Gran Alacant Advertiser May 2018 by Gran Alacant Advertiser

MAY

2018 ISSUE 160

YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE SINCE 2005

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PHONE - ENGLISH : 865 663 993 Lou&Ged PHONE - ESPAÑOL: 676 741 983 Camila

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NUESTRAS NOTICIAS LOCALES AHORA ESTÁN EN ESPAÑOL

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We would like to thank the TOURISM COUNCILLOR for enabling Jose Manuel Blasco to join our magazines monthly column. Many of you will surely have met Jose at the Tourist Information Counter in Santa Pola. He always exudes enthusiasm for all that is happening in our area. Here are his suggestions of “Where to visit” and ‘What to see” for this month

Hi everybody

May has arrived with lots of fiestas and parades of Moors and Christians. Let’s start with my favourite parade, which takes place in Biar. The best day to visit Biar is on the 10th of May when you will experience fiesta, tradition, music, fires, fireworks and a lot more. There are, of course, more parades scheduled for May and the programme is as follows: Petrer 17th to 21st, Alcoy 22nd, Muro de Alcoy 11th to 104h, Salinas 28th to 29st. Also there are specials events like the “Feria de Mayo” held in Torrevieja from 23rd to 27th of May or “Romería de San Pascual” another popular pilgrimage in Monforte del Cid-Orito. I also recommend “Las Cruces de Mayo” “The Cross of May” - when crosses are made with flowers. Come and have a look in La Cruz Street in Santa Pola to get an idea about what is like. The most beautiful ones are shown in the old quarter of Alicante “Barrio la Cruz”. From 1st to 3rd June the international karate tournament will take place in Santa Pola. That’s all for May friends Hello Everyone, Great to see more people locals and tourists around and the bars and restaurants reopening after winter closure. The council is doing their bit clearing weeds and a big clean up after Easter when most bins were overwhelmed with all kinds of rubbish. Please remember the collection days for large items are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so please do your bit to keep Gran Alacant clean and neat looking. Have a good month, Ged & Lou Our little dog Zia and our cat Casper have hidden themselves away in the magazine, can you find them? Last month Zia was on page 20 and Casper on page 60

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We at your Gran Alacant Advertiser continue to bring you all of the NEWS, including that from a representative from the Town Hall, as we have since May 2005.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please just email them to us at the magazine - granalacantadvertiser@hotmail.co.uk Q: RUBBISH Once again an influx of people at Easter left most of the bins in Gran Alacant overflowing. Large items were placed beside the bins at weekends only to be left until collection can be made. Please remember the company in charge of the cleaning goes to Gran Alacant on Tuesdays and Thursdays in order to collect large items from the bins. Please call 966 693 955 or 900 103 704 (both free numbers) and inform URBASER of large items collections. Question for Town Hall: Could large stickers be placed on bins to remind people of large items collections dates and the free phone numbers to call? TOWN HALL ANSWER: The proposal of placing large stickers on bins to remind people the dates for collecting large items from URBASER is a great idea, which has been transferred to the enterprise, so as the can set it up. Furthermore, an awareness campaign is being settled up by the Environment Councillor, related to need to recycle and to be polite and respectful when it comes to the cleaning and to the environment. That campaign will begin in two weeks, and it will be published both in the mass media and in the web of the Town Hall.

UPDATE: Your question and images have been forwarded to URBASER who are responsible for keeping Gran Alacant clean. They have informed us that gully has been cleared to allow run off water to escape.

BARRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BITS OF NEWS:

Well, that is it, Easter is over and the hundreds of holidaymakers that descend on our urbanisation have now gone home. It is the only time that everyone is on holiday here at the same time. Queues and queues of cars and people everywhere. Bins overflowing, queues at the checkouts. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very important time for our businesses. Time to get the tills moving to help them through the year. So, for us residents, it is a small price to pay. Businesses with the shutters down are no good to any of us. A few pictures here of what some morons have left behind.

Q: GULLY Following the flooding on certain roads earlier this year, is it possible for the council to arrange the clearing of the run off gullys on Avda. Noruega and other areas, which are already blocked with, overgrown weeds and rubbish. Kind Regards, John & Beth

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Do you recognise the handwriting. These walls have now got to be repainted. Thank you, whoever did it. Please do not return. **********

The 32nd weekly session on April 5th of the Gran Alacant Oldies Walking Football saw an attendance of 16 players, equalling our best yet. One of the players who had been with us for the last 2 months, Jason Connell, was playing for his last time before returning to the UK. He very generously donated a brand new football to us, which was very much appreciated. In the picture attached, he is in the front with the yellow ball. Our age limits range from players in their mid fifties to a few in their seventies, one in fact is 76. We do try to attract 60s and over. A French player came for the first time, to join our Spanish and UK contingent. We are arranging our first game against another team outside of Gran Alacant. It may be against a team from Algorfa. They have a lovely astro turf pitch, which they play on, so we will be playing the game there. The original date for this game was to be on May 1st, but this has been found to be unrealistic, partly due to it being a holiday, so a new date is being arranged. It is a shame that our urbanisation can only offer them a concrete pitch to come and

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play on here against us. We have had teams from the UK and Holland, offering to play us, but we cannot provide a pitch good enough to play on. What a shame. The concrete is uncompromising if you fall. Would think that an astro turf area would soon pay for itself, with organisations queuing up to rent it each week. Not just us but many opportunities for the school children. Would be nice to find sponsors so we could claw back the money through renting out the pitch. Out here sports are played all year round, so the rental income is much more viable. Our games are all year, not just restricted to normal football dates. Q: SPORTS CENTRE At the sports centre there is a spare piece of ground, outside, beside the football concrete pitch. How much would it cost to astro turf that piece of land for football? TOWN HALL ANSWER: Our technicians (both architects and engineers) are studying how much it would cost to turn this piece of ground, next to the current football courtyard, into an land for practising football and other sports. It may cost near the amount of 18.000€, and the Sports Councillor is going, once the study and the project will be done, to ask the Treasury Department for that amount of money in order to achieve this item by 2019. ********** The Town of Santa Pola, through the Department of Sustainability, has signed an agreement to collect used domestic oil, allocating the funds raised to projects from more than 80 non-governmental organizations.

With the signing of the agreement, signed Friday, March 23, 5 containers of waste oil collection will be installed in two locations in Gran Alacant, one of them on Avenida of Escandinavia, near the library, and the other on Noruega, near to the school.

********** Amazing afternoon in Sierra Mar Square! Thank you to all who came, helped and supported in any way at all! Together we raised a whopping 710€ for the Paul Cunningham Nurses based in La Marina! Well done to all! ********** In one of our previous issues we asked the Town Hall about repairs needed on the road going up the hill from the beach. You will see from this picture that it is marked out for attention. Thank you.

