JANUARY 2023 ISSUE 216
Gran Alacant Advertiser continues to bring you all the local NEWS including information from the local Town Hall representative. Working for the local community since May 2005.
If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please email on info@granalacantadvertiser.com
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM OUR GA COUNCILLOR OSCAR VALENZUELA
Hello everyone
I did not want to miss the opportunity to wish you all a very Happy New Year 2023.
In addition, I wanted to let you know that in the coming months you will see most of the projects that we have started in recent years come to fruition.
As I promised at the beginning of the legislature, in health, infrastructure, coverage, education, sports, security and cleanliness.
I want to personally thank you for your continued trust and support. Thanks to you, we are making Gran Alacant a better place to live and work.
Your friend and neighbour Oscar Pedro Valenzuela Councillor of Gran Alacant
PROGRESS REPORT 2022 • GA Council Creation. Direct and continuous contact with the GA Neighborhood Association.
EDUCATION
• Road project for GA College • Preparation of specifications for the • IES GA tender. Since, finally, the delegation of powers by the Ministry was authorized • Cleaning contract for Colegio V. Ruso
HEALTH • GA health center expansion project
Transfer and conditioning of new facilities for Social Services in GA (Zona Life Resort)
SECURITY
• Police checkpoint bidding started in GA
cameras in the most conflictive
areas of GA.
INFRASTRUCTURES
• Installation of Remote Reading for GA
system to detect excessive water consumption in communities in real time)
Asphalted project for GA. It consists of two phases between 2022 and 2023
Channeling Avda Noruega for drainage
Antenna installation to provide coverage to the entire upper area of GA (Lower part in negotiations) • GA post office reform - Adequacy building and access
Recharge points in GA
PARKS-GARDENS AND CLEANING
• New cleaning specifications where GA will be taken into account (including Ecoparque)
• GA Specific Maintenance and Gardening Crew
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• Security
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• Reform of the fence and conditioning of the Clot area
• Canine park conditioning
SPORTS
• Finishing project soccer field 8.
• Sports center reform
• Boiler and shower repair
• Ball guard
• Reform paddle tennis courts
• 3x3 basketball court
• Calisthenics facilities project
PARTIES
• Creation of the GA Fiestas Commission in collaboration with the Fiestas y Comercio and GA councilors.
OTHER
• Creation of a fixed administrative position for GA with languages
• Registration campaigns
LATEST NEWS FROM THE GA COUNCILLOR OSCAR VALENZUELA
FOOTBALL PITCH
The Santa Pola City Council has awarded the project for the new 8-a-side soccer field at the Gran Alacant Sports Centre, at a total cost of 387 000 euros and a completion period of 8 months.
The company INVOLUCRA has been awarded the contract for this. The Department of Sports has planned the location of the playing field so that in the future an 11-a-side soccer field can be built.
LARGE ITEMS COLLECTIONS
Tuesdays and Thursdays ONLY.
Please Whatsapp only this number any day of the week to let them know the name of the street you are leaving your large items on.
This would help to make the service more efficient and keep our Gran Alacant nice and tidy.
The councillor for the area, Julio Baeza, indicates, “We continue working on the provision of new sports facilities in Santa Pola. In addition, specifically, in Gran Alacant, we have already installed the basketball court and now this 8-a-side football field that we hope can be up and running in the first half of 2023”.
The councilor for Gran Alacant, Oscar Valenzuela, stresses, “we continue to make progress in providing services for Gran Alacant. Little by little, we are providing the area with more infrastructure to improve the quality of life of the residents. This soccer field was a facility that was in great demand, especially by the parents of the little ones who practiced this sport”.
SCHOOL DEVELOPMENTS
The Valencian Generalitat has promised Santa Pola to start the works on the second school of Gran Alacant at the end of January.
Recently, in Alicante, the Mayor of Santa Pola, Loreto Serrano and the Councillor of
Education, Trini Ortiz held a meeting to follow up on the educational needs of Santa Pola with the Territorial Director of Education, David Vento and the inspectors of Education.
Councillor Oscar Valenzuela said, “This is great news for the neighbourhood that the construction of the second school will finally begin at the end of January.”
POST OFFICE ONGOING SAGA
customer service conditions at the Gran Alacant office.
The building work was completed months ago. However, Correos has not yet acquired the furniture or extended the opening hours to the public as promised.
The Santa Pola City Council has demanded that Correos fulfill its commitment made in April to extend opening hours and improve
Councillor Oscar Valenzuela said, “We continue to call on the post offices to do their part and give us a minimally adequate service. I have visited the Post Office several times as a user and I see that the computer rarely works, which slows down the service even more.”
ASPETGA EVENT
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The non-profit organisation welcomed pet food and cash donations to help needy families in Gran Alacant and Santa Pola.
Special thanks was given to GA Properties and Astro Networks for organising a visit from Santa Claus to take photos with the pets.
The charity thanked Councillor Oscar Valenzuela and Jose Luis, President of Neighbouring Communities of Gran Alacant, respectively for their support.
Councillor Oscar Valenzuela said, “We had a great time at the ASPETGA Santa event in Gran Alacant. These initiatives help build community relations”.
Many local businesses helped support the charity with vouchers, gifts and donations.
fundraiser event to support ASPETGA pet food bank took place on Saturday 10 December at Molly Malones.
RASTRO MARKET OF GRAN ALACANT RETURNS
The charity second-hand market returned to Gran Alacant on Sunday 11 December thanks to the Association of Neighbours.
This market will take place every Sunday from 9am to 2pm at the Market Venue at Avda. Escandinavia.
There are many free places. If you would like to sign up please go to: vecinosgranalacant.com/ mercadillo to book your place.
