striker.” They have 60 seconds to deliver a slap to the opponent’s face. A qualifying slap must be open-handed and land below the eye and above the chin.

There are a few technical points, such as the whole hand must connect with the face at the same time, one cannot lead with the palm first.

The opponents may not flinch, raise shoulders or tuck their chins. They have 60 seconds to recover and return to their standing position otherwise the slap is considered a knockout.

Fights that don’t end in a knockout, go for three rounds and the winner is decided by the judges. They use a 10-point system, with judging based on the effectiveness of the slap, and the slap receivers’ reaction and recovery time.

The sport has faced some serious criticism, and we hear it! It is conducted by trained professionals, and events are carefully managed to ensure the safety of competitors. It is best to leave this sport to the professionals.

We wish Danie all the best in his journey to hopefully become a World Champion! You can follow his progress via Facebook or Instagram.

Danie may be the next South African bringing home a championship belt – so stay tuned!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Danie van Heerden (@daniepitbull)


Sources: Power Slap / Wikipedia / Danie van Heerden – Linked Above
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Waiters Make Birthday Epic with Fun Song and Dance https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/waiters-make-birthday-epic-with-fun-song-and-dance/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/fun/waiters-make-birthday-epic-with-fun-song-and-dance/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:33:24 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119635

Growing up, one can remember spending birthdays at Spur and getting a birthday song; this team really made this birthday song epic.   Kuils River, South Africa (05 March 2024)...

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Growing up, one can remember spending birthdays at Spur and getting a birthday song; this team really made this birthday song epic.

 

Kuils River, South Africa (05 March 2024) – The waiters at the Zevenwacht Spur put on a great performance for someone’s birthday and it is going viral, even now, 10 weeks after it was originally shared.

Sherri Andreas captured the moment while at the restaurant chain and it has left many South Africans reminiscing on the days they got to experience their own birthdays at the franchise. We all have the ear-worm “I don’t know what I’ve been told, but superboy/girl is getting old – don’t you worry, don’t you fear – it only happens once a year! Yo, yo, yo… yeah, yeah, yeah”, living in our brains, just waiting to be reawakened – sorry!

There are actually a few variations of birthday songs from over the past few decades (share your favourite in the comment section).

This new variation is lively and brings all the joy. People have shared that this isn’t a rare performance either, the talented waiteress is known throughout the community for going the extra mile when celebrating a patron’s birthday.

“I totally agree!!!It was my son birthday,and she made his day with her dance moves.,a day he will never forget💯💃🏼😘spur in Zevenwacht’s mall rocks” – @zasjewellery

“Have been there the staff there really love their job. They literally do this to everybody” – @sibusisomakhuvele_

Others said the video gave them the feel-good vibes!

“Give her a huge raise..she deserves it..I felt that vibe just watching the video” – @a_mi01

“Aaah man, I felt like getting into my screen to also clap hands” – @jaffer_enos

Take a look at the birthday performance below:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Visit Cape Town (@visit_capetown_)


Sources: Visit Cape Town – Linked Above
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SA’s Most Anticipated DocuSeries is Coming – The Thabo Bester Story is Enthralling! https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/sas-most-anticipated-docuseries-is-coming-the-thabo-bester-story-is-enthralling/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/sas-most-anticipated-docuseries-is-coming-the-thabo-bester-story-is-enthralling/#respond Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:28:06 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119630

The nation was enthralled when news broke of the Thabo Bester prison break scandal; GroundUp shared that the convicted criminal had not died in a fire as originally reported and...

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The nation was enthralled when news broke of the Thabo Bester prison break scandal; GroundUp shared that the convicted criminal had not died in a fire as originally reported and had, in fact, escaped!

 

South Africa (05 March 2024) – One of the most anticipated docuseries has officially been confirmed and the trailer is here to entice us all! “Tracking Thabo Bester” is the true-crime documentary South Africa has been asking for ever since GroundUp first broke the news that the convicted murderer and rapist did not burn to death in Cell 35 after all and was instead shopping at Woolworths in Sandton City.

Thabo Bester was the most searched person in South Africa on Google in 2023, with his co-accused, Dr Nandipha Magudumana, just behind in fourth place, as the whole country obsessed over Bestermania and the stormy tale of love, murder, deception and corruption. Daily Maverick named them both ‘SA Villain of the Year.’