If you would like to supply news and info for our next edition, please email: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

INTERCLUB EVENTS IN MAY 10TH OF MAY at 7.30PM a Quiz night free admission 24TH OF MAY a Dinner Dance with Timewarp also at 7.30PM, 3€ admission charge plus menu del dia meal. Alonai Restaurant, Santara Resort, Gran Alacant

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Gran Alacant Advertiser ahora en Español! Para Información sobre precios de publicación contactanos al 676 74 19 83 Las noticias locales traducidas del ingles por Camila. Todas las fotos se pueden ver en la Información redactada en Ingles P: BASURA Una vez más, la gran afluencia de gente durante la Semana Santa dejó la mayor parte de los contenedores de Gran Alacant desbordados. Sobre todo se vio como se acumulaba la basura al lado de los contenedores, esperando a su recolección durante los días festivos.

P: SUMIDEROS Después de la inundación en ciertas carreteras a principios de este año, ¿es posible que el ayuntamiento limpie los sumideros de la Avda. Noruega, y otras áreas que ya están bloqueadas con malezas y desperdicios. Saludos cordiales, John y Beth

Recuerden que la compañía a cargo de la limpieza viene a Gran Alacant los martes y jueves para recoger enseres y voluminosos de los contenedores. Llamen al 966 693 955 o al 900 103 704 (ambos números gratuitos) e informen a URBASER sobre las recolección de artículos grandes.

ACTUALIZAR: Su pregunta e imágenes han sido enviadas a URBASER, quienes son responsables de mantener la limpieza en Gran Alacant. Nos han informado que el sumidero se ha despejado para permitir el flujo de agua.

PREGUNTA PARA EL AYUNTAMIENTO: ¿Se podrían colocar pegatinas grandes en los contenedores para informar sobre las fechas de recolección de enseres/ voluminosos y los números de teléfono gratuitos para llamar? RESPUESTA: La propuesta de colocar pegatinas grandes en los contenedores para recordar a las personas las fechas de recogida de objetos grandes de URBASER, es una buena idea que se ha transferido a la empresa para que pueda configurarla. Además, el Consejero de Medio Ambiente está estableciendo una campaña de sensibilización relacionada con la necesidad de reciclar, ser cortés, y respetuoso con la limpieza y el medio ambiente. Esa campaña comenzará en dos semanas, y se publicará tanto en los medios de comunicación como en la web del Ayuntamiento.

LAS NOTICIAS DE BARRY: Bueno, ¡ya esta!, la Semana Santa ha pasado y los cientos de turistas que vienen a nuestra urbanización se han ido a casa. Es la única época del año en que todos están de vacaciones al mismo tiempo. Colas y colas de coches y gente por todas partes. Contenedores desbordados, colas en las cajas. Pero es un momento muy importante para nuestros negocios, y es hora de empezar a rodar las cajas. Esta pequeña "invasión" es el precio que tenemos que pagar los residentes, ya que los negocios locales con las persianas bajadas no nos haría bien a nadie. Entre las primeras páginas pueden ver las fotos de lo que unos vándalos han dejado atrás.Estas paredes ahora tienen que ser repintadas. Gracias, quien sea que lo hizo. ¡Por favor no regreses! ********** La 32ª sesión semanal del 5 de abril de Gran Alacant Oldies Walking Football tuvo una asistencia de 16 jugadores, nuestro

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mejor número de asistencia hasta ahora. Uno de los jugadores que estuvo con nosotros los últimos 2 meses, Jason Connell, estuvo jugando por última vez antes de volver al Reino Unido. Él generosamente nos donó un nuevo balón de fútbol, lo cual agradecemos mucho. En la imagen adjunta, él está al frente con la pelota amarilla. Nuestros jugadores están en edades entre los 50 y los 70 (de hecho hay uno que tiene 76 años). La idea es atraer a jugadores de 60 años para arriba. Un jugador francés vino por primera vez para unirse a nuestro contingente español y británico. Estamos organizando nuestro primer partido contra otro equipo fuera de Gran Alacant. Puede ser contra un equipo de Algorfa. Tienen un hermoso campo de césped artificial en el que juegan, así que jugaremos allí. La fecha original del partido era el 1 de Mayo, pero no va a ser posible; en parte debido a que es festivo, por lo que se está organizando una nueva fecha. Es una pena que nuestra urbanización solo pueda ofrecerles un terreno de juego de cemento para venir a jugar aquí contra nosotros. Hemos tenido equipos del Reino Unido y Holanda que quieren hacer torneos, pero no podemos ofrecer un campo lo suficientemente bueno para jugar. Qué lástima. El cemento es que no perdona si te caes. Pienso que un área de césped artificial se amortizaría pronto, y las organizaciones harían cola para alquilarla cada semana. No sólo para nosotros, sino también para los niños de Gran Alacant y Santa Pola. Sería bueno encontrar patrocinadores para poder recuperar el dinero alquilando el terreno de juego. Aquí los deportes se juegan todo el año, por lo que los ingresos por alquiler son mucho más viables. P: POLIDEPORTIVO En el centro deportivo hay un terreno, al lado del campo de fútbol, que no se está usando.

¿Cuánto costaría césped artificial?

acondicionarlo

con

RESPUESTA: Nuestros técnicos (tanto arquitectos como ingenieros) están estudiando cuánto costaría convertir esta porción de terreno, junto al actual patio de fútbol, en una pista para practicar fútbol y otros deportes. Puede costar cerca de la cantidad de 18,000 €, y el Concejal de Deportes va, una vez que el estudio y el proyecto estén listos, a pedirle al Departamento del Tesoro esa cantidad de dinero para poder alcanzar este ítem para 2019. ********** En uno de nuestros números anteriores le preguntamos al Ayuntamiento sobre las reparaciones necesarias en la carretera que sube la cuesta desde la playa. Pueden ver en la foto lo que necesita atención. Gracias. ********** El pueblo de Santa Pola, a través del Departamento de Sustentabilidad, ha firmado un acuerdo para recolectar aceite doméstico usado, asignando los fondos recaudados a proyectos de más de 80 organizaciones no gubernamentales. Con la firma del acuerdo firmado el viernes 23 de marzo, se instalarán 5 contenedores de recolección de aceites usados en dos ubicaciones en Gran Alacant, una de ellas en Avenida de Escandinavwwwwia, cerca de la biblioteca, y la otra en Noruega, cerca del colegio. ********** Que buena tarde que pasamos en la Plaza de Sierra Mar! Gracias a todos los que vinieron para apoyar esta buena causa. Entre todos recaudamos 710€ para las Enfremeras Paul Cunningham de La Marina. ¡Bien hecho!

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PLAZA MAYOR

TRASPASO FOR SALE LOCALE in Plaza Mayor Contact: 669 400 210 / 690 229 364

No Time Wasters please

PLAZA MAYOR

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, LoungeD & Rogers

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB Monte Mar Bowls and Social Club Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, LoungeD and Rodgers Toreadors and Matadors End of Season Lunch On Monday 12th March we held our end of season lunch at Maritaos Kitchen Gran Alacant. Unfortunately both the Matadors and Toreadors struggled this season, losing points for not fielding a full team. The Toreadors managed to finish fourth in the Friday League. A big thank you to all for your support. The lunch was well attended and everyone had a very enjoyable afternoon.