NEW SCHOOL
Construction is due to start at the end of January 2023 for the new school in Gran Alacant.
There will be 9 preschool classrooms, 3 first grade kindergarten classrooms, 18 elementary classrooms and dining room for 2 shifts of 270 people per shift. There will also be the construction of a gym and locker rooms.
For more information and to see the plans for the new school http://www. periodicosantapola.es/actualidad/article/asi-sera-el-nuevo-colegio-de-gran-alacant
FESTIVE ACTIVITIES AT GA
Local residents enjoyed some festive fun at Centro Commercial during the month of December.
Councillor Loreto Serrano said, “Gran Alacant has more life than ever. It is wonderful to see so many residents turn up every time an event is organised by Santa Pola City Council or other organisers. I want to thank Oscar for the great work he is doing at the head of this important and necessary council.
NEW POLICE STATION
Santa Pola Town Hall announces the start of the tender procedure for a Local Police Office in GA.
The space will be 80 meters with a public attention zone and administrative space. The location will be next to Centro Commercial. The new police station will be put out to tender for 118,000 euros.
CAN
READER’S EMAILS
GRAN ALACANT INSURANCES
Hi all
We would like to express our thanks to Gran Alacant Insurances (page 41). We recently had a burst main water pipe and the help and service they offered extended beyond our expectations. They took control of the situation, organised the repair and sorted the documentation with the water authority without any prompting from us.
To be clear we do not have any personal connection with the company. We went with them because they offered a better price than the bank and we will never go to another insurance company in Spain. Gran Alacant Insurances cover all aspects of insurance. Anyone looking for a good quote with exceptional service, this is the company for you!
Regards
Danny and Jacky Roberts
Q: Calle Belgica
I would like to thank Ria for contacting you. December issue. We live in Calle Belgica, past the park.
Cars speed along past the park all the time. I have seen a cat killed and left.
It’s a nightmare getting out of our drive way. I also have to keep my dog on a tight lead. Speed bumps are by schools why not by parks, where children play?
Do we have to wait for a bad accident before they will put speed bumps in?
Regards Wendy
Rastro Market
I see the Rastro has reopened every Sunday 9-2 pm I thought you could advertise this in the next addition of the magazine so we can get it back busy like it used to be. Thanks Michele
If you would like to supply news or info for our next edition, or have a question for Gran Alacant Councillor Oscar Pedro Valenzuela, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com
HOW CAN A FOREIGN RESIDENT IN SPAIN VOTE?
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WHO
VOTE? Nationals of countries with agreements for municipal elections (United Kingdom, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Chile, Columbia, Korea, Ecuador, Iceland, Norway, New Zealand, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago) DEADLINE FOR REGISTERING ON THE ELECTORAL ROLL: For EU Citizens 30 January 2023 For Citizens of countries with agreement from 1 December to 15 January 2023 YOU NEED TO FIT THE BILL:
18+ years old
Be regularized
Not be deprived of the right to vote • Be resident in Spain and be registered in the town hall of your domicile • Have expressed the intention to vote and be registered in the Electoral Census For more information https://sede.ine.gob.es/
POLICÍA LOCAL DE SANTA POLA POLICE NEWS
ROUNDABOUT FRAUD
For the last several years Santa Pola police have been investigating criminal activity on roundabouts.
roundabout in the inner lane, with the latter being responsible for the accident. The main target for these crimes were older victims or single women.
In total 56 people causing 67 accidents receiving a total of 123 claims with nearly half a million euros paid out in compensation.
Originally designed to alleviate traffic congestion, roundabouts in Spain have been shown to actually increase delays. The theory is not that complicated and local police have recommended that you always use the outer lane of the roundabout so you do not fall victim to such a crime.
OUTSIDE LANE: This is the lane a driver should use when leaving the roundabout. In addition, motorists should move to the outside lane if they are going to take the 1st or 2nd exit.
The modus operandi of the criminals was to drive in the outer lane of the roundabouts and accelerate when a vehicle exited the
INSIDE LANES: Motorists should use the inside lanes if they are taking the 3rd or subsequent exits or if the need to re-circle the roundabout. When a driver’s exit arrives, they should progressively merge into the outer lane. If this isn’t possible, drivers are supposed to go round and try again.
The driver should never attempt to exit the roundabout directly fron an interior lane.
PLAZA MAYOR
PLAZA MAYOR
Book of the month by
Beth
Beth worked as a Qualified Librarian in Aberdeen for 20 years. She loves reading and delights in finding exciting new authors as well as reverting back to favourite writers of all genres. Beth has lived in Gran Alacant for the last 15 years.
1944 Italy, as bombs fall around them, 2 strangers meet in the ruined wine cellar of a Tuscany villa and share an extraordinary evening.
Ulysses Temper is a young British soldier. Evelyn Skinner is a 64 year old art historian living life on her own terms. She has come to salvage paintings from the wreckage of war and relive memories of her youth when her heart was stolen by an Italian maid. Ulysses’ chance encounter with Evelyn will transform his life and all those who love him back home in London – forever.
After returning to London, friends and family, his life does not proceed as he had hoped. He decides to move to Florence and create a new life for himself. A life that introduces the reader to new friends and relationships but also involves old friends and relationships.
This delightful book is uplifting and full of unforgettable characters a novel about beauty, love, family and friendship.
NEXT BOOK CLUB MEETING Wednesday 25 January 2pm, Skipper Bar MASA Square We meet up once a month, discuss the books we are reading now and suggest new ones. Anyone interested in joining us or looking for more information please contact Beth on Whatsapp +44 7853 363060 PLAZA MAYOR CWW Electrical Services Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel: 617 872 405 *** Contact Clive or Wendy
In this new year I want to give you the opportunity to read one of my favourite books of 2022 My
Recommended Book of the Month Sarah Winman Still Life
PLAZA MAYOR
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PLAZA MAYOR
MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB
Sponsored by The Pub, Gran Alacant Insurances, Dialprix, The Belfry, Sunrise Builders,The Chippy and Dunbars.
