 Deputy President, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and her husband, visited the Champagne Studio on the 24 th July. Her arrival by helicopter was applauded by the Ardmore community, who sang a message of Zulu welcome . The Deputy President met all members of the Ardmore community including the mother of Bonnie Ntshalalsthali and Bonnie's son Senzo. After being served with tea and hosted by Moses Nqubuka, the Deputy President walked through the studio and observed the artists at work, often commenting on the detail to which the artists worked.
 The
gallery was too much of an opportunity to miss! Madam Deputy President enjoyed
choosing three pieces which she said would be used for official gifts by her
office for visiting dignitaries. Those who happened to be in the gallery buying
or just observing welcomed the opportunity to wish Deputy President Mrs. Mlango-Ngcuka
great success in her new portfolio. Singing from the community and dancing by
the young teenage "warriors" led the Deputy President to respond by joining in
the dance and answering "the challenge" by giving a money donation to the
warriors.
 Before leaving, the Deputy President was given a file presentation
of the Ardmore Excellence Fund and an explanation as to its intent. On subsequent
communications with Alan McGregor, she has asked to be kept informed of outcomes
and has offered to assist where ever she or her office might help.
After a visit
of an hour and a half, the helicopter took off, enjoyed by those who witnessed
and felt, a really warm, friendly and interested, new Deputy President.
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