LoungeD. As this was the last match for the Club Captain Ronnie Cairns as he was not seeking re-election, the Chairman thanked him for all his work for the club he had undertaken. He went on to thank Lou, Ged and there team for help making it a successful day.

Monthly Dinner Dance The dinner dance was held on March 13th at the Alonia Resturant, the entertainment by Tony Francis. Everyone enjoyed the meal and Tony Francis soon had most people up dancing. Touring Team On Friday 16th we entertained the Driffield touring team from Yorkshire. We had a very enjoyable morning, having five rinks which were played in an extremely friendly manner. Monte Mar had a good result overall but the scores really don't matter on these sort of occasions as everyone involved had a excellent mornings bowling. Captain v Chairman Saturday 31st March saw the annual Captain v Chairman match at Monte Mar on a sunny but windy day, it was a very competitive mornings bowling played in good spirit. It finished with a good win for the chairmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team. Following the match we gathered a LoungeD for drinks and the presentation of the cup. Medals were presented to the team of Val Hignett, Cliff Norris and Harry Dobson as the team with the best shot difference. This was followed by a excellent buffet provided by ladies of the club and

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MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by The Belfry, The Pub, Bowling Abroad, Avalon, LoungeD & Rogers

Finals Day On Saturday 24th March we held our Ladies and Men's Finals. Joan Harding v Jan Gatward and Graham Smythe v Keith Simpson. After two good matches played in not very good conditions Jan won the ladies and Graham won the men's. Afterwards we enjoyed a buffet lunch in the Rincon followed by the presentation of the trophy's to the winners and runners up.

WINNERS:

AUSTRAILIAN PAIRS Jan Gatward and Ronnie Cairns. 4321 Jan Gatward, Mike Farrelly, Les Bounds and Bill Young. LADIES V MEN Diane Horsington and June Young. Ronnie Cairns and Mick Soars. FUN DAY CHALLENGE Ron Jones 422 Sheila Roberts, Chris Harding, John Hunt and Joan Harding. LADIES INVITATION Jan Webster and Mick Soars. PRESIDENTS CUP Terry Cottle. MIXED RINKS Jan Soars,Harry Dobson, Lynne Armitage and Colin Armitage. TWO WOOD TRIPS June Young,Val Hignett and Ronnie Cairns. MIXED TRIPS Sheila Roberts, Alan Wilkinson and Graham Smyth. LADIES TRIPS Lynne Armitage, Rita Towle and Pauline Woodfine. MENS TRIPS Alan Ashberry, Harry Dobson and Colin Armitage. TWO WOOD PAIRS Lynne and Colin Armitage. DRAWN PAIRS Sheila Roberts and Ronnie Cairns. MIXED PAIRS Pauline and Chris Merry. LADIES PAIRS Sue Bounds and Rita Towle MENS PAIRS Alan Ashberry and Dave Melville. LADIES SINGLES Jan Gatward. MENS SINGLES Graham Smyth.

RUNNERS UP:

MIXED RINKS Sheila Roberts, Chris Harding. Jack Burrell and Joan Harding. TWO WOOD TRIPS Pauline Woodfine Pauline and Chris Merry. MIXED TRIPS Keith Simpson, Rita Towle and Idwal Roberts. LADIES TRIPS Sheila Roberts, Jan Soars and Joan Harding. MENS TRIPS Ronnie Cairns, Mick Soars and Chris Merry. TWO WOOD PAIRS Pauline and Chris Merry. DRAWN PAIRS Lynne Armitage and Harry Dobson. MIXED PAIRS June Young and Alan Ashberry. LADIES PAIRS Pauline Merry and Pauline Woodfine. MENS PAIRS Harry Dobson and Chris Merry. LADIES SINGLES Joan Harding. MENS SINGLES Keith Simpson.

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Los Amigos Bodega La Marina Samantha and Christopher Menon Los Amigos, locally known as Sam’s Bar, has been a supporter of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal since Sam took over the bar. Sam selected the Royal British Legion as her favoured charity and vowed to raise €5000 in 5 years. Originally a favourite haunt of the La Marina Branch, Sam’s Bar hosted many of their functions and collected for the Poppy Appeal in the process. After La Marina Branch joined with the Gran Alacant Branch, Sam continued to collect in the Poppy Boxes and by her fifth anniversary in February, she had collected the magnificent sum of €5611, including more than €1500 in the last year alone. To mark this superb achievement, The Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch Chairman, Robin Hargrave, obtained a Certificate from the Royal British Legion to present to Sam’s Bar/Los Amigos. During a Branch Lunch outing at Sam’s on the thirteenth of April, Robin duly presented the Certificate to Sam in the company of the Branch Members. The Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch of the Royal British Legion meet on the first Monday of the Month at 18:00 in La Taberna, next to Monte Y Mar Restaurant & Bowls Club, Plaza Mayor, (Masa Square) Gran Alacant. Next meeting May 7th. There is no need to be Ex Service to be a Member. Further details are available by contacting: Chairman 96 66 95 423 Treasurer 639 917 971 granalacant.secretary@rbl.commuintiy THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 13TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

The Reiki Room Harmonious Healing

with Jackie Canale

WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY & WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Hello readers, for those who don’t know me let me introduce myself, my name is Jackie Canale and I am a holistic therapist working in Gran Alacant. Promoting holistic well-being wherever I can. Welcome to May, I can’t believe how fast the months are passing, the summer season is fast approaching and the ‘flip-flop’ weather is definitely on its way. Time to get the feet out. With that in mind I will take this time to talk about reflexology. WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY? Reflexology is a holistic treatment that can be carried out on the face, ears, hands or the feet. The feet is personally my favourite place to carry out this treatment; a lot of stress is put on our feet on a daily basis, it is nice to pay them a little gratitude sometimes with the added benefit of working your whole system at the same time.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Reflexology has many benefits, some of which include preventing migraines, boosting circulation, increasing energy, improving sleep disorders, relieving depression to managing chronic pain. It does not cure, only the body can do that. What it does do is facilitates healing within the body. It is a safe, natural therapy that helps to give your body what it needs, it also helps to boost the immune system whilst creating a stronger body and calmer mind.

Reflexology is the art of applying gentle pressure (light preferably for first timers, medium afterwards) to reflex areas and is Reflexology foot treatments at the Reiki a very effective way to alleviate any stress Room are conducted using all homemade in the body, the practitioner uses a number organic products. of different techniques with their hands to bring about a state of deep relaxation whilst stimulating the body’s own healing process. Tel: 693 018 046 Email- thereikiroom40@gmail.com Facebook: The Reiki Room-Harmonious Healing The Reiki Room is situated in Don Pueblo, close to the Farmacia in Gran Alacant!

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Take advantage of my special offer this month.

FULL 1 HOUR REFLEXOLOGY FOOT TREATMENT FOR THE SPECIAL DISCOUNTED PRICE OF

ONLY 17.00 EUROS

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CARABASSI CENTRE

The Royal British Legion Caring and campaigning for our ex-Service community.