Happy New Year 2023 from Montemar Bowls Club
FUN DAY
Saturday 28th January 2023
No need to be a bowler – you are invited to try your luck at the above event and have some fun.
There will be six different challenges in each round. Help and advice will be available, as well as shoes and bowls.
It will be 2 euro per round or 3 rounds for 5 euro – no restrictions on the number of rounds you can play. We would love to meet you so please come along any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm.
SHOPPING TRIP
On November 15th we had our annual shopping trip to La Zenia. After shopping we met for pre lunch drinks before leaving for La Cosecha restaurant. As usual the food and service at La Cosecha was excellent, another successful day enjoyed by all. Thank you to the ladies on the social committee.
RACE AFTERNOON
Monte Mar Bowls Club members had a very enjoyable horse race afternoon at Dunbars on the afternoon of 17th November. A very big thank you to Dave and Mandy and their team for a very good meal and service. Thanks to Kevin and Tony for providing the Racing, winners or not we all had a great afternoon. Thanks Dave for your donation to the club.
CHICKEN RUN
On November 27th the monthly chicken run was well attended by twenty four members. The chickens were won by Diane Horsington with thirty shots and Howie Williams with thirty three shots well done to you both. The eggs were won by Tanya Oliver and Jim Shearing. Thank you to Des and John Freeman who donated the chickens and Julia and Ian Hamilton who donated the eggs, with the help of their chickens. The football card was won by Lynne Armitage with Swindon.
XMAS SING-A-LONG
This year the Gran Alacant Singers joined us at the Rincon Restaurant for our Xmas singalong. The sing along was well led by Diane and Cindy. We sang a number of carols when we sang the Twelve Days of Christmas each group had a day and the actions they had to do when it was their day, all good fun!! The Gran Alacant Singers sang a few carols, then we all enjoyed a buffet. It was a lovely afternoon.
PORTICO MAR
This year’s pre Xmas lunch at Portico Mar was attended by fifty four bowlers and social members, a good time was had by all!! After a very enjoyable lunch, Chris and Sue did the Xmas raffle, thank you to all who took part. The hampers were won by Des Freeman, Ronnie Cairns and Diane Wilkinson well done to all.
For further information about Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club check out our website www.montemarbowls.com or email us at info@montemarbowls.com We are also on Facebook
CARABASSI CENTRE
CARABASSI CENTRE
Fundraising in Gran Alacant ...
You can find ALL photos on www.granalacantadvertiser.com or our FB page
ASPETGA Raised almost 400€
ASPETGA's "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" event Raised Nearly 400 euros for their pet food bank!
Thank you to all of our friends, neighbours, and donors who helped ASPETGA with our Santa Claus meet and greet event at Molly Malone's Irish Pub.
We've raised almost 400 euros thanks to you and your generosity! Economic pressure is the leading cause of pet abandonment. The loss of a job or home often leads to people surrendering a beloved pet to the shelter, a heartbreaking situation. The unlucky ones are simply dumped on the streets. These funds will allow us to help more needy families in Santa Pola and Gran Alacant and to help keep those families together.
A big thank you to our hosts at Molly Malone's for letting us take over their pub for the afternoon and to our sponsors Gran Alacant Properties and Astro Networks Gran Alacant TV for their time and effort to organise the event.
We also want to thank the local businesses who generously donated prizes to the raffle: La Galguita Amelie, CCV Amoros, Cueva del Arte, El Cookie, Gus Peluquero Canino, Laico, MAVI JJ, Mundo Animal, Nakama, Retratos Natalia, Rio Seco Naranjas Selectas & Vida Animal
This Christmas, don't forget to support your local businesses!
Thanks to Mayor Loreto Serrano for stopping by to say hello and take a selfie with Santa Claus and to Town Councilor Oscar Valenzuela, councilor for Gran Alacant, who joined us along with his family and their lovely pup. Thank you for your support!
Until next year! Santa reminds you to avoid the naughty list and to stay on the nice list!
Happy New Year to all!
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We take many photos “Out & About” in Gran Alacant but can only include a selection
selection in our magazine. You can find ALL photos on our FB, Instagram & Website
The Lowedown
with Lynne INTERVIEW with
Lillian Goldsbrough
Hi, my name is Lynne and I have been lucky to call Gran Alacant home for the last 6 years. People fascinate me and I love to hear about their adventures and life stories. Over the next few months, I will be sharing some interviews with GA’s very own Superstars!
This month’s interview is with Lillian Goldsbrough. Originally, from Sydney, Australia Lillian came to Spain for the first time in 1968.
HELLO LILLIAN, CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT YOUR FAMILY
“I married an Interior Designer and Painter from Madrid and we had 3 children. My eldest was made in Spain and born in Australia and my youngest was made in Australia and born in Spain. My daughter is married and lives in Madrid. She has a very talented 11-year-old daughter who has starred on stage in the musicals Annie and Matilda. My eldest son lives in Madrid and runs his own business academy. He and his wife have a daughter 19 and son 13. My youngest is the creative genius of our family and is at University studying Sound Imaging and Composing.”Lillian’s grandchildren call her Nonna (Italian for Gran).
WHAT DID YOU DO WHEN YOU WERE WORKING?
“I trained as a nurse and worked in public then military nursing during the Vietnam War.” Whilst in the military Lillian also went on to study dental nursing.