The larger-than-life story of South Africa’s most famous prison break is in safe hands: Tracking Thabo Bester is being produced by local true-crime pioneers IdeaCandy, the production company behind the SAFTA-winning Devilsdorp, the Sanlam Group Financial Journalist of the Year-winning Steinheist, and the Showmax true-crime record breaker Rosemary’s Hitlist.

The four-part investigation will be screened in two halves on Showmax on the 15th and 22nd of March 2024.

The first episode follows GroundUp journalists Marecia Damons and Daniel Steyn as they investigate an anonymous tip-off that the burnt body at Mangaung Correctional Centre may not have been Bester. Damons and Steyn went on to win the prestigious Nat Nakasa Award and share the Vodacom Journalist of the Year award for breaking the jaw-dropping story and its biggest plot twists. They also co-wrote the bestselling book The Thabo Bester Story: The Facebook Rapist, the Celebrity Doctor and the Escape from Cell 35.

Subsequent episodes look at why Bester was called the Facebook rapist and in jail originally; how a celebrity doctor fell for a convicted criminal and left her children behind to go on the run with him to Tanzania; and who really died in Cell 35.

Interviews include prisoners and prison warders at Mangaung Correctional Centre; the family of Katlego Bereng Mpholo, whose body was found in Cell 35; Nkosinathi Sekeleni, Nandipha’s older brother; and former South African Police Service head profiler Dr Gérard Labuschagne, who interviewed Bester after his 2012 arrest for rape and murder. The documentary also shows the media and social media reactions to the story.

Having earned three SAFTA nominations in the past two years for her work editing Steinheist, Devilsdorp and Murder in Paris, Nikki Comninos made her Showmax Original debut as a director on December’s Convict Conman, which looked at Dawie de Villiers – another South African running a media business from inside jail, where he was also serving time for rape. She’s again at the helm of Tracking Thabo Bester.

“We tend to discuss Thabo Bester like it’s an isolated case but it’s clearly not,” says Comninos. “Bester has been depicted as some kind of anomaly for being able to run a business while incarcerated, but so did Dawie de Villiers – also a convicted rapist who lured his victims online – at a completely different prison. This raises questions about what is happening with the South African prison system.”

The trial of Bester, Magudumana and their co-accused was supposed to begin in the Free State High Court at the end of February but has been postponed to 5 June 2024.

Watch the teaser trailer below:


Sources: Showmax – Supplied
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Meet the Pothole Patrol – The Team Filling the Gaps 200,000 Times Over https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/pothole-patrol-team-johannesburg/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/pothole-patrol-team-johannesburg/#respond Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:00:30 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119581

The Pothole Patrol team have filled over 200,000 potholes since 2021 all thanks to the collaboration of big business and residents of Johannesburg.   South Africa (04 March 2024) –...

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The Pothole Patrol team have filled over 200,000 potholes since 2021 all thanks to the collaboration of big business and residents of Johannesburg.

 

South Africa (04 March 2024) – Living in South Africa means one becomes more than acquainted with the numerous potholes that are found along the daily commute. There are many communities that take matters into their own hands, to combat the worst of the worst. Now there is a new team on the road called the “Pothole Patrol”.

Starting in 2023, 18 people were enrolled in a pilot training programme and it was a huge success. Launching in February this year, students will now be earning an NQF Level 3 qualification after 12 months of practical training and studies. The pilot programme has since seen a further 24 learners enrolled in 2024.

“In its first official year, which kicked off on 1 February 2024, the Academy is providing classroom and on-the job-training to 24 learners through EduWize, an accredited learnership and skills development provider.

Participants are men and women aged 22 to 34 from previously disadvantaged communities and will obtain a National Certificate in Roadworks Construction upon completion. The aim of the programme is to equip participants with road construction skills and the confidence to start their own business one day.”

The programme is being run by Discovery in partnership with various stakeholders. With support from the City of Johannesburg, over 200,000 potholes have been repaired on major Johannesburg roads. The initiative’s initial target was to repair 1,000 potholes a week – which has been exceeded by 25%.

The best part is if you have a pothole in your area (specifically in Johannesburg areas), you can report it for free using the Discovery Pothole Patrol mobile app (available for iOS and Android). You just have to register, and then upload a picture or capture the pothole’s location.

There are parameters to what can be repaired by the Pothole Patrol. The team can only work on potholes measuring a maximum size of 1m by 1m. Anything bigger or deeper than 3cm, has to be handled by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA). However, the Pothole Patrol will escalate the “reinstatements” to the authorities.