The Royal British Legion in Spain. Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch BR 3606. The Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch meets on the First Monday of the month 18:00 at â&#x20AC;&#x153;La Taberna next to Monte & Mar Resturant & Bowls Club, Plaza Mayor (MASA Square) Gran Alacant. Next meeting on May 7th 18:00 New members always Welcome and you Do Not need to be Ex Service to join. Further details from â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chairman 96 669 5423 or Treasurer 639 917 971. Email:granalacant.secretary@gmail.com All eyes were on the radiant bride as her father escorted her down the aisle. They reached the altar and the waiting groom; the bride kissed her father and placed something in his hand. The guests in the front pews responded with ripples of laughter. Even the priest smiled broadly. As her father gave her away in marriage, the bride gave him back his credit card.

CARABASSI CENTRE

nie

Happy 80th Win

Happy 60th Pam

. . . t u o b A Out &

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Urb.Sierra Mar Charity Fund Raising Afternoon Raised 710â&#x201A;¬

Well done to all !

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Chatter Final Farewell

It’s time to bid a final farewell to all of you in Gran Alacant; friends, colleagues and readers of my monthly ‘Chatter’ column. A series of unfortunate events has conspired to end my time, in this part of Spain. I have lived on the Costa Blanca for a little over two years now and for the most part, enjoyed my time here. This has been a journey that I wouldn’t have missed for the World, despite the pitfalls and difficulties along the way. The Spanish are fantastic people, as are the many Expats who live in this urbanisation, all of whom have been welcoming and accepting of me. When you live in a community such as this, you soon become aware of the nature of those around you. Everyone has been a source of inspiration and gone out of their way to help my partner and I, settle in to Spanish life; without them it would have been a very different experience. I will be moving to Australia at the end of May, forging a new life down under, as I begin to navigate new opportunities in the birth place of my husband! We have been together for 23 years, spending most of our time living in the UK; today we are preparing to fly to Perth, in order to offer support to my Mother in Law, as she deals with the spectre of cancer; a difficult undertaking, especially after spending so long in Europe. All of us will have to face the dreaded C word at some stage; it makes a World of difference when you have family around you. The hardest part, when living abroad, is the lack of contact with loved ones; I have found that especially arduous myself, so can understand just how my partners Mother feels.

In my last ‘Chatter’ column, I want to talk about my recollections living in Spain and focus on the issues that have impacted me since arriving in 2015. Let me say straight away, that living in Gran Alacant has taught me much about survival. From the outset, I have learned to live in an extremely frugal way. For the first time in my life I have had to budget and watch the cents, only buying what is necessary. Money is tight in this region and it hasn’t been a particularly pleasant undertaking at times; trying to attain a decent standard of living has been gruelling. I am however thankful for the life skills I have acquired, as a result of my awareness. I am no longer the wasteful Northern European; today I throw away very little. The sense of community in this area is a breath of fresh air; Gran Alacant is a village, serving a tight knit, mostly British Expat community. It has been a privilege living with such a fantastic bunch of people, many of whom will remain a part of my life, even in Australia, through the wonders of social media. I have made many enduring friendships that I hope will last the test of time. My memories of everyone are largely positive and unquestionable; my friends and neighbours are the glue that holds this place together; without them it would not be the destination it is today. Expats are a truly hardy, canny and resourceful lot. There were times, I could have walked away and left everything behind; without the support of those around me, I’m sure I would have done just that. Expat life is about battling against the odds, helping others when needed and giving ‘newbies’ the benefit of your wisdom. It isn’t about sitting on a terrace everyday, drinking wine in the hot Spanish sun, although it is a frequent part of life here, as one would expect. Spain has a lifestyle I have thoroughly enjoyed and one I am reluctant to leave!

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I have faced many challenges and have spent, what seems like a lifetime dealing with the huge volume of paperwork needed to enjoy a trouble free life. From the beginning, we set out to become legal in every sense of the word and at times have navigated the Spanish system blind, but on nearly every occasion we have managed to complete all the necessary documentation. When you Marry a non EU foreign national, you know your life is going to be difficult from the get go and ours has been a roller coaster ride. Staying together under challenging circumstances has been strenuous at best, near impossible at worst. Spain is a welcoming country , but like most EU nations it makes life very tough for those of us who don’t fit the traditional European mould. The frustration both of us have endured has been a nightmare on occasion; many sleepless nights and stressful days have been a feature of our life, not only in Spain, but also for the 23 years we have been together. Having said that this country has been far more accepting than most and we are very grateful for the time we have spent here. Gran Alacant is a place we know well now, but before we moved here, we had no idea it even existed. I had never been to this part of Spain before and picked it because of its location, between the popular holiday destinations of Benidorm and Torrevieja. For us, not yet 50 years old, we had a number of years to work, before being entitled to a pension. It was and still is necessary to work and survive, just like anyone else. Gran Alacant has given us more than I could have ever hoped for. I Have been allowed to follow my aspirations of writing, not only my online blog, but also in the G A Advertiser, composing my ‘Chatter’ column each month. I have thoroughly enjoyed writing for Ged and Lou and would like to thank them for the opportunities they gave me. I will of course continue to write in

Australia, as I always have done. ‘Spanish Views,’ has now become ‘Roaming Brit,’ documenting a new phase in my life and the issues I am likely to face on a daily basis. I have also been lucky enough to teach English to Spanish children at the ‘Princesa de Asturias School’ in Elche, another ambition fulfilled, as well as working for ‘Dunbars’ as a chef and in my current role, at ‘LoungeD,’ serving the community that surrounds Plaza Mayor. Spain has been a life enhancing period, giving me breathing space before I move to the other side of the World; it has been a learning curve in all respects. The skills I have acquired in GA will serve me well in the future. The memories I have made will always remain with me, a part of psyche and responsible for the person I have become. Wherever I lay my hat, Gran Alacant will be firmly beneath its brim; a time of growth, exploration, learning and freedom! I would like to thank everyone for reading ‘Chatter’ each month. I have had many positive comments as well as other more constructive words, igniting debate and creating conversation; two aspects of life I find stimulating, as I know you do also. The support you have given me has been heartwarming and appreciated; I shall miss writing for the Advertiser, but will do my best to keep up to date with events in this community, reading about your exploits online and commenting when I can. Finally, I would like to offer all my friends and neighbours a fond farewell, wishing everyone success in their lives. As I continue to pack my life into suitcases, I am mindful of the ending of an era, starting a new journey far away from here. One day I hope to return, have a pint or two, listen to the ‘Chatter’ in the squares and the opinions of all of you; the life blood of this community; once again sipping sangria in the hot Spanish sun!

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DRAMA IN A TEACUP The sunlight was finally beginning to warm them. John and Sarah had been walking for most of the morning through the dense undergrowth of the natural forest. The tree canopy had protected them from most of the heavy drizzle which had persisted since the previous night, but it also blocked out the sun. As the canopy thinned, so they finally began to dry out.