Lillian decided to travel for 2 years at a very young age. She left Australia on a ship that took 5 ½ weeks to get to Southampton. During her travels, she visited New Zealand, Tahiti, Mexico, and Portugal. Her favourite place was Acapulco, which she described as “a real eye opener”. Lillian explained, “I watched tiny tots painting souvenirs on the streets to earn a living. It was such a humbling experience for me.
I had lived a very sheltered life within a loving and protective family. I felt like a
different person returning from my travels. Stronger, better and grateful for the experience.”
Whilst in Spain Lillian worked selling magazine subscriptions direct to directors of companies. This is how she met her husband. When the family moved to Australia in 1971, she was not permitted to return to military nursing as a married woman so went on to do teaching, which she did until the family returned to Spain in 1984.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO GA?
“I came to GA on my own when I retired in 2011. I liked the thought of living in a warmer coastal area with longer springs and autumns. The links to the airport and train were also a big advantage for me. We used to have a holiday apartment in Torrevieja, I had also lived in Alicante City for a while, but I missed having outside space. GA has everything I need, I enjoy living here. I appreciate all my friends and
I have a happy life balance.”
LILLIAN, WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING?
“I love walking. I get great pleasure exploring, whether it is my new home Spain or old home Australia and
anywhere in between. I love architecture, old and new, modern art and traditional. I love exploring big cities, ancient villages, nature, climbing and taking risks.”
Lillian is a member of the English book club, Spanish book club, pétanque group, singing group, 2 walking clubs, French class once a week and the ladies lunch group. She speaks English, Spanish, French and Italian.
WHAT HAS BEEN SOME OF YOUR HIGHLIGHTS ON YOUR TRAVELS?
“I once went on safari where the jeep broke down at nightfall. The guide was terrified. We had to walk around 40 minutes with the danger of the wild animals finding us. I have flown over the Gran Canyon, I have run with the bulls in Pamplona at the San Fermin’s festival and I have walked on a hanging walkway around a mountain. El Camino Del Rey was also a memorable experience for me.”
Lillian tells me about her passion for travel. In the last 8 years, she has been fortunate enough to visit Europe on 5 cruises and she has been around the world 5 times! After Covid lockdown, she promised herself that she would visit a different part of Spain 1 week out of every month.
I ask Lillian if there are any countries left on her ‘Bucket List’. She surprises me by telling me she has always wanted to go to Greece but has not been yet.
LILLIAN,
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
“I am a fruit salad. I am quite shy and studious, but I can also be a bit crazy and daring.”
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
“I enjoy listening to choirs, opera, jazz, rock and rap. I love people watching. I volunteer with SAT, Spanish Cancer Association and National Food Bank to keep me on my toes!”
The first time I met Lillian was at an Aqua Aerobics class at Santara Resort. I used to hate teaching Aqua. She kindly gave me some constructive feedback on how I could improve as an Aqua Instructor and now I love teaching it. After the indoor swimming pool closed down, Lillian helped me find a new venue for outdoor Aqua classes. I asked her to be my translator at a meeting with Bernar, a new Spanish venue owner at the time. During the meeting, she impressed me so much with her confidence, likeability and energy. I am very grateful to Lillian; thanks to her, I now teach from Bernar’s Place and have met so many wonderful people over the years because of it.
Thank you for your beautiful energy, zest for life, positivity and kind heart Lillian.
SANTARA RESORT
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Symbol of
confidence WE ARE THE ONLY API REGISTERED AGENT IN GRAN ALACANT
ZEST BAR raised 530€ for ECCH in the run up to Christmas with raffles and fundraising events. Thanks to everyone who donated toiletries and gifts and also to Sharon and Mandy for donations from selling items on their craft stall.
Big thanks to the Gran Alacant Singers
ZEST RAISED 530€ for Elche Children’s Home
SIERRA MAR
GALS - GRAN ALACANT LADIES UPDATE
Saturday 26th November saw the Gran Alacant Ladies host a fundraising Christmas Fayre in aid of SAT Animal Rescue. The event was held at the Sueno Azul Restaurant Avenida Mediterraneo in glorious sunshine and beneath beautiful blue skies. SAT has been the chosen charity of the group for the past year with donations being collected through raffles at social lunches each month.
Fundraising lead Claire Williams says “our members are asked to identify chosen local charities each year and are then asked to vote for one to be our nominated charity for the year. SAT was the chosen charity for 2022 and we are currently in the process of accepting nominations for our new charity for 2023. Our own members created most of the items for the Christmas Fayre as they are an extremely talented bunch of individuals. The Christmas Fayre alone raised in excess of 750 euros for the charity and our grand total for the year looks to be in excess of 1,500 euros.”
Fundraising is just one of the many activities under the wide umbrella of the GALs group. Monthly lunches, coffee mornings, weekly walks, craft sessions and days out form part of the community set up primarily as a support network for ladies of all backgrounds and nationalities living in and around Gran Alacant.
Anyone interested in joining the group can do so by following the link below and answering 3 simple questions about their links with Gran Alacant.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/734916743616271
CHRISTMAS FAYRE RAISED 750€ FOR SAT
GALS
ANIMAL CHARITY
SIERRA MAR
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Water, water everywhere
A drive inland from Alicante is an area of great beauty and history; Tibi. This craggy district was formerly the boundary between the kingdoms of Aragon and Castille and is still a linguistic watershed between Castilian Spanish and Valenciano speakers. Its even earlier history is marked by the Islamic period castle whose remains can still be seen perched atop a rocky hillside. Our visit to Tibi was however not to visit the castle or to practise the local languages. Our visit was to see one of the earliest fresh water reservoirs still in use anywhere in Europe.