“Reinstatements, road excavations, deep trenches or cracks are caused by entities and other service providers, either repairing or installing their services and are not classified as potholes.” – Discovery Pothole Patrol

The efforts of the Pothole Patrol are helping work through the backlog of repairs needed in Johannesburg. Thanks to the collaboration of big business, the city and residents who report potholes, a change is happening!


Sources: Discovery
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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SA Selection A Dream Come True for Hockey Shot Stopper https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/sa-selection-a-dream-come-true-for-hockey-shot-stopper/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/sa-selection-a-dream-come-true-for-hockey-shot-stopper/#respond Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:29 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119589

Hockey goalkeeper Kamva Dyakala is about to have his dream come true, having been selected to play for South Africa at the African Games in Ghana.   Gqeberha, South Africa...

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Hockey goalkeeper Kamva Dyakala is about to have his dream come true, having been selected to play for South Africa at the African Games in Ghana.

 

Gqeberha, South Africa (04 March 2024) – Goalkeeper Kamva Dyakala’s skills on the hockey pitch will come under intense scrutiny when he makes his debut for South Africa this month.

The 22-year-old Madibaz star, who has played for the SA U21s in the past, learnt of his inclusion in the senior team last month.

His selection is the realisation of a dream, to put it mildly.

“Ten-thousand per cent,” was Dyakala response when prompted.

“I think any young aspiring hockey player has dreams of playing for their country in the biggest of competitions,” the Mandela University student, who will compete at the African Games in Ghana starting on March 8, said.

As a member of the national hockey talent squad, he heard rumours that he was in the running.

“I didn’t want to believe it at first, so I just continued training and working on my game because things can change quickly and I didn’t want to get my hopes up.

“Then, when the squad were released, to see my name among the top players in the country was unbelievable. It’s a feeling I can’t explain, to be honest.”

The third-year inventory management student, who grew up in Despatch before moving to Gqeberha, said his and his mom’s joy knew no limits when he arrived home that evening.

“We were both so happy. As soon as I got home, I was jumping around and she was just laughing.”

Dyakala’s development as a shot stopper has not come without lifting a hand.

“At the end of each season, I evaluate myself and look at parts of my game that I can improve,” he explained.

“Since 2022, I’ve tried to remain consistent with my fitness and now I’m also working on my core and plyometrics (short, intense activity).”

Naturally, plenty of work is also being done between the posts. In a departure from previous campaigns, he started working with his coach on the technical aspects of goalkeeping before the season had even started.

Dyakala believed that his hockey IQ, hence his ability to control his area, had developed over the years. Even so, he acknowledged that there was scope for growth.

Consistency proved to be defining for the Madibaz goalie during his ascent of the ranks.

“I say this because not every game is the same. Some are tough and in others you’ll find yourself having the game of your life.

“Having a ‘keeper who is consistent throughout the season is better than one who is hot and cold.

“It’s a lot easier said than done.”

Contrary to what one might expect in a position where it is all about the waiting game, fitness is crucial.

“Your fitness needs to be at an optimum level. The ability to switch on when you’ve been doing nothing for quite a while takes a lot of concentration,” Dyakala said.

“The fitter you are, the longer you are able to concentrate and stay in the game when nothing is happening.”


Sources: RX Radio – Supplied
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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SA Beat NZ at International Masters Cricket Over-40s World Cup https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/sa-beat-nz-at-international-masters-cricket-over-40s-world-cup/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/sport/sa-beat-nz-at-international-masters-cricket-over-40s-world-cup/#respond Mon, 04 Mar 2024 07:59:18 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119564

The men’s over-40 cricket team just won the International Masters Cricket World Cup, beating New Zealand on home turf!   Cape Town, South Africa (04 March 2024) – The inaugural...

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The men’s over-40 cricket team just won the International Masters Cricket World Cup, beating New Zealand on home turf!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (04 March 2024) – The inaugural over-40s International Masters Cricket (IMC) World Cup was hosted in South Africa recently and our incredible home team won, beating New Zealand by 6 wickets!

The IMC hosts tournaments for over 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s teams. The IMC was officially established at an AGM on 6 August 2023, which included members from all 14 member nations. The AGM brought the over-60s and over-70s into the fold, meaning that IMC now covers all four age groups.

Countries involved include major cricket nations like the UK (Wales competes as a stand-alone team), India, Australia, New Zealand, the West Indies and Sri Lanka; other countries also involved include neighbouring Zimbabwe and Namibia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and Canada, and Pakistan.