They had set out the previous morning from the Chalet. They and their friends, David and Carol, had decided to take different routes on this final section of the challenge. John was sure that the best way over The Peak was to get the climb out of the way first, while they were fresh, and then continue along the route on more level ground and down-hill to their destination. John was more inclined to take the slightly longer, but more gradual route over the top, believing that a steady pace throughout, would be quicker. They agreed to differ, and so set off in different directions after an early breakfast on the first day. There was to be an overnight stop at a hut at the end of that day and the second day would be given over to the long easy decent to the Travellers Rest at the end of the trail. The weather forecast was favourable, with light winds and only a slight chance of rain towards the evening. It was, however, only a forecast. The reality struck as John and Sarah struggled up the steep slopes towards the Peak. Progress was slower than anticipated and the rain set in well before they reached the top. By the time they did arrive at The Peak, darkness was settling around them and the hut was still an hour further on. Decision time. Camp out, in the darkness or press on, with the likelihood of getting lost and the possibility of coming to grief on the rough terrain. “If there is any doubt, there is no doubt. Play Safe.” They stopped in the shelter of an overhanging rock feature which they could just make out in the failing light. The rain had eased to a steady, fine drizzle and the rocks protected them from the cold wind

rit

ONE LUMP OR TWO

ac nb y Te r r y L

that blew nearer the top of the climb. Although they were not experts, they were well prepared for the overnight stop. John assembled the simple stove and set to, preparing a hot drink, while Sarah stretched out the waterproof sheet that would cover their sleeping bags. They both arranged the ties on the sheet to lift it clear of the sleeping bags and make sure the water ran clear of the sleeping area. Tomato soup and energy bars for supper. They wondered how their compatriots had faired and settled down in their sleeping bags for an uncomfortable night. Dawn was still considering its future when Sarah woke and started to rise from the warm bag. John was awake but not yet stirring. The drizzle had eased, slightly. Eventually, the pair had tidied the camping ground, packed the kit into their rucksacks and prepared for the trek to the Travellers Rest. Even through the damp air, the view was spectacular. In the darkness of the previous night they had no idea that the scenery would be so beautiful. From their vantage point they could see down the long green valley, over the shimmering blue lakes and on to their destination. The woods ahead didn’t seem to be too daunting at first, but soon after they entered on the path, they realised they had chosen a route which was not well used. Slowed down by the damp undergrowth, they were almost relieved that the canopy was holding back the rain but it was cold from lack of sunlight. As they finally broke out of the woods, the view was less glamourous but, in sight down-hill and over a long green pasture, was the Travellers Rest. It was late afternoon when they finally arrived at the entrance to the garden Tea Rooms. They stopped together, in surprise. David and Carol were seated at a table apparently in great spirits and enjoying afternoon tea. Sarah was first to speak. “How on earth did you manage to get here looking so good? We got soaked. Did you make it to the Hut?”

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Carol was the one to reply. “Not at all. When we saw the weather closing in, we decided that discretion was the better part of valour, and turned back to the Chalet. We were up late this morning, just in time to catch breakfast before they cleared away and then took the number fourteen bus. It stops just down the lane. We’ve nearly finished afternoon tea, but there is still some in the pot. Shall I pour? Milk and sugar?”

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SIERRA MAR

Mayka’s Kitchen

SIERRA MAR

Mayka’s Kitchen Hi all, We are so close to summer! And I shouldn’t really do this recipe as it’s not going to help us to get ready for the summer-body :))

This month it’s a typical Asturian recipe and a very popular dish. Hope you enjoy it xxx

Cachopo

Ingredients • 4 very thin veal fillet steaks (for 2 people) • 200gr serrano ham • 200gr cheese ( Galician cheese Tetilla is pretty good but you can choose any sof cheese you like) • 2 eggs • breadcrumbs • salt

Let’s Start! Tenderize the steak until very thin, stuff them with 2 slices of cheese, 2 slices of serrano ham and put the second fillet on the top. Beat the eggs and carefully dip the stuffed fillet in the egg and then coat in breadcrums. Fry each side in very hot oil. Serve with chips and salad. Have a great month. xxx

Que Aproveche!

Enjoy! 42

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MIRROR CORNER Dear readers, This corner will be devoted to give you some help and emotional support. Using a well known psychological tool called “projection” I will hope to achieve this. Others expressing their feelings and situations seems to be one of the best ways to have a truly good look “inside” ourselves. To do this mechanism of empathy and projection (basic human emotional defence) we can create, recreate, build and rebuild different points of view about different situations. We grow on this basis. My proposal is for you to bring me different, real situations that can have an impact on our everyday lives, and that may also be an interesting topic to others. I encourage you to take an active part and bring me situations, ask me questions or some possible suggestions, even a consultation if required. This way we are all co-operating together in “mirror corners” to make it work for our own benefits and interests. This information from yourselves will all be kept in the strictest confidentiality, names, emails, telephone numbers will not appear, you can even leave it simply as ‘anonymous’ for ease.

ABOUT THERAPY If you have never been to visit a Psychologist before you may ask yourself some different questions and have “Fantasies “about what it involves. For example: • Do I need a Psychologist? • Do I need to tell them everything? • How long does it take to recover? • I am ashamed! • I don’t know how to explain what is happening to me? If you are ever asking yourself any questions like these ones, yaou would benefit with a therapy process. Just look for someone professional, there is always an official list of psychologists and that way you would know you would be in good hands. If only putting into words was the problem, it has a positive effect in terms of emotions and sense of release, but you can go further than this. Life is a whole sequence, and you are the ¨main actor¨. You have your own characteristics, ways of functioning, and facing events (Defences), belief (fantasies) etc. There is a song that says, “I am what I am” (Identification) but let me tell you one thing “you are what you think you are” (Identifications, Fantasies and Defences). If you can start thinking about this fact, you can be part of one of the most beneficial experiences of life, THE PROCESS OF THERAPY.

The Psychologist has the responsibility of listening, finding out WHO it is talking, why he or she feels that experience, it could be... studying, waiting, asking, speaking, feeling with empathy? they then leave aside his or her personal feelings, but nevertheless, they are supposed to use that energy to get into his or her Science Knowledge. Also, Experience IS important to make the proper psychological strategy “tailor-made” for that ONE that is in front of him or her. As far as “ME” is concerned, it is not only a mental and emotional (sometimes spiritual) experience, but it also the body that takes part in the process. Owing to my ten years of experience in Psychoanalysis and Gestalt Experiences the body plays an Important role. The CognitiveConductual approach (Psychological Tool that I studied, appreciated and have been using for over ten years), DRAWING INPUTS AND OUTPUTS, finding ways to get into deeper

MIRROR CORNER

PS.BEATRIZ COTA PONCE

MASTER HEALTH AND MASTER JURIDIC PSYCHOLOGIST Num Colegiados- CV12623 y MU03895

Santa Pola Gran Alacant beatrizcotaponce2016@gmail.com

Want to ask Beatriz a question? Email: beatrizcotaponce2016@gmail.com Your information will be kept in the strictest confidentiality.