The Reservoir of Tibi was formed between 1579 and 1594 by the construction of a masonry dam across the path of the Monegre River at a point 2 kilometres south of the town of Tibi. The creation of the reservoir was ordered by King Felipe the Second. The reservoir was designed to provide reliable water supplies to the agricultural land surrounding Alicante known as the Horta d’Alacant. It still fulfils that function over 400 years later!
We visited the public viewing point that is signposted in the area; driving through spectacular landscape along an increasingly rural lane. We arrived at a spit of land jutting out over the reservoir where the flooded valley bends, thus affording views along both limbs of the watercourse. The lush greenery of the surrounding hills is deceptive - one is only a stone’s throw from the parched coastline. The calm waters are also somewhat misleading, Spain is a land of alternating drought and flood, most Spanish rivers have the ability to turn into
destructive torrents after heavy rainfall or seasonal snowmelt. The Tibi reservoir itself was partly damaged in 1697 after flooding; a spillway had to be constructed to allow surplus water to be safely drained from the reservoir.
Conserving and managing precious water has been part of Iberian life for centuries. The Romans built the monumental aqueducts, most famously at Segovia, that allowed their great cities to rise on this peninsula. The Moorish peoples famously used their water management skills to create lush gardens and plantations, even in the arid regions of modern day Andalucia. Spanish rulers, especially dictators such as Primo de Rivera, celebrated their creation of reservoirs as evidence of their supposedly beneficial rule. Water remains a source of conflict in contemporary Spain: Our visit last year to the beautiful Ebro River region of Tarragona included seeing huge banners
us on Instagram: juanruano.oficial & archiemaddan
Water can also be a force for destruction and chaos. As we write this article, parts of Western Spain are experiencing serious flooding with heartbreaking scenes on television of people forced from their homes as everything they possess is destroyed by uncontrollable waters. Spanish cities built around rivers, such as Elche, have high embankments and deep channels to protect the city on the occasions when a shallow stream turns into a monster.
All Spaniards know the history of Valencia’s terrible flood in 1957. The reaction to that flooding of Valencia was to divert the Turia River under the Plan Sur and on the former river bed create the famous linea park that is such a wonderful feature of Valencia today. Big flood relief provisions are now routinely part of Spanish urban planning. Next time you visit San Juan Playa take a little time to examine the La Marjal park which is designed to be floodable to absorb flood water from upstream flows and thereby protect the urban areas of San Juan Playa. It is possible to take guided tours of the park organised by the local water company: https://www.aguasdealicante.es/en/ parque-urbano-inundable-la-marjal
As climate change increasingly disrupts our world, causing new imbalances in the patterns of rainfall and drought, we will have to develop measures to conserve freshwater and also to protect ourselves from nature’s power. The world would do well to learn from the peoples of the Iberian peninsula who have always lived with this dilemma. They have learned to respect water and have suffered when they took it for granted, we would all do well to respect our water in the years ahead. We invite you to visit Valencia, San Juan or Tibi to see the products of this watery feature of Spanish life.
paid for by local councils demonstrating their objection to the transfer of River Ebro water to feed southern Spain’s agriculture and tourism.
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TOMMY’S Christmas Sing-along raised 92€ for Paul Eady
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DUNBARS RAISED 150€ FOR SATs & STILL COUNTING ...
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Have you rescued a pet within the last 6 months ?
We at the Pet Hotel want to show our appreciation to all the wonderful people that have rescued a pet within the last 6 months with a €50 GIFT VOUCHER.
This voucher can be used for boarding, day care services or a wellness bath at our premises.
We know that all rescued animals deserve to have the best and want to help all the new owners that have opened their arms and hearts and welcomed a new pet into
their families. What better way to show them they are loved than with a refreshing bath and a relaxing pamper session.
Please contact us to receive your voucher and discuss how you want to use it.
We warmly welcome as well Dogs and Cats with Handicap and pets they need a special care.
Caniresort Domino Costa Blanca offers a full 24 hours service for you pet and a very professional team.
SANTA POLA
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CLINICA VETERINARIA
GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS
Calle Holanda 9, MASA Square I T: 966 698 569
Monday - Friday 10:00 -13:00 & 17:00 - 20:00 Saturday 10:00 -13:00
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The price of veterinary treatments is a matter which affects pets, owners and Vets. In Spain, Veterinary medicine pays 21% VAT. It’s the great exception in sanitary professions: all the other ones pay 0% VAT: doctors, dentists, psychologists, podiatrists, etc, don’t have to include any VAT in their bills.
Veterinary services, if we are talking about taxes, are considered as non-essential services, just like clothes, decorative objects, etc. We don’t even have a reduced VAT like books or other cultural goods.
It’s true that owning a pet is not mandatory and nobody is obliged to have one at home, but from the moment you decide to adopt one, taking care of them and keeping them in good condition becomes automatically mandatory. For this reason, small animal Vets have been working hard during the lockdown, because animal health is essential, as human health is. That’s why human clinics and hospitals didn’t close during the lockdown, but the thing is they are considered as sanitary professionals, and we are not, from the point of view of taxes.
So, remember when you are asking the price of a Veterinary service, 21% of this price is not for the Vet, but for the Treasure. There is no regulation for prices of Veterinary services, so everyone at their practice can charge what they want: prices are free. It’s absolutely forbidden to make price agreements between the practices, and not even Colleges are allowed to publish guide prices lists (they were long time ago, but not now). It’s very common the prices in practices at the same area are similar, because they work with the same dealers, and the prices of rentals and some other things are similar. It’s also very common clients want to know the price of a service or treatment. We must say something about this:
Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747
• Vets are obliged to inform the client about the price of a service or treatment if they are asked, BUT if the client doesn’t ask, the Vet is not obliged to “warn” about the price. It’s true we do it, normally in case of brand new treatments that can be much more expensive than the owner can guess, specially if there is not a cheaper alternative.