Over the weekend, Cape Town played host to the Over-40s World Cup and South Africa won the whole thing!

“South Africa have won the IMC Over-40s World Cup, beating New Zealand by 6 wickets in the Grand Final today.

South Africa bowled fantastically to restrict the powerful NZ batting lineup to just 155 (tournament top run-scorer Hardeep Singh hit 55) and then worked their way methodically to the target with about 9 overs to spare. Werner Moolman top-scored with 45 not out.” – International Masters Cricket

“It was a well-deserved win for the hosts, who only suffered one loss during the tournament, to New Zealand in round robin play.

Congratulations to South Africa, and to all the teams that made this a fantastic inaugural Over-40s World Cup!” – International Masters Cricket

Take a look at the moment the team lifted the World Cup below:

You can also catch the full match along with commentary below, in case you missed it!


Sources: IMC (Linked Above)
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News https://www.goodthingsguy.com/opinion/beware-the-illusion-ai-fuelled-deceptions-masquerading-as-news/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/opinion/beware-the-illusion-ai-fuelled-deceptions-masquerading-as-news/#respond Sun, 03 Mar 2024 04:42:37 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119531

Here’s a guide to discerning truth from fiction amidst the flood of AI-fuelled “breaking news,” empowering you with five key strategies to unveil the veil of deceit.   Johannesburg, South...

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Here’s a guide to discerning truth from fiction amidst the flood of AI-fuelled “breaking news,” empowering you with five key strategies to unveil the veil of deceit.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (03 March 2024) – AI-generated content is taking over the internet, blurring the lines between reality and fabrication, and it seems even our most cherished news stories may not be what they seem. Brace yourselves, Good Things Guy family, for the snow in Durban, the sharks in Port Elizabeth, and those jaw-dropping beach sculptures are not as real as some of you once believed.

I can hardly fathom having to relay this message, but it’s a truth we can no longer ignore. Even though some of you may see through AI-generated content, the heartbreaking reality is that countless individuals are falling victim to the allure of fake photos masquerading as sensational “breaking news.”

Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News
An AI-fuelled photo that recently trended with many believing the sculpture was real | Photo Cred: Social Media Screengrab
Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News
The comments section of the photo | Photo Cred: Social Media Screengrab

There are various reasons that motivate the use of AI-generated photos from clickbait tactics to driving more social media engagement (this is usually a big influence), to spreading real misinformation and sometimes it’s all just in the name of fun.

It’s a bitter pill to swallow, but it’s high time we confronted this AI-fuelled digital deception head-on because it can be incredibly problematic should the user not know that the images are, in fact, not breaking news. You see, these ideas then become a person’s belief – where a joke has now evolved to a fact in someone’s mind.

Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News
An AI-fuelled photo that recently trended with many believing the shark was real | Photo Cred: Social Media Screengrab

And yes, we know that distinguishing fact from fiction can be daunting but we’ve put together five telltale signs to help you discern AI-fuelled fabrications:

  • Unrealistic Detail: AI-generated images often exhibit an uncanny level of detail that surpasses reality. Look closely for inconsistencies or hyper-realistic elements that seem too perfect to be true.
  • Lack of Context: Authentic breaking news photographs typically come with accompanying context or corroborating reports. If an image surfaces without supporting information or credible sources, proceed with scepticism.
  • Identical Images: AI algorithms have limitations, leading to the replication of certain features across multiple images. If you stumble upon identical or nearly identical photographs depicting different events, it’s a red flag signalling potential manipulation.
  • Unlikely Scenarios: Trust your instincts when assessing the plausibility of the depicted scenario. Outlandish events or occurrences that defy logic should prompt further investigation into the image’s authenticity.
  • Reverse Image Search: Leverage online tools such as reverse image search engines to trace the origins of the photograph. If the image has been widely circulated or appears across various unrelated contexts, exercise caution before accepting its legitimacy.
Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News
An AI-fuelled photo that recently trended with many believing the sculpture was real | Photo Cred: Social Media Screengrab

It comes down to knowing – when we know better, we do better. And then we can help others too.

How do we do that? Well, if you see an AI-generated piece of “Breaking News”, call it out in the comments so others won’t be fooled. Even if the photos are “just for fun”, help others navigate the AI-generated noise.

And then we can all laugh at the photos together.

Snow on the beaches of Durban. Have you ever? LOL.