and very rich experiences that may have a lot of things for us to work on, and then to reach the deepest place. It is a spiral where I am always ¨asking for permission¨, and it is magical when we can get together. There is always FREEDOM waiting for US. When this Phenomenon takes place (thanks to the “Transfer” – which I will explain in a later issue), and happens, not only you, but also your family, neighbours and friends get that ¨extra bonus´ from you. Don´t think this is magic, after all ¨Rome wasn´t built in a day¨. It takes battles, some wars, and can take years in some cases (two, or three, depending on the many factors) but at the end it is well deserved. I am not saying that only by getting into the depths you benefit from Therapy, I am establishing the ways of working. As soon as you start to handle different ways of facing different ¨problems¨, you and the people around you can feel something different, more positive starting to happen. It is a way of LEARNING, once you recognize yourself, your way of facing things, from where they came from etc; you start to make different choices. You start to be free in many ways. In some ways you start to eliminate that “CONDUCTUAL AUTHOMATISM”, for a healthier, more positive and quite different choice. Your loved ones, and even “nonloved ones”, may have started to feel that something is changing for the benefit of everybody around you. To cut a long story short, I have decided to bring you normal situations, where most of you can see yourselves, this is called “projection”, and also I would like to try and give you some ways on how you can handle them, some advice using the “ CognitiveConduction” point of view .

I would love for you to suggest to me some topics you want to know about, for sure I will have had some real topics related to it during my past work history, I have twenty years of folders to investigate. You can ask me any questions, and I will give you my contribution in the form of suggestion, hoping it can help you.

I feel, first things need to be explained first, thus being why I have devoted my first writing to you to being about the “MEANING OF THERAPY”, otherwise, this column wouldn’t differ from a column written in any gossip magazine out there. I am very pleased to create this new communication space among us. I think it will be useful for all of us, enriching YOU and ME. So. Let’s go and see “WHAT´S UP”

MIRROR CORNER

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Out & About with Star & Ashlee Casa La Pedrera Hi my name is Star and I have been lucky enough to call Gran Alacant my home for over 9 years now. My 8 year old daughter Ashlee and I are often “Out & About” enjoying the local attractions and culture in this part of Spain. Over the next few months I will be sharing some of our experiences with you to encourage you to go “Out & About” yourselves and maybe learn a little bit about this beautiful place we call home.

6th Easter Egg Hunt!! Each time there is a different theme and route. We have also paid for the kids to go on Quad tours, Pony rides, in fact Chester was the first pony Ashlee ever rode and he has remained a favourite ever since, although she is too big for him now, and when the weather has been good, use the pools as well.

This month we wanted to share our love for an amazing place that we have visited numerous times over the years. Casa La Pedrera (also known as the Grand Design House as it was featured on the TV series many years ago) is located around 45mins - 1 hour away, depending which route you take, inland from Los Montesinos. The house itself is situated in a conservation area, next to the Embalse de la Pedrera (La Pedrera reservoir). Our first visit was in Easter 2013 and we were absolutely blown away by the stunning location and views. Once we had given ourselves a few minutes to admire our surroundings, we gave the kids their Easter baskets, collected a list of clues and were off on our first ever Easter Egg Hunt!! The hunt took us all around their property and down to the lake solving clues and participating in activities along the way. It was great fun and we have gone back every year since, making this year our

Throughout the year, Costa Blanca Quad Tours and Outdoor Adventures offer Quad Biking, Horseriding & Pony Trekking, Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Kayaking/ Canoeing and Nature Walks. They also hold craft days, afternoon tea, flamenco evenings and you can even get married there!! Seasonal activities include the Easter Egg Hunt, the Halloween trail and a Christmas

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Out & About with Star & Ashlee

Santa hunt, which we have also been too a few times. There is a hunt around the property solving clues and the grand finale is when the kids meet the big man himself to have a little chat, hand in their letters and receive a small gift (often a chocolate santa).

As you will see from the photographs it is a stunning location. Ashlee and I have been with numerous friends over the years, and we all have a great time and fall in love with the location. To find out more information you can visit their website: https:// costablancaquadtours.com/ or check out their facebook page https://www. facebook.com/CostaBlancaQuadToursandOutDoorAdventures/ You can also email them: info@costablancaquadtours.com or contact Jenni on 660816620 or Derek on 696739048 for more information. Join us next month for some more fun â&#x20AC;&#x153;Out and Aboutâ&#x20AC;? Star & Ashlee xxx Out & About with Star & Ashlee

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GRAN ALACANT GOLF SOCIETY This month we would like to describe our competition format and also give some news as to the Society meetings held in March.

Our competitions are mainly stablefords, played off full handicap. All golfers contribute â&#x201A;Ź5 to the prize pot which is all returned according to the winning places. For example, on Tuesdays we pay out to the winner and second placed golfers and , if numbers permit to third place. On Fridays we pay the overall winner, best front nine and best back nine ( a golfer can only win one of these prizes to ensure a wider distribution of prize money). On Fridays we also have a nearest the pin prize. Occasionally in order to provide some variety we might throw in a medal round or secret partners competition or, if circumstances permit, a Texas Scramble. As for March meetings, as well as our usual core members, numbers were increased by the holiday home owners who came to GA perhaps to escape the UK weather (!) but more likely to celebrate in Spanish style St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and the onset of Easter festivities. Finally, thank you to GA Advertiser for running these articles on behalf of GAGS and it has been great to welcome a number of new golfing friends generated as a result of these articles -the more the merrier. As always new members and/or guests are welcome, whether a full time resident or someone with your own holiday home or a holiday maker in the region - we would love to see you. For more information please contact either Barry C (686180585) or Barry D (966183018).

Any creaking oldies out there like me, who would like to move about a bit more. How about getting together for VERY SLOWLY walking football We are a small group who spend most of No walking sticks allowed. the winter here in Gran Alacant. If you are Every Thursday. interested in joining one of our rides look

Group road bike rides from Gran Alacant

For more information email Barry at laneinspain@hotmail.com for start times, venue, and weekly updates.

us up on Facebook Gran Alacant Road Cyclist (Bici Gran Alacant) where ride details are posted.

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CLINICA VETERINARIA GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS

Tel: 966 698 569

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747

BABIES AND PETS Some very common questions when we are expecting a baby are: what can I do with my pet? Will it need some kind of extra treatment? Will it feel jealous of the baby?