• Despite practices usually charge similar prices for the same service, there will always be somebody who charges a little bit less, and somebody who charge a bit more. Choosing a Vet just because it charges less is not the best option. If we consider something is very cheap or very expensive, the most logical option is to ask why.
• Sometimes it’s impossible to make a budget in advance, even for simple services: for example, clipping nails may be a nice, quick and cheap procedure if the animal co-operates, or may turn into WW3. In this case, if the animal must be sedated or several helpers are required for restraining it, the price cannot be the same as the first case. So, when asking a price, you must always take into account it will be approximate, because the Vet cannot know in advance how much will it be in most cases. A different thing would be, for example, the vaccines. In this case the price doesn’t vary.
• The Vet doesn’t always know the price of the medicines the owner has to buy at the chemist. In some cases, the treatment can be much more expensive than the Veterinary check.
Anyway, if you ask us, we will try to give you an estimation of how much may the procedure cost.
around 2 years old and looking for a forever home. He was rescued as a kitten with a severe ear infection which has left him deaf but other than that is in excellent health.
LEO Leo, his owner passed away & he was brought to us. He had been kept in a large cage for most of his 2/3 years with very little socializing.
After 8 weeks with us he is ready to go to a home , but please a home in Spain only.
BUDDY
BUDDY is a Spanish Mastin approximately 10 months old. He was very nervous when he came to us but is starting to settle and playing with some of the other dogs. He is obedient, good on a lead and loves his cuddles.Buddy has been vet checked, vaccinated, chipped and has a passport.
PETS
www.petsinspain.com Pets In Spain is a website dedicated to the re-homing of abandoned and unwanted animals on the Costa Blanca. Whether you are looking to adopt an animal, advertise an animal or if you simply want to know more about taking care of your pet in Spain, please take a look at our site or Call:
469 253 or email: info@petsinspain.com K9 CLUB www.k9club.es The Charity is run by a team of volunteers CV-01-043388-A CIF No G-54353743 Tel: 600 845 420 e-mail: k9clubinfo@gmail.com Could you spare a few hours a week to volunteer at the Pets in Spain charity shop on La Marina Urb? If so please CONTACT US !!!
Luna and
are 4 years and 5 years old and need a new home due to a family break up and subsequent displacement. They are chipped and sterilised and with vaccination records. Previously they were living in a home with cats.
IN SPAIN
645
Teddy is
Rocky
LABORABLES
POLA
ALICANTE 6:00
6:15 6:20 6:40
7:20 7:45 7:55 8:05 8:00 8:05 8:15 8:20 8:55 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:20 9:55 10:00 10:30 10:05 10:35 10:15 10:45 10:55 10:55 10:55 11:25 11:00 11:05 11:15 11:20 11:55 12:00 12:30 12:05 12:35 12:15 12:45 12:20 12:55 12:55 13:25 13:00 13:05 13:15 13:20 13:55 14:00 14:15 14:0514:1514:20 14:30 14:55 14:50 14:30 14:40 - -15:00 15:05 15:15 15:20 15:55 15:30 15:40 - -16:00 16:05 16:15 16:20 16:55 17:00 17:05 17:15 17:20 17:55 18:00 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:55 19:00 19:05 19:15 19:20 19:55 20:00 20:05 20:15 20:20 20:55 21:00 21:05 21:15 21:20 21:55
SÁBADOS
SANTA POLA GRAN ALACANT ARENALES ALTET ALICANTE
7:00 7:05 7:15 7:20 7:55 8:00 8:05 8:15 8:20 8:55 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:20 9:55 10:00 10:05 10:15 10:20 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 11:20 11:55 12:00 12:05 12:15 12:20 12:55 13:00 13:05 13:15 13:20 13:55 14:00 14:05 14:15 14:20 14:55 15:00 15:05 15:15 15:20 15:55 16:00 16:05 16:15 16:20 16:55 17:00 17:05 17:15 17:20 17:55 18:00 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:55 19:00 19:05 19:15 19:20 19:55 20:00 20:05 20:15 20:20 20:55 21:00 21:05 21:15 21:20 21:55 22:00 22:05 22:15 22:20 22:55
DOMINGOS Y FESTIVOS
SANTA POLA GRAN ALACANT ARENALES ALTET
ALICANTE ALTET ARENALES GRAN ALACANT SANTA POLA
6:45 7:00 7:10 7:20 7:55
8:00
8:15 8:15 8:30 8:208:308:40 8:50
9:00 9:15 9:20 9:30 9:40 10:00 10:15 10:20 10:30 10:40
11:00 11:30 11:15 11:45 11:20 11:50 11:30 12:00 11:40 12:10
12:00 12:15 12:20 12:30 12:40 13:00 13:30 13:15 13:45 13:2013:3013:40 14:05
14:00 14:15 14:20 14:30 14:40
15:00 15:15 15:15 15:30 15:2015:3015:40 15:50
16:00 16:15 16:20 16:30 16:40
17:00 17:15 17:20 17:30 17:40 18:00 18:15 18:20 18:30 18:40
19:00 19:15 19:20 19:30 19:40 20:00 20:15 20:20 20:30 20:40 21:00 21:15 21:20 21:30 21:40 22:00 22:15 22:20 22:30 22:40
SÁBADOS
ALICANTE ALTET ARENALES GRAN ALACANT SANTA POLA
8:00 8:15 8:20 8:30 8:40
9:00 9:15 9:20 9:30 9:40 10:00 10:15 10:20 10:30 10:40
11:00 11:15 11:20 11:30 11:40 12:00 12:15 12:20 12:30 12:40
13:00 13:15 13:20 13:30 13:40
14:00 14:15 14:20 14:30 14:40
15:00 15:15 15:20 15:30 15:40
16:00 16:15 16:20 16:30 16:40
17:00 17:15 17:20 17:30 17:40