Beware the Illusion: AI-Fuelled Deceptions Masquerading as News
An AI-fuelled photo that recently trended with many believing the snow was real | Photo Cred: Social Media Screengrab

Sources: Social Media | Opinion Piece 
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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From Cows to Kittens – How to Curb the Spread of Zoonotic Diseases https://www.goodthingsguy.com/opinion/curbing-zoonotic-diseases-in-sa/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/opinion/curbing-zoonotic-diseases-in-sa/#respond Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:00:25 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119417

The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) shares how pet owners can help curb the spread of Zoonotic Diseases in South Africa.   South Africa (29 February 2024) – Humans and...

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The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) shares how pet owners can help curb the spread of Zoonotic Diseases in South Africa.

 

South Africa (29 February 2024) – Humans and animals share a special and close bond, especially when it comes to our beloved pets and our livestock. But think twice before giving your parakeet an affectionate peck on the beak, letting your dog lick your face or cuddling up with your new kitten until it’s received a clean bill of health from an animal healthcare professional.

Why? Well, your cute pets or farm animals might just be harbouring a zoonotic disease, which is an infection that is transferred between animals and humans. And be aware that there are some diseases that we can transmit to our beloved animals, too.

“The best-known zoonotic disease is rabies, which is transmitted from an infected mammal – usually a dog – to humans, and can be fatal if not treated immediately. So, avoid stray dogs and those exhibiting erratic behaviour,” says Dr Nandipha Ndudane, the president of the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC). Tick bite fever is another well-known zoonotic disease that is prevalent in Southern Africa.

In the home, kittens and puppies can carry ringworm that poses a danger to immunocompromised pet owners. Also, birds such as budgies and parrots can transmit psittacosis – or parrot fever – to humans, resulting in flu-like symptoms or severe pneumonia.

Furthermore, cattle tuberculosis (caused by Mycobacterium bovis) can be transmitted between humans and animals – through unpasteurised milk, infected animal carcasses or meat that hasn’t been cooked properly. Another zoonotic disease is brucellosis, a bacterial infection causing flu-like symptoms that affects not only livestock but also humans who are in contact with infected animals and contaminated animal products or who consume unpasteurised milk from infected livestock. Unlike flu, however, brucellosis can become chronic and debilitating if not diagnosed and treated timeously.

We also need to prevent the spread of disease from humans to animals – for example, human tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) can be transmitted to other mammals, including dogs, cats, livestock and wildlife such as primates. If you have an illness that can affect animals, take special precautions to keep them safe.

Dr Ndudane says it’s imperative for farmers, people who work with animals and members of the public to know more about the close relationship between human, animal and environmental health – also known as “One Health” – to prevent zoonotic diseases from spreading.

The SAVC also hopes to raise awareness about the vital role veterinary and para-veterinary professionals play in curbing disease outbreaks, thereby contributing to public health and food security.

“We urge pet owners to educate themselves about the symptoms of important zoonotic diseases, and mention them to your doctor if you suspect they might be relevant when you are feeling ill. Wash your hands thoroughly after playing with pets or handling animals, and ensure your children do so, too. Clean your pet’s litter box and living quarters regularly. Do not touch or interact with wild animals, as they might be carrying an infection you don’t know about,” advises Dr Ndudane.

Zoonoses also pose an economic threat to farmers – including subsistence, small-scale and emerging farmers – and agricultural workers, making preventative measures vital, says Dr Ndudane.

“Most of our farmers are aware that healthy herds and flocks mean healthy products and profits, but education about animal health and food safety needs to be an ongoing process,” she says. Here, para-veterinary professionals and community animal health workers who are trained in primary animal healthcare can show farmers how to protect their herds through vaccination and other biosecurity measures.

“For anyone working in meat and dairy production, it’s vital to take precautionary measures when handling animals, as well as animal products and by-products. Educate yourself as to what is normal and abnormal animal behaviour so you can recognise when they are unwell, and of course always practise good basic hygiene and wear gloves, masks and overalls.”

Certain animal diseases, such as rabies, are controlled through national legislation. Controlled and notifiable diseases must be reported to the state so that the government veterinary services can intervene to halt an outbreak – and, if it’s a zoonotic disease, prevent a spillover to humans as well.

“It’s important to view the health of humans, animals and the environment as closely interlinked,” says Dr Ndudane. “We need to reassess how human activities are disrupting how we engage with animals and the environment, because new zoonotic diseases are emerging that pose a serious risk to public health.

“For example, the Nipah virus, a zoonotic disease that affects livestock and humans, is thought to have originated because of fruit bats being displaced from their natural forest habitat due to agricultural expansion in Asia.”