Most pets are supposed to be under control and well educated, so they won’t need any extra. When we say under control we mean, of course, updated of yearly injections and internal (every 3 months minimum) and external (monthly) antiparasitic treatments. In case of a new baby at home, internal treatments are the most important ones, since internal parasites are very contagious, and, except in some extreme cases, you can’t see them. In case of external parasites transmission is much less common. The Vet will advise you about the best option for treating internally and externally the pet (because not all the options are valid depending on the specific case). Another typical question would be: my dog has leishmaniasis. Will it imply some risk for the baby? The dog is not a problem. The real problem is the mosquito, which natural habitat is all the Mediterranean area. Having a positive dog at home doesn’t increase significantly the risk of transmission. What about cats and Toxoplasma while I’m pregnant? There is not a very big number of carrier cats. The disease is caused by protozoa which are eliminated discontinuously via feline faeces. Cats

can be tested for antibodies, but the most important in this case is to know Toxoplasmosis is dangerous only during pregnancy, and only in case the pregnant woman has no antibodies (they appear when the woman has had a previous contact with the disease. These antibodies will eliminate any kind of risk for the foetus). Supposing the worst case scenario (a positive cat living with a negative pregnant woman), avoiding to touch the litter tray during the pregnancy is enough. When the baby is born, it’s no longer a foetus, so the risk disappears. Besides, fresh vegetables, cold meats and not enough cooked food imply a much bigger risk of transmission than a cat, but doctors ignore this very often. Are companion birds a risk for the baby? Caged birds are not a risk. In case of birds living in semi-freedom, they must be watched for avoiding accidents, but there is not an usual bird behaviour to attack a baby, except in case of big and intelligent birds which may have an excess of emotional attachment to the owner. This condition is not only seen in birds, but also in dogs (the typical case of a hyper protective dog). In most cases there is no need to modify anything at home when the new baby arrives. Animals are not an obstacle but a source of extra stimulation for the newborn (in many cases, the pet is the first best friend of the baby). May a pet get jealous? Nowadays, a pet is really another member of the family, and it takes some time (very short in most cases), to get adapted to the new scenario (a new person, but also some new furniture or a new house. A mentally healthy dog would never attack a baby. Cats are a singular case: some of them hate everything that is new, and they may get seriously ill, or timid, or naughty, or even run away from home. So far, we don’t know any case of a home cat attacking a new baby. If the cat starts showing signs of discomfort, your Vet will advise you about some pheromone or other treatments available for these cases.

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PETS IN SPAIN 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: 645 469 253 Saffron is a 7 year old Chihuahua rescued from a puppy farm. She has been in a foster home since as she was traumatised from being kept in a cage all her life. She is sterilised, vaccinated, weighs 2.2 kilos and good with other dogs. Saffron is still quite traumatised and needs a quiet home with no children.

Oreo is a 3 year old Chihuahua and was rescued from a puppy farm a couple of months ago. She has been in a foster home since as she was traumatised from being kept in a cage all her life. She is sterilised, vaccinated, weighs 2.2 kilos and good with other dogs. Because of her past a quiet home with no children is needed as she is still nervous around people.

Pickle, Lily and Jacinta have been adopted from our last edition. Talulah is a 4 year old Shih Tzu rescued from a puppy farm. When the vet took a look at her teeth it was discovered she had a broken jaw Apart from the jaw she is in great spirits and has settled in really well in her foster home. She is good with other dogs and has started to enjoy going out for walks.

Angus is round 6 years old and looking for a new family. He is chipped, vaccinated and neutered. Angus weighs approx 6 kilos, is good with other dogs and cats and would be best suited to a family with no young children as he can get quite grumpy when pestered.

To view more animals for adoption visit our website. If you would like to advertise an animal email: info@petsinspain.info

Tel: 645 469 253

The Charity is run by a team of volunteers CV-01-043388-A CIF No G-54353743

Tel: 600 845 420

K9 CLUB www.k9club.es

The K9 Club is a Registered Animal Welfare Organisation operating within the Alicante Province Lola is approximately 1 year old and appears to have some labrador looks and tendencies, she is very energetic and would be suitable with a young family or some one who wants company whilst jogging. Lola was recently found walking the streets of La Marina Urb trying to enter many properties looking for food and shelter. Lola is charming, warm and friendly. She loves to play and shows interest in other dogs. She walks well on a lead and is very clean. Vaccinated, wormed, micro chipped, passported and ready to go.

Gretal is a young female cat with a very gentle and shy disposition. She of course enjoys playing and is fine with other cats. She would make someone a very loving companion and looks forward to being homed permanently.

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CWW Electrical Services Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel: 617 872 405 *** Contact Clive or Wendy

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WHAT’S THAT IN THE CLOT? by Mark Etheridge

MONK PARAKEET

most commonly around the urbanisations bordering the northern Salt Lake, I have also seen one or two in the Parque Alfonso XIII in Guardamar, but so far I have had no sightings in the Gran Alacant area itself. They tend to form very sedentary populations, moving only short distances from their birth nests, but it can only be a matter of time before they spread here.

Last month, there was a posting in the online Gran Alacant forum (search for Gasbags on Google – it's a great place for local information!) from the redoubtable John Hannon, saying that he had seen a green parrot in Torrevieja. He asked what it was and he had attached a photograph of it which clearly showed it to be a Monk Parakeet. Now you may think that the last thing you expect to see in our corner of Spain is a wild parrot, but there are quite a few of them about. They are not native to the area, or indeed the whole of Europe, but they are very popular cage birds, and a mixture of careless owners and deliberate releases over the past forty years or so has led to the establishment of a thriving wild population of these birds in many areas. Indeed, Barcelona has such a large population of Monk Parakeets that they are said to outnumber the ubiquitous pigeon in the city parks. Within our region, they seem to be centred in Torrevieja (where my picture was taken),

86 86

So where do these birds actually come from? They are native to South American, mainly in the Argentina, Uruguay and Southern Brazil areas, where they are sometimes considered to be an agricultural pest – here in Spain they can decimate local tomato crops, but this is not such a great problem as they tend to congregate in urban areas. The Monk Parakeet is the only parrot which builds a stick nest as opposed to nesting in a hole in a tree or wall, and because they are social breeders, this can cause problems with damage to palm trees from the heavy weight of the communal nest. The Monk parakeet is also sometimes known as the Quaker Parrot in cage bird circles, and as Cotorra Argentina in Spanish There are also several other parrot species which have set up feral populations in Spain, including the Rose-ringed or Ringnecked Parakeet which will be familiar to UK visitors from the London area, and can sometimes be seen in Alicante city; the Senegal Parrot has occurred in Murcia, and here in Gran Alacant I have seen free-flying Peach-faced Lovebirds, but the latter are most likely to have been local escapees which have not managed to adapt to the wild. The Monk Parakeet is a much hardier bird, hence its success in colonising our area of Spain. You can see more photographs of birds from our area by visiting www.marketheridge.smugmug.com See you next month.

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FERAL FRIENDS OF GRAN ALACANT & NEARBY AREAS T: 655 474 146 feralfriends.ga@gmail.com

WE DON’T HAVE A CATTERY, our work is in the streets, fields, roads ... Colonies like these ones keep on growing over the years due to lack of sterilization programs & The several Fostered cats for life because they were not adopted, some are ill and need life-time medication and Veterinary treatments.

GARAGE SALE

FOOD, LITTER, BLEACH & COPPER COINS DONATIONS COULD BE BROUGHT THIS DAY.

27TH OF MAY IN GRAN ALACANT

A one day Event we attend/help:

27TH MAY 2018 - FROM 10,00 TO 14,00 HRS.