18:00 18:15 18:20 18:30 18:40 19:00 19:15 19:20 19:30 19:40 20:00 20:15 20:20 20:30 20:40
21:00 21:15 21:20 21:30 21:40
22:00 22:15 22:20 22:30 23:40 23:00 23:15 23:20 23:30 23:40
AVISO AL PÚBLICO (22/22) Se informa a los Sres. Usuarios de la línea Santa Pola<->Alicante de los horarios establecidos a partir del día 5 de Septiembre del 2022. SANTA POLA-ALICANTE (LINEA 1 y 3) *Estos servicios realizan su paso por BABEL *Este servicio realizará su recorrido por urbanizaciones Gran Alacant (1º Playa Carabassí, 2º Avda Polonia (parada bus), 3º Sueño Azul, 4ºCorreos, 5º Monte de Santa Pola (farmacia), 6º Santara Resort, 7º Mercadillo, 8º Centro Salud , 9º Correos, 10º Mediterráneo (marquesina), 11º Centro Comercial) Realizando su primera parad a en Institutos y finalizando en Est Buses a partir del 12 de septiembre *Estos servicios solo llegarán hasta la población de Gran Alacant (servicios IES S Pola) y se realizarán a partir del 12 de septiembre *Las horas de salida desde Óscar Esplá se realizarán 10 min antes de cada salida desde la Estación de Autobuses de Alicante Para más información pueden visitar la web → https://movilidad.vectalia.es/rutas/ Disculpen las molestias Santa Pola, a 2 de Septiembre del 2022
LABORABLES SANTA
GRAN ALACANT ARENALES ALTET
6:05
7:00 7:30 7:057:15 -
URBANO BUS AROUND GA TOURIST TRAIN AIRPORT BUS
- ALICANTE
BUS TRANSPORT IN AND OUT OF GRAN ALACANT
ALICANTE 7:00 7:05 7:15 7:20 7:55 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:20 9:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 11:20 11:55 13:00 13:05 13:15 13:20 13:55 15:00 15:05 15:15 15:20 15:55 17:00 17:05 17:15 17:20 17:55 19:00 19:05 19:15 19:20 19:55 DOMINGOS Y FESTIVOS ALICANTE ALTET ARENALES GRAN ALACANT SANTA POLA 8:00 8:15 8:20 8:30 8:40 10:00 10:15 10:20 10:30 10:40 12:00 12:15 12:20 12:30 12:40 14:00 14:15 14:20 14:30 14:40 16:00 16:15 16:20 16:30 16:40 18:00 18:15 18:20 18:30 18:40 20:00 20:15 20:20 20:30 20:40
SANTA POLA
- SANTA POLA
To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. While the rules of this logic puzzle may be simple, there are numerous strategies to help you solve Sudoku.
For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk
DOODLE AREA
DOODLE AREA
SUDOKU
Difficulty Rating: EASY
Difficulty Rating: MEDIUM Difficulty Rating: HARD
7 2 3 4 2 6 7 5 5 7 9 6 6 3 8 9 7 4 1 8 1 9 5 6 9 2 5 4 8 3 9 6 5 1 8 3 9 1 2 6 9 3 6 1 2 3 8 2 4 5 7 6 1 3 4 5 8 4 6 3 4 2 8 9 2 3 8 4 7 3 8 5 6 2 9 8 1 6 5 8 1 4 9 5 3 2 5 1 3 8 4
GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS
THE (CONTINUING) ADVENTURES OF THE GRAN ALACANT RUNNERS
For those of you lucky enough to have stayed in Gran Alacant for December all I can say is well done.
Northern Europe experienced a prolonged period of freezing weather due to, would you believe it, “A wind drought” with western European winds calmed with barely a breeze and this caused the freezing weather. And now we are being told that climate change will bring about “Global Stilling” Where do they get these names?
The upshot is, for those living outside of Spain, training has been hampered, although Staffan, who lives in Sweden and experiences these weather conditions every year, has the running gear suited to the conditions whereas in the UK we just have to wrap up warm and hope we can keep our feet when running in the snow and ice.
At the last count there are at least 5 or 6 of us preparing to run the Santa Pola half marathon in January but a few more may take the decision before the event to enrol for the run.
I am hoping my Danish friends, who recently ran the Alicante 21k, fly across in January to join us in the Santa Pola 21k.
But regardless, the training continues with temperatures below freezing and icy paths underfoot.
It didn’t stop us taking to the streets to spread some festive cheer by donning our Santa Hats. Some years ago I was asked to dress as Santa for the kiddies works Christmas party where I had to hand out
Staffan running in minus 11C
Geoff running in minus 1C in the UK
Sponsored by GA-Homefinders
the presents at the end of the day. As it had snowed earlier in the day I brought my trainers to wear with my Santa outfit. One boy of about 6 years old approached me to receive his present when he looked me straight in the eyes and said accusingly, “You aren’t Santa. He doesn’t wear Nike trainers” . I coughed and spluttered then said, in my best Santa voice,” Oh yes I am. Santa has to stay in shape this time of year so I am going for a run once I get the reindeer home. And by the way, be a nice boy for your mammy and daddy or I WONT be coming to see you on Christmas Eve”. The little brat didn’t look convinced.
Staffan continues his run streak with no sign in sight of him calling an end and he should be passing 300 consecutive days of running on January 1.
Running Santa’s in Sweden
On the left: Running in GA in July
On the right: running in Floda, Sweden in December
John wont be running the Santa Pola 21k but is looking at the Benidorm 10k and possibly the Elche 10k. Andy is planning to run not only the Santa Pola 21k but the Elche 21k in March.