She says it’s therefore vital to find a better balance in how humans engage with wildlife, production animals, pets and the environment – because we are dependent on each other for our common health and well-being.

“Most importantly, be switched on and be aware. And remember to take your animals for regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations to ensure their optimal health – and yours. We applaud South Africa’s veterinarians and para-veterinary professionals for rendering a valuable public health service in ensuring our animals are healthy and our food is safe to eat.”

Other zoonotic diseases to be aware of:

  • Rift Valley fever is transmitted mainly via mosquitoes to livestock or to humans (humans can also be exposed to it indirectly through infected animal carcasses)
  • Salmonellosis (caused by the Salmonella bacterium) can be transmitted to humans via contaminated poultry or dairy products, or to workers in contact with infected animals
  • Anthrax is a deadly disease that can be transmitted from infected livestock or wildlife to humans – by law, all cattle have to be vaccinated against anthrax in South Africa
  • Aspergillosis is a fungal disease that can be transmitted to humans, especially those working in animal production, through infected poultry or other birds, including pet birds
  • Q fever is caused by Coxiella burnetii, a bacterium that is transmitted to farmworkers by cattle, sheep and goats
  • Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can be contracted through contact with cat faeces, and is particularly dangerous to pregnant women
  • Cryptosporidiosis is a gastrointestinal condition caused by a parasite living in the intestines of humans and pets, and is spread through contact with infected stools
  • Cat-scratch fever is a bacterial infection that can be passed to humans through a cat scratch or bite
  • The herpes B virus (which often manifests in fever blisters) can be transmitted from macaque monkeys to humans via a bite or a scratch

Useful resources


Sources: South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Watch: South African Teacher’s Incredible Classroom Makeover Goes Viral https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/watch-south-african-teachers-incredible-classroom-makeover-goes-viral/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/lifestyle/watch-south-african-teachers-incredible-classroom-makeover-goes-viral/#respond Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:47:14 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=119392

Undertaking the project entirely on her own, Miss Erasmus poured her own funds and countless hours into the endeavour. From painting the walls, creating posters and sewing new curtains, every...

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Undertaking the project entirely on her own, Miss Erasmus poured her own funds and countless hours into the endeavour. From painting the walls, creating posters and sewing new curtains, every aspect of the makeover bears her personal touch and dedication to creating a nurturing environment for her students.

 

Western Cape, South Africa (29 February 2024) – Miss Erasmus, a dedicated high school teacher, has captured the attention of thousands with her recent classroom transformation.

Through a captivating TikTok video, Miss Erasmus unveiled her remarkable makeover project, highlighting her unwavering commitment to her students and their learning environment.

The video, which has garnered hundreds of thousands of views, offers a glimpse into the remarkable journey undertaken by Miss Erasmus to revitalise her classroom space. What was once a standard room in what looks like a government school now stands as a reflection of her passion for teaching and her students’ well-being.

Undertaking the project entirely on her own, Miss Erasmus poured her own funds and countless hours into the endeavour. From painting the walls, creating posters and sewing new curtains, every aspect of the makeover bears her personal touch and dedication to creating a nurturing environment for her students.

The video was only posted two days ago but has already seen an outpouring of support and admiration flooding the comments section, echoing sentiments of appreciation and gratitude for South African educators like Miss Erasmus.

Comments poured in, praising her selfless efforts and recognizing the invaluable role teachers play in shaping young minds:

“South African Teachers are not appreciated enough! Well done. This is amazing work.”

“I love this, Thank you for the effort you put into this project, I hope your learners appreciate you and your classroom!”

“Wow, you guys deserve medals everyday, there needs to be a way to be reimburse all teachers honestly.”

“Dancing for excitement of small things is what life is about. Well done for doing effort to make your classroom a memorable space for the kids.”

Indeed, Miss Erasmus’s commitment to creating a vibrant and conducive learning environment reflects the tireless efforts of teachers everywhere who go above and beyond to enrich the lives of their students. In a simple TikTok video, she has sparked a wave of appreciation and gratitude, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for education in South Africa and beyond.

Watch it below:

@miss_erasmus1 Classroom makeover🩷 #SAMA28 #teacher #teachersoftiktok #highschoolteacher #classroom #classroommakeover #tiktoksouthafrica #southafrica #foryoupage #capetown ♬ original sound – Miss Erasmus


Sources: TikTok | Miss Erasmus 
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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