Address: Avenida Finlandia, Bloque 40, lower flat no. 13-1. Lots and lots of good quality Stuff from a Villa Clearance (all donated to raise funds to continue our animal help) Kitchen and Dining items (some electric goods) lamps,pictures, decoration items. Prices from 0,50 cts. See picture, it´s the corner house, opposite the back part of Mercadona´s parking & opposite Fosters Holywood. Foster Homes & Volunteers Needed. Litter, food & material accepted. (BEST foods Brekkies or from Aldi’s and LIDL’s). Facebook for seniors To others of my generation who still do not and cannot comprehend why Facebook even exists, maybe try the following, like I'm doing. Here's what I'm doing to gain better understanding: I am trying to make new friends without using Facebook, but while applying the same principles. Every day I walk down the street and tell passers-by what I have eaten, how I feel at the moment, what I have done the night before, what I will do later, and with whom. I give them pictures of my family, my dead dog, and of me gardening, taking things apart in the garage, or fixing things, watering the lawn, standing in front of landmarks, driving around town, having lunch, and doing what anybody and everybody does every day. I also listen to their conversations, then give them the "THUMBS UP" and tell them I like them. And it works! I already have four people following me: Two police officers, a private investigator, and a psychiatrist!!! READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

WORDSEARCH WORDSEARCH: EMOTIONS - EMOCIONES in English or Spanish

Geoff’s

1. How many innings per side are there in a game of baseball? 2. On which USA Mountain are the Faces of Four US Presidents Carved? 3. What name was given to the Ancient Textile Record of the Battle of Hastings? 4. Who were the two Major star in the Film 'Bridget Jones' Diary? 5. Which two Latin American countries don’t share a border with Brazil?

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SUDOKU Difficulty Rating: EASY 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.

5 9 7 3

4 8 7

1 1 5

6 2

8 3

4 7

9 3

Difficulty Rating: MEDIUM

5 1 8 6

1 5

4 9

2 9

7 6

7 2 8

1 9

7 3

5 7

8 4

6 8

1 5

QUIZ ANSWER: 1.9 2. MOUNT RUSHMORE 3. BAYEUX TAPESTRY 4. HUGH GRANT / RENE ZELLWEGGER (ACCEPT COLIN FIRTH) 5. ECUADOR AND CHILE

3 6 8

Difficulty Rating: HARD

6 4

9 7

9 9

5 5

5 4

9 2

For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk

DOODLE AREA

6 7

9 7 8

9 5

1 8

ANSWERS ON NEXT PAGE

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Find places of interest, and the locaton of all of our advertisers on Gran Alacant.

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1. CARABASSI CENTRE • ALEXANDRIA • AQUARIUS • GRAN ALACANT PROPERTIES • SHOOTERS • BROTHERS • MAYKA’S KITCHEN • SAKERMAKER

2. PLAZA MAYOR • VET GA EXOTICS • AZAFRAN INDIAN • THE PUB • THE BELFRY • PATAGONIA • DARBYS • LOUNGED

3. COMMERCIAL CENTRE

• EURONICS ELECTRICAL • HOMEFINDERS • BRICO HOUSE • OP GROUP SPAIN • E-STUDIO • GET FRESH • GLAROS

Church

Dog Park

Playpark

Dialprix

GA Farmacia

Mercadona

New Market

Supermarket QUIZ ANSWER: 1.9 2. MOUNT RUSHMORE 3. BAYEUX TAPESTRY 4. HUGH GRANT / RENE ZELLWEGGER (ACCEPT COLIN FIRTH) 5. ECUADOR AND CHILE

Sports Centre

School

ECO Rubbish

Taxi Rank

Police Station

SUDOKU SOLUTIONS from previous page 5 9 2 7 3 1 8 4 6

4 8 7 9 2 6 1 5 3

3 6 1 8 4 5 7 2 9

7 2 3 1 5 9 6 8 4

8 4 5 6 7 2 9 3 1

6 1 9 4 8 3 5 7 2

2 3 6 5 1 8 4 9 7

1 5 4 2 9 7 3 6 8

9 7 8 3 6 4 2 1 5

4 8 7 6 9 1 2 3 5

9 3 2 5 4 8 1 6 7

1 6 5 2 3 7 8 4 9

5 1 9 4 7 6 3 8 2

3 7 6 8 2 5 4 9 1

8 2 4 3 1 9 5 7 6

2 5 8 7 6 3 9 1 4

7 9 3 1 5 4 6 2 8

6 4 1 9 8 2 7 5 3

4 6 8 9 7 2 1 3 5

7 9 5 3 6 1

1 3 2 5 8 4 8 6 4 7 2 9

5 4 9 2 1 6 7 8 3

8 1 6 7 9 3 2 5 4

2 7 3 8 4 5

6 8 4 1 3 9

3 2 1 6 5 7

9 5 7 4 2 8

9 5 4 3 6 2 9 1 1 7 8 6

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To get your business on our map call ENGLISH : 966 699 167 / ESPANOL: 676 74 19 83

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TAXI SANTA POLA & GRAN ALACANT Tel: 965 41 25 25 24h service - English spoken Accept card payment (VISA, etc)

4. SIERRA MAR • PATAGONIA No.2 • LA PALETTA • ZEST

5. ESCANDINAVIA

• 5A CHIROPODY & PHYSIO

e c

• 5B GA SERVICES • 5B VICTORIA • 5B HEMINGWAY • 5C GABY HAIRDRESSING • 5C BAR SIOUX • 5C GA TV • 5C TELECABLE

a. DENTIMAR c. LA CESTA e. FRAGOLA Y CIOCCOLATO

6. SANTARA LIFE RESORT • GA INSURANCES • PILATE STUDIO

• • • •

Medical Centre GA Councillor Municipal Offices Library

GA Advertiser Top Up Delivery Point GRAN ALACANT PROPERTIES - QUICKSAVE - EURONICS - GA SERVICES

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Aquagest 24hr..(water co.) 902 250 170 Aeropuerto 966 919 000 Ayuntamiento-GA 966 697 749 Bus Station 965 130 700 Train Station 902 240 202 Bomberos (Fire) 085 Biblioteca (Library) 966 692 773 Butano gas 966 672 222 Emergency 112 Guardia Civil 062 Guardia Civil 965 411 290 Iberdrola (electric co.) 901 202 020

Library GA 966 697 110 Local Police 092 Local Police 965 411 103 Medical Health Service 966 699 081 National Police 091 Red Cross (Cruz Roja) 965 416 936 Red Cross emergencies 112 Rubbish collection 966 693 955 Suma 965 292 000 Taxi sited at LIDL 96 541 11 11 Telefonica 1004

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GRAN ALACANT BUS & TRAIN TIMETABLES

GRAN ALACANT TOURIST TRAIN TIMETABLE

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TOURIST TRAIN STOPS

FROM 01/APRIL TO 31/MAY MONDAY TILL SATURDAY 10:00H TO 14:00H AND FROM 16:00H TO 20:00H SUNDAYS: 11:00H TO 14:00H

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