We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and we wish you good health, happiness and prosperity for the New Year and don’t forget, if you see us in Gran Alacant join us for a run or say hello. No matter your ability.
If you are visiting the area and want to run with someone, please get in touch on 00447476851356. Keep safe and stay warm.
Diary Dates:
22 January 2023: Santa Pola 21k
5 March 2023: Benidorm 10k & 21k 12 March 2023: Elche 21k
Sponsored by:
We continued our weekly sessions at the Indoor Centre on Av. D’Escandinavia,78 up to Wednesday 14th December and we will be recommencing on Wednesday 11th January at 11am.
We were pleased that we had several new members from different nationalities joining us towards the end of the year and we are looking at ways of encouraging that trend.
Our first lunchtime get-together for members and partners in December was a success and we will be continuing these in the New Year.
The World Cup also provided us with the perfect excuse to support the local bars showing matches and members could follow the teams they had drawn in the Sweepstakes.
Our WhatsApp group has been brought up to date and you can also find information on our Facebook page.
We look forward to welcome all members to our sessions in the New Year.
John Fraser, Administrator WhatsApp +34 630 582322
GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY
GAGS are now back to playing twice a week, Tuesday and Friday at 8am. We are looking forward to meeting up with our regular players and welcoming new members whether they be residents or visitors.
SOCIETY DETAILS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Where: El Plantio Golf Resort. The official address is A-79, Km3, 03114, Alicante.
When: the formal Society Day is Tuesdays weekly when all golfers are most welcome. In addition we have an informal get together every Friday which has always been a Gentleman’s Day.
Time: on both days normally 8am so please be there by 7.40am. Occasionally the Starter may request we change the time so unless you are a regular golfer it would be best to check with us beforehand.
Cost: usually €50 per round at peak times to include a buggy plus €1.50 mandatory insurance charge. It can sometimes be cheaper during less busy, off peak seasons. In addition the Society requires €5 sweep money which is all paid out at the end of the round.
We look forward to seeing you. For more information please contact: Michael (966 698 925) Tony (966 183 004)
BICI GRAN ALACANT
We are a small group who spend most of the time here in Gran Alacant. If you are interested in joining one of our rides look us up on Facebook Gran Alacant Road Cyclist (Bici Gran Alacant) where ride details are posted.
TENNIS CLUB - EURO TENIS
For players of all standards near Gran Alacant, Santa Pola, La Marina & Elche Playing Tuesday and Friday mornings, 10.00 - 12.00 at Club de tenis Elche
For more details email: eurotenis2@gmail.com
GRAN ALACANT WALKING FOOTBALL
Gran Alacant’s Elche CF SUPPORTERS GROUP
A group of football fans in Gran Alacant have come together to set-up their own supporters club to watch the local professional club, Elche CF, at their home games at the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, and their away games in local bars around Gran Alacant.
Having started last season, with just 5 members, all buying season tickets in the Curva Sur, the group have increased their numbers with some of this season’s games having seen over 20 local football fans travel from Gran Alacant through to Elche.
The group got together through their mutual love of football and began watching games together at Shooters Bar when La Liga grounds were still under the COVID lockout. Once supporters were allowed back in, season tickets were bought and the 5 started to go to each home game, using carsharing to travel to and from Elche.
With links to the Gran Alacant Walking Football set-up, the ranks were often swelled by others who wanted to take in a game, and then come the summer and the start of the new season, the numbers increased with 20 season ticket holders now in the Curva Sur.
Members now include football fans from England, Scotland, Ireland, Denmark, Sweden, and of course Spain. And while the first love of these might be Newcastle United, Leeds United, Manchester United, Celtic, or Rangers, the common ground is that on match days everyone is green and white in support of Elche.
It has not been a great season for the Franjiverdes in what is their centenary year. Heading into the World Cup break, Elche have found themselves in bottom place in La Liga. Though it is worth noting that the team were in and around the relegation spots at a similar time last season before breaking clear in the final weeks to guarantee another year of match-ups against the big boys of Spanish football such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atletico de Madrid.
For away games, depending on the kickoff time and date, and what game a bar will actually show to accommodate their numbers, the group usually meets 30 minutes before the start to watch the match together.
Home games see the group move around different bars in Gran Alacant as their meeting place, with bars used this season including the Jolly Roger, Naty’s, Shooters, The Pub, and Tommy’s.
From there, the group arranges carsharing to get up to the ground in time for some pre-match beers and food before returning to Gran Alacant afterwards.
Travel to the ground historically was problematic with no easy public transport links, other than changing buses in Santa Pola which would take an age, and would also leave you stranded in Elche after some of the late final whistles. With sharing driving duties, the group has managed to shift larger groups of fans to games.
Tickets are always easy to come by via the club website at www.elchecf.es apart from for the visits of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Not only are those ticket prices significantly increased, and typically more than double the usual price, but demand for tickets is high so it is recommended that you get online early when those tickets go on sale (the Barcelona game is scheduled for the weekend before Easter). There is also the occasional spare ticket available through the group as well.
Unlike in Northern European countries where the scheduled match is generally fairly static, match rounds in Spain work differently. Other than midweek rounds, and at the very start and end of the season, the games are all spread out with each one being televised. And it is normal for the actual date and time of the match to not be announced until 2 to 4 weeks beforehand. So if you look at any fixtures now and see a Sunday kick-off at 4pm, remember that this will not be the correct date and time (something which has caught a number of visitors out before who have booked flights well in advance).
If you are interested in attending an Elche match, want to watch any of the away games, or just want to know more about the group, find them on Facebook at ‘Peña Elche CF de Gran Alacant’.
¡Mucho Elche!